'Malaysia truly Asia', the slogan of Visit Malaysia Year 2007, has become utterly lamentable and a laughing stock after the many shameful events that has happened in the 50th anniversary of this country's independence. While the government welcomes millions of tourists, the 'Truly Asia' country's citizens presented their own amazing shows.

Three rallies took place within two months. All three were branded "illegal" although organisers had promised it would be held peacefully. Protesters faced obstruction, arrest and even oppression by the police. It is unimaginable that these violations of human rights can happen in a so-called multicultural, harmonious and democratic country. Perhaps, fair without but foul within.

Rallies are a normal phenomenon in a democracy. But this democratic culture is inconceivably negated by the entire BN government who say that rallies are not part of Malaysia's culture. Somehow, when talking to the media, these officers have selective amnesia forgetting that the Malays had held peaceful rallies when striving for independence. The democratic way, used by our virtuous ancestors half a century ago to fight for independence, is totally negated by the government.

Participants of the 'Walk for Justice', Bersih and Hindraf's rallies were willing to march peacefully. Unfortunately, police had declined the organisers' permit. To the police, it is reasonable to use force to disperse participants of illegal rallies. Nevertheless, when facing protesters who just want to express their demands without any violence, it is irrational to treat them in that manner.

Even though it is an illegal rally, it was largely peaceful. The police should have played a surveillance role, not as reckless oppressors. It is shameful that people who want to exercise their fundamental constitutional right to assemble need to play "cat and mouse" with the police due to the their rash use of chemical-laced water and tear gas under the Petronas twin towers, the landmark of our capital.

'Malaysia, truly Asia' is indeed a nice slogan to show our country's multiculturalism. The three rallies sent the obvious message to our government that our citizens are desperate for justice. Many problems such as corruption, poverty and violation of human rights are more serious in Asian countries than in Western countries. Therefore, our honourable government leaders should change their policies to prevent Malaysia from becoming 'Truly Asia'.