LETTER | A familiar old man seems constantly in the news these days, a former prime minister whose long tenure and iron-willed rule have permanently etched a place in the minds of most Malaysians.

On the occasion of his 98th birthday today, most Malaysians would want to wish him all the best; and certainly for him to find peace and happiness.

As much as we would wish that a man of his stature would have comfortably slipped into the role of a statesman seeking peace and understanding among all citizens and a voice of reason to cut through the mire of politics and ethno-religious rhetoric that seems to plague us incessantly, it is unfortunate that this does not seem to be the case.

At a critical juncture in time where he could do tremendous good in national reconciliation, he appears to have chosen to make what may be considered inflammatory statements that sometimes defy belief, and which have been described by some as wading into racially sensitive areas.

Historical documents like our Malaysian constitution seem to be interpreted in a manner that could stir unease and brew dissatisfaction. Circular arguments are arising, such as insinuating that Malay poverty is due to the control of the economy by non-Malays and alleging that the loss of political power by Malays is because of corruption orchestrated by non-Malays.

Waves of fear

While there is every hope that the majority of Malaysians today have reached a sufficient level of awareness and understanding through education and exposure to analyse and evaluate, there are always some who are gullible enough to believe stories that could give rise to waves of fear and paranoia.

A recent claim has been publically made that promoting a multiracial Malaysia goes against the Federal Constitution. Such a claim is as baseless as it is ridiculous, because constitutions are considered ‘living’ documents open to amendments through a two-thirds majority vote in Parliament.

During this ex-premier’s tenure as prime minister, over 20 amendments were passed some of them controversial, perhaps even more as a member of the cabinet prior to that. That he was the leader of a multiracial ruling government for 22 years first and 22 months second speaks volumes, and gives rise to legitimate questions about what agenda could possibly be served by the type of rhetoric currently being used.

It is perplexing why he continues to sow discord at his age. Perhaps fear of political reprisals or investigation into affairs of himself or his family or his key supporters? Nobody can say for sure.

Iron grip

His leadership was once hailed as brilliant, but he has also been labelled in the past as a recalcitrant, a megalomaniac, and a dictator. He held an iron grip on power during his tenure, with little opposition daring to challenge him. Yet, despite his tearful lamentations on corruption and money politics, events during his tenure hinted at the proliferation of corruption.

Sadly, few were held accountable, and the separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches appeared blurred. My previous admiration for his intellect and willpower, crediting our nation's growth during the heady ‘Asian tiger economy’ years in the 80s and 90s largely to him, has since vanished.

The transition from an agrarian to an industrial economy in hindsight seems inevitable, although the quality of leadership would have influenced the pace.

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) unquestionably form the backbone of our economy, contributing 37 percent to GDP growth in 2022. Let us acknowledge that these successful businesses were predominantly built by the ethnic Chinese through enterprise, entrepreneurship, and hard work spanning decades.

Collective strengths

Of course, all races in Malaysia contributed significantly to our economic growth through various sectors and services dating back to pre-independence.

History aside, the essence lies in leveraging our collective strengths as a diverse nation - a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, and multi-religious society living harmoniously with the common goal of progress for all citizens. This unique element of strength is a source of immense pride and should be celebrated.

Sadly, disruptive forces with ill intent have exploited race, religion, and dogma to further their own interests without regard for the common threads that bind us together such as unity, tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect.

It is ironic that this ex-premier and his new allies now refer to non-Malay citizens as foreigners and guests poised to seize political control from the Malays. Even schoolchildren understand the changing demographics and emigration patterns in our nation. The majority Malay population is growing, while the non-Malay population is decreasing, making the loss of political power an unfounded claim.

Seeing bogeymen at every corner has become an obsession for these leaders, blinding them to the concept of citizenship and perpetuating the idea of non-Malays as forever second-class citizens transcending generations.

Faltering economy

Instead of nurturing talent and brains among non-Malays in tandem with the Malays to further Malaysia's advancement, policies seem designed to drive the former away.

Sixty-five years have passed since independence, yet these leaders continue to squabble over secularism, liberalism, and every imaginable schism. Not a word about science and technology in general or the latest scientific breakthroughs in the world, or about revamping our education system at every level to dig ourselves out of the paper mill rut that we are firmly entrenched in.

Economic indicators signal a potentially faltering economy and the danger of waning investor confidence, but they remain oblivious to the consequences of their actions. A small fire can be extinguished, but a conflagration can destroy nations.

We are all citizens of Malaysia joined in an endeavour to prosper together without leaving anyone behind; and together we can reach for the stars.

Let us consign these failing political leaders to the dinosaur heap of history, and let all of us right-thinking citizens join hands to steer our ship back on the correct course for the sake of our children and our future generations.

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