I refer to Mohd Iqbal's letter and wish to analyse here the logic of what he wrote ([#1]'Ketuanan Melayu' is historical[/#], Feb 8).

Firstly, the Chinese thrive, as any race, including Malays, will do, if obstacles are put in their way over which they must triumph to survive.

Secondly, "three thousand years of history and a tendency to 'clan' like a horde of impoverished Genghis Khans" have nothing to do with the Chinese born and bred here who are divided by different dialects and even values between the Chinese-educated and those who are not.

Thirdly, the comparison with opportunities given to the Chinese in Canada and Australia is misplaced because in these countries, the laws institutionalise equality irrespective of race, and affirmative action is weighted in favour of the minorities and not the majority and the politically dominant.

Fourthly, what is the relevance of the "social contract" made four decades ago to the present (and future) generation(s) born and bred here? All races contribute to the country's progress so that she is what she is today and I question the relevance of his remark that the Chinese or other non-Malays should "chew on that for a moment and be thankful for the decision arrived at (then) not to boot the Chinese out of the country".

He asked "if the Malays financially and socially achieved the age of majority in this very young country?" and answered "Not yet, but they are getting there" without asking whether there are also citizens of other races, born and bred here, who have also not financially and socially achieved the age of majority and who will not get there without help.

Yet he is entitled to his opinion as I am to mine.