Major events of this period
Singapore's separation
IT was indeed shocking to learn of the separation of Singapore from the rest of Malaysia. After all, our people are of the same stock: we belong to the same family.
Our differences should have been treated as petty and should have been patched up.
I had not for one moment entertained the idea that this island State would be out within so short a time though there had been misunderstandings between the two Governments. I had thought that the Tengku -- our beloved leader -- and Mr. Lee Kuan Yew could be able to sort things out to the satisfaction of us all. But misfortune has set upon us.
The rest of Malaysia can fall unless we are prepared to accept -- and accept quickly -- the facts of life... that we are members of the same family working side by side to ensure the success of Malaysia.
Our differences can and should be settled if we wish to see our nation grow from strength to strength otherwise we will be torn to pieces not by Soekarno and his army but ourselves.
MALAYSIAN, Singapore
I refer to your report of the televised Press interview given by Mr. Lee Kuan Yew.
The Prime Minister is there reported as saying: "Apologetically, he said he was far too angry to go on with the subject." In his entire interview as seen on TV Singapura Mr. Lee neither showed nor expressed any feelings of anger.
Tenseness, anguish, disappointment, yes. But anger, no. His self-control, his careful choice of words, his dignified handling of a most painful situation, must surely have won for him the sympathy and admiration of all who viewed the interview.
REV. V. MANNION, Singapore
NOW that Singapore stands alone may I call upon all the loyal citizens of Singapore to stand behind the Government in its efforts to build anew the island nation of Singapore?
S.K.E, Singapore
The great national tragedy that befell us last Monday has struck dismay into the hearts of all true and loyal Malaysians, including those in Singapore.
The events that led to this totally unnecessary separation are by now all well known as both parties have taken great pains to inform the Malaysian people and the world in general of the circumstances of the reluctant divorce.
Let the lessons be learnt and the warnings heeded. What has happened may be repaired in the course of time. But the danger is still there.
Bogeys will be raised again and again. Our beloved country can be crushed, not by force of arms but by internal strife if wise statesmanship and able and firm leadership do not prevail.
CITIZEN, Klang
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