I support the call for Barisan Nasional in becoming a multiethnic entity, rather than continuing with the present arrangement of a coalition of both monoethnic and 'seemingly' multiethnic parties.

I sense that the time is ripe for such a development, for Malaysians are now more literate, and quite a number of young and old alike would support such a move by BN.

A natural consequent of developing BN into a single party would be that a more 'sensible' approach to politics will evolve, one that would hopefully reduce the type that currently appeals to only sectarian interests, which has always been a threat to the social fabric of our multiethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural society.

Maybe, the Alternative Front, even though it may claim to be a coalition of multiethnic parties, would have to follow the lead of BN by also striving to become a single multiethnic party and this development would augur well for the future generations.

I would like to reiterate my support that 'affirmative action' should continue, only that its implementation be closely monitored to minimise, if not prevent, attempts at 'sabotaging' by the implementors of official policies.

A review of the 'affirmative action' from time to time must also be done, so that those who are supposed to be aided do not become complacent, and in the process be 'crippled' by the very programmes and action meant to help them.

Ironic as it may seem, elements of meritocracy should be injected into such 'affirmative action', so that the ones who are lagging behind make a conscious effort to 'earn' such support.

Aids should not be handed on a silver platter! The authorities should examine the piece written by Dr M Bakri Musa, 'Competition - the right vaccine for bumi students' (May 21), which I feel contain many pertinent points and I congratulate him on his piece.