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We must not forget that transformation from an e-Government to a Smart BRAND MALAYSIA : A
Government is essential for sustaining our economic growth, enhancing
our human resources, improving performance excellence and continuing SHOPPING CART OF PUBLIC
the climb towards global competitiveness. Malaysia’s competitiveness
ranking has improved by four places to 20th position out of 144 SERVICE DELIVERIES
economies in the Global Competitiveness Report 2014-2015, the highest
rung achieved by a Southeast Asian nation since 2006. Malaysia is also
ranked ahead of developed economies such as Austria, Australia, France
and South Korea.
irst and foremost, allow me to take this opportunity to thank the
As proud as we are, we are not going to be buoyed into a sense of Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA) for inviting me to the
complacency by these successes. They are in fact, a good reminder for FMRCA 22nd Anniversary & Crown Awards Banquet 2014. Twenty two
us to continue to shoulder our responsibilities and a call for us to rally years is a significant milestone for any association, and I am honoured to
our efforts to achieve greater progress for our country. The future belongs be a part of the celebrations.
to everyone, but only those who heed its call, speak its language and
explore its directions, will be able to get the best of it. Therefore, we have The theme for tonight, “The Hallmark of Triumph”, is indeed apt as it
to place the future at the hearts of our plans. recognises MRCA’s journey, and how far it has come since its humble
beginnings in 1992. I strongly believe that it proves that commitment,
The success of our country was not a product of mere chance, but a result strong leadership and passion can lead to accelerated growth for the
of self-development, knowledge and the ability to adapt to changes. Our greater good. It is remarkable that from an association founded by only
success is complemented by our yearning for excellence and our efforts a handful of passionate members, it has grown to more than 250 well-
in encouraging innovation. To move to the next level, let us take strategic known members over the course of 22 years. Of course, the success
and bold steps to innovate and enhance the existing service delivery of the association is not only due to its leadership, but also the tireless
systems, through the adoption of digital technologies. contribution and support from all of its members.

I believe NDC 2014 will once again re-establish Malaysia’s strong I am truly privileged to be here tonight to celebrate the success and
position in the Digital Government space and that participants will gain outstanding achievements of the MRCA members. It is also an honour
huge benefit from the insights and inputs from the renowned national and for me to meet so many well-known Malaysian household brand
international speakers. names gathered in this event. All of you have not only made significant
contributions to the growth of the Malaysian retail industry, but also
Last but not least, I take this opportunity to once again convey my represent the “best of the best” of Malaysian retailers in the international
appreciation and congratulations to JPA, INTAN, MAMPU, MDeC arena.
and FutureGov for their collaboration, and my best wishes to all the
participants of the National Digital Conference 2014. With over 60 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
derived from domestic consumption, the Wholesale and Retail Sector
is the fourth biggest contributor to the nation’s Gross National Income
(GNI) among the 12 National Key Economic Areas (NKEAs). It has also
contributed to a growing share of GDP in the past three years, contributing
RM100.6 billion in 2010, RM114.4 billion in 2011 and RM125 billion
in 2012.

Keynote Address at the National Digital Conference 2014.
9 October 2014, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

86 Humanising The Public Service : A Compilation of Speeches by the Chief Secretary to the Government 87