Let’s look ahead to 2013

 

 

BE A GLOBAL FORCE: Malaysia’s standing in the world must be enhanced

AS the year draws to a close and with the Mayan prediction that the world would end on Dec 21 coming to nought, we have much to be thankful for. 

Overall, 2012 has been peaceful despite some attempts at causing disruptions.  

Malaysia is ranked third among Future Fifteen countries, according to Country Brand Index 2012-2013, the 8th edition of FutureBrand. Overall, Malaysia stands at number 36.

According to the report: "When it comes to economic reforms, investment and human capital, Malaysia is a state to be mirrored. With an emerging, multi-sector economy driven by exports and supported by a well-developed regulatory system, this Southeast Asian country, long known for its religious and social tolerance, has quickly climbed its way up the economic ladder. 

"This has helped transform Malaysia from a raw materials exporter into an industrialised country with a highly skilled workforce. 

"In addition to exports, the Malaysian government has capitalised on the country's unique terrain and animal life to support a thriving tourism sector. 

"Over 15 per cent of the world's species are found on the country's 127,000 square miles -- making it one of the most bio diverse areas in the world. 

"That said, industrialisation, deforestation and rural agriculture threaten this strength. 

"Building on its vast natural resources and commitment to economic openness, the government is investing in infrastructure and research and development as it pursues policies to encourage innovation within its workforce. 

"And finally, Malaysia's commitment to security has helped the nation create regional alliances -- particularly around piracy that could jeopardise shared trade routes as well as the livelihood of its residents." 

Of the six future drivers -- governance (7), investment (3), human capital (2), growth (8), sustainability (10) and influence (12) -- all scored a top 10 ranking except the last. 

Although it was pointed out that a high ranking in any one of these drivers may not guarantee a country's future success, a combined commitment across each of these elements can help empower it to meet its goal and become a global force. 

Influence, the final future driver, is by no means less important. It is regarded as closely linked to the Heritage and Culture dimensions where a nation's weight -- economic, political and cultural -- in the global community is assessed. 

This is a key measure of power and often determines global trends in investment, social attitudes, political policies and cultural preferences. Notably, Malaysia is amid the weakest among the Future Fifteen, with China scoring 1; Brazil 2 and India 3. 

Malaysia's best score is in the area of human capital (2), next to Iceland (1, but ranked lower in "influence" -- 22). Brazil is a close 4, China and India are 10 and 11 respectively. This, according to the report, means "Human Capital connects to the Quality of Life dimension".

"Citizenry plays a huge role in the establishment and maintenance of a cohesive national identity, and as such, a population's strength in education, productivity, health and happiness will undoubtedly impact its progress in the future.

"Human capital identifies the competencies, knowledge and values underpinning a nation's vision". 

In short, instead of being stressed out by the prediction of doomsday, or desperately trying to create one in the tussle for power, Malaysians will be better off enhancing its standing. Its "influence" on nations in the global community -- be it via economic, political and cultural channels -- cannot be underestimated.

But Malaysian identity, including social attitudes and cultural preferences for political policies, is one-dimensional and it cannot be compromised any longer.  

This is more so bearing in mind that Malaysia is among the poor performers in this aspect.

In this report, aspects of governance and investments are tied to a "value system" that includes the ability to effectively implement policies that protect its people and goals; and a strong, stable legal framework, balanced by enforcement mechanisms that are corruption-free and reliable. 

Similarly, investment is tied to the value system dimension and reflects a country's financial commitment to its future vision. 

By supporting infrastructure, education, healthcare, communications, technology and international partnership, a country asserts that it is ready to strengthen its brand.

Mindful of such demands, we look forward to the new year with greater commitment as we move another step towards the realisation of Wawasan 2020. Happy New Year!

- The writer is the vice-chancellor of the Albukhary International University