This Merdeka, choose country over politics

As Malaysia commemorates its 69th Independence Day, it is crucial to reflect on the nation's future and the way we practice politics. While political competition is a fundamental aspect of democracy, it must be governed by certain principles, particularly when dealing with sensitive issues like race and religion. These identities can be powerful tools for politicians to win elections, but at what cost?

In recent years, right-wing populist movements in various countries have successfully tapped into public anxieties and used race, religion, and identity to gain popularity and power. This same pattern is now emerging in Malaysia, with politicians resorting to stoking emotions over these sensitive issues instead of addressing pressing problems like corruption, inequality, and declining trust in institutions.

Social media has exacerbated this problem, making it easier for divisive messages to spread rapidly and with little regard for truth or consequence.

Malaysia has not been immune to these tendencies. There have been instances where senior political leaders have associated corruption with a particular race, and claims have been made that certain communities have other countries to call home. Inflammatory rhetoric surrounding illegal Hindu temples and the use of vernacular schools for political gain are also concerning. The practice of labeling newcomers as "pendatang" is another example of divisive language.

The use of identity politics can be tempting for politicians because it is easier to stir emotions against another community than to tackle complex issues. However, the damage caused by such division can take generations to undo. When politics becomes a race to the bottom through the exploitation of our primal instincts, it erodes the very fabric of our plural society. Trust between Malaysians diminishes, and the country becomes consumed by fighting itself rather than moving forward.

The United States offers a sobering example of the consequences of this trend. While divisions predate even the first Trump administration, years of stoking anger, grievance, and fear have hardened political differences into personal hostility. Many Americans now view those on the other side as enemies, making politics a permanent state of outrage. Malaysia should not assume it is immune to this trend.

During this Merdeka season, some Malaysians may hesitate to fly the Jalur Gemilang out of fear of public shaming or political retribution. However, the flag belongs equally to every Malaysian and must never become a weapon for questioning someone's loyalty. The same sense of shared belonging must guide our politics. While parties should compete vigorously through ideas and policies, there should be a clear line in the sand: no election victory is worth dividing the country.

This is the guardrail we must never cross. As we celebrate Malaysia's independence, let us choose country over politics. Selamat Hari Merdeka!