Kuala Lampur, Aug. 31 -- As familiar patriotic songs return to our airwaves and Jalur Gemilang unfurls across our towns and cities, we know Merdeka is approaching. It is certainly a moment worth celebrating. But beyond flags, songs and ceremonies, it is also a moment to reflect. After all, Merdeka is not just about remembering the day we achieved independence. It is also about asking whether, after all these years, we have succeeded in building a Malaysia where every citizen feels that he or she truly belongs.

This question is especially important today.

Our public discourse has become increasingly divisive. More often than not, politics is framed through the narrow lenses of race and religion. The situation has worsened in recent years...