While politicians draw lines of division, academic Tajuddin Rasdi reflects on the four years he spent in a Chinese school that nurtured in him a Malaysian worldview, and an enduring ability to behold beauty in plurality.

The architecture professor has never shied from striking at those who exploit racial divides for political gain - a candour that has earned him not only the ire of certain quarters, but also the bitter charge of betraying his own race and faith...