AFFIRMATIVE ACTIONS TO CONTINUE UNDER ETP, SAYS MINISTER

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 21 (Bernama) -- Affirmative actions will continue under the
Economic Transformation Programme (ETP), but they will be redefined to become
more transparent and fair, says Minister in the Prime Minister's Department
Idris Jala.

He said what was enshrined in the constitution would remain.

He said Bumiputeras (sons of the soil) who don't need help must compete on a
level-playing field with non-Bumiputeras.

"That is how we become strong as a nation," he told a press conference at the
ETP Open Day here Tuesday.

Asked on how successful Bumiputeras are now, Idris, who is also chief executive
officer of the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (PEMANDU), said the
government did not pick a winner but instead would ensure the rules and
regulations were clear.

Meanwhile, the ETP aims to almost triple the country's Gross National Income
(GNI) from RM660 billion in 2009 to RM1.7 trillion in 2020, which translates
into an increase of GNI per capita from RM23,700 to at least RM48,000.
(US$1=RM3.10)

The country is expected to grow its gross domestic product at six per cent every
year between 2011 and 2020 to achieve the targeted GNI.

On minimum wage, Idris said that it would be implemented, but the
question would be on the type of modalities needed.

He said there were many conflicting interests and there were also ideas to have
this implemented on a regional or sectoral basis.

The Key Performance Indicator for the Human Resources Minister Dr S. Subramaniam
was to have the minimum wage ready by next year, he said.

On Malaysia Talent Corporation, which is supposed to attract Malaysian
professionals overseas back to the country, Idris said the government was still
looking for a chief executive officer and a team to run it.

He said Malaysia should also not be shy to bring in good quality expatriates to
contribute to the national economy.

"In the global economy, we need to have the best talents to help us move the
country forward.

"I would like to see as many Malaysians filling up the 3.3 million jobs created
under the ETP. We've to look for ways and means such as the Malaysian diaspora
(Malaysians working overseas) and (bring in) expatriates," he added.
-- BERNAMA



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