PETALING JAYA: Malaysia belongs to all its people, and it is imperative to build a future based on understanding, trust, and common goals, not fear or division, says Roger Yapp.
The MCA ethnic and religious relations bureau deputy chairman urged political leaders to adopt an inclusive and constructive spirit in their statements.
This response follows Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Salleh's remark that "Malaysia will always be the land of the Malays."
"When someone says that Malaysia is 'forever' the land of the Malays, did they ask the native people of Sabah and Sarawak?
"Have they considered the voices of the Kadazan, Dusun, Iban, and Bidayuh?
"I have never disputed Articles 152 and 153 of the Federal Constitution, which establish the Malay language as the national language and the responsibility given to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to safeguard the special position of the Malays and Bumiputeras.
"However, we must also recognise that Malaysia was formed in 1963 with the participation of Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore (which later left), together with the Federation of Malaya," he said in a statement on Monday (May 5).
Yapp reminded that Malaysia is a diverse country formed by various races and regions, including Sabah and Sarawak.
He added that respecting the special position of the Malays does not mean denying the rights and contributions of other races.
He emphasised that the Chinese, Indians, and indigenous communities in Sabah and Sarawak have also contributed to the country's development.
"They were born, raised, worked, and paid taxes here. They also sing the national anthem and respect the national flag."
"Article 153 also states the responsibility to protect the legitimate interests of other communities. This is the spirit of the social contract that is the foundation of the formation of our country," he said.
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Keywords: Roger Yapp, Malaysia, Diversity, Unity, Federal Constitution, Sabah, Sarawak, Social Contract, Ethnic Relations, MCA
