Latest news with #Jefridin
The Star
19-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's legacy impacts Johor significantly, says Kukup rep
ISKANDAR PUTERI: The administration of Malaysia's fifth Prime Minister, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, has left a profound and lasting impact on Johor, says an assemblyman. Datuk Jefridin Atan (BN-Kukup) said numerous mega projects were implemented in the state during Abdullah's tenure, particularly under the Ninth Malaysia Plan from 2006 to 2010. Among these projects was the launch of the Iskandar Development Region, now known as Iskandar Malaysia, in Iskandar Puteri, formerly known as Nusajaya. 'This mega project turned Johor into one of the fastest-growing economic hubs in Southeast Asia, with major investments across various sectors including real estate, services, logistics, and education. 'Areas such as Johor Baru, Iskandar Puteri, Pasir Gudang, Tanjung Pelepas, and Pontian underwent remarkable transformation as a result of this project,' he said. Jefridin made these remarks during a debate on the royal address by Johor Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim at the state assembly meeting at Bangunan Sultan Ismail in Kota Iskandar on Monday (May 19). He added that the establishment of the East Coast Economic Region (ECER), launched in 2007, also included several districts in Johor such as Mersing and Segamat. The initiative aimed to stimulate economic development in less-developed areas through investment in infrastructure, education, and industry. He also highlighted the development of EduCity, which now hosts several internationally renowned universities and institutions of higher learning. 'The presence of EduCity has positioned Johor as a global education destination, offering opportunities for both local and international students in various professional fields,' he added. Jefridin said the strengthening of agriculture and agro-industrial sectors under the new agricultural policy introduced during Abdullah's time also benefited farmers and smallholders in Kluang, Mersing, Kota Tinggi, and Segamat. 'The focus was on modern agriculture that enhanced the nation's food security and improved rural incomes,' he said, adding that Abdullah also emphasised human capital during his administration. Jefridin noted that Abdullah placed strong importance on human capital development through the Education Development Master Plan (PIPP), launched in 2006. 'Key focuses included teacher training, the integration of ICT in education, and improving students' academic performance nationwide. 'Under his administration, the country's development approach was revitalised through the principle of 'growth with distribution', emphasising comprehensive and balanced development between economic and social aspects, urban and rural areas, as well as among regions and ethnic groups,' he added. Abdullah, fondly known as Pak Lah, passed away at the National Heart Institute on April 14, at the age of 85. He served as Prime Minister from 31 October 2003 to 3 April 2009, leaving a lasting legacy in national development through initiatives such as the Northern Corridor Economic Region, J-QAF programme, and the halal industry.
Barnama
13-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Tun Abdullah's Vision Centred On Human Capital, Not Just Infrastructure
BANGI, May 13 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's fifth Prime Minister, Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, laid an important foundation by asserting that national development should not be measured solely by skyscrapers or highways, but by the growth of the people's minds and values. Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Legacy Organisation chairman, Datuk Jefridin Atan, said the late leader's contributions to human capital development are a legacy that must be recognised and continued. 'Tun Abdullah often stressed that the nation needs citizens who are not only literate, but also thoughtful, technologically aware, and compassionate. It's not just about obtaining academic qualifications, but about how knowledge is applied for the well-being of society and the advancement of the nation. 'Today, we see the positive impact of his focus on human capital. A culture of learning and lifelong education has become widespread, while his emphasis on integrity has raised awareness of the importance of good governance in both the public and private sectors,' he said. Jefridin was delivering the keynote address at the Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi: Menelusuri Denai Kepimpinan Berjiwa Terbilang seminar organised by the Institute of Islam Hadhari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), here today. Jefridin said that to truly understand Tun Abdullah's emphasis on human capital development, one must consider the national context in the early 2000s, when he assumed the role of Prime Minister in October 2003. At the time, Malaysia was recovering from the 1997–1998 Asian financial crisis and facing strong global economic competition, particularly from China and India. 'The global economy was shifting towards a knowledge-based model. Tun Abdullah recognised that Malaysia could no longer rely solely on low labour costs or natural resources alone. 'Instead, the country's competitiveness had to be built on knowledge, creativity, and innovation - achievable only through quality human capital development,' said Jefridin, who also served as Tun Abdullah's special officer.
