New script needed after losing the plot
(MMO) – Who exactly are these high incomes created for and how come after 70 years there have been little or no rewrite to the script of the Malays needing protection and opportunities that only Umno can provide?
And so another instalment of the annual carnival we all know as the Umno General Assembly has concluded, and the rest of the world can get on with their lives.
The red baju Melayu and white and red baju kurung have been sent to the dry cleaners and put away for the following year; speeches, like the ones from the previous general assembly, have been archived to be pulled out and rehashed for the next segment and everyone goes home with a renewed buoyancy that the 71-year-old party will rule for another 71 years ― or in the words of the president 1,000 years ― depending on how cynical or optimistic you are.
Corporate figures can now go back to the business of running their companies. Many are expected to show up as a sign of solidarity with the party and some of its beleaguered leaders.
Many turn up, looking disinterested but acknowledging it is a cross to bear for the future of their companies if they hope to secure government projects.
But their discomfort cannot be compared to that felt by the many non-Malays, including politicians and party leaders from the component parties who are herded into the lion’s den for the main event, where in subtle and not so subtle terms, they are reminded of the status quo.
“I am thankful for small mercies, I only have to listen to the presidential speech which is usually void of any racial rhetoric,” said an MCA leader.
“But some of our other members attend to listen to the delegates’ speeches and it can be very uncomfortable.”
I can relate to what he is saying. Having attended several assemblies, I can vouch that it is one of the few times that I am aware of ― or made aware of ― my ethnicity.
