KOTA KINABALU – A 40% hike on shipping fee in Sabah ports is expected to impact consumers in the state, said Phoong Jin Zhe (Luyang-DAP).
Citing local news reports, Phoong noted that the hike, which will start next month, would have a chain effect on Sabah consumers and prices of imported goods.
He referenced a recent statement by the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers, which said that 80% of the local products are imported.
“If the state government does not take proactive steps, the cost of imported goods would also increase.
“It is hoped the state government would take steps to improve business and consumer confidence over this matter,” he said during his policy debate speech today.
On another note, Phoong said special sittings and formation of special committees should be formed to resolve crucial Sabah issues like Malaysia Agreement 1963, state rights, bad roads, water shortages and electricity.
He said such matters are apolitical and that assemblymen must have a unified stand in resolving these matters.
Phoong said this in responding to Datuk Jaujan Sambakong (Sulabayan-Warisan), who proposed the special sittings during Phoong’s policy debate speech.
“This is the time for us to have a consensus, and we have to empower the state assembly to discuss the people’s issues and resolve them in this assembly.
“With the setting up of the bi-partisan special select committee, we can resolve crucial issues like bad roads, irregular migrants, among others.
“This is in line with the Westminster parliamentary system,” he said, adding that the number of sitting days should also be extended for ample time to discuss all matters.
In general, Sabah’s assembly sits up to a maximum of only 12 days a year, spread across three sessions. – The Vibes, March 22, 2022
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