1Malaysia is not a copy, says PM

By The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: The Prime Minister has expressed regret over allegations of 1Malaysia being a copy of a concept adopted by another country.

Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said 1Malaysia was Malaysia’s own creation.

“There is nowhere in the world that has 1Malaysia, People’s First, Performance Now.

“We move forward based on reality not based on dreams or try to trade on something that is unrealistic.

“It is easy to make a political promise,” he said after officiating Cuepacs’ 25th convention Tuesday.

Najib said the government was a responsible government, which formulated policies based on realities.

On bonuses for civil servants, Najib said any payments would depend on the country’s economic situation.

“The government must be realistic and not spend more than it earns.

“We cannot borrow to pay civil servant salaries or else we will end up being ruled by the IMF (International Monetary Fund).

“What is the use of being independent when our sovereignty is ruled by an international body like IMF?” he said.