KUALA LUMPUR – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the transformation of digital technology will only be sustainable if it benefits the entire population.
In line with the Malaysia Madani concept, he said the country’s sustainability hinges on ensuring that the changes implemented are inclusive and accessible to all citizens.
“If we want to achieve sustainability in the context of technological change or transformation, we must ensure that every citizen in this country is afforded an opportunity,” he said.
“This extends beyond simply implementing 5G technology. It’s about guaranteeing that every citizen – whether in urban slums, impoverished urban areas, or remote regions in Sabah and Sarawak – has access and connectivity.”
He said this during the closing ceremony of the Malaysia ICT Summit 2023, here, this evening.
The event was also attended by the Communications and Digital minister Fahmi Fadzil, and Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) chairman, Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din.
Anwar stressed that sustainability should not be geared toward benefiting a select few urban elites or ruling groups.
“Sustainability means valuing all our people and providing them with benefits. That’s why we reject views that exploit racial issues,” he said.
“While the constitution protects the Malays and Bumiputeras in this country, we must also ensure that every Malay, Chinese, Indian, and person from Sabah and Sarawak is entitled to their rights to live in this nation.”
The prime minister underscored that digital transformation necessitates fresh thinking, new attitudes, and an openness to both learn and share knowledge.
“In a recent cabinet session, I reiterated the importance of recognizing our potential. During a working visit to New York, I felt that potential investors are eager to invest in Malaysia,” Anwar said.
“However, our response must be apt, not only through digital transformation but also by ensuring a conducive business environment, aided by transparent policies. This is why we introduced the Madani economy initiative,” he said. – September 27, 2023