THE 16th Malaysian National Economic Conference (PERKEM 16) which is organised by the Faculty of Economics and Management Universiti Kebangsaaan Malaysia, was officially launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at The Light Hotel today.
The conference which will be held until tomorrow (Aug 4 to 6), is themed ‘Resilience and Inclusiveness in Driving Economic Recovery in the Era of Geo-Political Uncertainty’.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was also present, said that the theme of the conference is in line with the Penang2030 vision launched in 2018, aimed at uplifting the economy as well as improving household income in the state.
“In line with the Penang2030 vision, the state government has also initiated the Penang SEED (Strategy for Economic Ecosystem Development, 2023 – 2028).
“This is a strategy to reposition the state’s economy to achieve higher development momentum in the next five years, as well as aiming for dynamic, equitable, and inclusive prosperity for all Penangites.
“Towards 2030, the state government is confident in making Penang a model city for Malaysia and the world, focusing on three main aspirations which are; Family, Green, and Smart State,” Chow said in his speech during the event.
Chow also said that the conference provided a platform for all participants to discuss and share ideas, and propose resolutions pertaining to global economic uncertainties post-Covid-19 pandemic and the current geo-political crisis faced by Malaysia.
“The Penang government fully supports such efforts, and I suggest that all discussions and insights from this conference be documented for the reference of various parties, including the Federal Government and the state government.
“The documentation can be made into concrete and inclusive economic action plans,” Chow said.
Meanwhile, Anwar said that economic growth should not marginalise any layers of society.
“According to the Madani economy, which also aligns with the theme of this conference, resilience, and inclusiveness are crucial to ensure those who lack the space and opportunities to compete in a fair manner are not sidelined,” Anwar said.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi