GEORGE TOWN: The Penang state government has set up a Class F contractors consultative council with participation from the various agencies and departments to help the 1,316 Class F bumiputra contractors in the state.

The council, headed by state executive councillor Abdul Malik Abdul Kassim, consists of six representatives from the Penang Bumiputra Class F association and the heads of state-owned agencies and heads of department.

The association president Tahir Jalaluddin Hussain hailed the creation of the council which he hoped would help resolve issues faced by bumiputra Class F contractors in the state.

"This is the first time that we will liaise directly with the heads of departments and also relevant agencies as previously, there was no mechanism to do so," Tahir said.

"We usually settle arising issues and problems via third-party involvement.

"We are also grateful to the state government as since early this year, projects from the state government have been forthcoming and the methodology of distribution, quotations and tender processes have been very transparent and fair.

"Usually, Class F contractors would have to 'rest' for the first four months of the year, while waiting for the grant from the federal government for project.

"However, we were pleasantly surprised when projects from the state government started coming in for our contractors since as early as January," Tahir said.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng meanwhile said the state government will ensure that projects would continuously be offered to Class F contractors throughout the year.

"This council will help cut down on the redtape and other issues faced by the contractors as there is direct interaction between the contractors and respective heads of departments and agencies.

"The council would also come up with clearer policies to help the Class F contractors.

"As long as you are honest, able to provide good service and work, you do not need any political cables to obtain contracts from the state government," Lim added.

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