The Government and private sector are to be congratulated over their initiative to earmark certain zones in the country for special fast-track development. A prime example is the Iskandar Development region in Johor, and the Nusajaya mega-project within. The emphasis on industry, education, health-care, residential property and world-class leisure facilities is appropriate and commendable. This should also be applicable to other strategic areas cordoned off for growth, such as the northern triangle, and one in east Malaysia.

The initiative is also timely, as similar dynamic development is going full steam ahead in China, Dubai and India, among others. Competition is going to be intense. Speed and proper implementation are of the essence. These specialized zones will play a major role in the progress of the nation towards Vision 2020.

However, there are some things that have to addressed. The success of such economic areas very much depends on the confidence of investors. Corporations and businessmen from the US, EU, Japan, S. Korea, China, India, the Middle East, ASEAN, and even our own pool of entrepreneurs will only put their money on the table if the environment and feeling is right. An image of a positive and liberal Government, free of red tape, corruption and other encumbrances will certainly go a long way in ensuring the viability of growth zones. Political stability, where we are one-up on others, has to be maintained.

In this light, it is worth mentioning that recent statements about the establishment of snoop squads to spy on couples, and chastity belts to protect the virtues of women are not at all helpful in portraying a good image on the country. It may not seem much, but the international media had a field day with these issues, not to mention the one where an elderly American couple were “caught” being together. Incidents such as these are fodder for sensational journalism, and defeat the Government’s aim to promote Malaysia as an investment haven in this modern world, let alone become a hub in certain fields. Even Muslim nations like Dubai and the United Arab Emirates radiate a more liberal and moderate glow.

We could all do without Talibanistic zealots who, in the belief that they are doing the community a favor, are actually performing quite the opposite. When investor confidence diminishes, it affects all Malaysians, regardless of religion.

Dato Dr. S. Vijayaratnam,
Vice President,
Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia.