Moments ago, I had just tabled the Second Stimulus Package, otherwise known as the Mini-Budget, at Parliament. For the benefit of my fellow Malaysians, I have included here a summary of the package in the Learn section.

For many of you who have shared your thoughts and suggestions, thank you once again. Some of them have indeed been incorporated or included as a hybrid from your original ideas. Once again, I must ask everyone, as One Malaysia, to set aside our differences and work together in the same direction. Our collective effort and hard work will be pivotal in overcoming this economic hurdle and shaping a stronger nation.

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A full-page open letter published in The Star on Thursday caught my eye and compelled me to respond via this quick and short blog. I applaud the determination of one Anas Zubedy for making public his sentiments on the recent developments in Malaysian politics. His letter was not only fair, but clear in pointing out the real issues that we as a nation must focus on to move the country forward.

The intensity of the situation this past month has been widely covered in traditional and alternative media. Indeed, while politics is a necessary ingredient in building Malaysians a more ideal democratic country, I cannot say enough how truly disappointed I am in the unpleasant exchange that occurred in Parliament on Thursday. This latest incident only serves to highlight how important it is for policymakers to understand the underlying fundamental needs of the Rakyat, particularly in these economically challenging times. Our growth of 0.1% in the fourth quarter clearly has sent a signal of what is to come.

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Another holiday season draws upon us, as the Chinese community prepares to usher in the Lunar New Year of the Ox. This festive holiday will be spent visiting family and friends in pursuit of fostering a stronger and more harmonious Malaysia.

I have been told that the ox represents fortitude, hard work and pragmatism. These qualities are most suited for this year as each of us look ahead and take action during this challenging year. The qualities of the Ox year remind us that success is achieved solely through hard work and discipline. I urge all of us to come together in a year that is projected to be economically demanding. Let us strive for the well-being, economic liveability and harmony of the nation for this New Year. We must all play our roles to ensure that the economy is on track and stable while continuing the vibrancy of our commercial sectors and markets.

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