As much as I admire Dr G Walter's patriotism for staying on in Malaysia, it is unfortunate that he feels the need to condemn the 'bitter' emigrants for expressing their dissatisfaction. One would think the views of emigrants would be valid if one is really interested in the betterment of our country.

It is also somewhat depressing, though amusing for its contradiction, to hear him say, 'Countries such as the US, Australia and the Europan nations were not made perfect overnight'. Despite his patriotic bravado in accusing those who wish to emigrate as cowards, he couldn't help admiring those 'perfect' Western nations.

Could it be that this statement suspiciously reflects an underlying belief in the myth of western superiority?

Walter took offence to the likes of Ryan Davidson for wanting to emigrate , despite living well here in Malaysia. But just because they lived well, doesn't mean they have no reason to be dissatisfied or to express disgust at the institutionalised discrimination that exists in Malaysia. They undoubtedly had to work harder than most to get where they were.

I don't think the issue of wealth, as posited by Walter, is of primary concern, but perhaps that our government's coffers, (taxes paid by all Malaysians) are being unjustly distributed simply by order of race and affiliation (which includes those already wealthy citizens).

Let's not forget the many others less privileged, at the bottom of the social order, have to struggle (many still not getting anywhere) because of the unequal distribution of government-sponsored opportunities.

I think there is value in criticism especially in a country which has so little safe space for freedom of expression and where the mere mention of race issues (as we are constantly reminded by the power- that-be) would supposedly lead to total chaos and disruption.

It could be a possible impetus for positive change. If anything, criticism serves to change the mind set of those who believe that the current system is in the best interest of all Malaysians, including those who have come to accept the discrimination inherent in it.

We should expect critical letters to be written, especially in response to the likes of Shaukat Ali and Walter, who appear to have heaped unjust accusations on people who have different experiences and who feel differently from them.

Perhaps instead of accusing them of being cowards and opportunists, it would be more productive for Walter to give some useful suggestions on how we should strive for a more just society here in Malaysia.

Is it by staying and fighting for a change? If so, how? I certainly don't think silencing those who express dissatisfaction, even if they emigrate for whatever reason, is a way forward.

Until then, kudos to those 'cowards' who were brave enough to speak out and to start a new life for themselves and their families.