Kuala Lumpur - Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has reiterated his commitment to creating a just and dynamic Malaysia that is owned by all citizens.
"As Prime Minister, I am committed towards the creation of a Malaysian community that is dynamic, peaceful and harmonious, confident and competitive, as well as one that holds fast to the tradition of a culture of togetherness.
"I will work even harder so that we can stride forward confidently and proudly in all matters.
"Therefore, I am confident that our continuous unity and spirit of togetherness will bring Malaysia higher level of excellence," said Abdullah in his Chinese New Year message here Wednesday.
He reiterated that Malaysia did not belong to any one individual or community but "belonged to all of us together as the citizens of Malaysia."
However, Abdullah warned that despite its many achievements, the country still had challenges especially in the face of an increasingly globalised and competitive world.
"To continue to march forward, we need to fulfil all the preconditions so that we have the ability to compete and be resilient.
"The Government on its part will provide the necessary basic needs to face these challenges not only for the short term but also for the long term," he said, citing the development corridors as well as the projects under the 9th Malaysia Plan that would bring the nation towards a new direction of development.
Abdullah also reminded the people that they should be grateful that they could still celebrate each other`s festivals in a merry and harmonious way.
"We should, therefore, realise that the stability that exists in our country does not come easily without much effort and sacrifice.
"All this comes from the years of unity and harmony that we have been cultivating for so long.
"I urge the people to continue to cultivate and adopt the values of consultation, tolerance, unity and mutual appreciation as these are the keys to the country`s continuous peace and harmony," he said.
Source: thestar.com.my (8 Februari 2008)
