KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 9): Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has credited much of Malaysia’s development and the creation of busineses to the first Chinese settlers in the country.

“There is no doubt that much of the development of Malaysia is due to the original Chinese citizens of Malaysia,” he said in a keynote address at the World Chinese Economic Forum (WCEF) here today.

“Malaysia fully appreciates the Chinese contribution to the development of Malaysia. Indeed, we feel that without them much of the development of Malaysia would be lagging somewhat behind.

“They have become Malaysian citizens and help in the development of this country.”

Mahathir pointed out that it is not easy to govern a multiracial country and maintain its stability as there could be conflicts between the different races. But in Malaysia, he said, people of different races have been able to work together in every field including politics.

“It is the cooperation between the three main races, together with 29 tribes that we have been able to turn around this country. Many people thought that nobody can overthrow the Government that has been in power for 61 years ever since Independence. But the coalition of Malay, Chinese and Indians has enabled us to do what is regarded as undoable.

“We have, on the 9th of May, overthrown the kleptocratic Government and reinstalled democracy,” he declared.

The WCEF returned to Malaysia to celebrate the 44th anniversary of Malaysia-China diplomatic relations, acting as a bridge for strengthening and building connectivity and business linkages between Southeast Asia, Europe and China.