Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi should be commended for striking the right note when he advised over 300 students leaders from 18 public universities that they must start preparing themselves for the 'real world' which runs on meritocracy.

Unfortunately, the keynote address did not get the type of high-powered hype and follow-up endorsement from various quarters which includes politicians and "politician wannabes". This was expected, as for over four decades our politicians did not have the moral or ethical courage to say the right thing till Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad spoke on the subject at the Umno general assembly last year.

Incoming premier Abdullah continues with the trend. But for the advice to take root, there should be a well-planned and comprehensive political will and vision to steer it through what is expected to be a defiant opposition from groupings within the Barisan Nasional fold.

Certain junior and sidelined politicians would want to be " wira bangsa " and they will certainly fan various sentiments for their own political and private agenda. This has worked in the past and they would hope that this may work for them too.

And for the record, for too long some leaders have said one thing publicly and acted otherwise in private. Whether it is on the growing issue of corruption, meritocracy, abuse of power, corporate governance, accountability and the need to elect local government representatives - the 'pussy footing endeavours' is clearly visible.

But it is clear Abdullah is convinced that change is needed as we move towards globalisation, where domestic issues and government policies become quite visible to investors and foreign business interests, and where protectionist or racialist policies of any form and kind is detested.

This is why our deputy premier is urging the disposal of the "subsidy mentality - the ridding of the tongkat " so that one will be able to strive and compete in the "real world" without the assistance of ruling politicians and the government.

For this to work, the government should immediately disarm itself from actively providing "unhealthy assistance, subsidies and awards" not based on merit that propels a novice company or a politically-connected individual over other more deserving cases.

One need not go far - a look at the number of 'failed or delayed' government construction and infrastructure contracts given in several states through the system of 'political patronage' is clear indication that all is not well. And, when this has repeatedly happened, and the courage to expose or punish is absent, and when whistle-blowers are instead threatened, the people are confused.

How many would have the moral, ethical and political courage to do so, only time will tell. We will find out after October 2003.