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Task force can help put Malaysia in top 10
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Thu, Feb 26, 2009
New Straits Times
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>PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA - Malaysia is aiming to be among the top 10 most competitive economies in the world, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said yesterday. The prime minister said this could be achieved through initiatives by Pemudah, the task force set up by the government in 2007 to facilitate businesses.
Abdullah said Malaysia had steadily improved its competitive position, as reflected in various international surveys such as the World Bank Doing Business Report.
Malaysia ranked 25th out of 175 countries in the World Bank report in 2007, rose to 24th last year and to the 20th position this year.
"Malaysia also rose from 23rd to 19th position in the IMD's 2008 World Competitive Yearbook. The progress in international rankings has been accompanied by tangible improvements in the business environment."
Abdullah said this after launching Pemudah's 2008 annual report. Also present were Pemudah co-chairmen Tan Sri Mohd Sidek Hassan and Tan Sri Yong Poh Kon.
Abdullah said the government was concerned about the unprecedented economic crisis.
"But we are in a state of readiness and our experiences have stood us in good stead. We are prepared to act to minimise the impact of the economic downturn.
"It may not be possible to avoid hardship entirely but we will certainly strive to avert protracted unemployment and suffering.
"The (stimulus) package to be announced on March 10 will be a comprehensive one that takes on board feedback from the business community. It will focus on measures to facilitate commerce and job preservation."
Abdullah added that stronger links between the private and public sectors must continue to be forged.
"The government can provide the safety net, allocate funds and provide the necessary incentives to create a conducive investment environment.
"But for these measures to bear truly meaningful results, the private sector must be our partner and complement the initiatives undertaken by the government. It must continue to be an active engine of the economy," he said.
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