RETIRED national shuttler Lee Chong Wei’s candid assessment of Malaysia on the eve of Merdeka Day was roundly praised on social media, with many thanking him for inspiring people and speaking the truth.

Lee had taken to Facebook today to express his sadness on the vulgarities that friends and fans had been shooting at each other over current racial issues.

“Don’t let petty issues like Dong Zong (or) khat tear us apart. Don’t let people spreading racial hatred beat us (down).

“Don’t let insensitive people (destroy) our sanity. Don’t let the anasir jahat (bad news) from the Chinese, Indians and Malays defeat our country, our people,” he posted. 

He said Malaysians, collectively, are much bigger than these.

Lee’s reference to Chinese education group Dong Zong and khat was in relation to the government’s move to introduce khat calligraphy, now renamed Jawi writing, to Year Four pupils in Chinese and Tamil primary schools as part of the Bahasa Melayu syllabus starting next year.

The move drew opposition from vernacular education groups and other non-Malay quarters, with some saying it was an “Islamisation tool”.

“Show that we are tougher than all this nonsense. Spread love, not hate,” Lee wrote in a mixture of English and Bahasa Melayu.

“I want my sons and grandchildren to have their Malay and Indian friends. I want them to feel safe in Malaysia. 

“I want them to fight for the flag, like how I did for you guys in the last decade,” he said, referring to his battles in badminton in international tournaments.

Facebook user WanzLatiffr Rachman agreed with Lee and wished that all politicians in the country shared the same sentiment. 

“Syabas, Congratulations and Thank You DLCW, your words are inspiring to make all of us true Malaysians… How I wish all our politicians are like you.” 

Another user Parsley Lee said the athlete’s comments carried more weight than Malaysian politicians. 

“We need DLCW to speak more often to promote unity in our country. I bliv (belive) the voice from DLCW is much heavier & meaningful than our ministers.”  

Facebook user Suria Murthy welcomed Lee’s comments as he echoed how important a non-racial stance was for future generations. 

“Well said. This is a place for our children to be known as Malaysians rather than by the race.” 

Another user Adre Idris said this was a timely reminder of how strong Malaysia could be when united.

“Well said Dato LCW. Malaysia is bigger than the issues raised. We Malaysians are stronger as a nation standing tall amongst others. Thank you for reminding us all to be a true Malaysian. Selamat Merdeka!”

Facebook user Nur Aleyn said she regretted that her children no longer experienced the same multicultural friendships that she had back when she was in school.

“Very well said Dato’. I m very sad today that my children hv (have) no Chinese and Indian friends at all. Unlike my schooling time back then. We can still make it happen AGAIN. 

“If only the schools are all combined. Friends are made from school years. Develop the love and tolerence between races. They’ll grow up respecting each other. I love Malaysia,” she said. 

Facebook user Pan Chuan Sin thanked Lee for being a symbol of unity for Malaysia. 

“When (it) comes to Lee Chong Wei, we all are Malaysians! Tq for the inspiration!” Pan said. – August 30, 2019.