Shame On You, Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir

It is confirmed and proven that the Minister of Culture, Arts and Tourism, Datuk Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir did not do his homework when he came out with the idea of hosting the second national Kongsi Raya Open House in Johore Baru.

He was expecting 300,000 people from Malaysia and Singapore. New Straits Times later reported that the expectation was 350,000. Kadir, in his desperate effort to scout for attendance also threatened the Chinese community saying that it would be a shame if they cannot come out and support the event.

The final count was, only about 100,000 people tuned out. Blame it on the rain, or God?

Knowing very well that Johor was experiencing the rainny season where some areas were already flooded. If homework was done, a lot of things could have been avoided. If more careful preparation has been made, at least to choose a more suitable venue, turn out should be much better.

If Kadir has not been rude, arrogant and over confident, more people would have come out to support dispite the rain. The welcoming party given by the Chinese community to the Prime Minister, Pak Lah, was proof enough that the Chinese would brave the rain to be with the leader they respect.