No action has been taken against the teacher who belittled the Indian community. Instead, she has been promoted to continue her work. I wonder how many more will have to suffer the same abuses that are going on right now under her purview.

Unfortunately, nothing has changed for this government. The public have repeatedly voiced their desire for free and fair treatment for all, regardless of race and religion. However, their cries have NOT been heard.

Grave injustice is being inflicted to the future of this country and its race relations. These isolated incidents of racial outbursts must be curbed immediately or they will become wounds that will never heal. The arrogant people who choose to hurt others in such despicable ways must be dealt with, there’s no question about it.

The healing process is not a mere ‘forgive and forget’ attitude that the government wants us to practice. We need a strong message to be sent to the people that racist behaviour is not acceptable and that it is punishable by law. Only then can the healing process begin.

Stern action against those who practice racism will send out two very clear messages: it will console the affected and make them understand that what they experienced was an isolated incident, and to alert the people that it is wrong to make racist remarks about any one.

It is important to remember that this is not a problem that is only affecting Indians. All Malaysian over time will feel that is it ok to pass racist remarks about each other because we will forgive and forget and move on.

These are the incidents that have created resentment and unhappiness for all. The streets and polling stations are mere personification of the rakyat ’s sentiments.

It is time the government addressed this issue. Stop sweeping it under the carpet.