Hooliganism is simply not our way!

The Longman Online Dictionary of Contemporary English (http://www.ldoceonline.com/dictionary/hooligan) defines "Hooligan" as "a noisy violent person who causes trouble by fighting etc". Typically, this is not a word that can be associated with Malaysians, as this is simply not our way. Unfortunately, this is just the sort of behavior to describe the antics of some party-goers during the recent Christmas Eve bash in the vicinity of Gurney Drive, a popular tourist spot in Penang, Malaysia.

As reported in The Star (http://thestar.com.my/services/printerfriendly.asp?file=/2009/12/27/nation/5372442.asp&sec=nation), RELA members who tried to break up some mischieve makers who were disturbing passing vehicles found themselves instead to be the target of an angry mob. Even a TV crewman on the scene was not spared the fury of the crowd.

More details on the blog of Lucia Lai, a local blogger : http://lucialai.org/2009/12/26/what-a-shame-rowdy-penangites-on-xmas-eve-again/

Apparently, its a case of deja vu, as this was not the first time that this kind of behavior has been exhibited. In 2007 the PDRM (Polis DiRaja Malaysia) were the unfortunate ones who bore the brunt of the violent riots, as detailed again by Lucia in her blog. (http://lucialai.org/2007/12/28/shameful-penangites/)

Now, there is no evidence to suggest that these rioters are all locals (Penangites). Since Gurney drive was a popular place for both local and foreign tourists. The ruckus could have been caused by anyone. So, don't hold anything against Penang or Penangites, who are usually quite friendly and are masters of food!

For those of us who are sober, do we realize that the RELA / Police are actually acting to protect both innocent bystanders as well as the "temporary-insane" hooligans? Imagine if this were an Arnold Schwarzenegger movie. When confronted with a mob of hooligans / zombies (they all act the same, except maybe zombies are slower and don't carry beer bottles/helmets), the hero would most likely run over them with his hulking SUV rather than sit inside and endure the crowd bashing. Of course over here, we all tend to drive smaller cars, but even a Perodua Kancil in the wrong hands would make mince meat of a street full of people. So, do remember, if you don't act dangerously, there is no reason to take drastic action to protect those around you, including yourself. Cause and Effect.

Now, these acts of violence are almost always the result of loss of reasoning, brought about by the consumption of alcoholic beverages. People tend to drink more when with friends than when alone. In no time, it's easy to over-consume beyond ones limit. Alcohol itself does not cause violent behavior. However, it sort of turns off our reasoning and suppresses the sensation of fear. That's why some people find it easier to pick up the mic in a Karaoke bar after a few drinks. Once our conscience goes on vacation, people let go off their inhibitions and let their internal feelings out. Now, not all people act violently when high. Some are depressed and just sit there wallowing in sorrow, some hang loose and actually enjoy themselves more. It's those people with pent up frustration and anger that now unleash their fury. In any case, do remember, if at all you must drink, do it in moderation (make sure everyone in your group shares this determination). And get ready to make a quick exit once you see some people starting to go over the limit.

If you ever find yourself in the middle of a riot (don't as me how), try to either remain seated until the heart of the action passes, or slowly get up and leave the scene. Resist the urge to run like hell. This advice was given to me sometime before (can't remember the source, sorry). I believe that the reasoning was that, in the heat of the moment, there is no telling between a panicked innocent bystander who was trying to flee the scene and a crazed, high, hooligan who was charging to attack. The riot control police on the scene may mistakenly assume the latter and "whack-first, check-later" (can we really blame it solely on them?).

Well, having said my thoughts on this matter, I wish to remind everyone to have a good time during Christmas Eve / New Year's Eve, but always keep an eye out for signs of trouble. These riots don't only happen in Penang at the year end, but could happen anywhere (Bukit Bintang, Dataran Pahlawan) and any time (after a Liverpool vs Manchester United match perhaps?). May all of you have a Happy New Year 2010, and be well and happy always!