PENANGITES and business stakeholders in the state are hopeful of a vibrant and caring budget next year.
From global issues such as US-China trade war to caring for the disabled, these matters affecting the people’s livelihood were discussed when Buletin Mutiara conducted a brief interview session with a few of them.
Penang Chinese Chamber of Commerce (PCCC) vice-president Datuk Finn Choong expressed his hopes that the state’s expenses for next year could be reduced due to the current market outlook.
Choong, who is also economic expert, said the market is expected to see a slow progress next year due to the ongoing US-China trade war, which has affected the manufacturing industry.
He said the uncertainty of market due to the long-term trade war must be taken into account as well before coming out with a constructive budget.
“Penang, as one of the advanced states in the country, should be well prepared for any of this uncertainties.
“We have to generate our own growth to ensure that all the industries in the state remain relevant.
“As a frontliner state, the budget must include reasonable allocations to be given out especially during the anticipated recession,” he said.
Choong said the non-productive expenses should also be trimmed while hoping that the allocations would be given to the needy ones.
Penang Importer and Exporters Association honorary secretary Chris Tan Chee Kean said state could focus on the development of smart and environmentally friendly buildings.
He said Penang still has plenty of space to develop itself and its surroundings.
“Penang can emulate the development of the country to build more public facilities, especially for the disabled to ensure that they can easily live in the city.
“At same time, tourism in the state can also be promoted to greater heights to attract tourists,” he added.
Visually impaired Johari Saad, 48, when met, expressed his hopes that the state could provide a special allocation, especially for the needy.
The masseur at the Blind Massage in Jalan Sungai Ujong said he hoped the state would contribute more of its welfare assistance to them in this current economic situation.
“Our income has dropped tremendously compared to last year. We could not work in any other places but to continue earning a living through our massage skills.
“We hope the state could pay attention to our needs by allocating more on our welfare. We sincerely appreciate the state’s efforts in assisting us all this while,” he added.
A taxi driver, known as Raja in his 50s, said he hoped the state would give them various incentives.
“I hope the incentive from RM600 could be increased to RM800 in view with the rising cost of living.
“The incentive of giving free tyres to taxi drivers should also be continued next year,” Raja said.
Budget 2019 is expected to be tabled by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow at the state Legislature Assembly sitting on Nov 1 in Dewan Sri Pinang.
Story by Edmund Lee