I can't do this alone, Maszlee tells Education Ministry and teachers

Maszlee Malik has appealed to his colleagues in the Education Ministry and educators to work together to shape a new generation of Malaysians.

Speaking at a forum in Putrajaya today, the education minister spoke of Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's vision to emulate the work ethic and values of the Japanese.

"The prime minister had said that he first brought it up in 1971, and when he became the prime minister (in 1981), but it was not successful even until today.

"He urged me to continue his struggle to advocate these values, which, among others, include integrity and feeling ‘ashamed’ (malu) when unable to deliver," he said.

"I cannot do this alone. If a giant and a statesperson cannot achieve it, then I am too weak to do it all by myself. My hopes lie in educators and the people at the ministry.

"Together, we can build a new generation of Malaysians, we can bring change. We will continue and complete the struggle of the prime minister," he added.

Upon assuming office for the second time after the May 9 polls, Mahathir had expressed his intention to revisit the 'Look East' policy he established in 1982, which urges Malaysians to emulate the values and principles of East Asia countries, especially Japan. 

Maszlee also told the forum that the prime minister had instructed him to revamp the national education system in the country, but to do so in stages, so as to not cause shock to stakeholders.  - Mkini