TOKYO – Malaysians should alter their mindset and free themselves from the racial and religious divisions that undermine unity, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking at a high tea on the sidelines of his ongoing official visit to Japan, Anwar told the Malaysian diaspora present that this shift was needed to ensure the country makes significant progress.
“Stop racial and religious enmity and use race and religion to strengthen relationships. Only then can we develop a new Malaysia that we can be proud of as an important and leading country in our region,” he said in his speech at the event held at the Imperial Hotel, here.
There were 416 attendees, ranging from students to those working and residing in Japan.
Also present at the event was Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, who took to the stage to address the attendees first.
Anwar and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail arrived later from the Imperial Palace where they had an audience with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.
The prime minister was also asked about the difficulties in renewing passports as they have to come to the embassy in Tokyo from other cities in Japan, and what Malaysia has done to address climate change.
Anwar replied he will look into the passport issue, while he said climate change is already being addressed, including through the National Energy Transition Roadmap.
To a question from a postgraduate student sponsored by the Public Service Department, that when they return home they see themselves overqualified and their salaries not commensurate with their qualifications, Anwar said things are really not that bad back home and that the government is also looking into ways to improve wages for all.
A Mara-sponsored student voiced his concern that students sent to Japan, among others to learn the Japanese culture and showcase the Malaysian culture, are now just going one way as many are opting to remain and work in Japan after finishing their studies.
Anwar replied that they are encouraged to work overseas, especially where they can learn the Japanese work culture, but should return and contribute to their country when the time comes. – December 18, 2023