By Iskandar Khoo Kuan Yiaw
Recently, I came across a thought-provoking video by Prof. Ridhuan Tee discussing unity in Malaysia. His message was clear: unity requires more than just tolerance—it demands genuine assimilation. This is a conversation that Malaysians urgently need to engage in.
A Look Back at Our History
To truly understand where we are today, we must look back to our history. The establishment of vernacular schools—SRJK(C) for Chinese and SRJK(T) for Indians—was a British colonial legacy rooted in the assumption that immigrant communities would eventually return to their homelands. But that never happened. These communities stayed, and Malaysia became their home. Yet many still hesitate to fully embrace the local culture, customs, and especially Bahasa Malaysia, our national language.
This hesitation creates barriers to unity. It’s not just about language—it’s about belonging, about a shared identity and common purpose. Without this, our dream of a united Malaysia remains distant.
A Personal Perspective: The Journey of a Revert Muslim
As a revert to Islam, this issue resonates deeply with me. Since embracing Islam, I’ve experienced the genuine warmth and brotherhood of my Muslim sisters and brothers across all races. Their commitment to the faith and to living according to Islamic principles is inspiring. This sense of ukhuwah—brotherhood—extends beyond religion; it is a call for harmony and mutual respect among all Malaysians who share the faith.
The journey to becoming Muslim was not easy. Adapting to new practices, understanding halal and haram—it required patience and perseverance. But it has been a journey toward being part of a united nation grounded in shared values.
Facing Misconceptions and Communication Gaps
One challenge I face is the perception some non-Muslims hold toward reverts—often viewed with suspicion, accused of converting for personal gain, or even betrayal of their original community. I recall an insensitive interview where a Chinese Muslim actor was asked if he still ate pork. This question, though perhaps unintentional, revealed a lack of respect and understanding.
Ironically, some of these same communities speak only their mother tongue and resist mastering Bahasa Malaysia, underscoring the communication gaps that persist.
Political Realities: Beyond Surface Gestures
Politically, many non-Muslim leaders claim to understand the Malay community, especially during election seasons. Wearing baju Melayu, reciting greetings, and attending religious events are common symbolic gestures. But these actions often remain superficial. They miss the deep values rooted in Malay-Muslim identity.
Attempts to frame Malay needs through Western frameworks like Maslow’s hierarchy miss the mark. For Malay-Muslims, Islam is not merely a need; it is the foundation of life itself—shaping values, law, and community. When commentators express fear or hostility toward Islamic governance, they deny the constitutional reality of Malaysia’s official religion and sow division.
Malaysia’s history is unique. Unlike countries where indigenous populations were nearly displaced or erased, Malaysia remains a Malay land with continuous cultural roots extending back to Parameswara’s time. Recognizing this truth is essential to national cohesion.
The Voice of the Young and the Call for Sincerity
Today’s Muslim youth, empowered by social media and increased political awareness, are more informed and vocal. They demand leadership that respects their faith and culture. So the question remains: is wearing songkok and baju Melayu enough to secure Malay votes or build unity? Without genuine understanding and respect for Malay-Muslim values, these are mere tokens.
We must be honest with ourselves. Denial only worsens the divide. Many Malaysians who have lived here all their lives still struggle with or reject Bahasa Malaysia. How can unity be achieved without a shared language?
Moving Forward: A Call to Action
True unity will not come from slogans or empty gestures. It requires sincerity, humility, mutual respect, and a genuine willingness to understand one another beyond the surface.
As Malaysians, it is time to embrace assimilation—not forced conformity, but heartfelt integration. We must speak Bahasa Malaysia, learn about each other’s cultures, and recognize the central place of Islam in our nation’s identity. Only then can we build a Malaysia that truly embodies “unity in diversity.”
Iskandar Khoo Kuan Yiaw serves as the Chief of the Kepong Perikatan Nasional (PN) Liaison Body.
