FOLLOWING MCA deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek's controversial statement on ketuanan Melayu or Malay supremacy, three Barisan Nasional assemblymen took it upon themselves to explain the actual concept in the state assembly yesterday.

During a debate on the state 2009 Budget, which was tabled more than a week ago, Ayub Jamil (BN-Rengit) led the call to quash any racial provocation by political leaders who tend to confuse the people with a malicious interpretation of the ketuanan Melayu concept.

He said Malay supremacy was not a "slave and master" relationship.

Instead, Ayub said it was a concept that was long held in the highest regard by people in the country, which was the authority of the Malay Rulers.

"There is no such thing of Malays being the 'master race' while others merely serve as slaves.
"We have a sultan. Our master is the sultan, who rules the states and country. I am disappointed with the current state of racial unity in the country.



"Even the 'ketuanan Melayu' concept is being questioned."

Dr Chua had since claimed that his statement was taken out of context.

"If such was the concept of 'Ketuanan Melayu', then why are there so many Malays suffering from abject poverty?" he asked, adding that Malays had only acquired 18 per cent of the nation's wealth.



Tahir Taat (BN-Bukit Serampang) questioned the sincerity of leaders who claimed to raise such issues for a more united Malaysia.

He said the country's forefathers who fought tooth and nail for independence had clearly understood the concept of ketuanan Melayu.

"It is understandable if such statements come from the opposition.



"But when such words come out from one of our own, then it hurts."



He said the Malay rulers did not see themselves as kings only for the Malays.

Tahir said for example, Sultan Iskandar of Johor had never addressed the Malays as his only subjects.

"Whenever his majesty called upon the rakyat, he would address us as rakyat (people) of Johor.

"He did not address them according to races.

"He is the sultan for all," said Tahir.

As for Datuk Abdul Halim Suleiman (BN-Puteri Wangsa), such disruptive political views could only hinder the democratic process in the country.

He said should such sentiments persist, then the country would be in disarray following irreparable racial rifts.