I am a Malaysian and a non-bumiputera, currently pursuing graduate-level studies at the University of Hawaii. Most of the professors have less than salubrious views of Malaysia. As a Malaysian I take every opportunity to counter their arguments and paint a better picture of this country. I do that because Malaysia is my motherland which I love very much. And, believe me that there are countless non-bumiputeras who love this country as much as anyone else in Malaysia.

But, what do we get in return? Non-Malays are constantly reminded to be grateful for what they have. Even the most demure of Malay politicians make it a point to remind non-Malays that we are here only because of the magnanimity of the Malays. It is as if the rite of passage into his political adulthood will not be complete if he does not make such a proclamation.

What is it that we have done wrong?

Anak Malaysia in Failing to see bigger Malaysian picture claims that the government only gave him a shove in his pursuit of education and success in life. I am sure that shove to study in a top British university came with a full scholarship and living stipend. I am not questioning that. In fact the government can help 100 percent of the bumiputeras if it wants to — from the poor fisherman to the billionaire.

All I am asking for is that similar assistance be given to deserving Malaysians of other races who come from disadvantaged backgrounds. The government need not help those who are rich , but assistance must be rendered to those who need it very much. Similar assistance must be given in all spheres of life. Help the pockets of non-bumiputeras who deserve help.

I am not griping, when I say I wrote to numerous government agencies and that not even one bothered to reply. Talk about courtesy. Now, my education is being fully sponsored by a Japanese organisation.

How can non-bumiputeras be expected to show their undivided loyalty and love for the country when their needs are not being catered to? How do you think they would feel when they are constantly harangued to be grateful to the kindness lavished on them by bumiputeras?

Is it any surprise that they move out of Malaysia when they get the opportunity? This trend must be reversed. Provide help and keep them here. With increasing migration of non-bumiputeras and the decreasing birth rate among them (primarily because parents are concerned about not being able to provide quality education to their children), there is every danger that Malaysia might end up being a single-race country.

At least, the overzealous Malay politicians cannot then make us their punching bags.