PM Najib sings praises for meritocracy to poor

The low income group of people, be it from rural or urban areas, will be left behind in the wake of rapid development if a government implemented the socialist model of development that does not practice fairness and meritocracy.         

Prime Minister Najib Razak said therefore, whatever principles that remain a stumbling block must be abolished, just like what the present government is doing today, to ensure fairness becomes a reality, in line with the pillars of the 1Malaysia concept.         

"In line with the principle, the government's development models are not determined by the market forces and neither do we follow the socialist model of not favouring meritocracy or competitiveness.          

"What we need to do is to endorse excellence, skills through programmes that can promote fairness without affecting the principles of excellence and ability," he told reporters after launching the Changing Destiny of 1Malaysia Indian Children at the Port Dickson Polytechnic, Port Dickson today.         

Among those present were Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Mohamad Hasan, MIC President G Palanivel, Higher Education Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Information, Communications and Culture Minister Rais Yatim and Works Minister Shaziman Abu Mansor.           

Najib said the policy of total meritocracy implemented without any intervention from the government provides an effective platform for the lower income group and poor, to bridge the gap between the middle and high income group, and eliminate unfair practices among the people.         

"So, we must think of what programmes that can best suit who and who must carry out such programmes to ensure the fate of groups comprising the poor and low income group, are protected," he said.          

He said the implementation of the MDAIM programmes was to offer children from the Indian community, who do not have the necessary grades for entry into universities, an opportunity to pursue higher education courses.         

The initiative was taken because the government was concerned and recognised the role played by the Indian community and contributions towards the development of the country and to ensure they are not left behind in education and development.        

"The Indian community had toiled in the plantations to ensure Malaysia was a leading producer of rubber in the world, worked in the Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad, Public Works Department and other notable sectors," he said.               

Najib said through the MDAIM programme the government hopes to offer 1,600 Indian students an opportunity to continue their studies in pre-diploma courses for six months in various fields at polytechnics throughout the country while those selected would also receive an allowance of RM250 a month during the said duration.         

"In this way the current three percent quota awarded for Indian students will increase to 10 percent in a number of years. So, treat this as another 1Malaysia product. This is a reflection of Barisan Nasional's commitment, not an empty promise," he said.
    
- Bernama