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Malaysia must emerge as an oasis of harmony and prosperity in a turbulent world. We must continue to build on the credible achievements of the forgotten generations and forge ahead.

Our future is bright and to achieve extraordinary sustainable success and fame and continuity we must act collectively and must learn to reject divisions, extremism and idiosyncrasies which could confuse and upset our very peculiar civil order.

Asia in general is on the move. The People's Republic of China and the Republic of India are growing at a frightening speed. The competition both regionally and internationally is fierce and constantly travelling at an alarming pace.

To withstand such intense competition its imperative that we must remain strong and well prepared to overcome obstacles regardless whether we are rich or poor, young or old and regardless of race, language or religion Malaysians must in general care for one another.

Whatever opportunities there are we must respond boldly, creatively and learn to expand our horizons. Our present economy must be restructured to make it more productive and resilient. Our very peculiar civil society should become more vibrant and cohesive.

The ultimate success of any political party in the 13th General Election depends primarily what they have to offer.

Any manifesto presented to the voters must necessarily encompass the following critical values which same are conveniently ignored, forgotten and/or shelved soon after victory. Perhaps it's now time to act with responsibility, commitment and accountability.

The manifesto to be drafted, presented and circulated for the purpose of the 13th General Election must reflect the following core objectives:

(i) creating a dynamic economy generating good jobs;

(ii) improving the living conditions and standards of both the rural and urban poor;

(iii) thriving to maintain stability and harmony within the multi racial spectrum;

(iv) responsible individuals and youths should constantly be engaged in the shaping of the future of the country and society;

(v) must constantly foster an open policy and welcome diversity;

(vi) building a fair society by helping the marginalized, segregated and weaker members to achieve success and fame.

Additionally, such a manifesto must provide opportunities for youths in particular to engage in community activities and cultivate methods to strengthen their sense of community and social responsibility.

To achieve success, successful experienced and educated youths must be engaged in policy creation and must urge them to broaden their roles.

While the participation of youths is important the welfare of older Malaysians must never be ignored and/or neglected.

This is essential and necessary so that they could cope with changes and continue to live a meaningful lives.

Perhaps the establishment of a senior citizens fund would be useful and vide national projects and social activities there must be intergenerational bounding.

In order to move ahead we must stay together and that can only be achieved if political parties competing at the 13th General Election formulate a more sensible, credible and people friendly manifesto.

 


R Kengadharan was an ISA detainee.

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