I commend James Wong Wing o­n for his analytical views o­n the reactions by Malaysian leaders over the controversial article by the Economist. Many of our leaders, particularly certain individuals mentioned by Wong, have a "third-class intellectual capacity" despite working in an environment of "first-class infrastructure" (adapting from the deputy prime minister's recent remarks).

I cannot but agree more that our political culture vis-a-vis intellectual growth is hampered by personal ambitions and self-vested interests - whether you call it blind loyalty or patriotism, it makes no difference. Religious values and moral thinking have been cast aside, and rights or wrongs are no longer important.

Adoring and worshipping the principal leader in charge has tragically become our political culture, as practised by intellectually impotent leaders.

This becomes more glaring during party power struggles and general elections, usually among lower-ranking politicians who aspire for higher posts. When was the last time that we have heard of politicians equating their political practices in accordance to religious beliefs or even believe in something true to their hearts? Though I am not saying there are none, I doubt you will find many.

It is a rare breed indeed for you to find politicians who have the guts and the courage to say what is right or wrong with a conscience, irrespective of consequences to their political ambitions.

We are often told by politicians of how important our traditional values and morals are, that we as a nation must grow spiritually towards Vision 2020. Sadly, many of us are wise to realise that politicians who preach this don't even put their social conscience into practice.

In order for progress, we must strive to have the freedom of intellectual space, and to build a responsible intellectual environment to debate, to discuss and to shape our national destiny. "Thoughts are the forerunner of all actions," so the Buddha said. And more importantly, who knows, we might breed an intellectually-wise class of politicians, some day.