KUALA LUMPUR: There is a need for increased efforts to promote Malaysian-made goods in order to change the perception that local products lack luxury and quality, according to Putra Business School economic analyst Assoc Prof Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff.
Dr. Latiff emphasized the need for government ministries, agencies, industry, chambers of commerce, and entrepreneurs to work together on effective campaigns to promote Malaysian goods both domestically and internationally. He stressed that these campaigns should showcase the unique aspects of Malaysian products and highlight their high quality and added value, rather than simply focusing on their affordability.
He also noted that this initiative would not only bolster the domestic economy but would also help local businesses enter the global market, leading to increased employment opportunities and new economic growth.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, during the launch of the Malaysian Goods Carnival in Putrajaya, expressed the need for enhanced efforts to promote Malaysian goods to drive economic growth.
Shahrul Azam, owner of Qaseh Batik, stated that the Prime Minister’s call aligns with the company’s plans to expand into new markets, following its successful entry into the Brunei market.
Qaseh Butik, which has been operating since 2016 in Kota Baru, Kelantan, has produced 10 clothing products, including kaftans, baju kurung, shirts, and jubah, with prices ranging from RM30 to RM300.
Additionally, sambal entrepreneur Surya Watie Salleh emphasized that promoting local products, especially those of micro, small, and medium enterprises (PMKS), requires the cooperation of all parties.
Watie added that due to limited funds for promotion, they often have to rely on word-of-mouth advertising and social media platforms to promote the uniqueness of their products, while maintaining product quality.
He shared that his company produces about 300 to 400 jars of Sambal Ikan Talang Tok Baqq per day for the local and Singaporean markets. – Bernama
