It is interesting to note that our new prime minister has advanced the ‘One Malaysia' concept without a detailed elaboration. A lack of clear definition gives rise to many varying (and even cynical) interpretations.

Is it safe to assume that the prime minister did it deliberately so that there will ensue open public debate about ‘One Malaysia' which could enable the rakyat to be the real stakeholders of the concept (as opposed to a mere political slogan)?

Having said this, allow me to state the difficult hurdles that go against the ‘One Malaysia' journey that is envisaged.

First, the much talked about New Economic Policy that is poorly implemented. We should not do away with the policy (as some people clamour) because it is not in line with the federal constitution. What is sorely wrong is the manner in which the policy is implemented.

The Malays and the bumiputera should be accorded special privileges as per the constitution. But the awarding of special privileges should be fine-tuned. It is proposed that the method of ‘handicap' frequently used in the game of golf be adopted.

The weaker Malay or bumiputera could compete with the stronger economic players by being accorded a measured ‘handicap' favouring the weak .This method will ensure fair competition and the economically weak will also accommodated. The important aspect is that no one gets turned away (assuming one wants to get involved or participate).

Thus, special privileges are still accorded as per the federal constitution and at the same time all Malaysians can partake in sharing the available economic cake. Moreover the element of economic efficiency and meritocracy will come into play on a gradual scale enabling (may be) the New Economic Policy to really succeed in Malaysia, finally.

Second, the ethnic-based political parties that predominate in Malaysia. As long as these parties dominate the political landscape (especially being in the ruling coalition), the distinct racial slant will never, never go away no matter how much our prime minister talks and walks his talk!

For once, our leaders have to stop being naïve and make brave moves to disband race-based political institutions whatever name they masquerade under. Is our new prime minister bold enough to lead this process?

The process had, in fact, started sometime ago. It missed our careful notice. Semangat 46 came to a quick end. Its members did not really get absorbed by Umno Baru (as we are led to believe). One has to see how MIC is staring at its eventual extinction. Gerakan is attempting desperately to shed its old skin before the next general elections.

PAS is extending its arms wider to rope in more non-Muslims as supporters (not as members!). Look at PKR. It is a thriving model in the current political scenario.

So, the crux of the matter is will Barisan Nasional change or be unseated (sooner than expected) from power? Thus a mere mouthing of a ‘One Malaysia' concept will be doomed to failure when BN itself is the biggest hurdle ever to scuttle the journey towards creating a ‘One Malaysia'.

For a start, a high-level committee comprising of ethnic-based political parties' representatives in BN could meet (under the chairmanship of PPP?) to find ways to move in this significant direction, at least to make some semblance of the ‘One Malaysia' concept.

Otherwise we can assume that our prime minister is not really serious about the concept, to say the least.