They can’t see past end of their nose 18 NOVEMBER 2014 @ 8:08 AM IT is regrettable that the rape of Cameron Highlands has been going on under the very eyes that were supposed to protect it. And the worst part is that those very eyes disavowed any knowledge of the crime. Instead, they expressed astonishment that such blatant acts could happen under their watch. This is clearly a case of people who can’t see beyond the end of the nose. It is really adding insult to injury when they seek sympathy and understanding for their inability to monitor and curb these activities. Lame excuses of not having enough manpower and facilities to prevent such activities and their inability to discern illegal immigrants only expose the extent of their sham. Their reaction to such a debacle is a classic example of passing the buck and denying accountability. The rape of Cameron Highlands has exposed the lackadaisical attitude of those who are responsible for its wellbeing. As the Malay saying goes, “Harapkan pagar, pagar makan padi.” Clearly, the top echelon has failed in its duties. It is of no use to keep on setting up committees to audit, oversee, to develop action plan and to rehabilitate. As proven before, it will be an exercise in futility. What is needed to be done is to bring to book those who are responsible for this catastrophic incident without fear or favour, as a warning to those who intend to continue such activities. We cannot count on the culprits to have any compunction, for they are consumed by greed and avarice. To ensure that such wanton destruction of people’s assets is not repeated, we should develop a culture of accountability that reflects integrity and honesty. We should develop the ability of foresight rather than hindsight in planning, and preemptive rather than reactive actions. We must also develop a culture of accountability that reflects integrity and honesty. Hopefully, the scars of the Camerons landscape will be etched in the conscience of the good and God-fearing politicians and civil servants to prevent a repeat of this fiasco. Mohamed Ghouse Nasuruddin, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang nst.my/node/53900
Posted on: Wed, 19 Nov 2014 00:44:14 +0000
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