I refer to the report BN MP gets 'ultimatum' from Umno Youth .

So as expected, the MCA parliamentarian's scathing speech on religion and history in the Dewan Rakyat two weeks ago has prompted an unannounced visit by Umno Youth members bearing a protest letter and more threats. This is a real shame and pity.

A real pity because in a few months time, Malaysia would celebrate her 49th Independence Day. Independence that our founding fathers who were Malays, Chinese, Indians and others had worked so hard to achieve.

And since independence we have all worked so hard to put Malaysia where she is on the international stage. However, one thing has gone from bad to worse. I am, of course, referring to race relations in Malaysia - an area if not handled with fairness and in equity will result in various forms of chaos in the future.

The real cause for the deteriorating race relations is the presence of an irresponsible and unfettered vernacular media and politicians who thrive on playing the racist card because it continues to offer them an unfettered path up the political chain of command.

And a shame because Umno Youth's action in confronting the BN MP certainly confirms this fear and belief to be true.

Each time the Dewan Rakyat meets, the subject of race and religion always does crop up. I do not understand why issues affecting Malaysians, even if they are sensitive, cannot be resolved if they are sensibly handled.

Perhaps, it is because several of our members of parliament prefer to score points using the racial and religious cards more so when they are unable to answer to what is a justifiable question in a multiracial and multi-religious country like Malaysia.

Instead of logical answers, we instead have threats, intimidation and name-calling done so openly to shut down one's opponents. Parliamentarians should know better that they are in Parliament to represent their constituency of all races rather than their party.

However, this may be impossible today in view of the dominance of the ruling party who perhaps has its own dilemma and difficulties in differentiating the dichotomy between party and government.

Perhaps, this is the new Malaysian dilemma that will haunt us all till a comprehensive, holistic, fair and equitable way out is found.