We are happy that all Malaysians celebrated
57th anniversary of Merdeka. Looking back, we have done well
especially in physical and economic development. One must admit that it is not
easy to govern a multiracial, multicultural and multi-religious country like
ours. It is a fine-balancing act of catering to the needs and sensitivities of
all races. Unfortunately, not many Malaysians are aware of this or only pay lip
services. Hence, race and religion continue to be a hot topic. It is
unfortunate that often such extreme views are given a lot of space in media.
Hence, it is a bad news of race and religion that seems to get all the unwanted
prominence.
All Malaysians must accept the fact that we
are entitled to our own freedom of expression, our thoughts and opinions but
once this infringes the right of another individual, then we are actually
crossing the boundaries of freedom of expression. Anti-Malay, anti-Chinese
bashing or any form of religious bias should be history and not a daily-stapled
diet of any rightful minded Malaysian.
The economic transformation program
launched by the Prime Minister seems to bear fruits. From 2010 to 2014,
Malaysia has achieved better economic growth than most other Asean countries.
One must not be lured into complacency as Indonesia and the Phillipines are
fast catching up with Malaysia. Economic growth must also generate employment,
equal distribution of wealth, reducing the income gap between the rich and the
poor without sacrificing the environment. While we welcome FDI, Malaysia should
continue the policy of economic liberalization, coupled with training of more
talents and reducing talent leakage.
We should continue to attract investment
that has multiplier effect so that all Malaysians will have a feel good factor.
Political, racial and religious rhetoric and tension at times will not help our
attempt to attract FDI and also in retaining talents. Of greater concern is the
education system where the standards of English, Maths and Science seems to go
downhill. While we may be aware of it, but we lack the political will to relook
at the whole education system. The standard of education system has not tallied
with the nation’s growth.
