By now, most Malaysians would've gotten use to the fact that our government applies double standards when it comes to bank loans, scholarships, matriculation college admissions and other privileges etc., even if we don't like it very much.
After the May 13 race riot during the late 60s, affirmative action policies were launched by the government to help the "impoverished" bumiputeras in the economy. That was an understandable response to the nationwide trauma back then but what about now?
Public universities and colleges seem to be admitting less-qualified people as long as they're of the right colour. Scholarships are also given based on ethnicity. So much for 'EVERBODY DESERVES AN EDUCATION'. The most recent case of preferential treatment:
That girl(top picture) who scored 12As(including Biology) in her SPM, is appealing for a scholarship to study medicine overseas from the National Public Service Department. That's not too much to ask for is it? Considering millions of Ringgit are being allocated by the government in this sector. But her application was rejected, and do you know what she was offered instead? Some cheap local course in teaching! You gotta be kidding me. What's worst though, is that it isn't just her alone, thousands of other non-bumiputeras are facing the exact same problem. Critical courses(mostly physical sciences) like medicine, law, pharmacy, dentistry and engineering are only given to bumiputeras while non-bumiputeras are given the rest. Scholarships for the aforementioned critical courses are being awarded to some bumiputeras who don't even have the aptitude or interest to pursue a career in it.
Before i go any further, I'd like to make myself clear that i'm NOT favoring any races in particular nor am i directing this post to anyone. I'm addressing this issue because i sincerely care for my country.
Yes. Affirmative action policies in Malaysia has indeed served this country well by balancing the economic growth and promoting social harmony, something many and i mean MANY other multi-racial nations couldn't achieve. But the long-term effects of this is worrying. Many Malaysian talents are migrating away because they feel under appreciated. There's a HUGE 'brain drain' here leading to countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia etc which further dilutes the already limited workforce.
Our prime minister Najib Tun Razak is correct. Malaysia cannot transform from a middle income into a high income country if we do not do something about these long standing affirmative action policies. I'm not saying that we should have an immediate reform though because this issue should be tackled slowly. We may not resolve this matter anytime soon but surely, somewhere in the future, we will.
