It is interesting to note that a cross-party caucus of Malaysian parliamentarians, chaired by member of parliament for Kota Baru Zaid Ibrahim, has taken the initiative to host an international workshop in Kuala Lumpur this weekend for the promotion of democracy in Burma/Myanmar.

This augurs well, not only for liberalism in Malaysia, but also for the confronting of pre-existing taboos of 'selective non-interference' in the affairs of fellow Asean nations. In this increasingly borderless and globalised world, one cannot hide one's head in the sand like the proverbial ostrich.

What goes on in our neighbours' land, like it or not, will have direct or indirect impacts on us. What is happening in southern Thailand, for example, is certainly a cause for concern in Malaysia, particularly the border states.

The issue of democracy and free elections in Burma has become a bone of contention, especially in Asean's dealings with the Western economies. It is no use going on whining that trade matters have to be divorced from political ones, as pressure within civil society in Europe and America dictates otherwise.

Therefore, it is becoming increasingly imperative that Malaysia and Asean take a great deal of interest in what goes on in Burma. They have to engage the ruling authorities in a non-confrontational way, and gradually convince them that their style of government, in this day and age, just won't do.

Their resultant continued isolation can only produce negative effects, much to the detriment of development, education and progress of the Burmese people.

It would not be presumptuous to assume that Southeast Asian nations are likely to assist in whatever way possible to achieve democracy in Burma, as it is to the region's eventual benefit. It is therefore hoped that the military authorities in Burma will lend an objective ear to the upcoming proceedings in Kuala Lumpur this weekend.