by Soo-Inn Tan | Nov 9, 2007 | 2007, Articles, Governance, World Issues
Some of my Christian friends in Malaysia are caught in a dilemma. The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (BERSIH), is calling for a peaceful rally to be held this Saturday, to press for reforms in the electoral system. The police have refused to give a permit for...
by Soo-Inn Tan | Sep 3, 2007 | 2007, Articles, Governance, Malaysia, World Issues
Today Malaysia commemorates its 50th year of independence from British colonial rule. I was talking to some friends recently and we noted that there seems to be little reason to rejoice. The government of the day still takes an ethnic approach to running the country....
by Soo-Inn Tan | Jul 1, 2005 | 2005, Articles, Governance, World Issues
How many roads must a man walk down Before you call him a man? Yes, ‘n’ how many seas must a white dove sail Before she sleeps in the sand? Yes, ‘n’ how many times must the cannon balls fly Before they’re forever banned? The answer, my...
by Soo-Inn Tan | Nov 8, 2004 | 2004, Articles, Governance, World Issues
As I am writing this piece, they are counting the last few ballots in the state of Ohio, U.S.A. By the time you read this, the world would have known who will be President of the United States for the next four years. You would either be relieved and rejoicing, or,...
by Soo-Inn Tan | Mar 22, 2004 | 2004, Articles, Governance, World Issues
It’s not difficult to be cynical about democracy. The concept is simple. The people are allowed to decide who should lead them. Hence elections are held on a regular basis. If the government of the day fails the people, they can be voted out and another...
by Soo-Inn Tan | Mar 19, 2003 | 2003, Articles, Governance, World Issues
I appreciate the many of you who have offered to buy me coffee to get my views on the Iraq situation. Since my middle aged bladder can only take so much caffeine at any one time, by the time I get to go to Starbucks with you, the war will probably be over. Therefore I...
