Recently, if the mainstream press are to be believed, the Pakatan Rakyat coalition is coming apart at the seams. Strangely, the so-called ‘rebels’ have not followed through with their alleged

threats to leave the PKR. In fact, PKR is stronger than ever.

Similarly, many in the virtual media have volunteered their comments and opinions about the impending demise of the Barisan Nasional. Umno, it seems, is un-electable. All political parties associated with them are going to die a natural death. But the BN is still in power at the federal level and their hold on the financial taps of each and every Malaysian state is stronger than ever.

In short, we have reached a political stalemate. Even if a few PR or BN parliamentarians or state assembly persons cross the floor, the balance of power will not shift too dramatically. So long as this situation continues, in the long run, the rakyat wins.

The above assessment is why Malaysiakini said that the ‘rakyat’ won the biggest praise last year. But this year, the same rakyat will have to see if their decision to elect a political stalemate will see them through a year of economic turbulence. In short, this is our wake-up call.

In the past, we gave our votes freely to one political coalition that promised to take care of all our needs. Last year, by electing a stalemate, we have resolved to take some of the responsibilities onto our shoulders. Some of us have ventured out, writing blogs, acting as watchdogs and providing assistance to newly-elected state governments.

This year, we need more people to translate their commitment to Malaysia into action. Never mind lofty aims. Of course, fighting for what you believe in is important but so is making sure one fulfills basic civic duties. In my time at school, before the KBSR and KBSM, we had civics lessons. We were taught how to be responsible citizens. But it seems most of us forget about this as we grow up.

Take Penang as an example. One can complain about the dirty beaches and terrible traffic congestion but most people never think twice about using plastics. We are responsible for the tide of plastic bags that wash ashore. Traffic congestion is particularly bad because Penangites insist on double and triple-parking. They do not care if they are blocking traffic so long as they get to do what they want to do. We need to put others before ourselves!

Having made that crucial electoral choice, it is time to take up the cudgels and make a better society. A cynical Malaysian friend said to me that Malaysians are only interested in politics once every five years. They expect their elected representatives to do everything.

Well, if that attitude continues than the political change will be for nothing. Neither the PR or the BN will respect us if we do not lift a finger to help ourselves. If the rakyat is to enjoy the fruits of their political choice, we have to lead by example. Politicians will then toe the line.