If we start by embracing diversity in our local and state communities, then we can do so at national and global levels too. The Badminton Association of Malaysia was “utterly appalled” by the “dreadful remark”, while other politicians joined the condemnation. Flimsy defences were invoked, citing strong emotions at Malaysia’s loss, and references to non-derogatory usages of the offensive word. The former is not an excuse for racism, and the latter must be assessed according to intent. Worse still are the attempts to cite places such as Masjid Kapitan Keling in Penang (truly a beautiful building which I have written about separately) as a licence to use the word.
