IN today’s world, you have to understand the power of a text message. A few sentences that can make you laugh, cry or become frightened.

Some misguided people use the SMS to make you laugh, cry and even become frightened, all in one message.

I’m talking about text messages calling the people to the streets to march in protest.

I’m all for the right to demonstrate. I believe that as a democratic country, it is our democratic right to dissent.

But in order to hit the streets, one must have a solid reason backed by facts, and must look for an outcome that will be for the betterment of society.

I received a text message yesterday, calling for the people of Ipoh to march against the appointment of the new menteri besar.

Let’s not go into the facts of the appointment as we know the candidates well enough.

The SMS said “it is wrong” and “a slap to democracy” and we should “march in protest”. Personally, I thought it was funny. But, then I realised not everyone would shrug it off.

Some people fall for such messages. Call it ignorance or idiocy, but they do.

I don’t want to go into who could have sent this message out because I don’t care.

But what I do know is that calling for the people of a city to hit the streets because of your private dissatisfaction is disgusting. With no facts or reasons, we’re supposed to march in the streets?

All such messages do is create a climate of anger and fear. The problem with fear and anger is that they’re contagious and they influence our better judgment.

So, people of Malaysia, the next time you receive such text messages, please use your head. Don’t let a 20-word message influence your better judgment.

And, don’t forward these messages, just delete them. And to the person or people who sent this message out, shame on you.

D.M., Ipoh

Source: NST – March 14, 2008