The Permatang Pauh by-election may very well be a defining moment in our nation's history.

Almost six months has passed since the 2008 General Elections and the ruling coalition has done absolutely nothing positive to regain our trust and confidence.

It’s business as usual for the ruling coalition while the rakyat's voice as manifested on March 8 has been totally ignored. Now, Permatang Pauh has sent another strong and clear signal to Putrajaya that the masses are not happy.

Permatang Pauh did not vote for Anwar per se, it voted for change. Anwar offers himself as the solution to our nation's present woes. He promises to be the captain of our ship which presently lies captain-less and dead in the water.

I, like many other Malaysians, was initially against the idea of MPs jumping ship to form a new government. I felt that the opposition coalition should prove itself in the five states it presently governs and then let the rakyat assess their performance in the next general elections.

However based on the ruling coalition's performance ( or rather lack of it!) over the last six months, I feel we may have no choice but to hope for change in government failing which we may all be ship-wrecked’ soon.

Based on present sentiments (as reflected in Permatang Pauh), I have no doubt in my mind that should there be a general election tomorrow, the opposition will emerge the victor.

This is so as to date, the ruling coalition has failed to get its house in order. It is obsessed by Anwar's threat to form the government by Sept 16 and seems to be prepared to go to all lengths to prevent him from doing so.

It however continues to neglect the rakyat and its needs. I now agree with Anwar when he says that Malaysia cannot wait another four years for a new government. By then damage to our country may be irreversible.

Anwar promises the much needed reforms to our country. Reforms that the present regime has no interest in. Being a victim of all that is wrong with our present system, I am sure Anwar will keep his word.

Therefore Malaysia needs Anwar in Putrajaya sooner than later. So voters of Permatang Pauh, we thank you for your courage and wisdom.

May we soon see a better Malaysia.