It puzzles me to see the government's efforts to improve race relations through the enactment of new legislation. Whilst the goals of the proposed law are noble, we must not forget that creating a harmonious multi-ethnic multi-religious society begins with equality.
Recognising that all Malaysians are created equal, that all our forefathers had toiled and bled for our nation and therefore enjoying equitable rights in Malaysia is fundamental to achieving the stated goal.
Secondly, value-based education as espoused by former president of India, APJ Abdul Kalam who visited Malaysia recently, beginning at homes and continued in schools, reinforcing that all of us are Malaysians with different cultural backgrounds but equitable rights in this country, is essential.
We also need political will to ensure that race-based politics, ethno-discriminative laws and practices are abolished. For example, I have primary-school going cousins who are made to feel the differences between Muslims and non-Muslims from a young age.
Even the school time table is adjusted for Muslims and non-Muslims and I have difficulty answering to their numerous "Why is that so?" questions. I particularly remember a Standard 6 cousin of mine who was ecstatic when she found out that she and her best friend, a Malay girl, had both signed up for a school camping trip.
However, upon arriving at the pick up point, the organising teacher announced that non-Muslims were not allowed to participate in the trip. How can we promote race relations when children are denied the opportunity to mix, even at such a tender age?
For the record, there is no such thing as non-Muslims. There are however Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Taoists and others. We need to educate our young children, not insulate them from learning about other religions, cultural beliefs and practices. Remember, ignorance breeds danger.
Until all Malaysians feel they have equal rights in this country, and are taught to respect one another, to learn about each others cultural background and religion, enacting legislation to promote race relations would be futile.
Politicians making grand announcements such as "Malaysians respect each other" or "We are all equal" will merely be spouting rhetoric, until all of us Malaysians actually feel that way. Sadly, that is not the case today.
No. 48, Jalan Kemuja, Bangsar Utama 59000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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