Let us put things into perspective. It is always too easy to simplify the issue and pin the blame on someone else, in this case the PM and his policies. The fact of the matter is energy costs around the world will increase whether or not you are a net exporter of oil.

The problem that this country is facing is more fundamental and more complicated than just what is being discussed.

Malaysia's economic policies are not structured like a free market system. Subsidies - though helpful at certain times of our growth - will become harmful as the country evolves to become more 'developed'.

To me, all these changes, from economics to politics, are a reflection of the growing pains of a country that is becoming truly matured. The end goal is positive, it is the journey there hurts.

Put yourself into the shoes of the policy-makers and you will realise how difficult it is to govern this country's economic challenges.

I am not defending the government's recent policy announcements per se, but I think we must give some latitude to the PM and his advisers to make the requisite structural changes to the economy to turn the country into a developed economy.

It cannot happen overnight.

At the same time, the government must be more mindful of the growing maturity of the public. It is advisable that the government does not underestimate the maturity and intelligence of the masses and that policy changes be more intelligently presented, setting out the longer term goals and how to reach them.

You will have to repeat the message several times to gain the confidence of the public in your expertise in governance. Not unlike how a CEO would lay out the strategic plans for a company to its employees.

The public must made to feel the shared ownership and responsibility.

Looking at the positive side of things (and so we all must), this country is experiencing changes never before experienced in the last 30 years.

And this present government, with all its strength and weaknesses, is aiding this change. It can only get better.