Mukhriz: Umno-PAS talks crucial for economy
(The Malaysian Insider) – PORT KLANG: Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mukhriz Tun Mahathir said discussions between Umno and PAS can calm down the political scenario and restore stability, the main selling point for Malaysia in attracting foreign direct investments (FDI).
"Many investors no longer see Malaysia as a stable country that can guarantee returns over the long term," he said when asked to comment on the willingness of PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang to discuss with Umno on issues important to the nation.
"Nowadays, some potential investors may have the perception that the political situation in Malaysia is like other countries which experienced instability. This comes from watching news reports on the country," he said after the ground breaking ceremony of SIMS Copper Sdn Bhd factory, a subsidiary of SIMS Group at Port Klang Free Zone here today.
Mukhriz said if the political calm once enjoyed by the nation could be restored by having Umno-PAS discussions, Malaysians would gain economically, what with the challenging economic conditions.
Asked whether there were potential investors making a u-turn to invest in Malaysia, he said: "We can't say for sure but are certain and have heard this before. Street demonstrations as seen on TV are a major turn off for potential investors."
He said Malaysia was never included in the list of countries with political instability but nowadays it seemed to happen more often and this had impacted the nation's image and gave rise to perception that it was no longer politically stable.
"Political stability is one of the top criteria for investors when making decisions as they want to be certain that their investments of millions of ringgit will be safe and intact."
Mukhriz said although surveys by certain parties found that some youngsters had become politically apathetic and turned off by politics be it Barisan Nasional or the Opposition, they were no longer in favour of both sides.
"It is important that we reduce politicking among political parties and stick to the business of running the goverment and nation the best we can under current economic circumstances," he added.
