The Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Trucking Association (SEKLTA) hosted its 9th anniversary celebration recently at Wisma Hua Zhong, Seri Kembangan, Selangor.
SEKLTA Sheds Light on Challenges Faced by Trucking Industry
Spanning an entire day, the event featured a truck and supply exhibition, Malaysia Trucking Federation (MTF) committee meeting, seminar on the Caltex Subsidised Diesel Control System (SKDS) and concluded with a grand dinner.
Among the 25 exhibitors were MAN Malaysia, YonMing Auto & Industrial Parts Sdn Bhd, Hong Seng Group (Sinotruk Hohan), Tan Chong Industrial Equipment Sdn Bhd (UD Trucks), De Auto Industries Sdn Bhd (Foton and CAMC in separate booths), NBG Industrial Sdn Bhd (FAW), CIMC Vehicles Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Highclass Technics Sdn Bhd, Gotrays Global Sdn Bhd and First Unitex Tyre Retreading Sdn Bhd.
The dinner, officiated by Ng Sze Han, Member of the Selangor State Legislative Assembly, attracted a significant turnout of 900 participants, including representatives from truck manufacturers and suppliers, members, guests and the media.
Under the guidance of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, he said the Malaysian unity government introduced the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) that was aimed at bolstering the country’s economy through strategic industrial policies for the manufacturing and manufacturing-related services sector. Collaboratively, the Selangor state government was committed to partnering with the federal government to attract foreign investors. The Selangor state government placed a significant emphasis on the logistics sector, leveraging Malaysia’s geographical advantages, as the key infrastructure such as ports, airports, railways and roads as well as the transportation of goods were predominantly reliant on trucks.
He continued that the Trucking Association played a crucial role not only in facilitating seamless logistics but also in fostering connections between urban and rural areas. This enabled the transportation of goods from rural to urban areas and vice versa, ultimately enhancing economic development for city and rural regions. Top of Form
In his welcoming speech, Dato K.K. Wong, President, SEKLA, affirmed that SEKLA had steadfastly supported its members and the industry over the past nine years, and pledged to persist in these efforts. He also encouraged industry players from other races to consider joining the association.
Meanwhile, Dato’ Ng Koong Sinn, President, MTF, expressed his satisfaction at witnessing an increasing number of young leaders emerging in the logistics industry, with many second and third generation taking the helm of their respective family business.
“As SEKLA celebrates its ninth anniversary, it is important not only to honour its previous achievements but also address the trends and challenges shaping the future of our industry. The restructuring of diesel subsidies and Sales and Service Tax (SST) are expected to elevate our operating costs.”
Highlighting the critical role of diesel in the trucking industry, Ng emphasised that any changes in pricing and availability would significantly impact operational costs and profitability. The uncertainty surrounding diesel subsidies, he stressed, hindered the ability of logistics players to plan and invest confidently. Therefore, he urged the government to provide clear solutions and implement changes gradually to minimise the disruption in the transportation industry.
He stressed that the six per cent SST had already escalated their financial strain. “The imposition of this duty could potentially hike our customers’ operational expenses, thereby impacting our service competitiveness. We believe the government should reconsider restructuring this tax and consider exempting it for the transportation industry.”
Additionally, he highlighted various challenges encountered by the industry, including escalating maintenance costs, a shortage of skilled drivers and the necessity to adapt to evolving customer expectations. However, Ng remains optimistic, stating that if all members could come together in unity, they could transform these challenges into opportunities and ensured that the association’s voice was effectively heard.
“We must also uphold our commitment to technology and embrace new innovations such as exploring alternative fuel for sustainability,” he added.
Additional highlights of the evening comprised a cake-cutting and toasting ceremony, an auction featuring liquor and paintings for charity, a lucky draw session and captivating singing performances.
