A coalition of leftists has made six policy improvement suggestions which they believe will benefit 99 percent of Malaysians and address the ills brought on by capitalism.

The group, known as Gabungan Kiri Malaysia (Malaysian Leftist Coalition), said the proposals were the result of one year of discussions and focused on economic and welfare issues.

The six policy proposals are as follows:

1. Equitable distribution of wealth through fair taxation, investing in education and affirmative action;

2. Free university education for all;

3. A living wage for all workers;

4. High-quality housing for rental or purchase;

5. Universal pension for all; and,

6. Economic transformation based on green and new technologies.

Gabungan Kiri said their purpose in launching the manifesto was to showcase alternative policies and stimulate debate.

“We hope that political parties which are contesting the coming election will include our policy suggestions.”Let us build a Malaysia for the 99 percent and not the one percent," said the group in a joint statement today.

Among the 13 signatories of the joint statement are PSM, Jerit, Buku Jalanan Shah Alam, Angkatan Pembebasan Bangsa Malaysia, Solidariti Anak Muda Malaysia and Projek Dialog.

Details of the manifesto can be accessed at http://gabungankiri.org/manifesto_pdf.php?lang=en