In search of – a Malaysian identity in a sea of political uncertainties

What is a Malaysian?

At some point in our lives, many of us must have asked ourselves this question. It is certainly a fascinating question for the people of Malaysia today, especially among the younger generation.

Are we only Malaysian because we are born here? Is it by adhering to the nation’s cultures and its way of life? Or a combination of both, perhaps something even more?

Through this question, we can perhaps review our currently held concepts of nationality and identity.

Six decades have passed since the formation of Malaysia, and many have tried to provide answers to the question of what or who a Malaysian is. Academics and others have explored this question and written about it.

But what does the average person think? Are they proud and willing to call themselves Malaysians? Why does it matter anyway when many today are more than happy to call themselves “global citizens”?

Theories about nation-states, nationalism and related subjects suggest that a shared national image and culture can bind people together. Cultural homogeneity and a sense of national direction can amplify this effect.

For example, some Americans believe in the innate right to free speech and even the right to bear arms, legislated under the First and the Second Amendment of their Bill of Rights.

Some in the UK hold highly to the beliefs and traditions of the monarchy and its rule.

Mainland China is striving for “moderate prosperity” under the direction of the Communist Party, while upholding rigid structures of governance at all levels.

Many of us in Malaysia take pride in the idea of multiculturalism, that diversity makes the nation. This, we believe, is the basis of our strength in unity despite differences in ethnicity, religion and cultures – as the slogan “Malaysia Truly Asia” puts it.

Each nation has its distinct identity that its people can be proud of. This is a good thing, even if their individual perspectives are different.  

But there is something deeper to know and understand about ourselves. The essence of “Malaysianness” boils down to our degree of “relatable-ness” with our friends and family.

Perhaps we relate more with each other in times of crisis, like during the Covid lockdowns. We relate more when we see our national athletes winning medals on the world stage.

Indeed, we are proud of the many achievements of our people. Sports personalities like Azizulhasni Awang, Lee Chong Wei and Nicol David have achieved glory on the world stage. We have produced scientists, doctors, engineers and others who have contributed to the greater good of humanity.

Some of us frequent mamak stalls for a chat over teh tarik and roti canai. We communicate in a variety of languages and mix them up in our conversations. We go around visiting one another during festive seasons. There is a beauty in all of this and it is hard to find these ties elsewhere in the world.     

But let us not sugarcoat things: Malaysia faces plenty of challenges. We face numerous problems like racism, violence, religious politicking and corruption.

The lack of infrastructure, accountability and development in certain states, like Sabah and Sarawak, along with poor leadership decisions, are some of the other issues we face.

Some express their disappointment and grievances despite having grown up in Malaysia by voting with their feet. They move abroad and take permanent resident status or assume the nationality of their new host country. I understand their positions and perspectives that led them to this decision.

To resolve these issues, don’t ignore them. For a start, acknowledge that there are problems and seek suitable solutions.

Ultimately, we must answer the question – what is a Malaysian? – at a personal level.

For me, a Malaysian is someone who is aware that there are countless differences between others around them and the world at large. This person must try their best to accommodate these differences through compromise and negotiation, while also having love and a heart for others. This person has to hate situations of injustice and to speak out against them.

Being Malaysian is to recognise we have a culture that emphasises good manners and character – “Budi bahasa budaya kita” (good manners is our culture), as the old slogan goes.

Crucially, a Malaysian has to appreciate our diverse cultures and recognise their importance in our society.

The world around us is far from ideal and always will be. But we must strive to maintain peace and love.

Perhaps my answers might be unsatisfying to some – too shallow, just empty words of platitudes. For now, these are the best I can come up with. I speak from the heart. Who knows, perhaps my answers might change in the future.

Having just celebrated independence and Malaysia Day, let’s not forget about the things that glue us together. While we may gripe about certain issues, we must continue to work together to reach greater heights.

Those who have abandoned their Malaysian identity should not be ostracised, mocked and ridiculed. After all, the failures within this nation may have contributed to their choices.

For those of us still here, our struggle to improve our country is far from over. We must try to achieve peace wherever possible, even in the face of rising political polarisation. To cite a verse from St Paul in Romans 12:18, “if it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” 

Keeping the peace in a multicultural society is certainly a daunting task. Often, we see some groups at odds with others. It then becomes important for us to keep the peace with one another and to face our future with resoluteness and with reasonableness. At no point must we resort to violent tactics to achieve certain ends.

We must keep in our hearts the power of love and share it with those around us. Let’s care for and check on those around us, loving our neighbours as ourselves.

We have to get to know our communities better and understand them on a personal basis. Let’s bridge gaps and resolve misunderstandings through closer communication.

We must also be vigilant about any form of extremism propagated in this nation and do our best to tone it down or deter it as much as possible.

I pray that this nation continues to prosper under the leadership of the “unity government” spearheaded by Anwar Ibrahim.

May God bless us all!

Enoch Lim is studying for a masters in public administration at a public university in the peninsula. He graduated with a degree in politics and government studies in Sarawak.

The views expressed in Aliran's media statements and the NGO statements we have endorsed reflect Aliran's official stand. Views and opinions expressed in other pieces published here do not necessarily reflect Aliran's official position.

AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama

1. Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
2. Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
3. Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
4. Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
5. Lawan rasuah dan kronisme

Support our work by making a donation. Tap to download the QR code below and scan this QR code from Gallery by using TnG e-wallet or most banking apps: