Nelson Benjamin
The Star
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak does not want local leaders to be emotional or parochial about Singaporeans investing in the state especially in Iskandar Malaysia.
He said relations with Singapore was getting better now and their investments here would be beneficial to Johor, Malaysia and Singapore.
“I hope branch leaders do not make statements that they do not like Singaporeans investing here.
“We must be consistent with our signals both from the top and bottom. What is the difference of an investor from the United States or Singapore? There is no difference actually.
“We cannot be carried away with emotions or be parochial as we must realise that we are in the 21st century and the country must be developed,” he said when opening the Complex Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat and Pulai Umno delegates meeting here Sunday.
“If we want Iskandar or Johor to be developed, then we have to be open as this will benefit not just us but also our investors,” he added.
Najib also stressed that loyalty and unity should be strengthened especially involving parliamentarians and assemblyman.
“Its like the present World Cup football. If the goalkeeper and the defenders have a problem, then the opponent will be able to score a goal.
“Likewise in Umno we need to be united and be able to get support from everyone, we only have to understand the aspirations and likes of not just the Malays but also the non-Malays,” he said.
Najib also expressed confidence that Johor would remain Umno and Barisan Nasional’s stronghold and called on Johor Umno leaders and members “to take care of Johor” and ensure the state remained a stronghold despite attempts by the opposition to gain a foothold in the state.
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/7/11/nation/20100711161056&sec=nation