Yesterday, a statement by former Selangor chief minister, Muhammad Muhammad Taib, better known as Mat Taib, sparked a lot of reactions from Malaysian netizens on social media.
In his statement, the minister reportedly said that political power in Malaysia should always be in the hands of the Malay majority, while still protecting the rights of other races.
“For me, no other race in the country must be allowed to control political power. The Malays possess only one treasure, and that is political power. The Malays are still unable to acquire economic power,” he stated at a conference at his house on Monday (2nd October), according to Free Malaysia Today.
Source: FMT
Mat Taib went on to say that despite the current “desperate” political situation, that should not be a reason to “burn down the house”.
“I am not a racist but we should make our choice to ensure the security of our children and their children. What other political vehicle can safeguard the Malays apart from Umno?” he continued.
“However, since we live in a multiracial and multi-religious society, we must allow the best from the Chinese and Indian communities to hold high positions.”
“The Chinese can be allowed to control the economy, and the Indians lead in the professions. But the political vehicle must be controlled by the Malays.”
Source: EkEleh Media
The minister previously left Umno in 2011 to join the Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), and later went to opposition party, Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) in 2013. However, he recently rejoined Umno last month after it was announced at a highly-anticipated press conference that was held by Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak on 17th September.
This bold statement did not sit well with many Malaysians from all backgrounds. Malays and non-Malays alike called his comments divisive and regressive.
Source: Facebook
Source: Facebook
Source: Facebook
Some Malaysians however, did understand what Mat Taib meant in his statement, but they also emphasised the importance of a corruption-free government.
Source: Facebook
Source: Facebook
Source: Facebook
Hmm… what do you think of his statement? Let us know in the comments!
Also read: “This Country is Not Poor, You Are the Reason You Are Poor,” Minister Tells Malaysians
