“One Malaysia” must be guided by “One Vision” and “One Heart,” meaning a strong sense of purpose and commitment by all Malaysians.

Gerakan President Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said so in welcoming and supporting Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak’s call for “One Malaysia” in a rally at Bukit Gantang on Saturday.

The “One Malaysia” concept is very similar to what Gerakan has been advocating in its slogan, “Satu Hati, Satu Negara, Satu Wawasan,” meaning “One Heart, One Nation, One Vision” for the past ten (10) years. “Satu Hati” has been the rallying slogan of Gerakan since its founding 40 years ago.

“One Malaysia” will give further focus to the concept of Bangsa Malaysia which is clearly stated in the Barisan Nasional Constitution and in Vision 2020 as an overall objective for a united, fair and prosperous nation.

Eighteen (18) years ago, Malaysians were committed to the National Vision to be an advanced nation by Year 2020 in various aspects – spiritual, cultural, political, social and economics. We have made some remarkable progress since then. But, there have also been mistakes and shortcomings that need to be corrected and overcome.

However, in recent years, we seem to have been distracted by excessive and divisive politicking. It is time to start to close rank and to become focused once again so that we can be back on the right track to achieve the National Vision. This is especially so in facing the severe challenges of the global economic crisis.

Vision 2020 in its original spirit and form as proclaimed in 1991 is still relevant in terms of its overall objectives. However, in the new and changing context, we need to change our attitude, approach and action in order to re-motivate and re-mobilise the people of Malaysia to once again rise to the new challenges.

We should therefore continue to promote harmony and unity, to reduce racial prejudice, stereotyping and politicking. More importantly, we should view every problem, even if faced by one (1) community, however small it may be, as a Malaysian problem. We must have a Malaysian perspective.