THE National Tech Association of Malaysia (Pikom) has welcomed the government’s decision to extend the special RM2,500 tax relief for the purchase of mobile phones, computers and tablets as these tech-related items are today regarded as necessities for every household.

Pikom also applauded the government for announcing perhaps one of the most difficult budgets and the need to strike a balance between the people, business and the economy.

In a statement today, its chairman Danny Lee said the Covid-19 pandemic and even during the national recovery period had resulted in the increased need for tech devices for businesses and students.

Meanwhile, Pikom said that the technology industry will continue to source skilled talents, therefore, the need to reskill and upskill Malaysians is imperative.

The tax deductions for upskilling courses would boost this effort and complement the JaminKerja initiatives in creating job opportunities.

“Currently, Pikom is collaborating with Human Resource Development Corporation and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation on the training programmes.

“Training programmes such as Data Analytics, Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence have been in demand for both training and job openings,” it added.

Pikom also lauded the focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) with an allocation of RM6 billion, and is appreciative of the emphasis on women in the budget, including providing incentives for mothers at work and mandating public-listed companies to include women in leadership positions.

“Through our Women in Tech (WIT) Chapter initiative, we hope that these efforts would continue to provide employment opportunities for the differently abled, marginalised and unemployed,” it said. – Bernama, November 1, 2021.