This paper argues and shows how ethnic dimension is still
very important in understanding political contestations in
Malaysia. To do this, the paper reviews the political as well
as population demography to back its assertion. And it is
not necessarily improper to continue to use this ethnic lens,
although the continued use of this approach has come
under heavy criticism both within and from outside
Malaysia. Raging debates in Malaysia and by Malaysians are
still very much shaped by ethnicity and increasing regional
differences. This is further compounded by other factors
such as religion, language, and education. In fact, these
tools have been more intensely used of late compared to
any period before in history as they easily politicize and
attract followers.
