SME Corp Malaysia Allocates RM1.5 Million to Drive High-Growth SME Leadership Through Next Level CEO Programme
SME Corp. Malaysia has allocated RM1.5 million under its Next Level CEO Programme to support senior management of high-growth, high-value Malaysian SMEs in scaling their businesses and increasing their contribution to the national economy.
About the role
The Next Level CEO Programme aims to equip 90 CEOs, managing directors, and founders of high-growth, high-value Malaysian SMEs with strategic leadership skills to drive organisational transformation, improve productivity, and strengthen business competitiveness. This initiative is part of the Strategic Industry and High-Performing SME Enhancement Programme (PRESTIGE) 2.0.
Responsibilities
- Develop strategic knowledge and leadership skills to scale businesses.
- Drive organisational transformation and improve productivity.
- Strengthen business competitiveness through innovative thinking and a global perspective.
- Participate in training sessions, tailored coaching, mentoring, and exposure to industry best practices.
- Undergo the SME Competitiveness Rating for Enhancement (SCORE) assessment.
Implementation Partners
The programme is delivered by three implementation partners responsible for course modules, training, coaching, and impact monitoring:
- Heriot-Watt University Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.
- ASB Management Sdn. Bhd. (launching mid-August 2026).
- Efficient Frontier Consulting Sdn. Bhd. (launching September 2026).
Programme Goals
- Produce industry leaders capable of driving business growth and improving productivity.
- Support the scaling of high-growth, high-value SMEs to compete globally.
- Enhance leadership capacity and strategic capabilities of SME leaders.
- Contribute to Malaysia’s economic development through stronger SMEs.
For enquiries, contact nextlevelceo@smecorp.gov.my or visit SME Corp. Malaysia’s official website and social media channels.