Let me start by wishing all Malaysians a very Happy and Prosperous Chinese New Year of the Ox.
Let’s review the highlights of the Year of the Rat:
1. Americans have chosen a path of change, by electing their first African-American President. It gives us hope -no matter how small, for a more transparent and open engagement of an America with the rest of the world.
2. The global economy has succumbed to recession, and will continue to be in recession unless world leaders exercise responsible stewardship and cooperation on the international stage. Like it or not, this would require some changes in the current financial infrastructure and stresses the need for responsible regulation to avoid future moral hazards.
3.The Pakatan Rakyat’s continued success -from Permatang Pauh to Kuala Terengganu, and now to continued defections from the ruling coalition reaffirms the rakyat’s strength and trust. It also heightens the need for PR leaders to perform and continue to heed the voice of the masses.
Certainly, the next 12 months will not be easy. The rate of unemployment is rising faster than the powers that be will admit. Our budget deficit will only grow bigger, with a surely declining growth rate (that EVERYONE agrees with except the Deputy Prime Minister).
But I believe in us, I believe in Malaysians. And the first step begins with admitting the extent of harsh economic condition we will be in and moving on to fast, effective solutions to ensure any stimulus package reaches the targeted audiences at the right time through the proper channels with almost zero leakages.
PR leaders will work together with the government of the day, if they heed to the need to improve the rakyat’s plight by making the right decisions. United in truth.
Gong Xi Fa Cai to all!
