Najib: Strategic foresight vital to achieving TN50 goals

PUTRAJAYA: The ability to have a vision of the future through strategic foresight is important if the goals of the National Transformation 2050 (TN50) plan are to be achieved, said the Prime Minister.

Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said developed countries such as Britain, Finland and Singapore have strategic foresight methodologies to ensure that their country's long-term plans are in line with their future needs.

In fact, he said, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa himself had spearheaded and encouraged the use of scenario scanning methodology in the preparation of national action plans.

He said he was excited when the Public Service Department also adopted foresight methodology when preparing its strategic plan, with the cooperation of the Malaysian Foresight Institute and the United Nations Development Programme.

“This shows the country’s ability to apply science and technology to ensure the wellbeing of the people and nation. Well done!” he said after chairing the National Science Council meeting yesterday.

Najib said the launch of the first route of the Mass Rapid Transit project on July 17 was also a success of the Government in bringing about a landscape change not only in terms of national development but also in modern public transporation which will be enjoyed by 1.2 million Malaysians.

“While we study the future and look for new economic and market opportunities available, we must also ensure the impact on the people remains a priority,” he said.