IN 2014, let's think of ourselves as Malaysian & not as Malay, Chinese, Indian or KDM

Time and tide wait for no man. Another year has passed and as we look back to where we started  as a country, I am proud to say that we have come far, united as a nation, through thick and thin.

Festive seasons promote peace and goodwill in our multi-racial society, and this year is no different.

When we stand together as Malaysians, we stand proud. We support local personalities like Yuna, Lee Chong Wei, Nicol David and many other outstanding Malaysians who excel in their own fields.

What sets us apart from the rest of our neighboring countries is our ability to live together in harmony even though we sometimes disagree in our opinion due to our diverse culture and racial composition.

Therefore, I feel it my responsibility to carry a message of peace and unity in order for the country to step out of its racial stereotype.

It is time we no longer identify ourselves as Malays, Chinese, Indians, Kadazans or Ibans - we are Malaysians. As long as all of us work towards this common goal, there is always hope for a unified Malaysian identity, one that is beyond lip-service.

This theme, I know, is close to the hearts of all young Malaysians and we should all strive to make this purpose a reality.

There was a time in my life when I questioned myself what I could do to contribute towards the welfare of the people in Malaysia. I do not deny that much still needs to be done to drive our country into top gear.

With abundant resources and skill, Malaysia has the potential to rank among the best in Asia.

In the same breath, I would like to strongly urge young women to step up and claim responsibility in being part of the decision-making process. I envision confident women taking the reins to help shape the future. World trend encourages women empowerment and women should take this opportunity to solidify a united front.

Young Malaysians are the country’s future. If we equip our younger generation with good education and implement good policies, rest assured, our country will progress in leaps and bounds.

All these are possible. While the journey may still be full of obstacles and hurdles, I believe that we, as Malaysians are matured and strong enough to overcome them.

I look forward to a better 2014 and wish everyone a fruitful year ahead. Happy 2014!

YB Zuraida Kamaruddin

Member of Parliament for Ampang

Chief of Keadilan Women’s Wing