TANGKAK – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim underscored the importance of education as a foundation for integrity and national progress during his engagement with students and residents at Bukit Gambir, Tangkak, on 10 July 2026.
The programme, held under the Sentuhan Sahabat MADANI initiative, followed his earlier visit to Bukit Kayu Hitam-Sadao. Addressing the audience, the Prime Minister expressed his vision for education as a means of nurturing individuals who value truth, uphold morality, and demonstrate integrity.
He emphasised that while the Federal Government is advancing economic initiatives such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) to attract quality investments and create dignified employment opportunities, the long-term success of Johor and Malaysia depends on a generation that is both knowledgeable and trustworthy.
“Knowledge without morality will only destroy. Intelligence used to misappropriate trust, steal people’s money or incite hatred will only weaken the country,” he said, stressing that education must be coupled with ethical values.
The Prime Minister highlighted the MADANI Government’s commitment to strengthening governance and ensuring that public funds are channelled responsibly for the benefit of citizens. He noted that integrity in leadership is essential to maintaining public trust and safeguarding national progress.
Anwar also shared his aspirations for Johor’s youth, encouraging them to pursue knowledge and technology while remaining grounded in cultural traditions, language, and noble values. He urged students to balance ambition with humility, describing education as a vehicle for both personal growth and national advancement.
“I place my hope in the children of Johor to continue to dare to reach for the sky by pursuing their ideals, reaching for future knowledge and technology, but still remain firmly rooted in the earth by holding on to our language, culture, manners and noble values,” he added.
The Prime Minister’s remarks reflect a broader theme of the MADANI Government’s agenda, which seeks to combine economic development with social responsibility. By linking education to governance and integrity, he reinforced the message that Malaysia’s future prosperity depends not only on infrastructure and investment but also on the moral strength of its people.
Observers noted that the Prime Minister’s speech resonated with the audience, particularly students, who were encouraged to see education as more than academic achievement. His call for a generation that is wise, ethical, and capable of discerning between leaders who uphold integrity and those who erode trust was seen as a timely reminder of the values needed to sustain Malaysia’s progress.
The Sentuhan Sahabat MADANI programme in Bukit Gambir forms part of the government’s wider outreach efforts, aimed at engaging communities directly and fostering dialogue on national aspirations. By addressing both economic initiatives and moral responsibilities, the Prime Minister sought to highlight the interconnectedness of governance, education, and societal well-being.
He concluded with optimism, expressing confidence that Johor’s youth will play a pivotal role in shaping a future that is advanced, prosperous, and a source of pride for Malaysia.
