KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has set a goal to train 30,000 micro-entrepreneurs, university students, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training students through the eUsahawan programme this year, with a sales target of RM35mil.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo (pic) stated that since its establishment in 2015, the programme has already provided training to 563,543 entrepreneurs across the country, resulting in accumulated sales exceeding RM1.24bil.
“The food and beverage sector accounts for 40% of the accumulated sales, followed by beauty and health at 25%, and lifestyle and fashion at 15%,” he said during the opening of the eUsahawan and Gig Fest 2024, organized by MDEC at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center on Tuesday (Feb 20)
He also mentioned that under the eUsahawan programme, the eUsahawan Hub has been introduced to address challenges faced by small and medium enterprises that lack access to knowledge and guidance to develop their business.
Moreover, 100 new hubs will be established this year at strategic locations like universities and community centers to expose local entrepreneurs to digital marketing techniques.
Meanwhile, with regards to the Global Online Workforce (Glow) programme, Gobind stated that MDEC aims to train 5,000 university students, equipping them with digital skills to obtain high-value job opportunities in the regional gig economy platform.
He also mentioned that MDEC had assisted 105,390 participants under the programme and generated income of up to RM282.76mil until the end of last year.
Implemented in 2016, Glow focuses on enhancing the skills and knowledge of individuals affected by retrenchment, salary cuts, and unemployed graduates to become successful digital freelancers on both local and international platforms.
In addition, Gobind emphasized the importance of inclusive growth and advancement of Malaysia’s digital economy in line with the government’s efforts to enhance the well-being of individuals and businesses to ensure the country’s economic resilience.
He stressed that talent development for entrepreneurs and digital freelancers through a digital-first approach should be a priority. – Bernama
