Cover image via themalaysianinsider.com
A group of students calling themselves Anak Muda Harapan Malaysia (AMHM) has written an open letter to the prime minister asking for the abolishment of Malay rights
Led by Fahmi Zainol, the Universiti Malaya student council president who was suspended for organising the Anwar Ibrahim talk in campus, the six-member group is made up of other students from UM
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Anak Muda Harapan Malaysia calls itself a new liberal and moderate movement seeking to bring all Malaysians together. "Malaysians are equal; Muslims or non-Muslims, Malay or non-Malay," says the group.
The open letter that was published on The Malay Mail made 15 recommendations to move towards a better Malaysia. They are:
1. Clearly identify whether Malaysia is an Islamic or secular nation
2. Establish a neutral and transparent commission to review the need for pro-Bumiputera policies and amendment of Article 153 of the Federal Constitution
3. Government-sponsored public discussions to align the dual legal system of civil and Shariah law
4. Public discussion on the question of state secession such as in Sabah and Sarawak
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5. Open discussions on issues like the Malay special rights, vernacular schools and such
AMHM urged the government to abolish the vernacular school system and Malay priviledges.
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6. Efforts to encourage media independence and freedom in Malaysia
AMHM called for a medium that is neutral and non-partisan in Malaysia. To achieve this, a commission for media freedom needs to be established with clear ethical codes. This commission must not be controlled by a political entity.
7. The welfare of Orang Asli in Peninsular Malaysia
AMHM urged the government to step up efforts to increase the standard of living of the aboriginals in Malaysia. Many of these communities live below the poverty line and is subjected to discrimination especially when their homes are destroyed due to widespread logging. They may have a seat on the Senate, but oftentimes they do not have real power in representing their communities.
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8. Establish a commission for law reform
AMHM recommends the establishment of an independent commission to revise the laws of Malaysia that are oppressive and no longer relevant.
9. The need for stronger public space and more Malaysians who dare to speak out
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10. A transparent and stronger management of the economy
AMHM urge the government to improve the nation's economic management and increase its level of transparency. They also encourage the government to participate in the Open Government Partnership (OGP) to be more open, accountable and responsive to citizens.
11. Reinforce Article 152 of the Federal Constitution
12. Review and expand the scope of the History textbooks
AMHM questions how much of the history lessons that are being taught to children are 100% true.
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13. Devise a strategic plan to cope with natural disasters and improve national security
AMHM opines that the authorities were not well-prepared when responding to natural disasters, especially during the [flood crisis](http://bit.ly/aftertheflood) that happens yearly. A strategic and sustainable plan is needed during disaster responses. In light of the three plane tragedies that struck Malaysia in 2014, AMHM also asks the government to review the systems that protect the safety and security of our nation.
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14. Review the plan to build nuclear power plants in Malaysia
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15. Implement a law to separate solid waste in the initial stages
Malaysia is facing a shortage of landfills and incinerators are not the best solution as the burning of solid waste can lead to the emittance of harmful gases like dioxin. AMHM urge the government to look for a better alternative to manage solid waste.
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