By M.Krishnamoorthy
A former Associate Professor, author, media coach, and journalist
As Malaysian celebrate Merdeka #MalaysiaKita2026 we must be realistic in bringing all races together.
The realistic path is gradual change from race-based entitlement towards assistance based for the genuine need and disadvantage, said Datuk Sankara Nair, a prominent lawyer.
In an interview, he added: “The gradual change must ensure that the poor and vulnerable Malays are not abandoned.”
Sankara stressed: "Malaysians should continue to demand fairness and equality,
“We need to build a Malaysia where every child who genuinely needs help receives it, irrespective of race. Patience is not surrender. It can be the strategy that makes lasting reform possible. Have hope. Malaysia can change carefully, gradually and peacefully.”
However, Sankara added: “Malaysia’s race-based policies have been embedded for more than 60 years. No reform government can dismantle them overnight without risking a severe Malay backlash and possibly losing the very government capable of reform. But doing nothing is also not sustainable.”
“But we must also understand that lasting reform must bring Malays with it, not frighten them into opposing it. The goal is not to take something away from one community,” said Sankara, who was a co-counsel with Karpal Singh acting for PMX Anwar Ibrahim.
PMX Anwar Ibrahim is gradually shifting Malaysia's economic approach toward a needs-based model under the Ekonomi Madani framework. This policy moves away from rigid race-based solutions while preserving core Bumiputera assistance, focusing instead on actual socioeconomic need, targeted fiscal support, and equitable resource distribution across all constituencies.
Freelance Writer M. Krishnamoorthy (https://helloimkrishna.com/) is a media coach, former Associate Professor, and undercover journalist. He has freelanced with Bernama, NST, The Star, and Malaysiakini. He also freelances as a fixer/coordinator for CNN, BBC, German and Australian Television networks, and the New York Times. As an undercover journalist, he has highlighted society's concerns.
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