Phar, Kim Beng and Hamzah, Luthfy (2026) All Malaysians should stand up against the false rhetoric that Malays are being marginalised. The Malay Mail, 2026 (1). pp. 1-6.
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Abstract
This article examines the political, constitutional, and socio-economic implications of narratives claiming that Malays are being marginalised in contemporary Malaysia. It argues that such rhetoric diverts public attention from the country's more pressing structural challenges, including economic competitiveness, demographic ageing, rising living costs, fiscal sustainability, and geopolitical uncertainty. The discussion situates the debate within Malaysia's constitutional framework, emphasising that the special position of the Malays and Bumiputera, the sovereignty of the Malay Rulers, Islam as the religion of the Federation, and the Malay language remain constitutionally protected. The article further contends that portraying non-Malay citizens as adversaries undermines national cohesion and weakens the collective capacity to address shared economic and security challenges. Drawing upon Malaysia's multicultural historical development and the integrative role of Islam in governing diverse societies, it advocates a more inclusive conception of nation-building based on constitutional fidelity, social justice, and shared citizenship. Ultimately, the article concludes that Malaysia's long-term resilience depends less on ethnic competition than on strengthening national unity, institutional trust, and collective economic transformation in an increasingly uncertain regional and global environment.
| Item Type: | Article (Electronic Media) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Malaysia; National Unity; Constitutionalism; Ethnic Relations; Malay Rights |
| Subjects: | J Political Science > JA Political science (General) |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC) Office of the Rector |
| Depositing User: | Mr Muhammad Syameer Luthfy Bin Hamzah |
| Date Deposited: | 01 Aug 2026 11:53 |
| Last Update: | 01 Aug 2026 11:53 |
| Queue Number: | 2026-07-Q4409 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130390 |
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