In a democracy, every citizen is entitled to his or her opinion, conscience and belief. So is Suqiu, representing the expression and hopes of 2,095 organisations of Chinese Malaysians. Why should, and indeed, what right, has Umno Youth and the Federation of Peninsular Malay Students (GPMS) to suppress those opinions that differ from theirs?

As already been pointed out time and again, "suqiu" is not a demand, but a plea (qiu in Mandarin). It is a fair and legitimate expression of hope; why should it receive such vehement and violent threats and opposition?

And to the Umno Youth president Hishammuddin Hussein, I have this to say. Back in school, I remember reading in the sejarah (history) textbook on how Onn Jaafar resigned from Umno when his suggestion that the party be opened to non-Malays was vehemently rejected by other members of the party. My heart swelled with respect, admiration and awe for him. Has anyone truly grasped the significance of his decision? Here was a man destined to be the father and leader of this new nation, based on his prestige among all races at that time, particularly that of the Malays. But he relinquished all that, and stood by his belief.

Sir, if 50 years ago your grandfather, in his wisdom, could see that the future of our country lies in true integration of all Malaysians regardless of their race, will you not keep his legacy, and believe also that the future of our country should ensure equality for all Malaysians, in both law and dignity?