The Malaysian Association of Malay Car Importers and Dealers (Pekema) today denied claims that the approved permit (AP)policy only benefitted a handful of Malays.

Its President, Wan Zaid Wan Abdullah, said the AP policy gave birth to many bumiputera entrepenuers in the automotive sector like NAZA, Pantai Bharu, Rahman Brothers, Mofaz, Zaibar Motors, Zaibi Motors and Mutiara Motors.

nazir razak "Not only have they progressed in the automotive industry but have also sucessfully ventured into real estate, hotel and other industries," he said in a statement today.

On Sunday, CIMB Bank Chief Executive Officer Nazir Abdul Razak ( right ) said there was no reason to maintain the APs as it only benefited a few selected individuals when the money could have been distributed to poor bumiputeras.

"We hope bumiputeras who benefitted from this pro-bumiputera policy will help defend native rights and not erode it," he said.

- Bernama