An Umno-PAS pact! What exciting, euphonious and invigorating news for Malaysians.

First, it was only khabar angin or rumour that Umno and PAS had been trying to court each other for months and this spread like wild fire. Less than two weeks ago our prime minister broke the silence and confirmed that Umno and PAS leaders were indeed talking about the possibility of “working together”.

With this half-cooked news, political leaders from Umno, PAS, other BN component parties and the Opposition jumped on the bandwagon, giving their comments. Sooner than you can imagine, a soap opera running into episodes has begun in Malaysia’s political arena.

Then ministers started becoming movie directors of this soap opera and appointed themselves spokesmen to give their opinions and thoughts and seize political mileage. All this is nothing but their own personal opinion, but being ministers and leaders, people tend to believe what they say – more so when it is reported in the mainstream media.

There was more khabar angin, more speculation, more issues on religion, race etc. which created more headlines and uncertainties. These are not helping the people but instead creating confusion and an atmosphere of restlessness overall. Personal opinions and speculation as to what will happen next should be kept under restraint.

It is our fervent wish that our political leaders who are holding office as ministers focus their attention and energies on matters and responsibilities in their respective ministries that would bring benefits to the people and the country. We want to move on with our lives. The ruling government has a job to do and we wish for nothing but for the government machinery to do a good job.

Whilst it is felt that unity is important, there are other initiatives the government can take to foster unity among Malaysians of all races, religions and beliefs. Talking and giving personal comments about an Umno-PAS pact is definitely not it.

K.L. Yeung
Kuala Lumpur

Source: The Sun – July 30, 2008