The fact that Dr Mahathir Mohamad had to clarify that Umno will only accept Chinese members of Sabah's Akar party, and that the appointments of two Chinese assistants are not to sideline MCA and Gerakan, shows that he is under popular pressure from both Umno and MCA.

A good leader must do the right thing, not the popular one. The right thing to do at this moment is to turn Barisan Nasional into a single multiethnic party through the strength of Umno vis-a-vis others. All races need to mix or socialise with each other, and the only efficient way to bring about this, is to integrate MCA and Gerakan into Umno as soon as possible.

Of course, MCA is expected not to like it, or even resist it. But, if we accept that a single multiethnic BN is a good thing, we must not waver or hesitate. Just do it.

Umno has the numbers, resources and strength to do whatever that needs to be done. Only then, can we have the moral authority to talk about Vision School. If the adults, as represented by Umno, MCA and MIC continue to be monoethnic and racially segregated, how could we possibly convince the people to have their children integrated first ?

Also, Dr Mahathir does not have to be apologetic about appointing two Chinese assistants. All good leaders must be firm and uncompromising in the selection of aides which he needs. With specialist aides only answerable directly to one top leader, the leader would perform better and more efficiently without having to listen to too many confusing and contradictory opinions and feedback.

I fully support Dr Mahathir's appointment of two Chinese assistants directly accountable to him as I support institutions like the Economic Planning Unit. Just do the right thing, Doc, not the popular or populist one.