We need to talk about race and religion

 

From Adnan D

In a world where race and ethnicity often dominate discussions, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sensitivity and potential for conflict these topics bring.

Yet, shying away from these conversations only hinders our intellectual and societal growth.

It’s crucial to address and dissect these issues, not to incite division, but to promote understanding and unity.

Although I understand why race, religion and royalty are considered taboo subjects in Malaysia, it reflects a certain immaturity in our societal discourse.

Avoiding discussions about race because they upset certain segments of society leads to intellectual and social stagnation. Growth comes from challenging discussions and confronting uncomfortable truths.

By not engaging in these conversations, we deny ourselves the opportunity to learn from one another and to progress as a collective.

However, this requires a level of education and critical thinking that, unfortunately, the current Malaysian public school system does not adequately provide.

A prevalent issue in race-related discussions is the sense of entitlement that some groups feel over others. This mindset is fundamentally flawed and rooted in ignorance.

Entitlement based on race is an outdated and harmful notion. In critical moments, such as during a blood transfusion or in life-and-death situations, the importance of race diminishes entirely. What matters is our shared humanity and the universal needs we all have. Does anyone ask for a halal certificate in a hospital emergency?

Religious texts themselves advocate for humanity first.

Short-sighted politicians often exploit racial and religious differences to further their agendas, causing immense harm to society.

This exploitation divides communities, fosters hatred and undermines the principles of kindness and compassion. While not all politicians engage in such destructive behaviour, a significant number do, and their actions can have long-lasting negative impacts.

Just watch the sitting of the Parliament in July 2024. I don’t have to say more.

In Malaysia, the intertwining of race, religion, and royalty is deeply rooted in the country’s history and politics. The Malaysian Constitution provides special privileges to the Bumiputera, which includes the Malays and indigenous people of Sabah and Sarawak.

These privileges encompass areas such as education, employment and business opportunities.

While these policies were originally intended to address economic disparities, they have also perpetuated a sense of entitlement among certain groups, leading to resentment and division.

Education plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions of race and fostering unity.

However, the Malaysian education system is often criticised for its lack of emphasis on critical thinking and its segregation along racial lines. National schools, attended predominantly by Malay students, emphasise Islamic studies and the Malay language, while vernacular schools cater to the Chinese and Indian communities. This segregation limits interaction among different ethnic groups and perpetuates stereotypes and prejudices.

A more integrated education system that promotes critical thinking and intercultural understanding is essential for fostering national unity.

Schools should encourage open discussions about race and ethnicity, helping students understand and appreciate the diverse cultural fabric of Malaysia.

By doing so, we can nurture a generation that values inclusivity and rejects divisive narratives.

Policymakers play a significant role in shaping public discourse on race. Unfortunately, many politicians exploit racial and religious sentiments to garner support, often at the expense of national unity. This exploitation creates a cycle of fear and mistrust among different ethnic groups, hindering efforts to build a cohesive society.

For example, during election campaigns, it is not uncommon for politicians to use racially charged rhetoric to appeal to their voter base.

This tactic reinforces divisions and distracts from pressing issues such as economic development, education reform and social justice. To move forward, politicians must prioritise policies that promote inclusivity and address the needs of all Malaysians regardless of race or religion.

The media also plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of race. The Malaysian media landscape is often criticised for its sensationalism and focus on negative news.

Stories highlighting racial conflicts and controversies dominate headlines, while positive stories of intercultural cooperation and unity receive less attention. This skewed representation can create a sense of hopelessness and reinforce negative stereotypes.

Media outlets have a responsibility to present a balanced view of society. By highlighting stories that celebrate Malaysia’s diversity and promote understanding, the media can play a pivotal role in fostering national unity. Journalists should seek out and share stories of individuals and communities working together to overcome challenges and build a better Malaysia.

In the face of these challenges, it is crucial for individuals to take personal responsibility for promoting kindness and inclusivity. Simple acts of kindness, such as helping a neighbour, volunteering in the community, or standing up against discrimination, can have a profound impact on fostering unity.

By prioritising compassion and understanding in our daily interactions, we can create a ripple effect that strengthens the social fabric of our nation.

By using social media and other platforms to share stories of kindness and unity, we can inspire others to join this movement and create a positive change in our society.

Conversations about race are inherently complex and often fraught with tension.

However, avoiding these discussions does more harm than good. By embracing dialogue and focusing on our shared human experience, we can overcome division and build a more inclusive and compassionate society. - FMT

Adnan D is an FMT reader.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.