The proceedings of this year's Umno general assembly have been especially difficult to stomach. I was almost persuaded to believe that I live in a different country than the one Umno leaders live in, what with the numerous threats and enemies the Malays have to protect themselves from.

Playing the racial card is to be expected at a gathering of this kind, but this year the accusations have been mostly unfounded and exaggerated and instead of cowering the 'enemy', it may have the opposite effect on them.

The fact is, all is not fine in our country. The difficulties being experienced are felt by both the Malays and the non-Malays. The people are asking the government to help them alleviate their standard of living because for many, things are only getting worse and Pak Lah has so far not delivered. He even has admitted as much when he says he needs more time.

We must wise up to this tactic of pitting both sides against each other and realise that we are failing not because the non-Malays are asking for too much or that Malay traitors are trying to sabotage the ruling party. It is because we are failing, because this government led by Umno has failed to deliver on their promises and is now trying to put the blame on everyone else and this also includes their coalition partners.

It is a dangerous game being played and it may backfire on them to our detriment. Let us not be drawn into this senseless game of bashing each other and let us appreciate the bigger picture. We must stand united regardless of race and temper our expectations in a responsible and pragmatic way.

Now will somebody please stand up and show us the way!