Setting politics aside

Sin Chew, June 6, 2016

Sarawak is different from other states due to its racial and religious harmony. And the unique feature has been upheld as an example to emulate by those inside and outside the state.

However, do the Sarawakians really cherish and safeguard our unique feature? Because of different political backgrounds, Sarawakians have not really achieved greater unity. Now with the just concluded Sarawak state election, have Sarawakians awakened to the fact that only through greater unity that they can defend Sarawak in a more robust and effective way?

While there is no need to make a difference between Sarawak, Sabah and West Malaysia, many West Malaysians and Sabahans do feel that Sarawak is more peaceful, harmonious and safer, as it is less chaotic，tumultuous and dangerous. The political, racial and religious atmosphere has been envy to many people.

The beauty of Sarawak is not in-born and cannot be taken for granted. If not safeguarded and protected, the state could become at anytime just like our neighbours, mired in continual turmoil.

Any election, whether it is a general election or state election, is to confer the power to rule but is incongruous with harmony, unity and integration. As a result, it could lead to hate politics because of different political stands. Many political disputes should be resolved politically and should not be blown up and extended to the racial and religious realms, even to our daily lives and affecting our future generations. This is absolutely not something good.

Our parliamentary representatives tend to go strong in politicking, especially when political interests are involved. They have forgotten their original aims that made them join politics and this is something very unfortunate. There are many examples showing that our politicians are more interested in sharing power and benefits, rather than protecting public interest.

Different political stands are based on political interest and not on public welfare. Naturally, the starting point and objective of their struggle are very clear and ultimately, people suffer.

Sarawak is a beautiful land but people in Sarawak want to make it otherwise. With progress and prosperity, social problems could not be avoided. The Sarawak government has no racial and religious baggage and as such, it should have no hidden worries when tackling social issues and improving public welfare as well as protecting the “cleanliness” and tranquility” of the state. However, things are not as what they appear.

The chaotic days of election are over and Sarawak people should return to their positions and lead the state in the forward march with greater unity. They should not be blurred by political issues and lose their direction. It’s time to set aside politics and march forward, hand in hand.