Strategic foresight important toward achieving TN50 goals: Najib

PUTRAJAYA: The ability to postulate possible futures through strategic foresight is increasingly important toward achieving the goals of the National Transformation 2050 (TN50), says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak.
He said developed countries such as the United Kingdom, Finland and Singapore have adopted the horizon scanning and strategic foresight methodologies to ensure that their country's long-term plans were in line with their future needs.
In fact, he said Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa himself had spearheaded and encouraged the use of a scenario scanning methodology in the preparation of the national action plans.
He added that he was excited when the Public Service Department also adopted the foresight methodology in the preparation of its strategic plan with the cooperation of the Malaysian Foresight Institute (myForesight) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
"This shows the country's ability to apply science and technology to ensure wellbeing of the people and the country. Well done!" he said when chairing the National Science Council's (NSC) meeting, here today.
Furthermore, Najib said the launch of the first route of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) project on July 17 was also the success of the government in bringing about a landscape change not only in terms of national development, but also in a more modern public mobility which will be enjoyed by 1.2 million Malaysians.
"While we study the future and look for new economic and market opportunities, we must also ensure the impact on the people remains as a priority," he said.
The prime minister said three proposals presented at the meeting discussed the issues of tomorrows, namely the 4th Industrial Revolution, Future of Work and Cyber ??Security.
He said the ability to master the technologies, including exploiting and exploring disruptive technologies, was vital to transform the various national economic sectors through science and technology (STI) approaches.
"This is to ensure that the country will continue to move forward and will not be left out in the competition, which would affect national development and economy, as well as the wellbeing and security of the people," he said.
Najib also call for the Progressive Malaysia 2050 proposal discussed up at the recent Malaysian scientific community dialogue, to be presented at the upcoming NSC meeting.
He said he was also interested in the proposal which discussed the position and importance of science, technology and innovation in ensuring success of TN50's objectives and missions.
"It is vital for the country to use its own mould in drafting Malaysia 2050," he added. — Bernama