KUALA LUMPUR – In ushering in 2021, leaders across the country are expressing hope that the country will recover from the Covid-19 crisis recover for the well-being of all Malaysians.
Senior Minister cum Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said on Facebook that the construction sector is among the main contributors driving the economy hard hit by the pandemic, and prayed that 2021 will bring new hope to the country.
"Alhamdulillah, as we faced the challenge of Covid-19 this year, the way Malaysia and its leaders managed the pandemic, supported by Malaysians’ discipline and cooperation, it has received praise from other countries.
"Of course, utmost gratitude and honour is reserved for our heroes, the frontliners, who have sacrificed day and night to fight the scourge of Covid-19,” he said.
Meanwhile, Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob paid tribute to the sacrifices of frontliners who have given their all to ensure that Malaysians are kept safe from the pandemic, as well as the majority of Malaysians who complied with the standard operating procedures to curb the spread of the disease.
"I hope that 2021 brings renewed vigor, hope and spirit. May victory be ours. Happy New Year 2021,” said Ismail Sabri.
Senior (Economy) and International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali posted on Twitter that 2020 has been a trying year filled with unforeseen challenges, and hoped that Malaysians will show the same resilience in the year to come.
"The spread of Covid-19 has wrought a big change in our lifestyle and forced us to change the economic and social landscape to ensure that we succeed (in beating the virus),” he said.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein expressed hope that the spirit of unity that has become Malaysians' strength will overcome all challenges, including Covid-19, and spur efforts to build a better future for their children, families and the country.
"InsyaAllah, thanks to our tenacity, efforts and prayers, may 2021 be a better year,” he said.
Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin in a statement encouraged Malaysians to practise the new norms to preserve the environment and ensure prosperity for all.
"We have to show the world that Malaysia and its citizens have first-class mindsets and attitudes that prioritise cleanliness. This effort is in line with the National Cleanliness Policy to create a clean, sustainable and prosperous country through the practice of personal hygiene and cleanliness within the community and society,” she said.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Parliament and Law) Datuk Takiyuddin Hassan posted a prayer on Twitter for the country to remain peaceful, prosperous and harmonious in its own unique way, besides expressing hope that everyone will keep working hard to improve the country.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham Baba reminded Malaysians to bear the collective responsibility of breaking the Covid-19 chain of transmission, which is far from ending.
"(The year) 2020 was indeed challenging for us all. The Covid-19 pandemic has changed many things in life and we have to persevere with new norms.
"Let us all remember; together we look after each other. Everyone’s effort is required to break the Covid-19 chain. We must fight till we win!” he said.
Meanwhile, former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said Malaysians’ resolution for 2021 will be to fight to eliminate corruption, as it has burdened the citizens with increased costs.
"Happy New Year 2021, InsyaAllah our prayers will be answered," he said.
PKR president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim also said that 2020 has been a tough year for Malaysians throughout the country.
PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang said that the trials and tribulations of 2020 have helped bring Malaysians together.
"Let us turn all trials and challenges we have faced into useful lessons, and carve a brighter future for our country.” – Bernama, January 1, 2021
