Malaysia did not overwelcome Singapore Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew during his eight-day visit to the country, said Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak today.

lee kuan yew state visit to malaysia 110609 02 The prime minister said Lee was not accorded more than what he deserved.

"I don't think we gave him more than (what) he deserved," he was quoted as saying by Bernama .

He said this when answering a question on whether Malaysia had overwelcomed the minister mentor.

Najib said he did not think Lee wanted to interfere in the country's internal affairs when the latter made some comments.

"I don't think so...(that) he wanted to interfere. I think he knows that any suggestion that he is trying to interfere would be counter-productive.

"His visit was for a fact-finding tour of the situation in Malaysia. We allowed it," added the prime minister.

Najib's mentor and former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad had been highly critical of Lee's visit.

Efforts to discredit nation abroad

Meanwhile, Najib said there are efforts taken by certain parties to discredit the country abroad through the new media.

"Despite such efforts, I believe more people will know Malaysia and want to deal with us if we can show our successes to the extent that we have gained recognition.

"I notice that many of these people (foreigners), once they have come to Malaysia, they will know...then only can they appreciate (Malaysia) more. This will also raise their confidence level with regard to Malaysia.

"Efforts to discredit the country is done through the new media, but I'm certain that the efforts that we have taken can project the country's true image," he said.

Najib was speaking to reporters after delivering his keynote address at the Conference of Heads of Malaysian Missions Abroad in Putrajaya.

Asked on the international community's perception of Malaysia, Najib said Malaysia was seen as a modern and progressive nation and as an Islamic country that respected other religions.

"Malaysia is seen as a very good example and this is recognised by (United States) President (Barrack) Obama himself in his speech in Cairo recently," he said.

He said Malaysian diplomats would certainly face numerous challenges but he had full confidence in the Malaysian envoys.

"If they can arm themselves with all the knowledge and enhance their skills, I believe than can discharge their duties well and effectively," Najib said.

Concerned over flu outbreak

In another development, the prime minister also expressed concern over the closure of two schools in the Klang Valley after two pupils were tested positive for the influenza A (H1N1).

swine flu h1n1 flu pandemic school children wear mask "I am concerned actually, I am very, very concerned and I hope measures announced by the deputy prime minister (Muhyiddin Yassin) will bear fruit.

"I hope all quarters will give their cooperation as these steps were taken to prevent the spread of the disease which is easily transmitted.

"We must adhere to the advice of the health authorities to ensure the matter does not get out of hand,” he said.