LETTER | Time for a counter-offensive

LETTER | I have always made an effort to listen to ceramah and statements made by those waiting at the wings ever ready to take over the federal government.

I am not a fan, but I try to understand their motivation, worldviews, values, and attitude toward life, the country, and the world.

So far, I must say, there is hardly anything positive. Every day it is about race, religion, Malays losing power, Islam in danger, and the liberals and secularists are looming to take over the country.

The current federal coalition government, which is being criticised left, right, and centre every day, is quite frankly, the last bastion of hope for Malaysia.

If this government falls or is replaced in the next general election, I guess we can all kiss goodbye to the Malaysia we know for good.

I am not being an alarmist for saying this. The far-right, consisting of religious purists, race supremacists, ultra-chauvinists, and archaic obstructionists are certainly on the prowl in this country.

Sadly, many Malaysians think these are the people that will bring them utopia on earth. 

The people have no idea what this utopia is all about because they have never lived in one. They were told everything would be fair, just, and perfect. Just trust them and everything will be fine.

But their capabilities, values, and worldviews have shown us otherwise. What they promised could just be a farce - a mirage in the desert.

Have they proven anything at all in eradicating poverty, inculcating racial harmony, handling substance abuse, creating jobs, fostering family values, and promoting quality education?

A similar trend is now prevailing in the US where deranged and unhinged people are taking central stage, with the possibility that the country may not see democracy again.

Perhaps Malaysians in general are adventurous. We are not satisfied with BN and Pakatan Harapan, so maybe we want to try out Perikatan Nasional.

But then, PN is very different. This is a group of ultra-purists who want to change every social order and the way of life of Malaysians. It will be a one-way street with no U-turn.

Sadly, many Malaysians yearn for the utopia promised but none have lived in it before. We can look at countries already under the control of ultra-purists. Name one that is morally upright, progressive, and happy.

I am appealing to all Malaysians, Muslims and non-Muslims, men and women, our life is not for experiment.

The current government is not perfect. In fact, there are many weaknesses and priorities that require quick attention. Sometimes I feel that the ministers are just focusing on some unimportant issues to show that they are still around and doing something.

Be that as it may, I think the government must now begin the counter-offensive to confront toxic and false narratives staged by the opposition before it is too late. The Madani government can remain gentlemanly at its own peril.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.