Zahid shrugs off critics, cements strategic ties in New Zealand

New Straits Times

3 days ago

WELLINGTON: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has opted to remain focused on serving the people and the nation rather than paying heed to criticism levelled at him during his five-day working visit to New Zealand, which concludes today.
He acknowledged that any initiative he undertook was often met with disapproval from the opposition — an inevitable facet of political life.
"If it's something good, ask a friend. If it's not, ask an enemy. An enemy is someone who dislikes us. No matter what good we do, they will never see it as such.
"Criticism is part and parcel of politics — whether one is a minister, deputy prime minister, or even the prime minister travelling abroad. Such cynicism should not be entertained.
"What matters is the knowledge we gain in fields yet to be developed in our country, which we can explore and adapt for our benefit.
"Don't be arrogant, don't be boastful, don't be conceited. These attitudes are damaging — particularly when such cynicism comes from those who claim to be deeply religious," he said at a press conference this morning summarising his visit.
Also present were Malaysia's High Commissioner to New Zealand Mazita Marzuki and the Foreign Ministry's Secretary for the Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Oceania Division John K. Samuel.
Reflecting on the outcomes of the visit, Zahid said numerous strategic collaborations were established — including those aimed at empowering the rights and welfare of the Indigenous community, as well as initiatives in halal industry development, education, agriculture, trade, and disaster management.
He said that New Zealand had also expressed interest in joining the Asean Halal Council as an associate member, should Malaysia extend a formal invitation.
The country is also expected to participate as an exhibitor at the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (Mihas) in September. Zahid chairs the Malaysian Halal Industry Development Council.
New Zealand, he said, had also requested an increase in Malaysia's pineapple exports to fill a shortfall in its domestic market.
In response, he plans to raise the matter with Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and instruct relevant state executive councillors in Selangor, Pahang, Johor and Melaka to scale up cultivation of the tropical fruit.
During a meeting with the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand, Zahid said he received a request for the Quran to be translated into the Māori language.
"They asked whether Malaysia could donate copies of the Quran in Māori. I have contacted the Restu Foundation to undertake the translation. The funding will not come from the government, but from individuals or relevant parties.
"There are about 1,200 Māori Muslims. I believe this is a meaningful starting point to support them. With 96 mosques across the country, we will do what we can to assist," he said.