‘SCCCI to monitor govt performance’

SIBU: Sibu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI) looks forward to more peoplecentric and business-friendly policies under the new political leadership.

SCCCI president Dr Hii Sui Cheng said: “As in the past, our business chamber will continue to monitor and provide feedback to both the state and federal governments.

“That is the role of business chamber and I hope the governments will be responsive to our suggestions for improvement.”

Stating that SCCCI values good relationship, he said: “Only by working together can we best function to benefit the citizens irrespective of races and religions so that Malaysia will achieve greater heights and we can hold our heads high in Asia and in the world.”

Public member Mohd Safree Mohd Kassim, on the other hand, said Malaysia practises democratic system, hence the results of the 14th General Election (GE14) need to be respected and accepted although BN lost and the change of administration might appear shocking and disappointing to some.

“But Sarawak BN should be proud as it remains strong and united,” Mohd Safree suggested.

A former travel agent, Robert Tan, meanwhile, looks forward to the new government to bring fresh new hope for the people.

“The abolition of Goods and Services Tax (GST) really solves the main issue and (is) a big relief to most businessmen.

“GST or VAT (value- added tax) in European countries can be implemented but not (at) six per cent. Three to four per cent is the normal rate and can rise gradually on year to year just like in Singapore,” he suggested.

“We hope the new government will control the expenses and create a stronger government,” he added.

Tan, who follows the country’s political development closely, said Tun Mahathir deserved a big credit for uniting DAP and PKR.

On DAP’s winning with bigger majority in P212 Sibu, he said BN’s defeat was due largely to the wind of change that swept the entire nation.

He believed the timing was not right for BN- SUPP candidate Dato Andrew Wong. The squabble between SUPP and UPP also put Wong in the disadvantage, he added.

“Wong should be encouraged and not to give up easily. His father ( Minister of International Trade and E- Commerce Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh) also lost on his first attempt but improved on each election due to his hard work and determination,” Tan said.