Asked to comment on current politics, Yuen expressed his disappointment that some groups ignore the fact that all Malaysian races fought for the nation’s independence. He was vehement in his criticism of certain individuals who, he said, were refusing to recognise the importance of national unity.
“Calling others pendatang—what sort of mentality is this? We all were together during the war. There was no such thing as Malay, Chinese and Indians during the emergency period. But now, after the war, some people are questioning the right of others to call this country their own or to question their loyalty.
“What did these people do during the war? If not because of pendatangs like me, Tanah Melayu sudah habis. Even the non-Malays who did not join the army or police played a very vital role. They did not offer any information to the communists. These people too should be recognised. They risked their lives in not collaborating with the communists.
Yuen revealed that when he joined the police, the British had yet to give him citizenship.
“When I was shot in Grik, I had yet to receive my citizenship, but I did not complain. I could have died in the war, but I fought for my country, not for any race.
“We need strong leaders to say enough is enough with racism—as well as corruption.
“If the situation does not change, I am afraid that our dream of a harmonious country will remain a dream. In the spirit of Merdeka, let us all unite.”
via ‘I fought for my country, not for any race’ | Free Malaysia Today.
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