SHAH ALAM: The establishment of Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) as an institution of higher learning to assist the Malays in the country must be viewed in a deeper context.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this includes the issues and challenges faced by the Malays related to the education system in the past.
He added that if the context of poverty among the Malays was to be examined, as highlighted and expanded upon by the distinguished linguist Tan Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, it was was not solely about wealth and money but also encompassed education, perspective and aspirations.
"We cannot shy away from the reality that the Malays and Bumiputera need to be supported with more advanced solutions, as the majority of them come from the most disadvantaged segments of society.
"(But) it is because of this historical backwardness and poverty that UiTM remains relevant today.
"This is where UiTM plays a crucial role in advancing the education of these two communities, enabling them to stand independently and create value in the economy.
"Thus, this evening is not only about celebrating UiTM's achievements as a university but also about inspiring all of us to continue this academic journey with an eye to the future, seizing opportunities to ensure that this institution for Malays and Bumiputera can achieve even greater successes," he said.
Anwar said this in a speech for UiTM's 25th anniversary dinner delivered by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Present to grace the event were the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah and Tengku Permaisuri Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, who is also UiTM's pro-chancellor.
Other guests included Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud and UiTM vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Dr Shahrin Sahib.
Anwar also said UiTM has successfully fulfilled its vision and mission to uplift the Malay and Bumiputera communities.
He added that the growth of the Malay and Bumiputera middle class has helped to bring about a shift in human and cultural capital, producing individuals who are trustworthy, honest, humble and filled with integrity, in line with the Malaysia Madani effort.
However, Anwar stressed that the Malays and Bumiputera must not become too comfortable or complacent with their achievements.
"We will soon celebrate the 67th Independence Day in just a few days and whether we realise it or not, our country's independence has now spanned over half a century.
"With the strength of the Malay and Bumiputera as its foundation, UiTM places great emphasis on the meaning of independence, particularly in defending and upholding the educational rights of our people, ensuring they continue to be safeguarded and championed.
"Nonetheless, we must not become too comfortable with our achievements as the prosperity we enjoy today was not achieved by luck or coincidence but through the sincere, consistent and humble efforts of all parties to build this country together.
"Let us not become complacent or negligent... instead, let us embrace the spirit of independence with full earnestness and strengthen our efforts in leading the academic journey to make Malaysia a nation of high standing."