The Malay Dilemma | Politics and History book | old unused book

Conditions: old unused book| In good condition

May have stain and brownish edges of the book and first page of book is mark by pen.

Each book condition may vary - please message to view book condition

Title: The Malay Dilemma

Author: Mahathir bin Mohamad

Original Publication Year: 1970 

Language: English

Pages: ~188

ISBN:9789812043559

Format: Paperback 

Genre: Politics, History, Race Relations, Social Commentary

The Malay Dilemma is a non‑fiction book by Malaysian politician and author Mahathir bin Mohamad, first published in 1970. In this influential work, Mahathir examines the social and political challenges facing Malaysia’s Malay community and the broader issues of racial harmony in a multi‑ethnic society. The book seeks to explain the causes of the 13 May 1969 racial riots in Kuala Lumpur and explores why the Malays were economically disadvantaged compared with other ethnic groups.

Mahathir argues that the Malays are the rightful indigenous people of Malaya and suggests that immigrants should adopt Malay language and cultural norms to become fully integrated Malaysians, drawing parallels with how immigrants in countries like America or Australia adopt the language and culture of the dominant society. He also discusses the need for affirmative action and government intervention to uplift the Malay community and address imbalances in economic participation. 

The book was controversial on release, initially banned in Malaysia due to its racial content and critique of government policy, although the ban was lifted in 1981 after Mahathir became Prime Minister. The Malay Dilemma has since been regarded as a significant text influencing Malaysian racial policy, including the New Economic Policy.