18th September 2025 - 4 min read
For Malaysian small and medium enterprises (“SMEs”) and entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey, from start-ups taking their first steps to established businesses seeking to scale and expand abroad, the right platform for connection and collaboration is vital. SME Bank will host its premier signature programme, the SME Bank XCESS 2025, offering valuable opportunities for Malaysian SMEs to strengthen their networks, scale, and enter new markets.
This flagship annual event is scheduled to take place on 25 September 2025. It will be a hybrid event, held physically at the Royale Chulan Hotel with virtual access also available for participants who wish to join remotely.
First introduced in 2016, SME Bank XCESS has evolved into a flagship event dedicated to Malaysian SMEs, entrepreneurs and key business stakeholders. The 2025 edition will serve as a comprehensive platform that delivers transformative opportunities, access to financing solutions, structured capacity-building programmes, and dynamic networking sessions designed to drive meaningful engagement and sustainable growth.
SME Bank XCESS 2025 is built to strengthen Malaysia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The event helps businesses spark innovation, build capacity and scale with resilience. Entrepreneurs will gain access to tools, insights and connections that can accelerate growth and competitiveness.
A key highlight is global market access. Through business matching sessions, Malaysian SMEs connect directly with international buyers. The results are proven. In 2024, the programme generated RM177.87 million in potential sales through 252 meetings with 24 global buyers. For 2025, more than 180 business meetings are expected.
Anchored to the Government’s MADANI Economic Framework, the Twelfth Malaysia Plan and the National Entrepreneurship Policy, SME Bank XCESS 2025 reflects Malaysia’s economic ambitions. As a leading Development Financial Institution and a proud member of the Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad Group, SME Bank goes beyond financing to deliver knowledge, networks and support systems that transform vision into achievement.
This mandate comes alive through SME Bank XCESS 2025, where national policies take human form and entrepreneurs shape Malaysia’s next chapter of success.
Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or an established business owner seeking to elevate or diversify your business, XCESS 2025 opens the door to boundless possibilities. It is a platform where ideas meet opportunities and where vision can be transformed into achievement.
The 2025 edition is expected to host nearly 500 SMEs and 20 leading international buyers from key ASEAN markets, creating a vibrant environment for collaboration and growth. In partnership with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (“MATRADE) and supported by the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (“MECD”), the 2025 edition brings together the key players in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
These include anchor companies under the Vendor Capacity and Capability Development Programme (“PPKV”), as well as anchor companies from SME Bank’s Umbrella Programme. They will be complemented by government-linked companies and agencies, multinational corporations, alternative financing providers such as peer-to-peer platforms and venture capital firms, together with renowned homegrown entrepreneurs.
Among the highlights is PETRONAS Lubricants Marketing (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, presenting prospects to establish high-end motor and auto workshops. Equally inspiring is Bateriku (M) Sdn Bhd, a homegrown success story that has become Malaysia’s trusted name for motorcycle and car batteries as well as roadside assistance, delivering swift online emergency services through the nation’s widest network. Adding to this, CelcomDigi Berhad offers opportunities for entrepreneurs to become part of its vendor and service ecosystem, creating exposure and collaboration with one of Malaysia’s leading telecommunications companies.
The event also features a distinguished line-up of renowned brands and companies, including:
The programme is structured to maximise value for attendees. The main components include:
SME Bank organises the programme through close collaboration with its strategic partners to ensure it delivers practical benefits and aligns with the needs of modern businesses. Whether you are seeking funding, exploring export markets, or looking to build strategic partnerships, this event is structured to support your objectives.
For more information and to register your interest, businesses are encouraged to visit https://go.smebank.com.my/XCESSRinggitPlus and social media channels for the latest updates.
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