By Ah Beng
As I read the arguments between Khalid Samad and Ibrahim Ali over racism and the love for one’s race and culture, I could not help but feel the need to chip in.
I think we cannot really avoid racism totally. In Malaysia’s context, this is accentuated by religious differences that coincide with racial differences.
The most important thing is whether we have a system that is able to keep racism in check despite the inherent “racial tendency” within each of us.
I can easily appreciate the rationale of Parti Pribumi Bersatu’s decision to confine membership to Malays and bumiputeras only. To the majority of them, they must be in control, whether they are racist or otherwise.
I think there is a difference between “being insecure” and “being racist.”
Many Malays and bumiputera are insecure because they fear the dynamism and “aggressiveness” of “immigrant” communities in the country. They are fearful of marginalisation within their own country despite being the majority. Hence the apparent racism is not so much to dominate and bully others, but more to protect themselves. They want to equip themselves quickly to be on par with others. They want to be in control of political power to give them that assurance.
Of course there is a thin line between feeling insecure and crossing over to being racist. The motivation of racism is to hate, abuse and bully others using one’s superior position, which could be in terms of numerical strength or control over institutions and government.
The Malays need to ask themselves which of the two categories above is more logical and enduring.
If the intention is to address Malay insecurity, I think it would lead to better outcomes. There will be genuine intention to develop and equip the Malays to compete. Power and resources will be used to create a bigger cake. There will be less abuse, bullying and blaming of others.
On the other hand, if it is Malay racism they are after, I think the consequences will be dire. Power and resources will be used to amass wealth and positions that are not sustainable. There will be little empowerment among the Malays while other communities in the country are marginalised and deprived at the same time.
I see no light at the end of the tunnel for non-Malays to contest for political leadership, at least at this juncture in our history. Malay insecurity and Malay racism will not allow it. It is more productive and enduring for the Malays and non-Malays to support Malay leaders who are enlightened, clean and competent. Let’s fight for Malaysia to be in good hands first. It is time to keep our big ideals at the back burner for the moment.
“Ah Beng” is the pseudonym of an FMT reader.
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