MALAYSIAN PM: ANNOUNCEMENT ON NEW ECONOMIC MODEL BY END FEB 2010

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 23 (Bernama) -- The country's new economic model is expected
to be announced by Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak at the end of
February next year.

He said the new economic model will form the basis and direction of the
country's economy in the future.

"It is a comprehensive model as it does not only cover the economy but
encompasses all aspects of a nation's role.

"I will table it in February next year after it gets the approval of the
cabinet ministers," Najib said during the Media Night organised by the Finance
Ministry here Tueday.

Najib said he was given a briefing Tuesday by the members of the Economic
Advisory Council on the framework of the new economic model.

"I have given my agreement in principle for the new economic model. I also
wish to inform that the text will be prepared after this and it is expected to
take a month to be ready.

"Once ready, it will be presented to the cabinet ministers for approval and
subsequently according to plans, the country's new economic model will be
announced at the end of February," he said.

Najib who is also Finance Minister said the 2010 Budget, government
transformation programme and the new economic model will be the government's
priorities in driving the country's economic agenda towards a more better,
assured and a dynamic future.

Also present at the event were the Prime Minister's wife, Rosmah
Mansor, Second Finance Minister Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah and Treasury
Secretary General Dr Wan Abdul Aziz Wan Abdullah.

-- BERNAMA