PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was spot-on when he acknowledged the unhappiness expressed by Malaysians at the general election and said economic plans would be reviewed (”PM: We will step up pace of returns” - NST, March 26).

As indicated by the prime minister, Malaysians are not jumping over the moon about an economy that grew 6.3 per cent last year.

They are more interested in the personal benefits that the growing Malaysian economy can bring them.

Good governance would mean, firstly, that the government is transparent and accountable to the people of Malaysia.

Secondly, the rule of law and the Constitution should be the guiding factor in all government decisions.

The application of by-laws of the local councils should not only be fair but also be seen to be fair.

If a building is erected without the council’s approval, then the full weight of the law must come down hard on the culprit or culprits.

Thirdly, for corruption to be fought effectively, the Anti-Corruption Agency must be made an independent body answerable to parliament.

Fourth, the sensitivities of the various races in the country should be taken into consideration at all times and nursed with care and compassion.

It would be a good idea for the prime minister to keep a tight rein on some of our leaders who try to be communal heroes.

Lastly, the rising cost of essential goods should be tackled in a more serious and professional way.

The government must not take short cuts by increasing salaries of civil servants or by giving subsidies. It has to look into the purchasing power of our ringgit.

The economists sitting at Bank Negara should put on their thinking caps and not just be preoccupied with calculating the growth rate of our economy.

M.P. BABU, Johor Baru

Source: NST – April 1, 2008