Malaysia is now at the threshold of becoming a developed nation from the continuous transformation implemented by the government, said Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin.

Speaking at the 2013 New Year Celebrations at Dataran Merdeka last night, he said besides the transformation carried out by the BN government under the leadership of Prime Minister Najib Razak, the success achieved was also blessed by the unity of the people of various races in the country.

NONEThus, Muhyiddin urged all citizens to maintain the solidarity, peace and prosperity enjoyed today as a platform to build on greater successes in future.

"As soon as the dawn of 2013 emerges, the countdown for us to achieve the developed nation status will only be seven more years.

"Insya-Allah, with the support of the people, with prayers and determination, we will continue to achieve success after success, we are going to determine our future together for greater prosperity in this beloved land of ours," Muhyiddin said.

Also present were his wife, Noorainee Abdul Rahman, Information, Communications and Culture Minister Rais Yatim and his wife, Masnah Rais and several other cabinet ministers.

Chart a new history in 2013

In the presence of about 130,000 people who had come to Dataran Merdeka, Muhyiddin prayed that Malaysia would remain peaceful.

He also hoped that Malaysia would continue to be a nation that would become a model for other countries.

"We pray that the year 2013 would chart a new history for Malaysia that would be more outstanding and together with the leadership of the prime minister, we will emerge as a developed nation by the year 2020.

"I pray that we will continue to be prosperous regardless of religion and race... to enter into agreement to uphold our country's sovereignty and independence.

"I pray that all of us will have a brilliant future," he said.

Muhyiddin said he was happy that all Malaysians could celebrate the new year in a joyous mood and the country could remain to be peaceful, prosperous and tranquil.

Before ending his speech, Muhyddin also delivered a poem which among others reflected his hopes of seeing Malaysians continuing to work hand in hand with the government to build a prosperous nation.

- Bernama