The New Economic Model (NEM) does not include any special mechanism to protect the Malays and bumiputera as yet, Second Finance Minister Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah said today.

"We have had discussions about the NEM recently and we have yet to (come out with) a mechanism to ensure that the Malays can protect themselves in terms of economic growth," he said.

However, Ahmad Husni assured that no group would be left behind.

Ahmad Husni said the National Economic Advisory Council will submit the NEM framework to the premier soon before it is displayed to the public for feedback.

He said those who are unhappy with the NEAC report can voice out their concerns and the government will consider it for the final NEM draft.

"When we display (the report), (all) parties will give their views. Based on this, we will come out with the NEM," he said after a function in Kuala Lumpur today.

The NEM draft will be unveiled on March 30 at the Invest Malaysia Conference and the final version will be announced in June in conjunction with the 10th Malaysia Plan.

'Racist speech'

There is concern among some Malay groups that the NEM would further liberalise the economy and the community will be left behind.

Among the loudest critic of the NEM is Perkasa, led by Pasir Mas MP Ibrahim Ali, who is advocating for affirmative action for Bumiputeras under the 1971 New Economic Policy to remain.

Ahmad Husni assured that Bumiputera interest will be looked after because their special privileges are enshrined under Federal Constitution.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Husni refused to comment on the police reports lodged against him in Penang for allegedly uttering racist remarks during his speech at a dinner organised by the Penang Malay Chamber of Commerce a week ago.

"No. We won't discuss it. There is no point. We must move forward," he said before quickly leaving the scene.

According to the police report lodged by Komtar assemblyperson Ng Wei Aik, Ahmad Husni allegedly said: "'If the Penang Chinese bullies us, we will retaliate against the Chinese."

A recording of Ahmad Husni's speech was also appended to the police report.