Government considering scrapping AP scheme

JOHOR BARU: The Government is considering the possibility of scrapping the controversial Approved Permit (AP) scheme for imported vehicles to ensure a system that is acceptable for all.

Deputy International Trade and Industries Minister Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir said scrapping the scheme was not the only option as there were many other ways to look at the matter.

“However, the basis of any solution is that, any levy or tax should benefit the Government.

“In the end, cost saving, if there is any, should go to the people,” he said adding that, the ministry expected to announce a decision soon.

He was commenting on the request of the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Car Dealers and Credit Companies Association, which asked the Government to open the AP scheme to everyone or give a 30% quota to the Bumiputra and have the rest open for auction.

He was speaking to pressmen after launching the Bumiputra Entrepreneurs Symposium held in conjunction with the Unit Trust Week here on Sunday.

Mukhriz explained that it was high on the ministry’s agenda to discuss and finally decide on a new mechanism on the AP issue, as it had long been a contentious one.

“We want to look at it in a very comprehensive manner and come up with a solution that is amiable to all,” he said adding that, the ministry should be given a little bit more time before the minister makes a decision with the approval of the Cabinet.

Meanwhile, commenting on the new liberalisation policy, Mukhriz said that he was confident that the new policy would attract more Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into the country.

“We have not estimated how much FDI would flow into the country with introduction of this new policy.

“It is certainly an added attraction for foreign companies to invest in the country,” he said.