PUTRAJAYA – The government has assured that all schools nationwide will be equipped with basic infrastructure by this October, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The prime minister said that all schools are guaranteed to have basic fittings such as roofs and decent toilets, which is a higher priority than building monuments.
“Before the end of this year, specifically October, all schools in our country, such as national schools, Chinese schools, Tamil schools, and Arabic schools, are guaranteed to have basic infrastructure with roofs and toilets without exception.
“The provision of infrastructure is far more meaningful for millions of parents and students than (building) landmarks and large buildings,” he said during the Prime Minister’s 2023 National Day address at the Plenary Hall, Putrajaya International Convention Centre here today.
Also present were Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali and all cabinet ministers of the unity government.
The event saw a turnout of more than 6,000 attendees, mostly civil servants, in a display of patriotism and national pride while fostering the spirit of inclusivity and solidarity, thus bolstering the sense of unity.
In addition, Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan chairman, said the government’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), which will be launched on September 1, will make Malaysia a high-tech industrial country with digital transformation.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, insisted that the NIMP 2030 is not a regular industrial plan.
“The goal is to move Malaysia forward into an advanced industrial nation with top-notch technology, providing opportunities for many young people in new job areas. This also involves embracing digital transformation to enhance our capabilities and attractiveness for investments.
“Adopting digital changes in our industries won’t merely make Malaysia a top spot for investments again, but it will also make us stronger and more capable.
The prime minister said the country has gained the attention of several large companies, such as Tesla Inc from the United States, Geely from China, and Infineon Technologies from Germany, which have agreed to make Malaysia an important investment base.
He said that investments are crucial and can lead to Malaysia’s self-sufficiency and ensure jobs for the youth, preventing unemployment.
In addition, Anwar said the government will promptly conduct a mid-term assessment of the 12th Malaysia Plan right after the launch of NIMP 2023.
“This shift isn’t just about reviewing the original plans, it’s about adjusting and adapting for lasting development,” said Anwar. – August 30, 2023