KUALA LUMPUR – In a bold move aimed at steering Malaysia toward a brighter future, Perikatan Nasional (PN) unveils a comprehensive game plan emphasising economic revival, political stability, and social unity.
Speaking at the Yusof Ishak Institute (ISEAS) in Singapore today, PN deputy chairman Datuk Sri Hamzah Zainudin said that the strategic blueprint underscores the coalition’s commitment to transforming Malaysia into a high-income nation while fostering inclusive governance and sustainable development.
Hamzah was interviewed by Choi Shing Kwok, who is ISEAS director and chief executive office and head of the Asean Studies Centre and Singapore APEC Studies Centre at the institute.
Joining Hamzah at ISEAS today were former law minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, former foreign affairs minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah, and former chairman of the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan.
During the interview, Hamzah said that at the heart of the plan is a vision to elevate Malaysia from its current middle-income status as PN advocates for structural reforms, responsible fiscal discipline, and a balanced approach to development and welfare programs.
“A key focus is on attracting foreign investment by improving Malaysia’s ranking in the Ease of Doing Business index, restoring investor confidence, and encouraging innovation within capital markets.
“Recognising vulnerabilities in food security and reliance on foreign workers, we emphasise boosting domestic agriculture and investing in automation and workforce training. At the same time,
“This initiative aims to promote self-sufficiency and create job opportunities for Malaysians, ultimately reducing dependency on imports and foreign labour,” the opposition leader said during his session at the institute.
He said that by 2023 alone, Malaysia imported over RM75 billion worth of food – a figure that is both staggering and unsustainable.
At the same time, he noted that PN’s plan highlights the importance of technological advancement, including the adoption of artificial intelligence, green energy solutions, and the digital economy.
Hamzah said that PN stresses the need to align education and workforce policies with these technological demands to prepare Malaysians for the future.
Meanwhile, acknowledging current political challenges, Hamzah said that PN calls for a “new political reset” to foster social cohesion and unity, citing that the coalition advocates for leadership characterised by honesty, inclusiveness, and fairness, aiming to rebuild trust and stability across the nation.
“Central to PN’s vision is the pursuit of a national consensus that transcends race and religion, that emphasises shared goals, prosperity, and compassionate governance as pillars for uniting Malaysians and fostering a sense of collective purpose”
Hamzah added that Malaysia’s diverse society is both its greatest strength and biggest challenge, adding that when unity is taken for granted, the country’s diversity can shift from being a positive force to a source of conflict.
“I believe – now more than ever – that we need to build a New National Consensus that is not limited to one race, one religion, or one region but one that unites the political class, the religious voices, the civil society and above all, the rakyat.
“I want to point out that the last significant political change occurred in 1970, following the tragic racial events of May 13, 1969. This led to many years of peace and development.
“I believe the peace and progress we experienced during that time were due to the trust the people had in the government. This trust allowed them to tolerate, accommodate, and respect each other across different racial, religious, and cultural backgrounds.
“The mission of PN is to foster political stability in Malaysia, enabling the country to grow, unite, and thrive. Today, we need a new reset to foster social harmony.
“The basis for this political reset is leadership that is not only accepted by the majority but also respected by everyone,” said Hamzah, who is the anointed successor of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.
At the same time, Hamzah affirms that Malaysia is not a failed state but requires strategic institutional and economic corrections, adding that PN leaders express confidence in the nation’s potential and commit to uniting Malaysians under a clear, inclusive plan for a better future.
With this comprehensive roadmap, Hamzah said that PN aims to steer Malaysia toward sustainable growth, social harmony, and global competitiveness.
“The plan signals a hopeful future where strategic reforms and inclusive governance pave the way for a prosperous and united Malaysia,” he said. – May 22, 2025