GEORGE TOWN – A simple online poll initiated by a Gerakan leader seems to validate an awkward recent sentiment, as the majority of respondents say they cannot count on the government in times of need.
Gerakan national vice-president Datuk Baljit Singh said the reactions were an eye-opener and underscored the people’s negative sentiments.
“Almost 90% of the comments (by respondents) demonstrated that they are fed up with the government and the politicians. It is an eye-opener for me. People are just upset with us.”
A poll on his Facebook page on Friday garnered close to 400 respondents and about 120 comments.
Baljit was asking his audience who the people can count on to help in times of emergency.
Instead of placing their trust in the government, people expressed confidence in the spirit of #kitajagakita, or individuals and communities helping themselves, he told The Vibes.
Many of the comments said the people must fend for themselves and that non-governmental organisations are better at helping, while ministers are of no help.
Some even said foreign workers were better than the government’s rescue agencies, in reference to events that happened during the recent flood disaster.
Baljit said this is a strong message that the people are fed up with all political parties and their alleged failings in addressing disasters.
He added that it is now time for the authorities to revise how they respond to emergencies, such as the Covid-19 crisis, floods, and climate change.
There is also a need to ensure that there are adequate resources at hand to be deployed whenever a disaster strikes, especially during the monsoon season, he said.
“I think the people have had enough of politicians, whether or not they mean well. What the people want is action. Enough of preaching, we must now do our duty.” – The Vibes, January 9, 2022
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