MARCH 9 — I shed a tear when I realised the inevitable reality that we have most likely lost everyone on board MH370.

Yes, the Malaysian authorities have not confirmed anything but let’s face it, the plane cannot simply disappear and continue flying without refuelling at the time of writing.

Fact is, the plane is no longer airborne. That is the painful, cold, hard truth.

My heart goes out to the family members of everyone on board. I can only imagine what they must feel like. A tear of mine must be equivalent to a flood of sorrow from them, when they finally grasp the fact that all might be lost.

This incident is a national tragedy, of historical proportions.

But behind the catastrophe, it is heart-warming to see Malaysians putting aside their differences and partisan politics. It shows that Malaysians can come together when it matters most. This tragedy has managed to bridge the chasm that separated us, and united us at a moment when many thought national unity is but a dream.

We see, and cry for our countrymen on board MH370. All is not lost.

To the insensitive individuals out there who are looking for their five minutes of fame, there is a time and place for jokes. But not when hundreds of lives are lost. Laughter, sometimes is not the best medicine.

To the authorities, history will judge you on your actions or inactions over this tragedy. It might not end anytime soon, hence the hope for better communication between government authorities, the media, and the public. It is frustrating to keep getting updates from foreign news agencies with our own media a step behind.

To Malaysia Airlines, our hearts and prayers are with you. Keep your morale up, and fly our flag high wherever you are. Whatever happens from now on is a challenge that you have to take in your stride. Let me tell you that it is bound to get tougher and more difficult in the days ahead.

I believe in the pilots, the cabin crew, and those on the ground serving the airline. You were my home away from home whenever I travelled abroad, and have provided one of the best in-flight and ground service I have come across without fail, each and every time.

The nation, well me at least, am with you.

We will get through this difficult moment, as we have done in the past together. One day at a time.

* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malay Mail Online.