Exco member Mohd Ashraf Mustaqim Badrul Munir said Malaysia should not ratify the policy while basic issues, such as racism within society and the capability of Malays in all sectors, have not been fully addressed.

“There is no use going after a policy that can cause more disunity,” he said in a statement.

Ashraf asked the minister to re-think whether he was prepared for the closure of all vernacular schools and to ignore the affirmative action policy, which also targets other races other than the Bumiputeras.

“If not, let’s go back to the reality and ensure racial harmony is protected,” he said.

He reminded the minister that the sentiments of the Bumiputeras had the biggest impact on national harmony.

“Articles 3, 153, 160 and other similar ones need to be retained. There should be no attempt to disturb them in any way.”

Waytha had earlier said the government was committed to ratifying seven treaties, including ICERD, in due time, with discussions on ICERD slated to begin next February.

Asked if provision 2.2 had violated Article 153, Waytha said “positive discrimination” or affirmative action should not be considered as comprehensive discrimination.