Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai (left) at the press conference in Wisma MCA. With him is Chong Sin Woon. -CHAN TAK KONG/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: MCA will seek the views of various industry practitioners in formulating 10 strategic economic directions for the nation.
MCA president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, who is Transport Minister, said the feedback was crucial to help turn around the country's economy.
Liow said the 10 focus groups, comprising professionals and experts, had been formed to have a synthesis of the best ideas.
As a component party of the Barisan Nasional, he said, the MCA was committed to creating a better future for all Malaysians.
"For a start, we will be organising a conference entitled Mapping 10 Economic Strategic Directions.
"These 10 economic directions represent the past, present and future of Malaysia," he told a press conference in Wisma MCA here.
Present were deputy president Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong, MCA Youth chief Chong Sin Woon and the wing's secretary-general Datuk Leong Kim Soon.
Liow said the initiative enable the country to be competitive in various fields and explore new opportunities.
"The public can take part in the conference and give constructive ideas and suggestions.
"Public opinion is crucial to further improve the economic directions which will become the root of co-operation between MCA and society," he said.
Liow said the feedback would be presented to the Government to become part of the national development policy.
He said continuous efforts would also be made to attract more foreign investors, especially from China.
"We would also look into ways to encourage Malaysian companies overseas to invest back home.
"At the same time, MCA will work closely with the Chinese community to promote cross-cultural co-operation," he said.
The focus groups include areas of modern agriculture, neo-urbanisation, roads, vocational education and training, wood-based industry, small traders, tourism, information technology, logistics and financing.
The conference will be held this Saturday (Sept 5) at Dewan San Choon, Wisma MCA, from 9am to 6pm.
Liow will deliver an opening address during the launching while Dr Wee will attend the closing ceremony.
Admission is free. For registration, contact 03-2203 3866.
Limited time offer:
Just RM5 per month.
