COMMENT | Last week, Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi returned from a five-day lawatan sambil belajar to New Zealand.

It is nothing to be scoffed at because, by his admission, working visits or official visits are valuable opportunities to gain insights and discover areas not yet developed in Malaysia, which can then be explored.

Bernama quoted him as saying: “Sincerity and openness to feedback, and a willingness to learn from other countries should be prioritised, rather than being caught in a cycle of unconstructive criticism.

“If it’s good, ask your friends. If it’s not good, ask your enemies. Enemies are those who dislike us...whatever we do will never be good enough for them. But don’t be arrogant. Don’t be arrogant. Don’t be arrogant.”

Like previous Madani leaders who led rombongan (delegations) overseas, he did not