Rethinking Modernity: The Construction of Modern Malaysian Society

Abstract

This article explores the concept of 'modernity' that is often associated with the West. Using Malaysia's modernisation project as a case study, it offers insight into Malaysian modernity in the post-Mahathir era. Apart from dealing with the question of what version of modernity the Malaysian government intends to achieve, this article also highlights issues of Malaysian identity, Asian values, multiculturalism and religion. It places Malaysia in the discourse of modernity and argues that being 'modern' does not necessarily mean being 'Western'.