Slowing economy hanging over traders during CNY preparations, says Najib

Updated 5 years ago · Published on 2 Feb 2019 6:39PM · 9 Comments

Former prime minister Najib Razak says the poorer reception to preparations for the Chinese New Year celebrations this year is an indication of a poor economy. – The Malaysian Insight file pic, February 2, 2019.

FORMER prime minister Najib Razak says traders are feeling the pinch from a slowing economy, citing gloomy feedback during his recent visits across the nation. 

“During preparations for the festivities, I had the opportunity to visit traders from all backgrounds, whether at the market, the coffee shop or the grocery store, and I received feedback from them,” he said in a Facebook live video on his page this afternoon.

Najib said those who trade in food, clothes and necessities were lamenting the fact that sales had been affected by a slow economy. 

“Some saw their sales reduced by 50% and are considering just closing down their businesses as they are not able to handle the costs,” he said. 

Najib said job security was a continual worry for Malaysians, and many graduates were also scared of being unable to find employment upon completion of their studies.

“Students who are about to graduate now face a great challenge in terms of job opportunities. 

“Families have told me that they truly believed the cost of living would drop and they would receive assistance from the government. 

“Unfortunately, living costs have risen due to the introduction of the SST (sales and services tax) as well as the policy announcements, such as the hike in water and electricity tariffs. 

“To make matters worse, assistance for the B40 (bottom 40% household earners) have been reduced.

“It is strange to see the situation today, where the people are asked to help the government and to make sacrifices for the comfort of those in Putrajaya.” 

Najib added he was “saddened” to see Barisan Nasional’s accomplishments destroyed.

“Our economy has worsened and is no longer generating the growth that we desire.” 

He said the poorer reception to preparations for the Chinese New Year celebrations this year was an indication of a poor economy.

“Nevertheless, the most important things remain family and health. As with the Chinese community, I wish Malaysians in the coming year happiness and prosperity.” – February 2, 2019.

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Comments

  • The economy doesnt tank overnight. You have been a major contributor to the disappearance of the country's wealth and well being. Dont try to pretend that you are innocent.

    Posted 5 years ago by J R · Reply

  • Thick-skinned!

    Posted 5 years ago by Malaysia Baru 09052018 · Reply

  • Seriously, my heart sinks every time I see yet another article on what Najib said.

    Posted 5 years ago by R W · Reply

  • Don't be thick skinned. You are a disgrace to your father. Return all the stolen billions and help to bring back Jho Low, you bloody thief

    Posted 5 years ago by SY L · Reply

  • You gather the Umno and MCA members to listen to your bullshit! LOL

    Posted 5 years ago by SY L · Reply

  • Dont pretend to feel sorry for the people. The people voted you out because you didnt look after them when you were PM otherwise why would they kick you out.

    Posted 5 years ago by Elyse Gim · Reply

  • Those who still accept Najib and UMNO must be either stupid or corrupt.

    Posted 5 years ago by T E · Reply

  • The state of the current is started by your corrupted practice when you were the government. It will take a while for the present government to make it right. So dont go blaming others except yourself.

    Posted 5 years ago by Adrian Tan · Reply