BN Should Expect a Double Tsunami in 13th GE.

Khoo Kay Peng | straight Talk

I was asked by Gabrille of Malaysiakini.com to comment on the recently released Merdeka Center poll results on Kuala Trengganu by-election. My reaction:

"The Chinese in Kuala Terengganu, unlike those in the west coast, are not intimidated by any plans to implement hudud law.

They interact with Malays on a daily basis and are well-versed with the Islamic way of life.

The way the survey has been constructed gives a false impression that Malays are not concerned with the rights of non-Malays.

Since the survey merely asked respondents to name the single most important issue, it is understandable that the Malays will name the upholding of Islam.

However, if they had been asked whether equal treatment of non-Malays would be important as well, I am sure a huge number would have said 'yes'."

This political contest is not a contest between races. It is not a showdown between Chinese rights and Ketuanan Melayu. It is strictly a political contest between a UMNO/BN candidate versus a PAS/PR candidate. The KT Chinese voters, like other voters, will cast their ballot for the candidate they feel best protect their interest. This is a right embedded in the constitution for all Malaysians.

Hence, I find it odd for the campaign to focus so much attention on merely 11 percent of voters. Whatever the outcome, it will be unfortunate if this small group of voters will be blamed for either dumping the hands that feed them or turning against the forces of change.

Embracing change is a personal choice. Not all Chinese voters will vote the same way. Not all even speak the same dialect, eat the same food or prefer the same type of government.

However, the sentiment is definitely not on BN's side. It is unbelievable that the coalition, especially its backbone UMNO, still chooses to sail against the wind.

It is unbelievable that some of its leaders still believe Hudud is feared by the people. Yes, it was effective in 1999 against some opposition parties. But it was 10 years ago.

It is foolish to continue harping on development and being a caring government when physical evidences which suggest the contrary are aplenty.

BN should recontruct their political model to survive. The only way forward is the formation of a truly multiracial party. Resistance to change is going to make the component parties pay dearly.

If the trend continues, BN should expect a double tsunami in the next general election. Not only their opponents will have better coordination, better manpower and resources but also more qualified and exciting new candidates in their ranks.

One good example is Zaid Ibrahim. He has obviously laid down his card for the next general election. The message is clear - NO TO RACISM!

Zaid has made a clear choice in 2009. Other Malaysians should do the same. Lets defeat racism once and for all!