Rising Fuel Prices and Operating Costs: Planworth Allocates RM1 Billion in Financing to Support Malaysian Businesses
14 April 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, 14 April 2026 – Amid an increasingly challenging economic landscape marked by rising operating costs and fuel prices, Planworth Global Factoring Sdn. Bhd. has announced the allocation of RM1 billion in financing facilities this year to support Malaysia’s micro, small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
The initiative comes at a critical time as many entrepreneurs and contractors continue to face cash flow challenges due to escalating raw material costs, higher logistics expenses, and ongoing market uncertainties.
Planworth’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Andy Kuek, said the current economic environment calls for faster, more flexible financing solutions to help businesses remain resilient. “As operating costs continue to rise, driven by higher fuel prices and supply chain challenges, many businesses are experiencing increasing financial pressure,” he said.
“The issue is not the lack of projects, but rather constrained cash flow. Without timely financial support, project implementation and overall business operations may be significantly affected.”
Datuk Andy Kuek made these remarks during the Planworth Hari Raya Aidilfitri Celebration 2026, which was attended by the Deputy Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, and the Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP), Datuk Mohamad
Alamin.
He added that the role of financing institutions has become increasingly important in ensuring that business projects continue without disruption while enabling companies to sustain their operations.
“At Planworth, we go beyond providing financing. We serve as a strategic financing partner, supporting businesses from the tender stage through to successful project completion,” he said.
“Our commitment remains stronger than ever. Last year, we allocated RM700 million in financing facilities. This year, we have increased that amount to RM1 billion, which is expected to benefit up to 1,000 companies.”
To date, Planworth has supported thousands of Malaysian businesses by providing financing worth billions of ringgit across a wide range of industries nationwide.
Datuk Andy also emphasised that strong collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential to ensuring Malaysia’s economic sustainability.
“In today’s uncertain economic environment, businesses cannot succeed in isolation. Stronger collaboration between the Government and the private sector is crucial to support the nation’s business ecosystem,” he said.
“While the Government plays an important role in formulating policies and creating business opportunities, the private sector must have the financial capacity to execute and accelerate projects on the ground.”
“Ultimately, timely and reliable access to financing can determine whether a business is able to sustain its operations and grow, directly contributing to the country’s economic development.”
Datuk Andy further reaffirmed Planworth’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), highlighting the company’s ongoing collaborations with the Persatuan Kontraktor Melayu Malaysia (PKMM) and the Department of Social Welfare (JKM) in supporting underprivileged
communities.
“Even during challenging economic times, our responsibility to the community remains a priority,” he added.
You can read the full media press release below:
