Chinese businessman says limited opportunities drove use of Bumiputera firm

Lian Tian Chuan, director of Metrasys Sdn Bhd, told the court that market conditions created incentives for utilising Bumiputera contractors rather than operating as a non-Bumiputera entity. According to his testimony, the availability of projects was considerably more limited for non-Bumiputera firms, making partnership with a Bumiputera company a more viable business strategy. The remarks were made during ongoing proceedings in the trial of Muhyiddin Yassin, who faces charges related to alleged misconduct in office. Lian's evidence provides insight into commercial practices and decision-making within Malaysia's contracting sector, where Bumiputera participation requirements and preferences remain a significant factor in project allocation. The testimony underscores the structural role such policies play in shaping business arrangements among construction and service-related companies operating in the Malaysian market.