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In spite of the huge diversity in Malaysia in terms of religion, culture, race, ethnicity and so forth, we've really gone very far in developing this country.

Without doubt, Malaysia is the great economic star of the Muslim world.

If we can increase the share of Islamic finance for the world, countries can benefit - and certainly, Malaysia can benefit from that.

We can transform the government and the economy, as well as democracy, in Malaysia.

As the leader of Southeast Asia's oldest democracy, I am always keen to share our experiences. In the half-century since independence, we have found that steady reform is the best way to secure lasting stability. It is a process that continues in Malaysia to this day.

I would argue that Asean has been instrumental in driving both economic growth and political development, and that there can be no clearer example than its relations with Myanmar.

We are not facing great economic difficulties. The Indonesian people are faring reasonably well - just compare us to India or some other countries.

The vast majority of Malaysians are sensible people; they're moderates, they want peace, they want harmonious race relations at home. They look for national unity.

Malaysia is a country unlike any other: Full of promise and fragility. Its history, cultural and religious diversity make it a rich, compelling and surprising land.

It so happens, in Malaysia, the people who are in a way not doing as well constitute the majority of the people - the Bumiputeras.