The unfortunate death of the 2 Malay SMRT trainee technicians and the radio interview of some of the cousins and relatives of one of them does bring to mind how the Malays treat unexpected and sudden death within the family or even the community. They are always calm, collected and show an inner strength. Friends, relatives and others quietly turn up at the house within minutes of been notified. And believe me their bush telegraph is second to none in terms of speed. The furniture is set aside to allow more people to be accommodated with many seated on the floor against the wall. There will always be someone to usher in and attend to those of other races.
When the authorities turn up where the deaths are due to unnatural causes, there is a genuine need to cooperate, and again done in calm and collected manner. Even if the death occurred at the workplace or during NS, there is no animosity or aggression displayed towards representatives of the organisation. Their first operating position I suspect is fate and the need to conduct the rights and rituals for the deceased. It is the level of cooperation in their moment of deep loss that is truly impressive.
When the authorities turn up where the deaths are due to unnatural causes, there is a genuine need to cooperate, and again done in calm and collected manner. Even if the death occurred at the workplace or during NS, there is no animosity or aggression displayed towards representatives of the organisation. Their first operating position I suspect is fate and the need to conduct the rights and rituals for the deceased. It is the level of cooperation in their moment of deep loss that is truly impressive.
