SIBU: The new unity government has been urged to observe free-market laws, loosen regulations, reduce intervention and allow companies to operate in a more favourable environment.
The call comes from the Sibu Hardware and Machinery Association (SHMA) which said it was also important that the leadership implements more practical and fair pro-business policies to boost market confidence.
Its chairman Ling Sieng Ying called on the government to concentrate on economic development and improving the quality of life, seize new opportunities for regional economic cooperation, strengthen interaction and cooperation with the Asean region, explore the development of economic ties, and inject new impetus into promoting economic growth.
He was speaking at the association’s 60th anniversary dinner here on Sunday (Dec 11).
“Most importantly, I hope that all legislators will put the people first, strive to uphold racial harmony, religious freedom, economic openness, and fair governance, and sincerely seek the well-being of the people and create a better tomorrow for the development of our country,” he said.
Ling raised these points as he revealed how hardware companies were now facing cash flow and marketing problems as they grapple with the effects of a slowing economy.
He said coupled with the fact that much of industry still adopts the traditional marketing model, many industry players have fallen into financial difficulties.
“The people are also facing unemployment and high prices,” he said.
“In this difficult period, we hope that all levels of society will unite and work together to cope with the changes in the new economic situation, and strengthen our country’s own unique advantages and functional roles.”
Ling pointed out that the hardware and building materials industry is the most basic in the construction sector, and also the lifeblood of the development of other industries.
However, in recent years, the domestic business environment has declined, and major challenges have emerged in the economic, political, and social environment, he lamented.
In this respect he said it is important for industry players to speak up and provide advice and suggestions to the government to help SMEs
On SHMA, Ling recalled that over the past 60 years, the association has gone through thick and thin, and has grown.
“Thanks to the sincere solidarity of previous chairmen, directors and members, as well as the continuous value-adding and progress of the hardware industry.
“We should continue to unite and cooperate, strive for progress, and further strengthen the modern management of the association,” Ling added.
Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Michael Tiang who was represented by councillor Albert Tiang was the guest of honour at the dinner which was also attended by among others, Lanang MP Alice Lau, president of the Federation of Malaysia Hardware, Machinery and Building Materials Dealers’ Association Datuk Eric Koh , Temengong Datuk Vincent Lau who is SHMA’s honorary adviser as well as the event’s organising chairman Yong Wu Hiong.
