SANTUBONG: PEKEMA (Association of Malay Importers and Traders of Motor Vehicles Malaysia) members are thrilled and relieved with the Prime Minister’s recent announcement on the exemption of the cabotage policy effective 1 June.
Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports, Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said that the exemption would stimulate the growth of the local motor industry following the recent economy downturn.
“When it (exemption) comes to effect on 1 June, imported cars will be shipped straight to the state which will definitely decrease the cost incurred by PEKEMA. Until the effective date, PEKEMA will still be bearing this hefty cost.
“Hence, I hope PEKEMA members will be able to kickstart their business again with the exemption of the cabotage policy once it is put into effect,” Karim said in his speech during PEKEMA Appreciation Dinner held at Damai Beach Resort here on Saturday.
He also urged PEKEMA members to be more competitive by being proactive and creative in order to compete with those in the industry and the franchisors.
“Creative ideas are the key to many successes these days. Therefore, PEKEMA should take a creative and perhaps and innovative approach to be more competitive in promoting their products,” said Karim.
President of PEKEMA Sarawak, Datuk Seri Abang Khalid Tan Sri Abang Marzuki who also spoke said that PEKEMA was thrilled but skeptical of what the exemption of cabotage will bring about.
“We may not know how effective this exemption may be but we are sure that the monopolising practice will no longer affect us.
“Our stocks will be directly shipped to Sarawak and this will greatly save time and shipment cost,” Khalid said.
During the dinner, Khalid also presented a total donation of RM20,000 to four places of worship namely Masjid Nurir Rahmani, Masjid Datuk Muttaqin, St Paul Church, Siol Kandis and Kpg Buntal Tua Pek Kong.
Also present were PEKEMA Central President, Datuk Zainuddin Abdul Rahman, PEKEMA Central Vice-President, Datuk Nazir Sheikh Fadzir and other distinguished guests.
