State leaders hope for economic growth, stable govt in 2023

On the threshold of the New Year, several state leaders underscored their resolution and hope to enhance state government administrations in 2023.

In his New Year message, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow gave a commitment that the state government under his administration will continue to focus on the recovery of sectors affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Chow said recovery efforts were in line with the spirit to accelerate the achievement of Penang’s Vision 2030, which is towards a smart and green state based on the aspirations of a united government.

“The year 2022 is about to draw down its curtains, with various ups and downs including major changes in the country’s democratic landscape with the formation of a unity government at the federal level.

“May this new chapter begin with a rejuvenated determination for the sake of a harmonious and prosperous state and nation,” he said.

Pahang Menteri Besar Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, meanwhile, called on all parties to give their utmost commitment throughout the coming year and steer the state past the previous year’s milestones.

Wan Rosdy said “Pahang should prosper in every way”, including in economic aspects and people’s livelihood, which can be achieved if all at large reject any attempt that could bring turbidity including in terms of politics.

“Often, every new year brings with it new challenges. However, our attitude and actions should stay positive. Hopefully, initial efforts will pre-empt (obstacles) and ‘be prepared for rainy days’ by drawing up various development plans and assistance to help face 2023 in a fully prepared stage,” he said.

Meanwhile, Terengganu Menteri Besar Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar said with the curtain coming down on 2022, it too marks the end of the 14th term of the state administration.

“Since being entrusted to govern this state in 2018, my primary wish is to lead a change in the mindset and politics of the people to achieve harmony in political consensus and unification of the ummah.

“Even though this unification seems somewhat slow, we will ensure that there is always a notch up in this effort,” he said, describing the task as arduous and full of challenges.

He said his aspirations and determination for the state and country have remained intact for the past four years with his perseverance undiminished.

- Bernama

Selangor sultan: Put aside political differences to face challenges

 

Selangor ruler Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah and Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin urged the people to put aside political ideologies and differences to tackle problems and challenges that the country is facing.

The sultan warned all quarters, especially politicians, not to fight with each other or focus on personal interests to the point of neglecting their responsibilities to serve the people.

“Less talk, more action. I also hope that the people will continue to prioritise peace and harmony and avoid touching on sensitive issues that could harm the unity between races,” he said in a post on Selangor Royal Office Facebook in conjunction with the new year.

Sultan Sharafuddin and Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin said that all parties must work together to rebuild the country that is recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic and elevate it to a better level in all aspects, including social, political, and economic.

They also wished Malaysians, the Selangor people particularly, Happy New Year 2023 and prayed that the new year would shine brighter for them.

“I also call on the people to make it their new year’s resolution to be prudent in managing the economy and daily lifestyle, especially in the face of world economic outlook for 2023 which is quite alarming,” he added.

- Bernama

In NYE message, PM issues reminder against corruption

 

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has drawn on lessons from history as Malaysians ready for the new year, in his speech that was delivered during a function at Masjid Putra, Putrajaya, held in lieu of the cancelled customary annual concert and countdown.

Having just passed his first month in office, Anwar (above) reflected on changes introduced under his administration so far, including weeding out corrupt practices from within a “small segment” of the civil service.

“There are enforcement authorities found to still be careless, continuing old practices of imposing extra payments or demanding gifts.

“As I’m speaking here in this mosque today, I ask for full cooperation because I will not compromise with any elements capable of destroying our country,” he said.

The prime minister added that there are more honest law enforcers compared to the smaller corrupt elements, that he likened to “termites”, and the latter group should be eradicated.

At the same time, Anwar noted that since taking office, detractors had accused the government - formed through cooperation between Pakatan Harapan, BN, and others - of harbouring corrupt elements from past administrations.

He, however, noted that the same individuals now attacking the government - including former prime ministers and former finance ministers - were also allegedly responsible for the looting of billions in public funds.

“So my advice would be that this government will ensure that at least a portion of the looted funds will be returned. It is not a small sum.

“There are those who said Anwar should move on. If there was only a personal impact on me, I can forgive and I have forgiven.

“But if there is an impact on the people, then there is no power that allows the prime minister to let go of the billions that were looted while they were in power,” he said, adding that law enforcers must play a role in the recovery effort. - Mkini