KUALA LUMPUR, 12 JULY – The MADANI government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim may be receiving brickbats, as many may perceive the government as not implementing reforms.
However, M. Kulasegaran, the Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform), said this was not the case, as all provisions cannot be done without judicial independence and the government need to consult many parties before an act can be tabled.
“I can assure you it is a matter of time as the government needs time to carry out consultations with many parties. We are not only planning to bring back the Parliamentary Services Act (PSA) but to improve on it. We need time and to consult many parties even if it is a simple act,” he stated. Kulasegaran emphasised that the MADANI government is always open to the people.
He said the PSA, which was first enacted in 1963 and later abolished, will be resubmitted to Parliament for tabling in October.
Kulasegaran announced this at the Retail Conference organised by the Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) in conjunction with the Franchise Expo Malaysia (FEM) 2024.
“I can assure you it is a matter of time as the government needs time to carry out consultations with many parties. We are not only planning to bring back the PSA but to improve on the act. Even a small provision cannot be reintroduced without judicial independence,” he stated. Kulasegaran emphasised that the MADANI government is always open to the people.
Meanwhile, MRCA President Datuk Ken Phua urged retailers to brace for volatility and uncertainties in the next five months, despite a positive first quarter of 2024. Phua advised retailers to seek turnarounds to restore their financial health if they encounter challenges, noting that 60 percent of the global population are single, prompting a need for strategy recalibration.
Phua also encouraged MRCA members to leverage Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) grants and other government initiatives to drive business growth. “The retail sector plays a key role in nation building,” he added.
Retailers are now focusing on creating seamless omnichannel experiences, investing in digital transformation, and enhancing their online presence to meet evolving demands. Industry players gathered at the MRCA Retail Conference to discuss the new retail landscape and pivot strategies for thriving in this environment.
The conference featured speakers such as Song Hoi See, founder and CEO of Plaza Premium Group, and Ajith Kumar, Country Lead of Growth Partnerships at TikTok Malaysia. In his presentation, Song shared how Plaza Premium Group managed the pandemic crisis through cost optimization and innovation, expanding their business to provide 360-degree airport services. “Entrepreneurs must always look at challenges positively because, in the face of every adversity, there is a new opportunity,” he said.
Song emphasized the importance of vision, focusing on people, technology, and sustainability. He advised attendees to maintain a positive mindset, prepare for change, and expand beyond comfort zones.
Datuk Ken Phua highlighted the government’s steadfast support of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which has been instrumental in fostering growth and innovation within the sector. He commended retailers for their resilience and adaptability in challenging times.
He concluded with a call for agility and adaptation: “The future of retail is being shaped by those who are willing to learn, adapt, and innovate. By leveraging the expertise of our distinguished guests, you position yourself at the forefront of this exciting journey.”