Hold firm to 1M’sia concept – CM
Posted on August 19, 2012, Sunday
KOTA KINABALU: The stability enjoyed today is partly the fruit of commitment among Malaysians wanting to maintain unity.
“I cannot stress enough the importance of unity,” said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman, adding the 1Malaysia concept, the brainchild of Prime Minister Datuk Sri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak, is well accepted and is the way for all to always focus on supporting one another through both good and challenging times.
Calling Malaysians in Sabah to continue holding firm to the 1Malaysia concept and truly understand its aspirations in his Hari Raya Aidlfitri 2012 message, Musa said the Barisan Nasional government is one that has a proven record in improving livelihoods, and one that is consistent in treating each citizen equally regardless of background.
Musa said Malaysia is a nation that has a lot to be proud of, adding that the state of Sabah too has recorded many milestones in history, as it continues to grow and prosper with the rest of the country.
Today, Malaysia has made great progress in many sectors, and continues to strive for excellence.
“Our population is a melting pot of diverse races and beliefs, and it is for this reason our country has continued to see progress. Each individual is important, and each person holds knowledge and experience that will lead Malaysia to more success. We remain united, we work with one another, and we respect each other.
“However, despite our best efforts, our sincerity in helping the rakyat (people) is sometimes questioned by certain quarters. I would like to urge leaders and civil servants to focus their energies on finding solutions for the rakyat, and to not get drawn into debating allegations that are thrown against the government.”
In the past year alone, strides have been made in the implementation of the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) and the Government Transformation Programme (GTP).
The GTP recently launched its 2.0 version, and is a roadmap that charts the direction of the seven National Key Result Areas (NKRAs), and these initiatives, running in tandem with other programmes including the 10th Malaysia Plan are evidence of the government’s commitment in creating a better nation for all Malaysians.
In addition, the federal government has been generous in its allocations for Sabah and this has allowed them to further develop the state and to create jobs and economic spinoffs.
“Apart from large scale investments in critical economic sectors, bread and butter issues that impact Malaysians are constantly addressed. The rising cost of living is one of the issues that is given serious attention and is one of the seven NKRAs.
“The government puts the people’s interests first, and despite billions already spent on subsidies, RM500 in aid was given to households with a monthly income of less than RM3,000 through the 1Malaysia People’s Assistance scheme (BR1M).
“Recently, the federal government announced a half-month bonus or minimum payment of RM500 for civil servants, and a special payment of RM500 for pensioners. The Sabah state government also followed suit with a similar incentive for state civil servants. Only a government that has the best interests of its people will go to great lengths to provide bonuses and special incentives for its citizens,” said Musa.
The Prime Minister, he added, is also gathering feedback from citizens on what should be included in the National Budget for 2013, and this is yet another signal of how sensitive the BN is towards the needs of the people.
“While we rejoice during this celebration, we must also remember the less fortunate. I am pleased that various groups and individuals continue to bring cheer to those who are disadvantaged.
“Through Berbuka Puasa (breaking of fast) events, and presentation of Duit Raya (Raya money) on gifts in the form of hampers and clothing, you have kept the spirit of giving alive.
“I would also like to thank the armed forces, the police and other security related agencies for your services in safeguarding the state. Many are on duty during the celebration, unable to experience Raya with their families. You continue to make sacrifices to maintain peace and to safeguard the country’s sovereignty so that we can celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri and other festivities,” he said.
Worldwide, he added, Muslims have spent a month fasting during Ramadhan, fulfilling one of the five pillars of Islam.
“Ramadan gave us the opportunity to congregate each night in prayer, reminding us the positive effects of patience and abstinence, and allowed us to reflect on blessings. For Muslims, the dawn of Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a special time to seek forgiveness among family and friends.
“This celebration encourages us to strengthen ties not only among Muslims, but also with Malaysians from all walks of life through the practice of exchanging greetings at open houses.
“All praises to Allah Subhanahu Wataala because with His grace, today we welcome Hari Raya Aidilfitri, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. On behalf of my wife Faridah Tussin and our family, I extend Hari Raya Aidilfitri greetings to all Malaysians. We are blessed that we can welcome and celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri in a peaceful nation,” he said.
He added that on this day, let us all remember in prayers our brothers and sisters in other parts of the world who may not be able to celebrate the arrival of 1 Syawal due to war and other forms of oppression.
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