We call on the Defence Minister to review
the system of personnel management in the armed forces including promotions
as a positive step to attract all races
Media Statement
by Dr Tan Seng Giaw
(Kuala Lumpur, Monday):
The Defence Minister urges
non-Malay leaders to encourage their young people to join the armed forces.
"In order to attract non-Bumiputeras to be in the forces, the Defence
Ministry has adopted various measures, and it wants to listen and exchange
ideas with any person who has good suggestions," he added.
Just as all Malaysians should love the country, people of all races should
serve in our armed forces. But, love and patriotism are two-way traffic: the
people serve the country and the latter are fair to all.
If we do not include the word "bumiputera"in the armed forces, would Najib
like it? He should look into all aspects of the forces, especially
promotional exercise. What are the true criteria? If promotions are based on
race and religion, then the measures to attract non-Malays will not be
attractive.
No single race like to be thumped down because of their colour or religion,
serving for years without going anywhere. If national service contains
universal values with no discriminations of race, religion and gender, then
it is a good nursery to attract more young people of all races to join the
armed forces.
All races have sacrificed in the history of this country. Why should the
non-Malays shy away from the armed forces? Why do the people in China,
Taiwan and India rush to serve in the armed forces?
(18/11/2002)
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Dr Tan Seng Giaw, DAP National Vice-Chairman
and MP for Kepong
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