"However, the extension of this time is necessary as, apart from the initial damage to viaduct 163, several other damages have been detected in nearby viaduct structures, namely viaducts 164 and 165, which require comprehensive repairs.

“Despite competing with each other, I emphasise that now is the best time, and there is a need for countries and companies in Southeast Asia to work together to ensure this is the Southeast Asian Century.

Amirudin also cautioned against the rise of extreme identity politics that could potentially ignite racial division within the state and country.

“If we increase our contribution from 0.4 per cent to 0.5 per cent to the national GDP, it would raise our share of contribution from 25 per cent to 26 per cent,” he told reporters after delivering his New Year’s resolution speech at the state secretariat here today.

“Kita gunakan mesin. Jika guna bom peledak, akan beri kesan kepada kejiranan di sekitar stadium. Jadi proses ambil masa kerana banyak kerja dilakukan,” katanya.