No tears were shed when the news of the death of the infamous Malaysian bomber, Dr Azahari Husin was made known yesterday. The death of the former lecturer who masterminded the bombings and killings of innocent people in Bali and Jakarta will in one way or another be a comfort to the families of the victims.

I suppose if one live by the sword, one will die by it too. One hopes there now won't be any zealots who intend to committ suicide with the intention of highlighting Azahari's cause.

Surely we have enough news of killings and bombings throughout the world which have caused enough pain and suffering. One tend to be less sanguine over peace and harmony on this planet called Earth what with the latest suicide attack in Jordan where scores of people were killed.

Saudi Arabia has its fair share of terrorist attacks; the Palestinians have their running battle with their Israeli occupier and now Jordan is facing terrorists acts. Syria and Iran, meanwhile, are up against American forces due to their independent stands while other leaders in the region are beholden to American support to remain in office

The lack of democracy in the region is the main cause of the people there revolting and using violence to highlight their causes. It is sad to see Iraq, which is supposed to be the new beacon of democracy in the Middle East, still struggling to find their road map to peace.

Our country is blessed with peace and harmony unlike Thailand, Indonesia and even the Philippines which have had their fair share of sectarian violence. It is to close for comfort.

One has to give credit to our security personnel who have managed to keep terrorists from our shores. Hopefully our country will be the oasis of calm amidst these turbulent times.