PM: No Malaysian should be left behind

New Straits Times

2 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government's infrastructure development efforts would include structural economic reforms aimed at increasing the people's income.
This policy, he said, would involve improving schools, upgrading hospitals, and enhancing transport networks.
He added that infrastructure development would not be limited to the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), but would also include continuous improvements to public facilities and services.
"The people are not only given promises of hope, but are also supported in a tangible and ongoing manner.
"The strategy to raise incomes includes structural reforms, attracting high-quality investments, empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and strengthening the technology and innovation ecosystem.
"Every citizen should have the opportunity to progress, regardless of ethnic or cultural background," he said in his speech in conjunction with the official birthday celebration of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.
Anwar said all efforts to strengthen national integration would continue to be intensified to ensure no one is left behind in the journey towards a better future.
This, he said, was because stability and national unity are fundamental prerequisites for progress.
"In a rapidly changing and challenging world, unity is not a choice — it is a necessity," he said.
Touching on geopolitical tensions and trade tariffs imposed by the United States, Anwar said Malaysia remains firmly grounded and has been among the earliest and most agile nations to safeguard the interests of its industries, businesses, and people.
As Finance Minister, he said comprehensive and holistic strategic measures have been taken to sustain Malaysia's economic stability and competitiveness.
"The strength of a nation lies not only in its growth figures but in the resilience of its people.
"Growth in agro-food yields, local products, and the resilience of domestic industries continue to serve as key pillars of the economy.
"The unwavering support of the people reflects a strong national spirit and growing awareness of the importance of self-reliance amid global uncertainty," he said.
He said Malaysia's Asean Chairmanship has further strengthened the country's role as a catalyst and leader in regional diplomacy. A comprehensive and inclusive approach, he added, has opened up opportunities for cooperation in trade, green technology, food security, and regional peace.
"This Asean Summit has been one of the most significant in Asean's history, marking the first time Malaysia, as Chair, successfully brought together three major regions — the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), China and Asean.
"This historic moment reflects our joint efforts to ensure the continuity of civilisations, stimulate national and regional economies, and deepen cooperation across areas of mutual interest.
"The recently concluded summit, along with the hosting of Lima '25 (Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition) in Langkawi, stands as a testament that teamwork is key to realising our national aspirations," he said.
Anwar also said that in line with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the country is ready to welcome the world with the warmth and spirit of togetherness of its people.
"God willing, Visit Malaysia Year 2026 will serve as a new catalyst for economic growth and job creation.
"It is not merely a tourism agenda, but a manifestation of our love for the homeland, its culture and heritage.