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MALAYSIA’S development as a nation must be guided by empathy and compassion, ensuring that all citizens have access to healthcare and education, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
“The nation’s progress should not be measured solely by economic strength or physical development, but also by the well-being and dignity of its people,” he said.
Anwar added that the greatness of a nation is determined not only by technological advancement and skills but also by the human values and education that form the foundation of a Madani nation.
“In Islam, we call it karamah insaniah, or human dignity. This element of compassion and benevolence must always exist, especially in the field of medicine. This is why, in planning for the nation’s progress, the two largest budget allocations are always for education and healthcare.”
He spoke at the launch of the National Heart Institute (IJN) University College.
“With this university college, which lies at the heart of our agenda for national reform and development, the nation can truly rise and stand tall,” he said.
Also present were Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, and Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Anwar, who also serves as finance minister, stressed that economic success and efficiency must not come at the expense of fairness and social responsibility.
“The country cannot claim progress if it excludes any part of its population, whether by race, geography or poverty,” he said.
He acknowledged the challenges in achieving inclusivity, saying, “It is not easy, because many find it more convenient to speak about regions, ethnicity or positions, but we must remember that nation-building means developing all citizens.
“We must not allow any group to feel marginalised. That is why the cabinet discusses and seeks solutions.”
Highlighting recent efforts to expand educational opportunities, Anwar said, “As such, we recently added 1,500 new university places, considering not only matriculation students but also outstanding students from Form Six.
“For the coming years, I am confident that IJN will become a top choice for our young people, as it houses world-class expertise.”
He cited economist and political scientist Mancur Olson, noting that unjust economic systems could lead to continuous exploitation.
“Systems in healthcare, education and infrastructure must not burden the people, as injustice in these areas perpetuates inequality,” he said.
“If we are not careful, when decisions such as fuel prices or electricity tariffs benefit only the wealthy elite at the expense of the people, that plunder happens not once a year but every week, even every minute,” Anwar added.
He stressed that while profits and efficiency are important, companies must also care for their workers and the poor.
Recalling his tenure as finance minister in 1997, he mentioned the National Electricity Board, now Tenaga Nasional Bhd, which made RM400 million in profit in its first year after privatisation.
“I asked then, how are your workers? Do they receive fair treatment? What about their children’s education and housing? Why should the government bear that burden when the company is already making billions?”
Anwar said this reflects the Madani vision of a civil and compassionate society that values every worker, from top specialists to cleaners.
He also reminded students to appreciate everyone contributing to their education, including teachers, parents, cleaners and gardeners.
“I want Malaysia to be a nation that embodies compassion. As we advance in artificial intelligence, digital transformation and energy transition, we must ensure progress does not erode our humanity,” he said. - November 4, 2025
