Why do the powers-that-be always try to insult our intelligence? I am referring to 'semuanya OK' menteri besar of Selangor's statement that the government cannot demolish the palatial palace of the beleaguered state assemblyman of Port Klang even though he built it without proper approval from the Klang Municipal Council.

The menteri besar's excuse is that if the demolition is done, then other buildings or extensions without the necessary approval will suffer the same fate. This excuse is mind- boggling and doesn't make sense at all.

Rules and regulations which govern our country are there for all - regardless of their station in life - to follow in order to create a more harmonious and civilised nation. It defeats the purpose if the high-and-mighty can flex their muscles and thumb their noses at the regulatory bodies by breaking the law when they feel like it.

Those who hold high positions in this country are suppose to lead by example and should respect the law in order for the common people to emulate them. They are not to abuse their power for selfish needs and not to flaunt their wealth for all to see. The people's perception that all politicians are corrupt will be embedded in their minds if they see their state assemblypersons or parliamentarians become rich instantly after holding office.

As it is, the embattled Port Klang state assemblyman has been given a very light sentence for his crime. He just has to give up his council seat but still holds other powerful positions in the party and government. He failed to follow the advice of the Sultan of Selangor and the MB to resign earlier and only acted after the prime minster advised him to do so. How arrogant and pompous can one be, I wonder.

Just slapping him on the wrist will send a wrong message to other people who hold high political office that it is all right to break the law as their party and the government will 'close one eye' to their misdeeds. After all, we all can recall the case of the Jasin MP recently.

We should educate the people who hold high positions in government that the law in this country is sacrosanct and should be respected by all. Nobody is above the law and those who break it should pay dearly for their sins.

In the age of knowledge, it would be good if future candidates running for high office be well-educated and at least have a degree behind their names. Surely after nearly 50 years of independence, the ruling parties can incorporate professionals with the necessary qualifications to lead our nation to greater height and prosperity and not the opposite.