KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that the government is in search of a method to improve the governance of Approved Permits (AP) and Import Permits (IP) in order to enhance the country’s competitiveness. The Prime Minister emphasized that this is crucial as it will not only benefit consumers but also local producers, especially in ensuring food supply security for the country. This was discussed at the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) meeting, its first this year.
He further mentioned that other matters were addressed during the meeting, including asking relevant regulatory agencies to submit improvement methods to the Cabinet to boost efficiency and transparency in the import risk analysis process. It was also suggested that the Auditor-General conduct audits for specific sectors to ensure the implementation of AP and IP achieves the set targets and objectives.
Additionally, the Malaysia Productivity Corporation has been directed to conduct studies and assessments on governance and import of halal products while the Malaysia Competition Commission has been asked to study the issue of cartels in the import of food-based products. The meeting also reviewed the progress of the implementation of decisions taken by MTEN last year.
Furthermore, on the Central Database Hub (PADU) system, Anwar said the meeting discussed its progress and offered views on the steps to be taken by the relevant agencies, especially regarding data security and ways to increase the number of registrations. To enhance the effectiveness of discussions and decisions, he agreed to increase the permanent members of MTEN by including Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo and Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. – Bernama
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