More ‘bundle’ business a positive impact on Sabah’s economy — Ramlee

SEMPORNA: The growing number of traders undertaking the ‘bundle’ business in the state appear to have a positive impact on the economic well-being of the traders,the state and the people.

Assistant Finance Minister Datuk Ramlee Marhaban said the opposition appears to lack understanding of economic issues to conclude that the growing number of ‘bundle’ business is indicative of an economic downturn in Sabah.

Ramlee reckoned that the opposition is not able to see the efforts of state government in this matter. The state government, he said, is actually providing opportunities and encouraging people to get involved in business to generate more income.

He said the growing number of ‘bundle’ business is because there is demand from the people and it is a win-win situation for both traders and people.

“The high demand for items from the ‘bundle’ business by the people is not only because of its price, but the variety of branded items that can be bought at affordable price. This business also contribute to a lively money change of hands and a source of income for the traders,” he said.

Ramlee said this in response to Penampang member of parliament Darell Leiking during a question-and-answer session in Parliament when he questioned as to why Sabahans need to do the ‘bundle’ business, which in effect shows that Sabah’s economy is facing problems.

According to Ramlee, this kind of business does not only provide opportunities for entrepreneurship but also boost the economy activities. He said this kind of business, which is an outlet business, was also popular in other developed countries.

Meanwhile, Ramlee, who is also the State Umno deputy Information head, reckons that the State government is in good hands under the leadership of Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Aman, who is very good at managing the state economy.

Ramlee said the state government is always committed in ensuring that the state financial management is always on the right path.

He said the ability of the state government in managing the economy had been proven in many ways, including the growing numbers of business and reducing the poverty level in the state.

“This is their only way to show the failings of the state government when actually the growing numbers of bundle business is good for the economy.

“On what basis do they see the growing number of bundle business as indicative of problems in the Sabah economy? As I see it, the growing activities are due to the demand and supply situation,” he said.

Ramlee added that the opposition should not politicize such matters but look at the positive side of the efforts undertaken by the government for the sake of the people.