By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 14: Improving the Subsidised Diesel Control System (SKDS) were among the issues raised by the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sarawak (ACCCIS) during a courtesy call to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at the Satria Pertiwi Complex in Petra Jaya today.
According to a statement, the ACCCIS delegation, led by its president Kong Chiong Ung, presented a memorandum outlining the business community’s concerns and recommendations on issues affecting businesses and Sarawak’s socio-economic development.
At the same time, chamber raised concerns over illegal online gambling and drug abuse, saying both threaten public safety, workforce productivity and young people’s future. It called for stronger enforcement, public awareness and closer collaboration between the government, businesses and the community to tackle the issues.
On the implementation of the SKDS diesel subsidy mechanism, ACCCIS said the existing subsidy quota does not adequately reflect Sarawak’s vast geographical landscape, longer travelling distances and challenging operating environment.
It noted that sectors such as construction, agriculture, logistics and services continue to face higher operating costs, while many legitimate commercial vehicles remain excluded from the subsidy scheme.
The chamber urged the Sarawak government to engage the federal government to review the diesel subsidy quota and application mechanism and adopt a more flexible approach that reflects Sarawak’s needs.
Responding to the issues raised, Abang Johari assured the delegation that the Sarawak government would give due consideration to the matters highlighted.
The Premier also agreed to allocate RM1.5 million to the Bintulu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry to establish the Bintulu Innovation and Enterprise Hub to support business development, innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly among SMEs.
Also present were ACCCIS president Kong Chiong Ung, vice-presidents Dato Tan Jit Kee and Datuk Wee Kok Hui, secretary-general Dato Chai Voon Tok, deputy secretary-general Andy Yek Hock Siang, treasurer Noel Yek Nae Shiuan, council member Ling Kie King, and Bintulu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry committee member Jacky Yong Ka Yein. — DayakDaily
