I join all Malaysian in congratulating Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on his appointment as Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister in the recent Cabinet reshuffle.  The reshuffle came as a surprise for many but, undoubtedly, it was meant to strengthen the Government to deal with the nation's multifarious political and economic issues.

The next general election must take place before April 2000.  As the country prepares itself to face the polls, The Government's major preoccupation is to win the hearts and minds of the people.  This entails a comprehensive review of the Government's policies and actions, making suitable changes to policies affecting the fundamental issues of nation building, social, economic and human development.

What is of utmost importance is the nation's economic recovery and maintainance of political stability as it moves into the next millenium.  Commenting on his appointment, Abdullah pledged to live up to expectations of the people and discharge his duties to the best of his ability.  What is most significant is the Deputy Prime Minister's statement that he will listen to and take note of comments from all quarters pertaining to his new duties.

As a former parliamentarian who knows Abdullah as a sincere and capable leader, I know he will discharge his duties to the best of his ability.  In my view, the real test of Abdullah's leadership ability is in pursuing policies to help preserve the stability and racial harmony in the country.  The task of achieving a united Malaysian race or Bangsa Malaysia is not an easy one.  It is fraught with many difficulties and challenges.

As someone who is committed to the nation, Abdullah can make a major contribution to realise the attainment of a nation of Bangsa Malaysia in thought and in action.  As Deputy Prime Minister, he should give greater emphasis to address the issue of poverty.  He should initiate moves to tackle and eradicate poverty in rural and urban areas.

As Home Minister, Abdullah should initiate measures to address problems and issues relating to the police and immigration departments.  He has set the proper pace to tackle the problems of his ministry by striving to ensure a people-friendly administration at the Home Ministry.  In this connection, the minister should have more dialogue sessions with various quarters to get feedback on which he can act upon.

Of utmost concern to me is the deteriorating drug problem - particularly that of the hard-core addicts who are a major contributory factor to crime.  The Government should address the issue with a multi-pronged approach covering treatment, rehabilitation, preventive education, family institution, moral and religious values.

Among measures that should be considered sgould include:

1.  Introducing a drug-free workplace Act to help prevent the abuse at the workplace and improve work productivity;
2.  Encouraging initiatives to help in treatment and rehabilitation by making available suitable land with the co-operation of state government at a nominal rate to enable private and non-government organisations to set up treatment and rehabilitation centres.