Malaysian traders seek wider market access for local products from elected officials

Small business owners are calling on newly elected state assembly members to champion wider market access for local products, enabling them to expand and penetrate markets beyond their immediate areas. They emphasize the need for continuous support, not just in financial aid, but also in crucial areas like digital marketing, product certification, and opportunities to introduce their goods to a larger customer base.

Ahmad Taufiq Nordin, 32, who produces Mi Siput Parit Karjo, highlighted the persistent challenges faced by small businesses like his. He noted a significant over-reliance on physical sales, with online channels contributing only about 10 percent of his revenue due to a lack of digital marketing knowledge. "For these products to go further, we need guidance on how to use online systems more effectively so that Johor products can be known more widely," Nordin stated.

He believes that assistance from elected officials in providing digital training and mentoring small entrepreneurs in modern marketing techniques could unlock new market opportunities. Nordin's business has experienced fluctuating income, with profits once dropping as low as RM7 in a single month, severely hindering business development. This reliance on physical sales and uncertain income continues to plague his venture.

Salbiah Sahar, 65, a producer of Rempeyek Warisan Batu Pahat, stressed the importance of giving traditional local products more exposure to ensure their survival. Despite her age limiting her active involvement, customer demand for products made since 2012 shows potential for growth. She hopes future assembly members will help small producers secure broader marketing opportunities, recognizing the economic value and job creation potential of local goods. Another entrepreneur, identified only as Alif Mohd. Ali, 26, sees increased online sales as a primary hope, given the limitations of the physical market. He believes guidance on digital content, social media sales, and marketing strategies can significantly boost income and promote local products.

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For these products to go further, we need guidance on how to use online systems more effectively so that Johor products can be known more widely.