JOHOR BARU: A multi-agency task force will be set up by the Johor government to protect local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and ensure they benefit from opportunities brought in by foreign investments, says Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
The Johor Mentri Besar said the decision came amid concerns that tourists were abusing their social visit passes to take up jobs and conduct business in the state, which are squeezing opportunities for local businesses.
The proposed task force would be led by investment, trade, consumer affairs and human resources committee chairman Lee Ting Han, health and environment committee chairman Ling Tian Soon, and housing and local government committee chairman Datuk Mohd Jafni Md Shukor, he added.
“The task force would involve the Finance Ministry, local authorities and the Immigration Department to ensure coordinated enforcement.
“This is needed as Johor continues to attract strong foreign direct investment. We know that when investors come, the economy grows and many young people get job opportunities... but it also comes with challenges.
“There are SMEs who voiced their concerns about whether they can compete,” he said, adding that there was little point in drawing high levels of investment if locals did not benefit.
Onn Hafiz was speaking at a Chinese New Year dinner with about 1,400 members of the Chinese community at Southern University College (Southern UC) on Friday night.
He added that while the state welcomes foreign investments, efforts must be taken to “protect our people”.
He said some come to Malaysia and Johor as tourists but abuse their social visit passes.
“Stern action will also be taken against those who abuse their social visit passes,” he added.
Onn Hafiz also said major developments in the pipeline, including the Rapid Transit System Link, which is expected to be completed next year, and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone blueprint and master plan to be finalised within two to three months, would spur further growth.
He called for unity among the Bangsa Johor in developing the state.
“The state government remains colour-blind in our policies, and I am unapologetic about assisting people no matter their race and background on issues that matter such as education, welfare and the economy,” he said.
During the event, Onn Hafiz presented a state allocation of RM1mil to Southern UC board chairman Datuk Vincent Tan Meng Seng.
