I cannot but agree wholeheartedly with Pensioner that the same game will continue. This nexus between politics and money as epitomised by Malaysia Inc is at the root of corruption.

Pak Lah has the opportunity to make a difference. If he is really sincere he would liberate the Anti Corruption Agency from under the aegis of the prime minister's department. This one act and giving the body the power and clout it needs to make a difference will convince skeptics like Pensioner and myself that he is serious of making a difference in this country.

Does he have the faith and the moral courage to make the difference? If he does, he could probably not only save the nation, but also Umno and the BN in the long run. Mahathir has given us enough rhetoric and tears but very little commitment to eradicate corruption, as his motive has always been power and not justice.

The state of our judiciary since he took power exemplifies this reality. For those of us who earn a monthly salary and pay our taxes on time, I find it difficult how people can amass such wealth. The extravagant lifestyle of our ministers - with their cars, home and the ability to dole out for charity - beats my simple mind.

If loyalty is measured by the flag, then we have to find new yardsticks to measure what is corrupt and what is not. Pak Lah, can you make a difference?