Business chamber urges government to increase subsidies for SMEs
SIBU: Sarawak Branch of Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce president Datuk Lau Nai Hoh hopes the government can increase subsidies to help businesses particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) during this difficult time.
During his address at the 4th Second General Meeting of Sarawak Branch of MalaysiaChina Chamber of Commerce via online yesterday, he said the government could introduce some affordable or supporting assistance for businesses.
Such assistance, he believed, would benefit the people eventually.
He pointed out that with Covid-19 pandemic affecting countries worldwide, the government could not expect to revive the economy in a short period of time.
He acknowledged that the government had made many efforts to help domestic enterprises last year but noted that, as the pandemic worsens, business is further slowing down this year.
The government is also urged to encourage the development of plantation and downstream industries.
“Malaysia is country rich in natural resources which can help in the development of this country,” he said.
Crops such as Chinese herbs, he added, has great market potential locally and internationally.
Lau remains optimistic that the economy and development in Sarawak can continue to grow despite this challenging time.
He pointed to the government’s plan to construct the coastal highway and second trunk road which could drive unlimited economic effects and business opportunities.
“Large areas of land will be exploited, it will be more economically valuable, and will also provide lands for large farms and plantations and factories, thus stimulate our economy,” he said.
He urged the local sector to seize the opportunity to grow their businesses.
He is also optimistic that Malaysia-China businesses will continue to thrive despite the Covid-19 pandemic.