Though parts of Malaysia have been affected by the tsunami killer waves, the extent of our loss is small compared to that of our neighbours especially in places like Aceh and Sri Lanka.

While I am heartened by the outpouring of generous contributions from governments across the world and the public (including the Malaysian public), I can't help but ask the question: what is our Malaysian government doing? Apart from sending some army personnel and a few planes, and allowing our airports to be used to send aid into affected areas (reported in the local papers today), I am not aware of any monetary contributions made to our immediate neighbour, Indonesia.

Given the extent of Indonesia's loss and devastation, and the resources we have, surely we can extend some help to them, however small. The decision our government makes reflects on those in authority. Whether our government give or don't give, my concern is that it sends a message to our young people.

By not contributing to those in dire need, we are signalling to our young people that we should look out only for ourselves, and that it is okay to be oblivious to the desperate needs of our neighbours. So much for a caring society.