PORT DICKSON: Malaysians must appreciate and not take for granted the peace and stability enjoyed by the country, as they were achieved through the efforts of a strong government.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said without a strong government, it is possible that Malaysia would one day suffer the same fate which has befallen Syria, Iraq and the Rohingyas in Myanmar.
"We in Malaysia have never felt that we had to flee the country, as there is no war and our country is peaceful and harmonious.
“But let us not take the peace for granted, and continue to work hard to maintain the peace and stability," Zahid said while launching the Ekspresi Negaraku road show in Negri Sembilan.
He stressed that the government’s initiatives are not for the benefit of itself, but the country's future generations.
"That is why Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak launched the National Transformation 2050 (TN50), to get feedback from the younger generation on charting the future direction of the country.
"I will do my best to complement the efforts of our Prime Minister to propel the country to a higher level,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid added that as human beings, the country’s leaders have their weaknesses, but they are endeavouring to improve themselves, rather than being complacent.
"The opposition, on the other hand, points fingers at the government. But don't forget that the other four fingers are pointing back at themselves.
“They must also accept criticism, as they themselves are in disarray," he said.
Zahid said the 14th general elections are approaching, and the government will strive for every Malaysian, and not just deliver sweet rhetoric.
"The people want to know what the government is doing, and we will do our best for the people, as we want to achieve success,” he added.
Zahid said the people must also be thankful over the numerous achievements by the government, such as registering a strong gross domestic product growth, as well as achieving high international cash reserves – all of which are the result of hard work.