SUBANG JAYA, Sept 2 — This year’s winning SAY Aspire entrepreneurs all have potential to grow, including in the AI services segment, said state executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi.
He added that the winners not only received accreditation but have been given the opportunity to explore global markets with incentives in the form of development programmes and export access.
“This is part of the state government’s efforts through SAY (Selangor Youth Community) to centre entrepreneurs with potential, and we will help them from a training aspect and give them space and exposure on how to market or export their products,” he said.
Najwan added that the success of previous participants shows the programme can help entrepreneurs grow to new heights, not just chase victory in contests.
“This is among the success stories from participants who received opportunities through SAY programmes, not just named winners but also given ample room to grow to greater heights,” he said.
SAY Aspire is an entrepreneurship development programme for youth with the potential to bring their products and services to the global market through guidance courses and export strategy training programmes.
Held since 2017, SAY Aspire is open to companies in Selangor owned by directors aged between 18 and 40 who are not bankrupt or blacklisted.
Meanwhile, her experience performing the haj and umrah drove RHJ Tijarah Sdn Bhd managing director Siti Hajar Harun to develop skincare products specifically for pilgrims.
She was declared winner of SAY Aspire at a ceremony held at Sunway Resort Hotel here today.
She said the products were developed based on how her skin became dry and sunburnt during her time in the holy land.
“I started this business based on my experience performing the umrah and haj. The products on the market (at the time) made my skin dry and burnt, not protecting my skin.
“Research to get the right formulation took nearly two years… We went back to the holy land and tried it for ourselves to look at skin compatibility,” she said.
Her victory made her eligible for an award and trophy, which were presented by Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah at the SAY Aspire ceremony here today.
His Highness also presented awards to runners-up Hokido Shop Enterprise, Dataverse Sdn Bhd, Nutrivera Manufacturing Sdn Bhd, and Go Advanced Sdn Bhd.
