Malaysia: A deceived nation?

Malaysia, being my motherland, has always been close to my heart. Im pretty sure this is the case for many other Malaysians. Malaysia, for me, has always been an epitome of peacefulness. Sadly, I have began to develop a feeling that peace is now gradually slipping away from the once firm grip of Malaysia. Peace, in this context is not what we relate to issues like war or violence. I'm stressing on the inner peace or peace at heart. As of late, many Malaysians are showing traces of dissatisfaction towards the government. These dissatisfaction are the ones affecting our inner peace. I doubt if i can ever say again that I'm living in peace in Malaysia.

Recently, I came to realize that our government is very deceptive. Government deceiving the citizens? Now, that doesn't sound good...i know. But hey, its happening! First, we are all well aware of the fact that Malaysia is a democratic country. Our governance is modeled after that of the United Kingdom, known as the Westminster system or model. This is purely democracy we are talking about, people!

 Democracy gives space for the public to take part in peaceful street demonstrations or rallies. Its a common sight to see public demonstrations in countries such as the United States, UK, Canada and Australia. But, what happens when the citizens of Malaysia take part in demonstrations?? If you are thinking "tear gas", BINGO!! We will be tear gassed and forced to adjourn the demonstration. This happened during the 2007 Hindraf rally and most recently during the Bersih 2.0 rally. Why is the government so anti-demonstrations? Hello, we put "you" there in Putrajaya and now we don't even have the rights to voice our dissatisfaction through peaceful demonstrations?? Is this the way how democracy works? Do not lead us into believing that Malaysia is a democratic country when we are actually not allowed to practice true democracy! For me, this is deceiving!

Another deceiving incident or issue (i have no idea how to term it) comes in the form of the "1 Malaysia" concept. This concept allows "equal" rights to all citizens, exclusive of racial and ethnic backgrounds. Well, this is what we are told of. Equal rights? Now, that sounds too good to be true.What is 1 Malaysia when non-bumiputras have to pay more on real estates? Now, i dont have issues against the bumiputras. But why is such rule applied when all the races worked together to form and bring up Malaysia? Im aware of the fact that according to the Article 153 of the Constitution of Malaysia, the bumiputras have special rights. But, since 1 Malaysia has been brought forward, why not alter the rule and grant us the "equal" right? 

Besides that, what is 1 Malaysia when there are quotas based on religion and race when it comes to tertiary education? Why are these quotas still applied when in reality, we are promised equal rights? This is education. Give us admission into public universities based on academic achievements, not based on racial or religious backgrounds. So, now you tell me. Isn't the 1 Malaysia concept deceiving?

Well, Im not being racist and attempting to offend anyone in particular. Im just expressing my opinions. All Im trying to stress or highlight is that the government should bring about changes in order to extinguish dissatisfaction among the public and restore our peace. As a citizen of Malaysia, I should have the freedom of speech (democracy, people!). I have a lot more to say but i think its best to stop here or it will be a never ending story. Last but not the least, I hope not to be charged for writing this!! Have a nice day everyone!

Apocalypse....A term no longer foreign to us...

Greetings everyone... I'm marking the beginning of my blog with The End. Yes. "The End" a.k.a The Apocalypse. Most of us are aware that the "predicted" end of the world is fast approaching. As many would say, 21st December 2012 will be the day the world ends.The questions is, how far is the The Apocalypse true?

Prophets, scientists and religions have unearthed many evidences that point to the end of the world. What fascinates me is the fact that many apocalyptic events such as natural disasters have started taking place across the globe now. Creepy, aren't they? Do these events indicate that the predictions are true? Well, i believe no one can answer this question for certain.

What will actually happen during the Apocalypse? Scientists predicted that Eros, an asteroid, will pass earth on January 2012. This was also written in The Book of Revelation. If this asteroid, measuring about 26miles in diameter, hits Earth, mankind will face destruction. Another prediction is that a new planet, known as Planet X or Planet Nibiru, will pass so close to Earth triggering earthquakes, tidal waves and many other destruction. From the religious point of view, many Protestant Christians believe that doomsday will come in the form of  Rapture. Rapture is when the righteous will all be whisked away to heaven.

Many other predictions contributed by our predecessors and modern science have fueled up our fears of the Apocalypse. Besides that, movies like Deep Impact and 2012 (although fun and thrilling to watch) further strengthen the fear of doomsday. On the contrary, many argue and challenge these predictions. Some even refer the Apocalypse as a myth!

As for me, when it comes to Apocalypse, I stick to liberalism. I might believe its true at one instance and at another, I would question its validity. The point is, whether the Apocalypse will or will not take place, we will just have to wait and see. Let us not be preoccupied with the end when we have a life to live for! As long as we are on Earth, life goes on!!!


Cheers,
Shalini Krishnan