SANDAKAN: Malaysia requires a strong foundation built on development, unity, and stability to become a robust and progressive nation, says Barisan Nasional secretary-general Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir.
Speaking at the Sabah BN Convention commemorating BN's golden jubilee, he said that these three pillars had been central to its mission since its inception half a century ago.
"Our dream is to shape Malaysia into a greater nation, from the Peninsula to Sabah and Sarawak. To develop this country, we must have development politics, unity politics, and stability politics. These three elements are our foundation," he said.
Highlighting BN's significant role in Malaysia's development, transforming it from a once underdeveloped country to its current state of progress, Zambry said: "If anyone denies the contributions brought by BN all this time, they should review what has happened over the past 50 years, especially during BN's leadership of this country."
He pointed to notable projects like the Pan Borneo Highway and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) as examples of BN's achievements.
"In Sabah, for instance, the Pan Borneo Highway, which will be a 'game changer' in this state, was developed by BN. Additionally, the dream of Sabahans to have a university was also fulfilled by BN, and now Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) is a successful university," he added.
BN's commitment to national unity was underscored by its success in uniting Malaysia's diverse ethnic groups. With 13 parties in the coalition and Sabah hosting over 30 sub-ethnic groups, BN's inclusive approach was praised.
"In Sabah alone, for example, there are more than 30 sub-ethnic groups, as well as in the Peninsula and other places, but we have been able to unite because BN has the dream of building togetherness in our country," he said.
Zambry stressed the importance of political stability, cautioning against the potential chaos without it.
"There may be shortcomings, but we correct those shortcomings… that's how BN, which was built in 1974, operates," he said.
He urged BN members to reflect on past challenges and rebuild with confidence, adding that any obstacle can be overcome with determination.
Despite past setbacks, Zambry reassured supporters that BN remained committed to correcting past mistakes and revitalising its strength, particularly in Sabah.
"We rebuild the winning mentality, don't feel defeated by what happened. If we have confidence, we can overcome any obstacle," he said.n01zahid