KUALA LUMPUR: The government and all parties, regardless of political beliefs, need to formulate a long-term plan to lift Malaysia back to the pinnacle of success, says Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.
His Majesty said that in order to face future challenges in the post-pandemic era, the country’s management needed to have a plan that covered various sectors and aspects of life.
“The country needs a stable government, supported by an efficient, transparent, business-friendly and people-friendly service delivery system and governance of integrity.
“In order to boost economic growth and make the country a major investment option in the region, it demands the understanding and sacrifice of all parties to create a stable and sustainable political landscape.
“I really hope that all political issues can be resolved immediately in order to prevent the country from falling into a confidence deficit that could affect the country’s image and future,” he said.
Any deficit of confidence in the country’s ability must be addressed soon to enable the country to rise again on the world stage, said the King when gracing the investiture ceremony of federal awards and honours held in conjunction with his official birthday celebration at Istana Negara here.
“At the same time, the people should also play a role in supporting the government’s efforts, while continuing to strive to face any challenge,” said Sultan Abdullah.
“The country’s recovery requires a close symbiosis between the government and my subjects.
“Unity and togetherness in a society with diverse backgrounds is a recipe and strength in shaping national aspirations.
“It is a pillar of the nation’s prosperity and contributes to peace and stability,” he said.
Bernama reported that the King also expressed his gratitude that the country had recorded improvements in economic growth last year.
He said the matter was achieved through an effective health management strategy and political understanding so that the country could resume taking steps to achieve the development agenda.
“The situation of Covid-19 has also improved. The country has now entered the transition to the endemic phase.
“I am very happy to see my subjects from various races and religions being more positive in their daily affairs,” he added.
Sultan Abdullah said that to ensure the survival and resilience of the economy post-Covid-19 pandemic, the government should continue wisely and explore new and innovative strategies.
The King also touched on the food security crisis, at a time when the world is facing various challenges.
His Majesty decreed that a long-term plan be drawn up to strengthen food security and ensure the cost of living is at an appropriate level.
“I hope that my government and leaders at all levels address the survival problems that plague some of my subjects, including the high cost of living as well as rising industrial and food commodity prices.
“My advice is, don’t let there be seeds of dispute any time the country is faced with food security problems and the rising cost of living.
“We should all focus on helping to restore the welfare of the people.
“An attitude such as bila sudah merah, kapur salahkan kunyit dan kunyit salahkan kapur (blaming each other when a situation goes wrong) will not help,” he added.
Sultan Abdullah also advised Malaysians to play a role by cultivating frugality and spending prudently.
His Majesty praised the initiatives to strengthen social protection implemented by the government, including the Keluarga Malaysia (Malaysian Family) hardcore poverty eradication programme.
The King expressed high hopes that the programme could achieve its target of eliminating hardcore poverty by 2025.
“Leaders are the backbone of the people’s hopes.
“The people’s happiness and hardship are the reflections that must be borne by every leader,” he added.
His Majesty, in his royal address in conjunction with his official birthday celebration, thanked all members of the administration, civil servants, members of the security forces and healthcare workers who had shown dedication to the country.
He advised the people to continue to practise personal healthcare to create a conducive and safe environment.
His Majesty also congratulated the 1,021 recipients of federal awards, honours and medals this year and hoped that the awards would inject a new spirit to continue to serve the community and the country.
