Only 101 companies, or 10.7 percent, of the 941 companies listed on Bursa Malaysia up to Dec 31, 2011 were bumiputera-owned, said Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Ahmad Maslan.

He said of the 101, only 75 companies recorded profits.

Ahmad said the figure needed to be increased because listing on Bursa Malaysia would not only benefit a company but would also put the bumiputeras on par with other races in the country.

"We hope that bumiputeras would get to know more about capital market, bourse and all things related to securities because it would be beneficial to them," he said.

He said this to reporters after the Persatuan Remisier Bumiputera Malaysia's annual general meeting and the launch of "Icon Bumiputera PLC 2011" book today.

Ahmad said bumiputera companies received various opportunities and help from the government, including the Skim Jejak Jaya Bumiputera, to get listed on Bursa Malaysia.    

He said bumiputera entrepreneurs, however, should not only depend on the government assistance but on their own capabilities.    

"To list on Bursa Malaysia, an entrepreneur must also put in his own efforts, for one day he will be the chief executive of the listed firm," he said.

FGV listing will be biggest this year

On the listing of Felda Global Venture Holdings on Bursa Malaysia, Ahmad said, it would benefit the settlers and not otherwise.

"If the initial public offering is successful, it will be the biggest this year.

"Thus we need the support of all. Those who are against the move do not take into consideration the interests of the bumiputeras," he said.

- Bernama