PUTRAJAYA: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim wants all quarters to put an end to endless discussions deemed as 'jumud' (ignorant) and 'lapuk' (backward), which will not serve any benefit towards the development of the country.
The Prime Minister stressed that focus should be given to accelerating digital technology development, exploring new knowledge as well as creating a pool of high-skilled work force among the youth in order for the country to move forward.
Malaysia, said Anwar, has great potential to become a strong nation in the eyes of the global community.
"Having said that, we must put an end to endless discussions that is 'jumud' and 'lapuk'. We will stand to gain nothing if there are still quarters who continue to spread hate.
"We are strong because we are excellent and not because we disparage against people of other races and religions as well as those considered as minority in the country.
"When we discuss an outstanding Malay, it is because leaders of the group are clean not only in terms of their behaviour but also culture, discipline and integrity and not because for 'memijak' (suppressing) and looking down to others," Anwar said in his speech at the 'Bicara Eksekutif Malaysia Madani' programme with civil servants here today.
Anwar added that at the same time, other races must accept the fact that the Malays are the 'teras' (foundation) of the country.
"The majority population are the Malays. Let us accept this fact with the spirit of unity, defend fairness at all cost and provide room to others," he said.
Anwar also said he has instructed all leaders in the government to attend training and courses to strengthen their skills and spirit.
He said all government leaders including himself must attend the training for them to reapply their spirit of determination and wisdom.
"I want to stress here again that we will not gain anything by insulting others unless we have great determination and wisdom.
"I want to drive home this point that apart from looking after our 'kampung' (areas and constituency), all of us -- including myself, ministers, the Chief Secretary to the Government, the Public Services Department director-general-- go and attend training to harness our knowledge and skills," he said.
Anwar said such training and courses should also be attended by the Inspector-General of Police.
"(By attending such a course) there will be unison not only in awareness but also mind-set."
Anwar also called on all ministers and members of parliament, departments heads as well as senior government officers to look after the welfare and livelihood of the people at the respective villages.
The Prime Minister, who is also the Tambun MP, said he himself will start doing so involving his village in Cheruk Tok Kun in Penang.