In spite of the many obstacles faced by the Madani government in 2023, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is hopeful that 2024 will bring positive changes to the country and its people. He emphasized the need for government leaders and its machinery to shift their focus on improving the country’s economy in order to reduce the people’s burden in the face of the rising cost of living.
“Hopefully, 2024 will bring a better and positive change to all Malaysians. It is the responsibility of the leaders and all machinery to shift our focus towards economy, economy and economy. This is to ensure we can ease the people’s struggle in terms of inflation, unemployment, cost of living, so that education standard, health and service to the public can be guaranteed,” he said in his New Year’s message yesterday.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the start of a brand new year will open another chapter of prosperity for a more meaningful life. “There must be many stories of joys and sorrows endured together for the country that we love. I, too, want a more developed and prosperous Malaysia,” he said in a video message yesterday.
While wishing everyone a Happy New Year, Ahmad Zahid hoped Malaysians would continue to be united in creating a more meaningful success. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof conveyed his message to fellow Malaysians to put their commitment into strengthening national unity. “Unity is the main key to racial harmony, the well-being of the people and prosperity of the country. The basis of a country’s strength is the unity of various layers of society in political, economic and social aspects. This is important as we shift our focus towards economic recovery, developing the country and ensuring the well-being of the people,” he said.
MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said after having gone through many ups and downs in the past year, it is time to look forward to the new year with greater hope for a better future. “May the beginning of a new year bring new opportunities that will allow us to reach new heights. I would like to wish everyone a very happy and blessed New Year 2024!” he said in Facebook post.
DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke pledged to continue playing a constructive role in enhancing the cooperation and sustainability of the unity government. He said the party is committed to ensure political stability, foster racial harmony and advance the people’s well-being. “We must manage every situation with a cool head and always adhere to the spirit of consensus. All governmental policies and key decisions can only be decided through discussion at the Cabinet meetings. No single party can dominate another in any decision. I am firmly committed to the principle of collective responsibility,” he said.
Senate president Tan Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, in a joint statement, reminded Malaysians of the core concept of the country’s Constitution. “Appreciating the concept of the supremacy of the Constitution is the core of a democratic system that protects fundamental rights and implements the principles of the people’s well-being,” they said.
Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin said going into the new year, the value of history should be highlighted. “From the moment of independence until the formation of Malaysia, this country was built from the sacrifices of the people, especially the bumiputera Malays, including Sabah and Sarawak. This diversity does not weaken us. Instead, it becomes a strength because all parties take responsibility to sow and nurture harmony among races based on the principles of the social contract that has been mutually agreed upon,” he said.
