KUALA LUMPUR: The Agenda Malaysia Biru should be built on consultation, stability and a shared commitment to the country’s long-term progress, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
“Malaysia Biru must be a Malaysia that is sovereign, united and innovative,” the MCA president said at the 12th Barisan Nasional Forum themed Agenda Malaysia Biru here last night.
The Agenda Malaysia Biru was unveiled by Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi at the Umno general assembly last month, where the Barisan chairman outlined the coalition’s proposed path for Malaysia in areas covering human capital, technical and vocation education and training (TVET), tax reform and locally created technology.
Dr Wee said Malaysia’s multiracial society required political parties to work through differences and seek common ground.
“We may differ in views, but we must sit down, discuss and find a solution. There cannot be one party that wins everything,” he said.
He said leaders should not adopt populist positions merely for short-term support but make decisions in the country’s long-term interest.
“Courage is not about shouting or quarrelling. Courage is about being willing to discuss difficult issues and resolve problems,” he said.
Dr Wee said TVET and technology must remain key priorities.
He cited Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) and Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) as examples of MCA’s efforts to widen access to education.
Malaysia, he said, must develop the skills needed for a changing economy, including artificial intelligence.
“We do not only want to compete. We want to be competitive,” he said, adding that Malaysians should be able to create and apply technology, rather than merely use innovations developed elsewhere.
Dr Wee also said that peace, security, stable homes and economic opportunities are important to the Chinese community.
Referring to MCA founder Tun Tan Cheng Lock’s “One Country, One People” vision, he said Chinese Malaysians want to grow deep roots in Malaysia and remain loyal to the country while also upholding their culture and securing their livelihoods.
