The session, which ended with extensive feedback, proposals, and recommendations from representatives of chambers and associations nationwide, drew participation from nearly 30 trade organisations across various industries, with approximately 150 participants.
Participants highlighted that rising fuel costs are significantly increasing logistics and transportation expenses, leading to higher overall production and distribution costs. Many sectors, including manufacturing, construction, agriculture, and wholesale and retail, are experiencing mounting pressure due to their heavy reliance on fuel and energy inputs.
Concerns were also raised about supply chain disruptions, rising freight costs, and shrinking margins, as businesses struggle to pass higher costs on to consumers. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) were identified as particularly vulnerable, facing tighter cash flows and limited capacity to absorb these increases. The overall sentiment reflected growing caution within the business community amid heightened economic uncertainty.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced a series of immediate measures to help businesses cope with rising operating costs stemming from the global energy crisis and Middle East tensions. The measures include an RM5 billion financing guarantee under Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan (SJPP), a 12-month extension for e-invoicing transition, and interim tax relief on re-imported Malaysian goods affected by global disruptions.
Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) welcomed these measures and said it was encouraged that the Government had adopted proposals previously submitted by the Chamber, reflecting its responsiveness to the concerns of the business community.
The interaction session also featured a panel discussion with invited speakers, including Ng Zhu Hann, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tradeview Capital and Deputy Chairman of the Commerce Committee of ACCCIM; Lee Heng Guie, Executive Director of the Socio-Economic Research Centre (SERC), who moderated the session; and Beh Wee Khee, Managing Director and Country Head of Commercial Banking, UOB Malaysia.
ACCCIM President Datuk Ng Yih Pyng said the Chamber would compile and formulate the feedback gathered into a comprehensive proposal to be submitted to the relevant Ministries for consideration. He added that since the onset of the oil shock, ACCCIM has consistently engaged with its members and the wider business community to provide feedback and advocate for policies that help reduce operating and compliance costs for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
ACCCIM emphasised that the current oil price shock represents a significant external challenge requiring coordinated and practical policy responses. The Chamber said it looks forward to continued engagement with the Government to ensure that policies remain effective, targeted and supportive of business sustainability. It also stressed that efforts must be focused on strengthening the resilience of businesses to withstand economic shocks, while sustaining growth and competitiveness across the broader economy.
