Malaysia showed mettle as an equal partner

PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s visit to the White House marked a new era in international relations between an emerging nation and an established and mature one.

Normally, the head of state of a small country like Malaysia would have to pay homage and be subservient when visiting a mighty and powerful country like the United States. But not Malaysia, which showed its mettle as an equal partner – taking the bull by the horn, so to speak.

Najib visited the US not to curry favour but to discuss and deliberate on matters of common interests that are currently besetting the world. Malaysia aims to lend its expertise in the fight against ter- rorism to ensure a safe world and to seek justice for the downtrodden and marginalised. And the US is forever grateful for our pledges.

More than that, Malaysia has pledged to help strengthen the US economy by investing in infrastructure development to the tune of US$20bil. That speaks volumes of the strength of Malaysia’s economy.

But there are voices who think otherwise and accuse the Government of being foolhardy. Such voices smack of conservative and orthodox thinking that is afraid to venture and explore opportunities and take calculated risks that may bring financial and indirect benefits.

Contrary to the current perception of the heavy burden of our national debt and the weak ringgit, Malaysia still has the means and gumption to invest abroad to help our strong and strategic ally.

This international engagement has raised Malaysia’s image as a progressive nation with ample resources at its disposal.

In one swoop, it has dispelled the notion of Malaysia being a third world country looking for handouts. In fact, it has showed that it is willing to take bold and unconventional measures that, to the sedentary mind, may seem absurd and unrealistic.

Be advised that the meek will never inherit the earth. Malaysia is a global player and subservient to none, and it is willing to make sacrifices to enhance its image globally.

At times, we have to throw caution to the wind, be adventurous and ride the turbulent waves even into the storm. If not for anything else, the experience would augur well for our future endeavour.

No doubt we may be ridiculed and experience discomfort but the path towards success has never been a bed of roses. There are thorns along the way that may cause us cuts and bleeding. That is the way it is.

Malaysia has never been afraid to accept challenges and to take the untrodden path, which may seem foolhardy, but time will tell.