PETALING JAYA: Small and medium enterprise (SME)
sector leaders have lauded the Government’s move to redefine the SME’s
criteria in terms of annual turnover and workforce.
Branding Association of Malaysia president Datuk Eric Chong applauded the move, saying that SME classifications needed to be timely.
“The current definition is outdated and has not factored in gross
domestic product (GDP) growth and inflation at the same time,” he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak was quoted by Bernama
as saying that the new criteria for SMEs in the manufacturing sector
had been changed to companies with an annual turnover of less than
RM50mil with worker numbers not exceeding 200 from the current criteria
of less than RM25mil in revenue and less than 150 workers.
The value threshold for the services sector has also been raised,
with SMEs being defined as firms with annual sales not exceeding RM20mil
or not more than 75 workers. At present, they are defined as having
less than RM5mil in annual sales or less than 50 employees.
Najib, who chaired the 14th National SME Development Council
comprising 16 ministries and agencies at Putrajaya yesterday, also
added that apart from the various programmes and funding, a National SME
Advisory Panel would be formed to gather inputs and formulate
strategies to create world-class Malaysian SMEs.
Wednesday 24 July 2013
PM Najib congratulates royal couple
PETALING JAYA - The Prime Minister has congratulated Prince William and his wife Catherine on the birth of their son.
"I wish the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and their new baby, every happiness," Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak wrote in his Twitter account, @NajibRazak.
The Prime Minister said he had the pleasure of meeting the royal couple during their Malaysian tour.
The Royals travelled to Malaysia last year as part of their tour to several countries in conjunction with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
It was an extra special day for Najib yesterday, who took time off his schedule to mark his 60th birthday by distributing the Kam-pung Baru Masjid Jamek's bubur lambuk (rice porridge) to locals in the capital.
Najib, who arrived earlier to perform the mid-afternoon prayers at the mosque, spent some time mingling with the crowd before distributing the porridge, a traditional breaking of fast delicacy amongst local Muslims during Ramadan.
Mosque chairman Datuk Idris Shaari Mat Aris said that it was a pleasant surprise to have Najib distribute the porridge to fellow fasting Muslims on his birthday despite his busy schedule.
"He called to find out when the porridge would be ready to be distributed and it was a coincidence that it fell on his birthday," he told reporters here yesterday.
He said Najib first started distributing the porridge here about seven years ago and it has since become an annual affair during Ramadan.
"Najib has a special affinity for our mosque as his mother was once actively involved with the community as she was in charge of women's affairs here," he said.
(Source: http://www.asiaone.com)
I too was young once, I too wanted to change the world - Najib
KUALA LUMPUR - Under fire from all sides, Prime Minister Najib Razak is going through one of his toughest periods after leading his BN coalition to its weakest ever performance in a general election.
And if some of his party colleagues have called it right, his position as the Umno president is not only on the line but may be decided by some 18,000 voters at Kuala Besut where a 'critical by-election' is due to be balloted on July 24.
If the Umno candidate loses, party hardliners such as former premier Mahathir Mohamad are expected to seize on the result to push for his ouster at the Umno presidential election slated for September.
The 60-year-old Najib is not at all unaware of all the undercurrents waiting to drag him down. PAS leaders believe he has already sunk some RM377mil on the Kuala Besut "buy-election" to ensure Umno wins.
With so much at stake, it comes as no surprise that Najib will fight tooth and nail to keep his presidency and Kuala Besut is only a minor hurdle in his scheme of things. Ahead of him lurk many more traps, even larger and more dangerous than the Terengganu by-election.
(Source: http://www.malaysia-chronicle.com)
50 more 1Malaysia clinics
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak announced that
40 to 50 more 1Malaysia Clinics (K1M) will be opened nationwide
beginning next year.
K1M is one of the initiatives under the 1Malaysia concept mooted by the prime minister, which focuses on racial harmony, national integration and efficient administration.
There are more than 200 K1M nationwide now, serving about 1.5 million people. The fee is RM1 for Malaysians and RM15 for foreigners. Bernama
(Source: http://www.nst.com.my)
Courteous Taxi Drivers Will Lure More Tourists To Visit Malaysia - Najib
KUALA LUMPUR, July 18 (Bernama) - Taxi drivers who are courteous and
disciplined can become significant contributors to the tourism industry
and will lure more foreign tourists to visit Malaysia.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said this is in line with the government objective to ensure that the public and tourists enjoy a world class taxi service.
"Excellent taxi service is not only because of the 'beautiful' vehicles. The drivers also need to be 'beautiful' in terms of behaviour and character.
"When carrying passengers, smile and become courteous taxi drivers. Say thank you after getting paid. These are the ingredients of good taxi drivers," he said in his speech at 'Majlis Janji Ditepati - Pemberian Lesen Teksi Individu' here, Thursday.
Also present is the chairman of the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD), Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said this is in line with the government objective to ensure that the public and tourists enjoy a world class taxi service.
"Excellent taxi service is not only because of the 'beautiful' vehicles. The drivers also need to be 'beautiful' in terms of behaviour and character.
"When carrying passengers, smile and become courteous taxi drivers. Say thank you after getting paid. These are the ingredients of good taxi drivers," he said in his speech at 'Majlis Janji Ditepati - Pemberian Lesen Teksi Individu' here, Thursday.
Also present is the chairman of the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD), Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar.
Friday 19 July 2013
Najib fulfils pledge to taxi drivers
BETTER IMAGE: 1,000 individual taxi permit holders get RM5,000 each to buy Proton Exora taxis.
He said the aid would be channelled through Yayasan Rakyat 1Malaysia soon.
"This is one more of the promises fulfilled by the government to ensure that taxi drivers can use a suitable vehicle for the convenience and comfort of passengers," Najib said before distributing individual taxi permits to 500 taxi drivers at the Land Public Transport Commission's (SPAD) headquarters at KL Sentral here.
He said those who received the individual permits were obliged to buy the vehicle for use as their taxis, in the effort to boost the image of the nation's taxi service industry.
The grant will include the price of the car, which excludes Customs duties and sales tax.
A down payment is also not required of the taxi drivers.
SPAD hints at taxi fare increase
KUALA LUMPUR: The Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) is reviewing taxi fares and has indicated a possible increase in the near future.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said SPAD was studying the costs incurred by taxi drivers.
“I understand that SPAD is currently reviewing the taxi fares, taking into account the operational costs (of taxi drivers),” he said to the loud cheers of over 500 cabbies at the SPAD headquarters in KL Sentral here yesterday.
SPAD, he added, was also looking into an “accreditation programme” which would become a future requirement for cabbies to enable better taxi services.
Najib said this in his speech before presenting 500 Taxi 1Malaysia (Teks1m) individual licences to the cabbies. They were part of a group of 1,000 drivers chosen out of 19,117 Teks1m applicants earlier this year.
Later at a press conference, SPAD chairman Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar said the fare review was almost at its final stage although he declined to comment on what kind of increase would be involved.
Najib: Taxi fares being reviewed
 |
| Najib posing with several taxi drivers after presenting 500 Taxi 1Malaysia (Teks1m) individual licences to the cabbies. With him is Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar (third from right). |
This was revealed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who said the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) was studying costs incurred by taxi drivers.
"I understand that SPAD is currently reviewing the taxi fares, taking into account operational costs (of taxi drivers)," he said to the loud cheers of over 500 cabbies present.
Najib was at SPAD headquarters at KL Sentral to present 500 Taxi 1Malaysia (Teks1m) individual licences to the cabbies.
In a press conference later, SPAD chairman Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar said the fare review was almost at its final stages but he declined to comment on what kind of increase would be involved.
He said, however, that SPAD hoped to present the review before the Government by the end of the year.
SPAD CEO Mohd Nur Ismal Kamal said the commission would also get public feedback on the fare review before it was presented to the Government.
The current flag-off rate for Malaysian taxis is RM3, with RM0.10 charged at every subsequent 100m. The last review change was in 2009.
(Source: The Star Online)
Bonus for civil servants being studied: PM
Putra Jaya: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the
government will study the payment of a bonus for civil servants for the
Hari Raya Aidilfitri to be celebrated soon.
"We will look into it, there is still time," he said at a media conference at the special meeting room in his office, here, shortly after witnessing the signing of an agreement between the North Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) and four companies that had agreed to invest RM1.96 billion in the states in the Northern Corridor of Malaysia.
He said this when referring to the possibility that there would be good news for the 1.4 million civil servants following the request by Cuepacs which was still hopeful that the government would pay a half-month bonus to public servants although they would be receiving their annual increment this month.
The Cuepacs statement cropped up a day after Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa said the government had yet to discuss the bonus payment, and the announcement on the Annual Salary Increment (KGT) twice this year could be considered as a bonus. - Bernama
(Source: Daily Express)
"We will look into it, there is still time," he said at a media conference at the special meeting room in his office, here, shortly after witnessing the signing of an agreement between the North Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) and four companies that had agreed to invest RM1.96 billion in the states in the Northern Corridor of Malaysia.
He said this when referring to the possibility that there would be good news for the 1.4 million civil servants following the request by Cuepacs which was still hopeful that the government would pay a half-month bonus to public servants although they would be receiving their annual increment this month.
The Cuepacs statement cropped up a day after Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa said the government had yet to discuss the bonus payment, and the announcement on the Annual Salary Increment (KGT) twice this year could be considered as a bonus. - Bernama
(Source: Daily Express)
NCIA ropes in RM1.96 bln as a result of collaboration with private sector
 |
| VAST INVESTMENTS: Najib (centre) along with Redza (right) and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, Datuk Abdul Wahid Omar during the signing ceremony yesterday. The NCIA has roped in RM1.96 billion as a result of its collaboration with the private sector in four projects in each of the states under its purview. — Bernama photo |
PUTRAJAYA: The Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) has roped in RM1.96 billion as a result of its collaboration with the private sector in four projects in each of the states under its purview.
Among the projects are the development of the first mall cum four-star hotel in Taiping, Perak, and a luxury boutique hotel in Langkawi.
NCIA chief executive Datuk Redza Rafique said the four projects were aimed at ensuring the local communities in the northern region would be able to benefit through job creation.
The projects are expected to generate 3,650 jobs and business opportunities.
“Putting aside the investment amount, our ultimate objective in Koridor Utara (Northern Corridor) is to pursue the agenda of growth with social equity,” said Redza.
British lords praise Najib
GEORGE TOWN: Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak’s decision to engage Hindraf to address ethnic Indian issues has won praise from members of the British House of Lords.
Lord Diljit Rana called it a wise move and Baroness Sandip Verma said it showed Najib’s seriousness in addressing issues of concern to the Indian community.
Both spoke yesterday at a ceremony to honour Hindraf chairman P Waythamoorthy’s appointments as a senator and deputy minister in charge of Indian affairs.
The event, sponsored by Rana and Verma, was held in the British upper house. Among the guests were Malaysia’s Deputy High Commissioner to Britain, Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah. Several Malaysians residing in London and representatives of various civic groups also attended.
Interns to bridge gap between government and young Malaysians
 |
| Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak (right), attending the Invest Malaysia 2013 event held in Kuala Lumpur on 13 June 2013. |
KUALA LUMPUR - The 70 interns set to work under the various ministries under the Perdana Fellows Programme will help bridge the gap between the Government and young Malaysians, said Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
"We hope that these 70 youths will be the unofficial spokespersons of the Government to reach out to other youths via social media and so on," said the Prime Minister.
"There is still a gap between the Government and Malaysian youths and we are not connected to them.
Hopefully, with this programme, we can become closer," he said after launching the programme at the Parliament building here yesterday.
11 Malaysian Companies Given Approval To Export Bird's Nest To China - Najib
KUALA LUMPUR, July 15 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak today
announced that the Chinese government has given approval to 11 Malaysian
companies to resume the export of swiftlet nests to that country,
subject to several conditions.
The Prime Minister said the decision would enable the country's swiftlet nest industry to be revived after exports of the product to China had been delayed for more than two years.
Najib said he would ask the Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry and the Health Ministry to take follow-up action on the matter immediately.
"The bird's nest issue is important as it involves many people and had been delayed for too long. Exports were delayed for two years, that's why the price of bird's nest plumetted. Following the decision, the bird's nest industry can be revived soon.
"(Special envoy to China) Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting had taken various initiatives with the Chinese government to the extent that they have given special approval to Malaysia," Najib told reporters after receiving a call from a delegation from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region at his office at Parliament House, here today.
The seven-member delegation was led by the newly-appointed Guangxi Governor, Chen Wu. Ong was also present.
The Prime Minister said the decision would enable the country's swiftlet nest industry to be revived after exports of the product to China had been delayed for more than two years.
Najib said he would ask the Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Ministry and the Health Ministry to take follow-up action on the matter immediately.
"The bird's nest issue is important as it involves many people and had been delayed for too long. Exports were delayed for two years, that's why the price of bird's nest plumetted. Following the decision, the bird's nest industry can be revived soon.
"(Special envoy to China) Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting had taken various initiatives with the Chinese government to the extent that they have given special approval to Malaysia," Najib told reporters after receiving a call from a delegation from the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region at his office at Parliament House, here today.
The seven-member delegation was led by the newly-appointed Guangxi Governor, Chen Wu. Ong was also present.
Be Grateful Ramadan Can Be Celebrated In Peace And Harmony - Najib
PEKAN, July 13 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said Muslims in
the country should be grateful for the peace and political stability
Malaysia had been blessed with all this while as this enables them to
carry out their religious activities without any hindrance especially
during the holy month of Ramadan.
The Prime Minister said Ramadan was eagerly awaited by Muslims in the country to seek Allah's blessings.
"All Muslims in the country anticipate Ramadan full of joy because of the holiness of the month.
"We should be grateful and consider ourselves fortunate to be able to celebrate Ramadan in peace and harmony and carry out our religious obligations to the best of our ability," he said at a breaking-of-the fast ceremony at Masjid Chini 2 here Saturday.
Najib said the peace and stability Malaysia was enjoying was a far cry from the situation in many other Islamic countries especially in the Middle East.
In Egypt and Syria, for example, he said political turmoil made it challenging for Muslims to fast and carry out other religious activities.
"In Syria, millions of Muslims have become refugees and are forced to live in tents with an uncertain future ahead of them.
"Citizens of Iraq, Afghanistan and Palestine live in unrest and insecurity while we here in Malaysia are free to make a living for a future," he said.
Najib, who recently returned from a working visit in Tanzania, also shared on the economic situation of African nations and said there was a huge gap compared to Malaysia.
"There are many Muslims there, but their achievement and income is different from us. The per capita income there is USD1500 (RM4763.25) while ours is USD10,000 per capita (RM31755.00).
"Why are they left behind compared to Malaysia although they are rich in oil and fertile land? This is because their political leadership is different from ours here," he said.
At the ceremony, Najib also presented Ramadan contributions to 126 senior citizens from around Felda Chini before breaking fast and performing the Maghrib prayers with the congregation.
(Source: Bernama)
The Prime Minister said Ramadan was eagerly awaited by Muslims in the country to seek Allah's blessings.
"All Muslims in the country anticipate Ramadan full of joy because of the holiness of the month.
"We should be grateful and consider ourselves fortunate to be able to celebrate Ramadan in peace and harmony and carry out our religious obligations to the best of our ability," he said at a breaking-of-the fast ceremony at Masjid Chini 2 here Saturday.
Najib said the peace and stability Malaysia was enjoying was a far cry from the situation in many other Islamic countries especially in the Middle East.
In Egypt and Syria, for example, he said political turmoil made it challenging for Muslims to fast and carry out other religious activities.
"In Syria, millions of Muslims have become refugees and are forced to live in tents with an uncertain future ahead of them.
"Citizens of Iraq, Afghanistan and Palestine live in unrest and insecurity while we here in Malaysia are free to make a living for a future," he said.
Najib, who recently returned from a working visit in Tanzania, also shared on the economic situation of African nations and said there was a huge gap compared to Malaysia.
"There are many Muslims there, but their achievement and income is different from us. The per capita income there is USD1500 (RM4763.25) while ours is USD10,000 per capita (RM31755.00).
"Why are they left behind compared to Malaysia although they are rich in oil and fertile land? This is because their political leadership is different from ours here," he said.
At the ceremony, Najib also presented Ramadan contributions to 126 senior citizens from around Felda Chini before breaking fast and performing the Maghrib prayers with the congregation.
(Source: Bernama)
Tuesday 9 July 2013
Govt fully committed to providing quality houses for people: Najib
KUALA LUMPUR (July 8, 2013): The government is fully
committed to providing affordable and quality houses for the people,
said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak.
"Affordable housing has always been of paramount importance to the Barisan Nasional government," Najib said in his latest posting on Facebook today.
In that spirit, he said, the government aimed to build 100,000 houses nationwide under the 1Malaysia Civil Servants' Housing Programme as part of its commitment to deliver cheap and quality housing for all.
Yesterday, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa said a total of 100,000 houses would be built under the 1Malaysia Civil Servants' Housing Programme (PPA1M) nationwide.
Besides Putrajaya, the government will identify strategic locations in the federal capital and major centres, including in Sabah and Sarawak, to expand the programme. – Bernama
(Source: The Sun Daily)
"Affordable housing has always been of paramount importance to the Barisan Nasional government," Najib said in his latest posting on Facebook today.
In that spirit, he said, the government aimed to build 100,000 houses nationwide under the 1Malaysia Civil Servants' Housing Programme as part of its commitment to deliver cheap and quality housing for all.
Yesterday, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa said a total of 100,000 houses would be built under the 1Malaysia Civil Servants' Housing Programme (PPA1M) nationwide.
Besides Putrajaya, the government will identify strategic locations in the federal capital and major centres, including in Sabah and Sarawak, to expand the programme. – Bernama
(Source: The Sun Daily)
Monday 8 July 2013
Najib: Abrupt change, like in Egypt, is dangerous
LONDON - Malaysians should take a leaf out of the ongoing political turmoil in Egypt and be aware of the danger of changes that comes in an abrupt manner, says Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
"Change, if improperly managed, will be disastrous for the country," he said.
"While change is good for prosperity and stability, it has to be managed well or else people will suffer because the change did not end up as expected.
"And if that happens, those wanting the changes in the first place will want another change and any uprising will lead to instability.
"Subsequently, such situations will lead to problems such as soaring consumer prices and unemployment that will impact businesses, especially on tourism."
The Prime Minister was speaking to Malaysian journalists after the groundbreaking ceremony of the Battersea Power Station project here yesterday.
In Sepang, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said there was no immediate need to evacuate Malaysian students in Egypt.
M'sia has gone from a colony to cornerstone investor: Najib
LONDON (July 6, 2013:
Malaysia is a place of endless possibilities as it now has gone from
being a colony to a cornerstone investor with the development of the
Battersea Power Station project, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib
Abdul Razak.
"Sixty years ago, few would have predicted that Malaysian money would bring Battersea to life," he said in his address at the groundbreaking ceremony of the iconic Battersea Power Station project, officiated together with British Prime Minister David Cameron on Thursday in southwest London.
Malaysia, he added, was one of the bright lights in the global economy with GDP growing by 6.9 per cent over the past four decades.
In congratulating the Malaysian consortium for their part in Battersea's revival, he said their template for success would be repeated, not just in London, but around the world.
He said the development also signalled how the relationship between both nations are changing.
"As one of London's innumerable foreign admirers, it gives me great pleasure to think that my country is helping preserve one of its most distinctive buildings.
"And it also gives me great hope for the future -– not just Malaysia, but for our relationship with the United Kingdom, and the world," he said.
Rather than being rivals, he said, East and West are stronger as partners for prosperity by committing to open up economies and societies and welcoming the best of what the world can offer.
The Battersea Power Station project showed what was possible when it was done together, he said. He said Battersea, a monument to Britain's past – as the birthplace of industry, and a beacon of modernity – has lain silent for 30 years.
"When Battersea's towers first soared above the southern reaches of the Thames, they symbolised the hopes and strengths of Britain. Elegant of form and advanced in function, they were the mark of a confident nation, looking to the future. It is this same spirit that I recognise here today," he said.
He thanked Prime Minister Cameron for his warm welcome, and his commitment to Malaysia, saying that the British Prime Minister has done so much to strengthen ties between both nations. His visit to Malaysia last year was very well received, putting right a period of benign neglect. – Bernama
(Source: http://www.sun2surf.com)
"Sixty years ago, few would have predicted that Malaysian money would bring Battersea to life," he said in his address at the groundbreaking ceremony of the iconic Battersea Power Station project, officiated together with British Prime Minister David Cameron on Thursday in southwest London.
Malaysia, he added, was one of the bright lights in the global economy with GDP growing by 6.9 per cent over the past four decades.
In congratulating the Malaysian consortium for their part in Battersea's revival, he said their template for success would be repeated, not just in London, but around the world.
He said the development also signalled how the relationship between both nations are changing.
"As one of London's innumerable foreign admirers, it gives me great pleasure to think that my country is helping preserve one of its most distinctive buildings.
"And it also gives me great hope for the future -– not just Malaysia, but for our relationship with the United Kingdom, and the world," he said.
Rather than being rivals, he said, East and West are stronger as partners for prosperity by committing to open up economies and societies and welcoming the best of what the world can offer.
The Battersea Power Station project showed what was possible when it was done together, he said. He said Battersea, a monument to Britain's past – as the birthplace of industry, and a beacon of modernity – has lain silent for 30 years.
"When Battersea's towers first soared above the southern reaches of the Thames, they symbolised the hopes and strengths of Britain. Elegant of form and advanced in function, they were the mark of a confident nation, looking to the future. It is this same spirit that I recognise here today," he said.
He thanked Prime Minister Cameron for his warm welcome, and his commitment to Malaysia, saying that the British Prime Minister has done so much to strengthen ties between both nations. His visit to Malaysia last year was very well received, putting right a period of benign neglect. – Bernama
(Source: http://www.sun2surf.com)
London visit takes Malaysia-UK ties to greater heights
 |
| GREATER HEIGHTS: File photo shows Najib (right) talking to David Cameron during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Battersea Power Station development on July 4. The Prime Minister’s four-day visit to the UK which ended on Thursday has taken Kuala Lumpur-London relationships to greater heights. — Bernama photo |
This was manifested by the launch of the iconic Battersea Power Station (BSP) project in London by a Malaysian consortium comprising SP Setia Bhd, Sime Darby Bhd and the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
The 15.6 hectare redevelopment project, with gross development value (GDV) of eight billion pounds sterling, will see some 3,500 new homes built as well as offices, shoplots and a park in West London, and is expected to take at least 10 years to complete and create 15,000 jobs.
Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin, chairman of joint venture company BSP Holding Co, said at a press conference here on Wednesday the project marks the move by local companies from being ‘juara kampung’ to international champions.
“Combining the strengths of the three companies together, we can beat every company in the world to become world champions and not just look at being ‘jaguh kampung’,” he said.
Wednesday 3 July 2013
Najib wants youths to make change in a productive way
LONDON (July 3, 2013): Malaysian Prime
Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak has called on youths who are
willing to make change to do it in a productive way.
He said those who want to make a change by taking to the streets should know whether it makes their country better or creates an unfavourable outcome.
Najib was launching the first international 1Malaysia for Youth (iM4U) outreach centre at Rumah Malaysia here Tuesday night. He said the opening of the centre, with the collaboration of the United Kingdom Eire (Ireland) Council for Malaysian Students (UKEC), in London was another landmark achievement for iM4U.
Najib, who is chairman of the iM4U Board of Trustees, said that to help kickstart the collaboration between UKEC and iM4U, a grant of 10,000 pounds (RM48,234) from iM4U's DRe1M Fund would be used for the first 10 outreach initiatives.
He said those who want to make a change by taking to the streets should know whether it makes their country better or creates an unfavourable outcome.
Najib was launching the first international 1Malaysia for Youth (iM4U) outreach centre at Rumah Malaysia here Tuesday night. He said the opening of the centre, with the collaboration of the United Kingdom Eire (Ireland) Council for Malaysian Students (UKEC), in London was another landmark achievement for iM4U.
Najib, who is chairman of the iM4U Board of Trustees, said that to help kickstart the collaboration between UKEC and iM4U, a grant of 10,000 pounds (RM48,234) from iM4U's DRe1M Fund would be used for the first 10 outreach initiatives.
Najib: Malaysia, UK targeting RM26bil bilateral trade by 2016
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said he was looking forward
to meeting his British counterpart David Cameron on Thursday.
Najib, who is on a four-day working visit to the UK, noted that the two countries have both begun looking to each other for greater investment opportunities and business growth.
"And we have set a challenging target to jointly achieve RM26 billion of bilateral trade by 2016.
"That's double from what we currently enjoy from the good trading relationship we have together," he said on his Facebook account.
Najib said a first step towards this goal will be the launch of the Battersea Power Station project, which is being jointly developed by SP Setia Bhd, Sime Darby Bhd and the Employees Provident Fund.
"I'm confident that other ambitious partnerships will follow," he added. - Bernama, July 3, 2013.
(Source: The Malaysian Insider)
Najib, who is on a four-day working visit to the UK, noted that the two countries have both begun looking to each other for greater investment opportunities and business growth.
"And we have set a challenging target to jointly achieve RM26 billion of bilateral trade by 2016.
"That's double from what we currently enjoy from the good trading relationship we have together," he said on his Facebook account.
Najib said a first step towards this goal will be the launch of the Battersea Power Station project, which is being jointly developed by SP Setia Bhd, Sime Darby Bhd and the Employees Provident Fund.
"I'm confident that other ambitious partnerships will follow," he added. - Bernama, July 3, 2013.
(Source: The Malaysian Insider)
Good Ties With Others Generating Great Opportunities For Malaysia - Najib
KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said
Malaysia's good relations with other countries generated ample
opportunities to the country.
The prime minister noted that an increasing number of countries were opening their doors to Malaysian investment.
"More and more countries are opening their doors to Malaysia to invest in. Our good relations are breeding great opportunities," he tweeted Monday.
Najib is currently on a four-day working visit to the United Kingdom, aimed at strengthening the good relations between the two countries.
Prior to that, the prime minister led the Malaysian delegation at the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue themed, 'Leveraging Technology For Africa's Socio-Economic Transformation', in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. Najib also tweeted that Tanzania's Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) blueprint was ready.
Noting that the document had adapted the best practice gleaned from Malaysia's own ETP to suit Tanzania's needs, he hoped it would be implemented successfully.
Najib also said he had a good discussion with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni which touched on their shared interests.
Meanwhile, the prime minister further tweeted that 40,000 Malaysian housewives would be trained under the 1Malaysia Support for Housewives programme.
"It will be a good opportunity for them to increase household income," he said.
(Source: Bernama)
The prime minister noted that an increasing number of countries were opening their doors to Malaysian investment.
"More and more countries are opening their doors to Malaysia to invest in. Our good relations are breeding great opportunities," he tweeted Monday.
Najib is currently on a four-day working visit to the United Kingdom, aimed at strengthening the good relations between the two countries.
Prior to that, the prime minister led the Malaysian delegation at the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue themed, 'Leveraging Technology For Africa's Socio-Economic Transformation', in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. Najib also tweeted that Tanzania's Economic Transformation Programme (ETP) blueprint was ready.
Noting that the document had adapted the best practice gleaned from Malaysia's own ETP to suit Tanzania's needs, he hoped it would be implemented successfully.
Najib also said he had a good discussion with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni which touched on their shared interests.
Meanwhile, the prime minister further tweeted that 40,000 Malaysian housewives would be trained under the 1Malaysia Support for Housewives programme.
"It will be a good opportunity for them to increase household income," he said.
(Source: Bernama)
Najib in London to enhance ties
DATUK Seri Najib Razak arrived here yesterday for a four-day working
visit and will meet his British counterpart, David Cameron, to enhance
bilateral ties.
The Najib-Cameron talks will be held on Thursday prior to both leaders unveiling a plaque to mark the commencement of the iconic Battersea Power Station redevelopment project.
The mixed-development multi-billion-ringgit project, on the south bank of River Thames, is being undertaken by the Malaysian consortium of Sime Darby Bhd, SP Setia Bhd and Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
Malaysian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), Datuk Seri Zakaria Sulong, said he expected the two leaders to touch on various issues, especially on efforts to boost bilateral trade.
Investors show trust in Malaysia
ECONOMIC REALITY: Their sentiment is not marred by the negative image painted by the opposition.
So, when fund managers managing RM13 trillion worth of assets came for the annual Invest Malaysia gathering two weeks ago, it says a lot about Malaysia's continued presence on both home and foreign investors' radars. Participants at the forum said it was easily the largest ever gathering of fund and asset managers at the annual event.
On any other day, the number of attendees would not be as surprising. Malaysia has always been at the top of the list of regional destinations favoured by investors. The nation has enjoyed stability, has a progressive legislation in as far as investment is concerned and has remained largely predictable and consistent in regulatory frameworks it has designed for the investment market. But the annual event two weeks ago wasn't just any other day.
Malaysia had just undergone what many described as one of the most bruising general elections in its history. The ruling Barisan Nasional coalition, headed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, was attacked viciously on all fronts in the months leading to the polling day.
His political opponents stopped at nothing to discredit everything his government had done for Malaysia.
And, this time, and especially with the advent of the Internet, the political smearing of Malaysia took on an even wider spectrum, in that the perception battle was not fought entirely in Malaysia.
Tanzanian ETP Blueprint ready with Malaysia’s help
 |
| BIG CREDITS: Najib (right) and Tanzania president Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete (fourth right) during a dialogue. Najib said it was a big credit to Malaysia as Tanzania has chosen the Malaysian model and not the Western model for uplifting its socio-economic development. — Bernama photo |
DAR ES SALAAM (Tanzania): The blueprint for the Tanzanian economic transformation programme (ETP) is ready with the help of Malaysia.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the plan was drawn by the Tanzanians with the help of Malaysians and tailored to their needs although they emulated the Malaysian Economic Transformation Programmes aimed at transforming Malaysia into a high-income nation by 2020.
“The Tanzanian government invited Datuk Seri Idris Jala (Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department) four times to brief their cabinet members,” Najib told Malaysian media on the sidelines of the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue here.
Najib said it was a big credit to Malaysia as Tanzania has chosen the Malaysian model and not the Western model for uplifting its socio-economic development.
He said Tanzania had shown interest in the ETP at the Langkawi International Dialogue held in Putrajaya in 2011.
Najib said some other African nations are also interested in emulating the ETP, which is aimed at doubling Malaysian per capita income from US$7,000 in 2010 to US$15,000 by 2010.
However, he cautioned that Malaysia would help Tanzania first before extending help to other countries as “we do not want to chew more than we can bite.” Idris, who was present at the press conference, said Malaysia is assisting Tanzania in providing technology for managing a government.
“We ran cabinet workshops and labs for agriculture, water, port, resources mobilisation and education in helping them to draw up the programme,” said Idris, who oversees the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu) main role is to oversee the implementation of the ETP and Government Transformation Programme (GTP).
He said they were impressed with the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) as even ministers have their own KPIs.
Tanzania has vast economic potential as it has a gas reserve of 35 trillion cu ft, said Idris, who was with an international oil company before joining the Malaysian cabinet. — Bernama
(Source: The Borneo Post)
‘Najib has stature to bring Malaysians together’
MELBOURNE: A leading Malaysian social commentator said Prime Minister
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has the “stature and authority’ to bring all
communities together after the recent general election.
“He is very sincere when he says ‘I want to rule for all Malaysians. This is very encouraging,” Tan Sri Robert Phang, the founder and chairman of Social Care Foundation, told Bernama, here.
“Najib is the best person to get to the root cause of the political malaise, especially among the Chinese,” he said, adding that a post-mortem should be conducted to ascertain reasons why MCA and other BN Chinese component parties were rejected by its own community.
“They have failed to connect with their constituents and this is a disaster. There is no Chinese representation in Cabinet. This is very disappointing. So something has to be done,” he said.
Phang was here to address the Victorian Chinese Chamber of Commerce at the weekend.
“He is very sincere when he says ‘I want to rule for all Malaysians. This is very encouraging,” Tan Sri Robert Phang, the founder and chairman of Social Care Foundation, told Bernama, here.
“Najib is the best person to get to the root cause of the political malaise, especially among the Chinese,” he said, adding that a post-mortem should be conducted to ascertain reasons why MCA and other BN Chinese component parties were rejected by its own community.
“They have failed to connect with their constituents and this is a disaster. There is no Chinese representation in Cabinet. This is very disappointing. So something has to be done,” he said.
Phang was here to address the Victorian Chinese Chamber of Commerce at the weekend.
More investment opportunities for Msian companies - Najib
DAR ES SALAAM (Tanzania): Algeria has offered Petronas to make a bid
to team up with oil exploring firms in the country while Malaysian
corporation are in negotiations with the Tanzanian authorities to build
highways and specialist hospitals.
Datuk Seri Najib Razak said UEM Group Bhd was seeking to build a tolled highway that would connect the city with surrounding regions.
“The Dar es Salaam port is a strategic outlet for nations such as Rwanda, Burundi and Zambia. The current roads are congested and so the new highway is very important,” the prime minister said.
Malaysia may also get involved in the healthcare sector in Tanzania.
Datuk Seri Najib Razak said UEM Group Bhd was seeking to build a tolled highway that would connect the city with surrounding regions.
“The Dar es Salaam port is a strategic outlet for nations such as Rwanda, Burundi and Zambia. The current roads are congested and so the new highway is very important,” the prime minister said.
Malaysia may also get involved in the healthcare sector in Tanzania.
Limkokwing U offers 10 scholarships to African nations - Najib
DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA: Limkokwing University of Creative
Technology is offering 10 full scholarships to African nations
participating in the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue to help them
build their human capital and technological capacity.
The university has established a presence in Africa. It has campuses in Lesotho, Botswana and Swaziland, and is proposing to build one in Tanzania.
Najib told Malaysian newsmen yesterday the land for the project had already been identified and that construction would start soon.
(Source: www.nst.com.my)
Set up partnerships with African nations, M’sians urged
MALAYSIA has opened the doors for its businessmen to venture into Africa by having smart partnerships with countries in the continent, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
Entrepreneurs, he said, should study the niche opportunities available in the region and develop win-win ties with African companies.
There were opportunities in education, palm oil, tourism and several other areas, he added.
“The networking we have set up here has made Malaysia a popular nation in the African continent, compared to other countries,” Najib said, adding that this gave Malaysian business entities a headstart.
Najib was speaking to Malaysian reporters after taking part in a dialogue themed “Leveraging Technology for Smart Growth in Socio-Economic Transformation” during the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre here yesterday. As the prime mover of this smart partnership dialogue, first launched in Langkawi in 1995, Najib said Malaysia was committed to sharing its experiences and weaknesses.
“African nations want to follow our concept and learn from our experiences and expertise,” he pointed out.
Malaysian private university offers scholarships to Africans
DAR ES SALAAM (June 30, 2013):
In the latest move by Malaysia to help Africa build up its
technological capabilities through human capital development, a
Malaysian private university is offering 10 full scholarships to each
African country participating in the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue.
The initiative is in addition to the Malaysian government's assistance in the area of education in this region.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak announced during the Global Smart Partners' Dinner, here, last night that Limkokwing University of Creative Technology offered the scholarships.
Seventeen African nations are participating in the dialogue, a platform for heads of government and state, business leaders, scientists and academicians to meet and discuss how science, technology and innovation can be leveraged to boost socio-economic transformation in the continent.
Najib said the university had three campuses, in Lesotho, Botswana and Swaziland respectively currently, and planned to set up a new campus in Tanzania.
(Source: http://www.sun2surf.com)
The initiative is in addition to the Malaysian government's assistance in the area of education in this region.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak announced during the Global Smart Partners' Dinner, here, last night that Limkokwing University of Creative Technology offered the scholarships.
Seventeen African nations are participating in the dialogue, a platform for heads of government and state, business leaders, scientists and academicians to meet and discuss how science, technology and innovation can be leveraged to boost socio-economic transformation in the continent.
Najib said the university had three campuses, in Lesotho, Botswana and Swaziland respectively currently, and planned to set up a new campus in Tanzania.
(Source: http://www.sun2surf.com)
PM: We have gained from Africa
DAR ES SALAAM (Tanzania): MALAYSIA'S influence and reach in the African
continent have grown tremendously over the years, thanks to the Smart
Partnership Dialogue, the prime minister said yesterday.
This has benefited the country in the form of numerous opportunities for its companies and entrepreneurs.
Datuk Seri Najib Razak said these companies had achieved successes which may not be widely known in the country.
He cited as an example a Malaysian company in Kampala which imported furniture worth millions of ringgit annually from Malaysia for the Ugandan market.
"Petronas' ventures in Sudan are also a result of Malaysia's focus on Africa," he told Malaysian newsmen at a press conference at the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue 2013 at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre here yesterday.
"There is also Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, which has branch campuses in Lesotho, Botswana and Swaziland, with a new one proposed for Tanzania."
Earlier, Najib attended a dialogue session on "Leveraging Technology for Smart Growth in Socio-Economic Transformation" with leaders and delegates.
He told newsmen that he shared Malaysia's experience -- its successes and weaknesses -- in applying technology towards meeting its goals and aspirations.
This has benefited the country in the form of numerous opportunities for its companies and entrepreneurs.
Datuk Seri Najib Razak said these companies had achieved successes which may not be widely known in the country.
He cited as an example a Malaysian company in Kampala which imported furniture worth millions of ringgit annually from Malaysia for the Ugandan market.
"Petronas' ventures in Sudan are also a result of Malaysia's focus on Africa," he told Malaysian newsmen at a press conference at the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue 2013 at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre here yesterday.
"There is also Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, which has branch campuses in Lesotho, Botswana and Swaziland, with a new one proposed for Tanzania."
Earlier, Najib attended a dialogue session on "Leveraging Technology for Smart Growth in Socio-Economic Transformation" with leaders and delegates.
He told newsmen that he shared Malaysia's experience -- its successes and weaknesses -- in applying technology towards meeting its goals and aspirations.
Najib to open Battersea project with UK’s Cameron in London
After concluding his working visit in Tanzania, Prime Minister Datuk
Seri Najib Razak is scheduled to be in London to jointly-officiate the
groundbreaking of the Battersea Power Station Project with his United
Kingdom counterpart David Cameron, this Thursday.
The project is being developed by the Battersea Project Holding Company Ltd, a joint-venture company owned by a Malaysian consortium comprising SP Setia, Sime Darby and the Employees Provident Fund.
Wisma Putra, in a statement here today, said the Malaysian consortium had successfully bid for the project through an open tender last September, and the presence of the two premiers at the ceremony symbolises the close political and economic ties between both countries.
During his six-day working visit starting from July 1, Najib will also hold a bilateral meeting with Cameron prior to the groundbreaking ceremony, where the two leaders will exchange views on bilateral matters as well as regional and international issues of common interest.
"The working visit is expected to further deepen the friendly and close ties between Malaysia and the UK, and it also serves as another example of the increased frequency of bilateral exchanges between the two countries over the past three years," the statement said.
The project is being developed by the Battersea Project Holding Company Ltd, a joint-venture company owned by a Malaysian consortium comprising SP Setia, Sime Darby and the Employees Provident Fund.
Wisma Putra, in a statement here today, said the Malaysian consortium had successfully bid for the project through an open tender last September, and the presence of the two premiers at the ceremony symbolises the close political and economic ties between both countries.
During his six-day working visit starting from July 1, Najib will also hold a bilateral meeting with Cameron prior to the groundbreaking ceremony, where the two leaders will exchange views on bilateral matters as well as regional and international issues of common interest.
"The working visit is expected to further deepen the friendly and close ties between Malaysia and the UK, and it also serves as another example of the increased frequency of bilateral exchanges between the two countries over the past three years," the statement said.
Najib arrives in Tanzania for the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue
DAR ES SALAAM (TANZANIA) – Datuk Seri Najib Razak arrived here last night to attend the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue.
He was accompanied by his wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Idris Jala, and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa.
They were greeted on arrival by Tanzanian Minister for Communication, Science and Technology Prof Makame M. Mbarawa at the airport named after this country's founding father.
Najib will be joining 14 others heads of states and governments from African countries for the two-days dialogue starting tomorrow at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre, Dar Es Salaam, the country’s commercial capital.
The Malaysian premier is scheduled to leave on Sunday night for London for a working visit there. -- BERNAMA
 |
| Najib and Rosmah chat with Tanzanian Minister for Communication, Science and Technology Prof Makame M. Mbarawa at the Julius Nyerere International Airport. - Bernama |
African nations need vision to propel development, says Najib
African nations need a clear vision by political leadership to propel
their development to the next level, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri
Najib Tun Razak.
Political leadership without vision would lead the continent nowhere in terms of development, he told the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.
Speaking to Malaysian journalists later, Najib said he shared with about 800 participants that they need science, technology and innovation policies in setting the development direction of their respective countries.
“They need to take into account the human and financial capital aspects,” said Najib, adding that they needed to draw their development plans according to their needs as there was no single formula that could be fixed for all.
He said African countries were still exporting their raw materials and they could not enjoy appropriate returns as they did not value-add their exports.
Political leadership without vision would lead the continent nowhere in terms of development, he told the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.
Speaking to Malaysian journalists later, Najib said he shared with about 800 participants that they need science, technology and innovation policies in setting the development direction of their respective countries.
“They need to take into account the human and financial capital aspects,” said Najib, adding that they needed to draw their development plans according to their needs as there was no single formula that could be fixed for all.
He said African countries were still exporting their raw materials and they could not enjoy appropriate returns as they did not value-add their exports.
Mandela and Obama taking the thunder from GSPD
DAR ES SALAAM (Tanzania): The
fate of Nelson Mandela, who is critically ill in South Africa, has
overshadowed the opening of the Global Partnership Dialogue (GSPD) 2013
at which is a Malaysian delegation led by the Prime Minister.
Tanzanians are holding prayers for the anti-apartheid icon. The 10 current and five former presidents from African countries attending the dialogue may have to cut short their trip to go to Johannesburg if Mandela’s condition turns for the worse.
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who is accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, arrived at the Julius Nyerere International Airport here last night to join the think-tank sessions which begin today.
Yesterday, Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete opened the dialogue at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre.
The four-day meeting is receiving mixed attention owing to Mandela’s ill health. Furthermore, Tanzania is also all set for Barack Obama’s visit on Monday.
Tanzanians are holding prayers for the anti-apartheid icon. The 10 current and five former presidents from African countries attending the dialogue may have to cut short their trip to go to Johannesburg if Mandela’s condition turns for the worse.
Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who is accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, arrived at the Julius Nyerere International Airport here last night to join the think-tank sessions which begin today.
Yesterday, Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete opened the dialogue at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre.
The four-day meeting is receiving mixed attention owing to Mandela’s ill health. Furthermore, Tanzania is also all set for Barack Obama’s visit on Monday.
Najib leads 100-member delegation to Tanzania dialogue
DAR ES SALAAM (Tanzania): Datuk Seri Najib Tun
Razak is expected to promote Malaysia-Africa ties, investment and trade
further at the Global Smart Partnership Dialogue (GSPD) here tomorrow.
The Prime Minister will lead a 100-member delegation there that in-cludes Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Idris Jala, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa and former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Najib will also be accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, apart from captains of industry from 28 Malaysian companies.
The premier is due to arrive at the Julius Nyerere International Airport here today.
With the dialogue’s theme of Leveraging Technology for Africa’s Socio-Economic Transformation, Najib is expected to share his transformation programmes to turn Malaysia into a high-income and developed nation by 2020 with the participants over the weekend.
Malaysian High Commissioner to Kenya Ismail Salam, who is also the Malaysian High Commissioner designate to Tanzania, said Najib would be joining 14 other heads of states and governments from African countries at the dialogue. It will be held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre here.
Ismail said Malaysia’s presence would show the country’s commitment to address international issues, especially matters that were of importance to the African continent.
“We have strong links in education and tourism with the African countries,” said Ismail. “And we want to enhance these to other areas of services.”
GSPD is held alternately between Malaysia and countries in southern Africa. Putrajaya hosted the 2011 international dialogue.
(Source: The Star Online)
The Prime Minister will lead a 100-member delegation there that in-cludes Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Idris Jala, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa and former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Najib will also be accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, apart from captains of industry from 28 Malaysian companies.
The premier is due to arrive at the Julius Nyerere International Airport here today.
With the dialogue’s theme of Leveraging Technology for Africa’s Socio-Economic Transformation, Najib is expected to share his transformation programmes to turn Malaysia into a high-income and developed nation by 2020 with the participants over the weekend.
Malaysian High Commissioner to Kenya Ismail Salam, who is also the Malaysian High Commissioner designate to Tanzania, said Najib would be joining 14 other heads of states and governments from African countries at the dialogue. It will be held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre here.
Ismail said Malaysia’s presence would show the country’s commitment to address international issues, especially matters that were of importance to the African continent.
“We have strong links in education and tourism with the African countries,” said Ismail. “And we want to enhance these to other areas of services.”
GSPD is held alternately between Malaysia and countries in southern Africa. Putrajaya hosted the 2011 international dialogue.
(Source: The Star Online)
Najib To Further Promote Malaysia-Africa Ties, Trade
DAR ES SALAAM (TANZANIA), June 27 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk
Seri Najib Tun Razak is expected to further promote Malaysia-Africa
ties, investment and trade when he arrives for the Global Smart
Partnership Dialogue, here, tomorrow.
Najib will be leading an over 100-member Malaysian delegation including Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Idris Jala and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa and former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Najib will also be accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, apart from a business delegation comprising captains of industry from 28 Malaysian companies.
The premier is scheduled to arrive at the Julius Nyerere International Airport, here, at 10pm tomorrow (Malaysian time: 3am, June 29).
Malaysian High Commissioner to Kenya, Ismail Salam, who is also the Malaysian High Commissioner designate to Tanzania, said Najib would be joining 14 other heads of state/government from African countries at the dialogue to be held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre, here, named after Tanzania's founding father, on Saturday.
Najib will be leading an over 100-member Malaysian delegation including Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Idris Jala and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa and former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Najib will also be accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, apart from a business delegation comprising captains of industry from 28 Malaysian companies.
The premier is scheduled to arrive at the Julius Nyerere International Airport, here, at 10pm tomorrow (Malaysian time: 3am, June 29).
Malaysian High Commissioner to Kenya, Ismail Salam, who is also the Malaysian High Commissioner designate to Tanzania, said Najib would be joining 14 other heads of state/government from African countries at the dialogue to be held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre, here, named after Tanzania's founding father, on Saturday.
Najib Welcomes UK Move To Increase Chevening Scholarships For Malaysians
KUALA LUMPUR, June 27 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun
Razak has welcomed the United Kingdom's consideration to increase the
number of its Chevening scholarships for Malaysian students.
"UK considering increasing number of Chevening scholarships for Malaysians. Welcome move for students looking to further studies," he said in a tweet Thursday.
Yesterday, UK's Minister in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Hugo Swire, said increasing the number of scholarships was a good way of furthering relations between the two countries which was already at an all-time high.
He said Malaysia was currently the second country where the UK was sponsoring the largest number of students for the prestigious scholarship.
(Source: Bernama)
"UK considering increasing number of Chevening scholarships for Malaysians. Welcome move for students looking to further studies," he said in a tweet Thursday.
Yesterday, UK's Minister in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Hugo Swire, said increasing the number of scholarships was a good way of furthering relations between the two countries which was already at an all-time high.
He said Malaysia was currently the second country where the UK was sponsoring the largest number of students for the prestigious scholarship.
(Source: Bernama)
Najib confirms pact with Anwar unsigned, but committed to reconciliation
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has confirmed that he did
not sign the now-infamous reconciliation agreement with Pakatan Rakyat
brokered by former Indonesian vice-president Jusuf Kalla, saying that he
had to obtain the approval of other Umno leaders and that involved a
long process.
In an interview with Indonesian weekly Tempo, he said despite not having inked the deal which, among other things, called for Pakatan and Barisan Nasional to accept the May 5 poll results and ensure a peaceful transition of power had the Opposition won, he was committed to it.
Najib said that reconciliation was still possible but only if Anwar accepted the poll results. News of this agreement became public knowledge after its contents were leaked to a regional newspaper in the days after the hotly-contested elections which saw Barisan retain power but with a smaller majority and without the popular vote.
Anwar and Pakatan came under some pressure following the disclosure of the deal to move on and accept the results of the elections.
But the opposition leadear maintained that the agreement was null and void because there was widespread fraud in the polls and that Najib was not a signatory to it.
Tempo said that the idea of the reconciliation agreement came up around the end of April, before Malaysia held its 13th general election. Anwar visited Kalla at his Jakarta residence and raised the possibility of a plan to end the post-election tension in Malaysia. Anwar asked Kalla to mediate with Najib. Tempo noted that Kalla and Najib are known to be close, due to their Bugis background.
At that time, Anwar was confident his opposition alliance of parties would win the elections. Tempo noted that the issue of reconciliation was in the air two weeks ago following separate meetings between Anwar and Najib with Kalla.
In an interview with Indonesian weekly Tempo, he said despite not having inked the deal which, among other things, called for Pakatan and Barisan Nasional to accept the May 5 poll results and ensure a peaceful transition of power had the Opposition won, he was committed to it.
Najib said that reconciliation was still possible but only if Anwar accepted the poll results. News of this agreement became public knowledge after its contents were leaked to a regional newspaper in the days after the hotly-contested elections which saw Barisan retain power but with a smaller majority and without the popular vote.
Anwar and Pakatan came under some pressure following the disclosure of the deal to move on and accept the results of the elections.
But the opposition leadear maintained that the agreement was null and void because there was widespread fraud in the polls and that Najib was not a signatory to it.
Tempo said that the idea of the reconciliation agreement came up around the end of April, before Malaysia held its 13th general election. Anwar visited Kalla at his Jakarta residence and raised the possibility of a plan to end the post-election tension in Malaysia. Anwar asked Kalla to mediate with Najib. Tempo noted that Kalla and Najib are known to be close, due to their Bugis background.
At that time, Anwar was confident his opposition alliance of parties would win the elections. Tempo noted that the issue of reconciliation was in the air two weeks ago following separate meetings between Anwar and Najib with Kalla.
Compulsory voting not practical
KUALA LUMPUR (June 26, 2013): Compulsory voting will
not be introduced as it cannot be enforced in a practical manner, said
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak today.
Najib, however, said the government will look into the suggestion of introducing automatic registration but added that the government has not decided on the matter.
He said any proposal on changes to electoral rules must be studied to see if they are practical.
"We must see if the proposals are good or not, it must be looked (at) in terms of practicality.
"I don't think compulsory voting can be implemented; however automatic registration can be considered," he told Datuk Abd Latiff Ahmad (BN-Mersing).
In a supplementary question, Abd Latiff said the government should consider introducing compulsory voting and automatic registration due to the high voter turnout in the last general election on May 5.
To another supplementary question, Najib said the government is not wary of the term 'Malaysian Spring'.
"The government is not scared of the term 'Malaysian spring'. Like what I have emphasised, our action must be based on the Federal Constitution.
"This is the main point I have stressed, that is, we keep defending the Federal Constitution," he said in reply to Karpal Singh (DAP-Bukit Gelugor).
Karpal had asked if the government was afraid of the term 'Malaysian Spring' and if action will be taken against those who use it.
In an earlier question, Abd Latiff had asked if the government would take action against those who misused the word "rakyat" to voice their dissatisfaction over election results.
Najib said no action will be taken against them as the Federal Constitution allows the public to state their opinions freely.
"The irony is that those who have been vocal regarding the election results have accepted the results in their own states," he said, taking a swipe at the Opposition.
(Source: The Sun Daily)
Najib, however, said the government will look into the suggestion of introducing automatic registration but added that the government has not decided on the matter.
He said any proposal on changes to electoral rules must be studied to see if they are practical.
"We must see if the proposals are good or not, it must be looked (at) in terms of practicality.
"I don't think compulsory voting can be implemented; however automatic registration can be considered," he told Datuk Abd Latiff Ahmad (BN-Mersing).
In a supplementary question, Abd Latiff said the government should consider introducing compulsory voting and automatic registration due to the high voter turnout in the last general election on May 5.
To another supplementary question, Najib said the government is not wary of the term 'Malaysian Spring'.
"The government is not scared of the term 'Malaysian spring'. Like what I have emphasised, our action must be based on the Federal Constitution.
"This is the main point I have stressed, that is, we keep defending the Federal Constitution," he said in reply to Karpal Singh (DAP-Bukit Gelugor).
Karpal had asked if the government was afraid of the term 'Malaysian Spring' and if action will be taken against those who use it.
In an earlier question, Abd Latiff had asked if the government would take action against those who misused the word "rakyat" to voice their dissatisfaction over election results.
Najib said no action will be taken against them as the Federal Constitution allows the public to state their opinions freely.
"The irony is that those who have been vocal regarding the election results have accepted the results in their own states," he said, taking a swipe at the Opposition.
(Source: The Sun Daily)
Najib: Don't violate constitution when objecting GE13 results
KUALA LUMPUR: The government will not take any action against any
group using the word 'rakyat' merely to voice their objection against
the results of the 13th general election (GE13), said Datuk Seri Najib
Razak.
Najib, however, said that the government would give space for such demonstrations as long as they did not breach the law as provided for in the Federal Constitution.
"If the action taken exceeds the boundary of the Federal Constitution, the government will not hesitate to take action so that national sovereignty continues to be respected," he said when replying to a question from Datuk Abdul Latiff Ahmad (BN-Mersing) at the Dewan Rakyat sitting, here today.
Abdul Latiff wanted to know the government's view on the use of the word 'Rakyat' used to express dissatisfaction on the results of GE13 and the attempts to create the 'Malaysian Spring' in the first question raised at the Parliament sitting.
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