JULY 11 — The Regent of Perak Raja Dr Nazrin Shah has shown through his objective viewpoints that he is able to think beyond politics and races when commenting on many national issues.

In his speech delivered at the Malaysian Armed Forces 2013 Lecture titled “Post-13th General Election: Solidarity and National Unity”, he pointed out various phenomena and facts to prove that the people are not racists. In addition to proving his arguments with evidence, his remarks were interesting and very convincing.

Of course, he was referring to the majority of Malaysians. It does not mean that racism does not exist in the country, particularly in the political sphere.

In fact, under the atmosphere filled with the mindset of “Chinese tsunami” after the general election, many Umno leaders have pointed their fingers against the Chinese. Racist remarks could be heard everywhere, hurting the feelings of the Chinese while provoking suspicions among different races.

The Regent of Perak said that in Ipoh, members of the three major races could be seen having nasi lemak at Malay restaurants, white coffee and kaya toasts at Chinese traditional coffeeshops or teh tarik and tosai at Indian restaurants. He believes that similar scenes could also be seen in other cities.

He was indeed right but there are also some differences. Take Johor Baru, for instance, it is common to see members of the three major races in Malay and Indian eateries but, except for some special cases, Malays could now be hardly seen in Chinese restaurants. It is no longer as common as in the 1960s and 1970s. Of course, it is related to religious consciousness but it is inevitably a pity.

As for the situation in schools, leaving primary schools of different streams aside, basically students of various races in secondary schools, colleges and universities have no problem getting along. Problems and troubles are always created by external political factors. Such as problematic teachers making the “balik China” remarks have actually been tainted by racist politicians. Meanwhile, many unfair phenomena in universities are results of racial policy.

As Raja Nazrin said, nationals of different races have been living in harmony and naturally, they formed a beautiful scene of solidarity and negotiation. However, it has been hindered from time to time by a political malignant tumour. We should always stay vigilant to this fact.

Times are different after all. Political parties and politicians must make changes in accordance with the progress of times. The changes should not limited only to images, but thorough awakening is more crucial.

Raja Nazrin has made a positive comment on PAS for changing from opposing power sharing with non-Muslims in the early days to forming state governments with non-Muslims today. Meanwhile, he has also sketched a vision worth pursuing, featuring a cross-racial political culture which is more representative and balanced.

Amidst the chaos after the election, we need more objective and fair voices not affected by the intense battle between the ruling and alternative coalitions, the assertion of either black or white, the consciousness of either friend or foe, as well as racial interests. These remarks are no longer meant to tearfully accuse or mobilise with hatred. Instead, with a more open mind, they consolidate the democracy process and create a true victory for the people! — mysinchew.com

* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malay Mail Online.