'Behind the name of Ismail Sabri', a story of PM's efforts to restore the country

A new documentary titled "Di Sebalik Nama Ismail Sabri" or "Behind the name of Ismail Sabri", aired by Astro Awani last night, tells of Ismail Sabri Yaakob's efforts and initiatives after being appointed as prime minister in August 2021. 

The Umno vice-president, who took over the country's administration from Muhyiddin Yassin, has had to navigate a number of tough issues including the continued threat of the Covid-19 pandemic to Malaysia's economic performance and the people's well-being. 

He was also forced to deal with political instability, further complicating efforts to put the country back on firm footing. 

Under his leadership, a temporary truce was declared with the opposition through the landmark memorandum of understanding signed with Pakatan Harapan in September 2021. 

The agreement gave Ismail and his Cabinet space to concentrate on restoring the economy and ensuring the country's continued progress towards the endemic phase. 

Other initiatives credited to Ismail include the Keluarga Malaysia concept, which aimed to put the focus not only on economic development but the people's well-being as well. 

The concept was meant to help put aside the people's differences and unite them in the face of challenges, as well as to realise the Vision of Shared Prosperity 2030.

His initiative to dignify the Malay language also came into focus when he became the first Malaysian prime minister to speak in the national language at the United Nations General Conference (UN) in New York.

The documentary also showed his efforts to make Malay the second language of the region. 

Ismail's administration also saw an increase in GDP growth from 5% in the first quarter to 8.9% in the second quarter and 14.2% in the third quarter – the highest achievement in Southeast Asia. 

The documentary also summarised his administration's efforts to deal with the issue of inflation and reduce unemployment, initiatives which also contributed to the increase in GDP.