After 68 years of Merdeka (gaining independence), Malaysia still stands at a crossroads.
We can either move forward as a united, progressive country or remain trapped in racial and religious divisions that hinder national progress.
If we are serious about advancing, we must confront these issues and focus on policies that benefit all citizens rather than waste resources on identity politics.
While this Madani government has implemented the 3R – race, religion, and royalty – policy, more substantive and tangible actions are needed.
For too long, Malaysia’s political landscape has been dominated by racial and religious rhetoric. Political parties, policymakers, and even segments of society have used these issues as tools to gain influence.
As a result, much of our national discourse revolves around identity politics instead of tackling real socio-economic and governance challenges.
Malaysia’s overemphasis on racial and religious identity in policymaking has led to several negative consequences.
Firstly, identity politics hinder economic reforms, education, and social welfare, delaying solutions to inequality, unemployment, and public service quality while weakening national competitiveness.
When governance focuses more on identity politics than on solving actual problems, there will be policy paralysis and stagnation.
Secondly, a significant portion of government resources is spent on maintaining racial and religious exclusivity in policies rather than directing aid to those who need it most.
Programmes should be implemented based on needs-based economic assistance rather than ethnicity. This approach would not only prevent resentment but also allow Malaysia to utilise its full economic potential.
By ensuring that opportunities are distributed based on merit and necessity, we can build a more efficient and competitive economy. The Madani government can implement this approach through its compassion value.
Thirdly, talented Malaysians who feel excluded due to race-based policies often leave the country in search of better opportunities. This ongoing brain drain deprives Malaysia of skilled professionals, weakening our competitiveness in key industries such as technology, medicine, and research.
If we want to retain our best talents, we must foster an environment that values merit and equal opportunity over racial considerations.
Also, when Malaysians continue to see themselves primarily through racial and religious lenses, it weakens the national identity. Instead of embracing our diversity as a strength, we remain stuck in an “us vs them” mentality.
It is obvious that a nation divided along racial and religious lines cannot progress. Our priority should be to build a shared sense of belonging where all Malaysians feel equally valued.
We must confront racial and religious distractions to progress as a united nation. If we continue to focus on identity politics instead of real issues, we risk stagnation while other countries advance.
The following measures ought to be implemented on an urgent basis:
1. Education reform for national unity
Our education system appears to reinforce divisions rather than unity. Schools should:
- Promote a shared Malaysian identity rather than emphasising differences.
- Teach history that includes contributions from all ethnic groups.
- Encourage critical thinking to counter divisive narratives.
- Integrate students of different backgrounds instead of maintaining separate school systems.
- Ensure language and religious studies foster understanding, not segregation.
- An inclusive education system builds a generation that sees beyond race and religion.
2. Merit-based economic and social policies
Policies should be based on need, not race. Many Malaysians struggle with poverty, and race-based policies often exclude those who need help the most.
Shifting to merit-based scholarships, business grants, and job opportunities will ensure fairness and economic growth. A system that rewards talent and hard work strengthens the nation as a whole.
3. Responsible leadership
Leaders and politicians must stop exploiting racial and religious sentiments for political gain. Instead, they should:
- Support policies that benefit all Malaysians.
- Reject racial provocations and hate speech.
- Encourage open, respectful discussions on cultural and religious issues.
- Ensure religious institutions focus on moral guidance, not become tools of politics.
- A responsible leadership approach fosters trust and cooperation.
4. Strengthening institutions for justice
The judiciary, law enforcement, and public services must operate fairly, free from racial or religious bias.
Strict action must be taken against religious or racial hate speech, regardless of the offender’s status – political or religious. Peace, sanity, unity, and harmony are essential.
5. Changing public mindset
No government policy can change attitudes alone. Malaysians must also take responsibility.
Reject racial and religious extremism. Support media and influencers who promote unity. Engage in inter-community interactions to break racial and religious silos.
A mindset shift requires continuous effort. Only by fostering open-mindedness and mutual respect can we achieve true unity.
The future we must choose
Malaysia cannot afford to remain trapped in racial and religious conflicts while other nations advance.
We must ask ourselves: Do we want a future where our children still debate race and religion, or do we want them to thrive in a just and progressive society?
Malaysia has the talent and resources to succeed. What we need is the political will and societal commitment to move beyond outdated divisions.
It is time to focus on a united Malaysia that uplifts all its citizens. Only then can we truly progress as a nation.
The views expressed here are the personal opinion of the writer and do not necessarily represent that of Twentytwo13.
