Butterworth: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasised that Malaysia will continue to propel its economic growth in tandem with the empowerment of culture, morals, and human values. He added that while technological advancements - including artificial intelligence (AI), digitalisation, and energy transition - were crucial, they must not come at the expense of human dignity.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stated, "We want to make progress (in the field) of economy, but we must also be culturally and morally advanced. We want to record advancements in AI, digitalisation and energy transition, but without losing our human values," during his speech at the 2025 Malaysia Day Celebration held at the PICCA-Butterworth Arena Convention Centre. The event, themed 'Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni', was also attended by Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib.
Anwar highlighted that a significant challenge for current leadership is ensuring economic growth through comprehensive reforms that uplift the people's well-being. He noted that Penang was among the earliest states to drive high-tech industries, which later expanded to the Kulim Hi-Tech in Kedah and the Kerian Integrated Green Industry Park (KIGIP) in Perak.
He further mentioned that Johor has emerged as a major economic player, especially in the electrical and electronics (E and E) sector. This success is attributed to federal government policies, including the implementation of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, making it the most successful state in attracting investments in the first quarter of this year.
Anwar also pointed out that Sarawak is emerging as a potential energy hub in Asia, focusing on green energy development and new high-tech fabrication industry investments. "Just imagine, 30 or 50 years ago, things were different. Today, Sarawak can compete with states in the Peninsula," he remarked.
Regarding Sabah, Anwar expressed confidence in its vast potential for growth. He believes that if the state's development remains on track and strong, coupled with sustained cooperation between the state and Federal governments, Sabah is expected to achieve the highest rate of economic growth by 2026.
The event also saw the presence of notable figures such as Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, representing Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, representing Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. This year's Malaysia Day was held in Penang, aligning with the tradition of rotating the event location among Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia annually.