Kuala Lampur, Aug. 9 -- This article began with a conversation with a friend. There are days when I understand why people say they want nothing to do with politics.

They are tired of the drama, the betrayals, the endless cycle of promises and disappointments. They want a peaceful life. They want to work, love, raise their children, read, travel, enjoy good times with friends, and not have to think about politicians.

The problem is that politics does not respect that wish.

You can decide not to follow politics. You can stop reading the news. You can refuse to argue about elections, parties or politicians.

You can tell yourself that life goes on regardless, and in many ways it does. But stepping away from politics does not mean politics...