Don’t let political campaigning destroy Malaysia — Dr Ong Hean Teik

With campaigning for the Galas and Batu Sapi by-elections under way, politicians may do and say controversial things in their attempt get voted into office. The desire to court popularity and approval lingers strongly even amongst retired politicians.

Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, at a dinner organised by the Penang Medical Practitioners Society, spoke of the need to be progressive and work together as one Bangsa Malaysia. A few weeks later, he was at Perkasa meetings and propagating a vision even Umno Youth finds too extreme.

Nevertheless, despite political disagreements, the heads of Perkasa and Umno Youth, Datuk Ibrahim Ali and Khairy Jamaluddin, were able to share a stage, laughing and joking together.

It is thus vitally important for our society’s peace that the public does not get over-excited with the remarks of politicians.

After all, we all actually want the same things, namely a comfortable life for our family and a good future for our children.

It is also important that political expediency does not lead to policies that can adversely affect the country’s future. The announcement at an Umno assembly that History will be made a compulsory subject has now given rise to a debate on how history books should be written.

Parents, meanwhile, are rightly far more worried about the poor command of English and Mathematics amongst our young. Politicians must realise that they should exercise caution in their quest for popularity and votes.

After all, there can be no honour or pride in ruling over a backward, fragmented country.

In facing a globalised market and rapidly advancing China and India, we must not waste time, energy and resources but should concentrate on how best to ensure that Malaysia stays relevant and important in the world.

* Dr Ong Hean Teik is a consultant cardiologist in Penang.