PAPAR: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has proposed that issues related to the influx of imported goods and the misuse of social visit passes be included in the terms of reference of a special task force led by the Finance Ministry.
Its Minister, Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, said the proposal was raised during a post-Cabinet meeting yesterday to ensure that concerns faced by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are addressed comprehensively.
He said the influx of foreign goods into the local market, whether through e-commerce platforms or imports by foreign and local investors, has had a negative impact on the domestic products market.
"Although the government encourages the purchase and use of local products, we are seeing a growing trend of imported goods entering the market, particularly due to their lower prices," he said on Saturday (Feb 7).
He said this after officiating the opening of shoplot buildings at Kinarut Palm Avenue here today, which was also attended by Kawang assemblyman Datuk Ghulam Haidar Khan Bahadar, Limbahau assemblyman Datuk Juil Nuatim, and WSG group managing director Datuk Susan Wong.
On Friday (Feb 6), government spokesperson Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said a task force would be established to address the misuse of social visit passes, to be coordinated by the Finance Ministry.
Fahmi said the task force would comprise members from the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry, Home Ministry, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Ministry and Housing and Local Government Ministry.
Armizan, who is also the Papar Member of Parliament, said the issue goes beyond price competition, encompassing security, quality and compliance standards of imported goods, which could undermine the sustainability of local MSMEs.
As such, establishing the task force is crucial to coordinate actions across legal, policy, enforcement, and monitoring functions involving multiple ministries and agencies.
He added that the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry would provide full cooperation, as one of the ministry's key responsibilities is to ensure the sustainability and health of the domestic market while prioritising local products.
In a related development, he also proposed that the Sabah government, together with the relevant federal ministries, take a closer look at foreign investment in the tourism sector in the state.
Armizan said preliminary reports indicate that about 81 resorts, chalets and accommodation premises in Semporna are operated through joint ventures between foreign investors and local companies, while some are fully owned by foreign firms.
"Foreign investment is welcomed, but a comprehensive study needs to be conducted to assess the real benefits to the state and local communities, including economic contributions and long-term impacts on the local tourism industry," he said. – Bernama
