Just relying on bah kut teh and char koay teow isn't gonna take us anywhere. It's true that Malaysia has been a good location for food manufacturing, so much opportunity in being a halal hub for that. But now with boikot this boikot that, global manufacturers are just gonna go to Vietnam and Indonesia instead.
There's so much Malaysia can learn from Thailand. But unfortunately it's becoming harder for the country to accept any new and progressive ideas for the sake of protecting culture, identity, religion and values. Look at Thailand, despite tolerating things that are mostly illegal in many countries, their identity, religion and values are still intact.
: Where are you from? : Malaysia. have you heard of Malaysia? : Hmm No.... : Do you know Thailand? or Singapore? : Oh Yes. : Yeah we're between Thailand and Singapore :D
My wife is Thai and I'm currently working in Thailand. Regarding the view of same sex marriage, the older generation mainly still have their old perspective where same sex marriage is frowned upon but for the younger generation i.e . post 80s, most people accepts that and I truly believe what sets Malaysia apart is Thais don't impose their believe on others but Muslim does. That is the problem.