Dear Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi,

In a short period of time that you taken over the reign of the government as our fifth prime minister, we see lots of challenges ahead which will require your urgent attention. I believe you have focused your priorities and will direct your approach towards the more immediate issues confronting this nation under the rule of the Barisan Nasional government.

Former premier Mahathir Mohamad had his hands full in sincere attempts to improve the persistent situation that has confronted the government, and which have been highlighted by the opposition, NGOs and ordinary rakyat . In some instances, Mahathir managed to overcome his critics, despite certain pressures of foreign interference. However, there is still a lot to be done in order to bring about total transparency and social improvements for the nation.

Pak Lah, you have declared that those in authority should "work with you and not to work for you". It is a commendable attribute, which we hope will sink into the heads of many of your subordinates, both in government and the BN. You have also insisted that truth prevail. I believe this new culture will also form the basis of your administration, in line with the teachings of the Quran.

Having said that, do we really need to wait 100 days in order to assess your capability? Absolutely not, as you have already proven to be a true Malaysian leader in your own way - guided by the divine and mercy of Allah s.w.t.

In the past weeks, we have pondered on a few critical issues raised in parliament and through the media.

One of the most controversial and belligerent issues, is perhaps the trial of Irene Fernandez, which still raises some doubt over her conviction. In view of public interest, I urge de facto Law Minister Rais Yatim to seek the truth in getting to the bottom of the investigations and obtain the prosecution papers and to revisit the case immediately.

There should be absolute transparency. Those responsible of hiding the truth should be severely punished. It is pertinent that Irene Fernandez's case not be politicised, just because she is a member of opposition party Keadilan.

Let justice prevail. If she is not found guilty under the eyes of the law, she should be freed immediately. She has the right to file for a recourse of the judgment, with full compensation. Pak Lah, let this case be the truth. Ultimately you will be respected by the people, including members of the opposition.

You have also declared a war against corruption, which has already reached endemic levels in all areas of the public service, and in some cases, corporate entities. There is a lot of hue and cry for the many corrupt practices to be uncovered. Even the business world knows the various shortcuts to take in in order to get things done to their favour.

In the words of JV Langmead Casserley, "Because men are everywhere corruptible and always corrupted, no man or group of men can be trusted with too much power at all which is not balanced or checked by the power of other men."

Let's speak the truth and face the truth, nothing but the truth. Bravo Pak Lah, and once again congratulations to you as our fifth prime minister. Take time to chart your own destiny. I am sure you will live up to our expectations as Mr Clean and Mr Nice Guy, as you are fondly known to all of us.