I have been following-up on the Penang guy making such stupid and irresponsible remarks about his fellow citizens. What was worse, was the fact that his leader; the Prime Minister took such a long time to make a decision on what to do. As a result, all kinds of remarks and opinions were expressed through the media.
Two things that were reflected in the whole incident. That racial issues continue to be used and exploited in Malaysian politics; that our Prime Minister is very slow in responding and very indecisive and lack a firm grip of the UMNO members.
One the latter issue, I am looking forward to a change in the leadership. Clearly the imcumbent is not capable of running the country. He is however more than capable in ruining the nation. If he is truly the statesman that he claims to be, he should step aside, now!
However, who is to take over. Clearly, we have limited choices. There is no clear succession plan within UMNO. Can ANWAR truly fulfil his promises and get rid of UMNO, hmmmmmm , the 6 million dollar question! Nevertheless, change is definitely still needed........things can only improve with change.
Back to the first issue, racial politics in Malaysia. We are always so proud to claim that we are a successful multiracial society; and this is where the problem lies. We fail to acknowledge that our success is more from tolerance than anything else. Tolerance, like an elastic band, can only be stretched to a limit, beyond which it would snap! I note sadly that we are near snapping point.
Thus, we have to seriously go back to basics: start respecting each others race and thus cultural and religious background. To respect means to understand not just to tolerate. That understanding starts from school. Thus, it would be many years to accomplish this new generation of Malaysians.
The mind-set change must also come with the political parties. There should no longer be any race based political parties: dare to take that step and be a truly multi racial party, where leadership rights are based not on skin colour but on one's ability. No longer do we first identify your race, because it should no longer matter. It is Bangsa Malaysia.........
How many forward thinking Malaysians are there, to dare make these changes and sell the idea to fellow Malaysians.
Still, I remain optimistic and I will do my part.......
