Petrolhead populism

Sometimes, its the little things that count notwithstanding the weightage one puts to it.

And so, after perusing through the manifestos of most if not all the political parties, particularly the DAP and PKR, we get a feeling that its nothing more than petrolhead populism. At least the promise to cut toll charges and pump prices.

You know, we actually won't mind that. But its empty promises because in the same breath, they say deny the ruling coalition the two-thirds majority. Guess they are actually looking at incremental change.

We think otherwise.

We propose to increase pump prices for all fossil fuels except natural or compressed natural gas used in all modes of transport. Fact is, we would even give incentives for hybrid or electric-powered vehicles.

Current emission levels in Malaysia is already turning our pristine blue skies grey at certain times of the year, although some of it can be attributed to neighbouring nations. The fact remains, we need to cut down emission levels to enhance air quality and delay climate change.

And we would like to maintain toll charges at current levels. As it is, the lattice-work of highways criss-crossing the country has encouraged a growth in the number of cars on the road. We need to reduce that, to reduce emission levels and even road accidents.

Instead, we propose to use savings from the lack of subsidies to finance better public and goods transport using clean and green energy where possible. The other parties can talk about preserving the environment but we haven't seen any plans yet.

Planting flags, stringing buntings and pasting posters won't help. We need vision. We need action.

Those who want short-term gains, like cheap fuel and toll charges, are like the same politicians who want a short-cut to power for their own ends and not for the interest of the public and future generations.

Think about it. And vote the Siber Party of Malaysia (M) if you want more than just cheap fuel, cheap tolls and cheap talk.