MELAKA, Aug 7 (Bernama) -- Differences in the political parties governing the Federal and state governments should not stand in the way of friendship and cooperation between them, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
He said close ties and cooperation were essential to ensure the people continued to benefit from government initiatives.
“Our system of government requires close cooperation. We may have differing views and belong to different political parties, but these differences should not hinder friendship, goodwill and cooperation that directly benefit the people.
“That is why I would like to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude for the warm welcome in Melaka and the close cooperation extended by the Melaka state government and the Melaka Historic City Council (MBMB).
“We hope that our aspiration to create a sustainable landscape in line with the Malaysia MADANI concept will be translated into action and produce tangible results in the near future,” he said.
He said this when officiating at the National Landscape Day celebration, themed ‘Landskap Lestari, Malaysia MADANI’ (Sustainable Landscape, Malaysia MADANI) at the Hang Jebat Stadium in Krubong here tonight.
Also present were Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
Meanwhile, Anwar said national development planning should take into account places frequented by the public, including the cleanliness of food stalls.
He said the relevant authorities should allocate dedicated funding for such efforts instead of focusing solely on mega projects that largely benefit higher-income groups.
“Yes, we are known for our impressive landmarks, but we must not forget that the majority of Malaysians do not dine at five-star restaurants. In Kuala Lumpur, about 80 per cent of the people eat at hawker stalls, roadside eateries and small restaurants.
“How much attention do we give to beautifying and keeping these places clean? That is why I say development planning will fail if we do not strike the right balance,” he said.
The prime minister said development must be carried out in a balanced manner across all sectors to enhance the country's standing on the world stage.
-- BERNAMA