This is really a terrible moment. Externally, U.S Lehman Brothers Investment Bank's bankrupt declaration might trigger a global financial tsunami. Internally, political instability has exacerbated the economic hardship, making the people anxious and fearful.

An action must be taken to stabilise the situation in this difficult time. This is to avoid the outflow of fund, to prevent a further decline in the stock market and the value of ringgit, as well as to restore the people's confidence. If we fail to curb the unrest as soon as possible, the consequences would be unpredictable. And for sure, it will harm the country and the people.

Therefore, BN and Pakatan Rakyat should put aside political differences and confrontation and together, stabilise the political situation. If they do not immediately seek a compromise and come out with a plan to resolve the problems, it will be too late once the situation turn worse.

Politicians can resolve the country's current crisis from three aspects: political compromise, economic restructuring and rebuilding confidence.

The political unrest is mainly derived from Pakatan Rakyat's power seizing plan. BN leaders should invite Pakatan Rakyat's leaders for a talk in order to seek for a political consensus. While Pakatan Rakyat should give up its power seizing plan. BN should sincerely stop its hostile actions, including to release those detained under ISA.

If both the coalitions end the current political chaos with their political wisdom and lead the country to first deal with economic issues, the people living in misery will certainly be grateful.

To resolve economic issues, the government should invite economists, entrepreneurs, bankers and chief executive officers for a brainstorm to find a way to lead the country walk out from the current global economic situation. As the former Financial Minister, certainly Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim can make recommendations for the country to tide over the difficulties.

At the same time, the country is also facing the crisis of confidence. BN must ensure any factor that is not conducive to restoring public confidence should be eliminated. Conservative thinking must be suppressed, the reform agenda must be immediately launched, open and democratic measures must as well be implemented.

If BN is not on the open and democratic direction, more people of principle may leave, allowing for the rise of conservative thinking. Wisdom is needed especially during hardships. We believe that as long as we persist in faith, the country will be able to tide over this difficult period. (By LIM SUE GOAN/ Translated by SOONG PHUI JEE/ Sin Chew Daily)