BUKIT MERTAJAM, July 25 — Malaysia will not become a great and developed nation if its people remain trapped in outdated thinking that breeds hatred among one another, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Malaysians, particularly the younger generation, must reject divisive and racial politics and unite as a driving force for change to elevate the nation’s standing.
“Malaysia cannot become a great and developed nation if we remain trapped in outdated thinking that sows hatred among one another.
“Our youths must rise as one formidable force, drive change, and uplift the dignity of all the people of this country,” he said when officiating the closing ceremony of National Training Week (NTW) 2026 at Universiti Teknologi MARA Permatang Pauh today.
Also present were Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan.
Anwar added that the MADANI government adopts an approach of resolving issues affecting all segments of society through dialogue and inclusive policies, rather than inciting the people against one another.
The nation's future depends on the younger generation’s commitment to continuously enhancing their knowledge, skills, and discipline, while working together to enable the country to achieve greater success regionally and globally.
As such, he urged youths to seize the training and skills enhancement opportunities provided by the government to improve their employability and earning potential, while ensuring the country continues to have a highly skilled workforce.
The government, through the Human Resources Ministry and the Human Resource Development Corporation, will continue to expand training opportunities, including reskilling and upskilling programmes, to help Malaysians secure better jobs and higher incomes.
The Prime Minister also called on youths to make full use of NTW by exploring the wide range of training opportunities available and providing feedback to further strengthen the country’s skills development programmes.
Meanwhile, Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said Malaysia’s economy remains resilient despite global economic uncertainties, driven by ongoing economic reforms and government measures to shield the people from rising living costs.
Its recent achievements include the ringgit emerging as Asia’s best-performing currency, record-high investments, and robust economic growth.
