11-7-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) Former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s recent comments have once again highlighted his racial biases and unwavering Malay supremacist agenda. In a lengthy Facebook post, Dr Mahathir argued that the majority Malays in Malaysia have not benefited from the country’s multicultural fabric. Using a shopping complex analogy, he claimed that most of the economic development and wealth in Malaysia is driven by Chinese businesses, while Malays are left with meager opportunities. Although acknowledging the contribution of Chinese businesses in terms of tax revenue, Dr Mahathir implied that non-Malays have received sufficient compensation in Malaysia.
Furthermore, Dr Mahathir expressed dissatisfaction with the political influence of Chinese Malaysians and insinuated that the only way for Malays to regain their political dominance is at the expense of Chinese and Indian Malaysians, framing it as a zero-sum game.
Dr Mahathir justified his stance by asserting that Malaysia has always been a Malay country, despite its diverse population. He praised the assimilation of minorities in other nations while criticizing vernacular schools and ethnic groups seeking to preserve their languages and cultures. Dr Mahathir’s recent affiliation with a new Malay supremacist party has further exposed his true agenda.
Dr Mahathir’s remarks reveal regressive and divisive thinking. Malaysia’s progress and prosperity have been achieved through the collective contributions of all ethnic groups. Economic dominance by one group should never serve as a justification for curtailing the political rights of others.
Malaysia’s identity as an inclusive and multicultural nation should be celebrated and upheld, not undermined. Forced assimilation of minorities goes against the principles of diversity, as ethnic cultures and languages deserve respect as integral parts of our collective heritage. Malaysia’s challenges with competitiveness and wealth inequality stem from policies that promote inclusivity, meritocracy, and entrepreneurship for all, rather than the ethnic composition of business owners.
Despite Dr Mahathir’s claims of not being racist, his framing of ethnic issues in zero-sum terms continues to foster resentment. Legitimate discussions surrounding affirmative action, vernacular schools, and unequal wealth distribution should be based on principles of equity, pluralism, and a shared vision of multiethnic progress.
Dr Mahathir’s toxic rhetoric poses a threat to Malaysia’s social cohesion and undermines the prospects for genuine reform. Instead of clinging to divisive concepts like a “Malay country,” leaders should articulate a vision for an inclusive Malaysian identity that embraces diversity and empowers all citizens to succeed regardless of their ethnicity. Only by embracing the multicultural reality and rejecting exclusionary narratives can Malaysians build a more just, united, and prosperous future together.
