‘SECURITY FORCES VITAL TO ECONOMY’
Younger generation must adopt their fighting spirit to raise nation’s standards, says Najib
YOUNG Malaysians, especially those of the Transformasi Nasional 2050 (TN50) generation, should emulate the strong sense of patriotism upheld by the nation’s warriors.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak made the call at the 49th Warriors Day celebration at Dataran Pahlawan Negara here yesterday.
“The younger generation must continue with the fighting spirit.
“With such spirit and courage, Malaysia can achieve its aim of becoming one of the top 20 nations (by 2050),” he said.
Present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein, Malaysian Armed Forces chief General Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor and Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohamad Fuzi Harun.
Najib said Malaysia’s security forces were the key assets in upholding the country’s peace and security.
Najib said Malaysia was able to continue expanding its economy and improve global rankings in many areas because of the armed forces’ and police’s contributions.
“With peace and security, Malaysia (was able to) grow its economy by 5.8 per cent in the second quarter, among the highest (economic growth rates) in the world,” he said.
Najib said Malaysia’s peace and security had allowed the country to do well in the Global Peace Index and Global Competitiveness Index 2017-2018.
“Without safety, the people of Malaysia would not be able to have the peace they currently enjoy.
“(Since Malaysia has peace and security), investors have faith in Malaysia, and tourists come to visit us,” he added.
Based on the security forces' huge sacrifices, Najib said, they deserved to be remembered and appreciated on a daily basis, not only during Warriors Day celebrations.
“If we internalise (their contributions and sacrifices), we should remember them every day, 24 hours. Why do I say this? (Because) without them, peace and security will not (be maintained) and the people could become victims of violence.”
Najib added that the government will continue to support the security forces by looking after their welfare and providing facilities for those who were in service, as well as the veterans.