I AM prepared to accept that, in terms of development, Malaysia has fallen behind Indonesia and Vietnam lately. Of course, we have always been behind Singapore.
But I was shocked when I discovered that we are also behind some African countries. We are not prepared to use the latest technology to achieve efficiency and limit corruption. We reject this technology because it may expose the wrongdoings of our MPs.
I was told that if we adopt this new technology, there would be loud protests from MPs. It would seem that many of them are involved in the export and import business.
So, the country continues to lose lots of money because we reject better ways of management. However, African countries are saving billions because their prudent management as using the new equipment is more efficient. They are already drawing ahead of us.
Of course, we need not feel ashamed about our country being overtaken by several African countries. Haven’t we been told that stealing Government money is not something we should feel ashamed about. If our boss does it, it is okay.
After all, the boss throws a few crumbs to us. That is how generous the boss is. We have shown our appreciation by supporting the party of the boss. They may shamelessly steal more money and give us some in appreciation. That’s okay.
So, don’t adopt the new technology because if may cause our lawmakers to lose money. Reject it. Let the country go bankrupt. It is only the country losing money. You don’t lose. It’s okay. – April 18, 2022
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is a former prime minister of Malaysia.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
