Practice of sharing best concept for Malaysia

He said the concept had long been practised in the country through power sharing since independence besides sharing of wealth which had enabled Malaysia to become a peaceful and progressive country.

"We also share celebrations...other races join together in celebrating the Chinese New Year. If we want to achieve our maximum potential, the concept (of sharing) which is unique to Malaysia must be maintained," he said at the Malaysia Chinese New Year Open House 2013 in Puchong near here Saturday night.

Najib also reminded the people that extremist tendencies or "choosing to go one's own way" cannot be practised in a multi-racial country.

The celebration which was attended by almost 50,000 people was also attended by the prime minsiter's wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor.

Commenting further on the concept of sharing, Najib said:

"If we are willing to share our success and stay united in facing all challenges and problems together, then Malaysia will become a successful country."

He said the Chinese community in the country were famous for being diligent and hard working which had led many of them to success.

However, he said the success was also due to the government's efforts in providing comfortable environment that enable them to create continuous success stories.

The prime minister also expressed hope that Malaysia would also create more success in this new lunar year.

"What captures my attention is that continuous development can only be achieved if we give more attention, have proper planning, focus and discipline," he said.

The prime minister said everything that had been done by the government over the past four years, including the Government Transformation Programme and Economic Transformation Programme, were proofs of systematic planning and focus towards success.

"Development cannot be achieved in a blink of an eye, it doesn't come easy...it begins with proper planning and a clear road map towards the future of the country," he said.

Najib also said that the Barisan Nasional (BN) government had created major success within the past four years.

"If the BN government had not progressed, had not given the chances, had not implemented the right policies... the people, no matter how hard working and business-savvy they are, will not succeed.