KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat warned Malaysians today to be on guard against an “economic tsunami” in his New Year’s message.
At a time when race and religion has dominated national politics, he pointed out that an economic catastrophe will affect everybody.
“The global economy is in intensive care. Recession and slowing growth are already impacting several major economies, including that of the United States — the world’s largest and a key export market for us in Malaysia,” he said.
“Exports are slowing; the fall in crude oil and palm oil prices is pinching our revenues; retrenchment is rearing its ugly head. Malaysians, who already are living with tightened belts, now face a period of uncertainty.”
The MCA leader said his party and Barisan Nasional (BN) has what it takes to “cushion” the economic impact and promises that the country will be able to “weather the storm”.
Ong argued that the government is an essential component in tackling the economy and has taken the necessary action through its investments in infrastructure and human capital development.
“My point is clear — during these trying times, leaders in government should exercise extra prudence in carrying out the obligations entrusted to them. We must not only do the right things in the right way but must be seen to be doing so.”
“Care must be taken to ensure that we uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency and accountability at every level of governance. Leakages in spending should not be tolerated,” he said.
He also sees the importance of attracting “the best brains and professionals” to help the country recover from the economic recession.
This is why he believes that Malaysia must embrace meritocracy.
“Meritocracy also dictates that we respect and acknowledge one’s views regardless of the colour of his or her skin, or the language and religion he or she speaks and preaches. Diversity and pluralism of viewpoints are our strength,” he said.
The Transport Minister explained that Malaysia’s ability to embrace its diversity is what makes the country different and resilient. This is why he is confident that the nation can overcome any hardships in the New Year.
“Nationalistic struggles and sacrifices which define what it is to be Malaysian must continue to be recognised. The rights and freedom to be treated as an equal Malaysian as enshrined in our Constitution shall be defended at all costs,” he added.
“A newly energised MCA will be fearless in speaking and acting for the equal interest, not only for the Chinese community, but for all Malaysians. But make no mistake, we may be passionate and sometimes fiery but as I have said this before, let us not equate dissent with disloyalty. There should be room in our Barisan Nasional coalition for pluralism of views.”
Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani
The Malaysian Insider
31/12/08
At a time when race and religion has dominated national politics, he pointed out that an economic catastrophe will affect everybody.
“The global economy is in intensive care. Recession and slowing growth are already impacting several major economies, including that of the United States — the world’s largest and a key export market for us in Malaysia,” he said.
“Exports are slowing; the fall in crude oil and palm oil prices is pinching our revenues; retrenchment is rearing its ugly head. Malaysians, who already are living with tightened belts, now face a period of uncertainty.”
The MCA leader said his party and Barisan Nasional (BN) has what it takes to “cushion” the economic impact and promises that the country will be able to “weather the storm”.
Ong argued that the government is an essential component in tackling the economy and has taken the necessary action through its investments in infrastructure and human capital development.
“My point is clear — during these trying times, leaders in government should exercise extra prudence in carrying out the obligations entrusted to them. We must not only do the right things in the right way but must be seen to be doing so.”
“Care must be taken to ensure that we uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency and accountability at every level of governance. Leakages in spending should not be tolerated,” he said.
He also sees the importance of attracting “the best brains and professionals” to help the country recover from the economic recession.
This is why he believes that Malaysia must embrace meritocracy.
“Meritocracy also dictates that we respect and acknowledge one’s views regardless of the colour of his or her skin, or the language and religion he or she speaks and preaches. Diversity and pluralism of viewpoints are our strength,” he said.
The Transport Minister explained that Malaysia’s ability to embrace its diversity is what makes the country different and resilient. This is why he is confident that the nation can overcome any hardships in the New Year.
“Nationalistic struggles and sacrifices which define what it is to be Malaysian must continue to be recognised. The rights and freedom to be treated as an equal Malaysian as enshrined in our Constitution shall be defended at all costs,” he added.
“A newly energised MCA will be fearless in speaking and acting for the equal interest, not only for the Chinese community, but for all Malaysians. But make no mistake, we may be passionate and sometimes fiery but as I have said this before, let us not equate dissent with disloyalty. There should be room in our Barisan Nasional coalition for pluralism of views.”
Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani
The Malaysian Insider
31/12/08
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