Constitution cannot be read 'ala carte', says Zahid

AYER KEROH: The Federal Constitution cannot be interpreted selectively by picking provisions that suit a specific stance, but must be understood as a complete national framework, said Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

The deputy prime minister said confidence in the nation's history must go hand in hand with understanding Malaysia's foundational structure, as history explains the country's journey while the constitution serves as a guide.

"When discussing rights, freedoms, and equality, we must understand the entire setup. The Constitution cannot be read 'ala carte' by taking what favours our position and casting aside the rest," he said when opening the National Consultative Assembly: Unravelling the Malaya Polemic at the Melaka International Trade Centre today.

Also present were Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and National Consultative Assembly chairman Tan Sri Abd Ghani Othman.

Zahid, who is also the founder of the National Consultative Assembly, said Article 8 of the constitution provides for equality before the law, while Article 153 protects the special position of the Malays and the natives of Sabah and Sarawak, as well as the legitimate interests of other communities.

He said Article 160 provides the legal definition of a Malay, alongside the position of Islam as the religion of the country, Bahasa Melayu as the national language, and the institution of the Malay Rulers, which collectively shape the nation's framework.

"All of these form a national framework that must be understood as a whole," he said.

Zahid said defending the positions guaranteed by the constitution does not mean denying the rights of other legitimate citizens.

"In this framework, we do not need to feel apologetic about defending our own position, and we must be fair to the position of others.

"The history of migration should be studied, but those who are legitimate citizens are part of this homeland," he said.

He said recognising historical roots and indigenous status should not be interpreted as an effort to deny the place of other communities in the country.

He said efforts towards Malay-Muslim unity must continue so that differences between parties do not hinder consensus on matters involving religion, race, and country.

"This consensus must be rooted in the constitution and respect the rights of all citizens," Zahid added.