Putrajaya: National development cannot be based solely on physical achievements or mega projects, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. On the contrary, the Prime Minister emphasized that national development must also be enriched with values, identity, and cultural elements, which reflect Malaysia’s unique character and are deeply rooted in the nation’s history and the soul of its people.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar mentioned that this issue was one of several topics discussed during a courtesy call by members of the National Cultural Council (MAKEN), an independent body under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. MAKEN serves as an advisory body on matters related to national arts, culture, and heritage. The meeting took place at the Prime Minister’s office in Putrajaya.

Anwar highlighted that the discussion also covered efforts to broaden the community’s understanding of the concept of culture. He noted that culture should not be viewed narrowly as merely involving traditional music or attire, but as a system of values encompassing the nation’s way of life, thinking, and heritage. This perspective, he shared, was conveyed in a Facebook post following the meeting.