The AP issue is important because this reveals an instance of how the NEP has been grossly abused. The politicians and the bureaucrats in this instance have joined together and taken ordinary Malaysians for a ride.

Whatever International Trade and Industry Minister Rafidah Aziz may have said, she has not justified the rationale by which so many APs were given to just a few individuals. We are not talking about millions but billions of ringgit.

The gap between policy and implementation is one that is often exploited by self-serving groups. Where accountability and transparency is weak and or absent, the nexus between the politician and the civil servant thrives. The AP saga is a good example of this nexus.

Otherwise how can a former Miti personnel, now in the private sector, amass so much wealth is such a short span of time?

Rafidah cannot just explain this away. She knew about it and condoned it for there were benefits which are indirect and difficult for the ordinary masses to grasp. Any reasonable person would know that it was unjust. She is too smart but has very little respect for the intelligence of ordinary minds.

We must get the details, even if this means others in the corridors of power will be also embarrassed. The full story must be told and all information declared.

Otherwise, the damage for Pak Lah would be immense and the gap between his talk and deed will be obvious. Malaysians must redeem themselves and show the world that they are serious about stopping corruption and misuse of power.

This has gone on for too long and it is time to be firm. We cannot just keep on explaining away major scandals.