By Peter Sibon
KUCHING, Oct 11: Sarawak Federation of Chinese Associations president Dato Richard Wee described the 2020 Budget as just a ‘whimper’.
“Nothing great. No positive surprises for the trade, commerce and industry. With the exception of minimum wage which has increased to RM1,200 which will put pressure directly to the private sector.
“A more comprehensive blueprint for SMEs (small and medium enterprises) and middle income sector needs to be the engine to power the economy of our nation,” Wee told DayakDaily today.
Wee pointed out that to achieve developed nation status, great emphasis must be put on the creation of middle class and also on SMEs.
“In fact, for every developed nation, one would find a strong and large band of middle class and a robust SMEs,” he said.
He was content with the allocation for aided schools.
“Apart from the increased allocation for the schools, there is nothing to talk about. There is nothing significant. Again it’s just a whimper. Grant for Chinese Independent Schools increased from RM12 million to RM15 million.
“However, the allocation to Tunku Abdul Rahman (TAR) College was reduced to only 1 million,” he added. — DayakDaily
