I am writing this in response to Aniza Harun's letter, [#1]Why do we need special rights[/#] (Dec 18)?

The special rights that we have been enjoying are part of the constitution, as part of the deal of granting the Indians and the Chinese, Malaysian citizenship. I understand that they have also contributed to our country's wealth, but sometimes some things have to be preserved.

Look at the US today; they are dominated by the white people who initially came from Europe. What happened to the Native Americans who were there before these people came? I once had the chance to visit one of their "homes", and there is also a place called Mesa Verde where the Indians used to live. Nobody knew where they disappeared to, there was no trace at all!

This may and may not happen, but I hate to picture the Malays disappearing over time. I understand that the special rights make some Malays lazy, and I know that over time, changes are inevitable. Thus I felt the need to call for the Malays to take advantage of the rights when we still have it.

Just because you and I are successful, do not forget about other people around us. Yes, the Malays have a long way to go still and we still need those special rights.