I refer to the Malaysiakini report Mukhriz: Close down vernacular schools .

I tend to believe that this is the right direction towards national unity. However, it is premature to even consider it for the near future as a lot of ground work needs to be done to pave the way for a change in the people's mindset to accept it as one of the solutions to bring about a common national identity.

Our racial identity, though we treasure it very much, has to go some day if we want to achieve our very own Malaysian identity with the blending of the rich cultural and ethnic backgrounds. to In order to realise this major change, there is no place for communal segregation or profiling.

As a first step, remove all racial and religious classifications in all documents, including our MyKad.

Education is the surest way and should be given top priority to teach our children from a very tender age that we are all one and not create divisive thinking in their minds that carries over to adulthood. They should not look at a person of a different faith or race with suspicion or as an outsider.

Consequently, schools should reflect a balanced racial composition of teaching staff all working together to achieve the ultimate aim. Today it is very one-sided.

If no proper education is given in this direction, Mukhriz's suggestion and comments on this matter will be taken as seditious or a removal of one's constitutional right.

Thus, Mukhriz, you have the right concept in mind but if you really have a sincere intention for a united nation, then you and every one of your Umno colleagues must work hard to get the ball rolling.

This is not something that can happen out of the blue. Are you willing to spearhead this colossal task?

In the process of working towards it, there will be a lot of objections even to the extent of showing displeasure through protests and counter-protests. Thus the stakes are high but the final outcome will be blissful and richly rewarding.

Too many irrational and inconsiderate statements have been made by politicians to either get even or out of spite. One who is responsible and supposed to play a pivotal rule in maintaining stability and harmony, cannot just shoot his or her mouth off.

Some politicians even go to the extent of making derogatory comments that are treated lightly when the punishment should be an outright sack from public service for showing gross immaturity and lack of respect for the House.

The BN government is definitely not working hard to unite the people but promoting a more communal thinking.

One has to accept that for changes to take place, there have to be sacrifices even to the extent of giving up something that has been part and parcel of our heritage. We should ask ourselves the question, ‘Are we willing to go all the way to realise this vision or only just willing to give up a bit here and there?’