2018 has been a roller coaster ride in the political arena. Pakatan Harapan taking over the government; political frogs; high profile politicians charged to court; by-elections; nasty and funny statements by ministers; u-turn of decisions has been highlighting the news.
It was also a year that most Malaysians have never been so hopeful for our nation. ‘Malaysia Baru’ as they said. Being a Malaysian, I too have put my hopes on positive changes not only by the Government, but by the nation as a whole.
As we look forward towards the new year, many of us would commit resolutions of our own. Besides personal resolutions, I have put down a list of political resolutions that I wanted to share with fellow Malaysians.
Positive Politics
We have had too much negative politics through the past decade. Character assassination, political gossips, baseless arguments and personal attacks are all too common. Whether it is in the Parliament, the media, social media or even a discussion in a coffee shop could turn into negative vibes. Looking at the relationship between Members of Parliament (MP) despite being from different political parties makes no sense that the political arena looks so negative. The lunch of Khairy, Nurul and Rafizi; and the meet up of Hishamuddin and Azmin’s families in Morocco signifies that politics is indeed positive. It is the irresponsible politicians and people that are causing chaos among Malaysians.
Put an end to the politics of race and religion
Race and religion has been a problem for Malaysia since decades. The issue of Sri Maha Mariamman temple and ICERD are cases that imply the problem still exists; and probably getting worse. We cannot deny that there are problems of poverty, financial constraints, unemployment, education, and other social issues among the people. And these issues are blind towards race or religion. It happens in each race, religion or community. What we need is an economic policy on the basis of income and the inequality between social classes, regardless of race and religion. As we are facing a globalised world, we need to compete with other nations as one; and not cause internal conflicts within.
Drown the voice of extremists
We have no room for extremists that threaten a lady promoting beer legally; kill a firefighter who is on duty; or people who simply threaten others simply because their needs are not fulfilled. We have so much to build, develop and work together for the nation that we don’t have time to solve the unnecessary problems of extremists. The moderates must come together and drown the voices of the extremists.
Political knowledge and awareness
With due credit to many young Malaysians, we have seen an increase of concern about politics and government. Thanks to social media, the youth have started to discuss and take part in the political process, which is voting in the elections. As much as the political awareness brought by social media; it has also impeded the political maturity in the same process. Fake news and half truths particularly in social media has caused many misunderstandings about politics. We must play a role in sharing knowledge about politics and the truth.
Youth empowerment and participation
Although I have mentioned that the youth is now more concerned about politics than ever; but there is still a lack of empowerment and participation. I believe youth should be encouraged and allowed not only to vote in the elections, but to participate actively in the government’s decision making process. Public policies and ideas can be formulated through the views of the young people. They should also be given the opportunity to participate in the governance process so that more would understand the government. Not only will fresher ideas be formulated; but the young people will also make better and informed decisions in the elections when they get more involved.
A Green Economy
When many nations have started worrying about the environment, it is sad but the truth is that many Malaysians are not aware of the threats. Probably it is due to the efforts of Mother Nature has a cost to it, and it is taking convenience away from the people. Paying 20 cents for plastic bags or no-plastics day; banning of smoking in public areas; reducing usage of straws; non-usage of polystyrene products. These are all positive measures, but it may seem like a trouble to some. Our current priority is too focused on development that is causing harm to the green.
Imagine if we can create a ‘green economy’ where we can protect the environment and at the same time generate economic benefits. We should start a conversation about it and begin implementing practical ideas.
An article is definitely not enough to raise my agenda and concerns for the nation. All I can put down are my thoughts of what is critical and important at the moment. Largely, what we need is a brand new politics, a positive politics.
If you share my thoughts, do spend some time and we can brainstorm more ideas and actions.
For the next 365 days, it is up to us on how to write the history of our nation. It is our call whether we are taking action to make things better or just sit and worry about what might happen to us.
Well, to me, action is a must, and we should do it together.
Let us look forward to 2019, and wish you a Happy New Year.