T C Goh
KUALA LUMPUR: The Unity Government, which has governed with reformist resolve for two years, must strive to adopt a strategy which “strengthens internal stability”, before addressing external challenges, said Tan Sri T C Goh.
The Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong) President said this includes effectively addressing “3R” issues—religion, royalty and race—to ensure social harmony, promote unity and enable the nation to face challenges collectively.
“Over the past year, we have been gratified by the country’s political stability, steady economic growth and enhanced international standing. However, we remain concerned and regretful about the provocations stemming from racial and religious extremism.
“In particular, the deliberate manipulation of racial and religious issues by ill-intentioned politicians, stirring controversy out of minor matters to incite division among the people and fragment society, is an unacceptable behavior,” he said this in his New Year’s message today.
He opines that for a multiracial and multiethnic nation like Malaysia, the persistent promotion of “extreme populism” in political conduct is both dangerous and unhealthy.
“Such actions bring challenges to all ethnic groups and must be immediately curbed. In a multiracial nation, politicians, especially those in power, must prioritise “the collective will of the people” as their core value!
“We should advocate for and expand a climate of moderation, rationality, goodwill and inclusivity in society, while fully rejecting and eliminating any ideologies of extremism that provoke and disrupt public harmony,” he emphasised.
He said that, besides the absolute necessity to continue countering extremism and promoting moderation, the Government and the people must also confront a range of livelihood issues together.
Citing pressing issues such as inflation, rising living costs, personal and domestic debt, healthcare and retirement welfare, he said the Government needs to formulate more comprehensive, people-friendly and beneficial policies to better improve the people’s ‘sense of happiness’ and wellbeing in this beautiful country.
“In recent years, regardless of ringgit’s fluctuations, it is an acknowledged fact that the cost of living across all sectors, including food, housing and transportation, has been on a consistent rise. The Government must pay greater attention to these livelihood challenges and address them through diligent governance,” he said.
He cited a recent report by Merdeka Center showed that 65 per cent of Malaysians identified “economic issues” (high living costs, low incomes, unemployment, currency depreciation and poor overall economic conditions) as the country’s biggest problems.
“This reflects the concerns and sentiments of the people,” he said.
On the positive side, the survey also revealed that public satisfaction with the Unity Government’s governance has crossed 54pc. This indicates a passing level of trust and expectations from the people. Therefore, the Government and citizens must collaborate to intensify efforts to reverse unfavorable situations in the new year,” he added.
He went on to note that with Malaysia assuming the role of ASEAN chair in 2025, it will be hosting a host of key international summits, including the ASEAN Summit, ASEAN+3 Summit and the ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit, along with numerous other meetings.
“These events will bring world leaders to our shores, making Malaysia a focal point of global attention.
“We hope that the entire nation will support the Government in hosting of these significant events and seizing the opportunities and business prospects they bring. These occasions not only elevate Malaysia’s international role and image but also bring tangible benefits to the country and its people,” said Goh, who is also President of The Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah (FCAS).
He stressed that against this important backdrop, the Government must continue to guide all ethnic groups in preserving our nation’s cultural integration, religious harmony and unity—values that have been upheld since independence. This ensures that the international community fully recognises Malaysia’s moderate and diverse characteristics.
“This is the correct path for Malaysia to move forward!
“Thus, we urge the Government to continue to unite all political parties, stabilise governance, revitalise the economy, counter extremism and promote moderation to achieve new heights!”
