KUALA LUMPUR: Barisan Nasional will not be complacent over racial harmony but instead enhance inter-racial partnership to ensure Malaysia remains globally competitive, said MCA president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.
He acknowledged that there was an increasing number of extremists who encouraged the people to fight for causes that solely benefit their own race.
“These irresponsible parties try to portray Barisan’s efforts in promoting a moderate society as actions that are only carried out by the weak,” he said at a forum on “Maritime Silk Road: Taking Sino-Malaysian Relationship to New Heights” yesterday.
The forum, which was organised by the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce, also discussed about a 21st century maritime silk road to encourage trade between China and Asean countries.
According to Liow, the 1Malaysia Innovation Field framework that was launched by MCA in October last year served as a tool to fight such extremist views.
“The diversity in Malaysia is an assimilation of Chinese, Indian, Islamic and Nusantara civilisations. This diversity is a strength of Malaysia and should be used as a tool to face challenges in the new world,” he said.
Aptly named “Civilisation Magnet” in Chinese, the framework focuses on how Malaysia’s way in attracting diversity can become its strength and will be the main topic of discussion during the forum, which will be held in six sessions throughout the country.
Liow also urged companies present at the forum to improve their product and services to target international consumers.
“This forum will provide an opportunity for businesses to plan and find solutions to problems which may arise from an integrated economy in Asean,” he said.
On another note, Liow said the Department of Civil Aviation’s declaration that MH370 tragedy was an accident was done in accordance to the Chicago Convention and served to give family members of passengers and crew a sense of closure.
“It was not meant to upset the next of kin,” he told reporters.
Asked why family members were only informed of DCA’s decision at the eleventh hour, Liow cited communication problems.
“The next of kin committee and Malaysia Airlines should improve how they communicate with the family members,” he said.
-The Star
