I am perturbed by the recent announcement of the national service programme. As a Hindu parent, I need assurances that this will cater for those on vegetarian and non-beef diets. It is for this reason I have always dissuaded my children from joining the army.

After many years of education, my children do not see the importance of national unity and integration. They are very embittered by the affirmative action and other similar policies which have favoured one particular race.

If so many years together cannot instill 'oneness' as a people, I wonder how three months can. I believe the only way for our children to grow up with pride and dignity is to remove the treatment accorded to non-Malay children through the education policies.

National unity and integration would then make sense and can materialise. The seeds of discord began at the schools - put it right and most would fall in place.