BISA 2026: MSMEs hailed as pillars of national growth

PETALING JAYA -  Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) which form the backbone of the national economy were celebrated at the Bisnes Sinar Harian Awards (BISA) 2026, a national business recognition platform organised by Sinar Harian under Karangkraf.

With over 20 years of experience in the local media industry, Sinar Harian continues to serve as a trusted journalism platform, consistently highlighting the stories of the people, including the struggles and contributions of MSME entrepreneurs.

Held in the presence of ministers and industry players, BISA 2026 is not merely an awards ceremony but a national initiative to recognise the resilience, integrity and significant contributions of local entrepreneurs to the economy, job creation and community development.

MSMEs contribute more than 35 per cent to Malaysia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provide employment to millions, yet their stories of perseverance are often underrepresented.

Karangkraf chairman Firdaus Hussamuddin said BISA was created to bridge this gap by placing real entrepreneurial stories at the centre of national discourse.

She said this approach aligns with Sinar Harian’s long-standing role in ensuring that the voices and economic realities of the people are given due space in mainstream coverage.

“BISA reflects the role of media as a catalyst for national development, not merely a channel of information. Karangkraf has journeyed alongside Malaysia for nearly five decades.

“As we approach our 50th anniversary, our commitment remains the same, to use our platform responsibly to build communities, elevate people’s voices and strengthen the national economy,” she said in her opening remarks at BISA 2026 held at Royale Chulan Damansara on Wednesday.

BISA 2026 honoured 31 entrepreneurs from various sectors and industries.

Firdaus added that the principle of responsible platform use is reflected in Sinar Harian’s evolution over two decades as a medium that not only reports news but also shapes public understanding and awareness.

“This credibility is reinforced through Sinar Harian’s rebranding as the ‘Suara Rakyat’, reaffirming its commitment to ethical journalism and representation of community voices.

“BISA 2026 also carries future aspirations, encouraging ethical entrepreneurship, cross-industry collaboration and sustainable growth in an increasingly challenging economic landscape,” she said.

She said since its introduction in 2023, BISA has grown into a trusted platform grounded in ethical journalism, professional industry evaluation and tangible socio-economic impact.

She added that each award recipient is selected through a rigorous screening process by Sinar Harian’s editorial leadership together with an independent panel of industry experts.

“As the Suara Rakyat, Sinar Harian sees BISA as a continuation of its role, not only to highlight entrepreneurial success as business achievements, but as meaningful contributions to society and the nation.

“As Karangkraf approaches its 50th anniversary, BISA stands as a manifestation of its ongoing commitment to nation-building, highlighting meaningful stories, recognising impactful businesses and ensuring entrepreneurship remains a driving force of Malaysia’s progress,” she said.