By M Santhananaban
It had never occurred to me that the relatively small ethnic Indian minority in Malaysia were “angry” or “jealous” of the bumiputras.
Anwar said he had always stressed to the Indian community “not to be angry or jealous about bumiputra programmes”.
Personally, I do not believe such anger or jealousy exists. Even if it exists in isolation, it does not merit an objectionable observation by a prime minister.
The remark rings hollow, coming as it does from a PM who is trying hard to win bumiputra support.
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Why did he take such exception to the perception of a small minority of the Indians?
The prime minister’s statement on the Indians is forgivable when seen as part of his machinations and manoeuvres to the bumiputra community. It reflects his own predicament, for which he has the solid sympathy of many observers.
The only bumiputra that I personally have had great concern and have been agitated about is former Prime Minister Najib Razak. The thoughts I have on Najib sometimes assume such overwhelming seriousness and significance that to get rid of them, I must put them in writing.
The obstinacy and offensiveness of Najib’s outrageous actions does not anger me. Instead, it frustrates, exhausts and stupefies me.
Najib had the benefit of an excellent upbringing and sound education in both Kuala Lumpur and Nottingham. He had extensive encouragement and support from his famous family and the highest quarters to enter the realm of high public service, from which he gained much expertise and experience.
Even with this background, he does not seem to understand that as a blessed, burnished and bumped-up bumiputra, he is not above the law or its provisions.
Najib was convicted and sentenced after a lengthy, transparent and thorough trial despite the exceptional ability and extraordinary submissions of his best lawyers.
Yet he has, it would seem, failed to appreciate the care taken in handling his case with the many breaks and benefits not normally accorded to white-collar criminals.
Yet I am not angry about or jealous of Najib’s position. The 12-year sentence and the RM210m fine originally imposed was a generous and gratuitous gesture considering the heist he perpetrated. The offence bordered more on treason and turpitude than plain theft.
No bumiputra should have the sense of entitlement Najib has.
Prime Minister Anwar should advise and caution him accordingly.
Dato’ M Santhananaban is a former ambassador with 45 years’ of public sector experience.
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“Anwar said he had always stressed to the Indian community ‘not to be angry or jealous about bumiputra programmes’.”
Does the PM truly believe his remark would build inclusiveness? It sounds more like malicious gossips between housewives at the wet market!!
Do not rely a crook to advise another crook.
A crook is a crook no matter what pedigree he claims.
The country is in the hands of a crook in different guise.