Are Malaysians Racist? Executive Summary 28 April 2016

Background and Objective Malaysia is a plural society, with various races living in harmony with one another. Nevertheless, there are flashpoints in terms of race relations. Many lament growing racism in Malaysia as a serious problem towards a progressive society. With this in mind, CENBET sought to find out the extend of racism currently among Malaysians. Study was conducted over a period of 8 weeks in Peninsula Malaysia, among those living in urban and rural areas.

Sampling and Methodology Study was done only in Peninsular Malaysia based mostly on self-assessment of their racist tendencies. The study covered the urban and rural areas from north (Penang) to south (Johor). A total of 1,056 respondents were polled via random sampling. Interviews were conducted face-to-face using a questionnaire in multiple languages. Northern region 38.1% East coast 24.1% Central 20.7% Southern region 17.1%

Majority of Malaysians are not racists Still, 37.2% admit to having some form of racist tendencies 60% Not Racist 28% Shades of Racism 37% Racist Tendencies 9% Racist 3% - Don’t know Total sample size, n = 1,056

Respondents with Racist Tendencies Younger population tend to be more racist Gen Y’s make up the majority of those who admit to racism How old are they? (Age Group) Respondents with Racist Tendencies 28% Shades of Racism 9% Racist *Note – Refers to total sample size within the same age group

Idealistic Approach 40% 63% 49% 88% 91% 1 in 4 (26%) 18 – 25 years old How the Young Think About Racism 40% Admit to being racist 63% Willing to vote for different race 49% Thinks racial riots are imminent 88% Favours merit-based dealings over race 18 – 25 years old 91% Favours friends over race 1 in 4 (26%) Willing to accept non-Malay Prime Minister(Malays only)

? Race-based policy 48% 59% 38% 32% 14% 9% At least a third of respondents still find it relevant Are race-based policies still relevant? Voting for someone NOT your own race? 48% No 59% Yes 38% Yes 32% No 14% Unsure ? 9% Unsure

Are race based policies still relevant today? (By Race) Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 670 n = 312 n = 71 Note: Others (n = 3), not shown.

What comes to your mind when we talk about racism? (Inter-racial tolerance factors) Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 670 n = 312 n = 71 Note: Others (n = 3), not shown.

Findings in detail

When buying a property, I look for location that is…. Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 231 n = 298 n = 215 n = 213 n = 99

When awarding a project, hiring a new staff, choosing service provider or sales personnel, I tend to…. Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 231 n = 298 n = 215 n = 213 n = 99

“If a close relative brings a partner to our family gatherings and he/she is of a different race, I tend to…” Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 231 n = 298 n = 215 n = 213 n = 99

“I tend to socialise with…” Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 231 n = 298 n = 215 n = 213 n = 99

Do you think racial clash in Malaysia is imminent? Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 231 n = 298 n = 215 n = 213 n = 99

Are race based policies still relevant today? (By Age) Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 213 n = 231 n = 298 n = 215 n = 99

Would you consider voting for a candidate in election of another race ? Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 231 n = 298 n = 215 n = 213 n = 99

Will you accept a non-Malay as a Prime Minister of Malaysia? (Malays only) Total Sample, n = 669 (Malay only) n = 149 n =196 n = 131 n =139 n = 54

What comes to your mind when we talk about racism? (Inter-racial tolerance factors) Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 670 n = 312 n = 71 Note: Others (n = 3), not shown.

Do you consider yourself a racist? Total Sample n = 1,056 n = 231 n = 298 n = 215 n = 213 n = 99

Thank You Q & A