I refer to malaysiakini's report NEP will destroy Malays , a remark made by PKR treasurer Khalid Ibrahim, who was once seen to be at the forefront in articulating such a policy.

Imagine if Malaysia has not adopted the New Economic Policy 35 years ago to help the Malays - a lot of us will still be living in the kampong and there will be no Malay businessman and contractors today. There is also a more balanced distribution in wealth among the different races now compared to 35 years ago, which is critical to preserving racial harmony. The fact speaks for itself and clearly the argument that NEP will destroy the Malays is unfounded.

Today, the Malays have not only been successful locally but also internationally. Petronas is a strong brand that has made its mark in all continents. Our carmaker, Proton, is renowned in the world and a lot of the big local firms such as Telekom, Sime Darby and CIMB, which are led by the Malays, are all well-known in the region as well. I also found that some Singapore's firms can't even compete with these companies.

One has to realise that only when success could be guaranteed in the home country, there is a chance to succeed at the international level. The NEP did not only help the Malays to succeed in the past, it will also ensure the survival of the Malays, both locally and internationally. With the help of NEP, the Malays have become more hard working and better skilled. A lot of us are able to do business now and I am not afraid to say that some of the Malays are outperforming the Chinese.

The NEP should further be expanded to strengthen the economical interest of the Malays so that they could be more equipped to compete internationally. With the important role the Malay language is playing in the region, the NEP acts as a catalyst to develop Malay businesses and skills at full speed.

In view of the above benefits brought about under the NEP, and its important role in preserving racial harmony, I fail to understand why NEP will destroy the Malays. On the other hand, without NEP, Malaysia will be destroyed.