Towards a developed nation - Sachin Bhanot

"A developed country is one that allows all its citizens to enjoy a free and healthy life in a safe environment."
Kofi Annan, former Secretary General of the United Nations

Are we living in a country where neat sterile rows of 80-storey skyscrapers define development? Or are we living in a nation where development is quantified by the moral and social progress of its people? The definition of a developed nation has (and probably always will be) a contentious issue. But as Malaysians, I feel that we should highlight the issues that we consider significant in defining us as a progressive and culturally mature nation.

The March 2008 elections were pivotal in providing a paradigm shift in the mindset of our leaders and, at the same time, heightening the political awareness amongst Malaysians. This has been echoed by the current administration through their acknowledgement that “the days of government knows best are over”. However, with awareness comes great responsibility. Are Malaysians developing towards an apolitical society, focusing on policies and key issues, or towards a society that believes in political rhetoric and mere gossip?

If we look closely enough, the current administration has seen numerous initiatives come to fruition. Albeit, the road has not been one without its bumps, but then again which isn’t? The recently announced political transformation programme, which witnessed the abolishment of the ISA and the lifting of the three states of emergency, has indeed been a milestone in Malaysian history and has set us on the path towards a mature democratic nation. The recently drafted Affordable Housing Scheme and Animal Welfare Act are also examples of positive initiatives towards national development. And the list really goes on and on...

Now, instead of simply being armchair cynics and apathetic individuals, we as responsible citizens of our nation have a role to play, and a very crucial one indeed. John F Kennedy once famously said, “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country”. It's time Malaysians of all walks of life began to embrace the challenges facing the nation and took it upon themselves to contribute and to be more deeply involved in moving the nation forward. The common man must realise that changes cannot come overnight. Finger-pointing and witch-hunting should not take precedence over rational and objective lines of thought. Credit needs to be given when and where it is rightfully due.

Let's take for example the 1Malaysia concept. The present government is taking significant steps to inculcate racial assimilation and to eliminate racial inequalities in the population. But really, what can such concepts achieve without the co-operation of the people?

One of Malaysia's strengths lies in the diversity of its peoples. A key goal of the 1Malaysia concept is to preserve and enhance unity in this diversity. Therein lies our best hope for the future. In the Malaysian context, racial unity is at the very crux of moulding a developed society. This can be achieved only through an integral change of mindset and with the support of each and every Malaysian, regardless of race or religion.

We have to define our Malaysia and envisage our role in its future. Despite our differences, we share a common desire for a better tomorrow. Let us join hands in exploring our oneness in identity, purpose and direction.


*This piece is the personal opinion or view of the writer. The NRC11 does not endorse this view unless specified.