SHAH ALAM, Feb 10 — Selangor’s development and progress are not focused solely on economic growth but also place strong emphasis on cultural and artistic programmes, says Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.
He said such initiatives help nurture human values, shape rational thinking and add depth to the state’s overall development.
According to Amirudin, history in several countries shows that development often began with independence movements that promoted reading and writing, eventually sparking social and national transformation.
“Literature and culture are among the core pillars in the development of any civilisation. Selangor will not sideline these aspects because they give soul to the state’s development and governance.
“Selangor has emerged as a champion of economic development, contributing 26.2 per cent to the national GDP in 2024, valued at RM432 billion, making it the only state to record an economic value exceeding RM400 billion. Last year up to September, the state created nearly 44,000 job opportunities and attracted RM51 billion in foreign and domestic investment.
“However, large-scale economic development will be incomplete if human development is neglected. Without human values, it risks producing a harsh society and widening the gap between the rich and the poor,” he said.
Amirudin was speaking at the Selangor International Literary and Cultural Dialogue (DASA) 2026 here last night, which was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He added that the state government had also refreshed its administrative theme to ensure that human values continue to be strengthened in every policy and implementation.
“Previously, we used the theme ‘Merakyatkan Ekonomi’, followed by ‘Peduli Rakyat’. Now, we have introduced ‘Iltizam Selangor Penyayang’, which encompasses various welfare programmes to assist the people.
“It is not merely about assessing value in terms of ringgit, but about nurturing human values among the people, regardless of wealth or status, through assistance, support and efforts to uplift lives together,” he said.
