AS our nation observes the 62nd National Day and 56th Malaysia Day, we can draw satisfaction from reaching another milestone in our progress towards a more prosperous polity.
In Southeast Asia, we are probably No. 1 in terms of political sophistication and freedom, as well as free press and free people’s representation.
Our parliamentary system has enabled Malaysia to attain this position as it was responsive to the need for change in May last year, thanks to the people who voted for Pakatan Harapan.
That change occurred after a decade of dismal governance and curtailment of freedom.
We are a much freer and more independent nation than in 1957.
It was only a decade after independence that Malaysia ventured beyond the Commonwealth.
The country began building links with regional nations, starting from Asean’s founding in 1967 and the framework provided by it.
Dialogue partnerships with middle and big powers forged using Asean have enabled Malaysia and the region to boost their peace and security.
Asean, however, remains trapped in government-dominated-and-driven protocol and conference activities.
There is a need for government-led initiatives to foster and realise people-to-people ties.
Asean could start by allocating resources to create and encourage this interaction and cooperation.
Nationals of Asean countries should get to know each other better and accept the reality that there is a competitive world outside the region.
To promote region-wide awareness, the easiest route is to build on the region’s English language capability.
All Asean countries have in the past three decades invested in English education.
There is acceptance that it is the language of Asean communication.
Asean must allow its people to realise the potential available in this region of more than 650 million people.
At the national level, Malaysia has to aspire beyond its low-level achievements.
In terms of democratic political craftsmanship, we are No. 1.
We make loud announcements but lack action.
The government must not continue to dabble in business. It must leave it to entrepreneurs.
Pakatan should select component parties and opposition figures to appraise the country.
In terms of education, health, technological achievements and prospects, it is important that the group consists of members from academia, banking, business and industrial sectors.
They should come out with realistic plans.
Pakatan is more intent on scoring brownie points rather than building a stronger Malaysia.
Malaysians are labouring under low incomes and high cost of living nexus. They are in need of a respite.
DATUK M. SANTHANANABAN
Kajang, Selangor