KUCHING: If the government is able to show its determination and resolve in addressing the health and economic issues affecting the nation, then confidence from foreign investors and the people will follow, said Datuk Richard Wee.
The Federation of Kuching, Samarahan and Serian Divisions Chinese Associations president was commenting on a remark by Senior Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali that the state of emergency would not weaken investor confidence in Malaysia.
“The imposition of the Emergency Act will result in lesser room for political tussles and power grabs. It will allow the government of the day to concentrate on the focus and effort to combat the pandemic in our country,” he said when contacted on Monday (Jan 18).
He stressed that this, however, should not be abused.
“The government must show the people that it is genuine and sincere in addressing the health and economic issues affecting our nation now, and full attention and economic stimulus must be given. It will be a delicate balance but it has to be done,” he said.
With regard to foreign investment, he said what affected Malaysia would also impact Sarawak.
However, he pointed out that Sarawak had mapped out its own post Covid-19 economic recovery plan under the Sarawak Economic Action Council (SEAC), which was being rolled out according to the timeline and stages.
Meanwhile, Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) treasurer-general Bell Bernard Aggan believed that the state of emergency would affect the tourism, agriculture and retail sectors in Sarawak.
“It deters foreign investors from signing any deals with local partners.
“Nevertheless, our state government is very determined, serious, and focused on containing this Covid-19 outbreak. It is hoped that this will build the confidence of foreign investors,” he said.
