Concerned Malaysian disagrees with Dr Chris Anthony that a common education process will help in the creation of a more integrated Malaysian society.

To say that the many discriminatory policies and practices are the only reasons for lack of unity in Malaysia is far-fetched. At best, it is an attempt to rationalise the defence of the diversified streams of education in this country. We may also argue that the discriminatory policies and practices have come about in this country due to the differences of streams of education. These have created such varying environments within the country that have helped - and are helping - those in power to 'divide and rule'.

When the divided communities agreed to come together for a Malayan identity in 1957, the contract was only a preliminary step towards a national identity. But those who represented the communities in the government conveniently forgot about national objectives and instead championed the rights of their own ethnic groups continuously. The majority community was more bent on entrenching the community's position of political power rather than thinking of creating a Malayan/Malaysian nation, true to its meaning.

That we still have the varied streams of education after nearly half a century of independence merely symbolises the failure of our national leaders to move the population towards Malaysian aspirations. In 1957, the communities did not feel that the other communities were a problem but today they wish to see themselves more as Malays, Chinese, Indians and the like. Very few consider themselves as Malaysians. This sharp contrast is reflected in the choices of schools and streams of education.

When the government is funding an education system to create more Malays, more Chinese and more Indians through the respective education streams (all in the name of communal parties), any hope for Malaysians emerging from this socialisation process is a mere illusion. Indeed, anyone who wishes to think and behave as a Malaysian will feel lonely in Malaysia as mentioned by historian Khoo Kay Kim recently.