I have to admit, I'm an outsider. I am neither Malay, nor Chinese, nor Indian. I'm therefore not in a position to argue for my right to the special privileges provided by the New Economic Policy (NEP).

However, what I find most interesting is that none of the authors of the recent letter traffic debating pro-bumiputera policies appears to be in that position either.

Judging by the language, the sometimes thoughtful analysis, and the use of historical detail, I can o­nly assume that the vast majority, if not all, of these authors are well educated, economically secure individuals.

And yet we are all discussing, arguing, and fighting over a policy founded essentially to level the economic disparity between the disenfranchised and the well-endowed. Can we not all admit, readers and contributors to malaysiakini , that we are the well-endowed? And then, carefully, can we ask ourselves, "Whom are we speaking for?"

This is not a minor point, nor a simple question to answer.

It is very easy to associate o­neself with a larger group and then assume that o­ne speaks o­n its behalf. When ethnic ties are involved, it is almost impossible not to do so.

But consider which pair faces more common challenges and possesses more mutual understanding - the unemployed Malay Malaysian squatting in KL and his counterpart "driving around in Mercedes Benzes", or the same unemployed fellow and his friend, an out-of-work Indian Malaysian, squatting a few blocks away?

Whom do you speak for?

I argue that the recipients of special privileges should reflect the intended beneficiaries of the NEP the economically disadvantaged. There must be a shift from ethnically centered- to need-based social and economic assistance.

While this transition will understandably be difficult, it is inevitable, and reflects the positive evolution of Malaysian society.

And as we who constitute the voice of Malaysia continue to argue over special privileges, we must remember: Is the debate about forcing more hardships upon the struggling Malay, Indian, or Chinese Malaysian? Of course not. Is it about relinquishing institutional advantages for us? Yes, it is.