I agree that Malays are generally afraid of losing the hak bumiputera and all other privileges they are enjoying now ([#1]Fobia Melayu[/#], Dec 13). This is a natural and fair reaction, just like how the Chinese are afraid of losing more Chinese schools if the Vision School concept is applied to all.

However, I do not agree with the writer, that the reason is that of the Singapore example. First of all, the Malays in Singapore are not ill-treated. They receive help from the government and NGOs and do not lack in self-esteem.

I am a Malaysian who studied in Singapore and I know a number of Malays friends who are happy and satisfied with their lives. I also found that the Malays in Singapore are more confident, prouder and independent than most of the Malays in Malaysia. They are also more IT-savvy and more proficient in English.

One of [#2]Suqiu[/#]'s appeals is equal opportunity for all in education. I obtained eight A1s and one A2 for SPM, and yet I was denied a chance to pursue a degree in local universities. I do not come from a rich family and going overseas is definitely not an option. Luckily, I was accepted by Singapore University and I got a bank loan to see me through my studies.

One other thing is, overseas universities (in Singapore and Australia) accept students from Chinese independent schools, but local universities can't. Why is this so? Can anyone enlighten me on this, someone from the education ministry?

Thus, I think Suqiu's appeals are fair and right. They are just asking for a fairer treatment for all Malaysians regardless of race. We should stop making excuses like "this is not the right time", "we are not ready", "Malays are still far behind", etc. The world is changing so rapidly today, and yet many of us cannot accept this fact and embrace it.