Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s recent remarks on the Urban Renewal Act have reignited a crucial conversation about the future of the Malays. His assertion that certain groups resist progress to keep Malays in a state of vulnerability is not without merit.
There are forces that thrive on dependency politics, ensuring Malays remain easy to manipulate through racial and religious rhetoric rather than empowering them with real opportunities for success.
For decades, Malays have grappled with economic and educational disparities. Despite government initiatives aimed at bridging this gap, progress has remained slow and inconsistent. While some Malays have risen to success, the majority still lag in business, financial literacy, and economic mobility.
The Chinese continue to excel in these areas, not due to privilege but because of deeply ingrained values of entrepreneurship, financial discipline, and long-term planning.
The Chinese prioritise wealth creation, skill development, and business acumen from an early age. Many Chinese families nurture their children to take over businesses, instilling financial discipline, strategic thinking, and resilience.
Many Malays struggle with financial management, leading to poor economic mobility and continued reliance on government support. This is not a question of capability, but a mindset shift that needs to happen - one that embraces self-reliance over dependency.
Economic success
One of the greatest barriers to Malay progress is the culture of dependency reinforced by certain political figures. Rather than fostering self-sufficiency, these leaders cultivate a mindset of victimhood, persuading Malays that their struggles are entirely due to external oppression rather than a lack of adaptation and forward-thinking.
While Malays wait for political saviours, the Chinese are building businesses, mastering financial literacy, and equipping their children for economic success. This stark contrast in approach has widened the gap, leaving Malays economically fragile and politically exploited.
The Chinese economic success is no coincidence - it is the result of unwavering discipline, financial prudence, and a deep commitment to education. From an early age, their children are exposed to financial literacy, business strategies, and long-term investment planning.
Many Malay families lack structured financial planning, leading to continued economic struggles and reliance on government assistance. Again, this is not about capability but about embracing a transformative mindset to break free from stagnation.
Education is the greatest weapon against economic stagnation. If Malays are to compete on equal footing, they must embrace lifelong learning, skill mastery, and financial independence. Success should not be measured solely by academic degrees but by the ability to navigate economic landscapes, innovate in industries, and develop sustainable businesses.
While political rhetoric may stir emotions, it cannot replace real progress. Advancement does not come from grievances but from innovation, discipline, and strategic execution.
Religion
Another major roadblock to Malay progress is the misinterpretation of religion as a justification for economic complacency. Islam promotes excellence, self-improvement, and financial stability, yet some have distorted its teachings to discourage ambition and romanticise struggle without solutions.
This distortion has allowed certain factions to manipulate religious sentiment, convincing followers that financial independence contradicts Islamic values. In reality, Islam champions knowledge, hard work, and personal growth - principles that should form the foundation of Malay success.
The time has come for Malays to reject the politics of complacency and dependency. Waiting for government handouts and political saviours will not bring lasting change. True progress demands a shift in mindset, a commitment to self-reliance, and an openness to learning from those who have succeeded.
The opportunity for Malays to rise and claim their future is within reach. But it requires breaking free from outdated mentalities, adopting successful financial habits, and actively shaping a competitive economic identity.
The Malays have the potential to be strong, competitive, and prosperous - if they are willing to break the chains of stagnation and embrace a future built on knowledge, discipline, and resilience.
The question now is whether Malays will continue to be used as pawns in political games or take charge of their destiny. - Mkini
MAHATHIR MOHD RAIS is a former Federal Territories Bersatu and Perikatan Nasional secretary.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of MMKtT.
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