The Bahrain Chamber (BCCI) has announced the appointment of Isa Murad as the director of its newly established small and medium enterprises (SMEs) department.
The move, announced by BCCI chief executive officer Atef Al Khaja, is part of a strategic shift to enhance institutional work mechanisms and better address the needs of the private sector in the upcoming phase.
Mr Al Khaja stated that the creation of the dedicated department follows directives from the Chamber’s board of directors during its 31st session.
He emphasised that supporting SME owners is a top priority, as they represent the majority of Bahrain’s private sector and serve as vital engines for national economic growth.
BCCI chairman Nabeel Khalid Kanoo has issued instructions to provide full institutional support to the department to ensure it meets its strategic objectives.
Mr Al Khaja explained that the department will act as a specialised platform to handle inquiries, complaints, and feedback from members, liaising directly with official government entities to propose systematic and swift solutions to sector-wide challenges.
To facilitate this, the department will use accredited liaison officers to maintain direct communication channels with various ministries and government bodies.
This integration is expected to expedite the resolution of obstacles faced by business owners.
The department’s mandate extends beyond administrative support. Mr Al Khaja noted that officials will conduct field visits to commercial markets and coordinate closely with sectoral committees to monitor challenges on the ground.
“The department will also be responsible for submitting high-quality development proposals, providing necessary consultations, and launching initiatives to bolster the competitiveness and sustainability of SMEs,” Mr Al Khaja added.