Malaysia’s identity is shaped by its multi-ethnic and multireligious landscape, yet the 1957 Constitution privileges the Malay-Muslim majority. Since the 1970s, ethno-religious nationalism has intensified, marginalizing non-Malay, non-Muslim communities. Race and religion remain central to Malaysian identity, with legal structures reinforcing Malay-Muslim hegemony (Ketuanan Melayu). Malay Islamic nationalists challenge Christianity’s place in Malaysia due to its colonial legacy, yet the Malaysian Christian population is growing, particularly among indigenous populations. This paper argues that Christianity functions as a two-way bulwark: the Church protects indigenous communities from Islamization, while indigenous Christians safeguard the Church from political suppression. Islamization, tied to modernization efforts, is resisted through indigenous self-determination. While non-Malay bumiputera Christians play a crucial role, their precarious position raises sustainability concerns for the Church writ large. Ultimately, the paper concludes with an alternative vision for the church that surpasses tactful political strategy: peacemaker and reconciler.