KUALA LUMPUR, Aug. 26 -- Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad today said that Malaysia has made progress despite not achieving what was envisioned under Vision 2020 targets, by which Malaysia had aspired to become a developed nation.

Dr Mahathir said that the low cost of living and tax-free shopping destinations, as well as Malaysia's position as a major tourism destination in the region, are proof of the country's achievements.

"Next year, 2020, will be 'Visit Malaysia' year again. Well, as you know, we had fixed that 2020 should be the year we become a developed country. Unfortunately, we are not able to achieve that, but nevertheless, Malaysia has made tremendous progress, and there are many, many places now in Malaysia that are wo...