KUCHING: The use of high and digital technology needs to be developed more rapidly to boost small and medium industries (SMIs).
In stating this, Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneurs Chamber (DUBS) president Datuk Abang Helmi Ikhwan said the SMI sector in Malaysia is seen as quite different and is left behind.
When compared to rapidly developing countries and regions abroad, he said, the industry has become a major player.
“The situation in Silicon Valley, China, South Korea and Singapore is developing rapidly, while Malaysia is still far behind. Therefore, we need to focus on facing the challenges that exist in the country.
“We believe that Sarawak has the potential to have better opportunities than other regions in Malaysia because of its existing autonomy,” he said at the Sarawak Bumiputera Entrepreneurs Award Giving Ceremony at Riverside Majestic Hotel here last night (Jan 13).
In this regard, he suggested the Sarawak government conduct a study on how to attract this type of finance, with a focus on financing the SMI sector, especially the digital and high-tech industries.
“Perhaps it could be in the form of tax incentives, relaxation of immigration for skilled personnel, incubator facilities for the high-tech sector and 5G internet in certain areas,” he proposed.
Adding on, Helmi said that entrepreneurs here have reached a critical moment that has never been experienced in the history of the country before when many businesses are affected by the pandemic.
But, there is also a positive effect seen, which is the growth of some new businesses in Sarawak in the food, retail and so on industries.
“Furthermore, existing traders also open up opportunities for new entrepreneurs, who are expected to be more efficient.
“Therefore, DUBS would like to express its appreciation to the Sarawak government for aiding entrepreneurs during these times,” he said.
Meanwhile, touching on the ceremony, he revealed that a total of 256 nominations competed in their respective categories for the year.
“This is a positive increase compared to before. It also shows that Sarawak Bumiputera entrepreneurs are resilient in this industry,” he said.
On top of winning the award, the Sarawak government also offers special prizes by providing easy loans through the SME Loan Scheme and automatic grants to the award winners.
