KUALA LUMPUR: Tan Sri T.C Goh, President of The Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong) has hoped that, amidst the ever-changing global landscape and domestic challenges to racial and religious harmony,
the Unity Government will continue to implement people-oriented policies, maintain internal stability, address external challenges, unite the nation, and work hand in hand to overcome these challenges.
He acknowledged that, while Malaysia is expected to continue to enjoy relative peace and stability in the New Year, the rise of racial and religious extremism remains a concern.
“Certain opportunistic politicians deliberately exploit and manipulate such issues, provoking unnecessary disputes and even fabricating conflicts. This deeply pains the majority of Malaysians who cherish national independence, peace, and social harmony.
“We hope the government will take a stronger stand and decisive actions to completely eliminate irresponsible parties who incite or exploit issues involving race, religion, and royalty (“3R issues”), in order to safeguard the Federal Constitution and promote Malaysia’s diverse and multicultural identity,” he empathically urged this in his message issued in conjunction with the ‘Year of the Snake’ Lunar New Year celebrations which starts on this coming Wednesday, 29 January.
He also sincerely hopes that the Chinese community, Chinese organizations will continue to give their full support to Huazong, continue to uphold the noble spirit of unity, seek common ground while respecting differences, and complement each other in mutual growth.
“By working with the government, we can together usher in a prosperous era,” he asserted.
Goh who is also President of The Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah (FCAS) went on to note that this year marks the second Lunar New Year celebrated under the leadership of Malaysia’s 10th Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who helms the “Unity Government.”
“However, times have changed. Despite ongoing debates in the political arena, Malaysia’s democratic process and political stability have significantly improved, with economic growth exceeding expectations and presenting a thriving outlook,” he said.
He said this was promising, especially with Malaysia assuming the ASEAN chairmanship this year.
“Leaders from ASEAN and major global powers will visit Malaysia for key summits and official state visits, placing our country under the international spotlight,” he said.
Goh believes having visited over 20 countries during his tenure, Prime Minister Anwar will also continue his dynamic diplomacy.
“His leadership has led to commitments of RM400 billion in foreign direct investments. Coupled with Malaysia’s inclusion as a new partner in the BRICS group and a series of “ASEAN effects” through agreements like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), we firmly believe that Malaysia’s international image and foreign investment prospects will surpass previous years,” he said.
He further noted that in the “Top 10 Global Leaders to Watch in 2025” published by The Straits Times on January 4, Prime Minister Anwar ranked third, following Donald Trump and Xi Jinping.
“His (Anwar’s) firm stance on Malaysia’s independence and neutrality—refusing to take sides—reinforces our hope and belief that Malaysia’s traditionally strong relationships with both China and the U.S. will continue to thrive,” he said.
On the global stage, while noting that the long-awaited Gaza ceasefire agreement has taken effect this year, Goh opines that fully resolving the military conflicts and tensions of the past 15 months will require ongoing efforts from all sides. Meanwhile, Russia’s military operations in Ukraine persist, and the instability in the Middle East continues. Adding to the uncertainties, the inauguration of Donald Trump as the new U.S. president this month, with his “America First” and unilateralist policies, is expected to bring unpredictable changes to U.S.-China relations, cross-strait relations, and even the South China Sea, attracting global attention.
He then noted that, following the Chinese characters of “涨” (pronounced “zhang”, which means “Rising” and “贵” (pronounced “gui” which means “Costly”) were chosen as the Chinese characters of the year for Malaysia, in the past two years, respectively, the Chinese character “升” (pronounced “sheng” which also means “Rising”) was chosen as Malaysia’s Word of the Year, in last year.
“While this word “sheng” may represent or reflect both positive and negative aspects, we sincerely hope that, with the arrival of the Golden Snake and the unity of Malaysians of all ethnic groups, the positive side will prevail, ushering in an era of peace, prosperity, and continuous progress,” he said.
He also extends his heartfelt New Year wishes to all Malaysians.
“May the Year of the Snake bring good fortune and success in all endeavors! Gong Xi! Gong Xi!” he wishes.-pr/BNN
