Once upon a time, in Malaysia, the majority of us were poorer, but we were happier.
Along came two politicians who tried to be more islamic than PAS. Why? It was because they wanted to woo Malay voters.
Today, in many Malay weddings, female guests are separated from their menfolk. Wedding guests arrive, eat and then leave. There is hardly any social interaction, fun or gaiety.
At school, in my youth, we shared makan during break. Our friendships were cemented over one tupperware of fried rice, and six spoons. Someone else would bring nasi lemak, another rice hoppers, others would bring kueh or cakes. Malay. Chinese. Indian or Eurasian. What could be more Malaysian?
We formed our own revision groups, with Chinese girls who were good at mathematics and Indian girls whose English was excellent.
Then came the two politicians. The schools and our lives, became their battle ground, and the smile faded from our faces.
In my youth, we got on fine, until politicians used race and religion to divide us. It was not perfect but we were not enemies.
Today, the politicians have hijacked our happiness with the misuse of the 2Rs (race and religion). Race and religion will destroy us, unless the politicians put a stop to it.
When we are treated as equals, Malaysia will reach its true economic and social potential, and we will outperform our neighbours
You must speak out and tell your politicians to act; but you must also lead by example. Unity is forever, not just for 31 August.
Let us learn to have harmless fun and enjoy, once again.
Happy Merdeka Day.