Here we
have the Prime Minister saying we should help local companies, give
them all the support just so the economy gets a boost.
But how often and how many listen to Najib Tun Razak? We should be
proud of the companies that have ventured overseas and succeeded. But
what about the other companies that are equally capable but yet
languishing?
It is not for want of talent. It is more about the lack of resources
and support. Talking about support, let’s take the on-going KLIA 2
project as a case in point. The initial objective of the project was to
stimulate the economy. What is the true benefit to local suppliers and
contractors?
One of the recent development, albeit speculation, is that a large
contract for supply, operation and maintenance was given to a company
from mainland China. Why was that done?
Is it because they made the highest bid? That is a disturbing piece
of news? They have the best expertise? Or were they well connected? It
has been documented countless times that products from China have major
issues due to compromising on performance to meet aggressive price
levels.
And it is difficult to hold them accountable for their
transgressions. It is not the intention of this letter to pick fault on
others. It is more a plea for giving a decent chance to local companies.
Is that too much to ask?
We have come to understand that a well established local company was
shortlisted for the aerobridge project. Despite its past track record in
manufacturing and supply of the same product, the recent tender was
given, still unofficial, to a state-owned China-based company.
The local company, we understand, put in a competitive bid. The
company has a proven track record. But it was denied at the last minute.
The game plan changed, or to qoute the Prime Minister it was a game
changer.
The local company was left to nurse its wounds in disappointment. Why must this sorry state of affairs be allowed to persist?
From a operational and security point of view, do we need mainland
Chinese personnel manning our airports or stationed at the tarmac? Is
there any guarantee to prevent illegal entry? Would that not compromise
our national security?
This is not a far fetched idea. India, America and Australia, to name
a few, are still wary of China firms and have banned them from
airports, ports projects for lesser reasons. Mining and software
provider for instance.
That the sectors they were banned from having a presence. And here we
are talking about enrty points to the country. A foreigner having
unlimited access. Should we should rethink this?
That is indeed a disturbing piece of news. It gives the impression
that Malaysian companies are incapable of handling any job. They can
only do menial jobs. It is a wrong impression that must be set right. We
are second to none.
We have world-class companies. Unfortunately, our colonial influenced
mind does not recognise that. Change we must. It is about time we are
recognised for what we can do. We must support our local companies.
There is no room for bargaining. The multiplier effect itself speaks
volumes. More jobs for Malaysians, taking care of their welfare and
contributing to the wealth of the nation, among many more things.
The Government, and the Treasury in particular, must step in to
ensure that money spent is recirculated within the domestic economy so
as to keep the country growing and not enrich individuals.
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