Najib concerned about lack of investment in quality education in Muslim countries

KUCHING: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak yesterday raised his concerns on the lack of investment in quality education and basic infrastructure by some Muslim countries.

He expressed sadness over the matter when he highlighted the importance of change in the education system, which was necessary for any nation to embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

“Sadly, much of the Muslim world lacks investments in the right kind of quality education. Indeed, there are vast numbers of people who do not even have access to basic necessities, like water, healthcare... even basic education.

“There is a huge challenge for the ummah and it reminds us that we must always put our people at the heart of our policies,” he said in his keynote address at the opening of the 13th World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF) at the Borneo Convention Centre here yesterday.

Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg also delivered a special address.

Najib said Malaysia had longterm plans to make the country more receptive to change.

“That is why, in line with our aim of becoming one of the top 20 economies in the world by the year 2050, the government is placing special focus on innovation and creativity through our national development initiative — Transformasi Nasional 2050, or TN50.”

He said it was imperative for all countries to have an inclusive economic framework to prepare for disruptive change and the industrial revolution.

“As we speak of the fourth revolution, I am reminded of the fourth successor of our Prophet Muhammad, Imam Ali, who instructed Muslims (to) ‘rear your children for a time different from your own’.

“We heed this teaching by providing support and training to those whose jobs may be displaced by new technology.

“We also provide assistance to those who, through no fault of their own, may be in danger of being left behind.

“Our eagerness to build the societies and cities of the future must be matched by our compassion. For we, as Muslims, should know above all the importance of community, and our duties to our fellow men and women.”