Netizens should only use the power of network wisely and responsibly in order to spread tolerance and to transcend all racial, religious and social boundaries, instead of using it to spread hate.

The recent issue whereby a woman had resorted to road rage after her car was accidentally hit by another car driven by an elderly man has spread quickly throughout the internet community, and the women’s racist comments of cursing the man’s race contains elements of racism, yet the man had chosen to forgive her instead of pressing charges.   

During that incident, many netizens had condemned the woman for her behaviour, and had even made her information public to others.

This shows the power of the Internet, and I urge netizens to be responsible with this tremendous amount of power. If used responsibly, this power can be used for much good.

This incident also shows that Malaysians are open-minded enough to overlook racial boundaries and to tell right from wrong, and this attitude is what will form the basis of our multiracial nation’s progress.

Seeing as the woman has already apologized, it is hoped that the issue is considered resolved and that society can allow her to atone for her mistakes;  while at the same time we can learn from the elderly victim who had displayed tolerance and generosity in accepting her apology.

I hope that Malaysian netizens in the future can reflect on this issue in handling future problems, and to use their power to spread positive thoughts, and to do away with any false pictures or allegations meant to discredit others

MARCO YAP is MCA publicity bureau deputy chairperson.