Malaysia's ties with S. Africa start on good footing
SOUTH Africa, which is Malaysia's largest trading partner in Africa, makes a "flying" start to boost bilateral ties in 2012.
Thanks to Prime Minister Datuk Najib Razak's visit in the beginning of the year, albeit brief, the vistas for trade and investment opportunities are expected to broaden.
But the rates can be improved over the next decade based on the 15 per cent two-way annual growth rate for the past decade, said South African High Commissioner Thami Mseleku.
"As Malaysia's largest trading partner on the African continent, South Africa continues to offer the best investment destination for Malaysian business," he said.
Following Najib's visit, there is work underway to take the bilateral relations to a new level, which includes a visit by the Malaysian business community to meet their counterparts in South Africa.
"Malaysian businesses should take advantage of opportunities presented through his country's world-class infrastructure and sophisticated economic environment.
"Furthermore, South Africa is well positioned as a global business partner and serves as a gateway not only for the Southern African (SADC) region, but also Africa as a whole."
South Africa is Malaysia's 25th largest trading partner. Total trade amounted to RM5.2 billion last year.
For South Africa, Malaysia is its largest export destination in the Asean region with total bilateral trade increasing over four-fold to about RM 5.83 billion in 2010 - the balance of trade in Malaysia's favour.
Malaysian goods such as palm oil, telephone sets, monitors and projectors, automatic data processing machines and rubber are finding their way into the South African market, while Malaysian imports comprise mainly commodities - mineral fuels, iron and steel, aluminium but also an array of agricultural products.
According to the Malaysian External Trade Development Corp (Matrade) Malaysia's trillion ringgit trade volume in 2010 was contributed by significant increases in exports from South Africa, where exports jumped by 40.7 per cent, thanks to the palm oil uptake.
South Africa's significance as a member of the G20 major economies has earned further international recognition in the group of emerging countries with it joining the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) grouping.
Highly ranked in the 2011 World Bank Report for Ease of Doing Business, South Africa was ranked number two in the ease of obtaining credit and 10th in investor protection out of 183 countries.
The World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness Report ranked South Africa 54th in terms of overall competitiveness, ahead of countries such as Russia, Brazil and Mexico.
South Africa was also ranked 38th in business sophistication and 24th in business sector innovation.
"As an investment destination South Africa presents a number of very lucrative opportunities, especially in business process outsourcing and IT enabled services, electro-technical industries, automotives and components and metal fabrication, capital and transport equipment," Mseleku said.
The South African government offers various attractive investment incentives, targeted at specific sectors or types of business activities.
"Among others, foreign investment and training grants and significant tax deductions for qualifying projects are available," he said, adding that South Africa has no general restrictions on inflows and outflows of foreign capital under exchange controls.
"Local borrowing for the purpose of genuine FDI may be undertaken without restriction, while foreign companies may also raise capital in the local equity and bond markets (inward listings) with prior approval."
Also, there are no restrictions on property ownership by non-residents provided that there is compliance with procedures.
"Currently, Malaysian investment in South Africa is found in the petroleum sector, as well as in the leisure and housing sectors," Mseleku said.
Petronas is the majority shareholder of the South African Engen oil company, which operates 1,600 service stations in 17 countries on the African continent.
Important South African business activities in Malaysia include the establishment of the hugely popular and successful Nandos peri-peri chicken franchise, with 35 outlets currently in operation.
"To give further momentum to the business relationship between the two countries, the South African High Commission will be arranging several events in the next few weeks and months.
The High Commission will soon join forces with the Malaysian Institute of Accountants in hosting a special seminar "Business and Investment Opportunities in South Africa".
South African firms in the arms manufacturing and security industry will be showcasing their products and engage in business enterprises during the forthcoming Defence Services Asia Fair and Exhibition at the Putra World Trade Centre.
The efforts of the High Commission to enhance business relations between Malaysia and South Africa are augmented through the support given by the Malaysia-South Africa Business Council.
Mseleku said the recent visit to South Africa by Najib underlines the significance of the strong relationship between the two countries, which evolved during Malaysia's support for the liberation movement, and were further cemented through the personal friendship between the countries' iconic statesmen, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and former president Nelson Mandela.
To Malaysia, Najib's visit signalled close relations between both countries and Malaysia's consistent foreign policy of supporting South Africa and the struggles of its black people for their rights.
Najib was in South Africa at the invitation of South African president Jacob Juma, along with 45 other heads of state to gather in Bloemfontein, to witness the historic moment of the centenary celebration of the ruling party, the African National Congress.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 26 January 2011
Friday, January 27, 2012
Today's Pick (27/01/12/017/709) Pelaburan domestik diutamakan
Pelaburan domestik diutamakan
TAHUN 2012 diunjur sebagai tempoh yang sangat mencabar kepada semua negara termasuk Malaysia berikutan krisis ekonomi global yang berterusan.
Sehubungan itu, Wartawan Utusan Malaysia, NORLAILI ABDUL RAHMAN telah menemubual Menteri Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri, DATUK SERI MUSTAPA MOHAMED untuk mendapatkan pandangan tentang usaha-usaha dilakukan dalam memastikan ekonomi Malaysia kekal berkembang di sebalik apa yang berlaku. Berikut adalah temu bual tersebut:
UTUSAN: Umum mengetahui ekonomi global sememangnya bermasalah, apakah usaha yang dilakukan untuk meningkatkan pelaburan termasuk pelaburan asing?
MUSTAPA: Kita akui bahawa tahun ini lebih mencabar untuk mencapai angka pelaburan yang sama seperti mana tahun 2010 dan 2011. Namun, harus diingat, pertumbuhan negara bukan bergantung kepada pelaburan langsung asing (FDI) semata-mata sebaliknya pelaburan domestik (DDI) juga menjadi penyumbang utama kepada perolehan Malaysia. Jadi pada tahun 2012 ini, MITI dan kerajaan mahu memberi lebih tumpuan kepada DDI. Ini bukan bermakna kami menidakkan sumbangan pelabur asing, tetapi strategi ini bertujuan memastikan pertumbuhan negara tidak terjejas.
Sejauh mana prestasi pelaburan kita tahun lalu?
Malaysia terus kekal sebagai destinasi pelaburan yang menarik bagi pelabur asing.
Dari Januari hingga November 2011, Malaysia telah menarik pelaburan yang besar dalam sektor perkilangan, perkhidmatan dan sektor-sektor utama dengan pelaburan yang diluluskan sebanyak RM120.4 bilion daripada 3,825 projek.
Angka ini melepasi sasaran purata pelaburan tahunan yang disasarkan di bawah Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10 sebanyak RM115 billion.
Dari jumlah ini pelaburan domestik adalah sebanyak RM69.2 bilion atau 57.5 peratus manakala pelaburan asing pula sebanyak RM51.2 billion. Apabila projek-projek tersebut dilaksanakan, kita menjangkakan sebanyak 118,384 peluang pekerjaan akan dijana kepada rakyat tempatan.
Apakah negara-negara yang menjadi pelabur utama FDI di negara ini?
Prestasi Pelaburan Januari hingga November 2011 menunjukkan Jepun, Amerika Syarikat, Singapura, Arab Saudi dan Republik Korea adalah sumber utama pelaburan asing dalam projek-projek yang diluluskan bagi sektor perkilangan dengan pelaburan sebanyak RM14.4 bilion atau 56.2 peratus daripada jumlah pelaburan asing yang diluluskan.
Bolehkah Datuk Seri ceritakan dengan lebih terperinci, sektor manakah yang telah menerima pelaburan paling tinggi pada tahun lalu?
Bagi Januari hingga November 2011, Industri elektrik dan elektronik (E & E) kekal sebagai industri yang tertinggi diikuti dengan keluaran logam asas, kimia dan produk kimia, kelengkapan pengangkutan dan produk logam yang direka. Kelima-lima industri ini menyumbang RM33.1 bilion atau 72.7 peratus daripada jumlah pelaburan yang diluluskan.
Apakah inisiatif-inisiatif lain yang bakal diperkenalkan bagi mendorong lebih banyak pelaburan masuk ke negara ini.
Pelbagai inisiatif untuk memastikan bahawa negara ini kekal sebagai destinasi yang menarik bagi aliran FDI global. Inisiatif-inisiatif ini dikaji semula dari semasa ke semasa dan dipantau secara berterusan untuk memastikan keberkesanan mereka dalam usaha mengekalkan daya saing, Kerajaan sentiasa berusaha untuk memperbaiki persekitaran perniagaan di negara ini termasuk penyediaan insentif-insentif yang menarik untuk menarik pelaburan yang berkualiti dari kedua-dua pelabur tempatan dan asing kerana ia tidak lagi mempromosikan projek-projek yang nilai tambahnya rendah dan projek-projek yang berorientasikan buruh.
Menyentuh mengenai Perjanjian Perdagangan Bebas (FTA) yang merupakan salah satu cara untuk meningkatkan perdagangan Malaysia, jadi berapa banyakkah FTA yang bakal ditandatangani Malaysia pada tahun ini?
Kita sedang berunding FTA dengan Australia, Kesatuan Eropah, Turki selain Pakatan Trans-Pasifik (TPP) yang melibatkan sembilan buah negara. Selepas ini, Malaysia juga mungkin akan menandatangani FTA dengan Majlis Kerjasama Teluk (GCC). Keempat-empat FTA tersebut kecuali TPP diyakini mampu dimuktamadkan pada tahun ini.
Bolehkah Datuk Seri jelaskan lebih lanjut tentang FTA dan kelebihan yang boleh dinikmati oleh Malaysia menerusinya?
Malaysia mengamalkan dasar ekonomi terbuka dan banyak bergantung kepada perdagangan antarabangsa sebagai jentera pertumbuhan ekonomi yang penting, terutamanya dari segi eksport.
FTA banyak membantu Malaysia untuk mendapatkan akses pasaran yang lebih baik bagi barangan dan perkhidmatan selain mempromosi dan memudahkan perdagangan dan pelaburan melalui langkah-langkah fasilitasi serta kerjasama ekonomi.
Apakah faedah-faedah lain yang boleh dinikmati oleh Malaysia melalui FTA?
Ia mewujudkan peluang-peluang akses pasaran bagi pengeksport dan pembekal perkhidmatan Malaysia. Bagi barangan, akses kepada pasaran rakan FTA dipertingkatkan melalui layanan keutamaan (preferential treatment) yang dinikmati oleh barangan eksport Malaysia berbanding eksport negara-negara lain yang tidak mempunyai FTA dengan negara tersebut.
FTA juga menjadi memberikan kelebihan kepada pengeksport-pengeksport Malaysia di pasaran-pasaran yang dilindungi, contohnya tekstil dan pakaian di Amerika Syarikat.
Berapa banyakkah perjanjian FTA yang telah di meterai termasuk melalui ASEAN dan apakah hasil yang telah diraih?
Sebanyak 10 perjanjian FTA telah dimeterai dan dilaksanakan yang hasilnya menyaksikan pembukaan pasaran oleh rakan FTA Malaysia, sekali gus meningkat prestasi perdagangan. Sebenarnya banyak hasil yang telah diraih, contohnya di bawah perjanjian Malaysia-Japan EPA (MJEPA) yang mula dilaksanakan 13 Julai 2006 menyaksikan jumlah perdagangan antara kedua-dua negara telah meningkat sebanyak 14 peratus kepada RM133 bilion pada tahun 2010, berbanding RM113.3 bilion pada tahun 2005.
Malah eksport Malaysia ke Jepun telah meningkat sebanyak 32 peratus kepada RM66.8 bilion bagi tahun 2010, berbanding RM50.5 bilion pada tahun 2005.
Manakala FTA Malaysia-Pakistan CEPA (MPCEPA) yang dilaksanakan 1 Januari 2008 pula memperlihatkan eksport ke Pakistan mencatatkan peningkatan sebanyak 69 peratus kepada RM7.3 bilion bagi tahun 2010, berbanding RM4.3 bilion pada tahun 2007.
Datuk Seri telah memperjelaskan kelebihan daripada perdagangan, bagaimanapun manfaat dari segi pelaburan?
Dari segi pelaburan pula, dengan adanya FTA pelabur Malaysia akan diberi layanan yang sama dengan pelabur tempatan (national treatment) dan pelaburan mereka dilindungi di bawah undang-undang tempatan dan pelbagai lagi kelebihan yang ada.
MITI telah mengambil alih peranan oleh Kementerian Pembangunan Usahawan dan Koperasi (MECD) dalam membangunkan usahawan, apakah usaha dilakukan untuk memantapkan mereka?
Kami juga turut memperkenalkan satu program baharu yang berkaitan dengan keusahawanan sosial di kalangan pelajar-pelajar di peringkat institusi pengajian tinggi (IPT). Program yang dikenali 1Malaysia Young Entrepreneur Challenge (1MYEC) berperanan mempromosi bakat dan kemahiran keusahawanan di kalangan pelajar. Seramai 260 peserta daripada 31 IPT menyertai program ini pada 2011.
Bagi program peningkatan produk dan pemasaran, sejumlah 11 program telah berjaya dilaksanakan pada tahun 2011. Program-program tersebut adalah Showcase SDSI peringkat Nasional 2011, penyertaan pameran perdagangan domestik di MIHAS 2011, Ekspo Perdagangan Regatta Sarawak, HalFest 2011, Pameran Produk di Showcase Pelancongan Sabah 2011.
Untuk program-program di bawah outreach/turun padang pula, lima siri program MITI Bersama Usahawan (Karnival Usahawan), tiga program Transformasi Halal, 21 lawatan kilang, lima seminar dan tiga dialog bersama NGO Bumiputera telah berjaya dilaksanakan.
Bagaimanakah pula program lain?
MITI telah melaksanakan banyak program termasuk program SIFE World Cup 2011, di mana Kuala Lumpur telah terpilih sebagai tuan rumah bagi program ini yang diadakan mulai 3 hingga 5 Oktober 2011. Sejumlah 2,800 pelajar dari 37 negara seluruh dunia menyertai program ini. Negara-negara yang terlibat antaranya ialah Jerman, Amerika Syarikat, Jepun, Korea, negara-negara Afrika seperti Zimbabwe, Afrika Selatan dan juga negara-negara daripada Amerika Selatan dan Timur Tengah.
Adakah MITI akan memperkenalkan program baharu tahun ini?
Program yang dirancang oleh MITI bagi tahun 2012, salah satunya adalah usaha bagi memantau projek rintis di bawah Lab Bumiputera. Sejumlah 20 projek rintis telah dikenalpasti melalui Lab Bumiputera yang dilaksanakan oleh BPU pada 2011. Setakat ini, satu projek rintis MY MRT telah diluluskan oleh Teraju Delivery Committee bagi pelaksanaan 2012. MITI juga dipertanggungjawabkan untuk memantau pelaksanaan projek-projek ini.
Apakah kekangan yang dihadapi oleh MITI dalam melaksanakan program Bumiputera?
Berbeza dengan MECD dahulu, MITI mempunyai peruntukan yang amat terhad sehingga tidak mampu untuk melaksanakan program keusahawanan secara agresif dan memenuhi kehendak pelanggan yang ramai terdiri daripada pelbagai lapisan masyarakat. Sungguhpun begitu, MITI kerap melaksanakan program-program kerjasama dengan pihak-pihak luar seperti dialog, seminar dan latihan serta telah mewujudkan saluran Khidmat Nasihat Keusahawanan melalui Business Advisory Centre (BAC) yang dilancarkan secara rasmi pada 29 Mac 2010.
Sungguhpun begitu, MITI telah memainkan peranan yang agak menonjol berbanding agensi-agensi lain yang juga ‘mewarisi’ peranan dan tanggungjawab berikutan pembubaran MECD.
Apakah hasrat Datuk Seri pada tahun ini?
Sebagai menteri yang bertanggungjawab di dalam hal-hal berkaitan dengan pelaburan dan perdagangan terutamanya, apa jua kami lakukan di MITI, Petunjuk Prestasi Utama (KPI) saya menjurus kepada pelaburan dan perdagangan negara. Paling penting kita dapat menyediakan iklim pelaburan dan perdagangan yang konduksif untuk pelabur-pelabur tempatan dan luar negara sekaligus dapat menjana peluang pekerjaan yang baik dan berkualiti kepada rakyat Malaysia.
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 26 January 2012
TAHUN 2012 diunjur sebagai tempoh yang sangat mencabar kepada semua negara termasuk Malaysia berikutan krisis ekonomi global yang berterusan.
Sehubungan itu, Wartawan Utusan Malaysia, NORLAILI ABDUL RAHMAN telah menemubual Menteri Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri, DATUK SERI MUSTAPA MOHAMED untuk mendapatkan pandangan tentang usaha-usaha dilakukan dalam memastikan ekonomi Malaysia kekal berkembang di sebalik apa yang berlaku. Berikut adalah temu bual tersebut:
UTUSAN: Umum mengetahui ekonomi global sememangnya bermasalah, apakah usaha yang dilakukan untuk meningkatkan pelaburan termasuk pelaburan asing?
MUSTAPA: Kita akui bahawa tahun ini lebih mencabar untuk mencapai angka pelaburan yang sama seperti mana tahun 2010 dan 2011. Namun, harus diingat, pertumbuhan negara bukan bergantung kepada pelaburan langsung asing (FDI) semata-mata sebaliknya pelaburan domestik (DDI) juga menjadi penyumbang utama kepada perolehan Malaysia. Jadi pada tahun 2012 ini, MITI dan kerajaan mahu memberi lebih tumpuan kepada DDI. Ini bukan bermakna kami menidakkan sumbangan pelabur asing, tetapi strategi ini bertujuan memastikan pertumbuhan negara tidak terjejas.
Sejauh mana prestasi pelaburan kita tahun lalu?
Malaysia terus kekal sebagai destinasi pelaburan yang menarik bagi pelabur asing.
Dari Januari hingga November 2011, Malaysia telah menarik pelaburan yang besar dalam sektor perkilangan, perkhidmatan dan sektor-sektor utama dengan pelaburan yang diluluskan sebanyak RM120.4 bilion daripada 3,825 projek.
Angka ini melepasi sasaran purata pelaburan tahunan yang disasarkan di bawah Rancangan Malaysia Ke-10 sebanyak RM115 billion.
Dari jumlah ini pelaburan domestik adalah sebanyak RM69.2 bilion atau 57.5 peratus manakala pelaburan asing pula sebanyak RM51.2 billion. Apabila projek-projek tersebut dilaksanakan, kita menjangkakan sebanyak 118,384 peluang pekerjaan akan dijana kepada rakyat tempatan.
Apakah negara-negara yang menjadi pelabur utama FDI di negara ini?
Prestasi Pelaburan Januari hingga November 2011 menunjukkan Jepun, Amerika Syarikat, Singapura, Arab Saudi dan Republik Korea adalah sumber utama pelaburan asing dalam projek-projek yang diluluskan bagi sektor perkilangan dengan pelaburan sebanyak RM14.4 bilion atau 56.2 peratus daripada jumlah pelaburan asing yang diluluskan.
Bolehkah Datuk Seri ceritakan dengan lebih terperinci, sektor manakah yang telah menerima pelaburan paling tinggi pada tahun lalu?
Bagi Januari hingga November 2011, Industri elektrik dan elektronik (E & E) kekal sebagai industri yang tertinggi diikuti dengan keluaran logam asas, kimia dan produk kimia, kelengkapan pengangkutan dan produk logam yang direka. Kelima-lima industri ini menyumbang RM33.1 bilion atau 72.7 peratus daripada jumlah pelaburan yang diluluskan.
Apakah inisiatif-inisiatif lain yang bakal diperkenalkan bagi mendorong lebih banyak pelaburan masuk ke negara ini.
Pelbagai inisiatif untuk memastikan bahawa negara ini kekal sebagai destinasi yang menarik bagi aliran FDI global. Inisiatif-inisiatif ini dikaji semula dari semasa ke semasa dan dipantau secara berterusan untuk memastikan keberkesanan mereka dalam usaha mengekalkan daya saing, Kerajaan sentiasa berusaha untuk memperbaiki persekitaran perniagaan di negara ini termasuk penyediaan insentif-insentif yang menarik untuk menarik pelaburan yang berkualiti dari kedua-dua pelabur tempatan dan asing kerana ia tidak lagi mempromosikan projek-projek yang nilai tambahnya rendah dan projek-projek yang berorientasikan buruh.
Menyentuh mengenai Perjanjian Perdagangan Bebas (FTA) yang merupakan salah satu cara untuk meningkatkan perdagangan Malaysia, jadi berapa banyakkah FTA yang bakal ditandatangani Malaysia pada tahun ini?
Kita sedang berunding FTA dengan Australia, Kesatuan Eropah, Turki selain Pakatan Trans-Pasifik (TPP) yang melibatkan sembilan buah negara. Selepas ini, Malaysia juga mungkin akan menandatangani FTA dengan Majlis Kerjasama Teluk (GCC). Keempat-empat FTA tersebut kecuali TPP diyakini mampu dimuktamadkan pada tahun ini.
Bolehkah Datuk Seri jelaskan lebih lanjut tentang FTA dan kelebihan yang boleh dinikmati oleh Malaysia menerusinya?
Malaysia mengamalkan dasar ekonomi terbuka dan banyak bergantung kepada perdagangan antarabangsa sebagai jentera pertumbuhan ekonomi yang penting, terutamanya dari segi eksport.
FTA banyak membantu Malaysia untuk mendapatkan akses pasaran yang lebih baik bagi barangan dan perkhidmatan selain mempromosi dan memudahkan perdagangan dan pelaburan melalui langkah-langkah fasilitasi serta kerjasama ekonomi.
Apakah faedah-faedah lain yang boleh dinikmati oleh Malaysia melalui FTA?
Ia mewujudkan peluang-peluang akses pasaran bagi pengeksport dan pembekal perkhidmatan Malaysia. Bagi barangan, akses kepada pasaran rakan FTA dipertingkatkan melalui layanan keutamaan (preferential treatment) yang dinikmati oleh barangan eksport Malaysia berbanding eksport negara-negara lain yang tidak mempunyai FTA dengan negara tersebut.
FTA juga menjadi memberikan kelebihan kepada pengeksport-pengeksport Malaysia di pasaran-pasaran yang dilindungi, contohnya tekstil dan pakaian di Amerika Syarikat.
Berapa banyakkah perjanjian FTA yang telah di meterai termasuk melalui ASEAN dan apakah hasil yang telah diraih?
Sebanyak 10 perjanjian FTA telah dimeterai dan dilaksanakan yang hasilnya menyaksikan pembukaan pasaran oleh rakan FTA Malaysia, sekali gus meningkat prestasi perdagangan. Sebenarnya banyak hasil yang telah diraih, contohnya di bawah perjanjian Malaysia-Japan EPA (MJEPA) yang mula dilaksanakan 13 Julai 2006 menyaksikan jumlah perdagangan antara kedua-dua negara telah meningkat sebanyak 14 peratus kepada RM133 bilion pada tahun 2010, berbanding RM113.3 bilion pada tahun 2005.
Malah eksport Malaysia ke Jepun telah meningkat sebanyak 32 peratus kepada RM66.8 bilion bagi tahun 2010, berbanding RM50.5 bilion pada tahun 2005.
Manakala FTA Malaysia-Pakistan CEPA (MPCEPA) yang dilaksanakan 1 Januari 2008 pula memperlihatkan eksport ke Pakistan mencatatkan peningkatan sebanyak 69 peratus kepada RM7.3 bilion bagi tahun 2010, berbanding RM4.3 bilion pada tahun 2007.
Datuk Seri telah memperjelaskan kelebihan daripada perdagangan, bagaimanapun manfaat dari segi pelaburan?
Dari segi pelaburan pula, dengan adanya FTA pelabur Malaysia akan diberi layanan yang sama dengan pelabur tempatan (national treatment) dan pelaburan mereka dilindungi di bawah undang-undang tempatan dan pelbagai lagi kelebihan yang ada.
MITI telah mengambil alih peranan oleh Kementerian Pembangunan Usahawan dan Koperasi (MECD) dalam membangunkan usahawan, apakah usaha dilakukan untuk memantapkan mereka?
Kami juga turut memperkenalkan satu program baharu yang berkaitan dengan keusahawanan sosial di kalangan pelajar-pelajar di peringkat institusi pengajian tinggi (IPT). Program yang dikenali 1Malaysia Young Entrepreneur Challenge (1MYEC) berperanan mempromosi bakat dan kemahiran keusahawanan di kalangan pelajar. Seramai 260 peserta daripada 31 IPT menyertai program ini pada 2011.
Bagi program peningkatan produk dan pemasaran, sejumlah 11 program telah berjaya dilaksanakan pada tahun 2011. Program-program tersebut adalah Showcase SDSI peringkat Nasional 2011, penyertaan pameran perdagangan domestik di MIHAS 2011, Ekspo Perdagangan Regatta Sarawak, HalFest 2011, Pameran Produk di Showcase Pelancongan Sabah 2011.
Untuk program-program di bawah outreach/turun padang pula, lima siri program MITI Bersama Usahawan (Karnival Usahawan), tiga program Transformasi Halal, 21 lawatan kilang, lima seminar dan tiga dialog bersama NGO Bumiputera telah berjaya dilaksanakan.
Bagaimanakah pula program lain?
MITI telah melaksanakan banyak program termasuk program SIFE World Cup 2011, di mana Kuala Lumpur telah terpilih sebagai tuan rumah bagi program ini yang diadakan mulai 3 hingga 5 Oktober 2011. Sejumlah 2,800 pelajar dari 37 negara seluruh dunia menyertai program ini. Negara-negara yang terlibat antaranya ialah Jerman, Amerika Syarikat, Jepun, Korea, negara-negara Afrika seperti Zimbabwe, Afrika Selatan dan juga negara-negara daripada Amerika Selatan dan Timur Tengah.
Adakah MITI akan memperkenalkan program baharu tahun ini?
Program yang dirancang oleh MITI bagi tahun 2012, salah satunya adalah usaha bagi memantau projek rintis di bawah Lab Bumiputera. Sejumlah 20 projek rintis telah dikenalpasti melalui Lab Bumiputera yang dilaksanakan oleh BPU pada 2011. Setakat ini, satu projek rintis MY MRT telah diluluskan oleh Teraju Delivery Committee bagi pelaksanaan 2012. MITI juga dipertanggungjawabkan untuk memantau pelaksanaan projek-projek ini.
Apakah kekangan yang dihadapi oleh MITI dalam melaksanakan program Bumiputera?
Berbeza dengan MECD dahulu, MITI mempunyai peruntukan yang amat terhad sehingga tidak mampu untuk melaksanakan program keusahawanan secara agresif dan memenuhi kehendak pelanggan yang ramai terdiri daripada pelbagai lapisan masyarakat. Sungguhpun begitu, MITI kerap melaksanakan program-program kerjasama dengan pihak-pihak luar seperti dialog, seminar dan latihan serta telah mewujudkan saluran Khidmat Nasihat Keusahawanan melalui Business Advisory Centre (BAC) yang dilancarkan secara rasmi pada 29 Mac 2010.
Sungguhpun begitu, MITI telah memainkan peranan yang agak menonjol berbanding agensi-agensi lain yang juga ‘mewarisi’ peranan dan tanggungjawab berikutan pembubaran MECD.
Apakah hasrat Datuk Seri pada tahun ini?
Sebagai menteri yang bertanggungjawab di dalam hal-hal berkaitan dengan pelaburan dan perdagangan terutamanya, apa jua kami lakukan di MITI, Petunjuk Prestasi Utama (KPI) saya menjurus kepada pelaburan dan perdagangan negara. Paling penting kita dapat menyediakan iklim pelaburan dan perdagangan yang konduksif untuk pelabur-pelabur tempatan dan luar negara sekaligus dapat menjana peluang pekerjaan yang baik dan berkualiti kepada rakyat Malaysia.
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 26 January 2012
afternoon highlight (26/01/12/016/491) GLC patut 'ambil' kuota bumi
GLC patut 'ambil' kuota bumi
KUALA LUMPUR 25 Jan. - Syarikat-syarikat milik kerajaan yang bergiat dalam sektor hartanah dan unit amanah hartanah wajar membeli kediaman kuota Bumiputera untuk mengelak aset berkenaan 'bertukar tangan'.
Pensyarah Kanan Jabatan Pengurusan Hartanah Fakulti Seni Bina, Perancangan dan Ukur Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), Shahrom Md. Ariffin berkata, pendekatan itu dilihat sebagai cara terbaik dan lebih praktikal dalam usaha menyelamat hartanah yang diperuntukan kepada Bumiputera.
Beliau berkata, masalah kediaman tidak terjual itu disebabkan pembeli Bumiputera berminat tetapi masih belum membelinya.
Justeru, katanya, sekiranya kediaman-kediaman berkenaan dibeli oleh GLC , sekurang-kurangnya hak yang diperuntukan kepada Bumiputera terjamin.
''Siapa kata Bumiputera tidak berminat untuk memiliki kediaman, banyak yang masih mencari-cari dengan tumpuan terhad kepada kediaman berkos rendah dan sederhana. Jumlah Bumiputera yang mampu memberi rumah sederhana mewah dan mewah begitu kecil.
''Oleh itu, saya syorkan Permodalan Hartanah Bhd., Permodalan Nasional Bhd., Majlis Amanah Rakyat, AmanahRaya Bhd. atau Lembaga Tabung Haji mengambil alih hartanah-hartanah tersebut.
''Kalau Bumiputera secara individu tidak mampu, saya yakin agensi-agensi ini berupaya kerana mereka memiliki dana yang besar,'' katanya kepada Utusan Malaysia ketika dihubungi di sini hari ini.
Beliau berkata demikian ketika mengulas cadangan Persatuan Pemaju Hartanah dan Perumahan Malaysia (REHDA) supaya status hartanah lot Bumiputera ditukar secara automatik kepada bukan Bumiputera jika gagal dijual dalam tempoh masa tertentu.
Cadangan itu dibuat bagi mengatasi kerugian yang didakwa terpaksa ditanggung oleh pemaju ekoran gagal menjual hartanah berkenaan, selain perlu melunaskan kos tertentu untuk mengubahnya ber dasarkan undang-undang semasa.
Presidennya, Datuk Seri Michael K C Yam berkata, kaji selidik yang dilakukan REHDA mendapati masalah kegagalan menjual hartanah lot Bumiputera merupakan punca paling utama kerugian ditanggung oleh pemaju untuk empat tahun berturut-turut.
Mengulas mengenai tersebut, Shahrom mengakui REHDA tidak boleh dipersalahkan berhubung cadangan yang dilontarkan.
Ini kerana isu berkenaan adalah perkara lapuk yang dibincangkan hampir setiap tahun oleh para pemaju tetapi ia tidak dilihat secara serius oleh mana-mana pihak.
Akibatnya, kata beliau, isu itu bersifat bermusim tanpa tidak diketahui bilakah jalan penyelesaiannya mampu dilaksanakan.
Bagaimanapun, tegas beliau, jalan penyelesaian perlu dilihat secara teliti oleh kerajaan untuk mengelakkan para pemaju hartanah tempatan rugi dan pada waktu yang sama pertahankan hak Bumiputera.
Shahrom menambah, cadangan menukar hak milik hartanah yang diperuntukan itu tidak wajar dipertimbangkan kerana dikhuatiri keistimewaan itu akan hilang secara perlahan-lahan.
''Mekanisme yang betul perlu dibincang, diteliti dan dilaksanakan. Tetapi saya berpendapat kuota kediaman Bumiputera boleh diselamatkan oleh agensi-agensi terbabit,'' katanya.
Beliau berkata, di sebalik tumpuan agensi-agensi berkaitan kepada hartanah komersial, mereka boleh menambah hartanah kediaman sebagai portfolio baharu terutama di kawasan-kawasan utama yang berpotensi besar dan berdaya saing.
''Contohnya di kawasan Mont Kiara dan tengah-tengah kawasan segi tiga emas Kuala Lumpur kerana kediaman di kawasan ini tidak akan jatuh dan baik untuk pelaburan jangka panjang.
''Dengan pembelian kediaman, entiti-entiti terbabit bukan sahaja membantu menangani masalah pemaju, pada masa sama GLC mampu mempertahan dan menyelamatkan hak milik Bumiputera.
''Mungkin kediaman yang mahal itu tidak mampu dimiliki Bumiputera pada masa sekarang, tetapi mungkin boleh dijual pada tahun-tahun mendatang. Siapa tahu ketika itu banyak Bumiputera yang mampu,'' katanya.
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 26 January 2012
KUALA LUMPUR 25 Jan. - Syarikat-syarikat milik kerajaan yang bergiat dalam sektor hartanah dan unit amanah hartanah wajar membeli kediaman kuota Bumiputera untuk mengelak aset berkenaan 'bertukar tangan'.
Pensyarah Kanan Jabatan Pengurusan Hartanah Fakulti Seni Bina, Perancangan dan Ukur Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), Shahrom Md. Ariffin berkata, pendekatan itu dilihat sebagai cara terbaik dan lebih praktikal dalam usaha menyelamat hartanah yang diperuntukan kepada Bumiputera.
Beliau berkata, masalah kediaman tidak terjual itu disebabkan pembeli Bumiputera berminat tetapi masih belum membelinya.
Justeru, katanya, sekiranya kediaman-kediaman berkenaan dibeli oleh GLC , sekurang-kurangnya hak yang diperuntukan kepada Bumiputera terjamin.
''Siapa kata Bumiputera tidak berminat untuk memiliki kediaman, banyak yang masih mencari-cari dengan tumpuan terhad kepada kediaman berkos rendah dan sederhana. Jumlah Bumiputera yang mampu memberi rumah sederhana mewah dan mewah begitu kecil.
''Oleh itu, saya syorkan Permodalan Hartanah Bhd., Permodalan Nasional Bhd., Majlis Amanah Rakyat, AmanahRaya Bhd. atau Lembaga Tabung Haji mengambil alih hartanah-hartanah tersebut.
''Kalau Bumiputera secara individu tidak mampu, saya yakin agensi-agensi ini berupaya kerana mereka memiliki dana yang besar,'' katanya kepada Utusan Malaysia ketika dihubungi di sini hari ini.
Beliau berkata demikian ketika mengulas cadangan Persatuan Pemaju Hartanah dan Perumahan Malaysia (REHDA) supaya status hartanah lot Bumiputera ditukar secara automatik kepada bukan Bumiputera jika gagal dijual dalam tempoh masa tertentu.
Cadangan itu dibuat bagi mengatasi kerugian yang didakwa terpaksa ditanggung oleh pemaju ekoran gagal menjual hartanah berkenaan, selain perlu melunaskan kos tertentu untuk mengubahnya ber dasarkan undang-undang semasa.
Presidennya, Datuk Seri Michael K C Yam berkata, kaji selidik yang dilakukan REHDA mendapati masalah kegagalan menjual hartanah lot Bumiputera merupakan punca paling utama kerugian ditanggung oleh pemaju untuk empat tahun berturut-turut.
Mengulas mengenai tersebut, Shahrom mengakui REHDA tidak boleh dipersalahkan berhubung cadangan yang dilontarkan.
Ini kerana isu berkenaan adalah perkara lapuk yang dibincangkan hampir setiap tahun oleh para pemaju tetapi ia tidak dilihat secara serius oleh mana-mana pihak.
Akibatnya, kata beliau, isu itu bersifat bermusim tanpa tidak diketahui bilakah jalan penyelesaiannya mampu dilaksanakan.
Bagaimanapun, tegas beliau, jalan penyelesaian perlu dilihat secara teliti oleh kerajaan untuk mengelakkan para pemaju hartanah tempatan rugi dan pada waktu yang sama pertahankan hak Bumiputera.
Shahrom menambah, cadangan menukar hak milik hartanah yang diperuntukan itu tidak wajar dipertimbangkan kerana dikhuatiri keistimewaan itu akan hilang secara perlahan-lahan.
''Mekanisme yang betul perlu dibincang, diteliti dan dilaksanakan. Tetapi saya berpendapat kuota kediaman Bumiputera boleh diselamatkan oleh agensi-agensi terbabit,'' katanya.
Beliau berkata, di sebalik tumpuan agensi-agensi berkaitan kepada hartanah komersial, mereka boleh menambah hartanah kediaman sebagai portfolio baharu terutama di kawasan-kawasan utama yang berpotensi besar dan berdaya saing.
''Contohnya di kawasan Mont Kiara dan tengah-tengah kawasan segi tiga emas Kuala Lumpur kerana kediaman di kawasan ini tidak akan jatuh dan baik untuk pelaburan jangka panjang.
''Dengan pembelian kediaman, entiti-entiti terbabit bukan sahaja membantu menangani masalah pemaju, pada masa sama GLC mampu mempertahan dan menyelamatkan hak milik Bumiputera.
''Mungkin kediaman yang mahal itu tidak mampu dimiliki Bumiputera pada masa sekarang, tetapi mungkin boleh dijual pada tahun-tahun mendatang. Siapa tahu ketika itu banyak Bumiputera yang mampu,'' katanya.
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 26 January 2012
Today's Pick (26/01/12/016/708) Peluang usahawan wanita ke pasaran Greece
Peluang usahawan wanita ke pasaran Greece
KUALA LUMPUR 25 Jan. - Sekali lagi Malaysia bakal membuka mata dunia dengan penyertaan yang lebih ramai di Sidang Kemuncak Wanita Global di Greece, yang akan berlangsung pada 31 Mei - 2 Jun 2012. Tahun ini merupakan kali ke-22 forum ekonomi global ini dianjurkan bagi menemukan tokoh serta pemimpin wanita daripada sektor awam dan swasta dalam pelbagai bidang dari seluruh dunia.
Dijangkakan lebih daripada 80 delegasi antarabangsa yang terdiri daripada usahawan wanita, profesional dan pemimpin- pemimpin kerajaan akan mengambil bahagian dalam Sidang Kemuncak Wanita Global 2012 di Greece, dengan bertemakan Women: The Engine of Economic Growth.
Pada tahun lepas, Sidang Kemuncak Wanita Global 2011 telah diadakan pada 5 - 7 Mei 2011 di Istanbul, Turki. Malaysia dihadiri oleh seramai 64 delegasi yang diketuai oleh Datin Seri Paduka Rosmah Mansor. Satu sesi networking di antara usahawan wanita Malaysia dan usahawan wanita Turki turut diadakan dengan penglibatan seramai 35 usahawan wanita Malaysia dan 33 usahawan wanita Turki.
Sesi networking tersebut telah menjadi landasan pertama untuk usahawanita Malaysia dan Turki berkongsi pengalaman, amalan perniagaan terbaik serta maklumat mengenai petua-petua perniagaan terkini. Seramai 69 orang usahawanita telah menyertai sesi tersebut, 35 dari Malaysia dan 34 dari Turki.
Para usahawanita yang hadir dalam sesi tersebut adalah terdiri daripada usahawan wanita dari pelbagai sektor seperti pendidikan, pengiklanan dan media, kesihatan, teknologi maklumat dan tekstil. Maklumbalas daripada peserta menyatakan bahawa mereka berpeluang mengenali, berkongsi pengalaman serta bekerjasama dengan para usahawanita bukan sahaja dari Turki, tetapi juga di kalangan usahawanita Malaysia sendiri
Bagi tahun ini, persidangan berprestij ini akan menyediakan pelbagai aktiviti sepanjang penganjurannya dan antara aktiviti yang disediakan dalam sidang kemuncak ini adalah termasuk Sesi Pra-persidangan meja bulat untuk Women Government Ministers berdialog dengan pemimpin-pemimpin korporat mengenai amalan terbaik di sektor awam/swasta dalam memajukan pertumbuhan ekonomi wanita.
Apa yang lebih menarik di persidangan ini adalah sesi plenari yang membincangkan mengenai arah aliran perniagaan serantau dan global serta strategi praktikal untuk pembangunan perniagaan. Terdapat juga sesi pembangunan Kemahiran yang menyentuh aspek pembangunan kepimpinan, keusahawanan dan isu-isu lain yang dihadapi oleh usahawan wanita abad ini. Peserta juga mempunyai peluang yang luas untuk mengadakan jaringan perniagaan dengan usahawan dari pelbagai negara.
Selain daripada itu, ia juga menawarkan perkongsian maklumat mengenai peluang perniagaan untuk memasuki ekonomi eropah serta bagaimana wanita memacukan pembangunan perniagaan di benua serantau sebagai pengguna dan pemimpin perniagaan. Terdapat juga perkongsian mengenai amalan terbaik di antara kerajaan dan perniagaan untuk memajukan wanita dan mengalakan 'inisiatif hijau' serta peluang menjalankan perniagaan di Greece dan Balkan.
Dengan menyertai sidang kemuncak ini, ianya dapat memberi pendedahan berkesan kepada usahawan wanita Malaysia untuk memupuk hubungan dengan usahawan dari negara lain. Di samping itu, peserta juga dapat mempelajari strategi kreatif, pendekatan terkini, kepakaran, pendapat dan idea dalam pelbagai bidang dengan kehadiran penceramah yang terdiri daripada pemimpin korporat antarabangsa.
Bagi tahun 2013, Malaysia telah dipilih untuk menjadi tuan rumah bagi sidang kemuncak ini. Adalah diharapkan agar Malaysia mampu membuktikan kepada delegasi antarabangsa bahawa Malaysia juga mempunyai pengalaman, kepakaran, prasarana dan kemudahan yang lengkap dalam mengendalikan acara sebegini sekaligus meningkatkan jenama Malaysia di peringkat antarabangsa.
Untuk pertanyaan lanjut mengenai Sidang Kemuncak Wanita Global 2012 di Greece, sila hubungi Cik Murniati Mokhtar di 03-27756000 atau email murniati@smecorp.gov.my
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 26 January 2012
KUALA LUMPUR 25 Jan. - Sekali lagi Malaysia bakal membuka mata dunia dengan penyertaan yang lebih ramai di Sidang Kemuncak Wanita Global di Greece, yang akan berlangsung pada 31 Mei - 2 Jun 2012. Tahun ini merupakan kali ke-22 forum ekonomi global ini dianjurkan bagi menemukan tokoh serta pemimpin wanita daripada sektor awam dan swasta dalam pelbagai bidang dari seluruh dunia.
Dijangkakan lebih daripada 80 delegasi antarabangsa yang terdiri daripada usahawan wanita, profesional dan pemimpin- pemimpin kerajaan akan mengambil bahagian dalam Sidang Kemuncak Wanita Global 2012 di Greece, dengan bertemakan Women: The Engine of Economic Growth.
Pada tahun lepas, Sidang Kemuncak Wanita Global 2011 telah diadakan pada 5 - 7 Mei 2011 di Istanbul, Turki. Malaysia dihadiri oleh seramai 64 delegasi yang diketuai oleh Datin Seri Paduka Rosmah Mansor. Satu sesi networking di antara usahawan wanita Malaysia dan usahawan wanita Turki turut diadakan dengan penglibatan seramai 35 usahawan wanita Malaysia dan 33 usahawan wanita Turki.
Sesi networking tersebut telah menjadi landasan pertama untuk usahawanita Malaysia dan Turki berkongsi pengalaman, amalan perniagaan terbaik serta maklumat mengenai petua-petua perniagaan terkini. Seramai 69 orang usahawanita telah menyertai sesi tersebut, 35 dari Malaysia dan 34 dari Turki.
Para usahawanita yang hadir dalam sesi tersebut adalah terdiri daripada usahawan wanita dari pelbagai sektor seperti pendidikan, pengiklanan dan media, kesihatan, teknologi maklumat dan tekstil. Maklumbalas daripada peserta menyatakan bahawa mereka berpeluang mengenali, berkongsi pengalaman serta bekerjasama dengan para usahawanita bukan sahaja dari Turki, tetapi juga di kalangan usahawanita Malaysia sendiri
Bagi tahun ini, persidangan berprestij ini akan menyediakan pelbagai aktiviti sepanjang penganjurannya dan antara aktiviti yang disediakan dalam sidang kemuncak ini adalah termasuk Sesi Pra-persidangan meja bulat untuk Women Government Ministers berdialog dengan pemimpin-pemimpin korporat mengenai amalan terbaik di sektor awam/swasta dalam memajukan pertumbuhan ekonomi wanita.
Apa yang lebih menarik di persidangan ini adalah sesi plenari yang membincangkan mengenai arah aliran perniagaan serantau dan global serta strategi praktikal untuk pembangunan perniagaan. Terdapat juga sesi pembangunan Kemahiran yang menyentuh aspek pembangunan kepimpinan, keusahawanan dan isu-isu lain yang dihadapi oleh usahawan wanita abad ini. Peserta juga mempunyai peluang yang luas untuk mengadakan jaringan perniagaan dengan usahawan dari pelbagai negara.
Selain daripada itu, ia juga menawarkan perkongsian maklumat mengenai peluang perniagaan untuk memasuki ekonomi eropah serta bagaimana wanita memacukan pembangunan perniagaan di benua serantau sebagai pengguna dan pemimpin perniagaan. Terdapat juga perkongsian mengenai amalan terbaik di antara kerajaan dan perniagaan untuk memajukan wanita dan mengalakan 'inisiatif hijau' serta peluang menjalankan perniagaan di Greece dan Balkan.
Dengan menyertai sidang kemuncak ini, ianya dapat memberi pendedahan berkesan kepada usahawan wanita Malaysia untuk memupuk hubungan dengan usahawan dari negara lain. Di samping itu, peserta juga dapat mempelajari strategi kreatif, pendekatan terkini, kepakaran, pendapat dan idea dalam pelbagai bidang dengan kehadiran penceramah yang terdiri daripada pemimpin korporat antarabangsa.
Bagi tahun 2013, Malaysia telah dipilih untuk menjadi tuan rumah bagi sidang kemuncak ini. Adalah diharapkan agar Malaysia mampu membuktikan kepada delegasi antarabangsa bahawa Malaysia juga mempunyai pengalaman, kepakaran, prasarana dan kemudahan yang lengkap dalam mengendalikan acara sebegini sekaligus meningkatkan jenama Malaysia di peringkat antarabangsa.
Untuk pertanyaan lanjut mengenai Sidang Kemuncak Wanita Global 2012 di Greece, sila hubungi Cik Murniati Mokhtar di 03-27756000 atau email murniati@smecorp.gov.my
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 26 January 2012
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
afternoon highlight (25/01/12/015/490) Sekretariat khas perkukuh agenda TERAJU
Sekretariat khas perkukuh agenda TERAJU
Tubuh TERAJU@KORIDOR mantap strategi serampang 3 mata UNIT Peneraju Agenda Bumiputera (TERAJU) akan menubuhkan sekretariat khas di semua koridor pembangunan di negara ini sebagai strategi serampang tiga mata untuk memantapkan lagi agenda pengukuhan ekonomi Bumiputera tahun ini.
Penubuhan sekretariat itu bermatlamat untuk memberi penerangan lanjut kepada masyarakat mengenai program sedia ada yang dikendalikannya dan membentuk kerjasama dengan pihak berkuasa tempatan bagi melahirkan lebih banyak inisiatif baru kepada Bumiputera.
Ia juga akan mencari beberapa syarikat berpotensi untuk diserap di bawah program Perusahaan Kecil dan Sederhana Bumiputera Berprestasi Tinggi (TERAS).
Unit di bawah Jabatan Perdana Menteri itu akan menubuhkan sekretariat tetapnya di Wilayah Pembangunan Iskandar, Wilayah Ekonomi Koridor Utara (NCER), Wilayah Ekonomi Pantai Timur (ECER), Koridor Sarawak Bagi Tenaga Boleh Diperbaharui (SCORE) dan Koridor Pembangunan Sabah (SDC).
Ketua Eksekutifnya, Husni Salleh, berkata sekretariat itu yang akan dikenali sebagai TERAJU@KORIDOR membolehkan TERAJU bekerjasama rapat dengan kerajaan negeri serta pihak berkuasa tempatan untuk meninjau mana-mana peluang pertumbuhan di wilayah pembangunan terbabit yang boleh dimanfaatkan syarikat Bumiputera.
“Selepas setahun ditubuhkan, TERAJU kini sudah mempunyai program sendiri yang akan diterapkan kepada kumpulan sasar.
“Perancangan tidak semestinya dibuat pada peringkat Persekutuan, malah ia akan dikembangkan pada peringkat negeri, justeru kami mengenal pasti potensi koridor pembangunan negara sebagai antara pemangkin kepada pelaksanaan semua program itu,” katanya ketika ditemui Berita Harian di Petaling Jaya, baru-baru ini. TERAJU akan genap setahun beroperasi 8 Februari ini.
Buat masa ini, unit itu menyandarkan kepada tiga inisiatif utamanya iaitu TERAS, Dana Mudahcara dan Dana Yayasan Peneraju Pendidikan. TERAJU juga membentuk 53 inisiatif kecil hasil daripada pelaksanaan makmal pembangunan Bumiputera tahun lalu, yang hampir separuh daripada inisiatif berkenaan mula dilaksanakan.
Mengenai perkembangan TERAS, Husni berkata, pihaknya telah menghantar senarai kumpulan pertama 30 syarikat Bumiputera dalam program itu kepada kumpulan berkepentingan yang dapat menyokong agenda menjadikannya kumpulan syarikat berdaya maju di peringkat domestik dan antara-bangsa.
Senarai syarikat itu, katanya, telah dihantar kepada bahagian pemerolehan di Kementerian Kewangan, syarikat berkaitan kerajaan (GLC), syarikat senaraian awam utama negara, agensi yang mengendalikan dana pemudah cara serta kerajaan negeri.
Source : Berita Harian
Date : 23 January 2012
Tubuh TERAJU@KORIDOR mantap strategi serampang 3 mata UNIT Peneraju Agenda Bumiputera (TERAJU) akan menubuhkan sekretariat khas di semua koridor pembangunan di negara ini sebagai strategi serampang tiga mata untuk memantapkan lagi agenda pengukuhan ekonomi Bumiputera tahun ini.
Penubuhan sekretariat itu bermatlamat untuk memberi penerangan lanjut kepada masyarakat mengenai program sedia ada yang dikendalikannya dan membentuk kerjasama dengan pihak berkuasa tempatan bagi melahirkan lebih banyak inisiatif baru kepada Bumiputera.
Ia juga akan mencari beberapa syarikat berpotensi untuk diserap di bawah program Perusahaan Kecil dan Sederhana Bumiputera Berprestasi Tinggi (TERAS).
Unit di bawah Jabatan Perdana Menteri itu akan menubuhkan sekretariat tetapnya di Wilayah Pembangunan Iskandar, Wilayah Ekonomi Koridor Utara (NCER), Wilayah Ekonomi Pantai Timur (ECER), Koridor Sarawak Bagi Tenaga Boleh Diperbaharui (SCORE) dan Koridor Pembangunan Sabah (SDC).
Ketua Eksekutifnya, Husni Salleh, berkata sekretariat itu yang akan dikenali sebagai TERAJU@KORIDOR membolehkan TERAJU bekerjasama rapat dengan kerajaan negeri serta pihak berkuasa tempatan untuk meninjau mana-mana peluang pertumbuhan di wilayah pembangunan terbabit yang boleh dimanfaatkan syarikat Bumiputera.
“Selepas setahun ditubuhkan, TERAJU kini sudah mempunyai program sendiri yang akan diterapkan kepada kumpulan sasar.
“Perancangan tidak semestinya dibuat pada peringkat Persekutuan, malah ia akan dikembangkan pada peringkat negeri, justeru kami mengenal pasti potensi koridor pembangunan negara sebagai antara pemangkin kepada pelaksanaan semua program itu,” katanya ketika ditemui Berita Harian di Petaling Jaya, baru-baru ini. TERAJU akan genap setahun beroperasi 8 Februari ini.
Buat masa ini, unit itu menyandarkan kepada tiga inisiatif utamanya iaitu TERAS, Dana Mudahcara dan Dana Yayasan Peneraju Pendidikan. TERAJU juga membentuk 53 inisiatif kecil hasil daripada pelaksanaan makmal pembangunan Bumiputera tahun lalu, yang hampir separuh daripada inisiatif berkenaan mula dilaksanakan.
Mengenai perkembangan TERAS, Husni berkata, pihaknya telah menghantar senarai kumpulan pertama 30 syarikat Bumiputera dalam program itu kepada kumpulan berkepentingan yang dapat menyokong agenda menjadikannya kumpulan syarikat berdaya maju di peringkat domestik dan antara-bangsa.
Senarai syarikat itu, katanya, telah dihantar kepada bahagian pemerolehan di Kementerian Kewangan, syarikat berkaitan kerajaan (GLC), syarikat senaraian awam utama negara, agensi yang mengendalikan dana pemudah cara serta kerajaan negeri.
Source : Berita Harian
Date : 23 January 2012
Today's Pick (25/01/12/015/707) EKUINAS perluas sektor makanan, minuman
EKUINAS perluas sektor makanan, minuman
Ambil alih rangkaian restoran milik Revenue Valley
Ekuiti Nasional Bhd (EKUINAS), pengurus dana ekuiti persendirian milik kerajaan mengembangkan pelaburannya dalam sektor makanan dan minuman (F&B) dengan membeli 85.76 peratus kepentingan dalam Kumpulan Revenue Valley, sebuah syarikat F&B yang sedang pesat berkembang di Malaysia dan Singapura, membabitkan pelaburan RM64.7 juta.
Revenue Valley adalah pemilik dan pengurus rangkaian francais restoran Manhattan Fish Market, Tony Roma’s Malaysia dan Popeyes.
Dana persendirian itu dalam kenyataannya berkata, pelaburan itu adalah sebahagian strategi EKUINAS untuk membentuk sebuah Kumpulan F&B Malaysia terkemuka yang mempunyai portfolio jenama F&B tempatan dan global merangkumi semua segmen pasaran.
Katanya, pelaburan itu membabitkan pembelian ekuiti daripada pemegang saham sedia ada Revenue Valley, terutama Sweet Benefit Sdn Bhd dan Creative Goal Sdn Bhd, serta suntikan modal tambahan bagi membiayai program penambahan cawangan secara agresif.
Cadangan pelaburan itu adalah tertakluk kepada syarat terdahulu dan dijangka dimuktamadkan suku pertama 2012, katanya.
Manhattan Fish Market adalah restoran makanan laut kasual popular, manakala Tony Roma’s Malaysia ialah restoran layanan penuh (FSR) kasual yang terkenal dengan menu stik dan daging rusuk, sementara Popeyes adalah rangkaian restoran layanan pantas (QSR) yang menawarkan hidangan sajian ayam dan makanan laut yang beroperasi di Malaysia dan Singapura.
Revenue Valley ditubuhkan pada 2002 oleh usahawan George Ang dan Dickson Low, yang mana selepas kemasukan EKUINAS itu akan kekal dalam syarikat sebagai pemegang saham minoriti.
Ia berkembang pesat sehingga kini dengan 47 cawangan merangkumi ketiga-tiga jenama di Malaysia, Singapura dan Thailand, selain bakal memperkenalkan jenamanya ke seluruh rantau ini dan peringkat global.
Kumpulan terbabit mencatatkan jualan hampir RM100 juta bagi tahun kewangannya berakhir 30 September 2010.
Pengerusi EKUINAS Tan Sri Raja Arshad Raja Tun Uda dalam kenyataan mengumumkan pelaburan itu berkata, menerusi pelaburan itu, EKUINAS sudah membuat lapan pelaburan setakat ini sekali gus memperluaskan portfolio F&B kepada lima jenama popular dengan jumlah jualan terkumpul mencecah hampir RM200 juta menerusi 97 cawangan seluruh Malaysia, Singapura dan Thailand.
Setakat ini, katanya, jumlah komitmen pelaburan EKUINAS adalah sebanyak RM659.64 juta, selain membantu kemasukan modal menerusi rakan pelaburnya yang berjumlah RM779.28 juta ke dalam ekonomi Malaysia.
“Kami gembira dengan pelaburan di dalam Kumpulan Revenue Valley kerana ini dapat mengukuhkan lagi rancangan kami untuk membina sebuah kumpulan F&B ternama di Malaysia dengan portfolio pelaburan yang merangkumi pelbagai jenama.
“Dengan lebih 20 cawangan restoran di Singapura dan Thailand, Kumpulan Revenue Valley serta-merta menempatkan kami di pasaran serantau dan berupaya menjadi pemangkin bagi pelan perkembangan Kumpulan F&B EKUINAS pada masa depan,” katanya.
Raja Arshad berkata, pelaburan terbaru ini adalah susulan kepada pelaburan EKUINAS sebelum ini dalam rangkaian francais restoran makanan segera, Burger King dan San Francisco Coffee.
Sementara itu, Ketua Eksekutif EKUINAS, Datuk Abdul Rahman Ahmad berkata, Kumpulan Revenue Valley adalah syarikat berpotensi tinggi dengan kumpulan pengurusan mantap selain mempunyai rekod prestasi kukuh dalam penjanaan pertumbuhan.
“Dengan memiliki lima jenama di bawah Kumpulan F&B kami, EKUINAS berpeluang memanfaatkan sinergi seluruh rangkaian dari segi perkembangan cawangan, pemasaran dan komunikasi, serta operasi pentadbiran,” katanya.
Source : Berita Harian
Date : 20 January 2012
Ambil alih rangkaian restoran milik Revenue Valley
Ekuiti Nasional Bhd (EKUINAS), pengurus dana ekuiti persendirian milik kerajaan mengembangkan pelaburannya dalam sektor makanan dan minuman (F&B) dengan membeli 85.76 peratus kepentingan dalam Kumpulan Revenue Valley, sebuah syarikat F&B yang sedang pesat berkembang di Malaysia dan Singapura, membabitkan pelaburan RM64.7 juta.
Revenue Valley adalah pemilik dan pengurus rangkaian francais restoran Manhattan Fish Market, Tony Roma’s Malaysia dan Popeyes.
Dana persendirian itu dalam kenyataannya berkata, pelaburan itu adalah sebahagian strategi EKUINAS untuk membentuk sebuah Kumpulan F&B Malaysia terkemuka yang mempunyai portfolio jenama F&B tempatan dan global merangkumi semua segmen pasaran.
Katanya, pelaburan itu membabitkan pembelian ekuiti daripada pemegang saham sedia ada Revenue Valley, terutama Sweet Benefit Sdn Bhd dan Creative Goal Sdn Bhd, serta suntikan modal tambahan bagi membiayai program penambahan cawangan secara agresif.
Cadangan pelaburan itu adalah tertakluk kepada syarat terdahulu dan dijangka dimuktamadkan suku pertama 2012, katanya.
Manhattan Fish Market adalah restoran makanan laut kasual popular, manakala Tony Roma’s Malaysia ialah restoran layanan penuh (FSR) kasual yang terkenal dengan menu stik dan daging rusuk, sementara Popeyes adalah rangkaian restoran layanan pantas (QSR) yang menawarkan hidangan sajian ayam dan makanan laut yang beroperasi di Malaysia dan Singapura.
Revenue Valley ditubuhkan pada 2002 oleh usahawan George Ang dan Dickson Low, yang mana selepas kemasukan EKUINAS itu akan kekal dalam syarikat sebagai pemegang saham minoriti.
Ia berkembang pesat sehingga kini dengan 47 cawangan merangkumi ketiga-tiga jenama di Malaysia, Singapura dan Thailand, selain bakal memperkenalkan jenamanya ke seluruh rantau ini dan peringkat global.
Kumpulan terbabit mencatatkan jualan hampir RM100 juta bagi tahun kewangannya berakhir 30 September 2010.
Pengerusi EKUINAS Tan Sri Raja Arshad Raja Tun Uda dalam kenyataan mengumumkan pelaburan itu berkata, menerusi pelaburan itu, EKUINAS sudah membuat lapan pelaburan setakat ini sekali gus memperluaskan portfolio F&B kepada lima jenama popular dengan jumlah jualan terkumpul mencecah hampir RM200 juta menerusi 97 cawangan seluruh Malaysia, Singapura dan Thailand.
Setakat ini, katanya, jumlah komitmen pelaburan EKUINAS adalah sebanyak RM659.64 juta, selain membantu kemasukan modal menerusi rakan pelaburnya yang berjumlah RM779.28 juta ke dalam ekonomi Malaysia.
“Kami gembira dengan pelaburan di dalam Kumpulan Revenue Valley kerana ini dapat mengukuhkan lagi rancangan kami untuk membina sebuah kumpulan F&B ternama di Malaysia dengan portfolio pelaburan yang merangkumi pelbagai jenama.
“Dengan lebih 20 cawangan restoran di Singapura dan Thailand, Kumpulan Revenue Valley serta-merta menempatkan kami di pasaran serantau dan berupaya menjadi pemangkin bagi pelan perkembangan Kumpulan F&B EKUINAS pada masa depan,” katanya.
Raja Arshad berkata, pelaburan terbaru ini adalah susulan kepada pelaburan EKUINAS sebelum ini dalam rangkaian francais restoran makanan segera, Burger King dan San Francisco Coffee.
Sementara itu, Ketua Eksekutif EKUINAS, Datuk Abdul Rahman Ahmad berkata, Kumpulan Revenue Valley adalah syarikat berpotensi tinggi dengan kumpulan pengurusan mantap selain mempunyai rekod prestasi kukuh dalam penjanaan pertumbuhan.
“Dengan memiliki lima jenama di bawah Kumpulan F&B kami, EKUINAS berpeluang memanfaatkan sinergi seluruh rangkaian dari segi perkembangan cawangan, pemasaran dan komunikasi, serta operasi pentadbiran,” katanya.
Source : Berita Harian
Date : 20 January 2012
afternoon highlight (20/01/12/014/489) Mier raises growth forecast for 2011 to 4.9pc
Mier raises growth forecast for 2011 to 4.9pc
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Institute of Economic Research (Mier) has raised its growth forecast of Malaysia for 2011 to 4.9 per cent from 4.6 per cent previously.
Executive director Dr Zakariah Abdul Rashid, however, expects 2012 to hold dimmer growth prospects compared to 2011.
These are underpinned by downside risks from developments in the euro zone, weak US recovery, hard-landing of the Chinese economy and growing Middle East tensions.
Speaking at a media briefing on the fourth quarter 2011 performance, yesterday, Zakariah said Mier's results of various indices showed that the Malaysian economy was already in a contractionary mode.
"We can only conclude that fourth quarter 2011 real GDP (gross domestic product) growth moderated both year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter and that economic growth will likely get bumpier in the months ahead.
"The results of Mier's fourth-quarter Business Conditions Survey indicate declining manufacturing sector sentiments.
The business conditions index ended below the 100-point threshold level while consumer sentiments have also fallen during the fourth quarter, which indicates a marginal worsening of sentiments.
Its CEO Confidence Index, which compiles opinions and projections from chief executives of mostly small- and medium-sized companies, also ended the fourth quarter below the 100-point threshold level.
They were pessimistic about the near-term economic outlook.
Zakariah said big-ticket items are being postponed as the business community preferred to wait and see the general election results before proceeding.
Mier expects the economy to decelerate markedly to 3.7 per cent in 2012.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 20 January 2012
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Institute of Economic Research (Mier) has raised its growth forecast of Malaysia for 2011 to 4.9 per cent from 4.6 per cent previously.
Executive director Dr Zakariah Abdul Rashid, however, expects 2012 to hold dimmer growth prospects compared to 2011.
These are underpinned by downside risks from developments in the euro zone, weak US recovery, hard-landing of the Chinese economy and growing Middle East tensions.
Speaking at a media briefing on the fourth quarter 2011 performance, yesterday, Zakariah said Mier's results of various indices showed that the Malaysian economy was already in a contractionary mode.
"We can only conclude that fourth quarter 2011 real GDP (gross domestic product) growth moderated both year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter and that economic growth will likely get bumpier in the months ahead.
"The results of Mier's fourth-quarter Business Conditions Survey indicate declining manufacturing sector sentiments.
The business conditions index ended below the 100-point threshold level while consumer sentiments have also fallen during the fourth quarter, which indicates a marginal worsening of sentiments.
Its CEO Confidence Index, which compiles opinions and projections from chief executives of mostly small- and medium-sized companies, also ended the fourth quarter below the 100-point threshold level.
They were pessimistic about the near-term economic outlook.
Zakariah said big-ticket items are being postponed as the business community preferred to wait and see the general election results before proceeding.
Mier expects the economy to decelerate markedly to 3.7 per cent in 2012.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 20 January 2012
Today's Pick (20/01/12/014/706) MCCM: RM1b fund to be ready this year
MCCM: RM1b fund to be ready this year
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia (MCCM) aims to mobilise a RM1 billion investment fund for the development of entrepreneurship, especially among the Bumiputeras and Malays, its president Syed Ali Alatas said.
"We expect to have the fund ready within this year. We have already drawn up a working paper and hope to complete the proposal within two weeks," Syed Ali told reporters here yesterday.
He said the chamber is currently finalising the mechanism and structure of the proposed fund, including identify who is the best to manage the fund.
"Twelve years ago, the chamber and various non-governmental organisations and associations have managed to raise RM700 milllion to invest in Dana Johor within 15 months.
"But somehow, we (those who chipped in to collect RM700 million) have not gained any returns. Where has the money gone to?" he questioned.
It was learnt that Dana Johor, which is under Johor Corp, has incurred heavy losses.
As such, Syed Ali said the chamber needs to find the best people to manage its proposed fund for entrepreneurs.
"We need to be very careful, so as not to be trapped in hiring corrupted or irresponsible managers," he said, in reference to the current situation in several government-linked companies and government agencies.
In this regard, Syed Ali has called on the agencies and GLCs to refocus or revert to their original objectives and roles in helping to develop entrepeneurship among the Bumiputeras.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 20 January 2012
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia (MCCM) aims to mobilise a RM1 billion investment fund for the development of entrepreneurship, especially among the Bumiputeras and Malays, its president Syed Ali Alatas said.
"We expect to have the fund ready within this year. We have already drawn up a working paper and hope to complete the proposal within two weeks," Syed Ali told reporters here yesterday.
He said the chamber is currently finalising the mechanism and structure of the proposed fund, including identify who is the best to manage the fund.
"Twelve years ago, the chamber and various non-governmental organisations and associations have managed to raise RM700 milllion to invest in Dana Johor within 15 months.
"But somehow, we (those who chipped in to collect RM700 million) have not gained any returns. Where has the money gone to?" he questioned.
It was learnt that Dana Johor, which is under Johor Corp, has incurred heavy losses.
As such, Syed Ali said the chamber needs to find the best people to manage its proposed fund for entrepreneurs.
"We need to be very careful, so as not to be trapped in hiring corrupted or irresponsible managers," he said, in reference to the current situation in several government-linked companies and government agencies.
In this regard, Syed Ali has called on the agencies and GLCs to refocus or revert to their original objectives and roles in helping to develop entrepeneurship among the Bumiputeras.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 20 January 2012
Thursday, January 19, 2012
afternoon highlight (19/01/12/013/488) M'sian firms miss opportunities by avoiding international fairs
M'sian firms miss opportunities by avoiding international fairs
FRANKFURT: Frankfurt-based Matrade senior trade commissioner Sabri Abdul Rahman is disappointed that Malaysian companies are missing out on the “big opportunities” by not showcasing their products at international trade fairs that provide an excellent window to the world market.
He cited the just-concluded HeimTextil Fair of Frankfurt, the world’s biggest trade fair for the home-textile industry, where Malaysians had lost “big opportunities”.
“It is here (in Frankfurt) that buyers from around the world, and not just from Germany, descend on the HeimTextil fair to buy from the entire world.
"Asian companies make a beeline here to vie for international buyers,” he told BERNAMA while taking stock of the just-ended Heimtextil Fair, which saw large contingents of exhibitors from Asian countries.
Sabri was particularly concerned by the fact that Malaysians were not strengthening their marketing efforts by participating in specialised trade fairs following strong exports growth registered by Malaysia’s textile and clothing industry.
Malaysia’s global textile and clothing exports totalled RM9.872 billion between January and November last year, up 4.3 per cent, over RM8.455 billion in 2010.
Textile and clothing exports to Germany surged to RM404 million last year, up 43.1 per cent as compared to RM282 million in 2010.
"Such growth can be sustained only by flanking marketing efforts, including participating in trade fairs and exhibitions, which are excellent marketing tools,” Sabri said.
Malaysia’s absence at the Heimtextil Fair was conspicuous as exhibitors from a number of Asean member countries made a strong pitch for their products at the fair. - BERNAMA
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 18 January 2012
afternoon highlight (19/01/12/013/488)
FRANKFURT: Frankfurt-based Matrade senior trade commissioner Sabri Abdul Rahman is disappointed that Malaysian companies are missing out on the “big opportunities” by not showcasing their products at international trade fairs that provide an excellent window to the world market.
He cited the just-concluded HeimTextil Fair of Frankfurt, the world’s biggest trade fair for the home-textile industry, where Malaysians had lost “big opportunities”.
“It is here (in Frankfurt) that buyers from around the world, and not just from Germany, descend on the HeimTextil fair to buy from the entire world.
"Asian companies make a beeline here to vie for international buyers,” he told BERNAMA while taking stock of the just-ended Heimtextil Fair, which saw large contingents of exhibitors from Asian countries.
Sabri was particularly concerned by the fact that Malaysians were not strengthening their marketing efforts by participating in specialised trade fairs following strong exports growth registered by Malaysia’s textile and clothing industry.
Malaysia’s global textile and clothing exports totalled RM9.872 billion between January and November last year, up 4.3 per cent, over RM8.455 billion in 2010.
Textile and clothing exports to Germany surged to RM404 million last year, up 43.1 per cent as compared to RM282 million in 2010.
"Such growth can be sustained only by flanking marketing efforts, including participating in trade fairs and exhibitions, which are excellent marketing tools,” Sabri said.
Malaysia’s absence at the Heimtextil Fair was conspicuous as exhibitors from a number of Asean member countries made a strong pitch for their products at the fair. - BERNAMA
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 18 January 2012
afternoon highlight (19/01/12/013/488)
Today's Pick (19/01/12/013/705) Malaysia in talks with eco-friendly carmakers
Malaysia in talks with eco-friendly carmakers
The Malaysian government is in the midst of negotations with foreign car makers for the latter to set up electric and hybrid vehicle assembly and distribution points here, says Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir.
He said this is in line with the government's aspiration to transform Malaysia into an electric and hybrid vehicle hub in the region.
"The discussion is at several stages and we will wait for the respective companies to make the announcement, some companies are serious and some want to think about the idea.
"The manufacturers are from many countries, but I cannot reveal the details for now," he told reporters after launching the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics Showcase in Kuala Lumpur today.
Mukhriz said there were issues during the negotations such as whether the Malaysian market is big enough for the companies to come here.
"We are trying to look at it from the standpoint of the Asean market rather than just the Malaysian market alone," he added.
He said the government is also talking to several automotive parts and component makers to establish their plant here.
"We understand also that there are a number of different components in the car manufacturing industry including in the hybrid business.
"So once we are talking wih the automotive sector, we are also talking to the parts and components suppliers to convince them to look at Malaysia as a serious destination for their investment while at the same time supporting the industry as a whole," he said.
Mukhriz said it is very encouraging to learn that more Malaysians are taking the effort to reduce carbon emissions by buying electric and hybrid cars, adding this will be another reason for foreign car makers to invest in Malaysia.
Asked on the future of Proton Holdings Bhd's electric vehicle initiative once foreign auto companies enter the local market, Mukhriz said the national auto maker has its own niche in the hearts of Malaysians as well as the local automotive segment.
"I am quite confident that Proton has an advantage in terms of proximity and reliability as the green auto market is not as mature as other segments of the economy yet.
"Proton will come out with competitive cars and they will also have a major role in realising Malaysia's aim of reducing carbon emissions," he said. -- BERNAMA
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 18 January 2012
Today's Pick (19/01/12/013/705)
The Malaysian government is in the midst of negotations with foreign car makers for the latter to set up electric and hybrid vehicle assembly and distribution points here, says Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir.
He said this is in line with the government's aspiration to transform Malaysia into an electric and hybrid vehicle hub in the region.
"The discussion is at several stages and we will wait for the respective companies to make the announcement, some companies are serious and some want to think about the idea.
"The manufacturers are from many countries, but I cannot reveal the details for now," he told reporters after launching the BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics Showcase in Kuala Lumpur today.
Mukhriz said there were issues during the negotations such as whether the Malaysian market is big enough for the companies to come here.
"We are trying to look at it from the standpoint of the Asean market rather than just the Malaysian market alone," he added.
He said the government is also talking to several automotive parts and component makers to establish their plant here.
"We understand also that there are a number of different components in the car manufacturing industry including in the hybrid business.
"So once we are talking wih the automotive sector, we are also talking to the parts and components suppliers to convince them to look at Malaysia as a serious destination for their investment while at the same time supporting the industry as a whole," he said.
Mukhriz said it is very encouraging to learn that more Malaysians are taking the effort to reduce carbon emissions by buying electric and hybrid cars, adding this will be another reason for foreign car makers to invest in Malaysia.
Asked on the future of Proton Holdings Bhd's electric vehicle initiative once foreign auto companies enter the local market, Mukhriz said the national auto maker has its own niche in the hearts of Malaysians as well as the local automotive segment.
"I am quite confident that Proton has an advantage in terms of proximity and reliability as the green auto market is not as mature as other segments of the economy yet.
"Proton will come out with competitive cars and they will also have a major role in realising Malaysia's aim of reducing carbon emissions," he said. -- BERNAMA
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 18 January 2012
Today's Pick (19/01/12/013/705)
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
afternoon highlight (18/01/12/012/487) Vehicle sales down last year, record seen this year
Vehicle sales down last year, record seen this year
PETALING JAYA: Total vehicle sales reached 599,877 units last year, a 0.9% decline from 2010's all-time high of 605,156 units, due to the impact from the Japanese earthquake and floods in Thailand, according to the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).
“As a result of the two natural disasters, sales of vehicles were lower during the second and fourth quarters of 2011 compared with similar corresponding periods in 2010,” MAA president Datuk Aishah Ahmad told a briefing yesterday.
However, she is optimistic of this year's outlook.
Passenger vehicle sales slipped 1.6% last year to 535,112 units from 543,594 units in 2010, while sales of commercial vehicles grew 5.2% to 64,765 units from 61,562 units in 2010.
Perodua sold the most vehicles last year with 179,989 units, maintaining its top position with a 30% market share of the total vehicle market. Proton maintained its second position with 158,657 units, accounting for 26.4% of the total vehicle market.
This was followed by Toyota and Honda, which sold 86,951 units (14.5%) and 32,480 units (5.4%) respectively. The fifth position was maintained by Nissan, with 32,276 units (5.4%) sold.
Total hybrid vehicles jumped over 2,000% to 8,334 units in 2011 from 328 units a year earlier, due to the ongoing excise duty exemptions on such vehicles.
Honda recorded a surge in hybrid vehicle sales to 4,596 units from 129 units in 2010, while Toyota sold 2,457 units versus 198 units previously. Lexus sold 1,267 units compared with just one unit previously. Porsche, meanwhile, sold 14 units last year.
“This year, sales of hybrid vehicles will grow further as more models are introduced. There are also one or two companies that are planning to introduce hybrids,” said Aishah.
As for its outlook on the automotive industry for 2012, the MAA has forecast total industry volume increasing 2.5% to 615,000 units.
Aishah said consumer confidence was expected to remain relatively high, owing to greater stability in the employment market.
“The extension of tax incentives for hybrids and electric vehicles to December 2013 under Budget 2012 would help to promote greater demand for the energy-efficient and eco-friendly vehicles,” she said, adding that the introduction of new and exciting models would generate interest.
Aishah said total vehicle sales in January would be boosted by promotional campaigns by car companies and the rush for deliveries for the Chinese New Year festival.
Source: The Star
Date: 18 January 2012
PETALING JAYA: Total vehicle sales reached 599,877 units last year, a 0.9% decline from 2010's all-time high of 605,156 units, due to the impact from the Japanese earthquake and floods in Thailand, according to the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).
“As a result of the two natural disasters, sales of vehicles were lower during the second and fourth quarters of 2011 compared with similar corresponding periods in 2010,” MAA president Datuk Aishah Ahmad told a briefing yesterday.
However, she is optimistic of this year's outlook.
Passenger vehicle sales slipped 1.6% last year to 535,112 units from 543,594 units in 2010, while sales of commercial vehicles grew 5.2% to 64,765 units from 61,562 units in 2010.
Perodua sold the most vehicles last year with 179,989 units, maintaining its top position with a 30% market share of the total vehicle market. Proton maintained its second position with 158,657 units, accounting for 26.4% of the total vehicle market.
This was followed by Toyota and Honda, which sold 86,951 units (14.5%) and 32,480 units (5.4%) respectively. The fifth position was maintained by Nissan, with 32,276 units (5.4%) sold.
Total hybrid vehicles jumped over 2,000% to 8,334 units in 2011 from 328 units a year earlier, due to the ongoing excise duty exemptions on such vehicles.
Honda recorded a surge in hybrid vehicle sales to 4,596 units from 129 units in 2010, while Toyota sold 2,457 units versus 198 units previously. Lexus sold 1,267 units compared with just one unit previously. Porsche, meanwhile, sold 14 units last year.
“This year, sales of hybrid vehicles will grow further as more models are introduced. There are also one or two companies that are planning to introduce hybrids,” said Aishah.
As for its outlook on the automotive industry for 2012, the MAA has forecast total industry volume increasing 2.5% to 615,000 units.
Aishah said consumer confidence was expected to remain relatively high, owing to greater stability in the employment market.
“The extension of tax incentives for hybrids and electric vehicles to December 2013 under Budget 2012 would help to promote greater demand for the energy-efficient and eco-friendly vehicles,” she said, adding that the introduction of new and exciting models would generate interest.
Aishah said total vehicle sales in January would be boosted by promotional campaigns by car companies and the rush for deliveries for the Chinese New Year festival.
Source: The Star
Date: 18 January 2012
Today's Pick (18/01/12/012/702) MCA offers RM40m in loans for youths to boost business
MCA offers RM40m in loans for youths to boost business
KUALA LUMPUR: As the Year of the Dragon marches in, MCA is offering a RM40mil micro credit packet to Malaysians regardless of race or creed and across the political divide.
Under the scheme to be managed by MCA-controlled Koperasi Jayadiri Malaysia Bhd and Koperasi Serbaguna Malaysia, loan applicants must be between 21 and 45 years of age and the money should be used to start or augment a business.
The maximum loan under the 1MCA Micro Credit For Youth package is RM20,000 payable within five years at 7% interest, party president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek said.
“We decided to introduce the scheme because we realise that it is difficult for young people with no experience or with small businesses to access credit,” Dr Chua told reporters after chairing the MCA presidential council meeting here yesterday.
He said single parents and those attached to non-governmental organisations and political parties of all stripes would get 10 extra points in the credit evaluation.
“We welcome young people attached to parties on both sides of the political divide to apply for the loans,” he said.
“It doesn't matter what party they belong to. This loan is meant to help youths.
“This fund is not set up for political purposes but to train more Malaysian youths to be entrepreneurs.”
Dr Chua also said successful applicants would be given free courses on subjects that would help them in their business.
“We will also set up a database of all successful applicants so they can share their experience in building their business and expanding their network,” Dr Chua added.
Those interested can download the application forms from www.mca.org.my.
In an immediate response to the scheme, World Youth Foundation chief executive officer Varsha Ajmera said: “Getting credit from this scheme will stop young people from borrowing from Ah Long.
“The free courses offered to successful applicants will help them establish their business.”
MCA Youth chief Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong said the scheme was a timely step to help young people who had problems getting loans from banks.
“This programme will help young people to start a business on a small scale and build on that,” he added.
Single Parents Association of Tanjung Ampang president Siti Zubaidah said the successful applicants should have a passion for the business they were venturing into.
“If they love what they are doing, chances are they will work hard to make their business a success.”
Voice of Women president Chew Hoong Ling suggested that NGOs be allowed to apply for the scheme so they could start social entrepreneurship to fund their causes.
Source : The Star
Date : 18 January 2012
Label : General
KUALA LUMPUR: As the Year of the Dragon marches in, MCA is offering a RM40mil micro credit packet to Malaysians regardless of race or creed and across the political divide.
Under the scheme to be managed by MCA-controlled Koperasi Jayadiri Malaysia Bhd and Koperasi Serbaguna Malaysia, loan applicants must be between 21 and 45 years of age and the money should be used to start or augment a business.
The maximum loan under the 1MCA Micro Credit For Youth package is RM20,000 payable within five years at 7% interest, party president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek said.
“We decided to introduce the scheme because we realise that it is difficult for young people with no experience or with small businesses to access credit,” Dr Chua told reporters after chairing the MCA presidential council meeting here yesterday.
He said single parents and those attached to non-governmental organisations and political parties of all stripes would get 10 extra points in the credit evaluation.
“We welcome young people attached to parties on both sides of the political divide to apply for the loans,” he said.
“It doesn't matter what party they belong to. This loan is meant to help youths.
“This fund is not set up for political purposes but to train more Malaysian youths to be entrepreneurs.”
Dr Chua also said successful applicants would be given free courses on subjects that would help them in their business.
“We will also set up a database of all successful applicants so they can share their experience in building their business and expanding their network,” Dr Chua added.
Those interested can download the application forms from www.mca.org.my.
In an immediate response to the scheme, World Youth Foundation chief executive officer Varsha Ajmera said: “Getting credit from this scheme will stop young people from borrowing from Ah Long.
“The free courses offered to successful applicants will help them establish their business.”
MCA Youth chief Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong said the scheme was a timely step to help young people who had problems getting loans from banks.
“This programme will help young people to start a business on a small scale and build on that,” he added.
Single Parents Association of Tanjung Ampang president Siti Zubaidah said the successful applicants should have a passion for the business they were venturing into.
“If they love what they are doing, chances are they will work hard to make their business a success.”
Voice of Women president Chew Hoong Ling suggested that NGOs be allowed to apply for the scheme so they could start social entrepreneurship to fund their causes.
Source : The Star
Date : 18 January 2012
Label : General
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
afternoon highlight (17/01/12/011/486) StanChart sees 2.7% GDP growth for M'sia in 2012
StanChart sees 2.7% GDP growth for M'sia in 2012
KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 17, 2012): Malaysia's economy is expected to hit a trough this quarter, before growth accelerates as the year progresses, boosted by a pick-up in domestic activity, analysts at Standard Chartered Research said.
They expect the still-robust demand for commodities, led by palm oil, rubber and liquefied natural gas (LNG), to cushion the impact of weaker export numbers from the manufacturing sector.
Standard Chartered predicts the country's gross domestic product (GDP) will expand at a "sub-par" rate of 2.7% in 2012, which is about half the pace of the government's official forecast of between 5% and 6% this year.
The economy grew 4.8% last year.
The government's growth target for 2012 is "too aggressive" given the poor global economic outlook this year, said the bank's Southeast Asia head of research Tai Hui.
"Malaysia, being an open economy, is susceptible to the fallout in the West,'' he said in a briefing yesterday.
Standard Chartered also sees the possibility of a 50-basis point (bps) rate cut by Bank Negara Malaysia in the first half of 2012, starting with a 25bps cut in March. "The focus will be growth over inflation,'' Tai said.
While growth will not collapse like it did in 2008 and 2009, a further deterioration of the European debt mess will prompt central banks across Asia to be more dovish and growth-oriented in the first quarter of 2012.
"Asia has not decoupled from the West, but is better insulated and more diversified,'' the bank's chief economist Gerard Lyons said.
He also sees the trend of inflows from the West into Asia continuing, as global investors continue to seek higher yields outside their home markets.
With the West still deep in crisis, gold is poised to become a winner again this year.
The bank's global head of commodities research Hsi Han Pin said gold price is expected to rebound toward US$2,000 an ounce from its recent pullback to US$1,600.
Hsi also has a relatively benign view on crude palm oil (CPO), which he expects to average RM3,450 a tonne in 2012, up from RM3,216 in 2011.
This is higher than local analysts' prediction of an average RM3,000 a tonne.
Source : The Sun
Date : 17 Jan 2012
KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 17, 2012): Malaysia's economy is expected to hit a trough this quarter, before growth accelerates as the year progresses, boosted by a pick-up in domestic activity, analysts at Standard Chartered Research said.
They expect the still-robust demand for commodities, led by palm oil, rubber and liquefied natural gas (LNG), to cushion the impact of weaker export numbers from the manufacturing sector.
Standard Chartered predicts the country's gross domestic product (GDP) will expand at a "sub-par" rate of 2.7% in 2012, which is about half the pace of the government's official forecast of between 5% and 6% this year.
The economy grew 4.8% last year.
The government's growth target for 2012 is "too aggressive" given the poor global economic outlook this year, said the bank's Southeast Asia head of research Tai Hui.
"Malaysia, being an open economy, is susceptible to the fallout in the West,'' he said in a briefing yesterday.
Standard Chartered also sees the possibility of a 50-basis point (bps) rate cut by Bank Negara Malaysia in the first half of 2012, starting with a 25bps cut in March. "The focus will be growth over inflation,'' Tai said.
While growth will not collapse like it did in 2008 and 2009, a further deterioration of the European debt mess will prompt central banks across Asia to be more dovish and growth-oriented in the first quarter of 2012.
"Asia has not decoupled from the West, but is better insulated and more diversified,'' the bank's chief economist Gerard Lyons said.
He also sees the trend of inflows from the West into Asia continuing, as global investors continue to seek higher yields outside their home markets.
With the West still deep in crisis, gold is poised to become a winner again this year.
The bank's global head of commodities research Hsi Han Pin said gold price is expected to rebound toward US$2,000 an ounce from its recent pullback to US$1,600.
Hsi also has a relatively benign view on crude palm oil (CPO), which he expects to average RM3,450 a tonne in 2012, up from RM3,216 in 2011.
This is higher than local analysts' prediction of an average RM3,000 a tonne.
Source : The Sun
Date : 17 Jan 2012
Today's Pick (17/01/12/011/703) Khazanah jual kepentingan Proton kepada DRB-Hicom
Khazanah jual kepentingan Proton kepada DRB-Hicom
KUALA LUMPUR 16 Jan. - Khazanah Nasional Bhd mengumumkan yang ia akan menjual 42.74 peratus kepentingannya dalam Proton Holdings Bhd kepada DRB-Hicom Bhd menerusi jualan bersyarat dengan harga RM5.50 sesaham atau RM1.291 bilion.
Dalam satu kenyataan hari ini, Khazanah berkata keputusan itu dibuat berikutan perbincangan dan penilaian terperinci pelbagai cadangan bagi memastikan yang proses itu diteliti, nilai kewangan yang wajar telah diterima dan pemegang saham baharu itu boleh membawa syarikat pembuat auto nasional ini ke peringkat seterusnya pertumbuhan strategik seiring dengan aspirasi perkembangan perindustrian sektor automotif nasional.
Penjualan ini masih lagi tertakluk kepada, antaranya, kelulusan pemegang saham DRB-Hicom.
"Sebaik selesainya perjanjian jual dan beli, DRB-Hicom perlu melaksanakan tawaran awam mandatori ke atas baki saham Proton,” kata cabang pelaburan kerajaan itu.
Pengarah Urusan Khazanah, Tan Sri Azman Mokhtar berkata menurut penilaian menyeluruh cadangan itu, yang menawarkan strategi perniagaan yang jelas dan boleh dilaksanakan, DRB-Hicom telah dikenal pasti sebagai pihak yang paling sesuai untuk mengambilalih kepentingan dalam Proton.
"Cadangan DRB-Hicom turut memperlihatkan yang penglibatan menyeluruh syarikat dalam sektor automotif dan rangkaian kerjasama strategik, kedua tempatan dan antarabangsa.
"Cadangan strategi dan pelan perniagaan DRB-Hicom menyediakan platform yang efektif bagi meningkatkan kemampanan Proton dan memenuhi keperluan pertumbuhan jangka panjangnya.
"Ia turut mengemukakan harga tawaran yang boleh diterima kepada Khazanah,” kata beliau.
Pengumuman oleh cabang pelaburan kerajaan itu sekali gus menjawab segala persoalan mengenai pihak manakah yang akan mengambilalih kepentingan besar dalam syarikat pembuat auto negara itu bagi memacu syarikat berkenaan ke arah kejayaan yang lebih hebat.
Sejak beberapa bulan lepas, banyak pihak telah secara langsung dan tidak langsung mengumumkan minat untuk memiliki kepentingan dalam Proton.
Selain daripada DRB-Hicom, Pengerusi Proton Holdings, Datuk Seri Mohd Nadzmi Salleh juga telah tampil untuk mengumumkan minatnya dalam saham itu. Urus niaga saham-saham Proton Holdings dan konglomerat DRB-Hicom Bhd digantung dari pukul 9 pagi hingga 5 petang tertakluk kepada pengumuman.
Saham-saham Proton ditutup pada RM5.18 pada hari Jumaat sementara DRB-Hicom pada RM2.17.
Sementara itu dalam kenyataan kepada Bursa Malaysia, DRB-Hicom yang mempunyai kaitan dengan taikun Tan Sri Syed Mokhtar al-Bukhary, berkata cadangan pengambilalihan itu dijangka mampu mewujudkan sinergi dan peluang perniagaan untuk kumpulan DRB-Hicom dan Proton untuk mengembangkan program vendor pensetempatan dan tempatan.
Ia menambah yang DRB-Hicom akan mengekalkan hasrat dan kepentingannya untuk melindungi syarikat pembuat kereta itu dan pada masa yang sama, menggalakkan, memudahkan, mengembangkan dan meningkatkan industri automotif Malaysia, sekali gus menjadikan Malaysia haba automotif pilihan.
"Kumpulan DRB-Hicom Group ialah antara peserta utama dalam industri automotif di Malaysia, terlibat dalam rantaian bersepadu keseluruhan ekosistem automotif seperti pembuatan dan pengedaran komponen automotif, pemasangan, pengedaran dan jualan motosikal dan kenderaan komersil serta pengedaran dan jualan kereta penumpang. "Cadangan MGO itu pula akan menyediakan peluang untuk DRB-Hicom terus meningkatkan pegangan sahamnya dalam Proton dan selepas pengambilalihan, dan selepas itu menyaksikan Proton menjadi anak syarikat DRB-HICOM sekiranya cadangan MGO itu berjaya,” kata syarikat.
DRB-Hicom berkata cadangan itu dijangka tidak memberikan kesan kepada pendapatan dan pendapatan sesaham DRB-Hicom untuk tahun kewangan berakhir 31 Mac, 2012 memandangkan cadangan itu hanya dijangka selesai dalam suku kedua 2012.
Ia menambah cadangan itu dijangka menyumbang secara positif kepada pendapatan masa depan kumpulan kerana Proton telahpun sedia menjana pendapatan. — BERNAMA
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 16 January 2012
KUALA LUMPUR 16 Jan. - Khazanah Nasional Bhd mengumumkan yang ia akan menjual 42.74 peratus kepentingannya dalam Proton Holdings Bhd kepada DRB-Hicom Bhd menerusi jualan bersyarat dengan harga RM5.50 sesaham atau RM1.291 bilion.
Dalam satu kenyataan hari ini, Khazanah berkata keputusan itu dibuat berikutan perbincangan dan penilaian terperinci pelbagai cadangan bagi memastikan yang proses itu diteliti, nilai kewangan yang wajar telah diterima dan pemegang saham baharu itu boleh membawa syarikat pembuat auto nasional ini ke peringkat seterusnya pertumbuhan strategik seiring dengan aspirasi perkembangan perindustrian sektor automotif nasional.
Penjualan ini masih lagi tertakluk kepada, antaranya, kelulusan pemegang saham DRB-Hicom.
"Sebaik selesainya perjanjian jual dan beli, DRB-Hicom perlu melaksanakan tawaran awam mandatori ke atas baki saham Proton,” kata cabang pelaburan kerajaan itu.
Pengarah Urusan Khazanah, Tan Sri Azman Mokhtar berkata menurut penilaian menyeluruh cadangan itu, yang menawarkan strategi perniagaan yang jelas dan boleh dilaksanakan, DRB-Hicom telah dikenal pasti sebagai pihak yang paling sesuai untuk mengambilalih kepentingan dalam Proton.
"Cadangan DRB-Hicom turut memperlihatkan yang penglibatan menyeluruh syarikat dalam sektor automotif dan rangkaian kerjasama strategik, kedua tempatan dan antarabangsa.
"Cadangan strategi dan pelan perniagaan DRB-Hicom menyediakan platform yang efektif bagi meningkatkan kemampanan Proton dan memenuhi keperluan pertumbuhan jangka panjangnya.
"Ia turut mengemukakan harga tawaran yang boleh diterima kepada Khazanah,” kata beliau.
Pengumuman oleh cabang pelaburan kerajaan itu sekali gus menjawab segala persoalan mengenai pihak manakah yang akan mengambilalih kepentingan besar dalam syarikat pembuat auto negara itu bagi memacu syarikat berkenaan ke arah kejayaan yang lebih hebat.
Sejak beberapa bulan lepas, banyak pihak telah secara langsung dan tidak langsung mengumumkan minat untuk memiliki kepentingan dalam Proton.
Selain daripada DRB-Hicom, Pengerusi Proton Holdings, Datuk Seri Mohd Nadzmi Salleh juga telah tampil untuk mengumumkan minatnya dalam saham itu. Urus niaga saham-saham Proton Holdings dan konglomerat DRB-Hicom Bhd digantung dari pukul 9 pagi hingga 5 petang tertakluk kepada pengumuman.
Saham-saham Proton ditutup pada RM5.18 pada hari Jumaat sementara DRB-Hicom pada RM2.17.
Sementara itu dalam kenyataan kepada Bursa Malaysia, DRB-Hicom yang mempunyai kaitan dengan taikun Tan Sri Syed Mokhtar al-Bukhary, berkata cadangan pengambilalihan itu dijangka mampu mewujudkan sinergi dan peluang perniagaan untuk kumpulan DRB-Hicom dan Proton untuk mengembangkan program vendor pensetempatan dan tempatan.
Ia menambah yang DRB-Hicom akan mengekalkan hasrat dan kepentingannya untuk melindungi syarikat pembuat kereta itu dan pada masa yang sama, menggalakkan, memudahkan, mengembangkan dan meningkatkan industri automotif Malaysia, sekali gus menjadikan Malaysia haba automotif pilihan.
"Kumpulan DRB-Hicom Group ialah antara peserta utama dalam industri automotif di Malaysia, terlibat dalam rantaian bersepadu keseluruhan ekosistem automotif seperti pembuatan dan pengedaran komponen automotif, pemasangan, pengedaran dan jualan motosikal dan kenderaan komersil serta pengedaran dan jualan kereta penumpang. "Cadangan MGO itu pula akan menyediakan peluang untuk DRB-Hicom terus meningkatkan pegangan sahamnya dalam Proton dan selepas pengambilalihan, dan selepas itu menyaksikan Proton menjadi anak syarikat DRB-HICOM sekiranya cadangan MGO itu berjaya,” kata syarikat.
DRB-Hicom berkata cadangan itu dijangka tidak memberikan kesan kepada pendapatan dan pendapatan sesaham DRB-Hicom untuk tahun kewangan berakhir 31 Mac, 2012 memandangkan cadangan itu hanya dijangka selesai dalam suku kedua 2012.
Ia menambah cadangan itu dijangka menyumbang secara positif kepada pendapatan masa depan kumpulan kerana Proton telahpun sedia menjana pendapatan. — BERNAMA
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 16 January 2012
Monday, January 16, 2012
afternoon highlight (16/01/12/010/485) When ‘good enough’ is really not good enough
When ‘good enough’ is really not good enough
NOW is not the time for the small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to be content with what they have achieved as today’s business environment has become more competitive.
SMEs must scale up and not remain small or medium-sized or they could succumb to pressures from bigger players in the industry.BrandLaureate president Dr K.K. Johan said SMEs should not maintain their status quo position and rest on their laurels.
He said in the 21st century, Malaysian enterprises should have the vision to become global champions and must strive to achieve it.
“If you do not make this leap, you will forever be a ‘jaguh kampong’,” he stressed.
Speaking at the BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards 2011 last Friday, Johan said local SMEs must find ways to differentiate themselves from their competitors.
“It is not enough to be just good; we need to create a phenomenon that arrest people’s attention, create something that is out of the common, something that stir people’s imagination — to want and be part of the phenomenon.”
He said for brands to be successful, they must be supported by four fundamentals of branding, or the 4S, which are structure, strategy, synergy and strength.
“With these four pillars in place, you will not only be a winnable brand but a brand phenomenon.”
Johan also urged SMEs to take their brand to the next great level and beyond.
At the awards ceremony, Takaful Ikhlas Sdn Bhd walked away with three awards, namely the Brand of the Year, Product Branding — Best Brands in Medical Plan (won by its medical insurance, IMAT) and the BrandLaureate SMEs CEO of the Year Award 2011 (won by its president and chief executive officer Datuk Syed Moheeb Syed Kamarulzaman).
Founder and chairman of Ramly Food Processing Sdn Bhd, Datuk Ramly Mokni, bagged The BrandLaureate Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad SMEs Man of the Year award, while former director-general of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority and now chairman of PKT Logistics Group Sdn Bhd, Datuk Jalilah Baba, won the BrandLaureate Tun Dr Siti Hasmah SMEs Woman of the Year award.
The BrandLaureate SMEs Entrepreneur of the Year Award went to Datuk Michael Tio of PKT Logistics.
The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards are in line with the government’s objective of globalising local brands.
The awards are to honour brand excellence among the SMEs in Malaysia.
Themed “Brand Phenomenon”, the 2011 awards dinner was attended by 1,000 guests from the SME sector, corporate captains and personalities.
It was organised by the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation (APBF), the world’s only branding foundation.
APBF is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the promotion and improvement of branding standards in Malaysia and the Asia-Pacific.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 16 January 2012
Source : Utusan Malaysia Date : 13 January 2012
NOW is not the time for the small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to be content with what they have achieved as today’s business environment has become more competitive.
SMEs must scale up and not remain small or medium-sized or they could succumb to pressures from bigger players in the industry.BrandLaureate president Dr K.K. Johan said SMEs should not maintain their status quo position and rest on their laurels.
He said in the 21st century, Malaysian enterprises should have the vision to become global champions and must strive to achieve it.
“If you do not make this leap, you will forever be a ‘jaguh kampong’,” he stressed.
Speaking at the BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards 2011 last Friday, Johan said local SMEs must find ways to differentiate themselves from their competitors.
“It is not enough to be just good; we need to create a phenomenon that arrest people’s attention, create something that is out of the common, something that stir people’s imagination — to want and be part of the phenomenon.”
He said for brands to be successful, they must be supported by four fundamentals of branding, or the 4S, which are structure, strategy, synergy and strength.
“With these four pillars in place, you will not only be a winnable brand but a brand phenomenon.”
Johan also urged SMEs to take their brand to the next great level and beyond.
At the awards ceremony, Takaful Ikhlas Sdn Bhd walked away with three awards, namely the Brand of the Year, Product Branding — Best Brands in Medical Plan (won by its medical insurance, IMAT) and the BrandLaureate SMEs CEO of the Year Award 2011 (won by its president and chief executive officer Datuk Syed Moheeb Syed Kamarulzaman).
Founder and chairman of Ramly Food Processing Sdn Bhd, Datuk Ramly Mokni, bagged The BrandLaureate Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad SMEs Man of the Year award, while former director-general of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority and now chairman of PKT Logistics Group Sdn Bhd, Datuk Jalilah Baba, won the BrandLaureate Tun Dr Siti Hasmah SMEs Woman of the Year award.
The BrandLaureate SMEs Entrepreneur of the Year Award went to Datuk Michael Tio of PKT Logistics.
The BrandLaureate SMEs BestBrands Awards are in line with the government’s objective of globalising local brands.
The awards are to honour brand excellence among the SMEs in Malaysia.
Themed “Brand Phenomenon”, the 2011 awards dinner was attended by 1,000 guests from the SME sector, corporate captains and personalities.
It was organised by the Asia Pacific Brands Foundation (APBF), the world’s only branding foundation.
APBF is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the promotion and improvement of branding standards in Malaysia and the Asia-Pacific.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 16 January 2012
Source : Utusan Malaysia Date : 13 January 2012
Friday, January 13, 2012
Afternoon Highlight (13/01/12/009/484) PKS: CIMB Bank yakin kekalkan pertumbuhan pinjaman
PKS: CIMB Bank yakin kekalkan pertumbuhan pinjaman
KUALA LUMPUR 12 Jan.- CIMB Bank Bhd. (CIMB Bank) menjangkakan pertumbuhan berterusan sebanyak dua digit dalam pemberian pinjaman kepada perusahaan kecil dan sederhana (PKS) pada tahun ini.
Pengarah Eksekutifnya, Datuk Sulaiman Mohd. Tahir bagaimanapun enggan mendedahkan sasaran sebenar pertumbuhan pinjaman segmen tersebut.
Tahun lalu, pinjaman PKS berkembang sekitar 13 hingga 14 peratus.
" Segmen ini mempunyai banyak ruang untuk tumbuh dan kami akan mengambil kesempatan daripadanya," kata beliau selepas majlis pelancaran BizLoyalty Program di sini hari ini.
Majlis pelancaran disempurnakan Ketua Eksekutif CIMB Group, Datuk Seri Nazir Razak.
Menurut Sulaiman, CIMB Bank mempunyai 300,000 pelanggan PKS ketika ini dan ia dijangka meningkat kepada 350,000 menjelang hujung tahun ini.
Ini didorong oleh pelbagai usaha yang dijalankan bank tersebut antaranya menerusi pelancaran program BizLoyalty yang merupakan satu-satunya program kesetiaan kepada para pelanggan PKS di Malaysia bagi menyediakan mereka satu pusat sehenti penyelesaian untuk bertemu dengan pelbagai keperluan perniagaan.
Bagi menikmati keistimewaan program tersebut, pelanggan perlu membuka akaun semasa BizLoyalty yang hadir bersama kemudahan perbankan dalam talian, BizChannel.
Ia membantu PKS menguruskan transaksi akaun dan pembayaran gaji secara automatik.
Pelanggan akan memperolehi mata ganjaran bagi setiap transaksi yang dikenali sebagai BizPoints dan mereka boleh menebusnya bagi mendapatkan pelbagai barangan dan perkhidmatan yang ditawarkan oleh rakan-rakan program BizLoyalty.
Antaranya Telekom Malaysia, syarikat insurans Allianz, Touch 'n Go, Dell Malaysia, Canon dan Sage Software.
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 13 January 2012
Afternoon Highlight (13/01/12/009/482)
KUALA LUMPUR 12 Jan.- CIMB Bank Bhd. (CIMB Bank) menjangkakan pertumbuhan berterusan sebanyak dua digit dalam pemberian pinjaman kepada perusahaan kecil dan sederhana (PKS) pada tahun ini.
Pengarah Eksekutifnya, Datuk Sulaiman Mohd. Tahir bagaimanapun enggan mendedahkan sasaran sebenar pertumbuhan pinjaman segmen tersebut.
Tahun lalu, pinjaman PKS berkembang sekitar 13 hingga 14 peratus.
" Segmen ini mempunyai banyak ruang untuk tumbuh dan kami akan mengambil kesempatan daripadanya," kata beliau selepas majlis pelancaran BizLoyalty Program di sini hari ini.
Majlis pelancaran disempurnakan Ketua Eksekutif CIMB Group, Datuk Seri Nazir Razak.
Menurut Sulaiman, CIMB Bank mempunyai 300,000 pelanggan PKS ketika ini dan ia dijangka meningkat kepada 350,000 menjelang hujung tahun ini.
Ini didorong oleh pelbagai usaha yang dijalankan bank tersebut antaranya menerusi pelancaran program BizLoyalty yang merupakan satu-satunya program kesetiaan kepada para pelanggan PKS di Malaysia bagi menyediakan mereka satu pusat sehenti penyelesaian untuk bertemu dengan pelbagai keperluan perniagaan.
Bagi menikmati keistimewaan program tersebut, pelanggan perlu membuka akaun semasa BizLoyalty yang hadir bersama kemudahan perbankan dalam talian, BizChannel.
Ia membantu PKS menguruskan transaksi akaun dan pembayaran gaji secara automatik.
Pelanggan akan memperolehi mata ganjaran bagi setiap transaksi yang dikenali sebagai BizPoints dan mereka boleh menebusnya bagi mendapatkan pelbagai barangan dan perkhidmatan yang ditawarkan oleh rakan-rakan program BizLoyalty.
Antaranya Telekom Malaysia, syarikat insurans Allianz, Touch 'n Go, Dell Malaysia, Canon dan Sage Software.
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 13 January 2012
Afternoon Highlight (13/01/12/009/482)
Afternoon Highlight (12/01/12/008/483) India opens retail sector
India opens retail sector
INDIA'S government has allowed foreign brands such as Adidas or home furnishings giant Ikea to open 100-per cent owned shops, but will continue to block the entry of supermarkets.
The retail reform allowing wholly foreign-owned "single brand stores" into the country was announced late Tuesday by the left-leaning government, which had announced sweeping plans to throw open the sector.
In December, it said it planned to allow in foreign supermarket chains such as Wal-Mart, but it backtracked two weeks later amid parliamentary opposition and protests from small shopkeepers.
Major Western brands such as Adidas already own shops in the booming retail centres and shopping malls of major cities, but they are obliged to operate with a local partner.
"Foreign direct investment (FDI) up to 100 per cent, under the government approval route, would be permitted in single brand product retail trading," the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion said late Tuesday.
The condition is that the foreign companies owning more than 51 per cent of their shops in India source a minimum of 30 per cent of their products from small-scale local "cottage industry" suppliers.
"The move will not only mean more FDI but lead to employment and more choices for consumers," said the secretary general of business lobby group FICCI, Rajiv Kumar.
"The sourcing clause will lead to a direct benefit for the SME (small and medium-sized enterprises) sector," he added.
But Arvind Singhal, chairman of Gurgaon-based retail consultancy Technopak, said he was sceptical that foreign companies would be rushing to open 100-per cent owned stories because of the local supplier condition.
"This is an unfeasible demand. If a foreign brand like Ikea comes to India they want their own suppliers, who are very efficient," he said.
The insistence that the suppliers be small in scale also limits the options of large companies such as Ikea.
"If they come and do find good local suppliers, what happens when those suppliers become too big to be included? This means that the reform will not mean much," he said.
The change to the FDI rule does not require parliamentary approval. The government U-turn on allowing in supermarkets was forced after an ally in the ruling coalition threatened to quit over the move.
"I wonder about the government's real intention to reform the retail sector," Singhal said.
"On this thinking, multi-brand supermarkets will never be allowed here."
Other analysts said brands like Adidas, Louis Vuitton or Gucci, which are already in India, might look to expand their presence, while others would be unlikely to jump in with a 100-per cent owned store.
"Action may not come from new players. Only those who understand the Indian markets and its challenges and policies will be interested," said Anil Talreja, a partner with consultancy Deloitte India.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 12 January 2012
Afternoon Highlight (12/01/12/008/481)
INDIA'S government has allowed foreign brands such as Adidas or home furnishings giant Ikea to open 100-per cent owned shops, but will continue to block the entry of supermarkets.
The retail reform allowing wholly foreign-owned "single brand stores" into the country was announced late Tuesday by the left-leaning government, which had announced sweeping plans to throw open the sector.
In December, it said it planned to allow in foreign supermarket chains such as Wal-Mart, but it backtracked two weeks later amid parliamentary opposition and protests from small shopkeepers.
Major Western brands such as Adidas already own shops in the booming retail centres and shopping malls of major cities, but they are obliged to operate with a local partner.
"Foreign direct investment (FDI) up to 100 per cent, under the government approval route, would be permitted in single brand product retail trading," the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion said late Tuesday.
The condition is that the foreign companies owning more than 51 per cent of their shops in India source a minimum of 30 per cent of their products from small-scale local "cottage industry" suppliers.
"The move will not only mean more FDI but lead to employment and more choices for consumers," said the secretary general of business lobby group FICCI, Rajiv Kumar.
"The sourcing clause will lead to a direct benefit for the SME (small and medium-sized enterprises) sector," he added.
But Arvind Singhal, chairman of Gurgaon-based retail consultancy Technopak, said he was sceptical that foreign companies would be rushing to open 100-per cent owned stories because of the local supplier condition.
"This is an unfeasible demand. If a foreign brand like Ikea comes to India they want their own suppliers, who are very efficient," he said.
The insistence that the suppliers be small in scale also limits the options of large companies such as Ikea.
"If they come and do find good local suppliers, what happens when those suppliers become too big to be included? This means that the reform will not mean much," he said.
The change to the FDI rule does not require parliamentary approval. The government U-turn on allowing in supermarkets was forced after an ally in the ruling coalition threatened to quit over the move.
"I wonder about the government's real intention to reform the retail sector," Singhal said.
"On this thinking, multi-brand supermarkets will never be allowed here."
Other analysts said brands like Adidas, Louis Vuitton or Gucci, which are already in India, might look to expand their presence, while others would be unlikely to jump in with a 100-per cent owned store.
"Action may not come from new players. Only those who understand the Indian markets and its challenges and policies will be interested," said Anil Talreja, a partner with consultancy Deloitte India.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 12 January 2012
Afternoon Highlight (12/01/12/008/481)
Today’s Pick (12/01/12/008/700) Lebih banyak peluang ditawar
Lebih banyak peluang ditawar
KUALA LUMPUR 10 Jan. - Perdagangan di antara Malaysia dengan Arab Saudi dijangka kukuh pada tahun ini didorong oleh lebih banyak peluang-peluang perniagaan yang ditawarkan oleh negara Islam itu.
Pesuruhjaya Perdagangan, Perbadanan Pembangunan Perdagangan Luar Malaysia (Matrade), Amran Yem berkata, Arab Saudi mengalu-alukan kemasukan produk-produk seperti bahan pembinaan, makanan dan minuman, alat ganti kenderaan serta kosmetik dan barangan penjagaan kesihatan dari Malaysia.
Dari segi perkhidmatan pula, negara tersebut kekurangan kepakaran dalam bidang pengurusan kemudahan.
''Berurusniaga dengan orang Arab adalah berbeza kerana apabila mereka menyukai sesuatu produk, mereka akan mengulang tempahan dalam kuantiti yang sangat banyak.
''Ini adalah peluang keemasan kepada ahli perniagaan Malaysia, tetapi mereka perlu memastikan produk yang ditawarkan disukai oleh orang Arab di samping mempunyai kapasiti untuk memenuhi permintaan mereka," katanya semasa sidang akhbar Seminar Arab Saudi-Pasaran Yang Pesat Berkembang kepada syarikat-syarikat Malaysia di sini hari ini.
Arab Saudi merupakan rakan dagangan penting kepada Malaysia di kalangan rantau Timur Tengah dan ia menjadi rakan kedua terbesar selepas Emiriah Arab Bersatu (UAE).
Pada 2010, perdagangan melibatkan kedua-dua hala meningkat sebanyak 37.7 peratus kepada RM9.32 bilion.
Bagi 10 bulan pertama 2011, arah aliran tersebut menunjukkan kenaikan dengan pengukuhan sebanyak 49 peratus kepada RM10.5 bilion berbanding tempoh yang sama 2010.
"Daripada angka-angka ini, kita dapat melihat terdapatnya potensi pertumbuhan dalam perdagangan dengan Arab Saudi, justeru, ahli-ahli perniagaan Malaysia perlu merebut peluang yang terbuka luas ini," tambah Amran lagi.
Beliau berkata, Arab Saudi baharu sahaja mengumumkan perbelanjaan terbesarnya bagi Belanjawan 2012 dengan memperuntukan sejumlah SAR690 bilion (RM 580.2 bilion).
Peruntukan besar itu bagi membangunkan sektor bukan minyak negara tersebut sekali gus membuka permintaan terhadap produk dan perkhidmatan asing dijangka turut meningkat.
Ini kerana pembekal tempatan tidak mempunyai kapasiti terutama dari segi pembinaan, minyak, gas dan petrokimia, penjagaan kesihatan, teknologi alam sekitar dan perkhidmatan.
Tambah Amran, setakat ini sudah ada 101 buah syarikat Malaysia yang telah berurusniaga di Arab Saudi dan angka tersebut dijangka meningkat pada tahun ini.
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 11 January 2012
Today’s Pick (12/01/12/008/698)
KUALA LUMPUR 10 Jan. - Perdagangan di antara Malaysia dengan Arab Saudi dijangka kukuh pada tahun ini didorong oleh lebih banyak peluang-peluang perniagaan yang ditawarkan oleh negara Islam itu.
Pesuruhjaya Perdagangan, Perbadanan Pembangunan Perdagangan Luar Malaysia (Matrade), Amran Yem berkata, Arab Saudi mengalu-alukan kemasukan produk-produk seperti bahan pembinaan, makanan dan minuman, alat ganti kenderaan serta kosmetik dan barangan penjagaan kesihatan dari Malaysia.
Dari segi perkhidmatan pula, negara tersebut kekurangan kepakaran dalam bidang pengurusan kemudahan.
''Berurusniaga dengan orang Arab adalah berbeza kerana apabila mereka menyukai sesuatu produk, mereka akan mengulang tempahan dalam kuantiti yang sangat banyak.
''Ini adalah peluang keemasan kepada ahli perniagaan Malaysia, tetapi mereka perlu memastikan produk yang ditawarkan disukai oleh orang Arab di samping mempunyai kapasiti untuk memenuhi permintaan mereka," katanya semasa sidang akhbar Seminar Arab Saudi-Pasaran Yang Pesat Berkembang kepada syarikat-syarikat Malaysia di sini hari ini.
Arab Saudi merupakan rakan dagangan penting kepada Malaysia di kalangan rantau Timur Tengah dan ia menjadi rakan kedua terbesar selepas Emiriah Arab Bersatu (UAE).
Pada 2010, perdagangan melibatkan kedua-dua hala meningkat sebanyak 37.7 peratus kepada RM9.32 bilion.
Bagi 10 bulan pertama 2011, arah aliran tersebut menunjukkan kenaikan dengan pengukuhan sebanyak 49 peratus kepada RM10.5 bilion berbanding tempoh yang sama 2010.
"Daripada angka-angka ini, kita dapat melihat terdapatnya potensi pertumbuhan dalam perdagangan dengan Arab Saudi, justeru, ahli-ahli perniagaan Malaysia perlu merebut peluang yang terbuka luas ini," tambah Amran lagi.
Beliau berkata, Arab Saudi baharu sahaja mengumumkan perbelanjaan terbesarnya bagi Belanjawan 2012 dengan memperuntukan sejumlah SAR690 bilion (RM 580.2 bilion).
Peruntukan besar itu bagi membangunkan sektor bukan minyak negara tersebut sekali gus membuka permintaan terhadap produk dan perkhidmatan asing dijangka turut meningkat.
Ini kerana pembekal tempatan tidak mempunyai kapasiti terutama dari segi pembinaan, minyak, gas dan petrokimia, penjagaan kesihatan, teknologi alam sekitar dan perkhidmatan.
Tambah Amran, setakat ini sudah ada 101 buah syarikat Malaysia yang telah berurusniaga di Arab Saudi dan angka tersebut dijangka meningkat pada tahun ini.
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 11 January 2012
Today’s Pick (12/01/12/008/698)
Afternoon Highlight (11/01/12/007/482) Malaysian manufacturers to comply with new US law
Malaysian manufacturers to comply with new US law
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian manufacturers exporting to the US will have to ensure usage of licensed IT softwares in their business operations following the newly imposed Unfair Competition Act (UCA) in Washington and Louisiana states.
The two states have passed the bill in July last year, making it a violation for any business to carry out manufacturing and commercial activities using stolen or misappropriated IT infrastructure in its entire supply chain.
Open Computing Alliance regional representative Michael Mudd said that Malaysian companies that obey Malaysian law would already be compliant with the UCA.
“All they need is to get an audit certification from their external auditors to confirm that the software used is paid for. For this, I would imagine incremental cost to be low,” he said at a seminar at MATRADE Hall.
“I believe that Malaysia has an early bird advantage of about six to 12 months to comply with the UCA, in advance of larger economies,” he said, saying that China, for one, will need more time to shift to the compliance mainly because of the scale of its economy.
He added that smaller companies can act quicker because of faster decision-making and use its compliance as a competitive advantage.
Although the new civil law is still in a communicative period rather than enforcement already, Mudd said that it would be an inevitable as it is gaining traction across the US.
“The fact that the Attorneys General (representing 39 states and territories) wrote a letter to the US Federal Trade Commission asking for to enforce similar law across the country is indicative of (the law) moving forward very fast,” he said.
The US is the fourth largest trading partner and export market for Malaysia, accounting for RM51.19bil worth of Malaysian exports from January to October last year.
In 2010, the total trade between both countries were RM117.21bil or 10% of Malaysia's total trade volume.
Source : The Star
Date : 11 January 2012
Afternoon Highlight (11/01/12/007/480)
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Today’s Pick (11/01/12/007/699) Jeweller sees gold price on 'the uptrend'
Jeweller sees gold price on 'the uptrend'
KUALA LUMPUR: Poh Kong Holdings Bhd expects the price of gold to hold up this year as demand stays resilient, said its head of corporate affairs, administration and human resources Margaret Hon.
“The gold price will look choppy in 2012. It is lower now, but moving forward, we foresee it will be on the uptrend.
“Last year, we predicted gold would rise to US$2,000 per ounce, but it peaked at US$1,900 per ounce on Sept 5,” Hon said after the company's AGM.
Executive chairman and group managing director Datuk Choon Yee Seiong said a crucial factor that could influence gold prices was whether the conflict in Iran escalated, which could push up prices by some 30%.
Iran has threatened to shut down shipping lines on the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for oil, in response to Western sanctions on its oil exports.
Gold is seen as a safe haven in times of crisis. Prices shot up to a nominal all-time high in 2011 when global equity markets suffered a rout at the height of the eurozone debt crisis.
As at 6pm yesterday, spot gold was up 0.82% to US$1,624.4 an ounce.
Hon said even though gold prices were at record highs last year, it did not discourage demand from investors.
“Demand for gold globally is still on an upward trend. There is potential for us to perform,” she said.
Asked how Poh Kong mitigated the surge in gold prices on its bottom line, Hon explained that its margins depended more on its stock holdings.
“If we have gold stocks at a lower cost, we can enjoy higher margins until the stocks regularise themselves,” she said.
The company's inventory of gold, diamonds and gemstones increased to RM443.7mil in the financial year ended July 31, 2011 versus RM383.6mil a year earlier.
Choon said the jeweller, which would open its 101st store in Ipoh's Aeon Station 18 shopping centre in March, had ruled out overseas ventures this year.
On the progress of the group-wide restructuring, she said Poh Kong would wind up its non-key subsidiaries and consolidate all retail outlets under Poh Kong Jewellers Sdn Bhd.
In 2011, the company proposed to take up Islamic debt papers totalling RM150mil, with RM50mil to be spent on new branches and manufacturing equipment and RM100mil for the restructuring.
Hon said the restructuring, which could take three to five years, would bring down the costs of its subsidiaries, but declined to put a number on the expected savings as it has just commenced.
For its first quarter ended Oct 31, 2011, revenue climbed 36.11% to RM230.65mil from RM169.45 previously, while net profit rose 62.82% to RM17.72mil from RM10.89mil, bolstered by higher gold prices and sales.
Poh Kong ended unchanged at 44.5 sen with 597,500 shares changing hands.
Source : The Star
Date : 11 January 2012
Today’s Pick (11/01/12/007/697)
KUALA LUMPUR: Poh Kong Holdings Bhd expects the price of gold to hold up this year as demand stays resilient, said its head of corporate affairs, administration and human resources Margaret Hon.
“The gold price will look choppy in 2012. It is lower now, but moving forward, we foresee it will be on the uptrend.
“Last year, we predicted gold would rise to US$2,000 per ounce, but it peaked at US$1,900 per ounce on Sept 5,” Hon said after the company's AGM.
Executive chairman and group managing director Datuk Choon Yee Seiong said a crucial factor that could influence gold prices was whether the conflict in Iran escalated, which could push up prices by some 30%.
Iran has threatened to shut down shipping lines on the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for oil, in response to Western sanctions on its oil exports.
Gold is seen as a safe haven in times of crisis. Prices shot up to a nominal all-time high in 2011 when global equity markets suffered a rout at the height of the eurozone debt crisis.
As at 6pm yesterday, spot gold was up 0.82% to US$1,624.4 an ounce.
Hon said even though gold prices were at record highs last year, it did not discourage demand from investors.
“Demand for gold globally is still on an upward trend. There is potential for us to perform,” she said.
Asked how Poh Kong mitigated the surge in gold prices on its bottom line, Hon explained that its margins depended more on its stock holdings.
“If we have gold stocks at a lower cost, we can enjoy higher margins until the stocks regularise themselves,” she said.
The company's inventory of gold, diamonds and gemstones increased to RM443.7mil in the financial year ended July 31, 2011 versus RM383.6mil a year earlier.
Choon said the jeweller, which would open its 101st store in Ipoh's Aeon Station 18 shopping centre in March, had ruled out overseas ventures this year.
On the progress of the group-wide restructuring, she said Poh Kong would wind up its non-key subsidiaries and consolidate all retail outlets under Poh Kong Jewellers Sdn Bhd.
In 2011, the company proposed to take up Islamic debt papers totalling RM150mil, with RM50mil to be spent on new branches and manufacturing equipment and RM100mil for the restructuring.
Hon said the restructuring, which could take three to five years, would bring down the costs of its subsidiaries, but declined to put a number on the expected savings as it has just commenced.
For its first quarter ended Oct 31, 2011, revenue climbed 36.11% to RM230.65mil from RM169.45 previously, while net profit rose 62.82% to RM17.72mil from RM10.89mil, bolstered by higher gold prices and sales.
Poh Kong ended unchanged at 44.5 sen with 597,500 shares changing hands.
Source : The Star
Date : 11 January 2012
Today’s Pick (11/01/12/007/697)
Afternoon Highlight (10/01/12/006/481) My Agro Hypermart pasar produk PKS ke China
My Agro Hypermart pasar produk PKS ke China
MY Agro Hypermart menerusi Rukun Saksama Sdn Bhd akan mengeksport produk keluaran perusahaan kecil dan sederhana (PKS) tempatan bernilai RM15 juta ke China bermula bulan ini susulan kerjasamanya dengan pemborong negara itu.
Sehingga kini 28 jenis produk PKS sudah dipasarkan di China dengan menggunakan jenama One Malaysia Best dan jumlah itu dijangka bertambah berikutan usaha gigih kerajaan mempromosikan produk tempatan di luar negara.
Menteri Pertanian dan Industri Asas Tani, Datuk Seri Noh Omar, berkata pihaknya juga telah meminta FAMA mewujudkan Agro Bazar di luar negara seperti London bagi memasarkan hasil keluaran pertanian negara.
“Syarikat ini (My Agro Hypermart) menjadi pusat pengumpulan hasil PKS untuk dipasarkan di luar negara dan mereka tidak mendapat sebarang suntikan modal ataupun pembiayaan daripada kerajaan. Pihak kerajaan hanya bekerjasama dalam memberi bimbingan serta nasihat.
“Melalui pasar raya besar ini lebih 2,000 produk PKS dipasarkan di sini dan kita sememangnya mengalu-alukan penyertaan mana-mana syarikat swasta untuk mewujudkan pusat sehenti sebegini bagi memasarkan produk tempatan. Bayangkan kita mempunyai 13,000 produk keluaran IKS.
“Kabinet sudah meluluskan penggunaan jenama One Malaysia Best bagi terhadap semua produk tempatan yang akan memasuki pasaran antarabangsa,” katanya ketika merasmikan My Agro Hypermart di Taman Ekspo Pertanian Malaysia Serdang (MAEPS), semalam.
Hadir sama pada majlis itu, Pengarah Eksekutif Rukun Saksama Sdn Bhd, Datuk Jamal Yunus yang turut memeterai memorandum persefahaman (MoU) dengan FAMA, ASIA SHANGTEX serta usahawan IKS.
Noh berkata, walaupun ‘One Malaysia Best’ adalah jenama tunggal bagi produk PKS untuk memasuki pasaran antarabangsa, namun, syarikat yang mengeluarkan produk berkenaan masih boleh mengekalkan jenama mereka.
Beliau berkata, penggunaan jenama tunggal itu adalah bagi membolehkan produk berkenaan senang memasuki pasaran antarabangsa selain memastikan produk terbabit mematuhi piawaian ditetapkan.
“Melalui jenama tunggal berkenaan kita akan memastikan setiap produk mematuhi piawaian seperti kualiti, aspek kesihatan dan keselamatan serta jaminan halal,” katanya.
Sementara itu, Jamal berkata, beliau yakin jumlah produk yang akan dipasarkan pasar raya besar berkenaan akan meningkat kepada 3,000 produk dalam tempoh terdekat ini.
Source : Berita Harian
Date : 9 January 2012
Afternoon Highlight (10/01/12/006/479)
MY Agro Hypermart menerusi Rukun Saksama Sdn Bhd akan mengeksport produk keluaran perusahaan kecil dan sederhana (PKS) tempatan bernilai RM15 juta ke China bermula bulan ini susulan kerjasamanya dengan pemborong negara itu.
Sehingga kini 28 jenis produk PKS sudah dipasarkan di China dengan menggunakan jenama One Malaysia Best dan jumlah itu dijangka bertambah berikutan usaha gigih kerajaan mempromosikan produk tempatan di luar negara.
Menteri Pertanian dan Industri Asas Tani, Datuk Seri Noh Omar, berkata pihaknya juga telah meminta FAMA mewujudkan Agro Bazar di luar negara seperti London bagi memasarkan hasil keluaran pertanian negara.
“Syarikat ini (My Agro Hypermart) menjadi pusat pengumpulan hasil PKS untuk dipasarkan di luar negara dan mereka tidak mendapat sebarang suntikan modal ataupun pembiayaan daripada kerajaan. Pihak kerajaan hanya bekerjasama dalam memberi bimbingan serta nasihat.
“Melalui pasar raya besar ini lebih 2,000 produk PKS dipasarkan di sini dan kita sememangnya mengalu-alukan penyertaan mana-mana syarikat swasta untuk mewujudkan pusat sehenti sebegini bagi memasarkan produk tempatan. Bayangkan kita mempunyai 13,000 produk keluaran IKS.
“Kabinet sudah meluluskan penggunaan jenama One Malaysia Best bagi terhadap semua produk tempatan yang akan memasuki pasaran antarabangsa,” katanya ketika merasmikan My Agro Hypermart di Taman Ekspo Pertanian Malaysia Serdang (MAEPS), semalam.
Hadir sama pada majlis itu, Pengarah Eksekutif Rukun Saksama Sdn Bhd, Datuk Jamal Yunus yang turut memeterai memorandum persefahaman (MoU) dengan FAMA, ASIA SHANGTEX serta usahawan IKS.
Noh berkata, walaupun ‘One Malaysia Best’ adalah jenama tunggal bagi produk PKS untuk memasuki pasaran antarabangsa, namun, syarikat yang mengeluarkan produk berkenaan masih boleh mengekalkan jenama mereka.
Beliau berkata, penggunaan jenama tunggal itu adalah bagi membolehkan produk berkenaan senang memasuki pasaran antarabangsa selain memastikan produk terbabit mematuhi piawaian ditetapkan.
“Melalui jenama tunggal berkenaan kita akan memastikan setiap produk mematuhi piawaian seperti kualiti, aspek kesihatan dan keselamatan serta jaminan halal,” katanya.
Sementara itu, Jamal berkata, beliau yakin jumlah produk yang akan dipasarkan pasar raya besar berkenaan akan meningkat kepada 3,000 produk dalam tempoh terdekat ini.
Source : Berita Harian
Date : 9 January 2012
Afternoon Highlight (10/01/12/006/479)
Today’s Pick (10/01/12/006/698) MDeC to replenish ICON 2 fund, give out grants
MDeC to replenish ICON 2 fund, give out grants
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Multimedia Development Corp (MDeC) is replenishing the ICON 2 fund this year and is looking at giving out grants to deserving individuals.
Its chief executive Datuk Badlisham Ghazali said more than 200 recipients have received grants under this funding so far.
The fund can give out a minimum of RM25,000 and a maximum of RM250,000 per recipient.
"I can't tell you how much we have under this fund right now, but those with ideas and in need of funding are encouraged to apply," Badlisham said after witnessing a memorandum of understanding between GT Tower executive director Collin Ng and chairman of Mobile Monday Malaysia Janny Paul yesterday.
Badlisham said those with ideas of creating a mobile or online content via the Internet should apply for funding. He however, was mum when asked if the other grants under MDeC have been replenished too.
"We are looking at increasing our focus on new areas," he said, without elaborating further on what these new areas were.
He also said MDeC plans to garner more than RM1 billion in investments from all its MSC-status companies.
"Sixty per cent of the investments will come from the foreign sector while the rest are from domestic investments," he added.
On the MOU, he said Mobile Monday Malaysia and GTower became the world's first to sign a digital MOU on a tablet mobile device that replaced the conventional pen and paper.
With the MOU, GTower has agreed to play the role as the official venue host for Mobile Monday Malaysia monthly events at its rooftop bar, the VIEW. By June Ramlee
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 10 January 2012
Today’s Pick (10/01/12/006/696)
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Multimedia Development Corp (MDeC) is replenishing the ICON 2 fund this year and is looking at giving out grants to deserving individuals.
Its chief executive Datuk Badlisham Ghazali said more than 200 recipients have received grants under this funding so far.
The fund can give out a minimum of RM25,000 and a maximum of RM250,000 per recipient.
"I can't tell you how much we have under this fund right now, but those with ideas and in need of funding are encouraged to apply," Badlisham said after witnessing a memorandum of understanding between GT Tower executive director Collin Ng and chairman of Mobile Monday Malaysia Janny Paul yesterday.
Badlisham said those with ideas of creating a mobile or online content via the Internet should apply for funding. He however, was mum when asked if the other grants under MDeC have been replenished too.
"We are looking at increasing our focus on new areas," he said, without elaborating further on what these new areas were.
He also said MDeC plans to garner more than RM1 billion in investments from all its MSC-status companies.
"Sixty per cent of the investments will come from the foreign sector while the rest are from domestic investments," he added.
On the MOU, he said Mobile Monday Malaysia and GTower became the world's first to sign a digital MOU on a tablet mobile device that replaced the conventional pen and paper.
With the MOU, GTower has agreed to play the role as the official venue host for Mobile Monday Malaysia monthly events at its rooftop bar, the VIEW. By June Ramlee
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 10 January 2012
Today’s Pick (10/01/12/006/696)
Afternoon Highlight (09/01/12/005/480) Business opportunities in Sri Lanka
Business opportunities in Sri Lanka
A Malaysian delegation from the construction sector visited Sri Lanka last month to explore business opportunities and potential joint collaboration with local companies to contribute to the country’s construction and infrastructure development programme.
This mission was organised by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) as a follow-up to a similar mission held in 2010.
The delegation consisted of four Malaysian companies which are involved in the manufacture and assembly of diesel and gas generators, IBS modular buildings, light gauge steel and pre-fabricated timber roof trusses, pre-engineered buildings, modular house framing, solar photovoltaic mounting structure and built-in kitchen cabinets and wardrobes.
A total of 35 Sri Lankan companies attended the individual business meeting sessions, organised by Matrade, with the Malaysian delegation.
The mission generated RM1mil in sales while an additional RM16.3mil in potential sales are under negotiations.
One of the key potential areas of interest shown by Sri Lanka was the solar farm project, which could accommodate the increasing demand for alternative power source required by the country.
atrade’s Trade Commissioner in Chennai, India, Shah Nizam Ahmad said: “Sri Lanka offers vast opportunities in the construction and infrastructure sectors since the end of the country’s three decades of internal conflict in May 2009.
“Reconstruction and upgrading of infrastructure are not only focused on war-stricken areas of the north and east of Sri Lanka, but all over the country as the Sri Lankan Government is committed to improve the life of the people through better highways; improve water supply, education and health services; upgrade facilities such as ports and airports; improve the urban well-being such as the relocation of slum areas and providing proper housing for the people as well as liberalising the tourism sector to generate income for the nation.”
“Malaysian companies, in particular the construction companies, have gained an added advantage and widespread recognition in Sri Lanka as a provider of quality and reliable products and services. To-date, Malaysian companies have participated in 13 construction projects in Sri Lanka valued at US$365 million.”
“Non-construction Malaysian companies, such as Proton and Perodua, have also established themselves very well and had gained the trust of local consumers and business communities in terms of their product quality and level of service delivery in the market”, he added.
Source : The Star
Date : 7 Jan 2012
Afternoon Highlight (09/01/12/005/478)
A Malaysian delegation from the construction sector visited Sri Lanka last month to explore business opportunities and potential joint collaboration with local companies to contribute to the country’s construction and infrastructure development programme.
This mission was organised by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) as a follow-up to a similar mission held in 2010.
The delegation consisted of four Malaysian companies which are involved in the manufacture and assembly of diesel and gas generators, IBS modular buildings, light gauge steel and pre-fabricated timber roof trusses, pre-engineered buildings, modular house framing, solar photovoltaic mounting structure and built-in kitchen cabinets and wardrobes.
A total of 35 Sri Lankan companies attended the individual business meeting sessions, organised by Matrade, with the Malaysian delegation.
The mission generated RM1mil in sales while an additional RM16.3mil in potential sales are under negotiations.
One of the key potential areas of interest shown by Sri Lanka was the solar farm project, which could accommodate the increasing demand for alternative power source required by the country.
atrade’s Trade Commissioner in Chennai, India, Shah Nizam Ahmad said: “Sri Lanka offers vast opportunities in the construction and infrastructure sectors since the end of the country’s three decades of internal conflict in May 2009.
“Reconstruction and upgrading of infrastructure are not only focused on war-stricken areas of the north and east of Sri Lanka, but all over the country as the Sri Lankan Government is committed to improve the life of the people through better highways; improve water supply, education and health services; upgrade facilities such as ports and airports; improve the urban well-being such as the relocation of slum areas and providing proper housing for the people as well as liberalising the tourism sector to generate income for the nation.”
“Malaysian companies, in particular the construction companies, have gained an added advantage and widespread recognition in Sri Lanka as a provider of quality and reliable products and services. To-date, Malaysian companies have participated in 13 construction projects in Sri Lanka valued at US$365 million.”
“Non-construction Malaysian companies, such as Proton and Perodua, have also established themselves very well and had gained the trust of local consumers and business communities in terms of their product quality and level of service delivery in the market”, he added.
Source : The Star
Date : 7 Jan 2012
Afternoon Highlight (09/01/12/005/478)
Today’s Pick (09/01/12/005/697) Adjustments to motor premiums start Jan 16
Adjustments to motor premiums start Jan 16
THE gradual revision to motor insurance premiums under the New Motor Cover Framework will begin on January 16.
The is the first time motor insurance premiums are being revised after more than 30 years.
The adjustments are said to be marginal but the overall outcome will see those with a higher risk profile paying a bomb in their insurance premiums, while good drivers will be rewarded with lower rates, said Bank Negara Malaysia assistant governor Abu Hassan Alshari Yahaya.
Briefing the media here yesterday, he said the premium revision isin a small quantum and will be implemented gradually over four years.
"The implication on the members of the public and businesses will be marginal," he said, adding that premium adjustments will be smaller for categories of vehicles commonly used by the lower income group.
He said consumers can contact their respective insurers or agents for the exact quantum of the increase.
The new framework, first announced last March, is aimed prima-rily at addressing structural issues within the motor insurance sector.
It will pave the way for detariffing of motor insurance premiums in 2016, in which rates will be further differentiated in accordance to the risk profile of individual vehicles and be fairer to vehicle owners.
Abu Hassan said that the gradual premiums adjustment is to coincide with the improvements to the national transportation system expected in 2015, by when the public is anticipated to favour public transportation over their own vehicles.
Citing an example of the quantum of increase in premium, the assistant governor said for third-party cover, motorcyles of 110cc will see an increase of between RM1 and RM3.50 a year over the next four years, or a maximum of 30 sen a month.
For a private car of 1,400cc, the premium adjustment will be between RM6 and RM34 a year over the same period.
For commercial vehicles such as outstation taxis and buses, the impact of the premium adjustment on the passengers would be at less than 10 sen per passenger per trip.
Abu Hassan said the adjustments in motor insurance premiums will be reviewed periodically to ensure that they continue to be reflective of the claims history of the vehicle owners.
He noted that Malaysia has one of the highest numbers of registered vehicles in the world at 19 million, and highest rates of accidents and deaths from motor accidents in the region.
Over the last 30 years, accident rate and claims in Malaysia have risen significantly, along with costs in hospitalisation, medical expenses, vehicle repairs and spare parts, he added.
Since the announcement of the New Motor Cover Framework last March, five measures have been implemented while six more are expected to be completed by the first half of this year.
Abu Hassan said since the implementation of the new measures, the average claims settlement period has been reduced to about 400 days or 15 months compared to 600 days before.
The target, he said, is to reduce it to between six and 18 months, adding that "if we could achieve 18 months, we might tighten it further".
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 7 January 2012
Today’s Pick (09/01/12/005/696)
THE gradual revision to motor insurance premiums under the New Motor Cover Framework will begin on January 16.
The is the first time motor insurance premiums are being revised after more than 30 years.
The adjustments are said to be marginal but the overall outcome will see those with a higher risk profile paying a bomb in their insurance premiums, while good drivers will be rewarded with lower rates, said Bank Negara Malaysia assistant governor Abu Hassan Alshari Yahaya.
Briefing the media here yesterday, he said the premium revision isin a small quantum and will be implemented gradually over four years.
"The implication on the members of the public and businesses will be marginal," he said, adding that premium adjustments will be smaller for categories of vehicles commonly used by the lower income group.
He said consumers can contact their respective insurers or agents for the exact quantum of the increase.
The new framework, first announced last March, is aimed prima-rily at addressing structural issues within the motor insurance sector.
It will pave the way for detariffing of motor insurance premiums in 2016, in which rates will be further differentiated in accordance to the risk profile of individual vehicles and be fairer to vehicle owners.
Abu Hassan said that the gradual premiums adjustment is to coincide with the improvements to the national transportation system expected in 2015, by when the public is anticipated to favour public transportation over their own vehicles.
Citing an example of the quantum of increase in premium, the assistant governor said for third-party cover, motorcyles of 110cc will see an increase of between RM1 and RM3.50 a year over the next four years, or a maximum of 30 sen a month.
For a private car of 1,400cc, the premium adjustment will be between RM6 and RM34 a year over the same period.
For commercial vehicles such as outstation taxis and buses, the impact of the premium adjustment on the passengers would be at less than 10 sen per passenger per trip.
Abu Hassan said the adjustments in motor insurance premiums will be reviewed periodically to ensure that they continue to be reflective of the claims history of the vehicle owners.
He noted that Malaysia has one of the highest numbers of registered vehicles in the world at 19 million, and highest rates of accidents and deaths from motor accidents in the region.
Over the last 30 years, accident rate and claims in Malaysia have risen significantly, along with costs in hospitalisation, medical expenses, vehicle repairs and spare parts, he added.
Since the announcement of the New Motor Cover Framework last March, five measures have been implemented while six more are expected to be completed by the first half of this year.
Abu Hassan said since the implementation of the new measures, the average claims settlement period has been reduced to about 400 days or 15 months compared to 600 days before.
The target, he said, is to reduce it to between six and 18 months, adding that "if we could achieve 18 months, we might tighten it further".
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 7 January 2012
Today’s Pick (09/01/12/005/696)
Afternoon Highlight (06/01/12/004/479) 5% growth achievable by M'sia
5% growth achievable by M'sia
AmResearch says 2012 GDP target can be met on roll-out of ETP projects
PETALING JAYA: The country's gross domestic product (GDP) growth is expected to grow 5% on a year-on-year basis with domestic demand, in the form of private consumption and investment, to support growth in the quarters ahead despite lower exports and external uncertainties.
AmResearch Sdn Bhd director of economic research Manokaran Mottain said in a report that a 5% growth would be sustainable supported by the implementation of the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) projects that had been announced last year as well as a further roll-out of new projects identified for this year.
He said in the worst-case scenario, GDP growth could range between 4% and 4.5% should the euro zone crisis lead to a systemic failure in global financial markets and developed countries falling into a recession.
“Fiscal policy will also play an important role in the country's performance, though the Government is still committed to prudence management without destabilising growth momentum,” Manokaran said.
The Government has committed under Budget 2012 to reduce the fiscal deficit to 4.7% of GDP this year, from an estimated 5.4% of GDP in 2011.
Manokaran said the implementation of the ETP projects would encourage growth across other sectors of the economy with the multiplier effects to be seen in the construction and manufacturing sectors.
“As activities in these sectors increase, higher employment and income prospects will further push domestic demand and thus, overall GDP growth is expected to rise in tandem,” he said.
Although there would be broad-based growth, Manokaran said services would expand by 6.2% supported by the increasing demand coming from the implementation of many ETP projects this year as well as strong private consumption, steady intra-Asian trade and increased tourist spending.
He said the manufacturing sector would likely see a more apparent slowdown, due to the impact of a weaker external demand and estimated the sector to grow by 3.6% while the construction sector was projected to grow 8.1% on the back of the Mass Rapid Transit, KLIA2 and development programmes in rural areas.
Manokaran said lower inflation levels (estimated to be between 2.5% and 3%) as well as favourable labour market conditions would also help to provide further support on the back of the potential decline in external demand.
He said Bank Negara might not cut the benchmark overnight policy rate (which stood at 3%) this year given the robust levels of GDP growth as well as the potential threat of rising inflation (due to continued rise in food price inflation).
Manorakan expects the ringgit to end the year at 3.10 to the US dollar on the back of the reduced risk appetite among foreign and local investors.
“Despite this, we remain optimistic that the appreciation trend will likely regain traction in 2012.
“Notwithstanding the recent depreciation, most currencies in the region continue to be deemed as undervalued, given the relatively strong growth potential as well as robust levels of private capital inflows,” he said.
Source : The Star
Date : 6 January 2012
Afternoon Highlight (06/01/12/004/477)
AmResearch says 2012 GDP target can be met on roll-out of ETP projects
PETALING JAYA: The country's gross domestic product (GDP) growth is expected to grow 5% on a year-on-year basis with domestic demand, in the form of private consumption and investment, to support growth in the quarters ahead despite lower exports and external uncertainties.
AmResearch Sdn Bhd director of economic research Manokaran Mottain said in a report that a 5% growth would be sustainable supported by the implementation of the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) projects that had been announced last year as well as a further roll-out of new projects identified for this year.
He said in the worst-case scenario, GDP growth could range between 4% and 4.5% should the euro zone crisis lead to a systemic failure in global financial markets and developed countries falling into a recession.
“Fiscal policy will also play an important role in the country's performance, though the Government is still committed to prudence management without destabilising growth momentum,” Manokaran said.
The Government has committed under Budget 2012 to reduce the fiscal deficit to 4.7% of GDP this year, from an estimated 5.4% of GDP in 2011.
Manokaran said the implementation of the ETP projects would encourage growth across other sectors of the economy with the multiplier effects to be seen in the construction and manufacturing sectors.
“As activities in these sectors increase, higher employment and income prospects will further push domestic demand and thus, overall GDP growth is expected to rise in tandem,” he said.
Although there would be broad-based growth, Manokaran said services would expand by 6.2% supported by the increasing demand coming from the implementation of many ETP projects this year as well as strong private consumption, steady intra-Asian trade and increased tourist spending.
He said the manufacturing sector would likely see a more apparent slowdown, due to the impact of a weaker external demand and estimated the sector to grow by 3.6% while the construction sector was projected to grow 8.1% on the back of the Mass Rapid Transit, KLIA2 and development programmes in rural areas.
Manokaran said lower inflation levels (estimated to be between 2.5% and 3%) as well as favourable labour market conditions would also help to provide further support on the back of the potential decline in external demand.
He said Bank Negara might not cut the benchmark overnight policy rate (which stood at 3%) this year given the robust levels of GDP growth as well as the potential threat of rising inflation (due to continued rise in food price inflation).
Manorakan expects the ringgit to end the year at 3.10 to the US dollar on the back of the reduced risk appetite among foreign and local investors.
“Despite this, we remain optimistic that the appreciation trend will likely regain traction in 2012.
“Notwithstanding the recent depreciation, most currencies in the region continue to be deemed as undervalued, given the relatively strong growth potential as well as robust levels of private capital inflows,” he said.
Source : The Star
Date : 6 January 2012
Afternoon Highlight (06/01/12/004/477)
Today’s Pick (06/01/004/696) Sektor pembinaan 2012 kekal rancak
Sektor pembinaan 2012 kekal rancak
MRT, kerja tambahan bangunkan KLIA2 antara projek berskala besar ditawarkan kerajaan
SEKTOR pembinaan akan terus rancak tahun ini dengan menyaksikan pelbagai kontrak bernilai RM14 bilion ditawarkan kepada kontraktor tempatan.
Ia adalah peningkatan 18 peratus berbanding sejumlah RM11.9 bilion yang dianugerahkan tahun lalu.
Kontrak yang akan dianugerahkan tahun ini itu adalah gabungan kerja baru serta sambungan kerja sedia ada yang akan diumumkan kerajaan dan pemilik projek dalam tempoh terdekat ini.
Mengikut pemerhati industri, antara projek berskala besar pertama yang akan diberikan pada 2012 ini ialah My Rapid Transit (MRT) membabitkan beberapa fasa kerja pembinaan bertingkat bagi laluan Sungai Buloh-Kajang (SBK) serta kerja bahagian atas pakej V5 dan V6 dengan nilai terkumpul kira-kira RM12 bilion.
Kontrak lain ialah kerja tambahan projek pembangunan terminal tambang murah di KLIA2 (RM1.94 bilion).
Pemberian kontrak bagi kerja laluan SBK serta pakej V5 dan V6 dijangka dibuat oleh pemilik projek itu, MRT Corporation (Corp) kepada kontraktor yang layak antara Februari dan Mac ini.
Kontrak kerja tambahan projek KLIA2 pula akan diberikan pada bila-bila dalam separuh pertama tahun ini.
November lalu, pemilik projek KLIA2, Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) berkata, kerja tambahan projek itu tercetus susulan perubahan dalam beberapa pakej kerja sedia adanya, bertujuan bagi melengkapkannya dengan kemudahan dan ciri kelengkapan untuk sebuah terminal lapangan terbang kelas dunia.
Antara lain, ia termasuk perubahan dalam pembinaan terminal bangunan utama yang membabitkan kerja pembesaran ruang bernilai RM420 juta; terminal pesawat (RM160 juta); pemanjangan landasan, laluan teksi dan sistem AGL (RM180 juta); penambahan kerja fizikal (RM670 juta), jambatan udara (RM120 juta), menaik taraf kemudahan menara kawalan trafik udara (RM130 juta) dan pembinaan infrastruktur awam lain (RM260 juta).
Susulan perubahan kerja berkenaan, tarikh siap projek itu turut dianjakkan daripada Oktober 2012 kepada tarikh baru, iaitu pada April 2013.
Penganalisis di OSK Research, Jeremy Goh menjangkakan momentum kerja akan mulai rancak bermula suku pertama ini.
“Sebagai contoh, kerja bahagian atas pakej V5 dan V6 yang setiap satunya bernilai antara RM500 hingga RM600 juta, dijangka diberikan sama ada pada Februari atau Mac ini dan semua ini bakal mencetuskan permulaan nada positif dalam sektor pembinaan tempatan tahun ini,” katanya.
Pakej V5 adalah kerja pembinaan bahagian atas bagi laluan dari Taman Bukit Ria ke Plaza Phoenix di Cheras yang turut membabitkan pembinaan empat stesen, sementara Pakej V6 pula adalah laluan dari Plaza Phoenix hingga ke Bandar Tun Hussein Onn dengan pembinaan tiga stesen.
Dalam pada itu, Pengarah Urusan Gamuda Group, Datuk Lin Yun Ling ketika ditemui baru-baru ini, turut melahirkan keyakinan bahawa industri pembinaan tempatan kekal cergas tahun ini.
“Tahun 2012 ini adalah fasa pemerolehan bagi projek MRT dan saya fikir tender akan dikeluarkan bagi lebih daripada 50 pakej kerja, besar dan kecil, termasuk kerja bahagian bawah tanah, pembinaan aras tinggi dan kerja awam, stesen, kemudahan parkir dan pengangkutan serta pakej sistem,” katanya.
Source: Berita Harian
Date : 5 January 2012
Today’s Pick (06/01/004/695)
MRT, kerja tambahan bangunkan KLIA2 antara projek berskala besar ditawarkan kerajaan
SEKTOR pembinaan akan terus rancak tahun ini dengan menyaksikan pelbagai kontrak bernilai RM14 bilion ditawarkan kepada kontraktor tempatan.
Ia adalah peningkatan 18 peratus berbanding sejumlah RM11.9 bilion yang dianugerahkan tahun lalu.
Kontrak yang akan dianugerahkan tahun ini itu adalah gabungan kerja baru serta sambungan kerja sedia ada yang akan diumumkan kerajaan dan pemilik projek dalam tempoh terdekat ini.
Mengikut pemerhati industri, antara projek berskala besar pertama yang akan diberikan pada 2012 ini ialah My Rapid Transit (MRT) membabitkan beberapa fasa kerja pembinaan bertingkat bagi laluan Sungai Buloh-Kajang (SBK) serta kerja bahagian atas pakej V5 dan V6 dengan nilai terkumpul kira-kira RM12 bilion.
Kontrak lain ialah kerja tambahan projek pembangunan terminal tambang murah di KLIA2 (RM1.94 bilion).
Pemberian kontrak bagi kerja laluan SBK serta pakej V5 dan V6 dijangka dibuat oleh pemilik projek itu, MRT Corporation (Corp) kepada kontraktor yang layak antara Februari dan Mac ini.
Kontrak kerja tambahan projek KLIA2 pula akan diberikan pada bila-bila dalam separuh pertama tahun ini.
November lalu, pemilik projek KLIA2, Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) berkata, kerja tambahan projek itu tercetus susulan perubahan dalam beberapa pakej kerja sedia adanya, bertujuan bagi melengkapkannya dengan kemudahan dan ciri kelengkapan untuk sebuah terminal lapangan terbang kelas dunia.
Antara lain, ia termasuk perubahan dalam pembinaan terminal bangunan utama yang membabitkan kerja pembesaran ruang bernilai RM420 juta; terminal pesawat (RM160 juta); pemanjangan landasan, laluan teksi dan sistem AGL (RM180 juta); penambahan kerja fizikal (RM670 juta), jambatan udara (RM120 juta), menaik taraf kemudahan menara kawalan trafik udara (RM130 juta) dan pembinaan infrastruktur awam lain (RM260 juta).
Susulan perubahan kerja berkenaan, tarikh siap projek itu turut dianjakkan daripada Oktober 2012 kepada tarikh baru, iaitu pada April 2013.
Penganalisis di OSK Research, Jeremy Goh menjangkakan momentum kerja akan mulai rancak bermula suku pertama ini.
“Sebagai contoh, kerja bahagian atas pakej V5 dan V6 yang setiap satunya bernilai antara RM500 hingga RM600 juta, dijangka diberikan sama ada pada Februari atau Mac ini dan semua ini bakal mencetuskan permulaan nada positif dalam sektor pembinaan tempatan tahun ini,” katanya.
Pakej V5 adalah kerja pembinaan bahagian atas bagi laluan dari Taman Bukit Ria ke Plaza Phoenix di Cheras yang turut membabitkan pembinaan empat stesen, sementara Pakej V6 pula adalah laluan dari Plaza Phoenix hingga ke Bandar Tun Hussein Onn dengan pembinaan tiga stesen.
Dalam pada itu, Pengarah Urusan Gamuda Group, Datuk Lin Yun Ling ketika ditemui baru-baru ini, turut melahirkan keyakinan bahawa industri pembinaan tempatan kekal cergas tahun ini.
“Tahun 2012 ini adalah fasa pemerolehan bagi projek MRT dan saya fikir tender akan dikeluarkan bagi lebih daripada 50 pakej kerja, besar dan kecil, termasuk kerja bahagian bawah tanah, pembinaan aras tinggi dan kerja awam, stesen, kemudahan parkir dan pengangkutan serta pakej sistem,” katanya.
Source: Berita Harian
Date : 5 January 2012
Today’s Pick (06/01/004/695)
Afternoon Highlight (05/01/12/003/478) Pasar raya PKS pertama
Pasar raya PKS pertama
KUALA LUMPUR 4 Jan. – Pasar raya khas untuk pengusaha industri kecil dan sederhana (PKS) bernilai lebih RM100 juta dan pertama seumpamanya di Malaysia, MYagro Hypermarket bakal beroperasi Jumaat ini.
Ia juga akan menempatkan Kedai Ikan Rakyat 1Malaysia (KIR1M), kata Pengarah Urusan Jamal Jaya Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (Jamal Jaya), Datuk Jamal Md. Yunos.
Pasar raya khas berkeluasan 25,000 meter persegi itu ditempatkan di Dewan D, tapak Pameran Pertanian, Hortikultur dan Agro Pelancongan Antarabangsa (MAHA) di Serdang, dekat sini.
Jamal yang juga pengendali MYagro Hypermarket berkata, pasar raya tersebut akan menjadi platform terbaik untuk PKS tempatan mempromosikan produk mereka secara berterusan sepanjang tahun.
Katanya, MYagro Hypermarket dijangka menawarkan 13,000 produk keperluan harian daripada 5,000 usahawan PKS.
“Kami juga membuka cawangan kedua KIR1M yang jauh lebih besar daripada cawangan pertama di Setiawangsa bagi memberi lebih kemudahan kepada pengunjung.
“MYagro Hypermarket akan menjadi pusat sehenti bagi orang ramai memperoleh pelbagai barangan keperluan harian yang murah dan sukar diperolehi di pasar raya lain,’’ katanya kepada Utusan Malaysia di sini.
Jamal berkata, MYagro Hypermarket diwujudkan bagi membantu usahawan PKS tempatan dengan memasarkan produk mereka terus kepada pelanggan tanpa melalui orang tengah dan dibenarkan menggunakan jenama sendiri.
“Saya berharap orang ramai dapat hadir ke MYagro Hypermarket bagi membantu usahawan PKS tempatan meningkatkan jualan mereka dan saya yakin jika mendapat sokongan, lebih banyak produk PKS berkualiti dapat dihasilkan pada masa depan,’’ jelasnya.
MYagro Hypermarket akan dibuka dari pukul 9 pagi hingga 10 malam dan lebih 5,000 ruang letak kereta disediakan untuk keselesaan pelanggan.
Tambah Jamal lagi, pihaknya masih membuka pintu kepada usahawan PKS lain yang mahu menyertai MYagro Hypermarket dan permohonan boleh dibuat terus di pasar raya berkenaan.
“Kami sangat menggalakkan kehadiran produk dari industri kecil-kecilan di kawasan kampung bagi meningkatkan pilihan dan keunikan di MYagro Hypermarket,’’ ujarnya.
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 4 January 2011
Afternoon Highlight (05/01/12/003/476)
KUALA LUMPUR 4 Jan. – Pasar raya khas untuk pengusaha industri kecil dan sederhana (PKS) bernilai lebih RM100 juta dan pertama seumpamanya di Malaysia, MYagro Hypermarket bakal beroperasi Jumaat ini.
Ia juga akan menempatkan Kedai Ikan Rakyat 1Malaysia (KIR1M), kata Pengarah Urusan Jamal Jaya Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (Jamal Jaya), Datuk Jamal Md. Yunos.
Pasar raya khas berkeluasan 25,000 meter persegi itu ditempatkan di Dewan D, tapak Pameran Pertanian, Hortikultur dan Agro Pelancongan Antarabangsa (MAHA) di Serdang, dekat sini.
Jamal yang juga pengendali MYagro Hypermarket berkata, pasar raya tersebut akan menjadi platform terbaik untuk PKS tempatan mempromosikan produk mereka secara berterusan sepanjang tahun.
Katanya, MYagro Hypermarket dijangka menawarkan 13,000 produk keperluan harian daripada 5,000 usahawan PKS.
“Kami juga membuka cawangan kedua KIR1M yang jauh lebih besar daripada cawangan pertama di Setiawangsa bagi memberi lebih kemudahan kepada pengunjung.
“MYagro Hypermarket akan menjadi pusat sehenti bagi orang ramai memperoleh pelbagai barangan keperluan harian yang murah dan sukar diperolehi di pasar raya lain,’’ katanya kepada Utusan Malaysia di sini.
Jamal berkata, MYagro Hypermarket diwujudkan bagi membantu usahawan PKS tempatan dengan memasarkan produk mereka terus kepada pelanggan tanpa melalui orang tengah dan dibenarkan menggunakan jenama sendiri.
“Saya berharap orang ramai dapat hadir ke MYagro Hypermarket bagi membantu usahawan PKS tempatan meningkatkan jualan mereka dan saya yakin jika mendapat sokongan, lebih banyak produk PKS berkualiti dapat dihasilkan pada masa depan,’’ jelasnya.
MYagro Hypermarket akan dibuka dari pukul 9 pagi hingga 10 malam dan lebih 5,000 ruang letak kereta disediakan untuk keselesaan pelanggan.
Tambah Jamal lagi, pihaknya masih membuka pintu kepada usahawan PKS lain yang mahu menyertai MYagro Hypermarket dan permohonan boleh dibuat terus di pasar raya berkenaan.
“Kami sangat menggalakkan kehadiran produk dari industri kecil-kecilan di kawasan kampung bagi meningkatkan pilihan dan keunikan di MYagro Hypermarket,’’ ujarnya.
Source : Utusan Malaysia
Date : 4 January 2011
Afternoon Highlight (05/01/12/003/476)
Today’s Pick (05/01/12/003/695) LivingSocial enters Malaysia online shopping market
LivingSocial enters Malaysia online shopping market
ONE of the world’s largest social shopping sites, Everyday.com.my is now part of a strong brand — LivingSocial — and aims to reach out to more customers and rope in more merchants.
In a statement yesterday, LivingSocial said it is set to offer bargain-hunting Malaysians stimulating online experiences where deals with discounts of 50 per cent or more are available on a daily basis.
Everyday.com.my chief executive officer Edwin Wang said the concept of online deals is on the verge of taking Malaysia by storm.
“Now that Everyday.com.my is part of a strong brand like LivingSocial, we are in the best market position to deliver the best experience to our members and the best value to our merchants,” said Wang.
LivingSocial’s entry into Malaysia is made possible through its recent acquisition of Korea’s largest daily deal site TicketMonster, which has already established its presence in the country via the leading group-buying site in Malaysia, Everyday.com.my.
Everyday.com.my has extensive and wide-reaching customer base. It set a new benchmark for the group buying industry in May when a hotel buffet deal of over 10,000 vouchers sold out within 25 hours.
They further topped the deals list when they sold more than 2,500 vouchers for a local escape package.
It offers daily location-specific deals covering a wide spectrum of experiences ranging from cafés to restaurants, hotel stays, spa and beauty, tour packages, car care services, sports and fitness and more.
As part of the LivingSocial family and its culture of fun, innovative and being customer-focused, customers and merchants alike will get to enjoy even more value-added benefits.
While most deals are currently being offered in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, Kedah and Penang, plans are already under way to expand the deal offerings to other major cities across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.
On the other hand, Everyday.com.my merchants would have the opportunity to reach new and loyal customers outside of Malaysia via LivingSocial’s wide international network sites.
For instance, merchants offer travel products and hotel rooms on Everyday.com.my could also list their deals on all deals sites under the LivingSocial family in the Asian region.
These sites include Ensogo Thailand and Philippines, DealKeren Indonesia and TicketMonster Korea.
LivingSocial is currently present in 25 countries, with a huge customer database of 46 million.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 4 January 2012
Today’s Pick (05/01/12/003/694)
ONE of the world’s largest social shopping sites, Everyday.com.my is now part of a strong brand — LivingSocial — and aims to reach out to more customers and rope in more merchants.
In a statement yesterday, LivingSocial said it is set to offer bargain-hunting Malaysians stimulating online experiences where deals with discounts of 50 per cent or more are available on a daily basis.
Everyday.com.my chief executive officer Edwin Wang said the concept of online deals is on the verge of taking Malaysia by storm.
“Now that Everyday.com.my is part of a strong brand like LivingSocial, we are in the best market position to deliver the best experience to our members and the best value to our merchants,” said Wang.
LivingSocial’s entry into Malaysia is made possible through its recent acquisition of Korea’s largest daily deal site TicketMonster, which has already established its presence in the country via the leading group-buying site in Malaysia, Everyday.com.my.
Everyday.com.my has extensive and wide-reaching customer base. It set a new benchmark for the group buying industry in May when a hotel buffet deal of over 10,000 vouchers sold out within 25 hours.
They further topped the deals list when they sold more than 2,500 vouchers for a local escape package.
It offers daily location-specific deals covering a wide spectrum of experiences ranging from cafés to restaurants, hotel stays, spa and beauty, tour packages, car care services, sports and fitness and more.
As part of the LivingSocial family and its culture of fun, innovative and being customer-focused, customers and merchants alike will get to enjoy even more value-added benefits.
While most deals are currently being offered in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, Kedah and Penang, plans are already under way to expand the deal offerings to other major cities across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.
On the other hand, Everyday.com.my merchants would have the opportunity to reach new and loyal customers outside of Malaysia via LivingSocial’s wide international network sites.
For instance, merchants offer travel products and hotel rooms on Everyday.com.my could also list their deals on all deals sites under the LivingSocial family in the Asian region.
These sites include Ensogo Thailand and Philippines, DealKeren Indonesia and TicketMonster Korea.
LivingSocial is currently present in 25 countries, with a huge customer database of 46 million.
Source : New Straits Times
Date : 4 January 2012
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