RM15b to help businessmen

WEALTH CREATION

BUTTERWORTH: The government has set aside RM15 billion for the Private Finance Initiative programmes under the 10th Malaysia Plan to help businessmen.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop said the government would provide financial aid and other forms of assistance to any major business deemed viable.

"This is good for the government, too, as such projects will spur the economy and provide job opportunities for locals," he said after opening a career opportunity and entrepreneur exposition here yesterday.

Nor Mohamed, who is also Tasek Gelugor member of parliament, said the government would devise a mechanism to determine the viability of a particular project.

"We know many businessmen have the capability, expertise, skills and knowledge to take up major projects but are held bacl by obstacles.

"They do not come out openly and admit that they have a problem for reasons best known to them, but such obstacles can be resolved by the government.

"As such, we will help by identifying projects and businessmen who need such assistance," he said.

Nor Mohamed said the government would remain focused on creating a new economic model and encouraged feedback from entrepreneurs.

During the event, he also launched his website, www.normohamed.my, to gather feedback, complaints and suggestions from his constituents to help improve their living standard.
By S. Arulldas