BN govt listens to needs of people – CM

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KOTA KINABALU: The Barisan Nasional government (BN) is attentive to the needs of the people, and will continue to deliver its promises and to serve everyone, regardless of race or religion, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.

The government is not one that plays the racial card, or that pits one race against another in order to win the hearts of others, stressed Musa in his Christmas message.

“As Malaysians who pledge our loyalty to the nation, we must not fall prey to such tactics that will destroy the thread of what we have all built so hard to build, and I hope Malaysians in Sabah continue to subscribe to 1Malaysia and practicse its principles as we move ahead in unity with the rest of the nation” he added.

According to Musa, in Sabah, Christmas is an important celebration where apart from religious obligations, open houses mark the celebration.

“Christians are able to welcome this celebration in peace and harmony, much like how we celebrate other festivities. This is indeed our way of life.

“The warmth that Malaysians are known for is reflected in the way everyone is welcomed at open houses and this unique tradition that we share is the basis for our solidarity.

“I am encouraged by the many charity events held in conjunction with Christmas, with various groups and corporate bodies extending a hand to the less fortunate. As Malaysians who care for one another, I commend you on your kindness and I hope more individuals and groups will reach out to people in need in years to come,” he said.

Musa also reminded Sabahans that as 2011 comes to a close, they must take stock of their achievements and look for solutions to plans that they were unable to accomplish.

He added that it is the right time to evaluate their shortcomings, and to plan for a better year ahead.”It is no longer about business as usual in Malaysia. As stressed by our Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, our nation is now going through a transformation process. This transformation is in every aspect of the way we do things, ranging from politics to economics and even in government.

“In a highly challenging and globalized world, it is pertinent for us to transform so that the nation is able to compete within the region and the world. I would also like to take this opportunity to share with you some of the Sabah Government’s achievements.

“We have been endorsed by several agencies such as Moody’s and RAM Rating Services for our financial achievements. The State Government is prudent in its spending, and we pledge to continue being financially sound through some of the measures that are already in place,” he said.

According to Musa, the government will also remain resourceful in the way it generates income, as it needs continuous funds to develop the State.

“I am pleased that with good financial planning and management, we were able to come up with our biggest Budget ever, allocating RM4.08 billion for 2012. The funding will mainly be used to facilitate socio-economic development in Sabah and for its people,” he added.

The State Government, he said, also thanked the Federal Government for providing funds, as it is not able to generate sufficient income for development that is needed in such a large state.

The State Government is able to bring better infrastructure, education, healthcare and community development projects through Federal funding, he pointed out.

“As we move into the New Year, I also wish to remind Barisan Nasional elected representatives to constantly listen to grouses and needs of the people, and solve them quickly. I also wish to stress here that the BN is a family that is strong, and one that will continue to consult each other in building a stronger Sabah and Malaysia.

“We need to be united, and to work together to avoid feelings of distrust and suspicion. I would like to take this opportunity to thank members of the security forces for their dedication and sacrifices in ensuring the safety of our nation.

“For the New Year, it is my hope that Malaysians in Sabah will record achievements in their respective fields of work and study. Together, we can help transform our State and nation, and put it at par with some of the best countries in the world.

“On that note, I wish our Christian friends a very Merry Christmas. To the people, I wish you a Happy New Year 2012,” Musa said.