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FORMER Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng believes that boosting the economy by reducing taxation and regulatory costs can help the national unity government defeat the toxic politics of race and religion.
Lim said that the extremism driven by race and religion can be neutralised by generating higher prosperity, sustaining growth and cutting the red tape, which tends to impede economic activities.
"We should also reduce the taxes, utilities, compliance and regulatory costs," said Lim in a statement.
He also suggested that the unity government should share economic benefits equitably, especially among the 17 million workforce.
This can happen by reducing living costs, removing rentier economic practices and crony capitalism, said the Bagan Member of Parliament.
Lim has shared 10 points, including what he sees as stimulus to generate greater growth until it can trickle down to the ground faster and be effective in view of the outcomes from the conclusion of the two biggest Malay parties' gatherings.
From the conclusion of PAS muktamar (gathering) and UMNO’s annual general assembly, it is clear that the duo are projecting their respective politics of religious and racial dominance without respecting the basic spirit and fundamental tenets of the both Federal Constitution and the rule of law.
PAS has reached "new lows" by publicly proposing the barring of non-Muslims from prominent cabinet positions.
Similarly, UMNO is openly working to undermine the unity government it is part of, by trying to accelerate the government’s collapse to save its leaders from the perceived prosecution.
"Malaysians must unite against this dangerous brand of extremist politics and prevent radical policies that can threaten the nation-state embodied in the Federal Constitution."
10 basic pillars can counter both PAS and UMNO by fostering national unity in the diverse society and national integration between Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.
Lim called for upholding the Federal Constitution and the rule of law; defending democracy, including the separation of powers and the autonomy of Sabah and Sarawak, to prevent abuses of power;
Other points included promoting unity in diversity by protecting the constitutional rights of all Malaysians regardless of race, gender, religion or background; and boosting the economy further.
Champion excellence and a merit-based education curriculum in a single examination for all to elevate our declining PISA university rankings; safeguard the environment and cultural heritage; and provide basic healthcare for all.
He also wants the creation of digital education and opportunity available, affordable and accessible to all whilst imposing guardrails against scams and cyber-bullying; and to invest in physical infrastructure that can provide good roads, strong public transport, and reliable power or water supplies. - September 14, 2026.
