Kota Kinabalu: Deputy Chief Minister I cum Sabah Works and Utilities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam officiated the launch of the Business Community App, a platform developed to connect the business community while creating opportunities for knowledge-sharing, collaboration and market opportunities.
The launch was held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here.
In his speech, Joachim said the business world today faced various challenges, including cash flow management, product-market suitability, financial planning and the need to adapt businesses to developments in digital technology.
He said while an application could not solve all the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, building a strong business community could help them gain the knowledge, networks and opportunities they needed at the right time.
“A strong community can help entrepreneurs gain knowledge, build relationships and identify opportunities when they need them,” he said.
The Business Community App provides several facilities for its members, including a Business Profile Card to showcase their respective companies, products and services.
The platform also allows members to participate in masterclasses offered by Sabah Entrepreneurs Transformation (SET) and G & A Group to enhance their business knowledge and skills.
In addition, a Members Group section is provided for members to exchange views, promote their products and build relationships with potential customers and business partners.
Joachim said although the initiative began in Sabah, its potential was not limited to the State, as the platform was open to members from across Malaysia and overseas.
He said through the use of technology, an entrepreneur in Kota Kinabalu could potentially connect with a supplier in Kuala Lumpur, share experiences with entrepreneurs in Sarawak or explore business opportunities internationally.
He said the success of the platform would ultimately depend on the level of active participation from the business community itself.
As such, he encouraged members to use the platform to introduce their businesses, ask questions, share experiences and support one another.
“The relationships established through this application may eventually lead to a sale, a collaboration or an idea that helps a business grow,” he said.
Joachim also welcomed the vision of the Business Community App, which is built around four key elements – Connect, Learn, Collaborate and Grow.
He hoped the platform would help foster a stronger community of entrepreneurs and enable them to bring business opportunities and potential from Sabah to the global stage.
At the event, Joachim also expressed his appreciation and congratulations to SET, G & A Group and all parties involved in realising the development of the Business Community App.
Also present were Sabah Entrepreneurs Transformation founder and president and G & A Group founder and chief executive officer Datuk George Lim, together with business leaders, entrepreneurs and guests.
