COMMENT | In Malaysia, we have grown accustomed to a peculiar form of social classification. When one class of citizens is accorded priority and privileges under the New Economic Policy (NEP), it is largely accepted as a necessary intervention - an affirmative policy - even if foreign media have branded it “institutionalised discrimination”.

Yet, when this stratification extends to the enforcement of our laws, the conversation shifts. We are told the system is not flawed, but merely functioning as intended.

There is a critical distinction worth examining: a flawed system can be repaired, but a failed system spreads its own injustices until they become the norm.

We have arrived at the latter. Today, we witness a nation where one group can violate the law - even taunt those empowered to enforce - while another is identified, arrested, charged, and sentenced within days.

This is not inconsistent enforcement; it is selective prosecution dressed in the language of order.

Against this backdrop, official assurances of “taking action” ring hollow. Our enforcement authorities, whether...