COMMENT | No one expected Malaysia Baru to be formed overnight, but at times, it appears that to take two steps forwards, one must take ten steps backwards.

Racism is still around. Politicians pander to the bigots, because their votes are still needed. Those who make the most noise and threaten violence get immediate attention. As before, the moderates appear to be consumed by apathy and stay silent.

Both mainstream and alternative media are acutely aware that to attract the wrong sort of attention from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) risks severe penalties.

The saddest loss is, naturally to our freedom of expression, but this right is one you must staunchly protect and uphold. Below is my A-to-Z list of political sensitivities gone mad. You probably have more to add to my list.

Altantuya Shaariibuu. The Mongolian model and translator was murdered in 2006. The current trial means that my lips are sealed. I have enough unpublished opinion pieces about her, and the people linked to her, to fill a few folders.

Blood. Who would work for a party or company, when the boss's wife, or husband, or son, or daughter, is on the payroll? The creative and most talented applicants will shy away, because they know they do not stand a chance against "family". Remember the axiom, "blood is thicker than water?"

Crosses: The phobia of the cross has been manufactured by certain politicians, who are desperate to play the religious card, to tug at the heartstrings of the Malays. Easter is approaching, and hot cross buns have been taken off the menu...