PUTRAJAYA: Government sector workers’ resolutions for 2020 should be to work harder for the sake of Malaysia’s progress, regardless of their political affiliations, said Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
"We have important roles to play, which will ensure whether Malaysia can be developed or otherwise. It will involve not only the government machinery, but also the ministers," said Dr Mahathir in the first monthly gathering for the Prime Minister's Department’s staff for 2020.
The Prime Minister stressed that the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030 must be rolled out effectively, adding that much work must be done by the government, which was chosen by the people.
"Personal feelings must be put aside to make sure all policies can be executed successfully. Granted, we work to earn a salary, but that is only one part (of a bigger picture).
"We must know how to make our policies and strategies successful. I am of the opinion that we must work harder and be sincere.
"The new year gives us a new start for such resolutions so that we will not be looked down on by others," he added.
Dr Mahathir said that the rakyat are the ones who award government positions and salaries – therefore, those in government must work towards Malaysia's success.
"They will thank us if their needs are met," said the Prime Minister.
Dr Mahathir also said that one should not resent the rich, because they contribute to the country by paying higher taxes.
"We need their money to pay our salaries and to develop this country," he said.
The Prime Minister added that he believes that if everyone, including the poor, continuously improves themselves and works hard, Malaysia could become a developed nation earlier than expected.
Dr Mahathir said the government is aware of the wealth gap between urban and rural areas, states and territories.
"We need a solid reception from the rakyat to ensure that our policies can be a success (to close these gaps)."
He also expressed his concern over poor Malaysians who refuse to be productive or make the effort to escape their poverty quagmire.
On this note, the Prime Minister urged civil servants to go to the poor and explain to them why they should not rely solely on subsidies to survive.
"We will introduce ways on how the poor can improve themselves, but they must be receptive and willing to learn. Malaysia practises a free economy which allows anyone who is willing to work (to improve their livelihood)," he said.
Dr Mahathir also said that Malaysia will continue to participate in making modern technology.
"We now have the means to build drones, and we will continue to undertake efforts to come up with sophisticated technologies so that Malaysia can become a modern and developed nation," he said.
The current administration, Dr Mahathir said, wants Malaysia to be on an equal footing with developed nations.
"This is the hope for our country. So, do have resolutions to this effect," he added.