Wednesday July 1, 2009

Ong: New measures mark exciting mindset change

PETALING JAYA: The liberalisation measures announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak is a major step forward towards building a “1Malaysia that is capable of becoming a true global player”, MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat said.

He said the measures would break new ground and open windows of opportunities for businesses in and outside Malaysia.

“It is aimed at making investing in the country so much more attractive,” he said in his blog yesterday.

Ong said these measures showed Malaysia’s readiness to compete on a more level playing field, based on meritocracy.

“The measures represent the beginning of a mindset change that is bound to excite investors, stimulate the economy and inspire the people to be more competitive,” he said.

Ong said he was inspired by the strong leadership shown by Najib.

“Change is never easy and Najib has displayed with strength and clarity his political will to initiate effective change,” he said.

Meanwhile, several Malay non-governmental organisations have backed the liberalisation moves.

Muslim Consumer Association of Malaysia secretary-general Datuk Dr Maamor Osman described the reform measures as proactive to attract foreign investors.

“As the proverb goes, if we want to fly a kite, we have to go against the wind. We are aware that the capability of local investors to develop the country’s economy is limited. “

He said the reform measures would also help produce genuine bumiputra entrepreneurs.

“We don’t want sleeping partners or brokers. I hope there will be genuine bumiputra and non-bumiputra entrepreneurs to partner with foreign entrepreneurs,” he said.

Persatuan Pribumi Perkasa (Perkasa) deputy president Datuk Fuad Hassan said bumiputras should not feel threatened by the announcement.

“Bumiputras should wake up and look at themselves to see how they can work with non-bumiputras to compete in the world market. Capable bumiputra entrepreneurs can form joint ventures with the Chinese to compete with players in big markets like China and India,” he said.

However, he said the Government should not forget that bumiputras still required help in terms of training, skills, capital and exposure to compete in the global market.

Malaysian Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Datuk Kenneth Eswaran said the move would stimulate the growth and development of the country.

Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he welcomed Najib’s announcement on reform efforts that would boost investment into the country.

More News

News Poll

Latest Jobs from Star-Jobs

Latest from StarProperty