Prime Minister Najib Razak wants the 1Malaysia concept to be translated into action and not be mere ceremonial in nature or just a conversation piece.

He said the concept must relate to people's lives in this country in line with the slogan, 'People First, Performance Now'.

"Acceptance for the 1Malaysia concept can be said to be at a high level and expansive but what we need is action," Najib said at a state-level 1Malaysia awareness programme for the Orang Asli community, at the Pos Betau resettlement scheme, near Kuala Lipis today.

He said the people wanted the 1Malaysia concept to be really relevant to their lives and to be treated equally regardless of their status when obtaining services from the government.

Earlier, in his speech at the event attended by about 7,000 people, he said the 1Malaysia concept was one that was fought for too by the country's previous prime ministers.

"I see this concept as one for us to see our country achieve its vision and for us to fulfil our aspirations," he added.

The prime minister said the objectives of the concept would easier be achieved if the people could strengthen national unity and integration.

Najib said a very important dimension in achieving the concept's goals was government service that must really mirror 1Malaysia.

"We must give the same treatment to all including the Orang Asli; there's no question of who is higher or lower in status than the other," he said.

Also present at the event was Pahang Menteri Besar Adnan Yaakob.

 

- Bernama