New FSI boss seeks more allocations for SMEs
Published on: Tuesday, December 01, 2015
Kota Kinabalu: Newly installed Federation of Sabah Industries (FSI) President Datuk Mohd Basri Abd Gafar has called for more allocations to be given to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the State."If I have a small wish from the (State) budget I would wish that more allocations be given to SMEs. SMEs are the backbone of the State economy and over 80 per cent are FSI members. These are the small guys who need financial assistance for innovation and also production of their products," he said.He said this in his installation speech during the 32nd Anniversary FSI dinner at Hakka Hall on Sunday.ADVERTISEMENT "The realisation of Asean as an integrated economic community has opened the door for potential benefits for SMEs in the region including those in the state as they are no longer constrained by their national borders."He said his presidency will focus on several key initiatives the first is establishment of the logistic council which is linked with the cabotage policy issue which FSI will pursue and the second initiative is the revival of the 'Buy Sabah Product' campaign."The Sabah International Expo (SIE) which has already become synonymous with FSI remains one of the biggest platforms to promote the State to the world. "I am pleased to announce that Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) has given us the undertaking to bring as many as 200 international buyers for SIE 2016 to be held September next year.ADVERTISEMENT "We would be putting in the effort to create more market links and organising related events to promote our products to local consumers as well as regional markets."Basri said this year onwards FSI with its new team of council members comprised many young and dynamic professionals and active industry players.
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He said following their AGM in June last year, a restructuring exercise was conducted which saw the creation of six major focus areas i.e. Membership and M.I.C.E, Public Policy and Training, Food and Beverage, Logistics, Machinery and auto/autoparts, building and building materials and Oil and Gas, Packaging and Printing etc."Each one represents the portfolio of six vice presidents and we have also created the post of deputy president for industry relations and general affairs."