We propose that the Malaysian Government selects strictly on merits the nation’s first astronauts, to be sent to space by a Russian rocket in 2006

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We propose that the Malaysian Government selects strictly on merits the nation’s first astronauts, to be sent to space by a Russian rocket in 2006

Statement
by Dr Tan Seng Giaw

(Kuala Lumpur, Sunday): The Government should be using meritocracy seriously in selecting this country’s first astronauts. Doing this is consistent with the new era of further globalization.

Yesterday, Dr Mazlan, who is the National Space Agency’s Director-General, said that Malaysia was preparing to form a special committee to handle the astronaut project. He would be its secretary, the Defence Minister Dato’ Seri Najib being the chairman.

Our country intends to purchase Sukhoi SU-30 jet fighters, costing RM3.42 billion (US$900 million). One condition is for Russia to send a Malaysian to the International Space Station for eight days, including two days for the journey.

It seems that the Cost for Russia to send a human to space is between RM10 million to RM20 million. After the above-mentioned purchase, Malaysia has only to foot the expenditure for space research (whatever that means).

The National Space Agency should do practical research that the country can afford. Just as other sectors, it ought to concentrate on selecting people and projects purely on merits.

Dr Mahathir often admits that after over 30 years of quotas and special treatment, there are negative aspects. How do we stop people abusing powers and privileges? Last year, the Education Ministry announced that it started to base admission to public universities on meritocracy. It has done this partly. But, the equating of Matriculation with Higher School Certificate (STPM) has caused furore. So, selection of astronauts on merits makes sense, without aping the controversy generated by the Education Ministry.

On 31 August, 2003, Malaysians celebrate the 46^th anniversary of Merdeka (Independence). The Government encourages people to put up our national flag, Jalur Gemilang. As Malaysia is our country, we must show our flag.

Apparently, the Culture, Art and Tourism Minister has been caught in his own trap, implying that the Chinese, by not putting up Jalur Gemilang in big numbers, are not loyal to the country. He has yet to apologize. One of his duties is to ensure that all policies are fair to various races, the sun shining upon all alike. If all policies are based on merits and needs and the sea has fish for every person, then Malaysians of all races will be loyal to the country inwardly and outwardly. It appears that the minister is only interested in the external appearance of loyalty to the nation.

When it rains it rains on all alike. If Malaysians can see that this is truly so including the selection of astronauts, the minister would not have fried in his own grease over loyalty to the country.

(24/8/2003)

* Dr. Tan Seng Giaw, DAP National Vice Chairman & MP for Kepong