BUTTERWORTH: The Penang Bumiputra Petty Traders Association is appealing to state Umno leaders not to politicise the state government’s intention to practice an open tender policy for contracts and projects.

Its chairman Alif Abdul Mutalib Kader, 64, (pic)said such a policy would benefit all races, including the Malays.

“Through an open tender policy, we believe there will be equal benefits for all businessmen to have a share in the state’s economic pie.

“The state Umno leaders should think twice before demonstrating in the streets. They should give the new state government a chance to be transparent and fair in its administration,” said Alif who came to The Star’s office in Prai yesterday to air the association’s views.

He hoped the state government would upgrade public food courts and trading sites.

“With an open tender policy, we also hope there will be equal opportunities for all races to secure trading lots at markets, hawker centres and night markets,” he said.

Alif also hoped the state could provide soft loans to the association’s members to further expand their businesses.

“With the rising costs of living, many Malays have now turned toward petty trading to source for additional income,” he said.