Tuesday, July 12, 2011

9th JULY 2011: THE DAY FEAR DIED IN MALAYSIA

Never in the history of Malaysian politics was so much fear and pressure, exerted on the Malaysian public, to be Tak-Bersih.

The heavy hands of the authorities were used to disrupt, harass, thwart and discourage every Bersih initiative by all necessary means. Loads of rubbish was heaped on the Rakyat to ensure that they are Tak-Bersih compliant. The end justifies the means, so to speak.

 The means include the media, police, SPR, high ranking personalities and various pressure groups. Sadly, even Royalty and Armed Forces were not spared. 

A systematic diet of fear, intimidation and coercion were rolled out on a daily basis. 

Detaining citizens for wearing yellow is logical, never mind if we are the only country in the world to do so. And, wow! we made it into the Guinness Book of Records too!

90 odd Malaysian citizens were denied their right to be in Kuala Lumpur, their capital city on 9th July 2011. It’s alright to use preventive/emergency laws to curb the right to peaceful assembly, yes?The last I recalled, the Emergency rule was lifted many decades ago. 

Entry points into Kuala Lumpur were road-blocked and vehicle and commuters checked. Many train commuters were detained as soon as they got off the train. 

By the Police Chief’s standard, these detainees should be grateful for the excellent treatment accorded to them.Provided with free transport, food and lodging, it’s a small wonder why the detainees did not ask for an extended stay – a small price for loss of personal liberty, yes? 

Yet, against all odds, 60,000 people from all walks of life, many for the very first time in their lives, braved the fear and intimidation, to rally in the heart of the Capital, in clear defiance of their govt.

Among them were the 65 year old Lady of Liberty and my 62 year old lady cousin. All ages, sexes, races and creed, united as Malaysians, and speaking with one voice - one which is devoid of fear.

In the annals of modern Malaysian history, 9th July 2011, will surely be recorded as the day Malaysians lost their fear of their own govt. Never again.

God Bless Malaysia.

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