{
  "id": 10693351,
  "title": "Sept 29 designated Malaysian Professionals Day",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/29/sept-29-designated-malaysian-professionals-day",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-29T11:42:22.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/09/1544027/sept-29-designated-malaysian-professionals-day"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has approved September 29 as Malaysian Professionals Day. The decision was made as it is deemed beneficial for the nation, according to the prime minister. The Professionals Conference & Exhibition (Profex 2026) took place today, where the prime minister highlighted the crucial role of the professional class in national progress. He emphasized that the professional class, including political leaders and civil servants, must collaborate harmoniously. Anwar cited Spanish philosopher José Ortega y Gasset's concept of the \"barbarism of specialization\" and cautioned against an over-reliance on specialized viewpoints, warning that it could lead to a \"concrete jungle\" rather than a well-rounded society. He underscored that building a city involves more than just structures and concrete. The prime minister also drew parallels between various cultural and philosophical concepts, such as moderation in Islam, the Doctrine of the Mean in Confucianism, and the Golden Mean in Greek tradition, to reinforce the importance of a balanced approach. Anwar cautioned that professionals cannot evade responsibility for governance failures, citing past scandals like 1MDB, Tabung Haji, and Felda. He noted that while political leaders bear the primary responsibility, professionals must also take accountability. Many are aware of wrongdoing but remain silent, according to Anwar. He urged top professionals to speak up and contribute to governance beyond their specific fields. Anwar stated that no country can thrive if corruption is tolerated and promised to present proposals on engaging professionals to the Cabinet, entrusting the Balai Ikhtisas Malaysia to identify experts in areas like health, education, and information technology. He emphasized that ministers should not claim expertise in every area and should actively listen and evaluate.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has agreed to designate Sept 29 as Malaysian Professionals Day.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}