The 67th Merdeka celebration and Malaysia Day provide a new reflection in our quest as a nation to reflect, progress and chart new frontiers.

Malaysia’s economic development is a multi-faceted growth system that encompasses different fabrics of both socio-economic, technological and political advancement in an integrated spectrum that encompasses the different stages of timelines and growth realities.

This nation is built on the self-evident truths of mutual respect, values-based norms and harmonisation of common universal principles of justice, honesty, dignity and democracy.

The growth model is based on the quintessence of collective national unity and advancement where the future belongs to all Malaysians regardless of faith, gender, creed or political affiliation.

The cornerstone of this socio-economic future lies in a parallel and dual strategic need of high-impact technology and economic sectors and an equally relevant and sustainable model of societal growth and stability both in intrinsic humanistic development and principle-led knowledge advancement.

One cannot be at the expense of the other, and this concept is mirrored throughout the different phases of the country’s economic and societal development throughout the different phases and leaderships.

In elevating the approach of inclusivity, unity in diversity and upholding the thrust and sanctity of the constitutional monarchy system and the basis of the constitution, the subsequent national development policies are crafted to empower the dreams and opportunities of all Malaysians through eventual economic focus areas and transitions that are in accordance to technological, geopolitical and economic changes and demands.

The Madani concept

This is also reflected in the Madani concept, where the next transition for the country is reflected in a wholesome, holistic and inclusive approach where no one is left behind, and where progressive growth and development are balanced with the equal emphasis on values, principles, ethics and spiritual developments.

Growing the economic pie requires future-driven and comprehensive economic planning and implementation that will ensure both economic and domestic and external security and stability in facing current and future realities.

Malaysia’s growth has been facilitated by economic policies that are both pragmatic, inclusive and forward-looking.

Malaysia has not only diversified and transformed its fundamental economic pillars, but has also galvanised its existing strengths and taken the necessary reform measures to stand up to current demands and challenges, while remaining wary of the risks of stagnation.

We have shifted our economy away from an agriculture and commodities-led economic growth to one that is primarily based on the manufacturing and services sectors since our independence.

In a World Bank report, Malaysia stood out as a highly open economy, consistently maintaining a trade-to-GDP ratio exceeding 130 per cent since 2010, and this has played a vital role in maintaining a consistently low unemployment rate and elevating income growth, where roughly 40 per cent of jobs in Malaysia are associated with exports.

Malaysia embarked on an economic-diversification journey since the 1970s, and this process continues until now, with a different economic focus to diversify its economy in the 1970s.

In addressing the demands of the future in key critical economic reforms, manufacturing and high-impact sectors driven by high-end technological and digital drive remain pivotal, but a holistic, just, sustainable and equitable societal and humanistic growth remains equally pertinent.

This is where the Madani progressive development mantra comes into the picture in addressing the whole spectrum of inclusive and comprehensive growth that will see both the physical and spiritual growth and development, in getting all Malaysians on board in rising up to the challenges of tomorrow and in ensuring that no one is left behind in the progressive trajectory.

From humble beginnings, Malaysia has diversified its economy, harnessed its natural resources and achieved remarkable milestones and, today, stands tall as a sovereign nation, a testament to visionary leadership and unwavering determination in pursuit of prosperity.

Growing middle power in geopolitical, economic domains

Hence, Malaysia is on the right track in its socio-economic transition to position itself as the next major regional and global power in solidifying its presence as a growing middle power in both the geopolitical and economic domains.

What is politically right cannot be morally wrong and what is morally right cannot be politically wrong. With practices and policies that are just, equitable and holistic, and based on the elements of upholding good governance and social equilibrium and justice for all, the will, rights and welfare of the people will be further protected and upheld. This will ultimately pave the way for a new era of greater conscience, fostering a spirit of humanity that transcends racial, religious, cultural, gender and social status barriers, discrimination and differences.

The direction the future holds for the world and its inhabitants has been and will always be shaped by the collective will and strength of the people with the vision for the greater good, with alliances forged, friendships built, values shared, causes connected and the future envisioned.

Institutionalised framework of governance that is pillared on collective will and voices of the people shapes the future of the sustainability of resources, climate and development index.

National resilience, cohesion and sustainability remain the core pillar of a country’s survival and existence. In an age of digital and technological transformation with the onslaught of the effects of globalisation, the cohesion and infusion of shared understanding and coming together of the global community have never been stronger for centuries past.

A rising tide lifts all boats and with closer collaboration and understanding among the different parties and stakeholders, the higher education community and the general society will stand to benefit with an impactful effect on the global community as a whole, cutting across creed, gender, nationality, religions and other affiliations.

Universiti Malaya top flagbearer of Malaysia’s academic excellence

In Malaysia, Universiti Malaya remains the nation’s top flagbearer in carrying the honour of national pride and being the cornerstone of the country’s academic excellence.

This clarion call of duty and pride have been the epitome of the core vision of the university in being the ultimate national hope and symbol of academic eminence and in further amplifying our standing in the world.

With great conviction pillared on a mission-led and purpose-driven mantra, the university seeks to change the world and humanity for the better in the quest for glory and a new hope for mankind, with our tagline: Home of the Bright, Land of the Brave.

We remain at an exciting yet challenging crossroads, and it will require all of us as Malaysians to play our roles in steering our great nation forward with fervour, patriotism and love.

With great sincerity and unwavering intent, Universiti Malaya will continue to support and forge new pathways for the country’s future development and advancement in all relevant fields, fostering a new era of hope and progress for our great nation and the new generations.

For all the differing debates and narratives, Malaysia remains a nation that is well-aligned with the global and civilisational agenda of a future-driven growth outline, with a well-laid track of fixing gaps and identifying the right future demands and growth indicators.

The future of the country and the prospects of the new generations lie in our current unyielding Malaysian spirit of continuous improvement and our inclusive efforts of each of us in preserving the flame of unity, harmony, stability and growth in the true Malaysian spirit of Muhibbah and inclusivity.

-- BERNAMA

Professor Dato’ Seri Ir Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman is the Vice Chancellor of Universiti Malaya & Fellow, Academy of Sciences Malaysia