Are bureaucrats running the country?
Where does their power come from?
What are their Hidden Agendas?

The unthinkable it seems is happening today.  The devious machinery of bureaucrats or civil servants is de factor running the country, sometimes without the full knowledge or approval of cabinet ministers.  How else can anyone explain the sudden appearance of ‘GUIDELINES for Places of Worship for non-Muslim’ and now, the incorporation of religion in our Identity Cards, ICs.  It is clear that the “Guidelines” was not given approval by the cabinet.

1999 has been a year of adversity for non-Muslims in the country, lamented Vaithilingam president of MCCBCHS.  When things seemed to be going somewhat smoothly, at least on the religious front, non-Muslims were given a “slap” with the absurd “Guidelines for Places of Worship for non-Muslims”, he said.  Soon after, another new ruling for ICs, was set into motion.  At least 100,000 new ICs issued will identify the person’s religious affiliation.  In the past, religion was carefully left out in order to protect the person from discrimination and injustice.

What is going on?  These guidelines and rulings are incomprehensible in a multi-religious and multi-racial country like Malaysia.  Who is responsible for all these and more?  MCCBCHS took these problems to the Deputy P.M and Ministers from MCS, MIC, and even the Gerakan, said Vaithilingam.  It was evident from these meetings that the ministers were unaware of the insidious actions taken by civil servants who arbitrarily put into effect motions that have not even been brought to Parliament for debate. How will the members of Parliament curb these bureaucrats?  Obviously something must be done.

And in the meantime, MCCBCHS and hopefully other groups must and will continue to monitor the unconstitutional and what can only be termed malicious actions of these civil servants, added Vaithilingam.  He also warned non-Muslims that they will continue to lose their rights and privileges simply by default.  Let us welcome the millenium through greater collaboration so that together we can face new challenges.

On behalf of MCCBCHS, Vaithilingam wishes all Hindus a very Happy Deepavali, to all Christians a very Joyful Christmas and to all Malaysians a very Prosperous and Happy New Year.  And may the Almighty God lead the many generations to come with enlightenment towards harmony, happiness and prosperity in Malaysia under one Bahasa Malaysia, irrespective of one’s race or religion.