Malaysians Have Long Been Independent, When Will Politicians Follow Suit?

Malaysian politicians who frequently invoke issues of religion, race, and royalty should be ashamed, as the public increasingly views them as the root cause of disunity, according to a commentary in Utusan Malaysia. The piece highlights social media trends where Malaysians readily assist those in need, regardless of race or religion. Recent viral footage of a Malay motorcyclist helping an elderly, disabled Indian woman cross the road, with others joining in, exemplifies this spirit of humanity. Comments on these posts often praise the public's actions while blaming politicians for creating divisions.

"These politicians need to see how great the morals and ethics of many food delivery riders are," the commentary states, referencing instances where riders pause their work to help stranded motorists or assist the elderly. These everyday acts, it argues, represent the true face of Malaysia, contrasting sharply with the divisive rhetoric often employed in political arenas.

The article criticizes politicians for using "3R" issues (religion, race, royalty) as a political tool to gain support, often by creating narratives of who is offending whom. With Malaysia approaching its 69th year of independence, the author implores politicians to cease exploiting sensitive topics, suggesting they take a break from such issues to see how the nation might progress without their divisive influence.