Back in 2002, Deputy PM Abdullah Ahmad Badawi urged Malays to embrace meritocracy and give up the "crutches" of special govt aid. Under Affirmative Action which has lasted more than 50 years, Malays are given economic, education and other benefits to help narrow the wealth gap with the ethnic Chinese. "The time has come for us to give up the crutches and start walking independently," Abdullah was said at a ruling party convention in Johor. "We must embrace meritocracy positively and view it as an opportunity to gain dignity for the community by proving we can achieve success on our own merit." The PM urged Malays to think positively of their own ability. The fact that until now, the govt has not abandoned preferential treatment shows that the Malays are simply unable to compete on a level-playing field with the other races.