KCCI: Ensure fair distribution of RM500mil

12 September, 2004

Kadazandusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and Sabah Bumiputera Chamber of Commerce (SBCC) agreed that the 2005 National Budget fit the “people-friendly” tag.

They said the budget was generally concerned with the welfare of all sectors in the State and country as a whole.

KCCI President, Datuk Marcus Mojigoh, said the budget was more sympathetic towards Bumiputera entrepreneurs and small-time traders.

He pointed out the significance of the budget in allocating a sum of RM500 million for maintenance of public facilities at district level, which would greatly benefit small-time entrepreneurs.

While expressing strong support for this allocation, Mojigoh hoped distribution of these projects would be carried out in a fair and transparent manner, saying many small-time contractors complained about distribution of projects.

On the increase of excise duty on cigarettes and liquor, Mojigoh said it was timely as the Government wants the people to practise healthy living.

He, however, hoped that the enforcement authorities in the State would effectively deter smuggling of such products to discourage people from smoking and drinking.

He also praised the Government’s incentives and initiatives to help the low-income group in the rural areas.

Meanwhile, SBCC President Datuk Ahmad Lope commended the Prime Minister for taking the initiative to improve and enhance the administration machinery and delivery system.

“It is timely because business and government sectors need to work hand-in-hand and understand each other to boost the nation’s economy.

“Actually the private sector is not very happy with the efficiency level and quality of work of the government sector.

“For the business sector, time is money. That is why we need the public sector to carry out their work efficiently,” he said.

As for the halal food industry, Lope said the industry is not really being capitalised by majority of the business people here although it could reap lucrative income.

But with the encouragement from the Finance Ministry and proposed 100 per cent of investment tax allowance for five years, he is confident the industry will develop.

Federation of Sabah Manufacturers President, Datuk Wong Khen Thau, said small-and-medium industries (SMIs) are well taken care of in the budget unlike last year’s, which focused more benefits on the corporate sector.

“This time the budget displays serious concern on the progress of SMIs and recognises its role as a supporting industry to the country’s economic growth.