The letter Cooperation with unrepentant PAS will spell disaster shows that some segments of our society fail to appreciate the pluralism of the Malaysian society. This attitude is clearly backward.

Just because PAS holds certain views which are not in tandem with the writer's, then no one should be allowed to befriend PAS. This attitude actually does not differ from that of the Taliban.

If PAS were to hold to this same attitude, the division in our society would be much worse. Fortunately, the PAS leadership chooses to be more mature, moderate and realistic. It is willing to work with people who not only have different, but also opposing views to it in the interest of our nation.

This represents the future of Malaysian politics which appreciates the pluralism and dynamism of its citizens. Forcing either Islam or secularism onto our society will not bring about a fruitful outcome.

Preventing people from working together, even among those who hold opposing views, will not do any good for our nation. In fact, we should appreciate any effort to foster cooperation, discussion and alignment.

I believe all political parties and I mean all - should embrace the culture of cooperation. They should regularly hold discussions among themselves to sort out their problems and work together on things they can agree on. They should manage their differences in the most democratic manner.

Alienating any segment of our society will only spark more division and extremism. PAS has continued its political struggle for more than half a century. This party will continue to grow and have a strong influence.

The best choice is to engage them, not alienate them.