Lim Kit Siang probably has to add one more chapter in his book – “Time bombs in Malaysia” the Kampung Buah Pala debacle which is waiting to explode into a full-blown issue for Lim Guan Eng and the Pakatan Rakyat government. This ticking time bomb could be triggered on Pakatan Rakyat ‘ s zone.
I can ‘t believe I was wrong on taking a stand on Kampung Buah Pala issue initially. Not only did I have the feeling that these Indians in Kampung Buah Pala were greedy. To declare some expertise in judging them thinking that they have been influenced by MIC and Hindraf is indeed a misdemeanour on my part. I thought these villagers were just too much in even asking for any money as they are squatters …..anyway this is what was portrayed in my reading materials combined with feedback from my own exclusive -”think tank” comprising my colleques and customers who are doctors and pharmacists from Arau to Kulim.
This weekend was a mind twisting experience for me in Kampung Buah Pala. Terrible feelings of guilt struck me as I was talking to some of the villagers, their grouses reflected the intensity of their pain, frustration, days of sleepless nights and their uncertain future. It was totally a different scenario from what I had read and heard.
“We agree with the house offer, but where are we to stay for the next two years until the completion of the promised new house?” exclaimed one lady. Will she get an answer to her question ?
As I was walking towards one of the houses I noticed a tree with a paper hanging on it which read “ We will defend this tree, this tree will be here forever” showcasing the emotional intensity of the villagers to defend each and every inch of the village, leave alone their houses.