We often talk about emulating China's strategy of "overtaking on a curve" by adopting advanced technologies to achieve leapfrog development. However, what Malaysia might truly need is to "shift gears to overtake." Our education system, government and private sector management must undergo transformative reforms. Our talent pool must not only possess the latest scientific knowledge and skills but also problem-solving, communication, innovation and empathy capabilities. With enough talent, the government can improve coordination and efficiency across departments and with local governments, ensuring policy consistency and smooth communication. Enterprises can then keep pace with the times, take risks and strengthen innovation and R&D. These changes cannot be realised with mere slogans or plans but require genuine determination and action.