DAP protest subsidy demonstration opposition
(Picture for representational purposes only). The police barricaded the roads to near Dataran Merdeka and stay on guard to deter protestors gathering at the area. PIX: MOHD ADZLAN / MalaysiaGazette / 21 AUGUST 2021. Anggota polis mengawal setiap jalan berhampiran Dataran Merdeka berikutan bagi mengelakkan segelintir orang awam berhimpun ketika tinjauan lensa Malaysia Gazette di sekitar Kuala Lumpur. Foto MOHD ADZLAN, 21 OGOS 2021.
The following article is submitted to the editorial of MalaysiaGazette by reader, Michael Andrews.

As a foreigner living in Malaysia for several years now, I must say this country is among the most peaceful, harmonious nations in the world.

Malaysians are a kind, peace-loving lot who just want to enjoy their lives without any trouble.

Malaysia is not a nation riddled with demonstrations or street protests. In fact, this is something unheard of in Malaysia.

I was pretty shocked and surprised to read recent reports where the Opposition parties in Malaysia, namely the Democratic Action Party called on the people to protest over certain subsidies and aid announced by the Prime Minister recently.

After seeking clarification over the matter, I was told that the announcements made by the Prime Minister were fair and warranted.

From what I gather, a whole lot of people misunderstood the whole matter as the subsidies for cooking oil were not actually lifted, but merely reverted to its original pricing mechanism.

The government introduced certain subsidies during the Covid-19 pandemic and it is only fair that they be removed now since the situation is returning to normal.

Also, why are people being so ungrateful? An additional RM100 as aid for the poor is certainly something to shout about.

RM100 would be about USD$27 which is actually a lot of money.

At this point when most economies are in the process of recovering, any little assistance certainly goes a long way.

Political parties in the Opposition should not be instigating and inciting the people, instead, they should look into their own backyards and figure out means to help the people.

Why point fingers at others when you have four others pointed straight back at you?

Michael Andrews
Subang Jaya
Malaysia

Editorial note: The views expressed are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysia Gazette.