Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called upon the younger generation to not only remember the late Tun Abdul Razak Hussein as a historical figure but to reignite the torch of his struggles and ideas in the face of contemporary nation-building challenges.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that efforts to honor the contributions of Malaysia's second Prime Minister must be paired with a profound understanding of his ideas, thoughts, and values. These elements, he suggested, should serve as essential guides in navigating current challenges. He cautioned against viewing figures such as Tun Abdul Razak solely as part of the historical record, arguing that his ideas and struggles remain valuable and relevant for both current and future generations.
During his speech at the "Remembering Statesman Tun Abdul Razak: Architect of Nation-Building" program at the Tun Abdul Razak Memorial, Anwar stated, "This figure was no ordinary person, and he did not come and go as a simple historical tale. That is why it is our responsibility to keep the flame of his struggle burning brighter." The event was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, and National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.
The Prime Minister highlighted Tun Abdul Razak's pivotal role as a wise leader who developed the country post-independence amidst various challenges, including racial tensions, the communist threat, and a weak economy. Anwar also shared his personal experiences as a university student interacting with Tun Abdul Razak at his official residence, Seri Taman, where the latter was open to listening to young people's views.
Anwar noted that the New Economic Policy (NEP) was among Tun Abdul Razak's most significant legacies, aiming to restructure the economy and eradicate poverty regardless of race. He stressed that the NEP should not be misconstrued as only benefiting the elite but was intended to uplift the poor and provide competitive opportunities in entrepreneurship.
Reflecting on the original objectives of the NEP, Anwar said, "For me, the NEP remains a very noble vision in terms of restructuring society and eradicating poverty regardless of race." He reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to eradicating poverty comprehensively, continuing the spirit originally championed by Tun Abdul Razak.
Anwar also reminded the present generation of Tun Abdul Razak's message about the country's three main threats: Communism, Communalism, and Corruption. He emphasized the ongoing need to address racial sentiments and corruption, which persist as significant challenges.
The Prime Minister concluded by expressing the hope that the commemorative program would not only revisit Tun Abdul Razak's life and contributions but also highlight his ideas and thinking for new generations to appreciate. The program was organized by the Ministry of National Unity through the National Archives and the Tun Razak Foundation to ensure that the legacy of the country's statesmen is known and valued by future generations.