The Perak Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCCI) along with Perak Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DPPM) and Perak Indian Chamber of Commerce (PICC) expressed their concerns over recent talks and gossips, including the circulation of an outdated video clip regarding a possible change of the state government.
During a joint media conference on Monday, March 25 held at PCCCI building, the three chambers of commerce highlighted that the frequent use of race and religion to garner political support has created a sense of uncertainty and anxiety among the people, in general, and the business community, in particular.
“It certainly does not help in promoting goodwill and confidence that are much needed to spur an already soft economy,” said Dato’ Liew Sew Yee, president of PCCCI.
The three chambers of commerce acknowledged that the new government has initiated several projects and programmes that have benefitted the people, such as the use of common parking coupons for all town councils, the changeover to LED street lighting, the visibly cleaner roads and drains, the regular tourist promotion programmes, abolishment of the Business and Industrial Trades 2017 By-Laws (UUK Tred 2017) which fueled fears of licensing fees increase and others.
“We feel that there’s still a lot more to be done going forward, especially in the area of engagement with the stakeholders. Everything notwithstanding, we recognise that the new government, and the people administering it, are still relatively new in office and should be given the time and space to deliver,” Dato’ Liew added.
In the meantime, the chambers of commerce would like to see less politicking, less hype on race and religious issues and more time and effort expended on improving the wellbeing of the people.
Present were Dato’ Muhammad Muhiyuddin, President of Perak Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry and John Nesan, Vice President of Perak Indian Chamber of Commerce.
