Former minister Tan Sri Rais Yatim has called for Article 153 of the Federal Constitution, which safeguards the special position of Malays and the natives of Sabah and Sarawak, to be strengthened and better understood by Malaysians.
Speaking at the Melayu 153 Convention, the 83-year-old described the constitutional provision as an “intrinsic guarantee” rooted in agreements made before independence. He said Article 153 has not been fully utilised or adequately defended, despite its importance to the nation’s foundations.
“Article 153 is a guarantee for our nation. It is a trust — for our civilisation, our administration, our rulers and our culture,” Rais said in his keynote address.
Rais, who served in several ministerial roles under former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad during his first term, including as Minister of Information and Minister of Foreign Affairs, said the origins of Article 153 could be traced back to the 1948 Federation of Malaya Agreement.
He noted that British administrators had recognised the need to safeguard Malay interests as demographic changes took place, warning that Malays would face significant challenges if such protections were not entrenched. These safeguards were later reinforced through the Reid Commission and memoranda submitted by the Malay Rulers, he added.
Rais stressed that while Article 153 prioritises the special position of Malays and Bumiputera communities, it also obliges the government to protect the legitimate interests of other ethnic groups.
He said Malays must be reminded of the constitutional framework underpinning their rights and responsibilities.
“This is our land, and after this convention, our representatives must convey to the people that these are our rights and our collective struggle,” he said.
Rais also pointed out that constitutional guarantees such as quotas in the public service, scholarships, training opportunities and permits exist but are not being effectively implemented.
In addition, he urged Malay political parties to set aside internal differences and focus on national stability and community survival. Among his proposals were the creation of a dedicated ministry for Malay and Bumiputera socio-economic development and the establishment of a permanent trust fund endorsed by the Conference of Rulers.
