Removing Red-tape A Paradigm Shift In Building Sector - Ong
14/04/2007 Bernama

PETALING JAYA, April 14 (Bernama) -- Measures to remove bureaucratic red-tape at the local authorities level, have been described as a paradigm shift that will change the country's construction sector for the better.

Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting said the measures were very crucial in enhancing the country's competitiveness and turning Malaysia as an attractive investment destination.

"Let's compare with neighbouring countries, not with western countries. Our neighbours in Southeast Asia have shown their competitiveness."

He said the neighbouring countries had cut bureaucracy and offered incentives to foreign investors, and Malaysia would lag behind if no effective measures were taken.

He told reporters this after attending a conference on enhancing the government's delivery system here. The two-day conference ended today with a one-and-a-half hour meeting between Ong and players in the country's building industry.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced four measures aimed at reducing bureaucracy at the local authorities level.

They were the setting up of one-stop centre, replacing the Certificate of Fitness for Occupancy) with the Certificate of Compliance and Completion, drafting of the Building and Common Property Act and promoting the build-then-sell concept.

Ong said that most importantly, players in the property industry would enjoy more benefits and their business would be simplified.

"The impact on the economy will be high and this will convince investors," he said.

At the same time, the people would also to get their share, namely an assurance that low and medium cost houses would continue to be built, he said.

-- BERNAMA