Sowing the seed of unity prudently

How do we formulate outstanding features to harmonise Malaysians of various races?

COMMENT

By R Kengadharan

Of late, politicians and social activists are boldly taking about ‘greater unity’ and ‘people first, performance now’. Does this concept fulfill the aspirations of Malaysians?

It is the general expectation of every Malaysian that they be resilient and capable of overcoming challenges. But this is only possible if we are able to think and act as one race and act towards a common goal.

In the last 45 years, have we truly engineered an affirmative action plan for the marginalised and have we ventured into the destruction of ethnic barriers?

Are the current policies in force implemented fairly? Bearing in mind those setbacks, how do we formulate outstanding features to harmonise Malaysians of various races?

These setbacks have effectively disintegrated the very core foundation of our peculiar national unity advocated by our past political pundits.

Those setbacks thus far have created inefficient, untrustworthy and irresponsible leaders and administration which consequently have seriously undermined national unity .

In the circumstances, how can we harness unity among the races and create a unique identity. It is only possible if we are prepared to undertake and adopt the following steps:

• We must cultivate respect among the races.

• We require national leaders of high integrity and understanding.

• We require leaders with vision, determination, dedication and conviction.

• We require people-friendly policies and action plans.

• We must nurture thinking that is above race, religion, culture or political affiliation.

• We must sincerely ensure, progress and development reach every citizen.

While on the one hand we must reject and condemn outrageous claims and demands, we must be cautious on the formulation and execution of exclusive policies, for such deplorable policies may threaten and disrupt national unity and the assimilation process.

If we strongly believe national interest, integration and unity must supersede other selfish actions, then we must sow the seed of unity carefully and not carelessly and no citizen should feel alienated.

Additionally, we genuinely require builders and not wreckers in fostering national unity and these critical values must be cultivated and nurtured ideally amongst the younger generation.

While this proposition is complex we have to explore and ensure equilibrium between ethnicity and religion.

Remember, a resounding success on national unity is only possible if we citizens embrace one another as Malaysians and share the common vision and destiny.

Happy Malaysia Day 2012.

R Kengadharan is a lawyer and a former ISA detainee