PM urges NEP beneficiaries to pay it forward

 

Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has urged bumiputeras who have benefitted from the New Economic Policy (NEP) to pay it forward.

Speaking at the closing of the Bumiputera Economic Congress in Kuala Lumpur today, Muhyiddin said this was needed to herald a decade of 'kebangkitan semula bumiputera (bumiputera revival)'.

"The concept of 'paying it forward' or repaying a debt by helping others must be instilled to ensure a bumiputera ecosystem that is compassionate.

"I believe it is time for the beneficiaries of the NEP to show their gratitude by giving back to future generations.

"For instance, commerce is the best opportunity for the previous generations to provide the foundations for those who need mentorship capital and network capital," he said.

He said such an attitude would create a cycle that would take care of future generations.

Muhyiddin said while the bumiputera community has made strides in many areas, poverty is still more prevalent among the bumiputera. He also said bumiputera income levels are much lower compared to the Chinese.

He said his administration is currently formulating policies for government procurement that will ensure better monitoring and enforcement.

This, he said, proved the government's commitment to prioritising bumiputera companies.

The new Penjaya Kerjaya program, he said, will also help the bumiputera community through upskilling and reskilling.

"This initiative benefits all, regardless (whether the applicant) is a Malay, Iban, Melanau, or Kadazan," he said. - Mkini