Here we are, hours away from the official start of the battle for the future of our country.
Ironically, our future lie in the hands of a few tens of thousands of semi-rural folk on the Penang mainland. They will be kingmakers all, deciding whether we have shot at a two-party political system or we will need to wait for another 4 more years, for a second chance.
Thus, what can the rest of Malaysia do? How do we persuade our fellow Malaysians in this enclave to vote correctly, for the sake of the rest of us? Are these registered voters going to heed the call of 49% of their peers or side with the 51%?
If the voting trend remains the same as 6 long months ago, we will have a shot at a 2-party system for our beloved Malaysia on its 51st anniversary. On the other hand, if disenchantment has set in, as evidenced by the current PAS gathering, Malaysia could be in step back mode, once again. And that is the real worry among the 49%.
Thus, to those with family and friends and associates registered as voters in Permatang Pauh, do your persuasion for the next 10 days. Spend time & a little money to call and talk to them. Tell them, they need to do the right thing for Malaysia NOT just Permatang Pauh. Give our country a chance for change for the better. A Parliamentary Seat is not only about local politics on how many potholes on your road to work everyday. It is not only about whether your drains are still full of shit and needed cleaning 6 months ago and is not yet clean. Or that the town square is being swept clean every day.
This by-election is about larger things. It is about our livelihood, the quality of our lives and that of our children. It is about walking out of our homes in fear of our lives & freedom or with air under our feet, full of optimism and looking forward to a good day's work. Yes, happy to do a good day's job because we do not feel exploited and will bring home a decent clutch of ringgits at the end of the month. That when I smile and say "Selamat Pagi" to the people I pass, I do not see brown, black or yellow, but another fellow Malaysian going about his legitimate business. When was the last time we did smile at a fellow worker on the street and she smiled back and we did not bother about the colour of her skin? Those days will return if we can persuade the people of Permatang Pauh to vote the right man into Parliament.
The right man voted in on 26 August is not the end-all. But he is the start of a new beginning. He may even not be representing Permatang Pauh in future elections. But he will be the start for change in our country.
People of Permatang Pauh, please do the right thing on 26 August 2008.
