Bonding a segmented society

FOR most of its 56 years Malaysia’s segmented society has managed remarkably to preserve peace, tranquillity and development. Lately, however, some intractable religious and racial disputes have besmirched the gentle face of our land. We must maintain a sense of balance.

Disagreements are natural: Human interaction is impossible without some conflict. The more free and democratic a society is, the more likelihood latent dissatisfaction will come to the fore! This is what is happening in Malaysia’s evolving democracy. As freedom takes root and knowledge of constitutional rights spreads, views and values are expressed, often with belligerence.