ABSTRACT
To introduce this book, this chapter highlights the distinctiveness of the Malaysian and South African experience with affirmative action, provides an overview of the concept and practice of affirmative action, and sets out the key themes that will be explored. This chapter summarizes the book, adhering to five guiding questions concerning the definition and rationale, the historical formation of policy regimes, the specific programmes in each country, the policy outcomes up until the present and implications moving forward. Malaysia and South Africa stand out for implementing extensive affirmative action to promote the representation of socio-economically disadvantaged but politically dominant majority groups – Bumiputeras and blacks, respectively – in socially esteemed and economically influential positions. While the policy is politically imperative and constitutionally authorized in both countries, policy frameworks and mechanisms show important contrasts. Broadly speaking, both countries have made significant progress on the quantitative front by increasing representation of the beneficiary group in higher education, high-level employment, enterprise and wealth ownership. However, Malaysia and South Africa have fallen short on qualitative achievements pertaining to capability development and competitiveness, which are the ultimate objectives of affirmative action and prerequisites for long-term reform and transitioning away from overt racial preference.
