Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim launched the Paduri Madani Scheme in Ipoh on May 16 to empower women entrepreneurs, particularly those in the B40 income group, under Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) [1, 2, 3]. The scheme aims to reach 29,000 new women entrepreneurs across multiple ethnic and social groups, including Malay, Chinese and Indian women; Bumiputera women from Sabah and Sarawak; the Orang Asli; the Siamese community; and B40 women in urban and rural areas [1, 2, 3].
The programme is open to Malaysian women aged 18 and above with a household income not exceeding RM5,880 or a per capita income below RM1,470 [1, 2, 3]. It also accepts applicants who have been blacklisted or declared bankrupt, with no guarantor or collateral required, easing access for those often excluded from financing [1, 2, 3].
Financing under Paduri Madani is divided into economic and social categories. Economic categories (i-Paduri Mesra, i-Paduri Srikandi, i-Paduri Muda) offer loans ranging from RM3,000 to RM30,000. Social categories (i-Paduri Wibawa, i-Paduri Sejahtera, i-Paduri Bestari, i-Paduri Penyayang) provide loans up to RM15,000 [1, 2, 3].
Prime Minister Anwar highlighted the strong repayment discipline of women borrowers, noting AIM’s near-zero non-performing loan rate in 2025, especially compared to wealthier groups [1, 2]. “AIM encourages women to prove their ability to borrow and repay loans. Why? Because women are resilient, capable and possess strong values and character,” he said, adding that honoring loan agreements aligns with principles in the Quran [1]. Reflecting on the significance of the programme, Anwar remarked, "I am proud, we recently celebrated Women’s Day. Who are women? They are our mothers, our wives, daughters and sisters. When we understand this, we realise that there has not been a major programme specifically for women" [2].
The Paduri Madani Scheme’s launch on May 16 marks a major step to broaden financial inclusion and business opportunities for women from diverse backgrounds and income levels. At the event in Ipoh, the government confirmed the programme’s immediate rollout to eligible applicants, opening paths for women entrepreneurs throughout Malaysia to access support and loans.
