Call for more aid for minority Bumis in business

More assistance ought to be given to minority Bumiputeras, such as Dayaks in Sarawak and Kadazandusuns in Sabah, in their business ventures which have been badly affected by the hike in prices of fuel and materials.

Dayak Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) president Tan Sri Leo Moggie said this at the DCCI-KCCI (Kadazan Dusun Chamber of Commerce and Industry) joint Gawai-Kaamatan celebration yesterday

Among the steps and measures the government should consider is reviewing contracts awarded to entrepreneurs facing financial difficulties, who might be forced to abandon their projects.

Moggie said due to the hike in prices of fuel and materials, many had been forced to abandon their fields and farming activities.

“New economic policies are still essential and must be implemented because we know they help us venture into new fields. More emphasis should be given to Sabah and Sarawak as they are still a little bit behind,” he said.

He, however, reminded them not to discredit what have been done by the federal government and achieved through the implementation of development programmes and activities.

“A lot have been achieved and much done although there might be some handicap in certain areas, and this demands some review.”

Moggie said to be on par and survive the challenge, DCCI and KCCI, as umbrella organisations for respective members of the community, must encourage members to venture into business and industry.

Calling them to come out from their cocoon of traditional farming and hunting, he urged them not to be shy or ashamed although they could be still lagging behind others in the business world.

“I know our strong farming background. The world of business is new thing for us, it is something we need to learn and want to participate in,” he said.

Moggie said the event provided an opportunity for members to exchange goodwill, cultural experience and general networking.

Equally important would be the need to put into practice the call by the government for greater national unity and integration through intermingling and interacting during a joint cultural festival of this nature.

“The Dayaks of Sarawak and the Kadazandusuns of Sabah share many socio-economic and cultural similarities. Both communities also have similar aspirations,” Moggie said, calling for both chambers to strengthen their unity, cooperation and better understanding for mutual benefit.