CM: Either we stay afloat or drown together

The state will not see progress if any one segment of society is ignored in the march towards development, says Chief Minister Datuk Sulaiman Md Ali (pic).

In an interview to mark his first 100 days in office, he said that likewise, things could not move fast enough if the state failed to embrace technology to attract foreign direct investments as well as tourists.

“Covid-19 and the George Floyd (in the United States) incident are eye-openers to all of us in Melaka that we can no longer take things for granted.

“We are all in the same boat. Either we stay afloat or drown together,” said Sulaiman, who was sworn in as the 12th Melaka Chief Minister on March 9.

“Covid-19 has taught us that it is time to reflect within and embrace all humanity as one,” he said, adding that his government realised that the spirit of oneness was needed constantly, more so during a pandemic.

Sulaiman said it was not enough to tell others to practise unity and peace without the state government leading the way.

“I am working towards achieving this and I want to prove it,” he said, adding that he had entertained the views and suggestions from Opposition leaders in the state.

Sulaiman admitted there was miscommunication over the sale and consumption of alcohol in the state recently.

“State MCA leaders met me and I gave them the assurance that the current administration has no intention of taking away the rights and freedom of locals.

“I was talking about the sale of alcohol during the movement control order period and drink-driving cases when interviewed by the media earlier this month,” he said.

On his communication style, Sulaiman said he preferred substance over form, and for plans for be firmed up first before making them public.

“Some say that I am too quiet, but for me, there must be substance when making an announcement on public initiatives or holding a press conference,” he said.

On his achievements within the first 100 days, Sulaiman said these included reducing the state government’s debt with the Federal Government by RM162.88mil.

As for ushering Melaka towards the digital era, he said the current situation had underscored the importance of an app-based economy. He said it was time the state come up with more user-friendly applications to improve the mechanism for luring foreign investors.

“We recently launched an app for tourists called Melaka eXcess. We will also explore other digital methods to attract investors,” he said.