TAPPING INTO CREATIVITY
They can be role models with strong influence over the public, says PM
PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said entertainers were role models who were influential in spurring the direction of the nation and shaping of the National Transformation 2050 (TN50).
He said those in the industry could not only shape the national direction in the creative and entertainment sectors but also shape the face of the nation and an excellent society.
He said unity was a must among players in the entertainment industry as they had strong influence over the public.
He said this last night during the TN50 dialogue session with movers and shakers in the entertainment industry.
Citing the massive following enjoyed by local entertainers via social media platforms, he noted that actress Nora Danish had 4.7 million followers while comedian Zizan Razak had 4.1 million.
“Entertainers, be it singers, ac- tors, musicians, composers or comedians, are crucial role models, especially to young Malaysians.
“Whenever you are acting or singing, you are communicating with the people. You are important to determine the country’s future and ensure that nobody can undermine Malaysia.
“I believe outstanding artistes can help shape the future generation to lift the nation’s status and be our aspiration,” Najib said at the dialogue, which lasted two hours.
Among those present were producer Datuk Yusof Haslam, veteran singer Datuk DJ Dave, actor Datuk Rosyam Nor, local television personality Datuk Aznil Nawawi and comedian Harith Iskandar.
The prime minister’s wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, and Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak were also present.
Najib urged those in the entertainment industry to play their role in making Malaysia a first-rate nation.
“We have started mega projects, including the Mass Rail Transit, High-Speed Rail, Bandar Malaysia and East Coast Rail Link projects. And, this is only the beginning.”
He said those in the entertainment industry must not be marginalised, but should be placed in the mainstream agenda.
The dialogue, moderated by Rosyam, saw more than 300 people sharing their aspirations and views with Najib on how they expected things would be by 2050.
The prime minister said the government wanted to make Malaysian culture and arts a brand at the international level.
The issues and views raised included the welfare of the artistes, the need for better facilities, including business loans and entrepreneur training, study loans and better healthcare schemes for those in the entertainment industry.