I refer to letter Time to move towards multiracial parties . Of course, this is

a good thought when we are about to celebrate our 50 years of independence. Unfortunately, it may just be wishful thinking looking at the present political scenario in this country.

Still, Barisan Nasional could set the tone by having annual assemblies at the divisional level for all its component parties so that they are able to hear each other's voices and views, debate national issues and pass resolutions that reflect the multiracial and multireligious aspect of this country. That will be the first step towards the formation of viable multiracial parties.

If Barisan Nasional does it, the Barisan Alternatif parties will be forced to do the same and this will pave the way towards having two multiracial fronts for the citizens to choose from.

This especially if the leaders at the divisional levels of the component parties are already able to understand and appreciate the needs of each another and across the two fronts.

The burning question is whether our BN leaders, led by the dominant Umno stalwarts, will wish to move in such a direction or (as is more likely) prefer to continue to divide and rule and preserve the unequal dominance that has been truly and strongly entrenched in the current system?

Unless the BN leaders decide to go for a multiracial approach, I can't see multiracial parties succeeding in this country.