Change or no change? When to change? Crossover or no crossover? How many will cross over? These questions have now overtaken "will fuel prices go up or down?" as the issue that concerns Malaysians most.

Anwar said, "We have more than 31. Change is for sure, just waiting for the PM to discuss when to change."

Abduallh said, "You're dreaming! No one is crossing over to your side. I am still firmly in power. No change at all. Who wants to meet up with you?"

The two leaders have their own versions of the story, making Malaysians more and more confused. What's actually happening now?

Since Anwar first announced his 16 September plan to seize power, Malaysians have been either looking forward to it, or wrapped in panic. But whether there will be a change of federal government, we only hope that the dust can settle as soon as possible. Whoever that runs the government, please fix the economy and security problems so that we can lead a decent and peaceful life.

I don't know whether BN and PR still remember their election manifestos merely half a year ago?

BN vowed to establish a "peaceful, safe and prosperous" Malaysia, covering areas like economy, a more balanced development, improve public services, wipe out corruption and enhance the quality of management, etc. while mitigating the effects of skyrocketing prices of goods so that Malaysians can look forward to a better quality of life.

The opposition, meanwhile, offered to reduce fuel prices, improve security, narrow the gap between the rich and poor, battle corruption, etc. while emphasising social justice, democracy and righteousness. Of these, DAP pledged to change the destiny of the nation; PKR advocated shared power among all races; while PAS offered to establish a welfare state.

The elections are over more than half a year now. Malaysian voters have sought changes through the ballots, denying Barisan Nasional of two-thirds majority in the Lower House of the Parliament.

Therefore, whether Pakatan Rakyat could eventually form the central government, it should have fulfilled its election promises by now.

Similarly, although BN lost five states in the election, it has stressed that it is still commanding a simple majority in the Parliament. In other words, Malaysian voters have accepted BN's election manifesto of establishing a safer, more peaceful and prosperous country.

Having said that, none has so far fulfilled its promises to the voters.

On almost every single day after the elections, BN and PR have been busily engaging themselves in the tussle, whether there are any MPs crossing over, a change of central government, no-confidence vote against the PM, or whether any BN component party will quit the ruling coalition. They have not come up with any practical policies or measures that will allow Malaysians to lead a more decent life. Does that also mean that as long as these questions have yet to be answered, Malaysians will not have a peaceful life ahead of them?

Such uncertainty is definitely not what Malaysians are looking forward to. Nevertheless, whether or not we support a change in the central government, this remains our expectation towards the country's future.

However, if we are not assured of our security, be it in economy or personal safety, it won't be the best choice for Malaysians whether BN or PR is in power. (By FAN XIAOQI/Translated by DOMINIC LOH/Sin Chew Daily)