This month, Baiduri Bank marked a key milestone with the first anniversary of Baiduri Enterprise Hub. This occasion was celebrated by a diverse group of local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) representing sectors as varied as creative arts, food and beverages, professional services, technology, and retail.
Baiduri Enterprise Hub has quickly established itself as a key player in Brunei’s entrepreneurial landscape. Since its inception, the Hub has been dedicated to fostering the growth and development of MSMEs by providing a comprehensive range of facilities within a modern co-working space. These include private pods, meeting rooms, event spaces, and an expansive networking area aptly named “Horizon.” Entrepreneurs can also benefit from free WiFi, audio-visual equipment, and hot-desking options designed to support both budding startups and established businesses looking to scale up.
A vision for empowering Brunei’s businesses
Launched in August 2023, Baiduri Enterprise Hub was created with a clear vision: to empower Brunei’s MSMEs by providing them with the resources, guidance, and community needed to thrive. The Hub was designed as a one-stop centre to foster business growth, offering not only physical workspace but also a nurturing environment where entrepreneurs could access specialised services, events and mentorship opportunities. Since its inception, the Hub has been a catalyst for innovation and collaboration, helping to elevate the MSME sector in Brunei.
Over the past year, the Hub has transformed into a vibrant venue where entrepreneurs gather not only to work but to upskill, collaborate, and drive innovation. It has become a vital space where ideas flourish, connections are made, and growth is achieved.
Central to the success of the Baiduri Enterprise Hub are the strategic partnerships forged with key ecosystem partners. Held in partnership with Darussalam Enterprise (DARe), the Baiduri MSME Empowerment Series provides workshops and one-to-one clinics to build the skills and capacity of entrepreneurs. The Baiduri Power Coffee sessions jointly organised with the Young Entrepreneurs Association Brunei (YEAB) facilitate peer support and industry collaboration, while our mentoring sessions with Shell LiveWIRE offer expert guidance to help businesses secure financing and achieve sustainable growth.
Through these collaborations, the Hub offers holistic support to MSMEs and foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the entrepreneurial community.
The impact of the Baiduri Enterprise Hub is perhaps best reflected in the experiences of its members. For instance, Billy Lim Jin Hoe, founder of Si Manja Pet Grooming Spa, shared, “Baiduri Enterprise Hub has been instrumental in our development, providing invaluable resources and networking opportunities that have helped us grow.”
Similarly, Bash Harry, owner of The Harry Knit, noted, “Being part of the Baiduri Enterprise Hub has been a game-changer. The nurturing ecosystem and Baiduri Bank’s tailored financial solutions have empowered us to transform our passion for knitting into a thriving business.”
These success stories highlight the role of Baiduri Enterprise Hub in empowering local entrepreneurs to turn their visions into reality. Head of Business Banking at Baiduri Bank, Mohammad Isa Liew Mohd Amin Liew, expressed his pride in the Hub’s achievements: “When we first opened our doors, we started with just a handful of members. Today, we have grown to over 100 MSMEs, each contributing to a dynamic and supportive ecosystem. This growth is a testament to the resilience and innovation of our members and reflects our unwavering commitment to empowering local businesses.”
As Baiduri Bank looks to the future, the commitment to Brunei’s MSMEs remains steadfast. The Bank’s Business Banking Unit continues to offer a range of tailored products and services, including specialised MSME accounts, invoice financing, and business advisory services. These offerings are designed to support MSMEs at every stage of their journey, from start-up to expansion, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to thrive.
Manuel Bulens, Deputy CEO, Consumer Banking, Baiduri Bank emphasised the significant potential within Brunei’s MSME sector, stating, “Baiduri Bank is committed to playing an integral role in unlocking this potential. The Baiduri Enterprise Hub will continue to adapt to the changing needs of our business community, driving growth and innovation for years to come.”
Celebrating three decades of excellence
As Baiduri Bank commemorates its 30th Anniversary, the achievements of the Baiduri Enterprise Hub reflect the bank’s long-standing dedication to Brunei’s business community. Over the past three decades, Baiduri Bank has played a vital role in supporting the nation’s economic development, offering financial solutions that evolve with the needs of its customers. Continuing this tradition, Baiduri Bank remains committed to empowering local businesses, especially within the MSME sector. The Baiduri Enterprise Hub embodies this ongoing mission, driving economic growth and fostering innovation across Brunei.
For more information or to explore the opportunities available at the Baiduri Enterprise Hub, MSMEs are encouraged to reach out to Baiduri Bank’s Business Banking Unit by calling 8196301 / 8163963 during office hours or by emailing enterprisehub@baiduri.com.
