SME Loans in Malaysia 2026
Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) loans are the backbone of business financing in Malaysia, helping over 1 million SMEs fund their operations, expansion, and growth. In 2026, Malaysian banks offer SME loans from RM50,000 to RM5 million with interest rates typically ranging from 4% to 8% per annum.
What is an SME Loan?
An SME loan is a type of business financing specifically designed for small and medium enterprises. Unlike personal loans, SME loans are evaluated based on your business performance, not just personal credit history.
Key characteristics of SME loans:
- Higher amounts than personal loans (up to RM5 million from most banks)
- Longer tenure options (up to 7 years)
- Business-focused assessment - revenue, cash flow, business history
- Various purposes - working capital, equipment, expansion, refinancing
Pro Tip
SME loans typically offer lower interest rates than unsecured personal loans because they're secured against business assets or guaranteed by government schemes.
SME Definition in Malaysia
To qualify as an SME in Malaysia, your business must meet these criteria:
| Category | Manufacturing | Services & Other |
|---|---|---|
| Micro | Sales < RM300k OR employees < 5 | Sales < RM300k OR employees < 5 |
| Small | Sales RM300k-RM15m OR employees 5-75 | Sales RM300k-RM3m OR employees 5-30 |
| Medium | Sales RM15m-RM50m OR employees 75-200 | Sales RM3m-RM20m OR employees 30-75 |
Eligibility Requirements
Basic SME Loan Requirements
- Business registered with SSM (minimum 1-2 years operating)
- Malaysian majority ownership (51%+)
- Minimum monthly revenue of RM30,000-RM50,000
- Positive cash flow and profitability
- No bankruptcy or legal issues
- Valid business licenses and permits
For the complete eligibility checklist and required documents, see our SME Loan Requirements Guide.
Interest Rates Comparison 2026
| Bank | Loan Amount | Interest Rate | Tenure |
|---|---|---|---|
Maybank Popular | RM 50,000 - RM 5,000,000 | 4.5% - 8% p.a. | 1-7 years |
CIMB Popular | RM 50,000 - RM 3,000,000 | 5% - 9% p.a. | 1-7 years |
RHB Popular | RM 30,000 - RM 2,000,000 | 5.5% - 10% p.a. | 1-5 years |
Public Bank Popular | RM 50,000 - RM 5,000,000 | 4.8% - 8.5% p.a. | 1-7 years |
* Rates are indicative and subject to bank approval. Contact us for actual rates.
Flat vs Reducing Rate
Some banks quote flat rates while others use reducing balance. A 5% flat rate equals approximately 9-10% effective rate. Always compare effective rates (EIR) for accurate comparison.
Types of SME Loans
1. Term Loans
Traditional business loans with fixed monthly repayments over 1-7 years. Best for:
- Equipment purchase
- Business expansion
- Property renovation
2. Working Capital Loans
Short-term financing for daily operations:
- Inventory purchase
- Payroll funding
- Bridging cash flow gaps
3. Trade Financing
For import/export businesses:
- Letters of Credit (LC)
- Trust Receipts
- Export financing
4. Government-Backed Loans
Lower rates with government guarantee:
- GGSM2 (up to 80% guarantee)
- SMERF (Bank Negara special funds)
- TEKUN/PUNB microfinancing
Documents Required
Documents for SME Loan Application
- SSM documents (Form 9, 24, 44, 49)
- Latest 6-12 months bank statements
- Latest 2-3 years audited accounts or management accounts
- Company profile and business plan
- IC copies of directors and shareholders
- Proof of business address
- Latest EPF/SOCSO statements
- Existing loan statements (if refinancing)
How to Apply
- Assess your needs - Determine loan amount and purpose
- Check eligibility - Review bank requirements
- Prepare documents - Gather all required paperwork
- Compare options - Get quotes from multiple banks
- Submit application - Apply to chosen bank(s)
- Credit assessment - Bank evaluates your application (1-2 weeks)
- Approval & disbursement - Sign agreement and receive funds
Flat Rate: Interest calculated on original principal throughout. Higher effective rate.
Monthly Payment
RM 1,933
Total Interest
RM 15,997
Total Payment
RM 115,997
Free consultation, no obligation
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer: Interest rates, loan amounts, and eligibility requirements shown are indicative and subject to change. Contact the respective bank or institution directly for the latest rates and terms. Last reviewed: January 2026.
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