Black Economy

Headlines in The Star today that Malaysia's black economy may be worth about RM10 billion (only?). I don't condone illegal activities any more than the next person in the street condones crime, but you have to ask yourself whether the government's less-than-transparent policies may have contributed to the growth in the underground economy in recent times. Let's face it, it is tough to get licenses from the government for the most profitable enterprises/businesses, most of which are jealously guarded and dished out to people with the right connections in politically sensitive places. Contracts are awarded not to people who can do the job but to people who are connected. land is sold not on open tender to the highest bidder but by "direct negotiations" like how most contracts are won. Race is besides the point. It is the connected who gain the lion's shares of licenses and contracts, not those who can get the job done best, cost-effectively and best quality-wise. If i cannot get a license and a government contract no matter how good i am, guess where i will turn my energies and talents to? I'd say RM10 billion is an understatement. The figure is likely to be several times more than that. Every next person i have ever met tries their level best to circumvent existing regulations and why not? They are oppressive regulations, they are unfair, they are a hindrance to good business. And yet they wonder WHY people resort to illegal businesses.