Self-Reflection in Economics: A Call to Action for Personal and National Growth

Today, I feel compelled to delve into self-reflection within the realm of economics, a topic deeply intertwined with politics. There are myriad perspectives, narratives, and recurring themes. How many times must we spin the wheel of negative narratives, especially concerning our leaders and similar matters? No matter how many times we rotate through these narratives, nothing will change unless the people, particularly the Malays, alter their mindset, attitudes, and cultural practices, both individually and collectively, to transform the economy of the nation. It starts with “NATO” (No Action, Talk Only) to “WTT” (Walk The Talk).

We must begin by calling out ourselves first, then pointing fingers at our children, and only afterward at others. How can the economy progress if we, who boldly advocate and criticize, remain unchanged or stagnant in our own economic endeavors? It’s even more unfortunate if we regress, with income staying the same but inflation eroding purchasing power, resulting in a backward slide in actual income. We must awaken ourselves before expecting movement from others. Therefore, I pledge to actively engage in economic activities personally, coach my children on these matters, and actively participate in volunteer efforts to rally others together. Otherwise, I risk becoming a soldier of the NATO forces, speaking but not advancing personally, with daily income eroded by inflation, regressing and doing nothing.

The government is merely an administrator and manager, collecting revenue from the people, not generating income themselves. It is the people who advance the nation. ONLY THE MALAYSIAN GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE SAY THAT THE GOVERNMENT ADVANCES THE ECONOMY OF THE NATION. The contributions of the people are overlooked. The reality is that the government assists in administration and governance. This mindset does not exist in developed countries. If we migrate, their immigration thanks us for coming and contributing to their economy. Taxpayers are greatly respected and appreciated, thanked for being significant contributors to the national economy. In Malaysia, Malays praise leaders, but the wealthy are Chinese.

The country does not progress because its people do not progress. But Malaysian politics, including Chinese, blames the government for everything. If Malays were exported to Japan, Germany, America, Switzerland, Norway, etc., developed countries, their governments would be considered great. Would Malays be great with their current mindset, attitudes, and cultural economic practices? Fortunately, if they survive, they become laborers in fields or servers in restaurants, and even small grocery stores cannot compete. Would the Chinese become great entrepreneurs there? No, they are great in Malaysia because Malays are weak and lagging behind, unable to compete. Small restaurants are owned by Chinese, but they own large buildings and factories. That’s why many unproductive individuals join the NATO forces.

We must reflect on ourselves and nurture or continue our respective resolutions. Think ten times before defaming others, as perhaps the flaw lies within ourselves, but we are unaware of it. Change the weak culture of criticism and condemnation, as everyone seems to be an expert at it. Build a culture of progress, constructive criticism, and present solutions. Not everyone possesses it unless they build and nurture it. This discussion has yet to touch upon practical aspects, such as a performance-driven culture, a result-oriented mindset, and a positive attitude.

What propels us forward are our minds, attitudes, and cultures inherent within us, not the greatness of our criticism of others.