‘Horizon scanning, strategic foresight vital’

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak says foresight and future studies have become increasingly important for Malaysia to realise Transformasi Nasional 2050 (TN50).

“Developed countries such as the United Kingdom, Finland and Singapore have started using horizon scanning and strategic foresight methodologies to ensure long-term planning for their country is met and suitable with the needs of the future,” he said, at the National Science Council (NSC) meeting here yesterday.

Foresight is a strategic tool for studying the future to systematically explore predictions and possibilities and how they can emerge from the present.

Najib lauded Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa for taking the lead in encouraging the use of scenario scanning methodologies in preparation for the National Action Plan.

“I was thrilled to know that the Public Service Department adopted foresight methodology in preparing its strategic plan with the Malaysia Foresight Institute (myForesight) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

“This shows our ability to apply knowledge and technology to benefit the people and the country.”

As the country continued to search for new economic and marketing opportunities, its impact on people must be considered.

“The impact on the people should be the utmost priority in considering the future,” he said.

Najib said change was inevitable and with it came the challenges of the 21st century, including globalisation, the digital era, economic crisis and disruptive technologies brought on by the fourth industrial revolution.

“To proactively handle this, we need to pursue knowledge. Knowledge is the new currency of the future,” he added.