PUTRAJAYA: Everyone must contribute to finding solutions to the drug and vape issues affecting Malaysian youths, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said that the government is ready to provide any form of assistance to eradicate this persistent problem.
"Please discuss the best ways to resolve this problem. Should there be funding, counselling, or religious outreach?
We have spent many years on this, but it is not yet solved," he said during the Seminar Kenegaraan Malaysia Madani on Wednesday (June 18).
Anwar mentioned that the issue was discussed in the Cabinet meeting earlier.
Themed “Guru Pemangkin Patriotisme Negara” (Teachers are the Catalyst of National Patriotism), the seminar was organised by the Akademi Kenegaraan Malaysia of the Prime Minister's Office.
About 1,000 educators, including retired teachers, teachers, and students, attended the event.
Anwar added that economic development must be balanced with knowledge and moral values.
He then said that while the country strives for development, a strong foundation in languages, culture, and ethics should also be emphasised.
“What’s the point of empowering the economy when leaders misuse their powers? Let’s pray that we remain steadfast in our commitment because power can be distracting,” he said.
He also noted that while the use of other languages is being emphasised, it does not mean Bahasa Malaysia should be sidelined.
“It’s not a zero-sum game. It doesn’t mean that when we talk about empowering other language skills, Bahasa Malaysia is being forgotten,” he added.
Anwar then said that with a balanced approach to national development, leaders should exemplify restraint in the pursuit of accumulating wealth.
He added that leaders must play their roles with responsibility and honesty.
“They should also work against the abuse of power to accumulate wealth. This is my duty, as the money belongs to the rakyat.
“The money should be returned to the rakyat so we can solve issues faced by the people,” he added.
Anwar called on retirees to continue to fight for the country beyond their retirement age.
“We should be strong and keep working hard to elevate the dignity of the country and its people.
“We inherited a rich culture and civilisation, and our children must continue to gain the knowledge to make our country great,” he added.
