Malaysia Notes

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 3 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's strategic position and its diverse culture provide an opportunity for the country to progress into a centre for modern civilisation.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said this aspect could be realised if the benefits derived from the globalisation process were to be wisely exploited.

He said it was not impossible for Malaysia to be the centre for all civilisations in the world because of the diversity and benefits derived from the various culture in the country.

"Besides the cultural benefits, we also can translate them into economic benefits and use our diversity in creating business chains.

"We have the extra edge compared with other countries because our policy is apt, which is diversity in language. We do not pressure or close down Chinese-medium schools, in fact, we are the only country in South East Asia which allows the setting up of Chinese schools," he said in his speech at a function held to commemorate the coming Chinese New Year celebration at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre here tonight.

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He said all these measures demonstrated the commitment of the Barisan Nasional (BN) government towards the development of Chinese education in the country.

"The founding fathers of this country had chosen the right path compared to the other nations in Southeast Asia, which had mostly opted for the assimilation concept.

"I say that our founding fathers had wisdom and vision because out of this integrity policy, Malaysia has emerged as a unique country.

"If you love Malaysia, there is hope for the country to become even stronger. We can do it if we choose to cooperate as one family," he said.

Elaborating further, Najib said the concept of one Malaysia was based on the peace and stability that would take the country to even greater heights.

Also present at the function were Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, MCA president and Transport Minister Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat, Information Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek, MCA Youth chief and Deputy Education Minister Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong, and Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club (BNBBC) chairman, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

By BERNAMA

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