The highlight of the visit of the DAP delegation to China is undoubtedly the briefing and crossing of the six-lane Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge – a 55-kilometre (34 mi) bridge–tunnel system which is both the longest sea crossing and the longest fixed link on earth.

In our briefing, we were informed that the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (HZMB) was designed to last for 120 years and built with a cost of 126.9 billion yuan (US$ 18.77 billion).

The cost of constructing the Main Bridge was estimated at 51.1 billion yuan (US$ 7.56 billion) funded by bank loans and shared among the governments of China, Hong Kong and Macau.

During our eight-day visit, which covered Shandong, Jinan, Luoyang, Guanzou, Hong Kong and Shenzhen, we were particularly impressed by the drive and commitment of the Chinese people to greater achievements and excellence, as represented by HZMB, which is undoubtedly one of human miracles in the world.

The emphasis on human capital as the most important resource of the nation is worthy of emulation not only by Malaysia, but by all nations of the world.

In this connection, the announcement by the Prime Minister, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad to change the school syllabus to improve school-leavers’ employability will be one of greatest challenges for Malaysians in the new year.

The reform of the school curriculum so that national schools will teach everybody all the important subjects that will be useful for the students deserve the support of all Malaysians who want an assured and bright future for future generations.

It time for Malaysians, regardless of race or religion, to unite to make Malaysia great, instead of focussing on lies, fear and hate to divide Malaysians.

There is no reason why with a common dream and a shared vision, Malaysia cannot become a world top-class nation and a show-case to the world of a successful plural society.

(Media Statement by DAP MP for Iskandar Puteri Lim Kit Siang in Shenzhen on Sunday, December 23, 2018)