Government policies promoting inclusivity will not jeopardize Malays’ interests

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister, dismissed Malays’ apprehensions that the government’s policies are becoming more inclusive and tolerant of others, which could potentially compromise their interests.

The Prime Minister has confirmed that the current government will never compromise the status of Bahasa Melayu as the country’s official language, the privileges of Islam, or the position of Malay monarchs under the Federal Constitution.

Through our formidable coalition partners, the government and I have made it abundantly clear that we will never compromise on constitutional guarantees, the position of the Malay rulers, Malay and Bumiputera privileges, and Islam as the religion of the Federation.

“In fact, for the first time since independence, we explicitly established a minimum portion of 50 acres as a Malay reserve when we reclaimed Bandar Malaysia (project) from a foreign entity under this government.”

He stated in his speech at the Malay College Old Boys Association (MCOBA) annual dinner here tonight, “This instills confidence in me because not only Malays, but also non-Malays, including my Cabinet, understand that this position and government policy make it absolutely clear that we are here to be fair, to consider every single Malaysian as one great member of one great family.” According to the Prime Minister, the government is in favor of affirmative action; however, it does not condone discrimination.

He acknowledges that nepotism tainted previous implementations of affirmative action policies, including the Bumiputera policy. He notes that families and party leaders exploited the policy to enrich themselves at the expense of the general Malay community. Despite this, Anwar has expressed his support for a modern, transparent, and inclusive version of affirmative action, which would ensure a more equitable distribution of benefits to all Malays, including the impoverished metropolitan areas and rural communities.

“That is why I am of the opinion that it is imperative to convey this essential message and raise awareness among the Malays. We cannot anticipate success if we fail to uphold the principles of inclusivity and transparency and ensure that these policies benefit the vast majority of Malays, including the urban poor and those from rural areas,” he continued.

Anwar maintains its Malay identity while acknowledging the Malay College’s historical position as a provider of privileged education, with ties to the colonial establishment and British values, in relation to MCOBA.

The college’s tradition, he stated, has remained true to its foundations, with its alumni making significant contributions to the nation’s development while remaining true to Islam, Malay heritage, and national values.

According to him, this amalgamation of tradition and modernity is indispensable as Malaysia confronts 21st-century obstacles, including energy transition and digital transformation.