INCREASE BASIC, PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS TO STIMULATE ECONOMY, GOVT TOLD

By Azeman Ariffin

GEORGE TOWN (Penang, Malaysia), Aug 25 (Bernama) -- The Malay Contractors'
Association of Malaysia Wednesday asked the federal government to implement more
basic and public infrastructure projects to stimulate the economy and help Class
"F" contractors.

Deputy President Mohamed Fadzill (rpt Fadzill) Hassan said such projects have
reduced drastically since 2008, rendering many Class F contractors' companies to
become inactive while some have folded up.

He said there were 29,000 Bumiputera Class F contractors in the country and many
of them have to seek other jobs, including as security guards and fishermen, to
earn a living.

The number of projects awarded to Class F contractors was very few and even if
there was, the projects were offered through open tenders or by quotation only,
he said.

"We want the government to start giving out minor projects again and award
tenders by balloting for Class F contractors who play a crucial role to
jumpstart the economy," said Mohamed Fadzill, who is also the association's
Class F Contractors Bureau chairman, when contacted by Bernama Wednesday.

In Penang alone, 1,250 Class F contractors were jobless as they did not have any
projects and were doing odd-jobs for their livelihood, he said.

"The association is concerned if minor projects to be awarded to Class F
contractors continue to dwindle, it will not only affect the contractors'
progress and livelihood, but will also contribute to the country's sluggish
economy," he added.
-- BERNAMA