Race politics has shaped Malaysia for decades — but at what long-term cost? Nations thrive when citizenship, not ethnicity, becomes the foundation of unity. As Lee Kuan Yew once said: “This is not a Malay nation, this is not a Chinese nation, this is not an Indian nation, but a nation for Singaporeans.” That clarity strengthened their national identity. This policy statement about Singapore race by Lee Kuan Yew set sight that gave confidence to all Singaporeans to unite Singaporeans together to develop Singapore to what Singapore it is now. Singapore's development is now far ahead of Malaysia.

In Malaysia, however, race-based policies have long created a sense of imbalance. When development priorities are shaped by racial considerations, communities outside the majority often feel left behind. Many Chinese and Indian Malaysians experience this, and in Sarawak, Dayak communities have increasingly voiced their frustrations — asserting their identity not out of hostility, but out of a desire to be heard, respected, and treated fairly.

This imbalance affects more than just politics. It shapes opportunities, trust, and the shared future of all Malaysians. If these issues continue to be ignored, they create pressure beneath the surface — a political time bomb that could lead to deeper division, weakened unity, and a country struggling against itself.

Parti Bumi Kenyalang (PBK) has repeatedly raised concerns about the growing tensions caused by race-based governance in Malaysia. When national policies fail to recognise Sarawak’s unique position, rights, and contributions, frustration naturally grows. If this trend accelerates, Sarawakians will inevitably speak with a louder voice about their future — including the call for separation from Malaysia.

In fact, sentiments for greater autonomy — and even independence — have been rising among Sarawakians. These sentiments are not manufactured; they stem from the historical context of Malaysia’s formation. Separation was discussed as a legitimate possibility during the early Malaysia Plan negotiations, and assurances were given to the Borneo territories that their rights and status would be safeguarded. When those assurances feel eroded, it is only natural that people revisit the question of their political future.

Malaysia deserves better than perpetual division. Policies should uplift all who need help, ensure fair development across every community, and strengthen genuine representation. A Malaysia for all Malaysians — Malay, Chinese, Indian, Dayak, Kadazan, Orang Asli and others — is not just an ideal; it is the only sustainable path forward.

Unity is not achieved through race politics.
Unity is achieved through fairness.

Voon Lee Shan
Parti Bumi Kenyalang