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Ethnic Relations in Malaysia: The Need for “Constant Repair” in the Spirit of Muhibbah

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Handbook of Ethnic Conflict

Part of the book series: International and Cultural Psychology ((ICUP))

Malaysia Chapter Summary

Munusamy portrays a relatively peaceful Malaysia with a theme of unity underlying the nation’s leadership since independence was achieved. Historical review reveals constant takeover attempts by different colonial powers which are attributed to Malaysia’s unique and valuable qualities. Recognition of the change in demographic under British rule, due to importation of labor, is credited with influencing current interethnic relations. As the people of Malaysia began revolts for independence, the author elucidates the bases of historical and current tensions.

Unity is identified as the British prerequisite for independence initially achieved, but transient as political parties formed around ethnic identification. The lack of interethnic violence in Malaysia is viewed as engendering an inaccurate perception of success with regard to ethnic relations. Exploration of the various policies implemented in order to equalize distribution of wealth reveals limited success and causal factors are proffered. The author describes the most recent policy along with challenges that need to be addressed for successful implementation. Signs of protest and increasing tensions are presented providing stimulus for change.

Munusamy offers specific solutions to reach lasting harmony utilizing a holistic method, while recognizing the continuing effort required for resolution of multicultural issues. The fashion in which policies are executed and evaluated is also viewed as an important consideration for success. Discussion of factors associated with effective change informs the methods that may function best in Malaysia. The author believes that a revival of the true spirit of tolerance would create a positive atmosphere in which interethnic relations may improve.

Cheryl Jorgensen

This chapter was based on author’s dissertation Munusamy (2008), which won the Dissertation of the Year award from the Academy of Management (CMS), Rae and Dr. Dan Landis Outstanding Dissertation Award from the International Academy for Intercultural Research and the finalist Harry and Pola Triandis award from the International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    http://bangkok.sawadee.com/airport/index.html.

  2. 2.

    http://mynadi.wordpress.com/tamil-schools/.

  3. 3.

    Please see Malaysian: The Way Forward (Vision 2020) http://unpan1.un.org/intradoc/groups/public/documents/apcity/unpan003223.pdf.

  4. 4.

    http://www.sun2surf.com/article.cfm?id=15779.

  5. 5.

    Please see “New Economic Model For Malaysia: Part 1” available at http://www.neac.gov.my/sites/default/files/NEM%20for%20Malaysia%20-%20Part%20I.pdf.

  6. 6.

    http://www.sun2surf.com/article.cfm?id=15037.

  7. 7.

    http://blog.limkitsiang.com/2007/03/21/million-­malaysian-brain-drain-a-national-disaster/.

  8. 8.

    http://www.asiasentinel.com/index.php?option=com_­content&task=view&id=2308&Itemid=199.

  9. 9.

    http://www.dapmalaysia.org/english/2006/april06/lks/lks3854.htm.

  10. 10.

    http://www.indianmalaysian.com/memo_to_pm.htm.

  11. 11.

    http://www.epu.gov.my/html/themes/epu/images/­common/pdf/eco_stat/pdf/1.2.5.pdf; Anand, 1983.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Intercultural Leadership Centre, Asia, Singapore, Singapore

    Vijayan P. Munusamy

Authors
  1. Vijayan P. Munusamy
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Correspondence to Vijayan P. Munusamy .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Dept. Psychology, University of Hawaii, Hilo, W. Kawili 200, Hilo, 96720, Hawaii, USA

    Dan Landis

  2. Dept. Communication Studies, University of Minnesota, Church St. SE., 224, Minneapolis, 55455, Minnesota, USA

    Rosita D. Albert

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Munusamy, V.P. (2012). Ethnic Relations in Malaysia: The Need for “Constant Repair” in the Spirit of Muhibbah. In: Landis, D., Albert, R. (eds) Handbook of Ethnic Conflict. International and Cultural Psychology. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-0448-4_6

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