Nation building, 50 years and beyond: an emergence Malaysian cultural identity

Abstract

Malaysians today still generally identify with their respective race and cultural practice. This paper hopes to provide some insights into the reasons why most Malaysians are still unable to dissociate themselves from the label of "race". After 50 years of independence, has phenomenon changed? This paper proposes that a "Malaysian" cultural identity is slowly emerging in the country today. There are several cultural elements that are now commonly and widely accepted by the Malays, Chinese, Indians and the indigenous population. For example, Malaysians identify with national symbols such as the flag (Jalur Gemilang), the National Ideology (Rukun Negara), the National Language, and the National Anthem. This paper also aims to investigate the evolution of this Malaysian cultural identity since the time of independence to now. The government's role in helping to mould a national identity will also be evaluated. Finally, this paper intends to find out the elements of the Malaysian culture and what it means by "Malaysian culture".