Tekun Provides The Lifeline For Indian Entrepreneurs

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama) -- M.Jayaseelan had been working as a goldsmith at a Chinese company since 1989, and his dream of venturing on his own had been hindered because of the lack of capital.

Yet all that changed four months ago when he sought a loan from the National Entrepreneur Group Economic Fund (Tekun Nasional) to purchase new jewellery making tools and equipment to set off on his own.

"I saw an advertisement of the Special Secretariat for the Empowerment of Indian Entrepreneurs (SEED). I applied through the Indian Entrepreneur Development Scheme (SPUMI) and my loan was approved," said the proud owner of Kamalam Gems and Jewels to Bernama.

Jayaseelan, like the thousands of Indians in the country face an uphill task in starting or expanding business as the avenues to raise capital is extremely limited.

This is where Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak stepped in with funds RM180 million, dedicated to Indian traders and businessmen through various organisations.