Professor AK-47

1-MALAYSIA (ONE MALAYSIA)

Malaysia’s future course appears to have been set by Najib Tun Razak when he assumed the Prime Minister’s position in March. In 1-MALAYSIA he has managed to shape a vision that will carry the country through to 2020. The essence of this concept is contained in one of the nine challenges specified in the VISION 2020 – evolving a united Malaysian nation.

But as is true of the Malay saying, ‘the truth is far from the reality’ (Indah khabar dari rupa), Malaysians have been busy interpreting this in their own ways. Thus far little of the essence embodied in the 1-Malaysia concept has been understood or captured by all.

Three things are essential to really aid our appreciation of what is behind the concept. Firstly it is a statement of strong religious intent, the spirit of attesting to the Oneness of God that should serve as a guide for all Malaysians.

Secondly, it is an evolving formula for UMNO the dominant political party in the country, to institute change from within and survive the new challenges posed by the new situation following upon the 12^th General Elections of March 2008. UMNO can indeed become the United Malaysian National Organisation in the near future instead of the United Malays National Organisation.

Finally, it works as a beacon beckoning all Malaysians to come forth in support of the new strategic direction for the country. Citizens are called upon to rally around this new beginning – the power of one.   

ADOPT THE POWER OF THE PAST, OUT WITH THE FUTURE

Looking at the state of the world now one wonders what works and what won’t. Where do we look for solutions? While many say the future has much in store many believe however the answers for the world’s ills are rooted in the past.

But first let’s take stock. If the solutions we are seeking out lie in ideology, then democracy has proven it has failed. So are the others: totalitarianism, fascism, socialism, Fabianism, Nazism etc. If it is economics, then we are also witness to the demise of the market-controlled economy, centrally-planned economy, and the capitalist-based economy together with the socialist-based political order. If it is the form of Governments, then the one-person Administration has shown more resilience today as compared to the present collegial or two-party governments in existence in many countries. In theoretical terms as well the power matrix still holds sway in international politics. The approaches of post-structuralism have not caught the interest of scholars.

What of the future? Very much of what the past had to offer? Communism will become fashionable once more. Dependencia will attract and imperialism and hegemony will strike out once again. Once-renowned globalism will make way for uni-individualism and religion will assume a more local character: no more the universalism but more the quest for interest-groups looking for an ideology to guide their struggles or causes.

In the final analysis history will prove itself right after all!