This just goes to show how archaic, tribal and backward they have become.
They could have said this out of defiance. But I think it could also mean that the world has passed them by. They are caught in a time warp, unable to comprehend what is going on around them.
The telltale signs of this are many. They promote policies based on orthodoxy and dogmatism but claim them as divine. Divinity is the word that overrides reason, wisdom and logic. It’s just so convenient for them to substitute knowledge and ability with no-questions-asked divinity.
They tell people to live a frugal life, to forgo worldly comfort and to seek blessings in the afterlife. But have we looked at the lifestyle of those who preach to us? How many luxury cars and wives do they have? I must say, they live their lives as though they will be here forever. The afterlife seems very far from their minds.
A false sense of grandeur and pomp is another telltale sign. They love guards of honour with elaborate uniforms and insignia marching with them even though they have no occasion or position to do so. To me, the delusion is frightening. Did someone imagine he was the head of the government inspecting the guard of honour? Are they going to bring in the 21-gun salute next?
When someone says my race or religion disqualifies me from politics and power, is he interfering and intruding into my race and religion? Why is it always a one-way street – they can say whatever they want and we can’t retaliate?
If certain politicians can’t even speak of equality, tolerance and inclusiveness, what hope is there of them holding Malaysia together once they are in power? The vision of the new Malaysia must not be derailed.
We must all see to it that those who hawk hatred, division, racism and bigotry are cast into the dustbin forever.
TK Chua is an FMT reader.
The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.