Racial fairness in jobs goes beyond political correctness

 

From Moaz Nair

The benefits of a diverse workforce go beyond political correctness. For long-term benefit to the country, it is fitting that the public and the private sectors embrace diversity by accommodating Malaysians of all ethnic groups in their workforce.

They should promote diversity in their workforce to reflect the racial composition in the country and ensure that no ethnic group is deprived of jobs in both the sectors.

A multiracial workforce in both the public and private sectors will pave the way not only for better work ethics but will also nurture better cultural understanding and, to an extent, lessen racial and religious inharmoniousness among the various communities.

The new unity government has shown some positive signs in ensuring that the issue of racist speech and extremism in religious rhetoric is nipped in the bud. In fact, more can be done to tone down the nasty racial and religious discord that now and again rears it ugly head.

Start with the schools

Racial tolerance and understanding starts at the school level. The present government has a crucial role to play in making national schools the school of choice of all Malaysians.

Efforts have to be made to prevent national schools from being turned into “religious schools” that will be shunned by pupils of different ethnic groups and religions.

A multiracial setup in all national schools will nurture and pave the way for better cultural understanding among pupils of all ethnic groups.

The workforce and students in all educational institutions in the country also need to be multiracial to reflect the racial composition of the country.

Fairness in employment

The workforce in the public and private sectors in general have to reflect a fair ethnic composition, so that no Malaysian will feel marginalised when it comes to employment.

Studies have shown there are many benefits to workplace diversity, in promoting cross-cultural understanding and generating more ideas, competition and challenges. There is a wider range of skills among employees and a diversity of experiences and abilities, which can lead to greater innovation, better decision-making and higher engagement.

In a diverse workplace, employees are more likely to remain loyal when they feel respected and valued. People can learn from each other.

All sectors, public as well as private, must facilitate a significant representation of people of all ethnic groups, at all levels.

A report by the LinkedIn site on global recruiting trends showed that 78% of companies prioritise diversity to improve work culture and 62% of companies prioritise it to boost financial performance and productivity.

The report added that sectors making meaningful efforts towards diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as providing a sense of belonging are observed to be more dynamic and successful.

Political stability

Population-wise, 69.9% of Malaysians are classified as Bumiputeras (of whom 63.5% are Muslim), 22.8% are classified as ethnic Chinese and 6.6% as ethnic Indians. Those who do not fall under these three main ethnic groups are classified as “others”.

Malaysia has over 80 sub-ethnic groups, each having its own unique way of life. The country has to continue accommodating all these ethnic groups in employment.

Only a nation that is politically stable, and not bogged down by racial and religious rancour, will draw in investors. No investor would want to invest in a nation that is embroiled in racial or religious skirmishes.

There are countries with people of one race and religion yet in shambles because of intra-racial and intra-religious strife, so much so that investors fear to tread there. They are economically doomed, bringing a lot of misery to the people.

It is hoped that the present unity government can lead the way to a better and harmonious Malaysia by continuing to see that the workforce is diverse and inclusive of persons of all ethnic groups. - FMT

Moaz Nair is an FMT reader.

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