Don't treat national unity like a step-child, says MCA

MCA wants the National Unity Consultative Council’s (NUCC) proposals on national unity to be made public.

Its religious harmony bureau chairperson, Ti Lian Ker, said not doing so would only be a waste of time and resources in coming out with the report.

Ti believes that it is time the country’s leaders and politicians demanded that the issue of national unity should not be treated like a “step-child” or given mere political lip service.

“For a start, the national blueprint on unity must be made public for the benefit of the people.

“It will be a sheer waste of funds, time, energy and resources if we do not disclose what have been thoroughly discussed and agreed upon by a responsible high-level committee.

“We should not be afraid to take the bull by the horns or reflect on the racial and religious ugly heads that have reared up into our nation of late," he said in a statement today.

He pointed out how unity, which was once the country’s strength, is unlike that of before.

This, he said, was a result of “recent political dismantling” of the cohesive forces or bonding that have been built by the country’s founding fathers.

Malay supremacy took centre stage in the name of national agenda after the May 13 riots, he added.

Egoism of race and religion

“All this emphasis on a single race or a single religion does not spell well for national unity and has not synced with a multi-ethnic or multi-religious nation.

“It is this over-enthusiasm and egoism of race and religion that have destroyed the spirit of tolerance in the name of unity that was the foundation of our nation.”

“Coupled with a weaker leadership and political instability, these bigots and extremists came into the fore of national politics with a handful of supporters.

“After a decade or so of such energy, it is time for the authorities to step in to take stock of these destructive forces that have been tearing the nation apart,” said Ti.

He is of the opinion that a more senior minister should be empowered to take charge of national unity.

He also suggested that a “conflict resolving authority” be set up and authorities empowered to stem out ugly or extreme forces or their presence.

“National unity must be given serious consideration and not just lip service. Our future and strength depend on our unity,” he added.

The NUCC was set up two years ago to come out with ideas to foster national unity.

NUCC in its report had outlined 16 recommendations to be considered by the government. The report is currently not open to the public. -Mkini