thestar: ‘Malaysia’s economy may grow 6% in 2010’

By SYLVIA LOOI

IPOH: Buoyed by the 4.5% growth in the fourth quarter of last year, the Government sees a 6% growth for this year.

Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah said while the Government had targeted a 5% growth for 2010, the 4.5% growth from the fourth quarter of last year had given the country's economy great encouragement and confidence.

"We have studied the projections made by various bodies particularly those from the banking sector and some believe we can even achieve 7% growth," he said here Saturday.

"But we will target 6%," he added.

Speaking to reporters after attending a Chinese New Year open house organised by the Perak Hokkien Association, Husni said his ministry was looking into how to achieve the 6% growth and would present it to the Economic Council once the study had been completed.

Husni also said that the global economic crisis had taught Malaysia not to be too heavily dependent on the US and European countries.

"What we learn from the crisis is to diversify our markets," he added, noting that the crisis had led Malaysia to restructure in terms of international trade and investment.

Citing China as an example, Husni said there had been a trade surplus with the country for the past three years.

"We are also watching India, Indonesia and the Middle East closely as our trade with these countries is gaining strength," he added.

(Source from The Star, 27/02/2010)