Friday, April 24, 2015

Najib: Younger generation should be given space to achieve Vision 2020

The younger generation needs to be given the space to decide on their own on how to fulfil Vision 2020, said Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

Without singling out any particular individual, the Prime Minister narrated his experience in "letting his daughter go" when she got married recently.

"As a parent, it is hard for me to let go of my daughter even though she is now an adult.

"But when the time comes, I will still have to let her go, with a heavy heart, so she can lead her life independently," Najib said in an audio speech posted on his website, Friday.

He said Vision 2020 was mooted by former leaders for the well-being of the future generation and that they should be given the platform to materalise this mission.

"This younger generation are able to handle the ups and downs and overcoming obstacles because they are now more mature and resilient," he said.

Najib added that the younger generation should respect the advice and views of the elders who have had life experiences, but elders should also consider how times had changed.

"Sometimes the elders are unhappy with how much youngsters have changed since their time, and whether the decision is wrong or right. Ultimately, it all boils down to the individual.

"It is normal for elders to be protective of youngsters. But when the time comes to let go of them, then let them go," he said.

Vision 2020 was mooted by former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in 1991, aimed at making Malaysia a developed nation by 2020.

"By 2020, I think we will have the per capita income, but we will not be a developed country," Dr Mahathir was reported as saying at the World Bloggers and Social Media Summit on Thursday.

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