KUALA LUMPUR : The establishment of the World Bank office in Kuala Lumpur is a sign of confidence that Malaysia is one of the most favoured locations for international organisations and businesses in the region.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said Malaysia is now ready to take on a bigger role in the international arena, consistent with the social and economic development and progress that it had achieved over the past six decades.
"The office is to be a knowledge hub, bringing together Malaysia and World Bank Group experts in areas where we can share our rich experience of growth with other members of the bank, in particular developing economies.
"I am confident that the bank's presence here in Malaysia- with its international standing and expertise- will bring many benefits for us too. I am sure the new office is already engaging with local research institutions and thinks tanks.
"It will also provide opportunities for talented Malaysians through a programme which will have selected individuals from the public sector seconded there," said Najib before declaring the World Bank office open, here, today.
The office will also be a regional research hub which will focus in regional and global development policies.