INTERVIEW | From the results of the last general election, it would be easy to point to issues of religion, preferential policies and political manipulation that appear to be the root of the cultural chasm that lies between various sections of the population.

This so-called chasm is not felt solely by Malaysians but elsewhere in the world - as Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil cited - in the US, Europe and other parts of Asia - where it appears that “ultra-right” conservative movements are on the rise.

Shortly after the polls, warnings about a repeat of the deadly May 13, 1969 race riots spread like wildfire across the internet, galvanising fear...