On 20 January 2009 (Tuesday), Institut Terjemahan Negara Malaysia (ITNM) launched yet another of its books, New Politics: Towards a Mature Malaysian Democracy, at the Putrajaya Shangri-La. The Deputy Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak, graciously launched the book written by Dato’ Saifuddin Abdullah, the Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development, before 450 guests, among whom were a former Chief Justice, Tun Abdul Hamid Mohamad, several deputy ministers, members of Parliament as well as local political practitioners and analysts.
The occasion commenced with the reading of du’a, followed by a speech by the Managing Director of ITNM, Encik Mohd Khair Ngadiron, to welcome the Deputy Prime Minister. He was honoured that the Deputy Prime Minister consented to launch ITNM’s latest publication. Dato’ Seri Najib, in his speech, declared his high regard for Dato’ Saifuddin’s perseverance in writing and producing a scholarly work in spite of the pressures of his responsibilities and the great demands on his time. Dato’ Seri Najib expressed his hope that there would be more such books by Malaysian politicians. He also urged ITNM to remain committed to publishing intellectual reading materials for the benefit of Malaysians.
On the day of its launch, New Politics, which was offered at a special discount of 20 per cent, was a sell-out with the guests. In addition to the discounted price of RM24, Dato’ Saifuddin was a factor contributing to the great demand for the book as guests gathered around him with their copies for his autograph.
This book is available in two languages (the English version is titled New Politics) and is priced at RM30 at the MPH in Mid Valley and Alamanda as well as selected bookshops nationwide.
