Surprise, surprise, the public universities admission exercise has yet again generated harrowing tales of how top scorers are denied places in local institutions due to their ethnic origins. Somehow, such tales are the inherent right of a certain ethnic minority, in case no one has noticed.

It was just over 40 years ago that Malaysia stood tall amongst the nations of the world, denouncing the rule of apartheid. In the subsequent 40 years however, we have somehow failed to live up to the high standards set by our founding fathers.

No one is against affirmative action, or questioning the special rights of the bumiputra. By all means, if the benefits under these guidelines are meant for the children of fishermen and farmers or even the city dwellers who cannot afford an education in Australia or England, then by all means, it is the moral duty of every Malaysian to uphold such policies.

What comes into question is how a generation that is born in Malaysia, bred in Malaysia and about as Malaysian as the politicians who so loudly proclaim their loyalty but then proceed to send their children abroad for education, could be subject to a system that has been perverted to an extent that many have simply given up hope?

A student who strives to do well in his studies because he has been brought up on a diet of 'Malaysia Boleh!' finally scores excellent results in his examinations. He steadies himself to enter into a profession that he knows he can excel in, and qualifies for. He is then told months later that his application is rejected as the quota is filled.

He then goes to Singapore or some other place that is willing to accept him and obtains his degree, often placing huge financial strain on his family. Upon graduation, he works in his country of education (as so often in the case of Singapore).

The issue here? Malaysia loses a potential high scorer who with proper educational nourishment could have been a contributor to the country.

The government can do all it tries then, but go try telling him that his loyalty lies with Malaysia, and that he should return to serve his beloved Motherland.

The ministry in question claims repeatedly that the quota of 55:45 is filled. Yes, but what is the quota in choice courses, or even general degrees like business administration? What outcome does the ministry forecast when a student with straight As is offered a course in physical education or translation studies? Can the Ministry come up with the ratios of students currently in medicine, accounting, economics, dentistry and business administration in the local institutions?

As if that is not enough, there have been even calls to introduce a similar ratio system in private colleges, the last hope for such 'rejected' students.

This letter will not evoke any response from the relevant officials. Such is their scant respect and regard for the people or the future of the country.

One can only hope that those who have been victims of this apartheid-like policy can find in their hearts to forgive those who have perpetrated this vile action against them.