In Malaysia, two forces collide. One is of the more powerful all controlling force, that opines peace between the races and economic stability should be achieved at the sacrifice of personal freedom.

The other force is of the all righteous liberal group that fights for the right of every race and individual for equal opportunity in all aspects. The crusts of the government's strength are the Internal Security Act, New Economic Policy and control of media and Election Commission, and the law enforcers. Hence, it will never be a fair game for the liberal group.

The issue of judiciary crisis, Anwar Ibrahim's trial, Altantuya Shaaribuu's misadventure, Lina Joy's unjoyful ending, etc, have plenty of smelly hidden odour in the backyard. Fight we may try, but the government control is too paramount to overcome. Complains and grudges highlighted in more daring media and blogs, elevating dissent against the current system, but no worthy action is/can be taken.

We cast our votes but EC is not 'independent'. For those who feel victimised by the system, we feel trapped and hopeless. For those who know how to manipulate and benefit from the system, Malaysia is their safe haven.

Let's face it, only a forceful army and international assistance, or another social uprising will change the political scene. History of humankind has always been violent and it is violence and revolution that change the course of the country in most instances. But ask ourselves, is it worth the cause? The answer is no. Our country is peaceful despite all its inequalities. Let's not take it for granted. But is there a perfect country in this world that should be a model for every other nation to follow? I doubt it.

So what should we do with our victimised feelings? One, we can migrate. Two, we can continue to complain and hope that the government will change its stance (unlikely in my lifetime). Three, ignore it and do the best you can to survive. Four, join them and manipulate the system, i.e. convert to Islam and marry bumis. Five, fight overtly like the opposition and risk detention. You decide, my fellow Malaysians.

To be fair to the current government, it is no easy task to govern any multiracial nation. Understanding, respecting each other cultures and religions and interracial marriages are the only methods to integrate different cultures. Of course, not everyone will be pleased. But it's a gross mistake if you are to marginalise races in your policy. That is not integration. It's discriminative and goes contrary to the integrative objective. It also breeds corruption through its loopholes.

The discriminative NEP has to end at certain point to allow social-healing and full integration to commence rooting. Financial gain/advantage is superficial/temporary and will not integrate any race. Ask any bumi entrepreneurs that has benefited from NEP, do they feel any closer to other race now that they are almost at par financially? Trust between the races has to be nurtured and that is the key to integration and a greater Malaysia.

In the land of Malaysia, conflict in life goes on