Gerakan vice-president Dr S Vijayaratnam has welcomed the decision by Malayan Banking Bhd (Maybank) to scrap a controversial policy which puts a racial quota requirement for its panel solicitors.

"It is not a question of bumiputera and non-bumiputera. It is who is capable," said Vijayaratnam in a statement today.

He was responding to the decision by Maybank to adhere to a cabinet directive to scrap the policy which has irked several professional and business bodies.

Three main Chinese-dominated political parties - MCA, Gerakan and DAP - have also voiced their criticism of the move which was made known by a Maybank circular dated March 29.

Vijayaratnam expressed confidence that there are many bumiputera legal firms which do not require the quotas previously stipulated by Maybank.

"I dare say that there are now many bumiputera law firms that outshine others purely through commitment and sheer hard work," he added.

He said liberalisation in all professions would enhance the nation's competitiveness in view of a more globalised business environment.

What about 'hidden policies'

Maybank is controlled by government-owned fund-manager Permodalan Nasional Bhd. It is also the largest banking group in the country.

Meanwhile, Penang PKR deputy information chief Jason Ong said today that there were still many 'unfair practices and hidden policies' of the government to prevent non-bumiputera from being involved in certain businesses under the continuation of the New Economic Policy.

He cites the issuance of APs (Approved Permits) for importation of cars, taxi and bus service licensing, scrap metal industry and the selection of bumiputera contractors for government-funded projects as examples.

"As a result, such restrictions in turn further promote corruption and cronyism which hamper growth and competitiveness among Malaysian businesses especially non-bumiputra companies," said Ong in a statement today.

He said it was now time that Malaysians must work towards abolishing the New Economic Policy and put in place a more equitable wealth distribution policy as propagated by PKR advisor and former DPM Anwar Ibrahim.