I hope Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi would not advise us from raising sensitive issues. We are currently facing several sensitive issues relating to religion and governance. The government should consider this as appropriate feedback and give the people some assurance. No point just sweeping these issues under the carpet as though they do not exist.

While I can appreciate that these issues pose challenges there is a need for Pak Lak to inform us that these are being addressed by the Ministry of National Unity or other relevant bodies. Issues of religion do not lend themselves to political solutions. However, a group of well-meaning and respected Malaysians should address these and come out with possible options for the politicians to consider. We have the Rukunegara and Vision 2020 as appropriate guideline.

Only considered discussions born out of respect will help us move forward. We must thus act and do something and we need an assurance from the government that they are doing so and will come out with appropriate possibilities. Just telling everyone to shut up is no solution in the 21st century after 49 years of independence.