I refer to the headlines Review bumi equity calculations, gov't told .

First of all, equity shareholding is not the sole indicator of wealth. There is actually no scientific method of assessing wealth. Even taxes paid and properties owned only offer a guideline. Tax computations are dependant on individual honesty. For example, a fried rice seller who sells 450 plates a day may say he only sells 150.

Also, the Malaysian government is not privy to assets owned by Malaysians overseas. A businessman who rents an apartment in Malaysia may own a A$150,000 house in Australia. So, how are we actually going to compare wealth?

The answer is - you cannot. The solution is to forget about racial comparisons. Implement economic policies that will benefit all those of the lower-income groups, irrespective of race.

There must be minimum wage legislation. No more paying employees of Malaysian nationality ridiculous salaries such as below RM700 a month.

Regulate foreign workers by imposing quotas on use of foreign labour. Businesses that wish to exceed the quota must provide proof of advertising and attempts at recruiting Malaysians.

Ensure adequate low-cost housing and availability of loans. Also loans for motorcycles and low-priced models of cars.

Prevent duplication in awarding contracts, licences, tenders, rental of low-cost shop units and stall lots. There must be honesty in maintaining a database of individuals who benefit from government-initiated schemes.

Regulate the prices charged by private colleges and institutions of higher learning. Education must not be allowed to become a profitable commodity otherwise the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.

No more awarding of scholarships to students including top achievers. Only pay-back loans, and in vital areas such as medicine, students should be bonded to local hospitals.

Increase the job base of non-graduates. Promote the study of non-academic disciplines in order to become car mechanics, tile and brick layers, plasterers, electricians and plumbers, and encourage entrepreneurship and self-ownership.

I believe that poverty can be eradicated and bickering about who is richer is only a waste of time. Comparing who is richer is an impossibility but identifying the poor who genuinely need help is all too obvious.