The PAS bashing in recent letters by various persons only sends out the message - 'Vote Barisan Nasional.'

I'm no great pool player but when you play the game and can't find a clear path to pot a ball through the mass of balls on the table, the only option left is to simply shoot the white ball into the mass of balls and scatter enough balls to hopefully create a clear path for potting a ball on your next turn.

From past experience, the PAS bashers have voiced opinions against the Barisan Nasional but they now flinch at the prospect of even having a stronger opposition coalition including PAS, let alone a future coalition government including PAS.

If freedom to gamble, drink alcohol and indulge in sensual pleasure are foremost in their minds, then they are really not that different from someone who votes Barisan Nasional for stability, wealth and riches.

The present state of Malaysian politics is such and they must realise that at the end of the day, they can't both have their cake and eat it as well, and if they want change they must be prepared to take the rough with the smooth.

Thus, it would be far more productive if they invested their energies in working out a set of demands that a future stronger opposition or alternative coalition government to repeal the various draconian and unjust laws and policies in force in our country at present and introduce more just ones in their place.

Of course, we'll probably have to drink coffee or tea in Bangsar on a Saturday night but if that's the price to pay for a more just system and more political space, then so be it.

On the other hand, if we want beer and wine while playing pool, then continue voting Barisan Nasional.

What are your priorities?