PONTIAN: The upcoming revised Budget 2023 should prioritise the recovery of small and medium enterprises (SME), says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

The MCA president said that SMEs provided more than 65% of the country's employment, and there were still businesses that have not fully recovered from the Covid-19 pandemic.

"We hope the government will look into providing help to the SMEs, which is in line with efforts to revive our economy.

"Businesses are facing challenges in terms of new policies and the new Employment Act, besides the lack of manpower," he said when met by reporters after attending a Chinese New Year open house organised by Tanjung Piai MP Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng at Dewan Tunku Ibrahim Ismail, Pekan Nanas here on Saturday (Feb 4).

Dr Wee, who is also Ayer Hitam MP, added that aid must be given as soon as possible to sustain the SMEs' survival.

"We have prepared a memorandum to be given to the government next week, and includes some suggestions from the SMEs themselves on how to make the sector more vibrant.

Dr Wee added that the memorandum would also touch on improving the income and welfare of the rakyat.

"There are a lot of things that we hope will be discussed further in the coming parliamentary meeting on Feb 13.

"I also hope that the government would look into addressing the egg shortage in the country, as we are nearing the fasting month and Hari Raya Aidilfitri," he said.

On Jan 24, Dr Wee said that a memorandum on the revised Budget 2023 will be submitted to the Prime Minister, covering issues such as the economy, SMEs and education.

He said the party held a dialogue with several NGOs last September to hear their views and aspirations and on matters needing the attention of the government.

The revised Budget 2023 is scheduled to be tabled in Parliament on Feb 24.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2023/02/04/revised-budget-2023-should-prioritise-smes039-recovery-says-dr-wee