KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi hopes 2025 will be a year of great progress that brings prosperity and wellbeing to the people and the nation.
In his New Year celebration speech, he expressed hope that the successes and positive changes achieved in 2024 would lead to even better results in the coming year.
"I am very proud and grateful for the successes we have achieved in 2024.
"There were many positive changes, particularly in enhancing the welfare of the people and the development of the nation.
"May 2025 bring all Malaysians even more success, prosperity and happiness. Thank you for your unwavering support. Happy new year!"
Zahid said the government remained committed to reducing the development gap between urban and rural areas, as all citizens deserved equal access to facilities and opportunities.
As rural and regional development minister, he vowed that the government would continue to prioritise the safety of citizens affected by floods and disasters.
"The government, through the National Disaster Management Agency and other agencies, is committed to minimising the risks of loss of life and property.
"I am confident that with the cooperation of all parties, we will achieve even greater success this coming year."
Reflecting on 2024's achievements, he said empowering Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and the development of the halal ecosystem were among the notable successes.
"The TVET and halal ecosystems are now more comprehensive.
"The Rural and Regional Development Ministry has made significant strides in ensuring more sustainable infrastructure development in rural areas.
"Improving basic facilities and creating more economic opportunities through initiatives involving local communities have been key priorities."