I agree many Chinese Malaysians move away for the reasons she cited -- jobs, family, health and a brighter future for their children. Worn down by exclusionary policies, they rightly feel excluded; so, off they go.

Me, I moved away to marry my American husband. After nine years abroad, we moved the family back to Kuala Lumpur last year. It was not an easy decision, but we came back for the usual reasons -- family and friends.

Through my website, www.outstation.my, I hear from people facing these life choices all the time.

My point is, Malaysia -- warts and all -- belongs to all of us. And if you aren't around, you can't help make things better.