This does not sound like Malaysia I know and grew up in.  I have always been proud of the fact that Malaysia is politically stable country, and that its people are warm, friendly, and peace-loving.  Everyone acknowledges that the Anwar Ibrahim trial was a major issue in the country, and that there may still be doubts in some people's minds about the verdict.

But does that warrant rioting and violence in the streets?  The people who preach reformasi and justice for Anwar are doing the exact opposite of what they are saying - by destroying public property and hurting other people.  They blame the police for causing hurt to Anwar, but what about the hurting of the TV3 crew or wrecking cars and innocent people?

Do they know that their acts are being broadcast to the world, magnified, and exaggerated?  Don't these people realise that these acts have an impact on Malaysia's economy?  Do they know that some countries are beginning to compare their actions with those occuring in Indonesia?

Imagine this scenario: The rioting succeeds, and Anwar is released from prison.  What then?

I would consider it as the day Malaysia lost its soul, for it would mark the beginning of a new era - one in which senseless violence becomes the way of the people when it comes to solving problems.  I ask this to the protesters:

How do you feel when you come home today, before going to bed - proud and happy that you have smashed the windows of innocent bystander's car. or thrilled that you have injected fear into the hearts of some Malaysians?

Think before you act; do not let your actions be controlled by your anger and frustrations.  I quote Gerakan Youth chief Datuk Chang Ko Yuan:  "The ballot box in the coming general election is the right time and place to make a difference.  Mob rule on the streets isn't."

What strikes me is that I suspect the agenda of some people is not about "justice for Anwar" but merely seeking a springboard for their own political ends.  I cannot otherwise comprehend why someone would stoop so low as to use students as agents of hate and ruin their future in the process.

One comforting thought is that it is, thankfully, not the way of the majority of Malaysians.  I hail you all for putting your trust in the Government.  We have had some crises in recent years, politically and economically.  Let us not make more trouble for ourselves.  Together, let us get through this 'hiccup'.

Ironically, one of the pictures of the demonstrators that appeared in Alberta papers was very Malaysians.  It was a scene of three men squatting, cowering behind some boxes.  I would have found it a frightening scene if not for one of the men talking on his cellular phone!.