KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 23): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia has enormous potential to become a vibrant economy as it has the necessary resources, skilled workforce and strong economic fundamentals.
The United Government has formulated policies like Madani Economy, National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and New Industrial Masterplan 2030 (NIMP 2030).
NETR, which includes catalytic projects worth 25 billion ringgit, is a unique project that will make Malaysia a hub for renewable energy and green technology, he said in his speech at a dinner with Malaysian expatriates and students in New York.
At the same time, NIMP 2030 is not a revision of the old plan but a departure from it as it focuses on specific tasks and new thrusts, he said.
“Last week, we approved the Mid-Term Review (MTR) for the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), which is not a normal review of the old plan.
„The 12MP MTR represents a change in focus, policies and direction – the new government’s policy of good governance and democratic accountability, as well as its mission to make Malaysia a vibrant and economically, socially and educationally successful country,” said the Prime Minister.
Malaysians play an important role in promoting trade and investment
Anwar, who is also finance minister, said Malaysia’s success as a trading nation depends on its ability to encourage investment and ensure the continuity of trade activities.
„This is where you have to play your part. We want every Malaysian in America to consider themselves ambassadors for Malaysia, representing the new Malaysian spirit and being committed to our ideals.
“You should encourage your colleagues, Malaysians and Americans, to understand and know Malaysia. This will be your task, and I am here tonight to appeal to you as ambassadors of goodwill to focus on promoting trade and investments,” he told about 1,000 Malaysian expatriates and students who attended the dinner.
Even though some of those attending the dinner had lived in the US for decades, the Prime Minister expressed hope that they would still love to see Malaysia win.
“Our dream, my dream and your dream is to ensure that Malaysia rises again. I, from the bottom of my heart, say this. I have full faith and trust in Malaysians,” he said.
Anwar attended the dinner with his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
Also present were Malaysian Ambassador to the US Datuk Seri Mohd Nasri Abdul Aziz, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jambri Abd Qadir, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saibudin Nasuddin Ismail and Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Deng Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa and Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ahmad Faisal Muhammad, were also present, along with several members of parliament and government officials.
Earlier, Anwar delivered Malaysia’s National Statement at the 78th United Nations General Assembly.
About 25,000 Malaysians live in the United States.