PUTRAJAYA: The Prime Minister has called on Malaysians to support national economic recovery efforts for Malaysia to remain on course for developed nation status.
Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob especially thanked the local Chinese community for coming together with people of other races under the spirit of the Malaysian Family.
“In the Year of the Tiger, the government aims to boost all efforts aimed at the well-being of the people and to ensure economic stability.
“These efforts are not just for this year. We want to ensure that Malaysians enjoy prosperity and growth for many years to come,” he said in his Chinese New Year message.
The Prime Minister said with the reopening of almost 90% of the economic sectors, and with social activities now allowed, the economy is on the right track to recovery.
This, he added, was supported by the nation’s high vaccination rate with almost all of Malaysia’s population having been inoculated.
“With this momentum, Gross Domestic Product is expected to record growth of between 5.5% and 6.5% in 2022. This is in line with growth projections by the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank for Malaysia at 6% and 5.8% respectively,” he said.
In extending his well wishes to the Chinese community, the Prime Minister said the festive occasion was for families to come together.
He said this year’s celebration would be extra meaningful as for the past two years, most had to spend the festive period apart from their families and loved ones due to the pandemic.
“This time, those celebrating can go back to join their parents and families. I hope the celebration will bring families together and strengthen our bonds,” he said.
The Prime Minister concluded his message with a reminder on the Covid-19 health guidelines in place.
“Please do not forget to maintain standard operating procedures (SOP) at all times so that we can continue to curb the spread of infections. May this year bring prosperity, happiness and good health to all Malaysians,” he said.