BUTTERWORTH: More than 44,000 people visited the National Hawkers and Small Traders Carnival 2024 (HPPK2024) here last weekend, a major boost in exposure for over 360 participants from micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The three-day carnival at the PICCA Convention Centre was organised by the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry to give MSMEs a platform to market their products and grow their business networks.

Muhamad Ezrin Ishak, 42, a flour manufacturer from Permatang Pauh specialising in 'roti canai' mix, praised the event as a great marketing platform for MSMEs.

Ezrin started his business at home before the Covid-19 pandemic. He produces 19,000 packs of 'roti canai' mix daily for customers across the northern region.

He said the carnival allowed him to promote his products and connect with potential business partners.

"This programme supports entrepreneurs. It helps us build networks, which is great because some entrepreneurs need what we offer and we need their services, too.

"It's mutually beneficial. I'm very grateful for this initiative," he said at his booth.

He said the government provided a lot of financial aid and guidance for MSMEs and encouraged them to participate.

"The assistance from the government has been very helpful. I'm grateful for the agencies that support us. When I started my business at home, they came to see our progress. Now, they're growing with us."

Cosmetics entrepreneur Norhaslina Mohd Pisol, 37, said she has participated in HPPK since 2022.

She said the carnival helped her Bertam-based business establish a nationwide network.

"Thanks to government programmes, my business has grown significantly in a short time, especially with the marketing courses."

Norhaslina obtained Health Ministry and halal certifications with government assistance.

"We can now create high-quality products at affordable prices for everyone."

Nor Jahimah Jaafar, 56, a trader from Kuala Lumpur dealing in Sunnah-based products, urged MSMEs to engage with business groups like the Coalition of Malay Hawkers and Petty Traders Associations of Malaysia to stay informed and sustain their ventures.

"When I first started, I had no knowledge. Joining business groups helped me learn and gain insights. Many need this support as well.

"Seize every opportunity from the ministry or government agencies. It doesn't matter which ministry, as support is available for many sectors, not just through the ministry. There are many avenues for aid."

Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said the carnival saw a record 44,000 visitors, surpassing the target of 30,000.

"HPPK2024 recorded total potential financing value of RM3.26 million for hawkers and small traders."

He said the carnival achieved RM520,000 in total sales, including from Madani Cooperative and Entrepreneur Sales, Anekarasa Madani Sales, Rahmah Sales, the One District One Industry programme and food trucks.

He highlighted the contributions of hawkers and small traders to the socio-economic development of the country.

"Amid economic progress, especially as the nation transitioned into the endemic phase, we cannot deny the role hawkers and small traders play at the state and national levels.

"To honour the contributions of hawkers and small traders to the economy, the government declares that Nov 18 every year is National Hawkers and Small Traders Day."

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/11/1130222/small-traders-grateful-aid-opportunities