I HAVE not spoken or discussed with any politician or political activist. Therefore, I am naïve in politics and my perspectives are based on contents from various sources, opinions posted online, mainstream and social media, and my interpretations from reading between the lines.
My views may be dismissed as naïve by politicians, but could be interesting and useful for others, especially those who can think for themselves, unlike blind followers and sycophants.
I have a disdain for politics and have never been a political neophyte, a member of any political party, or have attended any political rally to listen to speeches over the past 75 years.
This is because talk is cheap. I avoid such public gatherings and imagine many in the audience would be suckered by the rhetoric, swayed by issues concerning race, religion and language.
These perennial issues will continue to be harped upon by politicians eager to win popularity, support and votes from the rakyat in order to gain power, position and wealth for themselves.
Many politicians need and seek votes from party members, and from constituencies if nominated to contest in a general or by-election, such as the one set on April 26 at Ayer Kuning in Perak.
There are two main types of politicians or political activities. The first are those who work hard to uplift the constituency they are representing and safeguard the interest of the state and nation.
Regardless of whether they are from the ruling party or opposition, elected representatives should try to work closely with the local authorities, state and federal governments for the benefit of their constituents.
They also ought to work within their parties to propose new state enactments or federal laws, or amendments to existing ones, and actively engage in debates in the state assembly or Dewan Rakyat, as they are the lawmakers. Instead, many were absent from such sittings.
Individually, they must assemble a capable and efficient team to help serve the constituents and win their hearts and minds to ensure victory in the next general election.
But lifting entire communities out of poverty, creating higher income opportunities, and better livelihood for all requires real hard work.
However, it is much easier to sow fear and hatred by creating or using imaginary threats against their race, religion and language, so as to be seen as a champion and hero to defend against bogeymen. Sadly, many politicians are in this second category by diverting real issues.
Unfortunately, many Malaysian voters are more emotional than rational and can easily be swayed. They range from those living in poverty or semi-illiterate to the so-called highly educated or religious, although race, culture and language are non-issues in religions.
While neighbouring countries are racing ahead, we are still grappling with issues that have long been settled when we first achieved independence and then formation of Malaysia.
This is because these politicians do not truly have our people and nation’s interest at heart. Fiercely defending race, religion and language is just a disguise to serve their hidden agenda. They have only succeeded in institutionalising corruption that has dragged down our country. – April 9, 2025
YS Chan is master trainer for Mesra Malaysia and Travel and Tours Enhancement Course and an Asean Tourism Master Trainer. He is also a tourism and transport business consultant.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Main image: Harian Metro
