Migration as Protest: Why Malaysians Are Leaving
By Farish A. Noor ~ December 1st, 2009. Filed under: TOM_Main, The Other Malaysia.
According to Malaysia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kohilan Pillay, the number of Malaysians who have decided to up their roots and emigrate abroad has almost doubled this year. 3,800 Malaysians have given up their citizenship and simply opted to leave the country of their birth. Furthermore it has been noted that almost half of those who have left are professionals who have chosen to seek greener pastures abroad, citing better pay and working opportunities as well as marriage as the most common reasons given. Malaysia is the loser in this sorry equation, and though the right-wing communitarians among us used to quip ‘if you dont like it, leave it’, this sorry reply will sooner or later be exposed for the vain boast that it is. For Malaysians are indeed leaving, and many of them happen to be among the most precious human resource that the country cannot afford to lose.
For what is a nation, and what is Malaysia?
Malaysia, it has to be remembered is not a patch of land where the mountains and trees realise that they happen to be part of a nation they are not even members of. Neither do the roads, bridges, buildings and flagpoles that litter our urban landscape make up the essence of what is Malaysia.
Malaysia is made up of Malaysians, and if and when there are no more Malaysian-minded Malaysians left then we might as well turn the lights off and call it quits. Malaysia exists as an idea, an ideal and a value only when there are enough people who regard themselves as Malaysians first, and who place citizenship and national belonging above all other concerns of ethnicity and communitarian politics. And right now, many of those Malaysians are heading for the exit.
What is interesting for the historian here is that this pattern of migration mirrors the modes of passive mass protest of old, dating back to the pre-modern and pre-colonial era when Kings were Gods (Dewarajas) and where there was no such thing as a nationalism and national identity. Loyalties were bound to kingship, and rule was affected through force and violence. In the pre-modern polities of Southeast Asia, democracy was an alien and distant concept and politics was likewise absent as there was no independent public domain and no public participation in governance. In short, power was absolute and absolutely monopolised by the ruler and the ruling elite.
Our poor ancestors realised that theirs was a sorry lot. Under the best of circumstances they might have been lucky enough to live under a benevolent ruler who was wise enough to share the riches of the land, or at least not tax and plunder his helpless subjects into total subjection and poverty. At worse, some rulers were despotic and almost homicidally so, slaughtering their own subjects, forcing them into forms of debt bondage and slavery, taxing their meagre earnings and grinding down the few bright sparks and independent-minded individuals among them. The Hikayats of old are replete with such stories of wanton oppression at the hands of tyrants and egomaniacs, and the poor people of the Indonesian-Malay archipelago were left with little in the form of effective resistance.
After all, what could one do if one happened to be one of the unfortunate subjects of a vainglorious God-King/Dewaraja? Vote the king out? There was no such thing as voting with one’s hands, and so the only form of resistance was to vote with one’s feet, and to leave.
This explains in part the fluid character of the pre-modern polities of Southeast Asia in the past, where kingdoms would rise and fall according to the performance of the rulers themselves. Wise and benevolent rulers would attract more and more migrants to his realm, for the word would spread that a wise and benevolent king rules there.
But tyrants would soon find themselves deserted, and their kingdoms would falter and decline thanks to the modes of passive resistance that included reduction of work and production, and eventually migration and depopulation. Ironically, despite the vast repertoire of the symbols of sacred power that the God-kings had at their disposal, even they could not stop their people from leaving in the dead of night to better climes and safer lands. In an age where polities depended on human resources and where there were rarely any substantial standing armies, migration was one of the most powerful forms of passive resistance that was available to the ordinary people of Southeast Asia.
So from that historical perspective we may want to look at what is happening in Malaysia today. The outflow of human resource - the most precious possession that any country can claim - is perhaps one of the few political acts that the ordinary citizen can perform today. The country loses, and we all lose too in the process. But the ruling elite in Malaysia today has to ask itself this simple question: If and when so many Malaysians chose to leave the country of their birth, what were the factors that prompted them to do so, and what could the elite have done to win and retain their confidence in the Malaysian project. Set against this context, all talk of a ‘United Malaysia’, ‘One Malaysia’, ‘Malaysian Malaysia’ seems stale and ineffectual.
Malaysia is most in danger not when it is invaded, but when Malaysians themselves have lost faith in it. And for that loss of faith in the national project, we have no-one else to blame save the politicians of the country themselves.
December 1st, 2009 at 20:45
Hitting the nail on the head.. is that the correct idiom?
Well that’s just it isn’t it? Unfortunately, despite my idealism (or is it because of?), I too have plans to leave…
December 1st, 2009 at 22:28
When I heard the bit of news over the radio, I thought to myself, I too am seeking my passage out. Malaysia, I love you with every drop of my blood, but I have lost faith in you because of those who govern you.
This migration comes as no surprise. It’s on everyone’s lips, especially those with the qualifications and the finances to move lock stock and barrel and like the immigrants status we are forced to remind ourselves, we will flourish wherever we go.
Malaysia where will you be when your children have abandoned you because firstly you abandoned their dreams for you!
December 2nd, 2009 at 01:39
The tipping point may have been crossed! The crass stupidity of the ministers is plain for all to see. If the leaders are clueless then the cats will be getting fat. The corrupted can get away with anything! If as reported our government is trying to manage perceptions instead of hard and honest implementation of policies then we are already done for. And if Bank Negara is not doing anything to stem the illegal ouflow of capital arising from corruption then we are going to see spiraling inflation soon. Chow might not be a bad idea!
December 2nd, 2009 at 02:17
This is a good example if 1Malaysia - those who leave are all within the big 4 racial groups. When it comes to good governance and fair play we all want the same thing. Perhaps we should consider ourselves lucky that the (then) education system prepared us to be global citizens.
My ancestors left Siam and Sumatra because of the better life to be had in British Penang. Their descendants might do the same.
December 2nd, 2009 at 02:20
I would fully encourage all Indians and Chinese to leave malaysia..for good..
it is not worth it ..with all the Islamisation and race talk..better get out than get caught in this filth of talak, wif swapping and becomeing a melayu just by changing your religion…after you are dead..and grabbing your babies and your body…..
December 2nd, 2009 at 02:46
It is a great aritcle. it stirs alot of emotions in me. the drain of eductated indviduals is a big challenge for all underdeveloped countries, such as Malaysia, China, Egypt etc..
people mostly migrate in the pursuit of better life and better opprtunites that they could not find in their home country. surprisingly, many of them achieve success in their new countries and when some of them become very successful and famous, you find their people in their homecoutry feel proud of them. Even politcians could mention to their names as they bring bride to their home countries. so why they did not remember them when they were among them!!
In this context, I remembered what the grat Iraqi poet Ahmed Matr once said about the Arab world. He said: “when the one declares his intelligence in the Arab world, so he is stupid”.
the question that always in mind is: if we are not happy with our reality, so how can we chane it to be much better? how can we shift our societies from the bottom to be in the top?
Every time, I walk around or drive in Singapore, I feel angry when I compare this country to some countries in the Middle east. i talk to my self that we can be much better than other countries if we exploit what we have rightly. But it is easier said than done.
I doubt that rationality excits in relaity apart from what some theorists believe. many politicans in those countries seem irrational and irresponsible. they do what they have done, while they think they are right one hundred percent. whears the majority have very limited political horizons. besides, they are very suspicious about any calls for democracy from abroad…
so how can we change?!!
some think that is the role of cultured elites in those societies to enlighten their own people, but again it is not easy. the ruling people know how to disappont any attepmts for a change.
I know that my words seem to be very gloomy, but at leat this is rather the sad truth.
nowdays as a result of globalization, the world certainly became a small village(kampung). so it not so important wherever you live in, as long as you can keep in contact with your country and you can practise your religion and ritual tradiotions.
in my point of view, migration is merely one phenomenon of the big truble which is the political corruption that led to all problems in all respects.
the question that manifests itself here is what is the most likely Malaysian race that have inclination to migrate?
I do not have any data, bit i guess they are mostly Chines and Indians and less likely Malay.
December 2nd, 2009 at 03:18
I lived in this country for 30 years, i hoped that it would be a better place someday but going trough the days here makes me think and ask questions… is there a greener patch somewhere? My logic mind is telling me its who i choose to become but my heart tells me its where i am which will decide my fate and sad to say … Malaysia is just 1 step of a failed country… Things have changed so much yet situations still remain the same. The constant presure from life around and the ever so dividing race & religion makes me believe so. Who is to blame for this? Is it worth fighting? I am confident that if i am able to survive here… for sure i will be good where i will be next. The next GE will be judgement day for me… what will it be for you?
December 2nd, 2009 at 03:44
I owe allegience to democracy and fairness. If both are dead, I will leave. This statement basically sums up the minds of those who have packed up or are packing. We all have ears and eyes to help our brains make that decision.
Human decency teaches us that it is not proper to overstay in a house where you are “guest”.
Because, it is only a house. It is not your home.
December 2nd, 2009 at 05:40
I have been in New York for about 11 years now. Why did i migrate? It’s simple -
I Love Malaysia, But she don’t love me,
and it’s all because I’m a non-bumi
No matter what I do, however smart I am
I’ll always be a second class citizen
December 2nd, 2009 at 06:23
Farish, this is my 10th year in Sydney, Australia. I couldn’t take it anymore that everything in Malaysia was based on race and religion. I cannot trust that I can make it on my own merit without having to kowtow to some rich Datuk, some ministry or a Chinese towkeh. I wanted to make it based on my intelligence.
Its no bed of roses here. But at least I can say “I did it my way”. I came back for Raya, and its the same old same old. Money everywhere but people are still poor. It seems that being in Malaysia means losing your humanity by not caring or selling your soul to the powers that be.
Had a chat with some UMNO boys. All they seem to care about is Saiful’s butthole than the national economy. UMNO can do no wrong they say - but i see plenty wrong everywhere.
Am I part of the problem ? I don’t know. Should I have been one of the underdogs to be stepped on for rest of my life or should I be like my dad and lament - “I rather be a second class citizen in my country than in another country”. I’m sorry, I want more. Call me greedy but what the pittance UMNO gives is not enough. I want my future kids to grow up to own Malaysia. I want my son to have the same right to be a PM like every other child regardless of race. I can see it happening in Australia - but not in Malaysia.
AK.
December 2nd, 2009 at 06:53
Well written. I have migrated some years ago. You know what, Since democratic constitutional rights have not been respected by the “law”. Do not be surprised one day, you will be prohibited from leaving the country, or a huge departure tax will be imposed. Do it before it is too late.
December 2nd, 2009 at 07:31
Please, there is a major/minor mistake: 3800 would not be much. I think the number was actually 380000, but concatenated one way or another.
December 2nd, 2009 at 08:00
I left with RM$25,000 20 years ago. I now live in a MR$3 million house, drive a MR$250,000 car and my kids go to a great school. I am free, respected and was given citizenshp on a platter. I am grateful to my new country. I am even more grateful to the UMNO government in Malaysia for telling me to fu*k off as I was bangsa asing. I certainly do not cry for Malaysia. In fact I have not visited it since I left…no need as I was allowed to bring my parents, siblings, etc as migrants as well.
December 2nd, 2009 at 08:03
those malaysians still left,let’s resolve to change the present umno/bn in the next GE13.we have given them our trust for the past 50 years and they have failed us!it is not too late and believe me we shall see a brighter and better malaysia once this is done.the price of change is high but it is never an option!knowing the characters like TG nik aziz,lim guan eng,sivarasah,anwar,tian chua,nurul izzah,husam musa,shaari sungib…and all the likes,i think the time is ripe and lets put malaysia back into the world’s map,glorified and respected!
December 2nd, 2009 at 08:43
“….was no independent public domain and no public participation in governance. In short, power was absolute and absolutely monopolised by the ruler and the ruling elite.”
Wouldn’t you say Malaysia, under UMNO, can be described as above?
All government institutions are under the beck and call of UMNO. Now we have reached a stage where UMNO has the license even to commit murder.
When the people’s last bastion of defense - the Judiciary - has been emasculated by UMNO, what is left for us the common man.
When Muslims ‘bully’ non-Muslims such that we have no right even to bury a corpse. Or when Muslims can snatch away our children and our property!!!
Today, the utterly corrupt, rapist, kidnappers and murderers are called patriots and those fight the oppressors are called traitors.
It is for the above reasons I have asked my two children - both professionals (one with a Masters degree) - NOT to return to Malaysia ……………….. unless UMNO and BN is overthrown and the UMNO leaders, AG, IGP and a few judges are put in jail.
December 2nd, 2009 at 09:09
This reminds me a lot of how East Germans used to migrate in the droves out of the country! I think soon enough, UMNO putras will build a wall all round the country to prevent anyone leaving!
There is no future in this country if your name does not contain a bin/binti or if you don’t have an obligation to fulfill on a Friday afternoon. Why oh why did we let that racist mamak come to power? Tunku saw that he was no good.
December 2nd, 2009 at 09:33
Firstly great article Farish.
I have recently abandoned Malaysia purely because I fear for my future here. Added to the political uncertainty it a loss of faith. In not just government but every aspect of society. Look at our education system, and a glance at our “leaders” what hope is there for this country?
I am not a gambling man and very have been emigrating is the only sure option here.
Sadly the middle and lower class will always be the whipping boys
while the rich grow fatter.
I love Malaysia but I can’t gamble my future on a hope thing will get better.
December 2nd, 2009 at 09:38
I left 10 years ago.
It was a painful decision. But Malaysia,
as much as I loved it then, did not give a
hoot whether I live or die. There was always
this feeling that I was not welcome. A
‘pendatang’…
In my mind, the worst of the lot were the
civil servants. They are not ’servants’
but ‘kings’ and ‘queens’ consisting
largely of racists.
December 2nd, 2009 at 09:45
I am Malay by definition but a lot of mixed blood by origin. I speak Arabic better than the Ustaz but was still considered not holy enough because I have many non-Muslim friends. I migrated 4 years ago. Life here is not a bed of roses but the people here obey the law. I am respected for what I am not for who I know. My family is very happy. I call upon more Malays to also migrate. The present set of leaders are good for nothing. To my non-Malay friends, we empathize with you. I did not chase you out but the idiotic political leaders did. Yes let’s tell all our friends to migrate to greener pastures. We can do well without being subservient to idiots in Malaysia.
December 2nd, 2009 at 09:51
I got the shivers when reading through the article. This is how my body signals me for something great ahead. Yours is truly a well written and unbiased assessment of the migration problem Malaysia is facing.
It would seem to me that we have unwittingly put in place an unwritten policy promoting replacement of knowledge workers with labour workers. Unfortunately, I am afraid that some vocal minority may even think that “less man is more share”.
Alex
December 2nd, 2009 at 10:22
You think the ruling elite cares? This is all intentional. Less men more share! And they all live for the day. And we all think they are stupid for spilling out insane and stupid comments or rhetorics? You are all wrong! They are smarter than you think they are! In fact, they are way smarter than you!
The only solution to turn this country around is a bloody revolt and that cannot happen unless and until the average ahmad and nizam (who is educated) cannot bring food to the table.
Thanks to UMNO/BN/BTN that have made the malays all to think the same. AND the worst is, it is not the race to be blamed. It is the current ruling elite to have intentionally made it that way.
AND the reality is that, when all these 90% tax contributors leave the country (which form the bulk of the intelligentsia and high income earners), all the Government servants will have nothing to eat and the government will be bankrupt. And that’s when a revolt will start.
This country has failed. It will take 40 to 60 years to correct itself, if it ever will.
And my message to the average malay (who have been brainwashed) - If you think that the minorities are a threat to your lives as what UMNO/BN and BTN have been repeatedly drumming into your heads, then you are very wrong.
Like a faithful dog, if your master treats you well, you will always be indebted. But if the opposite happens, why should the dog even care if its master is in a deep hole.
The moral of the story is, I will have no qualms about walking away from this mess if the situation arises. And the fact is, the minority is about the only ones that are productive (fact lies in the tax payable by them).
So, my malay brethren, please wake up before it is too late. You hold the driver’s seat, not us, the minorities. Whatever it is, we have always been there to have contributed to your better lives today, not the NEP and the government for all these years - as proven by the income tax statistics, and by the same extrapolation, all other state and federal taxes.
Most oil monies never really got down to the man on the street. They remain the elite’s money.
I love Malaysia, but Malaysia never loved me. It has come to a point now in my life when my survival intincts kick in, i.e., when the elite continues to plunder our wealth, why should I even bother. And they have so rightly said so, if I don’t like it just leave - And bloody leave I will, with all my hard earned blood money.
And for all those years that I have paid my taxes so that you, my malay brethren can stay afloat, I am only to be branded as a threat to your lives.
And if each of us leaves this country with a million ringgit a head, for the 450K or so who have migrated out (in the last two years since 2007), it translates to 450 Billion ringgit. AND that excludes the elite plunderers, plundering our wealth all these years? Go figure that out for what it means! Trillions USD all these years?
And that also explains why most of you malays drive protons and below. You have been misled and put into a deep hole that you can never get out. The longer it is, the harder for you to climb out of that hole as it can only get deeper.
The minorities have worked so hard so that they can have a better live and at the same time support your lives. And Umno/BN/BTN have the cheek to insinuate (or blatantlysaid so?) that the minorities are a threat to your lives. Sad, so sad.
And finally, the minorities are getting smaller by the day. There will come a day when the minorities cannot even support themselves, not to mention what’s going to happen to the majority - as has been witnessed in the last 10 years. This is when the shit will hits the fan.
Please all wake up!
December 2nd, 2009 at 11:09
wow, so many want to migrate! The down side would be, the Malays will become less united and less nationalist. Ahwell
December 2nd, 2009 at 11:20
I was in Perth for tour during May this year and we went to a town called Mandurah. I was surprised to see that there are 3 Chinese Restaurants there with 2 of them belong to Malaysians. I spoke to one of the owner and noted that he came from Ipoh more than 10 years ago.
I myself remained a Malaysian even when I have stayed in Singapore for more than 30 years. I am married to a Singaporean and children with Singapore citizenship. The only thing pulling me back from converting is my root as a Malaysian. It is really not easy to make a decision to convert your citizenship, there is always a conflict with the sense of loyalty to the country of your origin.
For one to convert to citizenship of other country, one must really consider hard because he is foregoing his identity. Only extremity will drive people to such drastic action. To me, it is only delusion over the treatment by their own countrymen which will lead to such decision.
Malaysia while promoting its multi-culturalism, has always been a country of Apartheid. The worst is that the privilledged group who govern is with such incompetence and yet demand exotic treatment. What’s more reason can one give to proof of delusions of hope?
December 2nd, 2009 at 13:16
Born here , lived here n raised here ,,, But I have no future here ,, and I dunt see any changes coming ,… wat shall I do .. Rote here or save the future of my children’s by running away ???
This is watz goin on , on everyone’s mind now …
December 2nd, 2009 at 14:12
Think of migrating too. Still clueless where to start. Anybody dare to help me??
December 2nd, 2009 at 14:58
The comment from “You think they care?” is absolutely right!
All you cows lament about being unfairly treated, that your pussies hurt, no one loves me - here’s an idea: wake up! the world’s smallest violin is playing, no one cares for you, not me, and certainly not the ruling elites.
You whine. You bitch. But ask yourselves, what did you do about it?? Did you vote? OK, big deal. Did you canvass votes?? Are you in active in any political movements? Did you try to make a change - however small?? If you answered no to any of the above, here - take a pussy pill and don’t let the door hit you on your way out.
What we need is not more conversations, more dialogues, more NGOs, more whatever. We need courage. Yeah, COURAGE. If you don’t have it, get it. Grow a pair! Stop whining! Do something - ANYTHING! To effect change, don’t count on others. Do it yourself. Set the example. Voice your displeasure. Go to jail fighting for what you believe in. Hell, shed some blood while you’re at it. DO SOMETHING!
Alas, Msians are bunch of whiny pussies crying and bitching all the time. You want change? - GO GET IT, FIGHT for it. SACRIFICE! If you’re not willing to, emigrate and STFU!
December 2nd, 2009 at 15:17
Hidy, Just visit any of the migration agents as advertised in the local papers and they will run you through free of charge for the first time.
December 2nd, 2009 at 16:26
Thinking of migrating lately maybe to down under, Perth could be an ideal. Heard lot of Malaysian and Singaporean already set up “kampung” over there. Just need a little times more to do it, hit few more big projects and then adios Malaysia the land of hypocrites.
December 2nd, 2009 at 17:14
Like many Malaysians I have left 4 yrs ago. I told myself that’s it when Mahathir stepped down. There are no more quality leaders. Further more when I tried to make a complain to some public services I was told ” Kalau tak suka balik lah ke China” That was the last straw…I told my husband there is not much future in this country. The whole education system is stuff up. The politicians who make decisions do not really care on quality and standard of our education. Well they are not bothered because all their kids are in International Sch or overseas.
In malaysia we are being treated as second class citizen. When paying tax we are being treated equally.
Here, university placement are by merits and even with permanent resident status we are entitle to all benefits.
Article well written. Malaysia desperately needing people like you who are open minded
December 2nd, 2009 at 17:50
The world is changing as we are becoming more and more globalized today. Everybody have their right to be wherever they want to be. If you think Malaysia is like a sinking ship, then leave. Go on, look for the greener pasture. You don’t have to give excuses or blame others.
Me? I would rather stay to serve the rakyat in need regardless of creed and race. With “the intelligentsia and high income earners” leaving, the ones left would be made up largely of those of lower economic status or middle class income.
I would also do my best to change the status quo. I’m all against the racial discrimination policy and I’m against racism as well. I may not contribute much, but at least I realized that I have the obligation to stay and do my part.
At the end of the day, the choice is yours…
December 2nd, 2009 at 19:25
Fei Mao ,
Better going elsewhere then being sitting around mamak stall and complaining all your life. At least we did something for our family. What exactly you do ? I have seen buggers like you. You waste all your life complaining and not doing anything about it at all. In fact part of the reason UMNO still exist is because of people like you. You think so long as there is money in your pocket its all good. Well, its not good enough! You want to live like a beggar in Malaysia go ahead. At least some of us have plans for our family.
AK
December 2nd, 2009 at 20:22
Until Malaysia goes broke, the UMNO dictators won’t give a damn with the departure of non-Malays.
It will be easier for them to lord over the plebians when there are no rich Chinese or voracious Indians to deal with.
December 2nd, 2009 at 21:55
My parents toiled and sweated hoping their children will have a better future. I work hard too, but at end of the day I feel I don’t have a home,that welcome me home. Can this home continue to prosper if his own people are losing faith?
I am still hanging with hope, one day we will have good and upright leaders.
December 2nd, 2009 at 23:16
Migration only works today when you have the money and resources.
All you commenters disgust me.
December 3rd, 2009 at 01:46
I’m half Malay, and am proud of that heritage. I love the multiracial culture, the history, the food, and the forests. My Malay father’s government job contributed to my education, allowed me to live overseas, learn numerous languages, and get a professional degree.
But I didn’t fit.
I left because I objected to the abuse of the bumiputra policies, and the attendant corruption, but mostly I left because of religious issues.
I do not care to practice Islam (nor anything other religion for that matter - I find them all equally odious). I have no problem with other’s believing what they want, but constantly having it shoved down my throat, and the threat of punishment for non-compliance, always having to look over my shoulder or wait for that tap.
I’m still a Malaysian, after 20 years of living overseas, but I’m considering changing that. My wife (who I met in Malaysia) is caucasian and non-Malaysian. My children (who are 3/4 european, but would qualify as Malays just because my father was) are also not Malaysians, nor will they ever be, for reasons stated above.
When I tell people that I’m in Malaysian, the usual response is “You don’t LOOK Malaysian!” Firstly, it’s because I’m only half Malay, but secondly, it’s because the Malaysia face in my country of residence is a Chinese face - because they’re all leaving - for education, political, social, financial reasons.
It is not just the politics, but the religious issues that drive people away. bnn-Muslims are threatened by it, and the fact that Islam is tied to being a Malay (or being married to a Malay) is a divisive factor that will always alienate non-Malays and people who think like I do, and make them feel unwelcome.
December 3rd, 2009 at 05:54
T-Boy,
Please read the excellent article again carefully. There are two messages there. The first one is a warning for the hypocritical and unprincipled ruling class who are still living in their fools’ paradise. The other is for those who cannot stand them, and this includes most of the commentators here. For that immature rant of yours that all these commentators disgust you, I take it that you are just a young boy. Let me give you some advice. You don’t need a lot of money and resources to migrate. Just get yourself a good education/qualification and you will be welcome by many countries. The nearest and easiest is Singapore, where I have been the last 30 years. Life here is not easy, but if you make it (like many ex-Malaysian friends of mine) you know it’s your own ability. And if you don’t you will also know that it’s no one else’s fault but yours. If you read all those who bothered to comment on the article to share their sad and painful experiences you cannot fail but to feel the agony they went through before they made their heart-wrenching decisions to migrate. If you are not as young as I thought you are then you should wake up and think deeply about what has been written by all these commentators.
December 3rd, 2009 at 14:48
Majority of Malaysians migrated overseas remains as Malaysian citizen because of their love for this country. Malaysia continue to be their motherland. Many of them follow closely the social and political developments in Malaysia. I find that the people who strongly criticize the racist government, are the people who dearly love Malaysia. Many of them cry for Malaysia. They are hoping for a change in the government. Election Commission should allow them to exercise their right to vote during the general election. A government that is fair and just will be able to bring many families back to Malaysia; those who can’t come back will continue to support Malaysia morally and financially.
December 5th, 2009 at 00:35
I’m planning to go back. My grandfather got kicked out of China by the communists, I don’t think we’re going to let anybody else scare us away after that… I’m staying in Singapore (hopefully not for long, it’s boring here) but registered to vote at my parents’ address and if there is a GE, I will take leave - or go AWOL if necessary - and go back to Penang to cast my vote.
A lady I met said that if all the Malaysians in her company had gone home during the last GE, 80% of the managers would have been on leave…which I took to mean that they *didn’t* go home. Come on guys we’re talking about the fate of our country, you can get out of the office for one or two days.
People find it astonishing that I chose to leave the USA when I did all of my undergrad and postgrad education there and am marrying an American. Well I don’t like the lifestyle and I don’t like (some of) their values and I don’t like the stereotype of Asian girl marries white guy and settles down to be his docile little trophy wife. But it’s really hard to explain to some people that regardless of the MASSIVE problems that we are facing, I still see a lot of value in Malaysia and I think it’s worth going back to.
December 5th, 2009 at 17:45
I think this issue about Malaysians migrating has to be looked at in a more global perspective.
People move all the time. Not just Malaysians. Everybody move. It is the way of the world nowadays. People love to travel and being an “Expat” is very much in vogue right now. It carries a certain amount of prestige. Don’t you think?
People move for many different reason and people call it by different names. Traveling is one. Visiting is another. Extended vacation, Cari Makan, Making money, Earning a living, etc. “Migrating” has such a permanent connotation to it.
But one thing for sure, as a person who has been “traveling” for the last 10 years, I am definitely NOT migrating to another country. Most of the time the country I always think of “migrating” to is, Malaysia. I just miss it. If I can get the same salary and benefits in Malaysia that I can get overseas, why would I want to leave? This is true for many of us “expats” be it Malaysian, Indonesian, Indian, Venezuelan, Colombian, etc. Mainly the ones from a third world or developing country like Malaysia.
But that’s not going to happen anytime soon, so why stay? I am going to make my money somewhere else and “migrate” to Malaysia for my retirement. And guess what. So are many of my non-malaysian collegues who happen to think that Malaysia has the right balance of everything that they consider a great place to live.
Politics? Leave that to the politicians. BN/PAS/UMNO/PKR/DAP/MIC/Hidraf/MCA/ Democrats/Republicans… they’ll screw it up any which way you look at it.
December 6th, 2009 at 20:41
Is Msia really losing its “brains”? Think about it. What Msia is really losing is a bunch of ungrateful, unpatriotic SOBs who really don’t give a hoot about anybody else but themselves. I say good riddance… and don’t come back.
The last I looked Msia’s is still a pretty nice place to live, people can still get a quality life here. Granted some things can be better but overall its pretty good. I know a lot worst places to be born in.
December 10th, 2009 at 19:19
Dear Rina,
I wish you would at least mention the nation that was so good to allow everybody to leave and migrate there.
I feel like a hypocrite. I successfully got all out but am still stuck here like an idiot due to earlier moves; bagage … you will call it cos i don’t know that beautiful land where everybody is welcomed.
December 11th, 2009 at 00:02
to all u migrating pussies,
yeah go to UK, US, Europe, wateva. u’re ancestors themselves r traitor to their countries ie India/China. history keeps repeating itself. u’re no different then your nenek moyang. raping this country for good n leave it when u see u cannot cari makan lg. just admit it. u guys who migrate r just a bunch of opportunists. yes, we dont want u here. u’re a liability. if this country goes to war, ur lot r the perfect candidate to be a talibarut. so go n never come back. we hv no regret.
PS : farish, dont put word in our mouth. u r a disgrace to the malays as far as i know.
December 11th, 2009 at 17:54
I know a lot of Malaysian’s who have migrated to Britain, and are not returning. People that went there for training / jobs / education, and then decided that the meritocracy there suited them far better.
It’s interesting that Vietnam recently tried to woo migrants back to their country, another society where there is real issues with people being who they want to be, and little chance to get ahead unless you know the right people.
December 12th, 2009 at 08:47
my take on on subject issue,
,,,opportunities are everywhere and there are openings to suit everyone and others that match individual ways and resources. Making things happen and the seizures of opportunities have much to do with timing. Those with talents should capitalise on them while those lacking them should work and survive in areas where talents are not chief cornerstones for success. Unfortunately some of those without luck, talents and other blessings may resort to cunning and ruthlessness. A sad departure from religion and virtues, a path which too often leads to an eventual downfall. Perhaps by blaming the world at large and targeting nation states, religion, race and culture.
,,,if you run after happiness, you may be running away from it, it is inside you. Your mind is your door to well-bring, because happiness hangs around how you think and feel. It does not matter if you are in this country or else where !. Don’t try too hard to change others, or to change the world, make the change within oneself and learn to let go, instead of being stubbornly right but unhappy.
,,,once you have seen happiness as an inside job, now go anywhere outside to complete the picture. BUT don’t be self-centred. There is little meaning or purpose if you exist on your own. Just go out and explore plus discover the many secrets of this world and universe.
,,,action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action.
,,,so some wants to find a new home away to a new country or stay within, what’s stopping you, just do it and find out BUT don’t blame the world for it. Its your life, have ownership and individual accountability and responsibility for your actions. Just STOP the blame game.
,,,,Generally, we need a sense of belonging to our family, our society and our Creator.(if you don’t have these in you, you are in big trouble anywhere you are !….. And may God bless you.)
December 16th, 2009 at 19:24
I left Malaysia more than 30 years ago after I had failed my Malay exam at Form Five, despite scoring distinctions in all other subjects. Strangely though, I am still attached to Malaysia after all these years. I visited Malaysia regularly over all these years. I have invested in a string of properties there, which turned out to be bad investments. I often ponder over my poor judgement track records in Malaysia. The properties are all fine but their prices just stay flat. Ha! Only now I know the reasons why Malaysian properties are so cheap because the home owners there are abandong ship!
December 22nd, 2009 at 06:39
Hi, just want to share this poem written by a friend of mine who fell in love with someone, but unfortunately she’s planning to migrate once she finished her study. He knows that the relationship won’t work, yet he is still hoping. Sigh, this is another aspect of life that has been affected badly by racism and discrimination.
p.s. He is a Malay chap.
========
She’s Leaving…
I
She’s leaving
‘Here’ is not for her kind
That’s what they say
That’s what we did
That’s what we ARE doing
And that’s what I regret
Why can’t we just get along with each other?
II
Oh how I wish I had a chance to tell her,
Before it’s too late…
That it’s not of fair complexion and dark shiny hair
That it’s not just out of mere sympathy
That it does not stop at “mata” – it fell deep into “hati”
But time is not on my side
And I’m not that good either…
III
Grass is always greener on the other side of “fence”
But ‘here’ is where I was born,
Though it’s “hujan batu” ‘here’,
Though it’s “hujan emas” there.
I have a whole world to go to,
But at the end of day,
‘Here’ is where I turn to, be it “thick” or “thin”.
IV
Though it’s just a “passport” away,
But I don’t think it’ll work for both of us,
Hm… wait!
Come to think about it,
Even I myself wasn’t sure
Am I “bertepuk sebelah tangan” or not in the first place!
Perhaps it’s just a far-fetched dream which can never be realized.
V
Maybe I am thinking too much,
Perhaps I’m just wasting my time,
Longing for something that is near-impossible
Should I give up and move on to the next chapter?
Or should I stand up and be heard?
An honest “NO” is not something that can be easily swallowed,
But if that’s the answer, what more can I say?
I’ll just have to accept it and keep on moving…
Hoping that somehow “yes” will appear of all sudden and then my whole world would turn upside down with joy…
The clock is ticking, and…
She’s leaving…
December 23rd, 2009 at 00:00
[...] countries like Singapore, Australia and Britain through mass emigration, a process described as “passive resistance” by the eloquent Farish Noor in his blog The Other [...]
December 27th, 2009 at 09:51
below is what i’m foreseeing:
1) the population percentage of non-bumi will continue to shrink faster than now - the professionals and experts will continue to migrate to overseas
2) the bottom society class is formed by immigrants from the neighboring countries - you know who they are
3) the majority population will suffer from stiff household expenses (cut in subsidies), lesser education opportunities (cut in overseas scholarships) & wider income disparity despite they hold absolute power
4) more than half of the national projects is rotten but corruptions continue - could become an unspoken practice - it’s a norm
5) lost of FDI to other merging economies - we are no longer a competitive country, with less or none of natural resources
January 8th, 2010 at 16:44
malaysians migrating is a non-issue la guys….what’s the fuss????thousands if not millions of indians, chinese, filipinos, pakistanis, indonesians have left their own countries over the years…….
January 10th, 2010 at 01:53
The resent burning of churches is probably the last straw for me. I will leave Malaysia with great sadness in my heart over the loss of vision I once had for this land. Malaysia has been so blessed by Allah with natural resources, fine weather, fertile land, beautiful sights and peaceful loving people. When did the slide start? How did we allow politics to drag us down to the brink of economic distress and a people who are losing their faith. Alas, Malaysia, is there hope for you?
January 10th, 2010 at 23:46
malaysian politics have been screwed up since the first day itself.. political parties are being established on the grounds of races, which leaders in political parties always used as a weapon, to stir up racial sentiments to gain support for their own benefits..
the concept of having one race called malaysian failed from the first day itself as well.. how are we supposed to feel like we are all malaysians when there are no tolerance between races and politicians constantly stirring up racial sentiments to remind malays that they are the one who truly belongs here and constantly reminds chinese and indians that they are merely immigrants. the way i see it, there is no light at the end of the tunnel as to this situation.
Besides, current government are toying with our basic human rights like freedom of speech, freedom of association just to protect their interest. Any actions seen to be threatening the current government are quickly dismissed as illegal and people are being detained without trial. Fundamental part of democracy and rule of law are threatened to the core. on the surface we may seem like a country who practice democracy but they are still a lot of things left to be noticed by all citizens.
The current government is stretching the citizen’s patience in this country and retaliation may lie ahead. The way i see it, another riot may just happen any moment, due to discontent to the current government. Of cause, with the government being associated with the malay race, any movement to oust the government will be seen as an act to oust the malay race itself.. we can already brace ourself for the worse to come and when do the worse do come, we may have to even scramble for our lives..
why are some of us leaving this country?? you tell me..
January 13th, 2010 at 14:13
I’m a professional Bumi who grew up in Australia and Malaysia. I made the easiest decision to move my family to Oz in 2008 and we have been extremely happy ever since. Every day makes sense to us, the Australian Govt takes care of us and quality of life has improved dramatically.
To me, Its not about what you can do for your country, but what is the best for your family’s future and ideals.
January 15th, 2010 at 04:37
i like this statement “Malaysia while promoting its multi-culturalism, has always been a country of Apartheid” or how about this one “Malaysia is a tolerant country.. ya right.. we the minority have to tolerate..! i have been trying to leave too…
after all in this country i am a pendatang, a keling, a 2nd class citizen sorry make that a 3rd class citizen..! these days so easy for indonesians to get (buy) mykad..!
why bother..? most of my friends have left.. those that r here want to but can’t b’coz of family issues or age..!
thinklah ppl.. after 50yrs still so many issues with the country but look how much money they are wasting.. this is not a malay or chinese or indian issue.. its a malaysian issue..!
now they use religion to get votes so they can stay in power,
well take yr 1malaysia and stuff it where the sun don’t shinelah..!
now just to wait a year or so b4 leaving this so call god fearing country.. malays have a saying.. cakap tak serupa bikin..!
January 15th, 2010 at 18:11
The vast majority of ‘Malaysians’ who opted to leave for another country have lost faith in the the ability of political leaders to do the right thing;of course the obvious culprits are UMNO,MCA,MIC and other Barisan component parties who have led Malaysia up the garden path.
Very rightly,many believe we’re just one ‘mis-step’ away from becoming another Failed Islamic State.
It is one thing to put up a facade of ‘national unity’ to the outside world but quite another different story emerges when one peers under that thin veneer.
Unfortunately there seems to be more things pulling Malaysians apart than together. I have this strange feeling of a failed experiment of nationhood that never stood a chance.
Instead of a shared destiny,a common fate or even just a journey or destination,we seem to have been bundled reluctantly into a bus that is going nowhere.
Do you now understand why the country is starting to fall apart at the seams?
Very strange but very interesting………..
Apartheid,Nazism,Xenophobia,Racism.Extremists,UMNO ultras,Chinese and Indian ‘pendatangs’,Dayaks,Kadazans,Bidayuhs,Malays,great mix of ‘Malays’ of Arab,Javanese,Sumatran,Yemeni,Turkish,Chinese,Indian,Celebese,Imbonese,Mongolian descent, Mamaks,Nonyas, allah mak…..one can go on and on….all rojak lah, this place we call home but so many don’t feel at home…home sweet home…home is where your heart is,don’t you know?
farewell,farewell, parting is such sweet sorrow,,,,,
fare thee well……….for never the twain shall meet
it must be very painful for you,Farish, to be called a traitor to your race and religion
but if those who forment hatred,jealousy and all things evil should ever win,it will be a very dark world indeed
we cry for our country of birth, a country we love for its food,nasi lemak,makcik,char kuay teow,roti canai,durians,kuching laksa,
and so much promise and hope
what went wrong? BN,BTN,UMNO? i don’t know………i don’t know…..
January 15th, 2010 at 21:26
If only Malaysia allows Malaysians to have dual citizenship like most muslim, european countries those 3800 people won’t give up their citizenship. I have been staying here in UK for the past 10 years, very much missing my country birth but thinking about the cost of living in KL is just unbearable! The costs is merely the same here in UK but earning is far more better than what you earn in KL. This is the fact that makes thinking twice about moving back to KL. Property value in Malaysia is just rediculous! even at the urban areas such as Terengganu, Perlis and other areas. Do not touch about KL, its just too annoying! So how am I going to switch back there when the value of things around you in Malaysia keep rising and rising? How can you justify your earning in Malaysia with a basic life demands? I can buy a BMW 7 series 2004 for maximum 9000 pound. How much is it in Malaysia? So how then eh! The tax is just absurd! Malaysia is a very nice country to live in but money is part of life and Malaysia sucks when comes to this part! I’m sure many of us whose living abroad thinking about going home, but only when they earn enough to make their life better in Malaysia. But to achieve the goals is just too big when comes to reality. Its just too big amount to achieve. So some end up living abroad for longer years. And to justify the luxury living comparing to Malaysia, is like 5 to 10 times harder to yearn it. Material is what everyone is on about now anyway so don’t deny. I wish I can live simpler but simpler as well means money! Yes lifes a bitch all the way up to your arse! About politics, “macam budak-budak, budak-budak pun menang!” so immature, so sensitive, so spoilt, brats and corky! Its time to slap around and make a wake up calls.
January 17th, 2010 at 22:16
I have thank my wife who kicked me in the head nine years ago to migrate. It was not easy at first to settle in a new country, environment and compete in the job market. However, it is all worth it at the end, even we have to start from zero in a new country. No more rogue policemen demanding “coffee money” to “settle” traffic offences, racism and absolutely corrupted government.
The end result of migrating to other country (e.g. Australia, New Zealand, USA, etc), life is beautiful and blissful. We enjoy peace of mind, superb lifestyle quality, low crime rate, clean government. Besides that my kids enjoy world class education in public school (teach to student ration is 1:15 in grammar school, not 1:50 in Malaysia) which is far more superior that the “private schools” in Malaysia, fair and equal academic opportunity.
BTW, the starting salary for Police is $57,000 per year; not RM560 per month; so that pretty much tell us who some country policemen are so corrupted (they have to survive too to feed a family)
I have good grades in school but never been granted a scholarship to pursue my studies in overseas. But with my “father’s scholarship” I enjoy and earned two professional degrees from the USA. It was fortunate that my late father had planned well and prepared to fund my entire studies. After graduating and worked in overseas for about 10 years I returned to my home country. I found that race and religion is the main factors for one to be a successful engineer or to climb the corporate ladder.
Teachers are paid between $40,000 to $65,000 or more each year (not RM850 per month), thus it shows which government really cares to nurture and educate their young citizen. Please search the internet for world’s top 100 or top 500 university for a reality check.
Free medical care by “real” medical doctors, full dental care for children up to 18 years old guaranteed by the Government. No need to pay “AP” price for expensive European cars (you can see people driving Porsche and use coin-operated public laundry!). You can get a used a 9 year-old Mercedes E280 for less than $9,000!
If you family income is less than $75,000 you are entitle to text refund (around $189 a week!), each child gets weekly allowance from the government (ranges from $85 up to $150 per week per child). In Malaysia, you are lucky if you can keep the family going.
If you cannot afford a house, you can rent from the Government; stay in $400,000 state house (yes, three or four rooms) for a weekly rental of $170 to $200! When you are retrenched; rest assure you will get unemployment benefit, family living allowance, hardship subsidies (open to all residents and citizen; not based on race or religion).
You must ask me, are you talking about Heaven? No, I am talking about a good, efficient government where all tax revenues are clearly accounted for; money well spend and distributed to its citizen. How can a corrupted government take care of its people and their well-beings?
Look, stop dreaming and start taking action. We have gone through a nightmares living in our former “motherland” (where future is bleak and extremely limited) and we make sure that our children will not suffer the same experience; after all, parents brings their kids to this world; therefore they must ensure that the kids are given a fair chance to lead a good quality life.
Due to the recent global economy recession, many truly world class countries are closing their doors for new migrants. If you are above 45 years old, forget about Australia; to migrated to UK, you must be UK-qualified in terms of education and have a existing job in UK. University degree and experience is no guarantee to be accepted for migration to these country (they too have to guard their boarder, if not there will be 3.8 millions illegal Indonesians slip into the country!); you must also possess the skill they wanted (English is a must), very importantly you must proof that you have the local experience, you employer must proof that he needs a skill worker like you in that country.
Do you know which country I am talking about to migrate? The former Prime Minister even gets summon to go to court because her entourage exceeded the speed limit during official duties (i.e. driving the Prime Minister at 105 km/h, exceeds the speed limit of 100 km/h)? See the link http://www.mercer.com/qualityofliving, numbers don’t tell lies!
Below is what I found on the net about countries and corruption:
Corruption index scores
High score equals least corrupt, low score equals most corrupt
2009 rank
Country/Territory-CPI 2009 Score-CPI 2008 score
1 New Zealand 9.4 9.3
2 Denmark 9.3 9.3
3 Singapore 9.2 9.2
3 Sweden 9.2 9.3
5 Switzerland 9 9
6 Finland 8.9 9
6 Netherlands 8.9 8.9
8 Australia 8.7 8.7
8 Canada 8.7 8.7
8 Iceland 8.7 8.9
11 Norway 8.6 7.9
12 Hong Kong 8.2 8.1
56 Malaysia 4.5 5.1
January 20th, 2010 at 01:44
I share some of my experiences here. I have been studied and worked in UK for 7 years. A few months ago I decided to come back because to be a part to contribute a little to my people and next generation rather to contribute to british people. 9 out of 10 people asking why want to come back to this shit hole. Well, first you can’t compare uk and malaysia because they really have proper manner to behave like a modern human. But I always thinking I am one of the very smart human in the planet that confident for me to come back here to bet my life and change, because I think if I start people will follow and next 30 years I want to see people around the world coming to my country for job. I have a professional job and getting good money. Sometimes i just want to shout to some people in malaysia ‘WAKE UP YOU STUPID IDIOT’. Why don’t you never try then u give up or scare in future you son will be muslim, no future for you children, etc. From our PM said 1 malaysian, that is very good kick off. We need to change and make sure everyone is the same and fair. If you are really smart, create jobs for everyone, bring business into malaysia, change the politic, then in future your children will have more hope here. I am coming back here because malaysia make me feel like home, with same people, u will be much happier. I like challenge and tough that’s why make me to come back here. remember one thing, thing is hard to get, you always want to get it, when u have everything there, you don’t give a fuck anymore, eventually you are thinking to come back and build your world for your people (all malaysian)!! For me my enemy is not different races in malaysia, are people outside malaysia. Come on malaysian!
January 20th, 2010 at 02:20
For me, if you are smart, you are person to do the tough thing, changing mindset of malaysian, rather than choosing the easy option running away to other country and let the westerner treat you as CHEAP LABOUR doesn’t matter you get a lot more than in malaysia. Where is your PRIDE! your kids born there will be cheap as well because you are not white! How you going to tell you kid?? It is like this because we are useless asian in angmo place. just a joke! Westerners are very good in BRAIN WASH our asian people, if you have some sense, think very carefully what I said is that right or not. I am an malaysian, that’s the fact. you and I can’t change to white, so just accept it and take more action to change malaysia and stop blaming! I am coming back to malaysia so I prepare to sacrifice my life here even though I know I will be killed if you are too smart. But think it back, if you are really that smart, you won’t let people to kill you that easy!
January 20th, 2010 at 11:00
dear all,
,,,lets not be naive and indeed the ‘corrupt culture’ in our country must be put to a dead stop. The injustice to the ordinary rakyat must be addressed by matured and honest leadership. This is the message everyone is telling the war lords holding on their power base !. The rakyat has a role to play here too, firstly to educate our children and our friends plus fellow citizens. Our votes counts and change in mindset is indeed happening right now. For those that are away, i hope for the best to you guys and families but many of us are here to stay, come what may. But we shall continue with our struggles to make it right for the future generation as well as for the nation. Its indeed, a BIG challenge and we shall never give up for the love of the nation. This nation is our nation, the rakyat not the bloody corrupted politicians or bad individuals. Don’t get me wrong, its an individual decision to stay and fight or do it else where since its an individual decision plus responsibility. NEVER end up with the BLAME GAME is my take-lah.
,,,Sure there are issues/bad experience etc etc,,,,never easy either here in our own country or others to make oneself accepted as one. Make the best of your skills and talents to survive in this world. Make full use of any opportunities and capitalize on your strength and improve on your weakness. Just because some have left the country, it does not mean that they/you cannot contribute via their experience and advise etc, in fact its most welcome as educative responses from my take of it. Again fellow malaysian don’t look down or bad against ex-malaysian for that matter. Thank them for the advise/sharing too….no one owns anyone anything, its the individual responsibility to himself and family that has top priority b4 one can talk about for any nation for that matter, just be practical and not get carried away with emotional bad feelings, it only make one’s life and living sad. In fact, we should all help each other to make this a better world. Leaving or staying put is really not a big issue, its what oneself makes out of it does, anywhere any place on this tiny earth.
,,,just be a responsible adult while you are at it, don’t fall prey to corruption or crime to humanity. My best wishes to all again, fellow malaysin or ex-malaysian or becoming one, it does not matter, please make the best out of it and may God Almighty bless you all too.
Cheers, guys and do indeed have a good day….lets add value to the day too ?. So tonight at end of your day, just review your day-lah. Everyday comes to an end, contribute positively in anyway b4 the next day !. if no way, sorry you have wasted your day. …..its gone away !. that’s is my way.
Everyday is a new day and i will make it my day.
January 20th, 2010 at 16:51
John Doe, glad that you are liking NZ.
Yes I studied here and am now contributing tax here and is also taking part in the political process here– voting!
If you appreciate the NZ lifestyle, I’m sure you will reap much of the rewards
January 20th, 2010 at 17:22
Many Malaysians have lost faith in the nation simply because it no longer stand united and racial sentiments are thrown everywhere - indirectly. Just look at the protest from the results from the judiciary that “Allah” can be used by the Catholic publication. But let us not go there for the arguments may come from all directions - again.
Anyway, Wake Up Malaysian, it is not wrong for you to think that Malaysians should have patriotism instilled in them but perhaps you have to look at it from another perspective. A lot of people choose to migrate because of better prospects abroad and the life it offers even though one has to start from square one.
Comparisons can be made with working in Kuala Lumpur and others working abroad and times have changed - the cost of living in Malaysia has shot up even if one is only living and working in sleepy hollows. Even for basic necessities, one would feel the pinch. Just throw in a normal bottle of shampoo, a set of three bars of soap, cereal boxes, a carton of milk, etcetera, the bill would come piling high. Let us not even go to the point whereby someday, somewhere, we can make millions here.
Corruption in this country is another thing. Yes, of course the government said we need to get rid of corruption from the system but are their initiatives working … Well, sadly, no. For me, corruption is rising and crime rates are escalating at the same time.
Wake Up Malaysian, you had the opportunity to work and study abroad and many would have killed to be in your position. But you decided to throw it away to come back to your homeland which no one would complain about but they would automatically think why - why did you throw in the towel and waste such an opportunity.
I am sure that those living abroad would have wanted to come home. But the question that looms in their head is - is it worth it to throw everything they have achieved abroad to come back here knowing that it would not be the same ( the government, the system, public transportation, cost of living, etcetera ) and face the wrath of comparing both countries all the time?
No.
Even those who went holidaying abroad can notice the difference between the so called “angmoh” countries and our homeland. Income generators are slowly migrating, that is for sure. It is for their future generation, knowing that there are no prospects of living in their homeland. This is what people do, to ensure their own survival and to offer their families better options.
And if the government cherishes its people, they would not have made empty promises and would automatically strive to improve the way of living here. But they chose not to but to give alluding statements that indirectly causes disunity among the three races.
January 21st, 2010 at 03:33
dear all,
,,,the politicians in Malaysia still lack in its ‘political will’ plus honest leadership and that i think is our biggest challenge !. just talk but nil action to follow through and just for their basic survival rather for the nation and rakyat in general.
,,,we the rakyat must stand united and find new leaders to lead the country. its our responsibility for he future of the new generation plus nation.
,,,our voting rights must not be manupilated by corrupted evil minded politicians. taken for a long long 52 years ride to nowhere by racist type of politicians with the ‘othering’ mentality which is destroying the future of the nation and its people just for some hidden agenda and evil intentions of elite few war lords kind of politicians from both side of the camps.
,,,in fact, too many political parties, just far too many indeed !. A complete reform of political parties set-up should also be considered in-order for change be made to the nation state of affairs.
,,,Disbanding of all existing political parties under the Royal Command from the Agong would start the ball rolling, if i may suggest as 1st ACTION.
,,,Selection of UNDERTAKER governing unit lead by selected professional be in place until a new elected Political party comes into play as elected by the rakyat under free and fair condition.
,,,RELIGIOUS type of party also be prohibited but religious set-up be in place to cater for these kind of activities concerning all religions in the country plus with their elected council members to advise the government of religious issue or subejt matter keep them separated from politics in governing the nation.
,,,A two party system to be considered for Malaysia rather than this groupings of too many political racist and othering type of set-ups.
,,,Selection criteria and vettings of all politicians to be carried out too. Only those without criminal records or related back ground can participate in politics.
,,,geee…we need a major CHANGE plus REFORM !!….my take lah.
January 21st, 2010 at 03:38
,,,sorry, CARETAKER governing unit…hehehe !!
January 23rd, 2010 at 09:35
try shooting arrows at the sea …………wake up malaysian; and you’ll know what we mean
malaysia will continue to be malaysia for better or for worse,make no mistake; there are just those who don’t feel like staying in the neighbourhood anymore and have just chosen to move to a better place
even tho we were born in the country or a particular place,it doesn’t mean we need to be forever beholden to it,especially when we have idiots for political leaders who are supposed to serve the country but enrich themselvs instead and public servants who are sorry excuses for fools,who thrive on inverse racism and religious bigotry!!!
So why should we feel like part of a country when leaders of a particular ‘race’ continually draw their puny little knives and ask you to f**k off whenever they feel like it
those who have taken that advice must have thought long n hard about it and have done so not with their tails between their legs but with a million inverted middle fingers behind their backs
and guess what the million who have done so will say to the world about a malaysia run by an UMNO full of bigoted,corrupt,jew-hating wannabe nazis who thrive on using the race and religion cards to stir disunity on the one hand but are too cowardly to admit it on the other? one malaysia?
good luck and thanks for the (bad) memories
January 26th, 2010 at 00:33
If there is even a glimmer (of hope) for a future in Malaysia, I think many would have stayed on. Unfortunately, in Malaysia, the Malay politics and the Islamic religion posed such an insurmountable obstacle that one would be subservient to live in politically and financially corrupt country like Malaysia.
I would rather be a cheap labor in a “foreign land” that I now call my first and only home than be an oppressed person in the land I was born because I am not a Malay (but a non-Malay bumiputra) and not a Muslim. At least, if it is a glass ceiling, you have a hope that one day you may break it, if not cracked it. In Malaysia, that ceiling is a bunker-style 2 ft thick self-healing concrete ceiling. You will break your head and die without ever breaking that ceiling, not even with a bunker-busting cluster bomb!
Nevertheless, in this country that I came to obtain my university degree, I have yet to sniff racial politics or being a cheap labor. I have lived in this country longer than I have lived in Malaysia. All my kids were born in this country, received first class education and my eldest son, although just completed the first semester of his first year university program was selected and offered a full scholarship research position at a medical research lab in a prestigious world-class university.
To have that kind of opportunity in Malaysia, it will be a dream that will never ever come true. I work for a 300,000+ employee MNC as a consultant and according to government statistics, I am in the top 10% earning bracket. So no! If you are willing to tough it out, get a good education (albeit father’s scholarship), good attitude, positive outlook, you can make it good in this country. And no, you don’t need an AP license, dabbled in politics or get an Ali Baba contract to make it here. O’Canada! This is heaven to me.
January 26th, 2010 at 10:30
Having followed this thread for quite some time, I notice there’s one question that’s been glaringly absent: Who is fit to take over leadership of this country? Pakatan Rakyat? Do you really think a coalition made up of parties with completely different ideals is going to be able to unite themselves let alone the country? Right now they’ve got a common goal - ousting BN. But if history always repeats itself then the future does NOT look good.
Remember the Malaysian Communist Party? When the Japanese were here the MCP; like Pakatan Rakyat, had a common goal with everyone else - ousting the Japanese. Once the Japanese were gone however so was that common goal. We all know what happened next…
Even if that doesn’t happen it still begs the question - now how? You might be able to change a govenrment with one election but changing people’s mentality? That’s a whole different story. Can the Malays stop being so insecure and dependent on their privelages? Can the Chinese stop being so selfish and money minded? Can the Indians stop quarreling amongst themselves? Will everyone be willing & able to put communal issues aside and instead make national interests their priority?
Lets say that does happen there’s still the issue of time. From the point a new government takes over, this is the timeline of change most likely to take place:
First batch of 5 years: Cleaning up all the garbage that has accumulated over the years.
Second batch of 5 years: Planting new seeds i.e. new policies, laws, infrastructures, etc.,
Third batch of 5 years: Watering & tending those seeds
Fourth batch of 5 years: Seeds grow into trees and start to bear fruit
As you can see, it will take at least 20 years (remember this is from the point of a new government being installed) before any kind of significant change can be seen. And in all that time do you honestly think the ousted BN is going quietly sit by the side and twiddle their thumbs? All its going to take is for them to play up some issue or other (they’re grandmasters at that), get back their 2/3 majority and Malaysia will be back at square one.
When you put it on paper like this you begin to see just how bleak the situation is. Malaysians migrate and continue to do so because this country got infected with a cancer a long time ago which continued to spread unchecked and uncontrolled. And like any cancer, once it spreads beyond a certain point there is no chance of curing it.
Then again nothing is impossible.
What do you think? Would greatly appreciate some opinions on this matter.
January 26th, 2010 at 15:11
indeed some arrogency and not counting on God’s blessing ?. May He has mercy on you on Judgement Day for you to see….for Spiritually zzzz from what we see and for having a living soul in Hell for all to see ?. Geeez. shame on you buddy !.
January 26th, 2010 at 21:29
dear guys,
,,,all of these recent events, further demonstrate our psychological relationship within the context of our typical malaysian neo-feudal psychology and ruling UMNO/BN feudal thinking and values,,,,,, kind of-lah !.
,,,as such the ‘expectation’ of the rakyat’s loyalty to the elite leadership, divinity and kingship in the realm of their modern Dewarajas concept ?. Reminding the rakyat on its greater consequence in the relationship between the rulers and their subjects on selective discourse to suit their hidden agendas via concept of adat orientation/derhaka or treason against the ruler for instance as a mean for the elites to further perpetuate and hold on to power or rule ?.
,,,perhaps feudal minded malaysians are finally trying to free themselves from their burden of traditional plus historical baggage that unfortunately may have stunted our political development with changing times in this global world ?.
,,,again some still lacks the rational, objective and democratic language to put across in the reform/change process, which indeed is happening right now across the nation.
…yes indeed, go ahead in your/our enlightenment to the rakyat in general but please find the right words to explain ?.
,,, however please don’t be ‘kurang ajar’ would be best too yaa !?
……..and may God Al’mighty bless all of you wheresoever you are.
February 14th, 2010 at 21:38
I am a Malaysian but left for Shanghai in 2003, three years after I graduate. Although I am in another country, I am still very concerned about what happened in Malaysia all times. But things got worst as the years goes by. While other places like China would go Big - Beijing Olympics 2008, World Expo Shanghai, Malaysia still continue to fight for small things little things which is so meaningless and so shameful for Malaysians.
Even China was a communist country, they really treat the nation as “One”. I envy the chinese sometimes. Take away the corruption topic, which happens everywhere, the nation was treated as one nation. Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen all worked hand in hand to become the fastest growing nation in the world. They dont fight over petty little things like Malaysia do.
When I meet Malaysians in China, we say, “No eyes see.. glad we left already”. Sad but true.
The Chinese always think highly of Malaysia. When I was asked where was I from I would always pretend to be very proud and say “Malaysia” and they would always say “wow, nice and comfortable country!” But for me, I will be thinking, how long more will this good impression of our country take to dissapear.
I will not be here today if I have not left Malaysia. I am sorry to say but If I am still in Malaysia today, I will be full of regrets for not leaving earlier.
February 16th, 2010 at 12:29
Hi Farish,
Interesting topic, i can feel the emotional tango in them, love at the same time, hate. Well, at least MALAYSIA had given them freedom of choice. in which some `other people` are not privileged to. It`s not premature to say that most of them had done well overseas and thus they have the right to comment. How about the unfortunate? wish we could hear their bitter experience too. By then we could make a wise judgement. Malaysia is still a young nation compared to China or India or even USA. The dynamic of political chaos in Malaysia is normal as faced by these nations before. Don`t worry even a clown keep on improving their joke`s. It`s not going to be the same“three stooges` jokes all year round. At least they are inventing a new one. Be happy with the country you are living in now, not everybody have the privilege of luck that you had. To move or not to move is a matter of survival, it not a joke to laugh at. MY HUMBLE OPINION: TQ
February 22nd, 2010 at 02:29
If Malaysians feel a sense of loss, tell their children not to come home from overseas, or are making plans to emigrate, it is not because they do not love this country or are ungrateful for tarred roads and bridges. It is because they feel the erosion of the institutional infrastructure of our society. Institutional intangibles such as the rule of law, accountability and transparency are the basis of a people’s confidence in their society.
I totally blame this on the existing government lack in politcal will to reform the country. You guys at Putrajaya is just too selfish to think for the rest of us peace loving malaysians and for the nation at large.
Just wait for GE 13 and you will see. You will end up being just a rakyat like the rest of us BUT never be accepted as one since you are still selfish. Let the MACC finish you off and we will be waiting to see.
February 23rd, 2010 at 10:15
People migrate for many reasons. Not all are purely economic, though that does play a part to the extent that wherever one lives one needs the necessities of life. Of the comments above I note that the most recent (3 - 10 years) migrants have an exultant tone - which comes from realising what a difference it makes to one’s well-being to be living in a place where the terminally sick norms in Malaysia don’t apply.
The first couple of years can be difficult in a new country. It takes a while to let one’s guard down and speak one’s mind without needing to “codify” everything in case a BN goon overhears it, or if the person is likely to pass it on without care. There is also homesickness to be coped with. It may sound ridiculous to feel homesick for a country that has become so inhospitable to live in that one has chosen to migrate, but I’m sure even long term prisoners experience the disorientation of being in new surroundings on coming out. That is actually something like how I felt on leaving the country 36 years ago - that I’d come out of jail. To some extent that is the condition of non-bumis still living there, psychologically looking over their shoulders to see if the screws or their trusties are around. One’s world shrinks to the point where one can feel it physically.
The thing is - in the psychology of prisons - the screws become every bit is imprisoned as the prisoners. This is something so ingrained over there now that I can’t see how it can be dismantled. It’s all very well for some of the young bloods to shriek about standing and fighting (and my best wishes for their success!) but once a culture of corruption becomes so ingrained that even the judicial system is compromised only cataclysmic eruptions can change it. Look at Italy. The Allies re-instated the mafia as a means of minimising casualties in the invasion of Italy. Since then that country has been run by gangsters. And if an “old” country like Italy has not been able to clean up its act I don’t hold any great hopes for Malaysia. Especially since the education system has effectively been dumbed down to the level of a bad joke.
How long can one remain sane and healthy when the society one lives in has normalised insanity?
As I said there are many reasons for migrating. Mine was so that I could breathe, talk, listen, argue, disagree, think and act free of fear - where the law sees all as equal, where the police are the guardians of the peace and NOT agents of corrupt politicians.
February 28th, 2010 at 13:26
Dear Readers,
I have read mostly all of the posts here on this blog. I am planning to move to Malaysia from USA. I know a lot of you will be surprised. Well, for one reason: unemployment. I am from California and unemployment is very very high even for me who holds an IT degree. The second reason is my religion Islam. West is, increasingly, becoming anti-Islam and I fear that one day Muslims will be marginalized or even put in concentration camps. Yes, West could be equally EVIL. You need to start reading the blogs, news articles and youtube videos to know where things are headed for Muslims. The rise of Islam, to me, is the real fear even though, they choose the Western-crafted-evil-picture of Sharia laws.
I find Malaysia to be a friendly country for me, my parents, my siblings and their families to migrate to. Looks like there are programs for long term stay of foreigners. Education seems to be good if not the best. Although, I do want good standard of living, job and business opportunities, my main goal is to protect my religion and free myself from the coming persecution.
I read an article saying that Malays tend to take subjects like religious education over the secular education. My heart goes out for them because of their dedication and love for Islam. Unfortunately, they don’t have any share in the Malaysian job market because of total dominance of foreign and non-Malay businesses. I feel they need to be supported. I don’t know how. New jobs should be created for them that will use their knowledge of Islam. Also they need to be given both secular and religious education. Government can send them to religious schools and after that they can learn some trade, skills etc.
The Chinese and Indian malaysian communities have gotten total monopoly in certain trades. I ask these people who are complaining about bumiputra laws, is their monopoly any less racial? Do you give jobs to malay as much as you give it to your own race? I am not going to totally reject the possibility of racial favourtism and religious hatred among Chinese and Tamil Indians.
From the bottom of your heart ask yourself this question: Would China tolerate the Indian population who controls the media, business, banking center? Hell NO. If you guys consider yourself Malaysians, then you need to have kind heart towards your malay Muslim and non-Muslim brothers.
Yes, there is corruption but look at the pitiful salaries that local Malaysians get: 560RM per month to teachers and police. Of course, there will be corruption. How else will these guys make their ends meet?
I am against unfair laws and other automatic co-partnerships without making efforts as this makes one lazy and impairs his/hers self-reliance. But there should be some way for locals to enter the job and business markets more fairly: Why should ONLY Tamils be veterinarians or doctors or Chinese hold all the businesses?
Other issue with I have with some of you not being comfortable with Islam. It is like you coming to my house to live temporarily for few months and then you start dictating that I should stop praying or watching TV a certain time. Malays are Muslims and they have the right to practice their religion at least in their land. If I am not allowed to follow Islam in Malaysia and not even in the West then where will I follow it?
February 28th, 2010 at 13:37
USA is good, very good but it is not a bad of roses. Somebody mentioned low crime rates. I was laughing my head off. USA has one of the highest crime rates: murders, rape, bank robberies, killing for only $10 (in NY), gangster violence etc. Prison population is swelling.
We have white racism too. Where Blacks are routinely denied jobs. Media often stereotypes them (just like they do to Muslims) and shows only negatives information.
Public schools are free but students are HEAVILY undisciplined. There is drug use, murder, gang affiliations etc at high school level. My nephew and neices went to public school and they recounted their experience. In her English class teacher is giving a lecture and the students are talking among each other or passing rude or sexual comments on teachers. Some of them even farting in the class. Most of them are seen playing outside of the class during class sessions. It is REALLY REALLY bad. You often have to live a secluded life. Teen agers are often involved in crimes from the early age.
True that there is equal treatment more or less. Specially in California where people are more liberal. People in the east coast are equally racial specially against Muslims. You get more salary, more benefits than other countries BUT ONLY IF YOU HAVE JOB. LOL
Yes, jobs are rare in America. Specially for white collar workers. I can go on and on.
So the West is not all bed of roses.
February 28th, 2010 at 13:41
Having said all that, I would like to know where possibly I can face discrimination?
If I work for a local company, would I be mistreated, harassed, paid less? Can I own property there? Can I open bank accounts? Is there limit to keeping any foreign currency? Can I open gold accounts?
Is there anything else I need to be aware?
How is the moving to Malaysia program? Will I be better off on a work visa or through M2Malaysia program?
March 1st, 2010 at 10:50
In a way, Fei Mao is right, although slightly extreme in approach.
Those who fled the country were thinking of themselves. I feel that the right thing to do is to work to get those “wrong people” out of the govt so that we can put Malaysia back on the right course.
Not sure if we can get the right leader, but at least put in a check-and-balance political situation to reduce the “wrong-doings”.
Get my drift?