The government's noble intention of dividing the economic cake between all strata of society under the 9th Malaysia Plan is welcomed by all. But needless to say, all is not well with the distribution of the economic cake.

The modern cities of Putrajaya, Shah Alam, the Twin Towers do not mean we are a developed country. We are not developed as long as people still stay in squatters areas and have difficulties in eking out a living, as long as abject poverty is still around and as long as corruption is a norm.

Affirmative action by the government to help the poor should be colour and race blind as the urban and rural poor in this country are made up of various races.

The poor in the hinterlands of Sarawak and Sabah have the same right as their brethren in West Malaysia to be lifted out of their cycle of poverty. The Malay heartlands of Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu have the same right as their rich cousins in the cities to taste development no matter what political affiliations they profess.

It would take strong political and moral will on the part of the government to change the mindset of the public in that there is no such thing as a 'free lunch' in this country. Rewards should be given to those who work hard to achieve success and not because of their connections.

Surely after nearly fifty years of independence and thirty years of the NEP, the Malay businessman should think globally to expand his business instead of depending of government handouts to survive.

There are several successful Malay businessmen who have survived several recessions to emerge stronger than ever. They should be role models for other Malay entrepreneurs to emulate.

The government cannot continue to act like Santa Claus in dishing out government projects to those who are incapable in finishing their work. Massive projects, which cost millions to build should only be given to the competent contractors who have a reputation for good quality.

The government has to learn from it past mistake. Malaysians regardless of race and creed will support the government if they are firm and fair to all the races in this country.