JUNE 8 — YAB Perdana Menteri Malaysia Datuk Seri Najib Razak and YABhg Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad,
Greetings, Gentlemen!
I write you as a concerned Malaysian who cares for the continuous wellbeing of this blessed nation of ours – just as, I’m sure, both of you, too.
Being and having been at the helm of the country, I’m sure both of you are particularly aware of the unique characteristics of this well-endowed land we all call “home”. The political stability of this gifted nation of ours is precious, not only to its current citizens, but, so, too, to those who may come later.
As an ex-seafarer who has traversed the oceans and visited almost three-fifths of countries that dot the globe, I still am proud to tell whoever cares to listen that, “Malaysia, warts and all, is still the BEST place to be living in” an adage, perhaps, much well proven by the huge numbers of immigrants, legal or otherwise, lining up to hop over and savour the bounty offered by this generous land of ours.
Thus, Sirs, it pains me, a loyal Malaysian of no particular political affiliation, except for having the love of my nation paramount amongst my priorities, to, nowadays, see perennial castigations and counter allegations by both of you, current and past “leaders” of the nation, trying to outdo one another in displaying the inefficacies of each other’s administration!
It has come to a stage where, Malaysians wake up each day eagerly awaiting “what muck will be thrown by whom today and what’ll be the subsequent retort”. This, in my mind has to cease, period!
Whatever grouses each of you may have against one another, however strong the evidence that you may have to vindicate your stance, no matter how many supporters who are cheering both of you on, this is not a cock-fight where one will eventually rise above the other and claim victory!
Nay!
Instead, it will be Malaysia, this beloved nation that you and I claim to be uppermost in our minds for whatever actions we undertake, which will endure the negative repercussions of your daily bad vibes against each other!
In my mind, true “leaders”, Sir, do not besmirch each other in public by haranguing and castigating one another. More so if both claim to be in the same party!
What is so demeaning in simply arranging for a closed-door, private, tete-a-tete, no matter how volatile it may be for the both of you, to thrash out the issues you both hold close to your hearts? Leave your “advisers” out, sit together, four-eyed, say your piece and convince each other of your concerns and discomforts.
Is this a difficult act to do?
I do not think so – for if both of you claim that the well-being and continued prosperity, stability and development of this nation is YOUR particular concern, then, again, in my mind, Sirs, that is the only option left for both of you!
Please do not put at risk the potential betterment and progress of this great nation of ours simply due to your egos! Talk, debate, discuss rationally, avoid pettiness and personal attacks, refrain from trying to grandstand each other and avoid using whatever facilities at your disposal to demonise one another. Above all, do not let your supporters “lead” you, for, too many of them have their own wicked agendas, hoping to feed on the spoils of this battle royale between the both of you!
Hold the future of Malaysia to your heart and be sincere! Both of you are and have been at the pinnacle of leadership of this country – this current issue, just like so many more serious cases before, can be resolved amicably, provided the overall aim is simply that, i.e. a better FUTURE for Malaysia!
If mistakes have been made, no matter how huge the error, admit such and rectify it. If one has proof of excesses made and flamboyant lifestyles being obscenely displayed, say so… IN PRIVATE... and demand immediate cessation of opulent extravagance!
To continue chastising each other in public, is, but, the act of lesser mortals, definitely not of “acclaimed leaders” professing to only have the best interest of this fair nation of ours at heart!
I write this, Sirs, with malice towards none – only due to my love of MALAYSIA!
Capt Abdul Aziz Abdullah
Shah Alam
* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail Online.
