LANGKAWI: The Malay Chamber of Commerce (DPMM) has urged the Malay business community to seize the opportunities presented to them by the digital economic revolution.
DPMM president Rizal Faris Mohideen Abdul Kader urged the Bumiputera to shake off the shackles of past mindsets and carve a new chapter for the future.
He said the Malay business community has made reaped tremendous rewards from the six decades of independence. However, economic data now shows that the gulf in income and wealth is still vast among Malay traders.
“This decade has witnessed a radical revolution in terms of economy, digitalisation, global trade and technology where at the touch of a finger, one can conduct a business transaction between continents without the need for travel.
“It is also this touch that can shape the nation’s political landscape or create unnecessary conflict. This how radical the digital world is now,” he said at the launch of GO 4.0 Langkawi 2018, which was officiated by Prime Minister
Datuk Seri Najib Razak at Dataran Parkir, Langkawi Development Board (LADA).
Also present were Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah, Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, Education Minister Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid and Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Richard Riot.
Rizal Faris said Malay traders have to face the demands of an ever-evolving era in order to create brave and competitive entrepreneurs who can seize opportunities in the digital economy.
“The digital economy and Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0) recognises no borders and is happening here, whether we like it or not,” he said.
GO 4.0, held over two days from Friday, aims to raise awareness and train entrepreneurs, students, civil servants and the public on the challenges and opportunities presented by IR 4.0.--Reporting by ADIE SURI ZULKEFLI, MUHAAMAD HAFIS NAWAWI and AIZAT SHARIF.