I was shocked to read the news that Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was attacked with tear gas at Kota Baru where he arrived there last Friday to have a dialogue-with-the-people session.

It was reported that the cause of the attack was due to some dispute on who will be hosting him during his stay there. What a bunch of lunatics. I mean, so you didn't get to host him, does that justify hurting him? For heaven's sake, forget that he was our former premier, he is, after all 80 years old.

What's happening to Malaysians? A couple of weeks ago, some UPM students were manhandled for not having 'clearance' to provide student services for freshies. In this incident, the rowdy group it was lead by UPM's Student Representative Council president. The authorities (both UPM and the ministry of higher education) have yet to take the necessary disciplinary action against those involved.

For those of you who have seen the video clip , it's something to be worried about. You will find that this is where Malaysia's future leaders are being groomed. This will most probably explain why the behavior of some of our current 'leaders' is what it is today. There's no need to mention names, just read the news and you'll figure out who I'm talking about.

In the UPM video, you will see complete hooliganism in action, pushing and shoving, shouting, harassing girls, intimidation, etc, etc.:

Yet, all the UPM authorities can say about the incident is that, the scuffle was racially motivated. So what if it was racially motivated (which was definitely not the case)? Aren't the authorities supposed to provide some form of protection for all involved, be it pro-government or independent students?

We have a long way to go before we can claim that we are a developed nation. Instead of pushing for development on the 'hard' aspects such as infrastructure and buildings, more concentrated focus should be put on the 'soft' aspects which include manners, character and such.

No wonder Readers Digest's indicated that we are very low on politeness though our leaders say we are a 'very hospitable country'.

I think it's about time the authorities realise that hooliganism trend is getting out of control and really embarrassing for this beautiful country. As such, all students from primary school onwards should be taught about good mannerisms and social conduct (it's very obvious that today's parents aren't doing a good job anymore).

While talking about teaching, maybe it will also do justice that the 'Ethnic Relations' curriculum co-incidentally introduced by UPM be changed to 'Ethnic Relations and Social Etiquette' and re-edited (with the right facts this time) before being introduced to schools nationwide.

Maybe then, at least, our children will learn to agree to disagree maturely and live peacefully side by side in this multiracial country.