Identity narrative inseparable from politics - Wan Ahmad Fayhsal

KUBANG PASU - Malaysians can no longer dodge the politicisation of the 3R (race, religion, and royalty) issue.

According to Bersatu Armada chief Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal, the identity narrative is deeply ingrained in the society, making it impossible to separate it from politics.

While acknowledging the existence of identity politics, he cautions against extremism and the labelling of others as infidels, stressing the need for a balanced approach.

“So we cannot belittle this kind of politics as it is a part of our social fabric.

"However, we cannot go too far to be like the Taliban or label other others as infidels,” he said during the Youth Politics Lens dialogue Session at Universiti Utara Malaysia here on Thursday.

Also present were Muda deputy president Amira Aisya Abd Aziz and former Sungai Panjang Assemblyman Datuk Mohd Imran Tamrin.

Ahmad Fayhsal further explains that once politicians assume positions in the government, any form of political extremism tends to dissipate.

He believes that serving the people becomes the priority, transcending party interests.

“Because when you become part of the government, you serve the people, not only your own political party.

"Be it Pas, Bersatu or DAP, civil servants will not once support extremism in governance,” he said.

Contrary to Ahmad Fayhsal's claims, Amira Aisya refutes the notion that politics based on identity benefits the masses.

“Policies based on ethnicity have never aided the community (Malay B40). In my opinion these policies simply benefit the elite.

“Ahmad Fayhsal may talk about change, but I don’t see any change happening according to the leaders they currently have,” she said.

Expressing the need for change, she stressed the importance of youth involvement in politics to bring about meaningful transformations.

Meanwhile, Mohd Imran adds to the discussion by suggesting that the changing political landscape in the nation may be attributed to the progression towards democracy.

“Previously, if we said certain things the wrong way, we could be detained. Further improvements are still necessary,” he said.