I am saddened by the recent destruction of the Dewan Tunku Canselor in Universiti Malaya by the fire. I still have fond memories of DTC for the functions that I have attended there, though I was never a UM student. I believe that the unfortunate incident is very valuable to open the minds and hearts of the masses (our national leaders included).

If UM graduates are 'allowed' to feel so strongly about DTC for the few hours they were there for their convocation, and public figures to declare their sorrow for the loss of DTC, what about the loss of institutions like the Ipoh Main Convent and Bukit Bintang Girls School in KL, and the plans to obliterate Stadium Merdeka and Stadium Negara? These buildings are symbols of independence and unity of the nation.

Can we honestly, as mature people capable of emotions and intelligence, justify the intentional demolition of historically significant edifices which ooze with heartfelt history in every one of its brick and mortar? More so when those who indulge in such acts of destruction are supposed to be responsible citizens?

The DTC episode should rouse the authorities into reviewing their plans before more of the nation's heritage crumble to dust under the ignominious pretense of development.

The DTC can be rebuilt back to its original form, but when the stadiums are gone, the convent, the school - it will be forever.