Malaysia

Change does not occur on the streets, says Najib

By Mohd Farhan Darwis
July 07, 2012

Najib said those who opposed the government should do so politely in order to be heard. — File picSHAH ALAM, July 7 — Street demonstrations will not bring change or bolster democracy, Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today, warning that these may even ruin a country.

“Certain parties are trying to destroy a country though street rallies. Change will not occur through street demonstrations,” he said today in his opening address during the Malaysia Young Thinkers Convention here.

“Demonstrations will not strengthen democracy. That’s ‘democrazy’,” he added.

Najib urged those who disagreed with government policies to voice their discontent through “proper channels”.

“This democrazy will not bring benefit to the country. If you disagree with us, channel your discontent politely and well, so the government can listen,” he said to the 2,000 strong crowd.

He added Malaysia was on the right track to achieving a developed nation status.

“Don’t think we are wrong. If not, we won’t be developing like this,” he said.

“We have a complete road map in achieving developed nation status, even developed nations do not have a road map like ours.

“This shows we are capable of governing.”

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