RM50mil for ‘Hati Rakyat’ programme

KUALA LUMPUR: The Government has approved a RM50mil allocation to the Wo­­men, Family and Community Development Ministry for the Hati Rakyat (People’s Heart) programme beginning next month.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the funds were to assist single mothers, those with special needs and senior citizens.

“It serves as a form of social safety net for those who are vulnerable,” he said during the National Council of Women’s Organisations golden jubilee celebration yesterday.

The funds will be given according to needs of the groups mentioned, he said.

Najib said that the funds could be used to provide training for senior citizens or buying adult diapers or wheel chairs.

The programme would be combined with the 1Azam programme that enables the poor to do small business, he said, adding that he hoped the funds would reach the expected target groups.

(Source: The Star Online)

50 new Innovation Business Opportunities offered

It’s all in here: Najib holding up the Wealth for Malaysia book after announcing AIM’s Score Card for last year in Putrajaya.

 

PUTRAJAYA: A total of 50 more Innovation Business Opportunities (IBOs) with potential revenue of RM950mil have been made available.

The IBOs range from a tropical clothes dryer and a salt replacement seaweed additive to a 5-in-1 machine for padi field preparation and a dual-locking system for motorcycles.

These are offered through bidding, which started yesterday.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the opening of the new IBOs was spurred by the overwhelming response to the previous two offerings. “The 92 earlier IBOs with a Year-3 revenue potential of RM2bil received encouraging response from investors.

“I am happy to announce 50 more new IBOs available for bidding.

Najib: Government to hasten effort to make changes to pro-women legislation

KUALA LUMPUR: Pro-women legislation is to be given due attention and there will not be a repeat of waiting at least seven years for a Bill to be passed, as what happened with the Domestic Violence Act.

“I guarantee you, for something good, it will not take seven years,” Datuk Seri Najib Razak said at the National Council of Women's Organisations (NCWO) golden jubilee celebrations here yesterday.

The Prime Minister assured that the Government would hasten effort to make changes to legislation, regulations, practices and thinking that obstructed the progress of women.

Najib, who is also Women, Family and Community Development Minister, invited NCWO to come up with a working paper on advancing the cause of women.

NCWO president Tan Sri Prof Dr Sharifah Hapsah Syed Hasan Shahabudin said the council would send an updated version of a working paper to Najib as soon as possible.

She stressed the need for changes for women to be made speedily.

NCWO had handed over a memorandum of the draft law on domestic violence in 1987 but it was only passed by Parliament in 1994 and implemented in 1996, she noted.

Dr Sharifah said laws, policies, structures and administrative processes needed to be reviewed and changed so that women would no longer face discrimination.

RM100 aid benefits 45,991 kids in Miri District

MIRI: A total of 45,991 school children from 60 primary and secondary schools in Miri District stand to benefit from the government’s RM100 schooling aid.

Political secretary to the Minister of Energy, Green Technology and Water Datuk Sebastian Ting said the Ministry of Education only has three days left to complete distribution of the aid nationwide.

“In Miri District, including Sibuti, almost all schools have distributed the aid,” he told The Borneo Post after distributing the aid at SMK St Columba here yesterday.

Ting said the initiative by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak was the second time to be given to schools, and that it benefitted five million school children nationwide.

“The assistance is estimated to cost the government about RM540 million. It is meant to help alleviate the financial burden of parents,” he said, adding that the timing was great as the new school year had just started.

Turning his attention to parents, Ting advised them to make good use of the money by buying things such as stationery and books.

“Najib has been so caring and would always take care of the people’s welfare in line with his 1Malaysia slogan of ‘People First, Performance Now’.

“What he promised, he will deliver.”

(Source: The Borneo Post)

BN job fair is back to help grads

PETALING JAYA: The Barisan Nasional Youth Job Fair is back, with additional features to cater for the needs of graduates who are still jobless.

Organising chairman Nazir Hussin Akhtar Hussin said that the fair would also serve as a platform for youths to obtain clear information about the Government's initiatives to help them in various careers.

He said the fair was being held again due to overwhelming response given to the nationwide event last year and in 2011.

Nazir Hussin said the carnival-like fair would kick off this year in Kedah on Jan 31 before moving on to Terengganu (Feb 22) and Sabah (March 2). The events will be held for two days at each venue.

Nazir Hussin said the fair's finale would be held at Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur at a date to be announced later.

He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak would grace the events in Kedah and Terengganu.

“The BN Job Fair is not politically motivated,” Nazir Hussin said. “The BN Youth secretariat is taking this responsibility to offer the nation's youths the best chances to build a better future in line with the Government's aims.

“We welcome the support and participation of employers from the government sector, government-linked companies and the corporate sector,” he said, adding that these sectors could also offer skills and training opportunities, entrepreneurship mentoring, counselling and business loans to visitors.

Enquiries can be made at the secretariat via www.bnyouthjobfair.my.

(Source: The Star Online)

Govt approves RM50mil to carry out Hati Rakyat programmes

KUALA LUMPUR: The Government has approved a RM50mil allocation for the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry to carry out the "Hati Rakyat" (People's Heart) programme starting next month.

The announcement was made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who is also the Women, Family and Community Development Minister, during the National Council for Women's Organisation's Golden Jubilee celebrations at the Dewan Perdana Felda here Tuesday.

Najib said the allocation is to assist needy single mothers, people with special needs and senior citizens.
"The assistance may be used for training, buy wheelchairs, pampers etc for senior citizens.

"The monetary assistance will be added on to the 1Azam programme so as to enable women who aspire to start their own small businesses,to get assistance," he said in his speech when officially opening the celebrations.
Najib also hoped all forms of assistance would reach the targeted groups. - Bernama

(Source: The Star Online)

PM urges youths to play role in the betterment of the country

KUALA LUMPUR: Youths should take the initiative to be the agent of change for the betterment of the country, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

“Change is inevitable and critical. The best thing to do is step up and change,” he said in his opening address at the Youth Action Forum 2013 at PWTC yesterday.

The forum serves as a platform to showcase the work and ideas of youths on how they can play an active role in Malaysia's social and economic activities.

It was organised by MyHarapan with the collaboration of the Higher Education Ministry and the Perfor-mance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu).

Mentoring the young: Najib speaking to youths during the Youth Action Forum 2013 at Putra World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur. Looking on is Wong (in black polo shirt).

Najib tells youths to be agents of change

Najib posing with some of the participants at the forum

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Youths should take the initiative to be the agent of change for the betterment of Malaysia, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

"Change is inevitable and critical. If you want something to change, the best thing is to step up and do it," he said at the Youth Action Forum 2013 on Monday.

He said that unlike before, today's youths are more aware and wish to participate in the policy-making process while contributing to society.

The Prime Minister also gave the assurance that the government remains committed in supporting the youth and their aspirations.

The forum serves as a platform to showcase the work and ideas of youths, on how they can play an active role in Malaysia's social and economic activities.

Najib urged all parties, including the private sector and government-linked companies, to throw their support behind the various programmes tailored for the youth.

Najib also met 20 selected youth leaders who received an exclusive mentoring session on their plans and ideas to improve the standard of living in the country.

(Source: The Star Online)

Allocation for Chinese and Tamil schools

KUALA LUMPUR: The Government will provide a special budget allocation for Chinese and Tamil schools beginning next year, said Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

Announcing this in his Thaipusam message at Batu Caves, he said this was part of the Government’s commitment to help better vernacular schools.

He pointed out that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak had earlier announced a RM100mil allocation for the development of SJKTs in Budget 2012 and 2013, while the Education Ministry had channelled management funds to Tamil schools in 2011 (RM584.38mil) and 2012 (RM660.35mil).

He said the Barisan Nasional government had launched many initiatives for the Indian community, including the MyDaftar programme.

(Source: The Star Online)

Men carry kavadi as act of devotion for answered prayers

Sea of people: Hindu devotees and visitors thronging the Batu Caves temple in Selangor.

 

Photo Gallery

BATU CAVES: When contractor C.R. Pusparajan fell into bad times over 15 years ago, he prayed to Lord Murugan for help.

When his fortunes turned around, a thankful Pusparajan made a promise he would carry the kavadi during Thaipusam.

“I used to have bad luck. I was unemployed, but I prayed, and give thanks to Lord Murugan, I am a towkay (business owner) now,” Pusparajan, 30, said.

He added that Lord Murugan had also turned him from a bad person into a good person, and he would continue to carry the kavadi as long as he could.

This is the 18th year that the contractor has carried the kavadi at the Batu Caves temple.

Thaipusam

(Source: The Star Online Read more of the story here.)

Thaipusam: Blessed ritual to fulfil vows

What is the significance of Thaipusam? This and other questions tweeted by readers over the last couple of days are answered by MIC secretary-general Datuk S. Murugesan (pic), who is well-versed in Hinduism as well as its customs and rituals. 

WHY is Batu Caves such an important gathering point?
Thaipusam is the religious festival for Lord Muruga and Batu Caves is the biggest Murugan Temple in Malaysia. It is also close to Kuala Lumpur.

> What's the significance of Batu Caves and how did that come about?
Batu Caves was promoted as a place of worship by K. Thamboosamy Pillai (a prominent leader of the Tamil community during the pre-independence days). He was inspired by the vel-shaped entrance of the main cave and dedicated a temple to Lord Murugan within the caves.

> Why would people want to hurt themselves by piercing? Is it a must?
Hurt or pain is not a must. However, devotees might have taken a vow that they will perform such and such a deed if their prayers are answered. They might incorporate an element of pain in the act of fulfilment.

> I thought Thaipusam was only a few weeks ago. How are these dates set annually?
That was not Thaipusam, it was the beginning of the Tamil month of Thai which fell on Jan 14 this year. Thaipusam is celebrated annually on the full moon in the month of Thai, which falls around the end of January or early February. All these dates are set out in the Hindu calendar, which varies from the English calendar. Thaipusam got its name as it falls on Pusam natchatiram (Hindu astrological star) in the month of Thai.

Najib to launch BR1M distribution

IPOH: FEBRUARY will be a much awaited month for more than  seven million households and single Malaysians.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak will kick-start the nationwide disbursement of RM500 to the those eligible for the 1Malaysia People's Aid (BR1M 2.0).

Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah said the launch by Najib, who mooted the aid programme to help low-income households, would put in motion the disbursement of the aid nationwide to eligible households and single folk.

Distribution of the aid would be carried out next month and would be completed by March.

Ahmad Husni said the aid would be distributed through district officers and zone development officers.

Under the BR1M 2.0 initiative, he said more than three million new applicants would also enjoy the cash aid.

"The launch (of the disbursement) is confirmed, but the official venue has yet to be confirmed," he said after launching the "Populate the library" programme in Tambun near here yesterday.

Ahamd Husni said so far, the Inland Revenue Board had processed six million BR1M 2.0 applications, both old and new, with 1.3 million still being processed by the board.

Najib: Top investors view country positively amid global gloom

A hero’s welcome: Thousands of well-wishers welcoming Najib home at KLIA. — Bernama

 

PUTRAJAYA: Top investors from around the world view Malaysia as a “bright spot” amidst global financial uncertainty, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

He said the country attracted overwhelming support at the recently concluded World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.

“The Malaysia Night we hosted there was met with an extraordinary reception.

“We had expected only 400 to attend, instead 1,000 influential people turned up.

“In a global climate of uncertainty, they said Malaysia is one of few countries that they consider to be a bright spot,” he said when addressing thousands of people who had turned up at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport to welcome him home yesterday.

The crowd had gathered at the Bunga Raya Complex as early as 9am to welcome Najib, his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor and the Malaysian delegation back from their tour of Gaza and the WEF.

Najib: Social media a double-edged sword

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has singled out social media as a double-edged sword for Barisan Nasional as the coalition prepares for the general election.

The Prime Minister and Barisan chairman said that with the advent of ICT, social media had turned into something that was “good” as well as a “bane”.

“(It) could be our Achilles heel as well,” he told anchor Fareed Zakaria in a CNN televised session at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

He acknowledged that voters nowadays had a higher level of expectations, were more educated and critical, and as such, the Government needed to do things differently.

“We need to realise people are not going to give their votes to you based on how much you have done in the past.

“No one can deny the fact that Umno and Barisan are the ones who fought for independence and developed the country but today people are saying that was in the past, we want to know what you can do for us in the future,” he said.

If he was re-elected as Prime Minister, Najib pledged that he would do “everything and anything possible” to make Malaysia a fully developed nation by 2020.

Najib: Malaysians' expectations, demand have increased

KUALA LUMPUR: People's expectations and demand of the government have increased, and this should be well understood to ensure Barisan Nasional's victory in the next general election, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said.

Najib, who is Barisan chairman, said having realised this, the government was determined to do things differently and work as hard as possible.

"We need to realise that people are not going to give their votes to you based on how much you've done in the past.
"But people would say, 'what can you do right now and for the future'," he told a CNN televised session entitled 'An Insight, An Idea with Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak' at the ongoing World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.

Najib noted that nobody could deny the fact that Umno and BN had pursued an agenda for development after fighting for the country's independence.

On Barisan's failure to win a two-thirds majority in the 2008 general election, Najib explained one of the factors was that people had become more critical in tandem with advances in technology and communication, as well as the use of social media.

At the end of the interview, the prime minister was queried about his plans if given the mandate to rule by voters in the country's 13th general election.

He responded by saying that the government had stated publicly that it wanted to see Malaysia become a fully developed nation by 2020.

"And I'm committed to do everything and anything possible to make it happen and if I get my second term, that's exactly what I'll do."

(Source: The Star Online)

Najib: Militant threat in Southeast Asia declining

Fareed poses a question to Najib during the interview

 

KUALA LUMPUR: The threat of Islamic militants in Southeast Asia has receded quite substantially due the efforts from other nations in the region, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said.

He said the cooperation between Malaysia and the other countries, including Indonesia and the Philippines, had helped to tackle Al-Qaeda-linked groups.

"I think most of them (the countries) are behind us. I think we've dealt with radical Islam," he told a CNN televised session entitled 'An Insight, An Idea with Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak' at the ongoing World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.

In the 30-minute interview which was anchored by Fareed Zakaria, the Prime Minister also pointed out Malaysia's involvement in hosting peace talks between the Philippine Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and its deployment of troops to head an international truce-monitoring force in the region.

Prime Minister’s Message on Thaipusam 2013

 

Malaysian Hindus marks the auspicious day of Thaipusam by offering prayers of thanksgiving and fulfilling their vows at temples across the country.

As you pray for a better life, I want all Malaysian Hindus to know that the Government is committed to continuing its efforts to uplift the Indian community. We will stand by you and work together towards overcoming the challenges you face and achieving the success you strive for. With continued ‘nambikei‘ or trust between the Government and the people, we will surely achieve all that we set out to do for the Indian community and indeed, for our country.

I take this opportunity to extend my greetings to all Hindus in Malaysia on the occasion of Thaipusam.

(Source: http://1malaysia.com.my)

Najib: Govt committed in efforts to uplift Indian community

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak wants all Malaysian Hindus to know that the government is committed in continuing its efforts to uplift the Indian community.

In his latest entry in the 1Malaysia Blog entitled Thaipusam 2013, Najib said the government will stand by all Malaysian Hindus and work together towards overcoming challenges that they faced and achieve the success.

Najib added that with continued 'nambikei' or trust between government and the people, everything set out by the government for the Indian community will surely be achieved.

"I take this opportunity to extend my greetings to all Hindus in Malaysia on the occasion of Thaipusam, tomorrow," he said. - Bernama

(Source: The Star Online See full message of PM here.)

Welcome Back PM!!!

Pro-growth policies, incentives boosted Malaysia’s recovery, Najib tells forum

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 25 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has emphasised that pro-growth policies coupled with incentives to push private sector are crucial ingredients that Malaysia successfully employed to help the nation recover from the regional and global economic downturn.

And over the past few years with the global economy in turmoil from the subprime credit and Eurozone debt crisis, Najib said that it was the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) that led to a remarkable jump in private investments and that was really the engine of growth,” Najib told a Al-Jazeera televised session entitled “The Economic Malaise and its Perils” at the ongoing World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.

“Things are looking up in Malaysia as the country has chalked up slow growth similar to other East Asian and Asian economies despite the global economic crisis and unlike Europe which has experienced decelerating growth,” he said as a panelist at the forum hosted by Al-Jazeera anchored by Kamahl Santamaria Friday.

Najib, who is also Finance Minister, said revitalising the private sector through the ETP unveiled in 2010 had created over 300,000 jobs and had brought down unemployment to 3.1 per cent which is regarded as full employment.

Najib shares economic success tips

DAVOS: MALAYSIA outlined its primary policy of managing growth while transforming its economy as an important step that has kept unemployment at a low three per cent, a level technically recognised as full employment.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who sat in a panel discussion on "Economic Malaise and its Perils" hosted by Al Jazeera's English network here yesterday, said the key to Malaysia's economic transformation was to get out of the middle-income trap.

He said coming out of the crippling 1997 Asian meltdown, Malaysia realised that while its economy was growing, it was growing slowly.

"We decided to put the private sector in the forefront of economic development and saw a sharp increase in private investment and in the process created more than 300,000 new jobs in a short space of three years."

The discussion started by examining problems faced by Europe and also the managed slowdown in China, and how these developments were affecting the job market.

The panellists agreed that creating big companies alone were not enough. The challenge, they said, was creating a society that is ready to meet every need that came with development.

Malaysia has ‘compelling story’ to tell leaders at economic forum

Warm greetings: Najib arriving in Davos for a four-day working visit to the World Economic Forum. — Bernama

 

DAVOS: Malaysia has “a compelling story to tell” to promote the nation as an attractive investment and tourism destination at the World Economic Forum.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who is on a four-day working visit to the World Economic Forum, said Malaysia’s “compelling story” would be told via meetings, events and the media in the next few days.

He said advertisements had been placed in the Economist and CNN as part of the campaign to promote the country as an investment and tourism destination.

With the tagline “Endless Possibilities”, the advertisements together with an advertorial in the Economist highlights the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) and the Government Transforma-tion Programme (GTP).

Najib would also be highlighting how the ETP and the cross-cutting reforms of the New Economic Model (NEM) have gradually changed the economic landscape of the country in the past several years.

Malaysia to see RM5.5bil worth of investments

DAVOS: Several multinational companies have agreed in principle to invest a total of RM5.5bil over several years, mostly up and down the value chain of Malaysia's resurgent oil and gas (O&G) industry.

While the investment figure was just a ballpark figure, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said during meetings held on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, which began here Thursday, heads and senior management of these multinational companies expressed interest in investing in the country.

"I met with Itochu Corp, which has expressed an interest in partnering Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) to further develop the petrochemical industry in the Refinery & Petrochemical Integrated Development (Rapid) project in Pengerang," he said.

Najib said the talks were coming to fruition and this would positively impact the development of the RM60bil Rapid project.

He said besides this project, Itochu has also expressed an interest in setting up an integrated seamless pipe factory for the O&G industry.

Meanwhile, Najib said the Hanwha Group, a South Korean industrial group, has expressed interest in several investments, including taking over Thalheim, Germany-based Q-Cells SE's Malaysian operations.

Najib's second day at WEF starts with televised session with Al-Jazeera

DAVOS, Switzerland: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak will begin his second day working visit to the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2013 with a televised session from Al-Jazeera.

The interactive session will discuss the economic malaise and its perils.

The WEF Annual Meeting is a much-anticipated economic forum, bringing together influential Leaders from the realm of politics, business and civil society to discuss a wide range of global issues.

This year's event themed "resilient dynamism", is a platform to showcase Malaysia's vibrant economic growth and lucrative investment opportunities against the backdrop of the global economic uncertainties in recent years.

Najib will also call on the President of the Swiss Confederation, Ueli Maurer, before hosting a luncheon meeting which will focus on Malaysia's natural endowment as a level for transformation and to promote Malaysia as one of the prime investment destinations. -- BERNAMA

(Source: http://www.nst.com.my)

Najib strengthens ties with Egypt and Palestinians

CAIRO: Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's three-day working visit to Egypt, including a one-day humanitarian visit to Gaza, beginning last Monday is like killing two birds with a stone, strengthening ties with Egypt as well as the Palestinians.

Firstly, through this visit he had established a foundation or a framework with Egpyt, led by President Mohamed Morsi, the first president to be elected through the democratic process after the Arab Spring, sparked by prolonged protests by Egyptians at the Tahrir Square, last year. 

 

Through this visit, Najib also managed to explore potential investment and business opportunities for Malaysian companies to participate in Egypt's post Arab-Spring economic development. 

 

His Egyptian counterpart, Prime Minister Dr Hesham Mohamed Qandil has expressed his country's interest to colloborate with Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) through Egypt Petroleum Company to bid for petroleum exploration projects in the African continent. 

 

Egypt would also like to have a joint venture through one of its government-linked companies (GLCs) with Proton to assemble cars in the Land of the Pharaohs.  

 

Najib told Malaysian newsmen at his press conference here, before departing to Davos, Switzerland to attend the World Economic Forum, that this was the opportune time for Malaysian companies to penetrate the Egyptian market because the country was in the process of restructuring its economic development.  

Najib sees WEF as golden opportunity to promote Malaysia

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak shows an article titled "Investing in Asia through Malaysia" published in 'The Economist', that was distributed during the World Economic Forum 2013 in Davos. -- Bernama photo

DAVOS (Switzerland): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak sees the four-day World Economic Forum (WEF) as a golden opportunity to promote Malaysia as an investment, trade and tourism destination.

“I'm taking part in this year's WEF to realise several objectives, the main one being to promote Malaysia,” he told Malaysian journalists here today.

Najib, in his first visit to the annual event as Prime Minister, was personally invited by WEF founder Prof Klaus Schwab.

Najib said the prestigious forum, which brings together world political and business leaders and which this year has drawn some 3,000 participants, is an opportunity not to be missed.

He will have bilateral meetings with several world leaders, including with Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Pascal Lamy, Canada's Minister of Finance James M. Flaherty and Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte.

Najib: Moderation must prevail to build progressive nation

KUALA LUMPUR: The concept of "wasatiyyah" or moderation as taught by Prophet Muhammad should prevail to ensure that the mission of building a progressive and competitive nation is achieved, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

In his message in conjunction with Prophet Muhammad's birthday celebration Thursday, Najib said the Prophet was a role model who practised moderation in his life and the concept had brought about unity and solidarity of Muslims throughout the world.

"Moderation as practised by the Prophet has resulted in creating the momentum to drive the development of each race and country in the world.

"Therefore, this momentum needs to continue to ensure our mission to build a progressive and competitive country is achieved," he said in his personal blog Wednesday.

Najib said Malaysia's ability to strengthen relations between the West and Islamic world was highlighted by former Asean secretary-general Dr Surin Pitsuwan as a successful model of the moderate approach, as practised by the Malaysian government in handling various issues and conflicts in the region.

He said the practice of moderation in Malaysia had become the best example to Islamic countries in resolving regional issues, including Malaysia's success as mediator in the southern Philippine conflict, which proved that it was not only respected among Islamic countries but also among western countries.

Perutusan YAB Perdana Menteri Sempena Sambutan Maulidur Rasul 1434H

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim,
Assalamu ‘alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh,
Salam Sejahtera dan Salam 1 Malaysia,
Saudara dan Saudari sekalian,

Sesungguhnya kelahiran baginda Rasulullah SAW merupakan satu detik istimewa yang amat bermakna buat umat Islam di seluruh dunia. Maka pada 12 Rabiulawal 1434 Hijriah bersamaan dengan 24 Januari 2013 Masehi, sekali lagi kita meraikan sambutan yang penuh barakah ini di negara kita.

Rasulullah SAW merupakan pemimpin terunggul ummah yang begitu menyayangi umatnya dengan meninggalkan Al-Quran dan As Sunnah sebagai petunjuk kehidupan manusia sepanjang zaman. Sebagaimana firman Allah di dalam surah Al-Maidah ayat 15 yang bermaksud :

“Sesungguhnya telah datang kepada kamu cahaya kebenaran (Nabi Muhammad) dari Allah dan sebuah Kitab (Al-Quran) yang jelas nyata keterangannya.”

Rasulullah SAW adalah qudwah yang mengamalkan wasatiyyah dalam hidupnya. Bertepatan dengan tema sambutan Maulidur Rasul kali ini iaitu “Wasatiyyah Tonggak Kesatuan Ummah”, kita melihat konsep wasatiyyah yang baginda tunjukkan telah melahirkan kesatuan dan perpaduan umat Islam di seluruh dunia. Kesederhanaan yang diamalkan oleh baginda telah membawa kepada momentum dalam memacu kemajuan setiap bangsa dan negara di dunia ini.

Justeru, momentum ini perlu diteruskan untuk memastikan misi kita untuk membina negara maju dan berdaya saing mampu untuk dicapai. Sememangnya keyakinan mengenai kemampuan Malaysia dalam merapatkan hubungan antara barat dan Islam sepertimana yang diutarakan oleh bekas Setiausaha Agung Sekretariat ASEAN (Dr. Surin Pitsuwan) adalah contoh kejayaan pendekatan wasatiyyah yang diamalkan oleh Kerajaan Malaysia dalam menangani pelbagai isu dan konflik di rantau ini. Kita yakin amalan kesederhanaan yang diamalkan Malaysia menjadi contoh terbaik kepada negara Islam lain bagi menyelesaikan isu serantau. Kejayaan negara sebagai mediator dalam krisis selatan Filipina membuktikan Malaysia dihormati bukan saja dalam kalangan negara Islam, bahkan negara Barat.

Netizens keenly following Najib’s Gaza updates

PETALING JAYA: The Prime Minister’s updates and photos from his visit to Gaza are keenly followed by Netizens.

As of 7pm yesterday, there were more than 1.3 million “Likes” with almost 2,000 comments posted on his Facebook account.

A common theme was that they believed Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak showed strong leadership in undertaking the visit.

Jas Shinder said “Bringing peace is a noble thing to do” while Su Haw Tan posted: “Brave Leader, M’sia is proud of UUUUU.”

The PM is one of the few political leaders in the world to have a following of over one million in both Facebook and Twitter. He also engaged directly with the Chinese community through his Ah Jib Gor page.

‘Najib’s move to mend Hamas-Fatah ties a historic moment’

The Prime Minister’s wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor talking to one of the children at An-Nasseer Hospital in Gaza. Her visit was in conjunction with Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s trip to Gaza. — Bernama

 

PETALING JAYA: Several non-governmental organisations involved in the Palestinian cause praised Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on his efforts to help mend ties between the Palestinian factions, Hamas and Fatah.

Sekretariat Dana Hospital 4 Gaza's chief operating officer Mohd Nazri Sahat said it was a historic moment, not only for the country, but also for local NGOs that had been helping the Palestinians over the years.

“We definitely support the Prime Minister in getting Malaysia to play a role in the reconciliation talks between Hamas and Fatah,” he said here yesterday.

He said Najib's historic visit to Gaza also bore special significance for the secretariat, which comes under the Islamic Associations Consultative Council (Mapim).

Najib feels for people of Palestine in more ways than one

CAIRO: The Palestinian cause is close to Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s heart through a personal connection – two foster children.

The Prime Minister had adopted the two Palestinian children by way of sponsorship via a Malaysian charity organisation when he was the Education Minister, and later Defence Minister.

“It is one of the reasons why the issue is close to my heart and why visiting Palestine has been something I have always wanted to do,” he said, adding that the children were from the West Bank.

“I used to send money to them every month.”

Najib said he sponsored the children through the Malaysian Social Research Insitute (MSRI), founded by the late Dr Elijah Gordon – a renowned activist for the Palestinian cause.

Asked whether he still kept in touch with the two children, Najib said he had lost touch with them after Gordon’s death.

He suggested that such adoption programmes be revived so that others could also foster Palestinian children.

PM IN GAZA: Najib's groundbreaking visit

CAIRO: PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said his ground-breaking visit to Gaza on Tuesday was humanitarian in nature and should not be misconstrued as an interference into the domestic affairs of Palestine.

Najib said he would have visited the Fatah-ruled West Bank if not for the constraints placed by Israel's air control over the Palestinian Territories.

"It was my every intention to also visit Ramallah (de facto capital of the Palestinian Authority) but since I have to fly to get there and the sky is controlled by Israel, I could not make the trip," he said at the end of his three-day visit to Gaza and Egypt.

For Israel to give permission to fly into Ramallah would have meant that Malaysia would have to recognise Tel Aviv.

Najib was asked to comment on reports that his visit to the Hamas-controlled Gaza on Tuesday -- the first by a Malaysian prime minister -- had drawn reactions from the office of Palestinian Authority chairman Mahmoud Abbas.

Seven million households, individuals apply for BR1M 2.0

SUNGAI PETANI: Some seven million households and unmarried individuals have applied for the 1Malaysia People's Aid (BR1M) 2.0 which will be paid out next month.

Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah said 4.1 million of the applicants were households which had received the BR1M last year. The the rest were fresh applicants comprising about 1.7 million single unmarried individuals as well as households which had just applied. "We have brought forward to this year the 4.1 million BR1M recipients of last year (without them having to register again).

"We anticipate more than six million BR1M 2.0 recipients.

"The Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) has to verify all the fresh applicants prior to payment," he told reporters after opening the Menara Hasil Sungai Petani building in Bandar Amanjaya, here.

Ahmad Husni said the payment would be made from Feb 1 to 28, and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak would officially launch the payment on Feb 2.

Abdul Ghani: Important for Indian community to support ruling party

Traditi onal ceremony: Abdul Ghani lighting a lamp during the special dinner organised by MIC Johor with the Indian community at the Dewan Raya Bandar Putra in Kulai.

 

JOHOR BARU: There will be many plans to further develop the Indian community and create inclusive policies that will help the community in future.

Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman said that it was important for the Indian community to continue supporting the ruling Government as many problems faced by them are slowly being solved.

“So far the Government has helped in the development of Hindu temples, Tamil schools and more job opportunities for the Indian community especially in Governmental organisations,” he said.

He was speaking during a special dinner with the Indian community held at the Dewan Raya Bandar Putra in Kulai here recently.

The dinner which was attended by more than 3,000 people was also attended by MIC deputy president Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam, Johor state MIC chairman Datuk K.S. Balakrishnan and other state representatives and officials.

Kelantan flood victims appreciate assistance

Kota Baharu: “My family and I are thankful to be able to move out in time to this flood relief centre,” said Shamsiah Saufi, 41, a resident of Kampung Tasik, here, whose home was submerged by the floods last month.

Shamsiah, her husband and 10 children were relocated to the Sekolah Kebangsaan Banggu flood relief centre here, together with other residents in the village when the flood water rose to waist level, the worst ever flood to hit the village.

“It humbles me to receive this assistance as everything is provided to meet our needs,” she added.

She is one of the almost 7,000 residents who were evacuated because of the floods in the Kelantan, through a planned evacuation operation involving the Fire and Rescue Department, Civil Defence Department, the armed forces and the police.

The natural disaster, which occurred during the monsoon season between November and March, has a huge impact on the lives of the affected residents, especially when their property and crops were also damaged.

Najib: Gaza visit a show of support to Palestine

PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Najib Razak yesterday said he was following his heart to visit Gaza and be with the Palestinian people.

"There is no better way ... It is the best way to set foot on Gaza to show our support to the Palestinian people," he said in his speech at a meeting with Palestinian cabinet ministers here Tuesday.

Najib who is on a one day humanitarian visit to Gaza was accompanied by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom.

The Prime Minister said Malaysians can send humanitarian and financial aid to the Palestinians but considered his visit as a very strong symbol of an undying support for Palestine.

"I hope more and more Muslim leaders from all over the world would do the same. This struggle is not only for Palestinians but also for the Ummah," he said.

Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh said in his speech at the meeting that Najib's visit to Gaza was the first ever by a non-Arab Prime Minister.

Meanwhile, in his Twitter account @NajibRazak, Najib described his humanitarian visit to Gaza as smooth, safe and successful.

"I visited Gaza and was received by Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh. I also visited the site of a school that would be build by Malaysia. Thank GOD, my 'business' in Gaza was smooth and successful," he said.

Najib also added a picture of him and Ismail together in his Facebook page.

In DAVOS (Switzerland), Najib's tweets were the most re-tweeted (RT) for about five hours, beginning 10am.

The position was shown on the big screen at Kongress Zentrum Building where the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2013 will be held for five days, beginning today.

Najib, who is also Malaysia's Finance Minister, was at the far front, followed by authors Sant Jordi Asociados and Paolo Coelho, Italy Prime Minister Mario Monti, columnist, The New York Times, USA, Nicholas D. Kristof and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Right Start Foundation International, Amr Khaled who are all participants of the forum.

Their twitter activities are being monitored by WEF.

The active retweets by Najib's followers are believed to be linked to the prime minister while he was in Gaza, Palestine.

Najib said that he was following his heart to visit Gaza and be with the Palestinian people.

The prime minister is scheduled to arrive in Davos City, an extreme contrast in weather from Gaza, on Jan 24. — Bernama

(Source: The Malay Mail)

Hectic timetable in store for Najib at Davos

Najib (left) has meetings with over 10 heads of states scheduled in Davos. — Reuters pic

DAVOS, Jan 23 — Despite freezing temperatures, Datuk Seri Najib Razak will be kept warm at the ski resort here given the tight schedule throughout his participation at this year’s prestigious World Economic Forum (WEF) beginning Wednesday.

Najib, who will be attending the four-day WEF as prime minister for the first time, has more than 10 courtesy calls on foreign leaders, one-on-one meetings with business chieftains, as well as bilateral meetings lined up.

Malaysian Ambassador to Switzerland Datuk Ho May Yong, said the prime minister was invited by WEF executive chairman Prof Klaus Schwab to attend the forum to share Malaysia’s transformation progress.

“The prime minister decided to accept the invitation,” she told Malaysian journalists covering the event late yesterday at the resort in below freezing temperatures, cold winds and foggy conditions.

The WEF annual meeting is a much-anticipated forum that brings together influential leaders from the realm of politics, business and civil society to discuss a wide range of global issues.

Visit hailed as a testimony of commitment to Palestine

PETALING JAYA: Both politicians and non-governmental organisations have described Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s historical visit to Gaza as a testimony of Malay- sia’s commitment to the Palestinian cause.

In congratulating the Prime Minister for being the country’s first head of government to make such a trip, they said Najib’s visit proved that Malaysia and its people were sincere in extending a helping hand to Palestine.

Perdana Global Peace Organisation adviser Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir said Najib’s visit provided a huge morale boost for Palestinians trying to get recognition from the international community.

“The visit shows that we (Malaysia) put our money where our mouth is and not just provide lip service. Here, we have a head of government visiting a place that was a target of severe bombardment until recently,” he said, likening this to the one made by his father, former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Moham­mad, to Sarajevo during the Bosnian war in the 1990s.

Kota Belud MP Datuk Abdul Rahman Dahlan said Najib’s visit to Gaza renewed Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to Palestine and demonstrated that foreign relations were as important as domestic concerns.

“I join fellow Sabahans in expressing our support to the Prime Minister to play a bigger role in international peace process initiatives, such as Palestine-Israel and in the southern Thailand region,” he said.

Big support for a just cause

Malaysia strongly supports the Palestinian people's bid for freedom from Israeli occupation and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak took the opportunity to make a historic humanitarian working trip to the Gaza Strip.

Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak travelled by land from the El-Arish airport near the Egyptian border to Gaza City in Palestine in a historic humanitarian working visit there yesterday.

The land crossing allowed the Prime Minister to see for himself the effects of an Israeli attack on the city in November.

During his nearly two-hour car trip, Najib would have also gained a rare glimpse of the hardship that the 1.7 million residents of the Gaza Strip have had to endure in their struggle for liberation.

Just half the size of Perlis but with a population that is eight times larger, the 369 sq km Gaza Strip, along with the West Bank which borders Jordan, make up the Palestinian occupied territories whose cause Malaysia has long championed.

Malaysia supports Fatah-Hamas reconciliation

Friend in need: Najib and Rosmah accompanied by Haniyeh (left) being introduced to Hamas Cabinet ministers in Gaza. — Bernama

 

GAZA CITY: Malaysia has offered to help unite rival Palestinian groups Fatah and Hamas.

The first Malaysian Prime Minister to visit Palestine, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak expressed support for a reconciliation plan to end the division between the two Palestinian movements.

“A unity government is within reach,” the Prime Minister said after being conferred a honorary doctorate by the al-Aqsa University in East Jerusalem yesterday.

He said that peace and prosperity could only be achieved through unity, a belief strengthened by Malaysia's success in facilitating talks in the southern Philippine to end four decades of conflict that had killed over 120,000 people.

“Should it be needed, we stand ready to offer you the benefit of that experience. Malaysia, always a friend of the Palestine people, is willing to help facilitate the reconciliation plan in whichever way we can,” he said.

A split between the two groups in 2007 led to the West Bank being governed by Fatah and the Gaza Strip by Hamas. The two sides signed a reconciliation plan sponsored by Egypt in May last year.

Najib, who was in Gaza on a humanitarian visit, said his commitment to a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian issue was clear.

“We wish to see an independent, unified Palestine, enjoying the peace and security which all the world's peoples deserve.”

Gaza: Najib given red carpet welcome

From the moment Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak crossed the Rafah border into Gaza from Egypt, something in the weather foretold that it was going to be an extra special visit.

Najib was given a red carpet welcome, complete with a  military band playing the Malaysian and the Palestinian  anthems.

After inspecting the guard of honour, Najib accompanied  by Palestinian Prime Minister in Gaza, Ismail Haniyeh addressed an open air packed press conference outside the  immigration building.

What came after the prelude was something unexpected.

The Hamas host took Najib and his delegation on a fast  tracked tour of destruction sites in Gaza.

A formula one driver would be proud as the convoy which  carried both prime ministers passed through narrow and  dusty lanes at breakneck speed.

Along the way, the programme book was thrown out of the  window.

Najib was taken .to several places that were not in the  original itinerary, mostly he saw first hand the destruction of  houses, a stadium and mosque.

The weather was getting warmer and the host was  adamant that the Malaysian leader and his delegation would  see for themselves the naked aggression that the Israeli  brought upon the hapless Palestinian people.

Najib is first Malaysian PM to visit Gaza

GAZA CITY, Palestine: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak became the first Malaysian Prime Minister to set foot on the Palestinian soil when he entered the Gaza Strip this morning to begin a one-day humanitarian visit.

He is also the only the second head of government or state to visit Gaza  since Hamas took control of the tiny enclave more than five years ago.

 

The Prime Minister who flew into Cairo yesterday, crossed the Gaza Strip from Egypt at the border crossing of Rafah. 

 

Najib was accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom. He was welcomed by Hamas officials at the Gaza side of border crossing led by Palestine Prime Minister in Gaza, Ismail Haniyeh.

 

The Prime Minister will be taken around the small Palestinian territory - half the size of Perlis but eight time its population - by Haniyeh. He will lay the foundation stone of the new Palestinian Prime Minister's office after the old one was destroyed in an Israeli bombing last November.

 

Najib will be meeting wth Haniyeh's cabinet member and members of Parliament.

Najib: First Chinese varsity campus abroad to be in Salak Tinggi

 

What an honour: Najib witnessing Mohamed Khaled handing over the invitation to the opening of the overseas campus to Zhu (left) at the Bunga Raya Complex of KLIA. Also present at the ceremony was Ong (extreme right). — Bernama

 

SEPANG: The first ever Chinese university overseas campus is to be opened in Malaysia.

The Xiamen university campus will be built on a 61ha site in Salak Tinggi near here and is due to start operating in September 2015, said Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

Excellent Students Should Be Given Due Recognition - Najib

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 18 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak today said all students who scored excellent results in the Penilaian Menengah Rendah (PMR) examination should be given due recognition and financial aid to pursue their studies.

"Excellent students should be given due recognition no matter where they are. @barisannasional gives incentive to 2,000 students who excelled in PMR examination in Penang," he said in his latest Twitter tweet today.

Penang BN will give cash incentive totalling RM475,200 to 2,376 students in the state who excelled in the 2012 PMR examination starting this Saturday.

According to Penang PMR Incentive Programme chairman, Koh Wan Leong, the cash incentive was aimed at encuraging the students to maintain their excellence performance in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination.

The presentation ceremony of the incentive is scheduled to be held from Jan 19 to 31 in selected locations.

Najib delighted at rousing turnout at Indian Progressive Front gathering

People stretching their hands out to welcome Najib at the IPF celebration in Semenyih on Saturday.

 

SEMENYIH: More than 15,000 members of the Indian Progressive Front (IPF) and Barisan Nasional (BN) component parties flooded Dataran Tesco in Bandar Rincang, Semenyih to show support and recognition for the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

The presence of the country's number one leader in this quiet town brought thousands of visitors flooding into Semenyih.

Najib, who attended the "Selangor IPF Gathering with the Prime Minister" at 10am, was delighted with the rousing reception by Barisan supporters and people from the surrounding areas who waved the national flag to welcome him.

The crowd which started to gather as early as 8am turned the venue into a sea of Barisan T-shirts featuring the Prime Minister's picture.

Applause and shouts of "Hidup PM", Hidup Najib" "1 Malaysia" and "Ore Malaysia" continued for a good 10 minutes as the Prime Minister and component party leaders went up the stage accompanied by traditional Indian music.

Supporters and residents also took the opportunity to have a good view of Najib who was seen beaming as he shook hands with the crowd in Semenyih.

In his speech, Najib said: "Satu Malaysia, Ore Malaysia (1Malaysia in Tamil). I am very honoured and impressed with the strong support by IPF," he said. - Bernama

(Source: The Star Online)

Visit Malaysia Year 2014 Is A National Mission, Says Najib

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 19 : Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said, the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 must be turned into a national mission involving all parties, including the people, in order to achieve the target of receiving 28 visitors for the year.

The Prime Minister said the government project not only involved the Ministry of Tourism but every ministry, agency and state government, to ensure its success.

“All of us have a role to play to make Visit Malaysia Year 2014 a success. From the entry point, Immigration officers who stamp the tourists, passports, Customs officers, taxi drivers, hotel staff, business people, tour operators and the Malaysian people.

“We must show our warm welcome. We must give them the feeling that if they visit Malaysia, they will be treated with warmth and courtesy from all of us.

“So we not only need the physical infrastructure but soft infrastructure as well, which is, Malaysians who are always cheerful, courteous and helpful so that visitors experience a truly memorable time here. This is the meaningful impact we want,” he said while launching the Visit Malaysia Year 2014 campaign, here Saturday night.

Also present were the Prime Minister’s wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen, Information Communication and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim and wife Datin Seri Masnah Rais and Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein and his wife.

Najib said Malaysia has its own unique features which are not found elsewhere, among them its fauna and flora, among the best ecosystem in the world, cosmopolitan cities, fourth best location in the world for shopping and more.

“Malay, Chinese, Indian, Iban, Kadazan, Orang Asli and other cultures can all be experienced here. These are Malaysia’s selling-points, which other countries cannot compete with. “Furthermore, the peace and stability here makes our country very attractive as a travel destination,” he said.

He also said the government would continue encouraging the tourism industry which is targeting 36 million visitors by 2020.

Najib promises seven projects if Barisan retakes state from PAS

KOTA BARU: A highway, a spanking new stadium and an end to the people's water woes.

The people of Kelantan can expect all these and more should the Barisan Nasional retake the state from PAS in the next general election, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said.

The Prime Minister announced at a Janji Ditepati (Promises Fulfilled) programme here yesterday that the Barisan would undertake seven major projects if it forms the next state government in Kelantan.

Najib pledged that Barisan would build a highway linking Kuala Krai and Kota Baru, build a spanking new stadium and resolve the people's water woes if it is given the mandate to rule the state.

Barisan will also build 3,000 houses under its people-friendly housing scheme, set up a Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) campus for 5,000 students, start a Rapid Kota Baru bus service and build a RM50mil mosque that will be the biggest in Kelantan.

“This is only part of our manifesto. It is not yet complete. There will be other things to be announced later. This is Barisan's promise,” he said, adding that the people of Kelantan had tremendous potential and Barisan could provide the catalyst for them to excel through systematic development.

Najib visits Siti Khadijah market in bid to woo traders

KOTA BAHARU, Jan 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s visit to the Siti Khadijah Market, here, has boosted the spirit of 2,500 traders to pick Barisan Nasional (BN) in the 13th general election.

Generally, the traders regarded his effort to meet them face-to-face for the first time at the market as a very meaningful and historical occasion.

Najib spent 45 minutes meeting the traders on the first and second floors at the market from 9.15am in conjunction with his one-day working visit to the state today.

International Trade and Industry minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed, Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen and Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Dr Awang Adek Hussin also accompanied him.

Najib then had breakfast of ‘nasi dagang’ with tuna, boiled egg in a traditional gravy dish and traditional cakes at Paksu Cafe at the Siti Khadijah Market Square.

Education should not be politicised, says Najib

TUMPAT: DATUK Seri Najib Razak reminded all parties that  education is  too important and valuable  to be politicised.

He said the Federal Government had never politicised the sector despite Kelantan being under an opposition party for more than 20 years.

"We may have differences of opinion and political squabbles but the education sector is too important, too valuable, for anybody to make it a political pawn.

"That is why I give a guarantee that the Federal Government will continue to give attention to education in the state.

"Whatever is given to other states, we will always give consideration to Kelantan," he said at the presentation of early schooling aid at SK Seri Wakaf Baharu here yesterday.

The prime minister said the Federal Government, through the national education system, wanted to produce a generation of pious and knowledgeable students.

"Transformations are not based on slogans. If the slogan is Developing With Islam but educational programmes are not held, then it will not become a reality.