Oleh/By : DATO' SERI DR. MAHATHIR BIN MOHAMAD
Tempat/Venue : BUKIT DAMANSARA, KUALA LUMPUR
Tarikh/Date : 12/03/90
Tajuk/Title : THE ROYAL COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY
(MALAYSIAN BRANCH) LUNCHEON, AT THE
COMMONWEALTH HOUSE
Distinguished Guests;
Ladies and Gentlemen.
I would like to thank the Royal Commonwealth Society,
Malaysian Branch for inviting me to this luncheon to commem-
orate Commonwealth Day. I must say that it is indeed a
pleasure to be here amongst members of this society, many of
whom are luminaries in their own right and have over the
years made various contributions towards the progress and
well-being of our society.
2. Unlike some societies, whose propensity to engage in
activities is very much dependent upon the prospect of their
receiving some amount of publicity, this society, has over
the years, been carrying out it tasks quietly but effec-
tively. This is in no small measure, a positive reflection
of the commitment and dedication of its office-bearers and
members alike.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
3. This being Commonwealth Day, I think it would be quite
appropriate if I were to touch briefly on this family of na-
tions. It is indeed gratifying to note that the Common-
wealth of today has shed many of the negative traits of its
former self. Today, this grouping has initiated and adopted
many programmes of action which reflect the aspirations of
member countries, particularly the developing ones. We are
beginning to share many of the things that we collectively
possess. I also believe that perhaps it may not be long be-
fore we may be able to probably share the "common wealth"
that the Commonwealth has.
4. Though it is true that in the past the Commonwealth had
initiated various forms of cooperation for the benefit of
its members, most notably the Colombo Plan and the Common-
wealth Fund for Technical Cooperation, nevertheless over ma-
jor international economic and political issues, the
Commonwealth views were divergent and consequently ineffec-
tive. And more lamentable, was the indifference on the part
of some senior Commonwealth members to the pleas and cries
for understanding by the less fortunate members regarding
their problems.
5. Fortunately, this rather sad commentary on the then
state of the Commonwealth is no longer valid. Owing to
changing circumstances and attitudes including the growing
assertiveness amongst member countries, the grouping's more
prosperous partners have come to realise that they have a
moral responsibility to assist the less developed member na-
tions which, in case we forget, they once depended upon for
their wealth and power.
6. Malaysia is glad to note that due to this change in at-
titude, the Commonwealth has been transformed into a more
cohesive and dynamic grouping. When in its early days, the
Commonwealth was basically a forum in which the former colo-
nial master held discussions with its ex-colonies, today it
is an undeniable fact that the Commonwealth meeting is a
gathering of equals sharing common ideals and aspirations
over various matters. If I may say so, the decisions of the
Commonwealth are now of some importance outside the
organisation itself. And several countries even seem keen
to join it.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
7. The present day Commonwealth is now acknowledge as one
of the more successful international groupings. Malaysia
will continue to contribute to the Commonwealth and will
work closely with member countries for the common good. De-
spite being a small developing nation, Malaysia is prepared
to share her expertise and experience with member countries
of the Commonwealth as well as with those outside the group-
ing.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
8. I am confident that the Malaysian Branch of the Royal
Commonwealth Society will continue to carry out its activ-
ities aimed at a more effective role in fostering better
understanding. I wish the society and its members every
success in their endeavours.
Thank you.
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