With great power comes great responsibility, says Dr M
Bernama
-December 3, 2018 10:55 AM=
Dr Mahathir Mohamad speaks at the monthly assembly with staff from the Prime Minister’s Department. (Bernama pic)PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad today reminded the government and members of the administration that the power bestowed on them is to allow them to perform their duties and not for their self-benefit or interest.
Speaking at the monthly assembly with the Prime Minister’s Department staff here today, he said if power was abused, the country would not progress. Instead, he said, this would cause a moral decline in society.
“That’s why we have to be careful when we do something using the power given to us.
“If we realise or feel unsure that the power may cause something not good to our country, it is better that we do not exercise that power and it is better that we discuss and get advice on how the power is to be exercised,” he added.
The prime minister said he wanted members of the administration to understand and be clear that the purpose of establishing a government is to ensure that the country becomes more progressive.
He said although the benefits of this might not immediately be seen, the establishment of a peaceful and prosperous country would be enjoyed by all people, including members of the administration.
He added that there should be peace and harmony in Malaysia so that the country’s wealth could be equally distributed to reduce the gap between urban and rural areas.
He said this could be achieved through good governance, without corruption or the intentional stirring up of chaos and racial animosity.
“When we have rioting problems and others, we have to handle them wisely,” he said, adding that the government wanted to see all Malaysians enjoying the country’s wealth and independence.
“It’s not our intention to hamper urban growth and wealth, but if the gap between the rich and the poor is too big, it will raise feelings of envy and hate.
“Because of that, there will be hostility between urban and rural areas, between the poor and the rich, even between one race and another,” he added.
