Our beloved nation is not only at a crossroads but its basic social fabric, national harmony and continued progress is being threatened by racial and religious extremists who are getting bolder day by day.

Cases such as the refusal of religious authorities to return seized Bibles despite the attorney-general ruling that the Bible Society of Malaysia would not be prosecuted; our history being distorted to label the Chinese migrants as “intruders”; the reluctance of the inspector-general of police (IGP) to enforce court decisions; and the threat to behead four opposition MPs have greatly alarmed all peace-loving and right-thinking Malaysians.

Take heed that we are slowly, but surely, reaching the tipping point that may set a train of events ultimately leading to social unrest and national disintegration (God forbid).

Now, more than ever, our beloved nation is crying for a more authentic and bold leadership to weather the raging storm fuelled by misguided racial and religious extremists.

Authentic leaders are those who place national interests ahead of their own, demonstrate high integrity (being honest, honouring commitments and practising Leadership by Example), and are committed to building a truly united and progressive nation based upon the supremacy of the constitution, rule of law, equitable treatment of its citizens, meritocracy, transparency and accountability.

Bold leaders are those that are courageous to uphold what is right, ensure justice is meted out, and to take a firm stand (even if it is unpopular) against religious and racial bigots.

Hence, it is my fervent hope that our leaders will put long-term national interests before partisan interests; promote racial and religious harmony; and take decisive and swift action against racial and religious extremists bent upon creating social discord to further their own ends.

We, particularly the ‘enlightened’ Malaysians of all ethnic origins, must work together courageously and spearhead the movement to create a truly united and progressive Malaysia. We should seek common ground and cement harmonious racial and religious ties instead of getting embroiled in gutter politics and tearing the nation apart.

In this regard, I am reminded of Nelson Mandela’s famous quote: “A real leader uses every issue, no matter how serious and sensitive, to ensure that at the end of the debate, we should emerge stronger and more united than ever before.”