LETTER | 2017 has been an eventful year. Let us welcome 2018 with hope, courage, and enthusiasm.

Malaysia remains in flux, beset by difficult and uncertain times. All of us deserve every chance to live out our dreams. And so, in 2018, let’s commit to making a difference.

Whether by lending a hand to a neighbour, or volunteering for a cause we believe in, let’s give generously, and live out the values that brings us together. Let's give ourselves reasons to be proud, and show everyone the strength in our diversity.

As Malaysians, what are our hopes in 2018? All that we want is to good governance, better healthcare and education for our children, affordable housing; an end to GST, poverty, blatant abuses of power, illegal logging, racial discrimination and religious bigotry; as well as the separation of powers and the rule of law to be restored.

As Sarawakians, all that we want is for the federal government to honour the Malaysia Agreement 1963, the amendment of Article 1(2) of the Federal Constitution to restore the status of Sabah and Sarawak as equal partners in Malaysia, the return of 20 percent oil royalty, fair budget allocations, and the recognition of Pemakai Menoa and Pulau Galau in the Sarawak Land Code.

If 2008 was the year we voted for that change, this 2018 will be the year we start to make it happen, we cannot afford to wait another 10 years.

We all want to see a Malaysia that is stronger than it is today. We all want a country that is fairer so that everyone has the chance to succeed. We all want a nation that is safe and secure for our children and grandchildren.

These ambitions unite us, so that we are no longer the 52 percent who voted for the opposition and the 48 percent who voted BN, but one great nation with a proud history and a bright future.

Of course, the previous general election and Sarawak state election laid bare some further divisions in our country. Between those who are prospering and those who are not, this is the year we need to pull down these barriers that hold people back.

This election year, we will have a golden opportunity to demonstrate that – to bring this country together as never before, so that whoever you are, wherever you live, our politics, economy and society work for you, not just a privileged few.

Whatever the challenges, I am confident that Malaysia will pull through, because of the spirit and resilience of our people. As such, I humbly urge the public to unite as we will start to put into action the momentous decision to change the federal government in 2018.

The Malaysia story is the story of ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things together. It is your story, my story, and the stories of everyone around us. It is the story of one united people, regardless of race, language and religion, carving out our place in the sun.

Together, we can make Malaysia strong, wealthy and proud. We can make Malaysia great again.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.