‘Malaysia Madani’ set to replace ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ Slogan

In 2009, Najib Razak introduced the 1Malaysia programme with the stated goal of promoting ethnic harmony, national unity, and efficient governance –– but this later drew mixed reactions from the public including criticism of the services of 1Malaysia clinics.

Our country’s latest slogan was ‘Keluarga Malaysia’ by caretaker PM Ismail Sabri Yaakob which promoted inclusivity, common ground, and contentment amongst citizens was also criticised by many Malaysians as it was considered to be propaganda.

After being elected to office last November 2022, Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim (DSAI) seems intent on introducing many reforms, and this now includes a new slogan ‘Malaysia Madani’ which translates as ‘Civilised Malaysia’. DSAI has been vocal about the issues that have plagued our country including rampant corruption, social disunity, and financial mismanagement.

On 17 January, DSAI led a Budget 2023 Dialogue Council themed ‘Membangun Malaysia Madani’ during which he mentioned that he would revamp the budget from all aspects, although he would look at suggestions from the previous version.

Institut Darul Ehsan (IDE) executive director Dato’ Ismail Yusop has said that ‘The Madani’ framework is an important set of values to live by and used as a guideline in the formation of a nation-state.

The 'Madani' framework, which is based on six holistic and interconnected components, is an important set of values to live by and used as a guideline in the formation of a nation-state.

These six values including sustainability, well-being, creativity and innovation, respect, confidence, and courtesy are highlighted in a book, ‘Developing a Madani Nation: Vision and Framework for Reform Policy' by DSAI which will be launched on 19 January.

The book will also include his political experience and the knowledge that he has garnered from reading widely that spans four decades from his time as a university student to leading a reformation movement.

National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, has also said that various interesting programmes that are in line with this concept will be drawn up in an effort to create a civilised society and boost the spirit of unity. The ministry will also include ways to counter incendiary content in social media in the framework of its programme.

He said, “The idea of the programme is to focus on freedom of speech, promote integrity, respect, care, and compassion in a bid to build a strong bond among Malaysians regardless of their ethnicities.”

No Additional Iconic Landmarks Under DSAI’s Tenure

DSAI, who is also the Finance Minister, has also stated that he has no intention of building new iconic landmarks during his tenure as existing ones such as the Tun Razak Exchange tower and Petronas Twin Towers are sufficient. Instead, Malaysia’s tenth prime minister has said that he will focus on improving the cleanliness of the city of KL.

He mentioned that the needs of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), hawkers, and stall operators should be looked into to help them in a challenging economic environment.

Image Credit: Instagram @anwaribrahim_my