‘What’s In A Name’ by Datuk Seri Nazir Razak is a thoughtful contemplation of the past, present and future of Malaysia through multiple lenses and vantage points that are truly unique to the author due to his upbringing and career. From growing up in Seri Perdana as the youngest son to Tun Abdul Razak, to seeing the inner workings of corporate Malaysia and its elites as the ex-CEO of CIMB, to dealing with the political drama of 1MDB stemming from his eldest brother Najib Razak – ‘What’s in A Name’ provides a window into the stories and lives of some of Malaysia’s most influential.

An Easy Read for Everyday Malaysians

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Documented in chronological order, this book is an easy-read (as Nazir presents a clear rhetoric with concerted efforts to reinforce his ideals), but an awful one to stomach (as it surfaces many troubling realities about the state of the nation and how we got to where we are today). It certainly is a fascinating read with enough riveting stories and drama to keep you at the edge of your seat, including a very spicy serving by Nazir’s sister-in-law at a Ramadan party attended by a few Sultans, his friends and family (and no, we’re not talking about the rendang). But when you realize that these accounts aren’t works of fiction, it is sobering to say the least.

Furthermore, ‘What’s In A Name’ presents itself as a history book, disguised as an autobiography. Sprinkled throughout the book are key examinations and retellings of some of Malaysia’s most pivotal historical moments – from the road to independence to the growth of Malaysia’s financial and banking sectors. If you’re a history buff, and would like a fresh take on Malaysia’s history, we'd definitely recommend this book to add to your repertoire of Malaysian history.

Examining What Makes a Better Malaysia

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The book makes it a point to call for reformation towards a better Malaysia by honouring the past’s values and principles. One of the main strengths of this book stems from the honest albeit soft criticisms of the author towards his father’s legacy. In this regard, Nazir does concede throughout the book that Malaysia’s declining political dynamics can be attributed to his father’s own approach to national development, though with the best of intentions at the time. It seems that it was Tun Razak’s policies that laid the trail to what would culminate to be the 1MDB saga, ironically perpetrated by his own son Najib Razak.

TLDR; Yay or Nay?

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There is honesty and thoughtfulness that readers can sense straight off the pages when it comes to the intimate introspection of a boy’s childhood as well as a man’s understanding of his father’s legacy. It is this legacy and how it guides the actions of the author in his adult life that makes the principles tied to the Razak name so compelling and nostalgic.

Overall, we recommend that you read this book with a pinch of salt, as it is a personal account after all, where biases towards his family and CIMB seem to bleed into the pages. But whether or not you agree with Nazir’s arguments and suggestions, we’d definitely recommended this book for young Malaysians. Rhetoric aside, this book does manage to send across a message of what Malaysia needs to do to be better, and how one can examine their own position to make change for “A Better Malaysia.”

‘What’s in A Name’ is now available in most bookstores nationwide.

[CONTEST] 10 Signed Copies of ‘What’s In A Name’ Up For Grabs!

If you want to get your hands on a signed copy of ‘What’s In A Name’, you’re in luck! We have 10 signed copies of the book to giveaway. All you have to do is:

Fill up your details in the Google Form below (don’t worry; your information is safe with us)

Answer a simple question (hint: the answer is in the review above!)

Tell us why you would like to win a copy of the book.

This giveaway ends 31 December 2021 and winners will be notified via e-mail by 7 January 2022. Remember to check the Spam folder, okay?

Closing date: 31 December 2021

This contest is open to residents of Malaysia only.

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