The recent gunning down of four policemen which also brutally took the lives of two of the men in blue is deeply regretted. It should never have happened. And let us not quickly and conveniently blame the men on duty.

If it is true that as reported the fatality was because our brave men on duty were not armed with bullet proof vests owing to its shortage, then the government owes the nation an explanation.

It is indeed a sad chapter in the history of this nation's determination to keep moving forward to see our dedicated uniformed personnel seriously short-changed in many aspects.

Despite the government spending billions in developing the nation often through mega-projects and in the process making a few individuals into multi-millionaires, how much has really been done to ensure that our uniformed citizens enjoy speedy access to better housing; improved work environs in good time; better food within the mess; ease of access to safety equipments; and a host of other 'benefits' that are easily noticeable and spilling out from other civilian government sector departments?

Despite the government proudly celebrating having secured sending a Malaysian into space made possible from an arms purchase deal, are we able to declare that every single one of our brave men and women in the forces do get to sit on comfortable chairs like those enjoyed by government servants within the mega buildings at Putrajaya? Wouldn't it then have made more meaning if the benefit of the arms purchase was diverted towards protecting our uniformed men and women through better working conditions?

Despite so much of rakyat's tax money being spent in all kinds of 'lawatan sambil belajar' (study tour) missions overseas, we see our dedicated protectors of the rakyat risking every minute of their life, stretched to the limit and deprived of normal family life owing to the shortage of personnel.

Obviously, these loyal members of the law-keeping forces - the maritime, air force, police or armed forces - not only do not have the avenues but will not voice their unhappiness. Sadly neither do we see politicians persistently demand in Parliament on their behalf.

Let us face the truth, if we truly care, respect and wish to remain committed to nation building. The question that the government - especially all politicians, should be asking in all honesty is: are we giving enough priority, concern and care to all those men and women who have opted to the hard life of protecting each and every one of us and this great nation?

What good is it to us when we have great buildings and endless announcement of new super projects but are unable to commensurate all these progress with sufficient and adequate safety and security through and for our forces? Shouldn't we be ensuring that making this country a safe haven in the region begins with having a well-nurtured and adequately cared for uniformed men and women?

The government and its leaders owe these brave and selfless men and women and the caring rakyat an explanation with a clear conscience.