ARE WE SELF DESTRUCTING OURSELVES?

As I read and watch what is happening around the world today, it strikes me if the end of the world is getting closer. Slowly but surely, governments around the world are falling apart. Once powerful state leaders that has all the wealth that they need, and the might of the military and police staunchly behind them are being chased out like rabbits fleeing to evade the ferocious pursuing hound dogs.

The global weather in recent times has not been good either. It has become unpredictable and erratic. Severe snow has hit most parts of Europe and the US causing closure of airports and leaving thousands of travelers stranded. Major flood unseen of in some countries has caused massive losses to property and lives. Wanton killings and murders still reign in the troubled states of Afghanistan, Iraq and even Pakistan. Life seemed too cheap where even the cost of a single bullet is much more valuable and expensive. Are these not signs of a trouble world? And are these not signs that the end of the world is near? And who had caused all this, if it is not us to blame.

Now, Tunisia is the most recent example of a crumbling state where the people had risen to oust the President, his wife and family members, just like what happened to the all powerful Shah of Iran. And now we see Egypt and Yemen with its powerful leaders going through a tumultuous period that will probably see the two countries crumble, and its leaders faced with an uncertain future.

What are the causes that have raised public anger in these countries? The answer is simple – it is a corrupt government, rising food costs that has made life unbearable for the people, nepotism, cronyism, rising unemployment and a host of other reasons that has turned the people into wretched beggars in their own country. The rich and powerful continues to lead an opulent lifestyle and enriching themselves, oblivious to the plight of the people.

Obviously for these countries, it is not ‘People’s First’; rather it is ‘The Leader’s First’ where looting by its leaders are seen as their ‘sovereign right’, rather than be a protector of the people’s rights.

With all the uncertainty prevailing around the world today, the question now is for us to look at ourselves and to see if a similar situation exists in our country; a country that is blessed with numerous resources and have never suffered a major political and economic upheaval that warrants a people’s revolt. The May 13, 1969 racial riots or the Reformasi Movement are insignificant events compared to the Tunisian people’s uprising and the events in Egypt and Yemen today.

Now what do we see happening in our country today? Firstly, the incidence of corruption at all levels of government has not simmered. Secondly, nepotism and cronyism still languishes in the corridors of power. Thirdly, escalating costs of living has made many households much poorer. And worse still, race and religious tolerance that has bonded Malaysians together since becoming an independent nation, is now being questioned.

Of late public statements by some of our leaders are worrying and a cause of concern to many. I do not wish to quote these statements, but leaders must understand that anything they say can be misconstrued by people. To use words like ‘we will defend ourselves to the last drop of our blood’ can mean that the entire might of the government to include the police and the military will ultimately be used. And if the military is used to quell a people’s protest, I will violently oppose to it.

Having said the above, I think there is enough issues and situations that can start a public protest in this country that can escalate into a people’s revolt, especially so when the peoples stomach are hungry. I am also particularly concern that the exposes in public domain of corruption and abuse by some of our top leaders and past leaders to enrich their families can cause public dissatisfaction and anger. Now, there is already a perception that all top leaders and their cronies are untouchable by the law. Immunity is for the powerful and those who opposes will be jumped at by MACC and the police, even for a paltry some of RM 2000 or for a few cow heads.

We have heard and seen it all and my only hope and that of my children and grandchildren is NOT to see this blessed country of ours crumble and become a pariah nation. We can avoid this if our leaders can come to their senses immediately; otherwise it will be the masses that will eventually take charge of this country.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION