WHY I THINK MALAYSIA IS A VIP
(written in 1963, while still an idealistic Form 6student)
On the willingness to share prosperity was the idea of Malaysia conceived. On the staff-pole of a straightforward desire for unity was the fourteen-striped ensign exuberantly hoisted on that 16th day of September 1963. And on the spirit of mutual co-operation did the people of the four territories march reassuringly together to pool in their resources and initiatives, and to crystallise Malaysia into a living reality.
All these will undoubtedly justify anyone, who opines that Malaysia is a Very Important Place, from the accusation of being a victim of blind chauvinism. Moreover, such a cherished opinion has more than once been similarly quoted by so many noted personalities of the world.
The creation of Malaysia was mainly prompted by the earnest and fraternal desire of the Federation of Malaya, to liberate the people of British North Borneo and Singapore from foreign rule. In doing so, she takes a leading hand in embodying these territories into a common fold of freedom, harmony and hope.
With Malaysia, the torch of democracy will extend its beams over a more extensive area. This is significant, if it is realised that encompassing the Malaysia region, are the murky glooms of dictatorship, military administration and pseudo-democracy.
Fortunately we have many responsible statesmen, and a conscientious electorate to make our democracy framework a working practicability. With the solidarity of a popularly and fully elected government, that is fearless of criticisms, unless these violate the tenets of democracy that we so tenaciously uphold, there is no imminence of insidious revolts or military coups. Such uprisings only thrive on instability and discontent. Thus, Malaysia sets a bulwark against both internal subversion and exploitation by rapacious alien forces.
When contrasted with the amoebic existence of the governments of so many neighbours, Malaysia is a Very Important Place indeed.
The cordial atmosphere among the populace sets an example for the rest of the world to emulate. Malaysia is an epitome of congenial unity in diversity. In spite of the widely-differing racial ancestries religious practices, social customs and political affiliations, her people have intermingled with one another. They have relinquished all unnecessary former ties, so as to devote themselves to the moulding of a single national identity, culture and destiny. Malaysia flourishes on tolerance, as racial and religious enmity, persecution or discrimination are virtually non-existent.
It has often been said, that political sovereignty without economic sovereignty is empty in its social meaning. Thus, by being able to satisfy both conditions with the minimum of external aid, Malaysia is important by right. In all her policies, attention is constantly directed towards the fulfillment of the basic needs of a decent livelihood, coupled with certain luxuries for every citizen of the country. With more varied resources controlled by a far-sighted centralised body, as is possible with Malaysia, an even more efficient programme of complementary and collective development could be instituted.
Such is Malaysia as we know it. A consolidated nation formed by willing partners having similar praiseworthy objectives. A promising land, a happy country, and a Very Important Place.
(Submitted for Essay contest during the movie “The VIPs”)
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