Q: I pick the ball more than I hit it.

So yea, you caught me; your head shaking in dismay as I watched the videos on replay. It is evident that I am growing older, for what interests me this week is the political debate between CSL and LGE. (Not the Canadian Soccer League and LG Electronics, mind you; I don’t really see how those two could ever debate on a similar topic.) It is a proud moment to be a Malaysian, knowing that your country has changed the ways of educating the public at large and it is without a doubt, more transparent than before, readily accessible for the whole world to see.

Our ex-PM is not so sure about that, quoted "This is not America but, even in the US, debates only serve to expose how stupid the candidates are.” You know, I do agree with that. But isn’t that one of the purpose of having a debate? You learn more about the candidates you’re voting for, and if they mess up, they have to fess up. Are you saying that we shouldn’t debate because it will expose how incapable some of our candidates are? Now that’s just plain weird. If so, they shouldn’t be a candidate, let alone be debating. Save face while they can. To lead the country, I am convinced that the candidate representing the people should be smart (so we wouldn’t have to bear the brunt of his/her silly mistakes, should the candidate be otherwise) and yes, put Malaysians’ best interests at heart. Not because of the stature of authority the package comes with and certainly not because there is a chance to upset the growth of our nation.

He said Malaysians were also "not yet that mature" to deal with political debates, adding that the public still had a tendency to allow emotions to take over from rational discussion.

Very true again. But realize this, it is just the beginning. And like every beginnings, it is rough but give the tumbleweed more rounds to roll, and we’re on to something greater (and bigger like the tumbleweed). Let Jessie Ooi be a lesson to those who are ready to commit such atrocity on national television and the debating world. I have absolute faith in the human race that we always learn to be better. Please Youtube search her name if you don’t understand a word I said. (Or just stay in school, people.)

I digress. It is still early for me to judge which party I would support this GE. These days, everyone can make promises, then the question lies on who can actually keep them? But as how I pray the candidates should be elected, that is how I would be as I vote; have in mind that the person I choose would be for Malaysia’s future, nothing more, nothing less.

No ikan bakar?
Vonnie S.