PETALING JAYA: Civil society organisation G25 wishes to see a more transparent and proactive government that engages with the people on matters of public interest.
This includes but is not limited to eradicating poverty and bridging income inequality, it said in a New Year message on Thursday (Dec 28).
G25 said it hoped to see government plans for next year that will focus on the economy and the betterment of Malaysians at all levels of society.
“We aspire for our country to be free from the evils of corruption, injustice and disharmony.
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"Towards this end we must endeavour to make practical moves, like ensuring the strengthening, independence and transparency of our key institutions of governance to help keep (any) social malaise in check.
“We fervently hope the country’s leaders will place emphasis on these efforts for democracy to work well and allow Malaysia to progress (in) upholding human rights and individual freedoms.
"Increased confidence in our institutions of governance will bode well for confidence in our economy," it added.
G25 also said it looked forward to "a more prosperous, united and harmonious nation under the enlightened and benign rule of the 17th Yang Di-Pertuan Agong".
It added that it would continue to support the government in its efforts to develop the country to become one of the most successful among developing nations, and ultimately a developed nation.
It also hoped for greater emphasis on improving and strengthening the education system to respond to the disruptions caused by the pandemic and to address the myriad global challenges.
“We urge the government to engage (with) stakeholders before making any significant decisions which may affect our children's education.
“Raising the quality of education, including inculcating critical thinking and English language proficiency in our national schools for our children to meet the needs of the future global and technological workspace, is an imperative for higher education, employability and the future of the nation,” it said.
