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I refer to Ong Kian Ming's letter entitled ' Stick to fair comment, Bakri '.

I have been following Bakri Musa's writings for quite some time. I disagree with some of his views but most of his views have been well-argued and explained. In Bakri, I see a shining example of a Malay who dares to pit his credence against the mostly corrupt Malay-dominated Malaysian bureaucracy.

Never mind that he is far away from home but he has been frank and forthright with his views and comments on the murky landscape of Malaysian politics. Whether he talks of Malays or non-Malays, and for that matter all the citizenry, he has largely penned his arguments with logic and reason.

Ong has chided Bakri on the so-called career advice to the PM's adviser. His denunciation seems to stem from his ignorance that the PM's office is public and not private, and sadly he has so soon forgotten the PM's remarks when he took office to "work with him" rather than "work for him".

I felt rather irritated by his another remark that the sheltered serenity of California had made Bakri an outsider to discuss Malaysian politics. Well, that would mean that every Malaysian, once outside this country, is no more a Malaysian. Can you digest that? Such a low-stooped argument is nothing more than a display or arrogant ignorance.

Political maturity is one which is sorely lacking in our country. Perhaps this has been due to the fear culture which has engulfed us. This fear culture has rendered most Malaysians living in the country to express truthfully and honestly. Does Ong really think that any local Malaysian who dares to write the truth will ever be spared?

Ong somehow seems lost in his own world when he talks of academic versus experience. What has this got to do with what Bakri wrote. And the contradiction he dwells - about trust, loyalty, honesty, integrity, etc - isn't this what Bakri is trying to drive home?

It is because of the lack of these virtues, which Ong has been so steadfastly expounding, that it takes an honest and courageous person like Bakri to tell so and in no uncertain terms. Take a look at what he wrote about the PAS manifesto - that man not only has substance but the sincerity and honesty to point it out.

Please give credit to that man who, unlike those who had decided to abandon any thought of this country, still has feelings for the ordinary folks of this country.

If Bakri Musa happens to read this letter - please continue writing your observations. It has always been a source of knowledge and to thee I salute for being courageous and to write what you think is right.

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