The Cabinet’s decision to set a “common religion” on conversion, divorce and children, and the removal of the 30% Bumiputra quota on equity ownership in 27 service sub-sectors marks the beginning of a new era for the country, said Penang Gerakan Chairman Dato’ Dr Teng Hock Nan.

He said resolving these two main issues also augured well with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s 1Malaysia concept of People First, Performance Now.

“That Najib has been able to make a landmark decision on two major issues within a fortnight after taking office shows he is capable and sincere in wanting to address problems faced by the people,” said Dr Teng, adding that the two issues were among the causes for the people to lose confidence in the Barisan Nasional.

He said the two issues were also “a stumbling block” towards unity and integration of races in a diversified society like Malaysia.

“With the walking of the talk by the Prime Minister, all Malaysians regardless of race, ethnic and origin must fully and steadfastly support him to bring about transformation and changes for a better Malaysia for all.”

“The transformation cannot be effected by a single person. It has to be done with support from the people and an effective leadership.”

Dr Teng said other areas which the government should immediately look into were the imbalance of the civil service composition, weeding out corruption and tackling security problems.