Chief Minister, Distinguished Guests, Thank you for giving me this chance to visit Kedah.
I know how close your state's links are with the United Kingdom and the special personal ties which Tuanku Haji Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan BadishakHis Royal Highness The Sultan has with Britain.
It was a particular pleasure for our people to welcome His Royal Highness when, as Agong, he made his state visit to Britain in 1974. We also know, of course, that among Kedah's many claims to fame, it is the home state of your distinguished Prime Minister, Dr. Mahathir. [end p1]
We in Britain are impressed with the bold and imaginative way in which your country has set about developing its natural resources. When completed, this dam will provide water storage and irrigation all year round. Its benefits will be felt over a wide area and will bring new opportunities and new prosperity to many people. It is an example of your commitment to the rural areas, and their importance in the life of this country.
I know, Chief Minister, how much this enterprise owes to you, both in your present post and earlier as State Councillor. I am delighted also that your Minister of Works and Public Utilities is here today, together with your former Chief Minister, whose efforts have been such an inspiration to all those concerned with this project.
Naturally I am pleased that a British company, [end p2] Balfour Beatty, have had such a large hand in it.
You chose well!
I see their work in many countries of the world and it is invariably excellent. And I am a firm believer in joint venture companies like the one you have set up here. The dam is, I believe, the first major construction for which the joint venture company has bid.
I wish the company continued success and hope that it will bring you further business and add to your prosperity.
For I have seen enough in my short visit to know [end p3] how exciting the future is in Malaysia. We in Britain hope that we can be partners in your development, in keeping with the aims of your New Economic Policy.
Being able to see this project at first hand will enable me the better to carry the message back home to our companies in Britain:
“Malaysia means success: if you can offer the best of technology, the most up to date equipment, the most exciting design, then you can share in that success”. [end p4]
I hope that message will be heard and heeded: and that the new spirit of enterprise which we are showing in Britain will respond to the challenge—as you are responding to challenges here in the state of Kedah. I am greatly heartened by what we can achieve together in an enterprise such as this.
Thank you, Chief Minister, for your hospitality and letting me see this impressive undertaking. I wish you and the people of your State happiness and prosperity.