KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 27 — The Madani Philosophy could not be sustained if Malaysia looks purely in terms of technological change or transformation without the care and compassion that would ensure that every single citizen in the country is given access to connectivity, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
It is not just a matter of technology but of ensuring every single citizen, from the urban squatters or urban poor, to the remotest area in Sabah or Sarawak, is given access to connectivity.
“Otherwise, to my mind, it is not sustainable,” he said in closing remarks at the Malaysia ICT Summit 2023, organised by Huawei Technologies (M) Sdn Bhd today.
Anwar said sustainability is not to benefit the few, the urban elite, or the ruling clique but to benefit every citizen in the country.
“That is why we do not represent a view using the race card in this country,” he stressed.
Digital transformation requires a new mindset, attitude and preparedness, not only to learn but also to share and the pace must change.
“We will have to respond accordingly not only through digital transformation but to make sure that there is ease of doing business and clarity in policy.
“That is why we have pronounced the Madani Economy, National Energy Transition Roadmap, New Industrial Master Plan, and even our mid-term review of the 12th Malaysia Plan,” Anwar pointed out.
He added the government has made a bold decision to ensure the country benefits from the phenomenal change, advancements, and development in the information technology industry.
“We made the decision years ago by the past administration to only work on a single network, but I think after extensive discussion and debates, and even people like me having to learn and explore the innovation and technology deeply.
"We have decided to allow for a dual network, and that is the decision for more effective participation by Huawei,” Anwar said.
It was not an easy decision because the conventional view in some parts of the world was about security and the capacity of new industries.
“We in Malaysia, with this Madani Philosophy and Madani Economy, decided, and I believe rightly, that as we (benefitted) from the West, we also should benefit from the East.
“The United States continues to be a reliable friend, but we have seen that our neighbour China has shown a lot of interest and friendship to make sure that neighbours prosper together,” Anwar said, adding that Malaysia, as a fiercely independent nation, should be bold enough to make a decision and decide what is best for the country," he said.
— Bernama
