Keep race, religion issues down, focus on economy, experts tell those stirring sentiments

SHAH ALAM - Experts have asked politicians to focus on improving the people's welfare and economy instead of harping on race politics.

International Islamic University Malaysia political analyst Dr Syaza Shukri said Malaysian politics is centred around racial sentiments, causing further polarisation among races.

“I believe the role of the government is to provide clear policies that would guide the country and the people,” she said.

Syaza urged policians to invest their time and efforts on improving the livelihood of all Malaysians.

Political analyst Dr Oh Ei Sun echoed the same, saying politicians ought to revitalised the economy.

Not to mention, the politicians should improve the socio-economic well-being of the people regardless of race.

“Positive racialisation in politics such as efforts to lift up the socioeconomic achievements of a community through empowerment, engagement and opportunities hand in hand with other communities can actually be healthy.

“But negative racialisation in politics such as nasty elite power struggles in the guise of racial advancement to the detriment of other communities, can actually be very harmful to national harmony,” he told Sinar Daily.

He also said politicians should not use race and religion to fish for votes.