Up for grabs

I AM writing in response to Daphne Lee’s criticism of a Facebook writers group’s plans to hold a writers’ festival throughout the country (“Why do we write?,” Localise, Sept 27).

Apparently, the columnist is peeved that a large group of local writers are encouraging ordinary Malaysians to meet them, autograph their books, and take a selfie or two for good measure.

I’ll be attending the event as I’m an author by virtue of my weekly column, Take Off With Capt Dr Thiru Jr, for The Star ( Sarawak) that ran for over two years before I decided to call it a day. My columns addressed a wide variety of issues close to the Malaysian heart – politics, economics, social empowerment, and even specific issues ranging from sports to aviation safety.

Before publishing my last article, I was able to compile 30 or so of them into a book that is currently sold at major bookstores. The whole writing experience was rewarding, although not without its fair share of trials and tribulations.

When I learnt of this writers group on Facebook, I was impressed that there are many more authors in Malaysia. It taught me that Malaysians are a capable lot.

I cringe in frustration when I read about how much the government is doing to promote readership amongst Malaysians. Then I find out that Malaysians are quite the opposite: Not only do we read but we write as well.

So when I read Lee’s criticism of the unsung heroes of the Malaysian literary world, I could only shake my head in disbelief. She asked “exactly what are we celebrating?” Her column then takes on a more arrogant tone: because she’s not heard of us, the event is therefore self- indulgent ( or to put it colloquially, “syok sendiri”).

She also lamented that Malaysian writers are more attracted to the so- called “fame” and “glamour”. Finally, she claimed that these events “celebrate mediocrity” while the talentless writers congratulate themselves.

While I laughed off most of her criticisms, I have to uphold the dignity of my colleagues in this business.

Firstly, it is naïve for Lee to contend that the writer’s life is all about fame and glamour. I, for one, can attest that there is no greater myth than this. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, try writing something and getting it published!

My 100- odd columns took lots of effort and sleepless nights, as they were written straight from the heart and motivated by a desire to convince my readers towards a common good.

I was never paid for any of my columns yet I found no greater satisfaction in my calling as a writer. It doesn’t matter if I’m famous or not. Even if just one person was converted by my writing, then it has served its purpose.

The writers’ event is to celebrate Malaysian authors, plain and simple. It is meant to celebrate the fact that dreams can turn into reality and to encourage budding authors not to give up on their goals.

The column by Lee smacks of little more than jealousy towards people who have attained some measure of success. I would personally invite her to attend the event and give it a chance.

I would like to end by encouraging all local writers, regardless of genre, to continue writing and, more importantly, keep on believing.

Capt Dr Thirunavukkarasu Jr Kuching

IT will be puppies galore this week at canine welfare organisation Malaysian Dogs Deserve Better’s adoption drive today at One City, USJ Subang Jaya, Selangor. The adoption drive from 11am to 6pm will be held in the open space across the road from the Fat Boy Burgers outlet and behind Master Chef Restaurant. More than 20 puppies will be up for adoption. Free samples of a new brand of pet food, Taiwan- made Pro- Choice ’ n’ Greens, will also be distributed at the event to get public feedback.

Hey, who says men can’t cry? We are only human. We will make mistakes and feel weak ( physically or mentally). Take some time to sit back, chill, and think of possible options.

2) Turn to your support system.

Less than a week ago, my family went through an emotional rollercoaster when we received a call that our dearest uncle ( my dad’s younger brother) had passed away due to an acute heart attack.

Without hesitation, my dad, being the oldest brother among his siblings, stepped forward to help his late brother’s family. While he handled the “adult matters”, the younger cousins gave moral support by contacting each other frequently to keep everyone on the same page.

Regardless of whether your support system is your family, spouse, partner or friend, it’s