Tropicana July-August 2024 #155 The Merdeka Issue

TROPICANA LIFESTYLE
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In Malaysia, it's almost a tradition for new prime ministers to
introduce a fresh slogan early in their tenure. These slogans are
not just catchy phrases; they guide government policies, set the
administration apart from its predecessors, and convey their vision
for addressing current and future challenges. Earlier this year on
19 January 2024, Prime Minister YAB Dato' Seri Anwar Bin Ibrahim
launched the Malaysia Madani, or Civil Malaysia, slogan.
Before YAB Dato' Seri Anwar Bin Ibrahim, previous prime
ministers also had their unique slogans. YB Dato' Seri Ismail
Sabri Yaakob, the ninth prime minister, introduced Keluarga
Malaysia (Malaysian Family), urging people to uphold family
values, set aside differences, and face challenges unitedly.
Before him, YB Tan Seri Muhyiddin Yassin introduced Malaysia
Prihatin (Caring Government) during the COVID-19 pandemic,
focusing on government concern for people's welfare and wellbeing.
He also announced a RM15 billion economic assistance
package in January 2021 to mitigate the pandemic's impact.
YB Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, when leading the Pakatan
Harapan coalition to victory in 2018, introduced Malaysia Baharu
(New Malaysia), promoting a new era of unity and harmony. In
2009, YB Dato' Seri Najib Razak, introduced 1Malaysia with the
slogan 'Rakyat didahulukan, Pencapaian diutamakan' (People
first, Priorities achieved), which became his guide for his
premiership to re-orient Malaysia toward a new direction geared
towards greater unity and success.
The Malaysia Madani slogan under YAB Dato' Seri Anwar Bin
Ibrahim focuses on transforming Malaysia into a nation that
values humanity and embraces good governance. Madani,
which is also an Arabic word with the connotation of being
modern and civilised, is an acronym for sustainability,
prosperity, innovation, respect, trust, and compassion,
reflecting a comprehensive strategic framework to address
changes post-pandemic.
Anwar emphasises that development and growth should be
viewed through a humane economy, prioritising people's
needs over mere economic metrics. He advocates for a holistic
approach to development, balancing economic and material
growth with the country's humanity.
Anwar's vision also includes resetting Malaysia's direction
regarding race and religion. While maintaining the Malay
majority and emphasising Islamic principles, he ensures that
Malaysia remains a multi-racial nation where no one is left
behind.
As Anwar's administration rolls out its policies, it will be
interesting to see how the Malaysia Madani slogan shapes the
country's future, aiming for a more inclusive, democratic Malaysia
and we look forward to a better Malaysia that brings forth peace
and unity.