I, Too, Am Malay (review)

This book shows innermost thoughts on values, attitudes and how future politics in Malaysia must be based on that which is positive and unites all ethnic groups. Tackling controversial issues such as Ketuanan Melayu (Malay Supremacy), the rule of law, and the role of the monarchy, Zaid speaks candidly but sincerely about the way forward for democracy in this country currently plagued by political crises.

A successful corporate attorney who created the nation’s biggest law firm despite his humble origins in a village in Kelantan, Zaid’s journey as a lawyer, politician and philanthropist is depicted here–from his resignation as a Minister and his sacking from UMNO, a party of which he had been a member for 23 years, to his analysis of the current Prime Minister’s ability to restore the rakyat’s confidence in the government.

I, Too, Am Malay, reveal the hopes and dreams of Malay who sees the future of the Malays in a refreshed democracy that anchors on common sense and a profound understanding of their place in a world far larger than their own. This book focused on purpose:

• Encourage more Malays to read and increase their knowledge
• Malays will hold fast to the spirit of tolerance and moderation
• Malaysia will have a good democracy, where citizens can live without fear
• Younger generation of Malays understand that there is no easy path in life to success