I refer to the letter How Umno can regain lost support .

Is it true that the younger Malay generation wants a stronger Umno? I look at the many educated, young Malays and many understand the concepts of justice and equal rights and now question the government's policies on a variety of issues, including even the NEP.

The writer suggests: ‘Extensively advertise and promote in the media the success of Umno in bringing together all the races.’

I argue, however, that this is already being done, especially since Umno and the BN control much of the media. Much money is poured into news, advertisements and gifts. However, what is at the core? Is it not a group of people who truly believe that they have special rights over everyone else and preeminence because of their birth?

The writer also says: ‘Introduce further investment incentives to attract foreign investors, create more jobs, enhance fund inflows, strengthen reserves, upgrade technological levels, etc.’

But there are many investments and projects, as we all know. However, the people on the ground are left out because the project are being hoarded by a small group of people, especially those linked to the prime minister’s son-in-law.

The writer says: ‘Focus on fulfilling race-based needs to get support. For example, Hindus want more temples, the Chinese want more primary and secondary schools, the Malays want more jobs and welfare. Approve them fast.’

But for the last 20 years, the BN government has chosen to play politics and communal politics. It’s not just about approving these things fast and in time for the elections. Such an approach would be short-term.

Anyway, BN is a race-based political coalition. and has chosen to play off the three main component parties against each other. Building a church, for example, may incur the wrath of the Malay conservatives.

Finally, the writer suggests: ‘Be less racist. Malay support for Umno, vis-a-vis the opposition, is now at 60:40. Playing the race card in hopes of whipping up support among the Malays will not only backfire, but also further dilute non-bumiputera support for the BN.’

This is the method of the BN so how do you tell a donkey to gallop like a horse? It’s just the nature of the beast. The BN has been, and always will be, a race-based political coalition. It survives on the suspicion and distrust between the races.

The Chinese will always need the MCA because who knows what Umno will do. And likewise, Umno Youth will always preach that a strong and united Malay community will ensure that the Chinese don't take over.

If the writer truly wants to unite Malaysians to compete in the global arena, and not among ourselves, then the BN is not the government to back. If she wants a less racist Malaysia then, definitely, a race-based political coalition is not going to achieve this.

Look out for a political party that espouses a multi-racial government, justice for all and help for those who are destitute, regardless of race and religion.