In latest book Sultan Nazrin says M'sia must strive for inclusive development
Drawing from his passion for economics and history, Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, today launched his second book that charts the nation's growth over the last 150 years.
The sultan, in his speech, attributed Malaysia's growth over the years to its current state today to the collective contributions of all communities.
"It is a journey that demonstrates...
Drawing from his passion for economics and history, Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah (above), today launched his second book that charts the nation's growth over the last 150 years.
The sultan, in his speech, attributed Malaysia's growth over the years to its current state today to the collective contributions of all communities.
"It is a journey that demonstrates national perseverance, institutional changes, and, indeed, a long-term 'Striving for Inclusive Development'," he said, referencing the book's title "Striving for Including Development - From Pangkor to A Modern Malaysian State".
Drawing on primary data sources, archival documents and other research sources, the book traces the country's journey from the signing of the Pangkor Treaty in 1874, through the periods of foreign occupations and all the way to the present day.
It also covers the ups and downs in the country's economy from the early 1960s to the launch of the New Economic Policy in 1971, all the way to the emergence of a sizeable middle-class.
"From my childhood to the present, I have experienced how our country has evolved.
"Just as I have grown older - and I hope wiser - so too the country has modernised and globalised," he said, revealing that the book took almost two years to complete.
Beyond just facts and figures, Sultan Nazrin indicated that the 531-page title contained his personal observations and hopes for the future.
"I have seen how our people's fortunes have vacillated during economic cycles - though still, following an upward arc - and how the have, in general, shifted from agricultural-based rural lifestyles to prosperous, city-based lifestyles.
"Some challenges remain, however, and new ones have emerged," he said during the launch event at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
At the start of his speech, Sultan Nazrin also honoured the recent passings of two prominent historians - Khoo Kay Kim (above) and Shaharil Talib - describing the duo as "legends of the University of Malaya" during their lifetime.
"Both believed strongly in the value of inclusiveness.
"They greatly influenced my thinking over the years," said Sultan Nazrin, who was accompanied by his consort, Tuanku Zara Salim.
Also spotted at the event were various cabinet ministers and Attorney-General Tommy Thomas, while economist Prof Peter J Drake, and University of Cambridge centre of development studies director Ha-Joon Chang delivered the opening addresses.
Report this comment
Are you sure you want to delete this comment?
This action cannot be undone.