The thoughtless behaviour of Menteri Besar Mohd Khir Toyo in his order to demolish the Shah Alam temple despite appeals from the leader of the Indian community, S Samy Velu, is disappointing.

On one side, we have endeavours like Cyberjaya, Petronas Towers, Formula One and the angkasawan, on the other we still have leaders who live under the "tempurung". Khir Toyo seems totally insensitive to other people's sensitivities. As a leader, he should have taken the positive action of informing the community leaders before embarking on the demolition porcess.

Even the destruction should be left to the Indians as it would not be taken well if not done by Hindus themselves. Where is his leadership qualities gone?

Khir once announced about three years ago that there was a lot of sin money in the coffers of the state government and that non- Muslims could apply for the funds to build their temples and buildings. Anybody with an average mind can deduce the kind of mentality this man has.

Negative actions feeds negative thoughts. There are enough problems around the world. Malaysia is a peaceful land. And we have to keep it that way. It's inhumane to surround helpless people with guns to bring down their place of worship.

This incident will repeat itself and may present more difficulties to the communities if proactive actions are not taken. It's regrettable to note that Tunku Abdul Rahman's vision for the country has been thrown out of the window by this senseless deed.