Complicated business regulations stifle the growth of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) which have high potential for creating jobs especially in the countryside. MSEs which fail to join the formal sector have limited access to business credit and financing. Likewise, their employees are unable to avail social protection and benefits. Addressing the concerns of MSEs becomes more pressing in the light of heightened competition due to the economic integration among Southeast Asia member-states (i.e. ASEAN Economic Community).