Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim urged political parties to stop exploiting racial issues during a speech in Melaka on September 21, as Malaysia approaches its nearly 70 years of independence.
When politics becomes convoluted and contentious, parties withdraw support and resort to playing the racial card.
When desperate, they use race again,
he said.
A Call for Unity Amid Political Tensions
Anwar’s remarks came during his address at the 41st Malaysia Chinese Cultural Festival in Kota Syahbandar, where he emphasized the need for national unity. My speech tonight is more of an appeal – an appeal for us to return to our collective strength.
He criticized the continued focus on racial issues, noting that Malaysia’s 69 years of independence should have shifted the nation’s priorities away from racial issues being the primary focus of any community.
The prime minister urged all political leaders to commit to protecting the nation and its people. Whoever is given the mandate, whoever is supported, must promise to protect the people, safeguard the country, and secure the future of our children as one nation,
he said.
Historical Context and National Identity
Anwar acknowledged the historical context of racial tensions, referencing Malaysia’s struggle for independence. In the 1940s and 1950s, I can understand. The nation was on the verge of independence, and each group was concerned about its racial survival. In the 1960s, yes, Malaysia was a young nation,
he said. However, he argued that such concerns no longer justified current political strategies.
The prime minister framed his appeal as a moral imperative. Have we not had enough of endless arguments and disputes? Whose country is this? It is our country,
he declared. His remarks underscored a broader message: Malaysia’s future depends on transcending historical divisions.
Zero Tolerance for Corruption
In addition to his remarks on unity, Anwar reaffirmed his government’s commitment to eradicating corruption. My government and I will show zero tolerance, and I will continue to act decisively to clean this country of corruption,
he said. This pledge was also reiterated, highlighting the dual focus on both racial harmony and institutional integrity.
