Friday, September 16, 2011

Malaysia tipped for reform?

We had a group discussion yesterday about whether one is an optimist, a pessimist, or something in between. Where we stand can make us a believer or a skeptic. Take yesterday's article in The Age newspaper, for example. It says "Malaysia tipped to opt for reform." Malaysia's Prime Minister Najb made an announcement about wanting to repeal the Internal Security Act, which has been frequently abused by his government to incarcerate its most outspoken political opponents and to instill fear in people against voicing any anti-government sentiments.. 

I am a pessimist when it comes to political views. I view political statements like the above as yet another attempt to win votes with no intention of keeping the promise. The general election is coming up in 2012. The government knows that it has to start its election machinery now. It is totally out of character of Najib, as far as his political life has demonstrated. Out of the blue comes this shot. If there is any desire for true reform, much work would have already been underway. It is bewildering to think that all of a sudden Najib has woken up and decided to act. Call me a pessimist.

On the other hand, you can be an optimist and say that all the mass rallies in KL has made finally reached the ears of Najib. That the Arab Spring uprisings has made him sit up. That he is genuinely interested in carrying out reforms. You have the right to your opinion. Cast your vote - wisely.

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