The recent expose of MAS' lavish spendings is indicative of the rot that Malaysia is facing. Its continuing losses is testament to poor managerial skills and smells of corruption. Despite commanding a RM$2.7 million annual salary, its senior manager Chris Andrews has failed to deliver. There is also little justification for such a stratospheric renumeration for a tiny nation like Malaysia. MAS has become a laughing stock and has put the country to shame.

The latest confirmation by the minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Dato Mustapa that the NEP will be continued till the 30% equity for bumiputeras is achieved only confirms the aim of this nation to slide further into obscurity. Holding on to a 30 year old plan that has failed miserably is foolish. A new strategy should be drawn by identifying the weaknesses of the previous system. Bull dozing a policy that has failed despite 30 years of practice is suicide. It is like building a castle on shifting sand. Even if the 30% equity is achieved, it will not withstand the eventual onslaught from the pressures of globalisation and stiff competition. Are we then to continue this protectionist policy for eternity?

The MAS saga is testament to the lack of quality in the management of MAS. Its promotional policies and executive appointments should be questioned. Are we putting the best people in the job or are we putting people with connections in these jobs? Ultimately, the taxpayers are to pay the price for this carelessness.

Perhaps it is the NEP that is to be blamed for this trend in mismanagement of government controlled corporations. Even hospitals are not spared from such lack of foresight in management and unscrutinised spendings.