Dr M: Malaysia will be great again

‘Have faith in our people to revive country’

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will be made great again, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has pledged.

“It takes time to bring about an administration by the rule of law. But, believe me, the criminals will eventually be punished in accordance with the offences they committed,” the Prime Minister said in his message to mark National Day today.

In the meantime, he said the people and government must work together to “revive” the country although he said the task would be tedious.

Dr Mahathir related how Malaysia used to be an Asian tiger and was on track to become a developed nation by 2020.

“Unfortunately, a change in the administration brought about a change of policies and approach.

“The legal systems of democracy were discarded and replaced with other means.

“As a result, Vision 2020 became an empty dream.

“Such was the damage and pressure that the people endured, until they felt they had achieved Independence once again when the 14th General Election brought about a change of government.

“But benefits do not come rushing just because victory has been achieved. The action against the criminals, too, cannot be fulfilled immediately,” added Dr Mahathir.

He assured the people that the country would be governed well, and that his administration would exercise thrift, be disciplined and not succumb to greed.

“This is being done. The success in reducing debt is being seen, although it is still a little.

“The damaged administrative machinery has been restored. God willing, the action is being taken to nurse the nation to health again,” he said.

But the Prime Minister said the people needed to play their role.

Dr Mahathir said the present government would not be able to provide money like how it was in the past as this would jeopardise the recovery process.

“After all, this government does not steal public funds to give part of the loot to the people,” he added.

Dr Mahathir also outlined what his administration planned to do.

“This government will create more jobs and business opportunities, provide education and training as well as scholarships.

“Workers’ skill will be enhanced so that their income can grow. We will also raise wages according to ability.

“The government will give incentives and rewards to those who raise productivity at the lowest cost. The rising prices of industrial products must be controlled,” he said.

As for the poor and disabled, Dr Mahathir assured that they would be given “more meaningful aid” than BR1M.

Dr Mahathir likened this year’s National Day as “our second Independence.”

“We are free from the shackles of a ruthless regime. This Pakatan Harapan government guarantees justice for all the people, irrespective of race or religion.

“Hopefully, our aspiration for Malaysia to be progressive, peaceful and fair will remain forever.

“Sayangi Malaysiaku, love this Malaysia of ours,” he concluded.

The damaged administrative machinery has been restored. God willing, the action is being taken to nurse the nation to health again. Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad