A FORMER minister called on all Malaysians to “truly gel together” in solidarity as united Malaysians, respecting and accepting all diversity among us.
Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz, who was a former international trade and industry minister, said Malaysia has been independent from colonialists for 67 years and has been a united country.
“Its citizens are all Malaysians. We do not need to question one another on issues about loyalty and love for our nation.
“Those who bring shame and disrespect others certainly do not care for the nation’s good image,” she said on Facebook today.
Recently, former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, whom Rafidah had served under, in an interview with Indian language TV channel Thanthi TV, alleged that the Indian and Chinese communities in Malaysia do not identify as Malaysians because they still have loyalty to “their countries of origin”.
Those who panned the former prime minister’s remarks include National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, who said political leaders should serve as examples in nurturing values of unity, harmony and the spirit of togetherness.
“I urge all sections of society, including political leaders, not to make any statements that touch on religious and ethnic sensitivities, as it can cause hatred. Political leaders should serve as role models in fostering unity, harmony, and a sense of togetherness,” he said.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said Dr Mahathir should not question the loyalty of Malaysians of Indian and Chinese descent just because they speak their mother tongue and adhere to their own culture and customs.
The DAP national deputy chairman said this was because Malaysia is a multiethnic country with citizens from various religious and cultural backgrounds.
Rafidah said, “Doing our best in our various efforts and endeavours, such as in the case of our young, who have made Malaysia proud and carrying the Malaysian flag high, in their various successes and accomplishments, whether in Malaysia or abroad, makes Malaysia proud.
“They did it all as Malaysians and some with no government financial support.”
She said Vision 2020 envisaged a united Bangsa Malaysia or diverse racial and hereditary origins.
“It is already 2024 ... let us all continue to respect our diversities and accept them wholeheartedly. Let us be united and together build a stronger, competitive and well-respected Malaysia.
“We should not allow elements of politics to cause fractions and divisiveness among us,” she added. – The Vibes, January 15, 2024
