MALAYSIA must formulate plans that extend beyond one administration term, an economic cycle or even a single generation to ensure the country remains strong for the next 100 years, says Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
The Selangor Mentri Besar said the country should not merely focus on resolving current problems but also anticipate and make early preparations for future challenges.
He said strategic thinking was important to enable Malaysia to identify its strengths and weaknesses, make difficult choices and build capacity.
"The question is what decisions we need to make starting now so when we reach the next century, Malaysia and Selangor will be united, innovative, sovereign and fair to all people.
"We must have the courage to look ahead and shape a future that extends beyond a single term of administration, a single economic cycle or even a single generation," he said during the Bicara Perdana programme held in conjunction with Malaysia Day 2026 at Dewan Al Jazari, Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah in Shah Alam on Tuesday (Sept 15).
He said that Malaysia in its 100th year would be built on decisions and actions taken by the present generation, including efforts to strengthen unity and ensure that the diversity of its people continues to be a source of strength.
"Differences do not necessarily lead to division. Instead, they can become a strength if they are managed fairly, maturely, respectfully and constructively."
He said one of the major challenges that needed to be addressed was growing suspicion and prejudice among the people.
He said differences in identity, including religion and between generations, should not be magnified to the extent that they undermine efforts to build a united Malaysia.
He said every generation would face new challenges and the country must continually renew its approach based on knowledge, information and accurate data.
