KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 — National development cannot be based solely on physical achievements or megaprojects, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
On the contrary, Anwar said national development must be enriched with values, identity, and cultural elements, which reflect Malaysia’s unique character and are deeply rooted in the nation’s history and the soul of its people.
Anwar said that the matter was among the issues discussed during a courtesy call by members of the National Cultural Council, an independent body under the purview of the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, which serves as an advisory body on matters related to national arts, culture and heritage, at his office in Putrajaya today.
“During the meeting, the discussion also touched on efforts to broaden the community’s understanding of the concept of culture, which should not be viewed narrowly as merely involving traditional music or attire,” he said.
“… but as a system of values which encompasses the nation’s way of life, thinking, and heritage,” said Anwar in a Facebook post.
— Bernama
