I SHARE the shock and disbelief by the vast majority of Malaysians that speakers at political
                        rallies can resort to such sick and abusive language as was reportedly uttered against the Prime
                        Minister at a recent political rally in Padang Besar (NST, Aug 29).

                        Decisive action must be taken against any party that misuses the platform to throw abuses and
                        profanities against anyone, especially elected leaders of the nation.

                        What "Tok Misai" said, if he truly did, is despicable and shameful.

                        Malaysians of all races and religions must distance themselves from such thoughts, language or
                        actions. Clearly such words are sick and dangerous as they can lead to hatred, division and
                        disharmony.

                        There ought to be close monitoring of public and political speeches so that no such "rubbish" is
                        heard on the stage.

                        The situation is bound to escalate once the election isofficially announced.

                        While such speakers and speeches may be crowd-pullers, we can never estimate the potential
                        damage it can cause.

                        Prevention is better than cure. Perhaps, all ceramah or rallies should be restricted to smaller
                        premises and should not be in open spaces.

                        This may take the "sting" out of political meetings but it is better to ensure safety than to play with
                        the fires of emotion that may be explosive and volcanic.

                        Whatever our feelings, views or discontentment with the leadership, Government or any
                        particular individual, we must not stoop so low into the filth and shame of dirty politics.

                        There are enough intellectuals, mature and educated members of both the ruling coalition and
                        opposition, who should set the standard themselves and ensure that whoever conducts a rally
                        does not use such language.

                        Everyone must be held responsible for his or her words and actions and no one is above the law.

                        Enoch Sng
                        Kuala Lumpur