Learning to accept changing demands

Unless we get the basics right, we maybe steadily heading in a collision course.

COMMENT

By R Kengadharan
Malaysia celebrates 55 years of independence from British imperialism today. The sudden growth of anti-colonialism and nationalism sentiment regionally accelerated the pronouncement of independence.

After independence the campaign against the communist started which ideology spread posed a direct threat to the Federation and there was a real need to resist the thrust of the communists and if left unattended capable of causing a disastrous scenario.

While Malaysians in general take stability, growth and prosperity for granted, these conditions did not come naturally but required ceaseless effort and we must never forget the perils of communist insurrection, communal riots and intimidation.

Our bitter past and achievements serve as a clear reminder for the younger generation to be more vigilant.

As an independent nation since 1957, with all that diversity, are we able to establish a true Malaysian identity? Are we united now than before?

Have we undertaken constructive measures or intensified steps to foster and strengthen national unity within the multi-racial and multi-ethnic sphere? Is our conduct today causing or creating political and social instability?

As a secular nation we must win the people’s support and their hearts through the building of a clean and effective government and fair society.

There must be no desire to break the very peculiar unity enjoyed thus far i.e. the social unity in the country. We must unite and denounce race based politics, aspersions and remarks.

We must aggressively aim to create a Malaysian Malaysia thus effectively closing the gap of resentment between the non-Malays and Malays. Unless we get the basics right, we maybe steadily heading in a collision course.

As a modern nation we must adopt a visionary approach and learn to accept changing demands of the people and nurture a new generation of young leaders who must take full control of the government and economy.

We must enhance our current multi-cultural society and learn to be less authoritarian and must ensure to rule the country effectively and someday hoping to become a role model.

Additionally, it is ever more imperative to make Malaysia uncorrupt and meritocracy based society. We must be determined to accomplish an efficient and competent administration and to achieve this, quality of political leadership must constantly be re-visited.

We must be able to see beyond personal wants and wishes, and only support policies for the overall good of the country. Remember, that the opportunities you have today came from a cohesive society that nurtured you.

R Kengadharan is a lawyer and a former ISA detainee.