By Lian Cheng
KUCHING, Apr 10: Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg’s Bantuan Khas Sarawakku Sayang 2.0 has received thumbs ups from businessmen, hawkers and bankers, some of whom are from Peninsular Malaysia.
According to Sarawak Federation of Chinese Associations president Datuk Richard Wee, he has received messages from the local business community as well as those from Peninsular Malaysia, expressing appreciation and some envy for Abang Johari’s latest initiative to combat economic slowdown caused by Covid-19 pandemic.
“The announcement which was made about two hours has been receiving all-round applause. All the good, positive and overwhelming feedback all round.
“It is very well received even from my friends from the financial and banking circle in West Malaysia,” Wee told DayakDaily.
Describing it as a “timely package”, Wee said this second batch of stimulus package shows that Abang Johari is an inclusive and caring chief minister.
“The interest-free soft loan is a testament of the sincerity of the Sarawak government in assisting the SMEs (small and medium enterprises) in Sarawak.
“It also shows the importance our CM has placed on the SME sector while recognising their contribution to our economy.
“The grant to the hawkers also demonstrates the caring and concern for the lower-income sector of our society by our Sarawak government.
“The whole package shows that Abang Johari is an inclusive and caring chief minister for all strata of our society and a true leader with the heart for the rakyat and all anak Sarawak,” said Wee.
Wee however, also pointed out that while the announcement is well received, the aid package is only as good as its delivery.
“Therefore, it is important that the process of applications through banks and agencies can be made as simple and efficient as possible to ensure that the intended assistance provided by the government reaches the targeted sectors in the shortest possible time so that the SMEs, the hawkers, the petty traders can really make full use of the assistance.” — DayakDaily
