I am extremely gratified and elated that for the first time in living memory, a senior government leader none other then the prime minister himself has assured all Malaysians that we are all equal, without any discrimination in respect to colour, gender, religion or wealth.

This is very important as many down the line of government services and the private sector seem to have other ideas about what being Malaysian is all about.

Pak Lah's very clear and concise Merdeka Day message should remove their doubts once and for all and inspire them to behave in the world class manner that all Malaysians are capable of with just a little will power.

Let us all concentrate on improving our way of life rather then waste time on silly endeavours such as longest ketupat and biggest cake etc. What's next, the largest 'thosai'?