In his new year message received here, he said these fruits had not come easy, adding that they were from the commitment of the nation's leaders with the people as they worked on a common vision.

Looking back,  he said 2007 had been an eventful year of achievements, joy and some unhappy incidents. 

"In joy, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of nationhood, sent the first astronaut to the space and many others."

He said there were also global fuel price hikes, disasters in the country and protests.

"Although there could be turbulent rides in our undertakings, what we as Malaysians are proud of is, we have the spirit of working together to pull through all trials and tribulations."

He said the people must realise from these efforts that they needed to surge forward as one, "and if there is any incident that blocks our progress, we must find a channel to trash our differences towards a win-win solution".

He said being Malaysians, they must also be willing to forgive and forget. "Work with the BN Government for a continued progress."

Tiong said shortly after ushering in the new year, the Chinese community would usher in the Year of the Rat. 

He wished the Chinese community another year of prosperity.

To the people of Bintulu, he thanked them for working with him in community and nation building.

"Thank you for working through the SPDP for a solidarity that is found only in the Barisan Nasional Government."

He said if there had been any occasion when he made them unhappy, he would work with them in the new year with a better understanding.

Foe any short-comings, he said he would always be ready to work towards a better efficiency.