FEB 13 — Change. It can be a terrifying thing.
Most of us find it to be unsettling, distressing and unwelcomed. The idea that what was once certain, expected and dependable becoming no longer predictable and uncertain is always something that we would rather turn away from.
In recent days, many of us have asked ourselves whether change is coming to Malaysia. Whether it is possible for this country to be more than what it has been or what it could be.
The truth is that we have grown bitter and cynical.
And it isn’t just because of a few cows. We have seen the abuse and exploitation of entitlements, of affirmative action, of welfare assistance, and the use of public funds.
Experienced the never-ending disappointing trips to the courtroom steps in search of justice against corruption.
Counted the hundreds of millions of taxpayers’ ringgit spent and wasted to realise someone’s wet dream, construct another phallic symbol and build yet another palace we don’t need.
Observed the continued enrichment of a select and privileged group under the pretext of race and religion. And accepted how despite the breakneck speed of economic progress and development in peninsular Malaysia, huge swathes of east Malaysia remain forgotten where communities live without running water, electricity and without even recognition of their citizenship.
Despite the iPads, glitzy and expensive cars, huge houses and the millionaires on the list of Forbes Most Richest, there remain so many in this country who continue to be left behind in destitution, poverty and want. The preference has been to showcase the appearance of progress rather than create enduring change.
We have allowed ourselves to be held hostage to the language of racism, bigotry, extremism and fascism which dominate the national dialogue and silence the voice and belief of moderation. There exists a culture of hypocrisy where in a Janus-like fashion we present one face to the outside world and another to those living in this country.
The voices raised in consternation, protest and outrage have often fallen onto the deaf, apathetic and paternalistic ears of politicians, civil servants and society. It seems that despite everything that we do, it is business as usual.
…more
A new Malaysia: The change (Part 2)
Azrul Mohd Khalib
February 13, 2012 – MI
0 Responses to “A new Malaysia: The change”