This is an opportune moment where you can make a significant or meaningful change by voting out candidates who are known to be corrupt irrespective of which party they peddle under; and you have the sole power in your hands to vote a vying candidate with an admirable if not impeccable personal character, respected for his / her knowledgeable disposition and has a track record demonstrating genuine care or concern for the well-being of the people.
You must have seen and read what some past politicians had done to the country. Undoubtedly, you know too that there were a number of corrupt politicians who faced court charges. And mind you, they were, shockingly, party leaders to boot.
They have shamed themselves and their families, but more importantly, they had shamed their very own race and religion.
Just look at how certain corrupt party leader/s behave when they appear in court.
There is not even the slightest sign of remorse on their faces. Instead, they can afford to smile, dressed in their best suits, and have their filthy hands kissed by ardent supporters - an act so disgusting that only a deranged person would be willing to do.
What we are witnessing is supporters treating criminals as if they are decorated heroes.
I am a Malay, a Muslim, a veteran, and Malaysia is my only home that I love much. Likewise, the others, especially the non-Bumiputera citizens have all made this country their home as well, served the country the best they can and some with their lives and limbs too. Their loyalty to the country is no different from mine.
As a soldier, I have learnt to live aside harmoniously with my non-Bumiputera brothers at arms.
Hence for a leader of a political party to say that he cannot sit beside someone not from a party of his liking and race smacks of extreme racism.
It manifests why non-Bumiputeras had looked upon differently over the past 60 years.
The 'nons' as is now popularly coined, had been victimized by the political leaders who are bent on playing the race and religious cards just to remain in power. Period.
What they had done all these years to my non-Bumiputera brothers and sisters is nothing short of being oppressive and cruel.
My religion forbids me to ill-treat others of a different race and religion and worse, to disregard their plight. Like me, countless others too have had enough of these corrupt and worthless politicians. This sense of being betrayed and exploited by such politicians for far too long is coming full circle, believe me.
So, let’s show these candidates whom you know to be corrupt regardless of party the exit door through the ballot box at the 16th General Election. We must be wiser and be proud citizens who finally ushered in a corrupt free and a people centric leaders and MP's to form the new government.
The power to elect a government of your choice is in your hands. Make a difference out of a true and patriotic love for this nation.
Hence I appeal to all young voters who are voting for the first time to vote wisely for candidates that are free of the scourge of corruption.
Brig Jen Dato' Mohd Arshad Raji (Retired)
