LANGKAWI: Former Prime Minister Dr Mahathir is still fighting for the poor Malays to stand up on their feet.
But for him, giving free cash money or free handout is not a good solution.
“My fight from the beginning until now is still the same, namely for the Malays to contrive and not to be left behind in their own country,” he said when attending an event organized here by the Ministry of Rural Development to appreciate the private companies that help the people of Langkawi.
“I appreciate the willingness of the private sector to help the people of Langkawi. There are many here who need help.
“But, we don’t just have to give money for free. Instead teach and provide skills for those who are left behind to try to generate income with the skills and training gained. Thus they can be more independent and not indebted to any party,” he said.
However, Dr Mahathir said he is ” grateful to the companies that are working to help develop and overcome this problem in Langkawi,” especially when this tourist island is facing the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.