Need for more ideators, creators and innovators in Malaysian economy - Nurul Izzah

GOVERNMENT-linked companies have played a pivotal role in kick starting and sustaining Malaysia’s industrialisation, and have worked hand-in-hand with the government to ensure key development goals. 

Nurul Izzah Anwar, who is co-head of the secretariat for the Advisory Committee to the finance minister said in Malaysia, many GLCs result from asserting Malaysian ownership over what were formerly colonialist-run organisations. 

"Today, however, I think we all agree our economy needs to upskill itself to meet the challenges of the 21st century. 

"Malaysia can’t only remain a centre for foreign investment-led manufacturing and needs to be more innovative. Malaysians can and are developing groundbreaking ideas and successfully delivering those ideas to market," she said. 

She was speaking at the annual Projek Amanat Negara organised by the United Kingdom and Eire (Ireland) Council for Malaysian Students (UKEC) at the Examination Schools of the University of Oxford recently.

"In short, we need to transform our economy and ourselves into more ideators, creators and innovators. This is how we will transform our economy from one that is reliant – and some say, too dependent – on global economic shifts," said Izzah. 

She said the government’s New Industrial Master Plan is a key framework towards this. 

"By 2030, the master plan seeks to diversify and move our economy up the ladder. There’s a role for everyone and a place for all in the NIMP and the Government’s Madani Economy. 

"In my current role, together with the entire secretariat, answerable to Tan Sri Hassan Marican, we are ever-ready to face the challenging economic climate, identifying mechanisms to close the gap for more holistic social protection.

"I’m especially heartened by the enthusiasm of our young Malaysian scholars here in the UK, and many working Malaysian professionals. Everyone hasn’t forgotten home and many want to contribute towards making Malaysia a better place to live, work, and prosper," she said. 

Izzah said they were working hard with the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Education Department at the Malaysian High Commission in the UK and other relevant government agencies to map clear pathways and opportunities for talented and committed Malaysian scholars to return home to serve and contribute to the Madani and NIMP2030 framework. 

"Your enthusiasm inspires me and helps keep my fire burning," she added. - The Vibes, February 6, 2024