‘Malaysia’s image internationally has improved’

There is a new and improved image of Malaysia at the international level, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Currently, he said the country is enjoying a much better view among the international community in light of improvements in its governance, as well as the assistance shown by civil servants to investors.

During recent official visits abroad, including the latest one to Germany, Anwar said he received feedback from foreign companies and investors impressed by our efficiency, lack of leakages and swift decision-making processes.

“Which is why they expressed interest in investing in the country,” Anwar added.

“They described our policies and our civil servants as being positive and I am thankful and proud to be working with such civil servants because the reception has been extraordinary.

“I did question if there were problems or if (the dealings) were delayed or if they were asked to give commissions but their replies were great and it made me feel better.

“If we can continue with this attitude, believe me, we will be able to boost our economy. I am confident of this,” he said in his speech during the Prime Minister’s Department monthly assembly here yesterday.

Anwar encouraged continued dedication to efficient governance, stressing the need to uplift Malaysia to greater heights.

“Although there are still small groups (of civil servants) who are problematic, the general view is that we are experiencing a better image now.

“Not just one or two companies are saying we are showing a new kind of discipline but all of them, especially those who have been cooperating with us for a long time,” he added.

Commenting on detractors accusing him and the government of corruption and abuse of power, Anwar pointed to the statistics and acceptance of the international community towards the country.

He said while he used to enjoy going abroad when he was younger, this was not the case anymore, adding that he did not go for his personal satisfaction.

“I am not young anymore, I don’t have the same energy. I go because I have to, for the sake of the country. If we don’t engage with them, we wouldn’t have got such good support.

“All I did was go to meetings. I don’t go to meetings one day and play golf the next day. No, that was the old tradition.

“The only extra things I did were meet with European Islamic scholars to speak about Islamophobia and go for the occasional power walk. If these are the wrong things to do, then I apologise.”