We strongly suggest that the prime minister sack Negri Sembilan MB Mohamad Hassan over his recent remark on not needing other component parties in Barisan Nasional. He should be menteri besar for all races and if he can’t, he should then be removed. This stern action must be taken immediately to quash future racist remarks by any politicians and serve as a reminder.

Malaysia is a multi racial country. Our voters are not limited to one race for the Negri Sembilan MB to arrogantly state he does not need  other races’ votes. Together the Chinese and Indians are a sizeable force, our votes matters no matter in which state.

Dynamics change all the time; if the non-Malays are not voting for BN because of some Umno politician’s deliberate race-based strategy, will the East Malaysians continue to vote overwhelmingly for BN? Right now, amidst our current political turmoil, all component parties under BN should work together to secure votes in the upcoming general election.

BN should go back to our primary objective of being a people’s movement party ,based on fairness and justice for all. Some Umno men should realise that it cannot cling on to power forever by playing the racial card. It will only incur the wrath of the Malays who just want to live in peace and harmony with fellow Malaysians.

This is very trying time, and there is need for a lot of rational, objective analysis from all members regardless which party they are from. It is time to put aside all conflicts and differences and work towards good governance . Scornful diatribes should be avoided at any cost.

MOHANA MUNIANDY is national Wanita MIC chief.