I say man, am I leader.....

Question is WHO ORDERED THE KILLING?

2012-01-26T23:30:00.000-08:00

Case reopens doubts about Malaysian justice system

By Razak Baginda's own cautioned statement to the police, he grew tired of Altantuya and broke up with her after a year-long affair in which he gifted her thousands of dollars. However, she flew to Malaysia to demand as much as US$500,000, according a letter found after her death. The two bodyguards, Chief Inspector Azilah Hadri and Corporal Sirul Azhar Umar, were to be paid RM50,000 to RM00,000 to kill Altantuya, according to a confession by Sirul which was never produced in court.

Written by John Berthelsen, Asia Sentinel

The politically-charged appeal of two elite Malaysian police bodyguards who were sentenced to death two years and nine months ago for the 2006 murder-for-hire of Mongolian translator and party girl Altantuya Shaaribuu is due on Feb. 10 in Malaysia’s Court of Appeal.

The High Court trial, in which everything appeared to have been done ignore the question of who hired the two killers, stands in vivid contrast to the appeal filed by prosecutors on Jan. 19 in the case of Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim, in which everything appeared to have been done to bend the evidence to try to put the 64-year-old Anwar behind bars. As Judge Mohd Zabidin Mohd Diah pointed out in his not-guilty verdict, “the court cannot be 100 percent certain that the DNA evidence against Anwar was not contaminated.”
The two bodyguards, Chief Inspector Azilah Hadri and Corporal Sirul Azhar Umar, were to be paid RM50,000 to RM00,000 to kill Altantuya, according to a confession by Sirul which was never produced in court.

Although the three-judge court is expected to hear arguments, it is unsure if the verdict on the appeal by the two will be concluded on that date. Even if it is, according to criminal defense lawyer Manjeet Singh Dhillon, that is unlikely to be the end of the case. If the two are found guilty once more, they have the right of appeal to the Federal Court, Malaysia’s highest tribunal. That could take as long as another 2-1/2 years, Dhillon said in an interview.

Although the Malaysian court system has been working to shorten the length of time appeals take, delays remain. However, the length of time this particular case is taking is extraordinary, Dhillon said. Indeed, however, he said, the appeal in Anwar’s case could take a similar amount of time. As with the Sirul-Azilah case, Anwar’s appeal to the Federal Court could also take another two and a half years after the appellate verdict.

The murder case been linked to the fortunes of Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak. Azilah and Sirul served as bodyguards in an elite police unit supervised by Najib, then the country's deputy prime minister. It has continued to dog him as bloggers and journalists from France and other countries have continued to question his involvement. Also on trial with the two, but acquitted without having to put on a defense, was Altantuya's jilted lover and one of Najib's best friends, political analyst Abdul Razak Baginda.

From the start of the year-long trial, during which prosecutors and the judge were hurriedly switched without warning, to the end, when the verdict was delayed since February 2008 until after the United Malays National Organization convention that named Najib party leader and thus prime minister, the case has appeared more about suppressing evidence than determining the guilt or innocence of the accused.

Asked about the failure of investigative agencies to attempt to discover why no attempt had been made to ascertain who had hired the two to kill the woman, Dhillon responded: “Frankly, that is ridiculous. It clearly shows the intention of the investigative agency. If you are a hired killer, someone has hired you, and he is a far greater criminal, whoever it is. If I am the head of the investigative agency, I would want to know who the mastermind is. Everybody wants to sweep this under the carpet.”

The murder was one of the most gruesome in recent Malaysian memory. It is a tale worth repeating. By several accounts, the then-28 year-old woman, who was executed with two bullets to the head in a jungle clearing near the suburban city of Shah Alam and whose body was blown up with military explosives, was at the center of a massive scandal over the purchase by Malaysia of two French submarines and the lease of a third.

The sale of the submarines and other vessels by the French government-linked military contactor DCN to Malaysia, Pakistan, Taiwan. India and other countries have been investigated sporadically by prosecutors who have alleged it involves a string of murders and kickbacks paid to some of France’s top political figures.

Altantuya, then Razak Baginda's lover according to Razak Baginda’s testimony to police, reportedly was a translator in the purchase, which cost Malaysian taxpayers €1 billion (US$329.1 billion in current dollars). The purchase netted a company controlled by Razak Baginda €114 million in "commissions," according to testimony in Malaysia's parliament.
By Razak Baginda's own cautioned statement to the police, he grew tired of Altantuya and broke up with her after a year-long affair in which he gifted her thousands of dollars. However, she flew to Malaysia to demand as much as US$500,000, according a letter found after her death. Other reports alleged the payment was for her part in the purchase of the submarines.
As she stood in front of Razak Baginda's house, demanding that he come out, the two policemen, accompanied by a policewoman, swooped down on her, tossed her into the back of a car, and she was never seen alive again.
In a cautioned statement that was never introduced in court, Sirul testified that in her last moments, Altantuya begged for her life, saying she was pregnant. Sirul said he and Azilah had attached explosives to the woman's legs up to her abdomen and her head, raising questions why they had sought to destroy her abdomen rather, for instance, than her hands, which could identify the body. Presumably the explosives would have destroyed any DNA samples of whose baby was inside her, if any.

P. Balasubramaniam, a private detective hired by Razak Baginda to keep the woman away from him, swore in an intensively detailed statutory declaration that he was told by Razak Baginda that Altantuya had been the lover of Najib as well, that she liked anal sex, and that she had been passed on to the analyst because Najib intended to become prime minister and didn't want a sex scandal hanging over his head.

In the declaration, Balasubramaniam said he had seen text messages from Najib after Altantuya disappeared, telling him to "be cool" and that he would take care of the matter. After delivering his statutory declaration, Balasubramaniam was summoned to a Kuala Lumpur police station, where he was forced into a total recantation of the document. He and his entire family disappeared. There apparently was never an attempt made by the court trying the three men to find him and ask him to testify as to the accuracy of the statement.

Comments (12)..

written by plato, January 27, 2012 12:43:40

Razak`s,Bala`s and RPK affidavits can be used. ...

written by Ben Nordin, January 27, 2012 12:43:02

Do you really think that people believe that Altantuya is Razak Baginda's lover? Hahaha. Razak Baginda just took the fall for some flip flop. And for that he was rewarded handsomely. Who has the power to erase immigration records showing Altantuya came into Malaysia vis KLIA? Who has the power to order the bodyguards to kill? I doubt Razak Baginda has that kind of power. Why did Jibby text Razak Baginda and told him "Matter will be solved. Be cool." at the on set of the Murder trial?
Malaysians, don't be so naive. ...

written by fidlot, January 27, 2012 12:41:31

Whoever holds power in Ammno regime....is equavalent to a Gd of BoelehLand.

This Gd of BolehLand....can even turn the sun into a moon. What is there for a pesky opposition seeking to overthrow this fraternity of evil scourged?

Work hard, keep lot of money and migrate whenver opportunity arises

Leave this shit to them unluky ones thats support such racist regime when the oil runs dry. ...

written by Fart Fart Wah, January 27, 2012 11:59:47

Question is WHO ORDERED THE KILLING? ...

written by PREM, January 27, 2012 11:55:25

THE QUESTION IN EVERY TAXPAYERS MIND WAS ' ARE OUR MALAYSIAN JUDGES LACKING IN SIMPLE KNOWLEDGE OF THE LAW ' ? ? ? ? EVEN THE UNEDUCATED WOULD POINT OUT THAT THE 'HONOURABLE ' JUDGES HAVE MISSED A VERY SIMPLE Q ' WHO HIRED THE KILLERS ' ? ? ? WASTING OUR TAX MONEY ON THE ' WAYANG KULIT ' ...

written by Big Ass Mama, January 27, 2012 11:51:29

Question is who ordered the killing? ...

written by Dr Gum Singh Walia, January 27, 2012 11:46:33

Ini Dolar Akhbar mana mari. Awak Tanjung Rambutan juga ada lari. Ini Malaysia semua ada. Belakang Taruh punya orang ada. Itu Bom C4 punya orang pun ada. Itu Lembu punya susu duduk punya condo juga ada. Itu Islam punya orang lari bini punya orang pun ada. Itu mayat mati punya orang bawa lari itu kubut mari juga ada. Ini Malaysia semua punya boleh. Semua ada.

Itu Malaysia bikin ekonomi punya baik yang tada. Itu Ah War Gor kah, Ah Jib Gor kah, itu Ah Din kah itu semua tolak masuk sungei buloh banyak bagus. ...

written by malgal, January 27, 2012 11:39:33

the spectre does not want to go away.

what's sleep like with the sword of damocles ever dangling? ..

written by monee, January 27, 2012 10:52:39

Same repeated article'(s) nothing new. What happened to the suppose sensational news from FRENCH COURT ???? Are their mouth now stuff with EUROS !!!! ...

written by Jacque, January 27, 2012 10:39:01

Who hired those two murderers? The real killer(s) is on the loose while the henchmen will be hanged. Any benefit for working as henchmen for those that walk in the corridors of power? ...

written by Jibby the Head, your C4 Friendly $upreme 1AiyahDollar Fuhrer, January 27, 2012 10:28:25

Read lah my Oafs 1My Qur'4n $wearing pink pouting lip$

This kafir, apa nama tu, John Berthelsen, Asia Sentinel is obviously biased in his unfair reporting against me (who is proclaimed the Father of Moderation and Fairness, by none other than a bunch of pork eating kafir Cina Kuis, who, incidentally, are cousins of Mongolians, and who knows these things, but I digressed) and our country's superb legal system (the best that ringgits can buy). Now this kafir reporter tries to insinuate that "the High Court trial, in which everything appeared to have been done ignore the question of who hired the two killers, stands in vivid contrast to the appeal filed by prosecutors on Jan. 19 in the case of Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim" that somehow our Courts, the best that money can buy, is somehow unfair. As this infidel biased reporter rightly noted that "Judge Mohd Zabidin Mohd Diah pointed out in his not-guilty verdict, “the court cannot be 100 percent certain that the DNA evidence against Anwar was not contaminated.” He, tha kafir reporter, conveniently ignored the fact that the Judge Mohd Zabidin Mohd Diah did not in fact point out anything in the Razak Baginda's trial nor did Judge Mohd Zabidin Mohd Diah point out anything in the trial of the two elite scape goat police body guard who were sentenced to death. Doesn't this biased kafir reporter know that it is improper for anyone to interfere until Judge Mohd Zabidin Mohd Diah point out something? Until I hear from the learned judge pointing out something, these two who were fairly found guilty, will bravely die for me and country, if necessary. So what's so wrong about this system? Semua-nya OK!

You should not believe anyone with a cheap name like "Berthelsen". Why believe in "sen" when you have "ringits"? Dollar akbar! ...

written by Jibby the Head, your C4 Friendly $upreme 1AiyahDollar Fuhrer, January 27, 2012 10:18:14

Read lah my Oafs 1My Qur'4n $wearing pink pouting lip$

This kafir, apa nama tu, John Berthelsen, Asia Sentinel is obviously biased in his unfair reporting against me (who is proclaimed the Father of Moderation and Fairness, by none other than a bunch of pork eating kafir Cina Kuis, who, incidentally, are cousins of Mongolians, and who knows these things, but I digressed) and our country's superb legal system (the best that ringgits can buy). Now this kafir reporter tries to insinuate that "the High Court trial, in which everything appeared to have been done ignore the question of who hired the two killers, stands in vivid contrast to the appeal filed by prosecutors on Jan. 19 in the case of Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim" that somehow our Courts, the best that money can buy, is somehow unfair. As this infidel biased reporter rightly noted that "Judge Mohd Zabidin Mohd Diah pointed out in his not-guilty verdict, “the court cannot be 100 percent certain that the DNA evidence against Anwar was not contaminated.” He, tha kafir reporter, conveniently ignored the fact that the Judge Mohd Zabidin Mohd Diah did not in fact point out anything in the Razak Baginda's trial nor did Judge Mohd Zabidin Mohd Diah point out anything in the trial of the two elite scape goat police body guard who were sentenced to death. Doesn't this biased kafir reporter know that it is improper for anyone to interfere until Judge Mohd Zabidin Mohd Diah point out something? Until I hear from the learned judge pointing out something, these two who were fairly found guilty, will bravely die for me and country, if necessary. So what's so wrong about this system? Semua-nya OK!

Let’s compare Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil and Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz........It is like comparing a small puddle and an ocean!! AND, THE RAKYAT WILL NOT FORGIVE PEOPLE WHO ABUSED PUBLIC FUNDS TO BUY LUXURIOUS CONDOS!!

2012-01-15T07:25:00.000-08:00

PROBE CONTINUES: DPM, Noh tasked with charting corporation’s future direction

(New Straits Times) - THE assets of the National Feedlot Corporation (NFC), which is being investigated by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the police, have been temporarily frozen.

Datuk Seri Najib Razak confirmed this yesterday, when asked to comment on calls for the assets to be frozen. “It has been frozen for the time being,” he said. However, the prime minister did not elaborate on who had taken the action and what this entailed. Najib said he had also asked Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister Datuk Seri Noh Omar to look into NFC’s future direction. Muhyiddin and Noh would look for the best solution concerning NFC while investigations are being conducted by police and MACC.

On Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil’s decision to take three-week leave from her ministerial duties pending the outcome of the investigations, Najib said it was “an appropriate

decision”.

He said the decision would allow both agencies to investigate whether she was involved in the issue. "She discussed it with me and told me she was prepared to be investigated. What happens after this will depend on the outcome of the investigations," he said after declaring open the National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen Day here.

Shahrizat had on Thursday issued a statement that she was taking a break from her ministerial duties to facilitate MACC and police investigations into her possible involvement in the NFC case.

Her husband, Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Salleh Ismail, is executive chairman of NFC and their children are directors of the company.
The controversy surrounding NFC started after the Auditor-General's 2010 Report described the project as "messy" and having failed to meet government targets.

In December 2007, the government approved a soft loan of RM250 million, with an annual interest of two per cent for a 10-year period, for NFC to start a national feedlot centre in Gemas, Negri Sembilan, to help reduce beef imports.
The initial target was to produce 60,000 head of cattle a year.

MACC has so far confirmed that it was finalising its investigation papers on the case before making recommendations to the Attorney-General's Chambers.

Police are carrying out a separate probe on NFC for cheating and criminal breach of trust.

Later, in Kangar, Muhyiddin said the government would soon announce measures to handle the NFC issues. He said he had met with Noh and they would soon chart a solution before briefing Najib.

Speaking on a separate issue, Najib said Barisan Nasional (BN) was not rattled by the so-called roadshows being undertaken by opposition leaders.
He said such sessions were part of the democratic process and different parties had their own strategies to garner support.

On claims by deputy Pas president Mohamad Sabu that BN members were helping the opposition topple the ruling coalition, Najib said: "He can say all sorts of things. This is the same person who claimed he was knocked down by a police car (which was proven untrue), so it is not surprising."

On another matter, Najib said the government's strategy to ensure food security in the country was to help farmers increase productivity as there were no plans to expand agricultural areas here.

He said those involved in the sector needed to transform their mindsets and focus on increasing output besides finding ways to add value to their produce to increase their income.

This, said Najib, meant farmers should not just be producers, but also involve themselves in the supply chain processes.

Earlier, the prime minister and his wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, visited Taiping, where more than 4,000 people turned up at the Esplanade field to exercise with them at the 1Malaysia exercise event.

The couple were accompanied by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and his wife, Datin Seri Saripah Zulkifli, at the event before leaving for breakfast at Taiping market.

Additional reporting by Lee Keng Fatt, P. Chandra Sagaran, Sharanpal Singh Randhawa and S. Ista Kyra

“I could not do it while I was in the party, because party colleagues and ‘parasites’ do not like the issue of alcohol and apostasy in Selangor to be fought against. ....HANG ON, HANG ON, HANG ON, PLEASE......HEY DATUK DR HASAN ALI, WHO ACTUALLY LEGALISE ALCOHOL IN MALAYSIA?

2012-01-15T07:10:00.000-08:00

(The Malaysian Insider) - Former Selangor PAS commissioner Datuk Dr Hasan Ali has confirmed that he will not appeal his sacking by the party leadership, saying there was no reason for him to remain in the Islamist party.

“I cannot, my soul will not allow me to. I do not see the need to remain in the party,” he was quoted as saying by Sinar Harian today.

The PAS central working committee sacked Hasan, a former vice president and Selangor liaison chief, as a party member last Sunday for breaching party discipline.

The Gombak Setia assemblyman was axed for urging opposition supporters to avoid the January 9 rally in support of opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as his sodomy trial verdict was handed down.

Anwar was acquitted and discharged of the sodomy charge.

Hasan (picture) stated that he did not regret making the stand, and charged that PAS’ Islamic struggle had been betrayed by “parasites” within the party.

He said he could not defend Islam and Muslims in Selangor as long as he was still with PAS.

“I could not do it while I was in the party, because party colleagues and ‘parasites’ do not like the issue of alcohol and apostasy in Selangor to be fought against.

“I am willing to be dropped from the (state) exco and forfeit all my benefits. Even though I have become comfortable with being an Exco, I leave it to save myself, children, wife and the Muslims,” he added.

Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim said on Friday that the Sultan of Selangor has consented to removing Hasan from his position as state executive councillor in charge of religious affairs.

Hasan, who is Gombak Setia state assemblyman claimed PAS’ opposition towards his struggle was proven when he was allegedly criticised by the party leadership for supporting the Selangor Islamic department’s (Jais) raid of church recently.

“I am not alone in this, soon there will be a massive movement to fight for the faith of the Muslims in this country,” Hasan said.

Umno information machinery should go to the ground and explain to the people on policies implemented by the BN government......WHY DON’T YOU COME TO THE GROUND THEN? THE RAKYAT IS WAITING FOR YOU INDEED....AFTER ALL THE CAMPAIGN FUND HAS BEEN DISTRIBUTED!! DON’T ABUSE IT, PLEASE.......

2012-01-15T06:57:00.001-08:00

(Bernama) -- Umno Information chief Datuk Ahmad Maslan is confident of Barisan Nasional (BN) winning back Kelantan, Kedah, Selangor and Penang, which are currently under the opposition, in the coming general election.

This, he said, was because the people were now disheartened with PAS, DAP and Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) leaders for failing to keep their promises, including those made in their election manifesto.

"The people are now fed up with the antics of the opposition leaders for making promises, including in Kelantan which has been under Pas for more than 20 years, but have not fulfilled their promises, especially to implement the hudud law," he told reporters after a meeting with the Kelantan BN information machinery at the Kelantan Umno office here today.
Ahmad said his confidence was based on the current political scenario with many PKR supporters now supporting the BN.
He said the court decision in acquitting PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim from a sodomy charge last week had no effect on the people's support for BN or Umno.
"BN under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who only administers since three years ago, has done a lot for the people.
"This is different from Pas. Although the party has administered Kelantan for more than 20 years, it has not fulfilled its promises, including to implement the hudud law," he added.

As such, he said, the Umno information machinery should go to the ground and explain to the people on policies implemented by the BN government.

ALL MALAY THOUGHT LEADERS SHOULD JOIN DAP.........OR PAKATAN RAKYAT..!! PUTRAJAYA IS FOR THE RAKYAT...NOT UMNO..!! LET’S START THE LONG MARCH FROM TODAY....EVEN IF GE13 IS NOT IN MARCH 2012..!!

2012-01-02T08:33:00.000-08:00

DAP scores a coup with Umno veterans and bloggers, including former Pulau Manis Umno rep Mohd Ariff Sabri Aziz.

(Free Malaysia Today) - Former Pulau Manis Umno assemblyman Mohd Ariff Sabri Aziz and Negeri Umno veteran Aspan Alias (photo) have joined DAP.

Having Ariff on board is a major coup for DAP because he was Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak’s information chief in his Pekan Umno division up until 2004.

“If you want to know, yes, that is what we are doing (joining DAP).

“I am impressed by DAP. They are principled, I like their professionalism.

“I was with (Lim) Guan Eng at the bloggers conference last month. There is no fancy words, they are focussed on work … always thinking unlike our Umno people,” he told FMT recently.

Ariff’s admission puts to rest weeks of wildfire speculations in pro-Umno blogs.

He is also rumoured to be contesting under the DAP banner in the next general election.

Ariff is touted to be contesting in Raub where MCA’s Ng Yen Yen is incumbent. Ng is currently the tourism minister, and a MCA vice president.

Warning to Umno’s bloggers

Gunning pro-Umno bloggers who have been maligning them both personally and professionally, an incessant Ariff (photo) said: “Why the paranoia? If we are not good, failed Adun (assemblymen), bankrupt politicians, it will be cinch for any winnable Umno candidates to beat us.

“So, it’s no cause of concern or a sleep depriver.”

“But be warned, you want to play ball, we play ball too, so stop telling lies about us and we can promise not to tell the truth about you (Umno).”

Both Ariff and Aspan are not alone. There are increasing speculations of shifts within and out of Umno.

DAP has been targeting ‘thinking’ Malays post-2008 GE to increase its support within the community.

Onboard is Transparency International Malaysia founder Tunku Abdul Aziz Tunku Ibrahim who is now the party’s vice chairman and former Umno education minister Khir Johari’s son Zairil.

Zairil and party strategist Liew Chin Tong along with Youth chairman Anthony Loke have been tasked with wooing selected Malays.

It was reported that the party leaders have been meeting “Malay opinion-makers in small closed-door discussions dealing with issues concerning Islamic state, hudud and Bumiputera affirmative action”.

Comments (13)...

written by flyer168, January 02, 2012 23:37:59

Fully understand your frustrations and respect your decision…

Enough is Enough..

Power of the People vs People in Power...

The reverberations of the aam aadmi’s awakening are being felt all over the world – from the right bank of the Nile to the left cheek of Sharad Pawar.

We must accept finite disappointment, but must never lose infinite hope…

True peace is not merely the absence of tension, it is the presence of justice…

We know through painful experience that freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor, It must be demanded by the oppressed – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

What is the purpose of our call for ABU ? To reduce Ketuanan UMNO/BN’s majority!

This should be our focus and objective and not be lured into these Diversions by the Ketuanan UMNO/BN Leaders, Mini Napoleons, Cronies, Machais, etc

Let us all pass on the message of ABU to make it reverberate into the citizen’s and nation’s battlecry for Rule of Law, Justice, Freedom & Human Rights

Shalom & God Bless. ...

written by Singa, January 02, 2012 23:37:48

These 2 Malay gentlemen are true blue Malays and not Bugis or Turks or Indons. High time real Malays rule their own country ! ...

written by Hua Mulan , January 02, 2012 23:11:17

These 2 gentlemen, yes I repeat gentlemen, have been long enough and seen enough of BN in general and UMNO in particular, the ways and means used by the ruling coalition to stay in power and to continue sucking the toil and sweat of the Rakyat to enrich themselves with insatiable greed. They have a heart, and DAP will always welcome such gentlemen, I repeat gentlemen, into the fold to strenghten the party and in the process, increase the Malay membership to reflect the true Malaysian profile of DAP thereby rubbishing UMNO's accusation that it is anti-Malay once and for all; we know DAP never was, and never will be anti-Malay.

As a matter of fact, I was very certain that there are good hearted Allah-fearing Muslim UMNO MPs and ADUNS who in their heart of hearts, must have felt that the means used by present UMNO to remain in power and to cheat the innocent Rakyat, especially those in the rural area, must not be allowed to continue. I wanted to tell those who harbour such kind humane thoughts for the Rakyat to resign enbloc and stage a walk over to the Opposition during one Parliament sitting in a dramatic CHANGE OF GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE AND FOR THE PEOPLE. You would have saved the poor people the need to hold protest demonstrations and get arrested for being "danger to the security of the nation". Furthermore, we don't have to wait for Najib to call for the dissolution of the present Parliament. We now call the shots. Before I could mention such a move to anybody, Ariff Aziz and Aspan Alias must have read my mind, and jumped the gun.

It is the fervant hope of all Malaysians, irrespective of race, colour or creed, that more from UMNO (in fact, MCA, MIC, PPP, etc., and Sabah and Sarawak) will now bravely follow the conscience-driven examples of these 2 gentlemen, repeat gentlemen, from UMNO to DAP.

-Hua Mulan ...

written by cpchen, January 02, 2012 21:19:42

I have just resigned as a MCA member, will join one of you very soon. The time is ripe to wipe off those Racial based party. DAP should start a task force just to recruit more Malay into the party & Keadilan to drive more Chinese into their party. ...

written by Alice, January 02, 2012 20:42:08

WOW there are men with great integrity in UMNO too. Surprise surprise. There is hope for Malaysia. I thought Malays from UMNO are all corrupted and hopeless. Sorry guys and all the best! ...

written by Motherchell, January 02, 2012 18:46:15

While i welcome the both of you as peoples reps. I suggest you declare your assets to give that feeling of confidence in a land called Bolehland. Its gives a better picture of your humility and interest in serving the people.

I will not ask you this if you were still with UMNO. Since there needs to be a complete understanding of the underlying nature of all that had gone on unabated for 54 long years. I

To all of us UMNO is a four letter expletive! Let us all work for the betterment of society as its time in this border-less world.

All good wishes to your work!! ...

written by truthbespoken, January 02, 2012 18:26:41

Way to go, more thinking and progressive Malaysian Malays should wake up and join DAP! Business and professional approach over cronyism is the way towards a better Malaysia for all! Treason? What rubbish! UMNO is the actual culprit committing national treason by selling out the country to illegal immigrants and turning them into citizens in return for votes! Inept UMNO must go! ABU! ...

written by Raja Kim, January 02, 2012 18:26:23

Dato, You have the divine right to choose with whom you want join forces with.

I am happy to say, veteran Aspan Alias and your choice are with people who will bring out the best from both of you. ..

written by vhari, January 02, 2012 18:13:39

I hope they will able to influence many more malays and make DAP a multiracial party. .

written by Sribayu, January 02, 2012 16:49:01

I'll follow suit joinning Teresa Kok under the Puchong parliamentary constituency.

Hidup DAP.... Hidup ABU ...

written by educationist, January 02, 2012 16:44:13

Yes, welcome on board the ship of change!!

Let's hope you 2 gentlemen will give added impetus to the momentum of change!! ...

written by Awang Kuku, January 02, 2012 16:37:08

This a piece of great news, at least for the year 2012. May they serve the rakyat with vigour and sincerity. ...

written by malchindian, January 02, 2012 16:35:34

Congratulations and welcome on board Gentlemen!

Now if you please Dato', deliver a knockout punch to that MCA *itch Yen2!

WHY SHOULD I LISTEN TO THIS BEER-DRINKING MALAY CALLED RPK WHO PROUDLY CELEBRATED CHRISTMAS? HIS POLITICAL LEADERSHIP THOUGHTS MAY BE GREAT BUT HIS SPIRITUAL FUNDAMENTALS ARE VERY MUCH SUSPICIOUS..............IS HE AN OPPORTUNIST OR FACADE ATHEIST?? OR COMMUNIST??

2012-01-01T22:21:00.000-08:00

(The Malaysian Insider) - Many voters have become frustrated with Pakatan Rakyat’s (PR) performance at the helm in four key states and will throw their support behind Barisan Nasional (BN) in the next general elections, Raja Petra Kamarudin said.

In an interview published in Mingguan Malaysia today, the self-exiled blogger said the PKR-DAP-PAS pact was still stuck with the mindset of taking over Putrajaya by “default” as they were confident in being the only alternative to the ruling BN, and that they were using the same anti-Umno tactics to win over voters.

“I am telling you, in the next election they [voters] will support the government. They say, in the next election they will not support the opposition because they are disappointed, dissatisfied, and not confident with the opposition.

“Why the opposition is so confident of forming a federal government? On the basis of ABU (asalkan bukan Umno), of rejecting Umno?” he was quoted saying in an interview published today by the Umno-owned newspaper.

Raja Petra (picture) pointed out that the same strategy was used back in 1999 by the short-lived opposition pact, Barisan Alternatif (BA) against former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed but failed when he retired and passed over the baton to Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi- resulting in BN’s massive electoral win in the 2004 elections.

“If you use the same strategy, what happens when people no longer hate Umno? You cannot start a relationship with people based on hate, it will not last,” he added.

He said infighting between different PR factions were evident in Penang, Selangor and Perak, and that will be why voters will “return to BN and forget Pakatan.”

Raja Petra claimed several Chinese businessmen in Selangor had complained to him that they still had to fork out “under-the-table” money in order to conduct businesses in the state, and that corruption was still rampant there.

“I tell them I do not know what to say. They say, come elections, they will not vote for Pakatan.”.

Comments (18)...

written by BAYANGKARA, January 02, 2012 11:52:05

So, the voters are not disappointed and dissatisfied but confident with the UMNO/BN government? What bull! Opposition states not doing well? Have we forgotten the Auditor-General's reports?

The country just cannot afford the continued corruption, cronyism and abuse of power of UMNO/BN.

All said and done, it is still ABU! ..

written by Malaysiaputra, January 02, 2012 11:40:38

Many fence sitter will vote the opposition not so much because they support them but its because of Umno's excessess when they hold the overwheming mandate which started during the time of MM . The rakyat's money was wantonly spent at the whims and fancies of the leaders which ultimately link to their own personal benefit or that of their cronies.

A stronger opposition is a better check then internal selfcheck. Just like comparing external exam to internal exam. ...

written by litingrui, January 02, 2012 11:37:32

Even from my dying bed I will vote PR. It is not a matter of if, it is a matter of when UMNO will fall. Long and uninterrupted Chinese history of 5 thousand years had shown us that any Emperor that had not captured the hearts of its people would fall. You know that UMNO is a monster why feed the monster that bites the feeding hand. Any righteous being knows that UMNO is devil. Just look at the latest student arrest where the leader is beaten so badly. ..

written by astroace, January 02, 2012 10:20:10

It will be a very sad day when those who are frustrated with the PR government decide to vote for bn. They are the ones who use their emotions and not their brains to decide. They are the ones who will cause more sufferings to our country and the future generations.

I knew of a few friends who voted bn because of the economy and the stock market back in the early 90's. To this I can say, you are the cause of our sufferings now. Are you happy with what you and your children are getting now?

PR government is less than 4 years in operation and these shitheads feel frustrated because things are not going their way. Look at the bigger picture, who is behind the civil service? It is bn or the federal government and they are the ones who sabotage PR's effort to efficiency.

Please think carefully before you make another grave mistake. We are suppose to learn from our mistakes, not repeat them... ..

written by AzizKadir2u, January 02, 2012 09:22:02

Rakyat wake up. kita rakyat susah, we will not be so easy to change the federal govermen, they the BN Upmno will do everything to win, they will cheat big time, and the election is not fair in the first place, the gerrymendaring alone will not work, every PR won 59% of votes they still can not form the govermen, Putrajaya seat only 6000 votes, other seat like bukit bintang, Meru, tanjung all with more than 120,000 votes , so rakyat we must pakat, rakyat pakat, vote overwhelmingly for PR then only we got hope, we must , jom ubah, ABU, we must as we have no choice, kita rakyat susah, susu tepung lah ni sudah RM100 satu tin. semua barang naik harga, lagi kita balik kampung , kita bayar toll, bumiputra atau tidak, kita bayar toll dan stuck dalam traffic jam, kita bayar AP itu jadi kereta mahal, Bumiputra pun, kita Toyota Camry RM!59,000 di malaysia, di UK dan USA, sana US$21,800 atau RM63,000 saje. di malaysia, Rakyat bayar bayar susah, BN Upmno minister dan cronies saje yang kayakaya. rakyat jelata Jom Ubah, ABU, ABU, biar kita ubah. vote and work overwhealmingly to change, vote for change. Yes PR is not perfect, we will work with them for 2 terms, we shall see the change, else we vote for change again. Rakyat boleh. we can see the change in Penang, slowly, they are trying to base on merit, base on follow Singapore goverment, then only we can catch up with the world and global competitive world out there. Under Upmno BN we are totally lost in the world competition, we can not compete, they created a culture that need clutches, and that is weaken us Bumiputra, they build up a culture of malaysia need subsidy, especially we Bumiputra, and they know it is not working, this policy can only help us to certain extent, but now if they subplant the seed that say, Bumiputra is weak, we malay need help, that is excuse to get the vote, fundamentally we have 50 years of results, and we are not better, we are very far behind the 4 dragons, that once we are very close behind them, now we are so far behind, we are not competitive. vote for change, we must. ...

written by AzizKadir2u, January 02, 2012 09:10:21

YM RPK, I respect your personal view. Kita hormati YM RPK, tetapi, ABU movement is there. We knew the PR, is new and they are not perfect, they are not as evil, not as corrupt compared to the BN Upmno, etc. There are still of Old guards or staffs in the local councils, they are from the old administration of Upmno and BN, the Tun Dr M and those corrupt Upmno BN culture were there for past 30 years, they will not get rid off in a short time, yes PR is not perfect, we are frustrated they will take time to get rid of total corruption. The facts remain, we Malaysia were very close to the 4 dragons, Singapore, Korea, Taiwan, HongKong, now, we are very far compared to them, especailly our neightbour, we are now comparable to Myanmar, Indonesian, Philipine, and if we continue, we will definitely like Zimbabwe, Myanmar, the cost of teh tarik will be RM100 a cup the incications are there, the inflation is terrible. our living standard is eroding as corruption is taking away our rakyat wealth. As such, we have no choice, but teach the BN Upmno by uprooting them, we must, have to. We will give the PR the chance to rule for 2 terms. we will take them out if they do not perform. We rakyat must be brave to change, vote for change, since it is so corrupt, since the Upmno BN is so arrogant. look at the Upmno AGM they are just anti PR, the way they BN Upmno manage after the 308, they are still in denial, they are not in real change, they blame the PR, they do anything to sabotage the PR. The federal is the power base, see the way they flush the budget rakyat money to the good use ? that is rakyat money, PR, they are using the non corruption money, they save the money and give it back to rakyat, whereas BN they using deficit from rakyat money. More corruption still in Upmno BN federal, like the recent NFC cowgate , the defence contract no body knew but it take lots of our budget and rakyat money to feed the ministers and cronies. Also, the rakyat is very difficult to survive with the Toll, paying toll everywhere we go, balik kampung pay toll, LDP, Cheras, KL, PJ everywhere we pay toll yet stuck in the traffic jam, festive season, we stuck in the toll gate to pay, pay, pay, Our susu tepung, milk powder is RM100 each for our baby, and it is very difficult to feed the BN and Upmno created culture. Only PR now, we hope they will hire RPK as minister in PM department or AG or MACC, so that we can clean the government, it will take time to clean them up. it is fact PR is not perfect and they will take time to clean up the old guard and legacy of cronies corrupt of Tun Dr M, KJ, Paklah, Tun Dr Link Long Sick, Tun Tan Sri Dr Semi Velu, Tun Dr Lin King Yik, Tun Dato Mokzani, Dato Mukrik M, Dato Dr K Toyo, Dato Zakaria with palace, Tengku Adnan, all big house, big car etc, they all no need to work for many generations, but like AP of car that make our car so expensive, we rakyat pay, pay pay, susah, about time ABU to change , then we will observe, we need rakyat to move foraward like singapore, HK, free of corruption. ABU, we must change, jom ubah. ...

written by lynn, January 02, 2012 03:04:41

Extreme corruption & wasteful spending involving hundreds of billions ruined this country, to the point of no return. Someone I know benefited from one wasteful project (billions) - from a run-down shitty proton wira, in a short 2 years, quantum-leaped to luxury cars like BMWs, rolex watches, fine dining, expensive handbags, expensive jewellery, etc. Personally I analysed - a lot of govt projects are terrible wasteful spending, but certain persons had personal vested interests & get a lot of kickbacks. No projects, no kickbacks. In a nutshell, most projects benefit only a small circle of people in a HUGE way. The rest of us suck eggs.

Over Xmas hols, friends of mine went over down to S'pore for their 3-4 days-holiday - all came back with the same remark (they do not know one another) - they commented to me, and I quote here verbatim " Malaysia is like SHIT, compared to Singapore. Singapore is so nice, so well-managed, so clean, so efficient, Singaporeans are more civilsed.... etc.

So back to Sir RPK's comment: people who are frustrated may go back to vote umno/BN... by all means. I see this country is damaged permanently under umno's rule & whoever takes over cannot do an excellent job of turning things around to the way we would prefer. The trouble with some of you people is, your expectations of PR is exceptionally high, very unreasonable - but there is no such pressure on BN the way some of you pressured PR. Frankly, I don't give a flying fcuk abt where this country is headed - it can go to hell & remain there for the next 1000 years.

Will I continue to vote PR? And I know of many many people, Malays, Chinese, Indians, expressing their anger & frustration at BN every day, every hour - people who intend to vote for PR come next GE13. The number is growing by the day! ...

written by choong, January 02, 2012 01:32:29

The only saving grace is RPK giving them a 1 year+ headstart to fix their problems in their states. And I think it makes perfect sense for them to review their performance and act accordingly. I hope the federal election be held separately from the states.

This will be a major bellweather to remind them who is the real boss and they should remember not to take for granted who gave them power to govern in the first place. ..

written by uxzee, January 02, 2012 00:53:22

There is no harm taking RPK's concern seriously and let PR and supporters work harder to address these concerns. We are not going to be demotivated and we are not going to vote for BN.

When RPK talks about infighting in PR parties, is he aware of infighting in UMNO ?

Is he aware that the MCA crumbling process has started?

Is he aware that Gerakan is in self destruction mode ?

is he aware that Najib has postponed his decision on the GE for the umpteenth time because he has no confidence of winning. ...

written by DPG, January 02, 2012 00:05:35

Sorry, I will stick with PR. Nothing will make me vote for UMNO. No even over my dead body. I can't understand why, after all these decades, and open abuse of power and corruption, people still want to vote for UMNO!!!!! ABU! ...

written by seaneugarchen, January 01, 2012 23:56:55

I bet Perak will go back to Pakatan..........................for RM1 Riggit, RPK, I challenge you. ..

written by educationist, January 01, 2012 20:53:09

Of course, frustrated voters who backed the PR to create 308 will back the UMNOputras this time round , if in turn they are frustrated with the PR.

Yes, that is as it should be!!

The PR must not think they have a blank cheque from the rakyat to do as they please[ or not do anything for the rakyat like the UMNOputras of old] and expect to be voted in come GE13!!

We who are hoping for change, change to a more fair, democratic and civil society will like to think they should be more voters frustrated with the UMNOputras rather than the converse!!

If it's a level playing field, which it is not at the moment, it's fine if the UMNOputras get back their 2/3 majority in Parliament to again desecrate the Constitution of our founding fathers!! ...

written by temenggong, January 01, 2012 20:27:42

PKR, DAP and Pas thought they could say and do as they like, and that we had no choice in the matter. Well, we'll fcuke PR harder than we fcuked BN. ...

written by Merdeka, January 01, 2012 19:41:49

Uncle Peter, sorry BN lebih teruk daripada PK! My vote still go to them, not BN! ..

written by vhari, January 01, 2012 18:25:19

Advice.Stop internal bickering.PR must come with a good manifesto.Come out with a good strategi. ...

written by truthbespoken, January 01, 2012 18:10:58

Whatever the intention, to the reader, this seems more like a self-redeeming piece of work towards UMNO's than a wake up call for the opposition to organise themselves to face the upcoming general elections. It's unfortunate. Mestizo got it right when he implied that voters are no longer blind to what's happening, are more discerning and will vote for those who they think are better candidates. But there is no doubt preference will still be given to the opposition cause. Arrogant, corrupt and racist UMNO needs to be nudged out of the government or balanced-up poliltically after moving unchallenged and in the wrong direction for decades. Who was the one who started this call for ABU anyway? That was a good poliltical call for the opposition forces! Many voters, I am sure, will still be stucked with this political battle cry into the next GE notwithstanding some hiccups appearing in some of the opposition-held states! Yes, ABU! ABU! ABU!, it is! ..

written by Liberian, January 01, 2012 17:25:27

Last GE we voted for the Opposition because we wanted to teach BN ! Their leaders after 54 years became corrupted from head to toe, arrogant , racist and with all the decornian laws such as ISA. Now we want PKR to learn that anytime if they fail the Rakyat, the same fate will fall on them! That's why Najib started with 1Malaysia but Muhuyudin and gang such as Perkasa , Utusan and Ketuanan Melayu screwed up, his 1Malaysia policy! ...

written by Mestizo, January 01, 2012 16:52:16

RPK, you were wrong. We do not hate UMNO. We are against those corrupted and instill hates among Malaysians by dividing us through religions and races.

This has gone from bad to worse. No we will not vote for BN. NEVER in the current state. Unless there is a major reform within BN especially UMNO. But we do not see how this will happen without BN loosing the Federal and state governments. Therefore, if Pakatan field a candidate who is racist, corrupted or inefficient, we will opt for independent candidate. If there is no independent candidate and if BN candidate is "clean", we may vote for BN candidate. Otherwise our votes will go to Pakatan. So Pakatan, watch out. You have more to loose if you do not get your act together.

2012 - The End Could Be A Start.......

2012-01-01T20:58:00.000-08:00

Monday January 2, 2012

The end could be a start

Sambal On The Side

By Brenda Benedict

The writer has compiled a list of things that she’d like to see end.

HOW many of you watched the movie 2012 and came out shaking your heads in disbelief at its unconvincing finale?

No one? Just me?

You mean you actually bought the plot that a couple of the world’s biggest polluters – including a Kyoto Protocol non-signatory – would build arks to save some chosen 400,000 people? Yeah, right.

If anything, this apocalyptic adventure cast the much-discussed Dec 21, 2012 Mayan prophecy in a bad light.

Let’s face it. Mankind doesn’t need to wait the next 12 months to see what its wanton disregard for nature could unleash. We are no longer just observers of climate change; many of us are experiencing it. Well, maybe with the exception of those who had attended the Durban Conference on Climate Change last year who agreed to “adopt a universal legal agreement on climate change as soon as possible, and no later than 2015”.

I mean, shouldn’t we be cutting carbon emissions like, now? But I digress.

I was inspired to write this instalment after Googling the aforementioned Mayan prophecy. Of the many interpretations available online, from magnetic pole reversals to Earth’s imminent collision with a planet named Nibiru, the one that resonated most with me was the least destructive – and what some claim was actually portended by the Mayans.

To quote a Carlos Barrios from the Eagle Clan of the Mam Maya of Guatemala: “The world will not end. It will be transformed. Everything will change. Change is accelerating now, and it will continue to accelerate. If the people of the earth can get to this 2012 date in good shape, without having destroyed too much of the Earth, we will rise to a new, higher level. But to get there we must transform enormously powerful forces that seek to block the way. Humanity will continue, but in a different way. Material structures will change. From this we will have the opportunity to be more human.”

Whether you see a kernel of truth to his words or dismiss them as hogwash, I think Barrios was spot-on about the “accelerating change” bit. The dramatic events of 2011 are testament to that, from the Arab Spring to the global Occupy Movement. Ordinary people came together to foster extraordinary change.

But as he correctly pointed out, the “powerful forces” that block the way to betterment should be transformed. I’d add that some things should simply end. So here’s my brief list of people or practices we could really do without this year – and ever after.

Pseudo-nationalists: Thankfully in 2011, the scales fell off the eyes of communities in parts of the world and they saw some of their leaders for who they actually were; shysters living off the fat of the land, yet purporting to have done it all for the love of the nation. I say let’s stop placing power in the hands of those who crave it merely to enrich themselves and their hangers on, while disregarding the actual concerns of their countrymen or the environment.

Brazen lying: What is worse than a lying leader is one who assumes that people actually buy his incredible yarns. While some populations remain incomprehensibly blinded by those blessed with the gift of rhetoric, it is comforting that others refuse to accept things at face value. Thanks to dedicated and independent media, fibs and cover-ups continue to be unearthed to the benefit of the common man.

Money politics: One need not say much. Yes, even pre-election campaign contributions can be considered bribes. Accepting it means you’re beholden to your backers. That could also mean being forced to close an eye, when your cronies royally mess up to the detriment of others.

Self-appointed spokespersons of God: Enough with “holy people” who tell others how to live or how to call God or who claim that He’s fine with the destruction of places of worship or the killing and maiming of innocents. Unfortunately kindergarten politics comes into play here too – this constant, “They started it first!” As the renowned pacifist Gandhi once said: “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.” Perhaps instead of proselytising, we should all start praying for the inner strength to forgive and move on.

This list could go on. Perhaps by changing our skewered values first, we can effectively deal with all the other pressing issues facing us. By taking these baby steps we might finally end the world as we’ve known it.

And hence, truly start anew.

Brenda Benedict is a Malaysian living in Frankfurt. She’s going to end her procrastination and start on her book.

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© 1995-2012 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd (Co No 10894-D)

What You Can Expect in 2012…….. Anything that is "Rakyat DiDahulukan"??!!!

2012-01-01T08:16:00.000-08:00

Sunday January 1, 2012

What you can expect in 2012

By YUEN MEIKENG

1. RM300 fine for those who don't buckle up in the back

- Passengers who fail to buckle up in the back from Jan 1 will be slapped with a RM300 fine

- Owners of vehicles without third rear seat belts will also be issued traffic summonses.

2. Better personal data protection

- The Personal Data Protection Act 2010 is expected to be enforced, making it a crime to sell a customer's personal data or use it for commercial gain for a different purpose other than what it was collected for, without the person's consent.

3. General election?

- Speculation is rife that polls will be called within the year, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak hinting that the elections are “just around the corner.”

- The Election Commission said indelible ink will be used in the next polls.

4. Let the games begin: 2012 London Olympics

- The Olympics are scheduled to be held in London from July 27 to Aug 12. It will feature 26 sports and a total of 39 disciplines.

5. Euro 2012 will kick off

- The much anticipated football championship will see 16 teams battle it out in the final tournament, to be hosted by Poland and Ukraine between June 8 and July 1.

6. Anti-competitive practices to be curbed

- The Competition Act 2010, expected to be enforced on Jan 1, will prevent industry players from ganging up and fixing prices.

- This will promote a competitive market in the national economy and safeguard consumer interests.

7. Pay rise for civil servants

- Effective Jan 1, a new civil service remuneration scheme will give Government employees a pay rise of 7% to 13%, depending on their performance, experience, talent and other factors.

- The optional scheme will also include an “exit policy”, whereby those who do not improve will be asked to buck up or leave.

8. Repeal of Internal Security Act (ISA) to begin

- The process of repealing the ISA is expected to begin in March after two replacement laws are drafted.

9. RM500 aid for the people

- The one-off RM500 assistance under the Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia scheme will be distributed in January.

- The aid, which aims to help 5.2 million households, is targeted at households with a monthly income of RM3,000 and below.

10. Return of the RM20 note

- The ringgit will be sporting a new look, and the RM20 note is making a comeback after last being issued in 1982.

- The new fourth series bank notes, except for the RM50 note, will be in circulation from the second half of 2012.

11. New guidelines on setting up childcare centres and kindergartens

- The guidelines, to be introduced in March, was drafted due to the increasing number of unregistered nurseries in housing areas.

12. Anwar: Guilty or not?

- On Jan 9, the High Court will deliver its verdict on whether Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is guilty of sodomising his former aide Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan.

- If convicted, Anwar faces up to 20 years' jail and whipping.

13. Prince William and Kate Middleton to visit Malaysia

- Britain's Prince William and his wife, Catherine, are expected to visit the country as part of the royal family's world tour in 2012.

- The tour is to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II's 60th year on the throne.

14. Race Relations Bill to be tabled

- In a bid to promote interaction among the races and foster mutual respect among Malaysians, the Government is expected to table the Bill in the March parliament session.

- The Bill will be used to combat racial extremism and is one of two replacement laws for the Internal Security Act.

15. Automatic transmission driving licence to be introduced

- The automatic transmission driving licence will be implemented nationwide in May after the driving curriculum is revised.

- Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Abdul Rahim Bakri said the new driving curriculum will enable beginners to learn to drive and take a test in an automatic transmission car.

16. Higher EPF contribution from employers

- Beginning January, the employers' contribution rate to the Employees Provident Fund for workers earning less than RM5,000 a month will increase from 12% to 13%.

- The move will benefit about 5.3 million working Malaysians.

17. Faster travel for KTM users

- Over 90,000 commuters in Kuala Lumpur, Klang, Seremban and Rawang will have experience faster rail service when KTM Bhd introduces new trains with bigger capacities in March.

18. 50% discount on LRT and Monorail services for senior citizens

- Senior citizens who apply for concession cards can enjoy a 50% discount on Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Monorail services from Jan 1.

- The discount is one of the efforts under the Government Transformation Programme's Cost of Living National Key Results Area to address the soaring living expenses.

________________________________________

© 1995-2012 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd (Co No 10894-D)

Two inevitable events in 2012 will dictate life in Malaysia for some time. A general election and a court verdict.........

2012-01-01T08:07:00.001-08:00

All eyes will turn to Borneo. It is a mighty task to expect a lion’s share of the parliamentary seats there, but Pakatan might broach the 20-seat mark, though it might end up being 15. That would reduce BN’s majority from Borneo (31 seats in Sarawak, 25 in Sabah) from 54 in 2008 to a manageable 26.

Praba Ganesan, The Malaysian Insider

An important time is arriving in Malaysia, and it does not matter if you are for it or not; that’s not material anymore. The growing fear is that the nation is about to enter this phase without a seat belt.

History students in the distant future will love 2011. When in doubt in a class history quiz, 2011 is, as they say in basketball, a high percentage shot (or guess in that situation). The world has plenty of discussion points from this year, with the death of Kim Jung-il tipping the year to epic proportion.

However for Malaysians, despite its share of watershed moments this year, 2012 will be the one that is monumental.

Two inevitable events in 2012 will dictate life in Malaysia for some time.

A general election and a court verdict.

He will go to jail

With his declaration from the defendant’s dock of his innocence and that Sodomy II is an elaborate political attack, Anwar Ibrahim has announced his disbelief in the country’s justice system under Barisan Nasional.

Legal minds are divided on the strategy, but still it did more than suggest that the leader of the opposition is readying himself for what seems like a predictable verdict. Few of those legal minds, outside the employ of the Malaysian government, disagree with Anwar.

On January 9 when the verdict comes out, there will be a reaction. Not rage, but a quiet shrug of the shoulder by millions of Malaysians. This disgust may translate to votes in the coming general election.

The column is mindful that there will be many other developments between that January week and the general election, but none will capture the collective imagination of Malaysians as much as this. The spectre of a grandfather going to jail six months after Prime Minister Najib Razak promising to reform the country’s arcane and oppressive laws removes any semblance of reform from the present administration.

The administration’s fear of a free Anwar in an election year may be its undoing.

General election

This column made the prognosis last year that there will be no general election this year. It has been vindicated on that score.

Six months ago it would be outright optimism bordering on blind faith to expect Pakatan Rakyat to exceed its Election 2008 results.

Today, there is talk in saner political corners of a possible election upset.

Najib has a large party, but most are in for what Umno can give them and are led by very few charismatic leaders. It is a party of money, not a party of ideas.

It can only rely on the following: a good economy, the buzz of 1 Malaysia, mainstream media and its election machinery.

The economy is strong, and the planned handouts leading to the election will affect votes. Still, decades of poor wealth distribution are starting to bite all over, the emerging scandals are only confirming allegations of an elitist system run to please one class, not any race, religion or state.

Mainstream media has been less dismissive of Pakatan Rakyat, even if they’d rather have dead air than say salutary things about the coalition. Some of the commentaries have given way to doubt.

The buzz of 1 Malaysia is the random factor. No poll can gauge it. Only a fair election will. It is conceivable that this administration is leaking support.

The BN machine is a money machine. It is less incisive in a general election than in a by-election. It is about pump-priming activities based on money. The question remains, how many Malaysians are keen on appearing to openly support the BN in the coming election, even if the money is good?

There is an air of change in the country, and an Anwar conviction will electrify the country more and convince them that if they let this moment slip, then a reversal will occur.

The electoral maths then…

The dwindled support for BN’s Chinese parties will start to tell. The Indian votes are divided at best, not in Najib’s bag necessarily. It is curious to note that Najib, not the MIC, holds sway with the community.

It is the young vote which will determine the result. Anwar does not poll that well with women, but that does not discount Pakatan’s overall appeal to women.

Penang is destined to stay with Pakatan. The parliamentary seats will be status quo.

Kedah will copy Penang, and Perlis is on a knife edge.

Pundits will not be surprised if the northwest turns into a Pakatan surge.

Kelantan is a safe seat, and the vagaries of Terengganu Umno politics does leave more questions than answers. Umno may keep the state, but only a two-seat majority in the parliamentary count.

Pahang will be Peninsular Malaysia’s battleground. There were urban wins for Pakatan, but it is the reach to Felda areas that will be telling. Umno to keep Pahang, but to lose more ground.

Perak and Selangor will go Pakatan, the first is a bigger call but a call has to be made.

With the expectation of a slim Pakatan win in Negri Sembilan, that leaves Malacca and Johor as solid Umno states.

All eyes will turn to Borneo. It is a mighty ask to expect a lion’s share of the parliamentary seats there, but Pakatan might broach the 20-seat mark, though it might end up being 15. That would reduce BN’s majority from Borneo (31 seats in Sarawak, 25 in Sabah) from 54 in 2008 to a manageable 26.

A national electoral win is possible, even if quite challenging, if the above inroad is achieved in Borneo.

Unlike Pakatan’s leadership conviction that the right candidates will win Putrajaya, this column is ready to call that it will be the national mobilisation of hundreds of thousands of Malaysians wanting a new Malaysia which will secure the change.

Comments (7)...

written by JEFFLIM118, December 31, 2011 10:05:02

The more desperate and evil acts from the ruling parties, the more shits are going to hit back on them.

Umno has to fight like gentleman to win back respect from the people. If they continue to play evil acts and dirty treats, they will be in hell and goes down in history as the most disgrace party in our nation.

Like TDM says, you should know when to step down when the time arrives.

There is no better time than now for the Umno led BN's Government to step aside. ...

written by Democrats, December 29, 2011 16:19:10

Crystal Ball prediction,

After the 2012 election, capital of malaysia will be move to some rural town in Sabah or Sarawak, or Pekan. they will lose the majority in West Malaysia by a bigger margin. Their safe deposit in East Malaysia will be chipped away, and they will be grasping onto their dear life by their fingernails......

Jibby will lose his presidency in UMNO, Moodin will come to power, Hisham will start challenging Moodin on behalf od his cousin, choas will erupt in UMNO, crackdown of citizen will happen as a backlash, FDI will drop, more Malaysia will migrate elsewhere...... ...

written by JJFoo, December 29, 2011 14:26:58 The core problem of Borneo especially Sabah was there is too much instant-citizens (not so long ago illegal immigrants) as valid voters, who have no choice but to vote for UMNO just to keep their "illegally" acquired citizenship valid.

"Project IC" or " Project Mahathir" was a huge success in Sabah after the fall of PBS to cement UMNO's position in Sabah. Anwar Ibrahim was the DPM then, he should be able to shed some light on this matter. ..

written by Sribayu, December 29, 2011 11:51:46 Year 2012 is the year..... The Collapse of the tyrant world.

Ben Ali, Hosni Mubarak, Gadaffi, Kim Jong-il already gone.....

Najib & Mahataik (UMNO) ,Taik Mahmud, Bashar al-Assad (Syria) will follow suit..... ABU - Aku Benci UMNO ...

written by vhari, December 29, 2011 11:09:14

Change will happen because the seeds of momentum of change already imparted in the minds of voters during the 2008 Tsunami. ...

written by NottyMaus, December 29, 2011 10:44:19

Forget the rhetorics ! As long as Sarawak-BN is not brought down, Umno will not go.

EC has done it's work for dUmno well; the native dayaks support Sarawak-BN, which supply dUmno MPs. ...

written by Pegasus, December 29, 2011 10:33:56

It better for them (ameno porn) to lose than to win big, they are already corrupted to core, stage five terminal ill canser...

Many stand in agreement therefore with Reverend Eu, that in the context of the implementation of Article 153 — yes, we do feel bullied. This is not a minority opinion, for many agree with Reverend Eu’s forthright observation. This includes constitutional expert Prof Abdul Aziz Bari, who opined that Reverend Eu has not uttered anything seditious. Couple that with the support shown by MCA’s Young Professional Bureau Chairman Datuk Chua Tee Yong........... As Aziz Bari reportedly told them, “grow up”!!!!!!

2012-01-01T08:01:00.000-08:00

So the latest act by Ibrahim Ali and his band of Perkasa men is to lodge a police report against Reverend Dr Eu Hong Seng

(The Malaysian Insider) - So, the latest act by Ibrahim Ali and his band of Perkasa men is to lodge a police report against Reverend Dr Eu Hong Seng for raising concerns revolving Article 153 of the Federal Constitution. The way these Perkasa boys reacted makes one wonder, if the mentioning of Article 153 by any non-Malay is like committing a deadly sin.

Then again, could we have expected anything less from the Member of Parliament for Pasir Mas? On that account, and true to his nature, he didn’t disappoint — neither us nor his taskmasters.

Our prime minister has only recently stated his intent to transform Malaysia to be the best democracy in the world; and yet — despite 54 years after Merdeka - we are instead left to rue individuals such as Ibrahim Ali, who take pleasure in being paragons of fear mongering, when pertinent issues surrounding Article 153 are highlighted. If national unity vis a vis nation-building is one of our goals, and the construction of Bangsa Malaysia is part of Vision 2020, then why should we cower from confronting stumbling blocks that stand in our way?

I attended the CFM Christmas hi-tea gathering, and I heard Reverend Eu’s speech, and amongst the things he mentioned in his speech was that, “in order to move forward as a nation, we must be willing to address impediments to our progress”. Surely, that is a wise call for mature and temperate heads to come together and discuss our way forward.

Reverend Eu further explained that the interpretation and more serious debates concerning Article 153 should be attended to by our parliamentarians. He also made it clear that ordinary Malaysians have no problem with the rights of the Malays and the Sultans as stipulated in our Constitution.

Where he did call a spade, a spade, was in pointing out what many people unfortunately experience, at ‘ground level’, and that is in the context of the implementation of Article 153, where unfairness of treatment rears its ugly head. It was on this otherwise valid remark that Ibrahim Ali and Perkasa pounced upon.

I would like to ask Ibrahim, at which point did Reverend Eu question Article 153, as the former purports that he did? Where was the “irresponsible provocation”? Should one deem it as irresponsible provocation, when another rightfully highlights weaknesses that permeate the system?

In fact, wouldn’t silence in the course of inequity, constitute a graver act of irresponsibility? It is within this context that Reverend Eu spoke of the precarious predicament of ‘shifting rights’ — a burdensome shadow under which many Malaysians have lived by and endured, hoping that their space wouldn’t erode any further. Sadly, more often than not, that has not been the case.

I stand in agreement therefore with Reverend Eu, that in the context of the implementation of Article 153 — yes, we do feel bullied. This is not a minority opinion, for many agree with Reverend Eu’s forthright observation. This includes constitutional expert Prof Abdul Aziz Bari, who opined that Reverend Eu has not uttered anything seditious. Couple that with the support shown by MCA’s Young Professional Bureau Chairman Datuk Chua Tee Yong, as reported by The Star on 31.12.2011, and it appears that Ibrahim and Perkasa are the ones who are isolated in their warped and immature outlook.

As Aziz Bari reportedly told them, “grow up”.

Yes, Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak is too afraid of holding the 13th general election. He is afraid that BN will not win, and in reality he has no confidence of winning...........

2012-01-01T07:52:00.000-08:00

It certainly has the edge but the big question is why is Najib running scared of calling for the polls.

Overall it can be said that it looks likely that BN will win the 13th general election due to three main reasons: Use of racist, fear-mongering tactics to woo the Malay vote; control of mainstream media to bad-mouth the opposition plus no alternative media in rural areas; and lack of impartiality (to put it in a refined manner) by the Election Commission.

Selena Tay, Free Malaysia Today

Yes, Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak is too afraid of holding the 13th general election. He is afraid that BN will not win, and in reality he has no confidence of winning.

Otherwise, why would he not immediately call for the polls to be held the moment after he had presented the Budget on Oct 7, 2011?

After all, it is blindingly obvious that the civil service, the national institutions, the rural folk and those in the interiors of Sabah and Sarawak are supporting him. With this so-called overwhelming support, it is indeed amazing that he still lacks the courage to call for the general election.

In addition to that, he has also thrown in the RM500 aid as bait. However, the RM500 is no big deal as it is only a one-off. Even if he were to give this sum every five years, it only amounts to RM100 a year. And that is equivalent to RM8.45 a month – peanuts and pittance! Is Najib trying to make monkeys out of the rakyat?

Be that as it may, here is a brief guide highlighting the unique features on the scenario in all the states in Malaysia:

Perlis: If you think the opposition Pakatan Rakyat (PR) is in disarray, think again. In Perlis there are four warlords jostling for power: Azmi Khalid – he of the Public Accounts Committee fame; Radzi Sheikh Ahmad – well known and with much clout; Isa Sabu – present Menteri Besar (MB) and; Shahidan Kassim – previous MB.

The smallest state but giving the biggest problems to Umno. PAS has two state seats here and hope to make further inroads and DAP has also set up a branch in Perlis after being absent for more than three decades.

Penang: The Indian-Muslim NGOs try to annoy Chief Minister (CM) Lim Guan Eng but the Malays have never had it better. The support for Lim from the Malays is blanked out by the mainstream media and this could work out to Pakatan’s disadvantage because the Malays in other states will think that the Penang Malays are being marginalised by the DAP-led state government.

Kedah: PAS MB Ustaz Azizan Abu Bakar seems slow and sleepy but that is the style required in Kedah. Things are moving along fine although the mainstream media tries to paint a picture of no-progress. For example, a road in Kubang Rotan was tarred and repaired by the PAS state government but the mainstream media said it was done by the BN federal government.

The PAS government was also accused of not helping the rakyat during the flash floods in 2010 although they had disbursed RM2 million to assist the flood victims.

Kelantan: PAS MB Tok Guru Nik Aziz Nik Mat has helmed Kelantan since 1990 and this time the Malay daily which is Umno’s mouthpiece tries to drown him with the water issue by publishing front-page headlines proclaiming that the water in Kelantan is dirty and smelly.

In fact the water is clean and crystal clear and the dirty, smelly water proclaimed in the said daily is the water dug from the ground by some of the locals and this type of water is referred to by the Kelantanese as ‘boring water’. How dull can BN get! The PAS state government has not kept quiet and has issued newsletters to try to counter the BN media.

Terengganu: This state is ever-elusive for PAS although they have won it in 1959 and 2004. There are two warlords in the power struggle of Terengganu: Former MB Idris Jusoh versus current MB Ahmad Said.

The stadium-collapse and the bridge with no river are the main issues here leading the opposition to question who gets a percentage cut from the construction works. In regards to the bridge which is part of the stretch of the Jabor Highway, the cost of the said bridge has ballooned from RM174 million to RM210 million. The construction cost of Jabor Highway itself has increased from RM3.7 billion to RM5 billion.

Pahang: The home state of Najib. The hottest issue here is no doubt the one in regards to Lynas Corporation and the rare earth plant in Gebeng located in the constituency of PKR MP Fuziah Salleh. She is currently heading a people’s movement which involves the rakyat with the intention of booting out this plant.

Battle of all battles

Perak: The state that made headlines in 2009 due to BN’s illegal power-grab. Since then, the Silver State has lost its shine due to Perak MB, Umno’s Zambry Abdul Kadir and his lacklustre line-up of Exco members. Ho-hum, yawn!

But the bright spark here is the PAS Supporters Congress – the non Muslim section of PAS which has one of the most active branches in Malaysia in Perak. The co-ordination among the three Pakatan component parties is also the best in Perak.

Selangor: This is in clear and present danger of going back to BN’s grasp due to extremely aggressive campaigning by Umno using racial issues and scare-mongering tactics to win the Malay vote. Although Umno uses the same racial and scare-mongering tactics in all the states, it is the most prevalent in Selangor.

Negeri Sembilan: One might think that nothing much happens here but lest we forget, Gemas in Negeri Sembilan is the location of the National Feedlot Corporation (NFC) cattle ranch – ground zero of the Cattle-Condo scandal. Enough said.

Malacca: Welcome to the Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Melaka in Batu Berendam which has only five flights a week. At other times, it is a good place to hone one’s skills in kite-flying.

Malacca is also home to the largest go-cart circuit in Southeast Asia but rest assured it is not so much a go-cart circuit as a ghost-cart circuit. Costing more than RM12 million to construct, there is no one and no activity there!

Comments (5)...

written by cheekhiaw, December 31, 2011 13:34:34

Thieves' Dilemma

With every government in the world printing money to 'save' the world (but in reality to steal money holders' wealth by stealth) the last few years, super inflation is coming. The signs are already reflected by the price of real stuffs like gold, silver, oil and protests and strikes by people all round the world discovering that their salaries and savings do not have the same purchasing power as before.

The local tuans of thievery are caught between their greed and that coming gale. To buy time, they give handouts to and raise salaries of those that support them, peddle sub-par products in 1Curi Shops (if they are so good K-Mart, Carrefour etc would have long gone out of business and 1Malaysian Thieves would rule the world's retail industry), and subsidise basic commodiities like oil in an attempt to bluff ignorant suckers into thinking that inflation is low.

The longer they remain as tuan the more they get to steal. But the longer it goes the more people would feel the sting of their thievery and the less they can hide that bluff. If thieves can uplift entire populations by sprinkling some of what they steal around town, thievesonomics would have long tuaned economic history. ...

written by ibabonma, December 31, 2011 13:17:40

If BN has the edge but the big question is why is Najib running scared of calling for the polls? The answer is simple: The oppositions actually have the edge, just enough for a simple majority but the longer Najis keep us in waiting, the better it is for opposition. ..

written by hellosunshine, December 31, 2011 10:20:22 GE13 is the watershed in the nation's destiny and path to a developed nation or a 3rd world nation status. Making or breaking the nation now lies in the hands of the Malays and the Bumis in Sabah/Sarawak. The Chinese and Indian Malaysians are all set to say no to corruption, cronyism, power, racial and religious abuses by the lanuns. Are the majority of our Malay and Bumi brethren with us or continue to let these lanuns plunder away our children's future? What have the umnoputras done for you and your family after 54 years in power? They were the ones who could have used the nation's vast and rich resources to develop the nation's infrastructure for all to benefit. Instead, they used crony and proxy companies to set up toll concessions everywhere and at every turn, IPPs, APs, loot the GLCs, get obscenely huge 'commissions' for defence spending, purchase items at hugely inflated prices, build white elephant projects just to siphon off the money, illegally transfer out money from the country in the hundreds of billions etc etc. ABU!!! ...

written by JJFoo, December 31, 2011 10:14:45

Will UMNO/BN win the 13th GE? MOST UNLIKELY but with rampage cheating such as gerrymandering, instant-citizenship-voters, phantom voters and rigged postal votes, UMNO/BN will SURELY win because the playing field was by far too lopsided.

It's like, the oppositions were forced to run an all the way up hill marathon race with obstacle bars thrown in while UMNO/BN run a half-marathon was an all the way down hill route.

Opposition need to work on leveling the playing field, however small can be only added advantage. Make the voters aware that they have been duped by UMNO/BN machinery and mentally prepare the voters to come out and vote while they still can otherwise an uprising may be the only solution to uproot the present corrupt and tyrannic government. ..

written by vhari, December 31, 2011 09:31:47 If Anwar is convicted and jailed immediately or not

UMNO will lose more seats

If acquitted ,Umno will loose least seats

Like in 1994 election.

It certainly has the edge but the big question is why is Najib running scared of calling for the polls.

Overall it can be said that it looks likely that BN will win the 13th general election due to three main reasons: Use of racist, fear-mongering tactics to woo the Malay vote; control of mainstream media to bad-mouth the opposition plus no alternative media in rural areas; and lack of impartiality (to put it in a refined manner) by the Election Commission.

Selena Tay, Free Malaysia Today

Yes, Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak is too afraid of holding the 13th general election. He is afraid that BN will not win, and in reality he has no confidence of winning.

Otherwise, why would he not immediately call for the polls to be held the moment after he had presented the Budget on Oct 7, 2011?

After all, it is blindingly obvious that the civil service, the national institutions, the rural folk and those in the interiors of Sabah and Sarawak are supporting him. With this so-called overwhelming support, it is indeed amazing that he still lacks the courage to call for the general election.

In addition to that, he has also thrown in the RM500 aid as bait. However, the RM500 is no big deal as it is only a one-off. Even if he were to give this sum every five years, it only amounts to RM100 a year. And that is equivalent to RM8.45 a month – peanuts and pittance! Is Najib trying to make monkeys out of the rakyat?

Be that as it may, here is a brief guide highlighting the unique features on the scenario in all the states in Malaysia:

Perlis: If you think the opposition Pakatan Rakyat (PR) is in disarray, think again. In Perlis there are four warlords jostling for power: Azmi Khalid – he of the Public Accounts Committee fame; Radzi Sheikh Ahmad – well known and with much clout; Isa Sabu – present Menteri Besar (MB) and; Shahidan Kassim – previous MB.

The smallest state but giving the biggest problems to Umno. PAS has two state seats here and hope to make further inroads and DAP has also set up a branch in Perlis after being absent for more than three decades.

Penang: The Indian-Muslim NGOs try to annoy Chief Minister (CM) Lim Guan Eng but the Malays have never had it better. The support for Lim from the Malays is blanked out by the mainstream media and this could work out to Pakatan’s disadvantage because the Malays in other states will think that the Penang Malays are being marginalised by the DAP-led state government.

Kedah: PAS MB Ustaz Azizan Abu Bakar seems slow and sleepy but that is the style required in Kedah. Things are moving along fine although the mainstream media tries to paint a picture of no-progress. For example, a road in Kubang Rotan was tarred and repaired by the PAS state government but the mainstream media said it was done by the BN federal government.

The PAS government was also accused of not helping the rakyat during the flash floods in 2010 although they had disbursed RM2 million to assist the flood victims.

Kelantan: PAS MB Tok Guru Nik Aziz Nik Mat has helmed Kelantan since 1990 and this time the Malay daily which is Umno’s mouthpiece tries to drown him with the water issue by publishing front-page headlines proclaiming that the water in Kelantan is dirty and smelly.

In fact the water is clean and crystal clear and the dirty, smelly water proclaimed in the said daily is the water dug from the ground by some of the locals and this type of water is referred to by the Kelantanese as ‘boring water’. How dull can BN get! The PAS state government has not kept quiet and has issued newsletters to try to counter the BN media.

Terengganu: This state is ever-elusive for PAS although they have won it in 1959 and 2004. There are two warlords in the power struggle of Terengganu: Former MB Idris Jusoh versus current MB Ahmad Said.

The stadium-collapse and the bridge with no river are the main issues here leading the opposition to question who gets a percentage cut from the construction works. In regards to the bridge which is part of the stretch of the Jabor Highway, the cost of the said bridge has ballooned from RM174 million to RM210 million. The construction cost of Jabor Highway itself has increased from RM3.7 billion to RM5 billion.

Pahang: The home state of Najib. The hottest issue here is no doubt the one in regards to Lynas Corporation and the rare earth plant in Gebeng located in the constituency of PKR MP Fuziah Salleh. She is currently heading a people’s movement which involves the rakyat with the intention of booting out this plant.

Battle of all battles

Perak: The state that made headlines in 2009 due to BN’s illegal power-grab. Since then, the Silver State has lost its shine due to Perak MB, Umno’s Zambry Abdul Kadir and his lacklustre line-up of Exco members. Ho-hum, yawn!

But the bright spark here is the PAS Supporters Congress – the non Muslim section of PAS which has one of the most active branches in Malaysia in Perak. The co-ordination among the three Pakatan component parties is also the best in Perak.

Selangor: This is in clear and present danger of going back to BN’s grasp due to extremely aggressive campaigning by Umno using racial issues and scare-mongering tactics to win the Malay vote. Although Umno uses the same racial and scare-mongering tactics in all the states, it is the most prevalent in Selangor.

Negeri Sembilan: One might think that nothing much happens here but lest we forget, Gemas in Negeri Sembilan is the location of the National Feedlot Corporation (NFC) cattle ranch – ground zero of the Cattle-Condo scandal. Enough said.

Malacca: Welcome to the Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Melaka in Batu Berendam which has only five flights a week. At other times, it is a good place to hone one’s skills in kite-flying.

Malacca is also home to the largest go-cart circuit in Southeast Asia but rest assured it is not so much a go-cart circuit as a ghost-cart circuit. Costing more than RM12 million to construct, there is no one and no activity there!

written by cheekhiaw, December 31, 2011 13:34:34

Thieves' Dilemma

With every government in the world printing money to 'save' the world (but in reality to steal money holders' wealth by stealth) the last few years, super inflation is coming. The signs are already reflected by the price of real stuffs like gold, silver, oil and protests and strikes by people all round the world discovering that their salaries and savings do not have the same purchasing power as before.

The local tuans of thievery are caught between their greed and that coming gale. To buy time, they give handouts to and raise salaries of those that support them, peddle sub-par products in 1Curi Shops (if they are so good K-Mart, Carrefour etc would have long gone out of business and 1Malaysian Thieves would rule the world's retail industry), and subsidise basic commodiities like oil in an attempt to bluff ignorant suckers into thinking that inflation is low.

The longer they remain as tuan the more they get to steal. But the longer it goes the more people would feel the sting of their thievery and the less they can hide that bluff. If thieves can uplift entire populations by sprinkling some of what they steal around town, thievesonomics would have long tuaned economic history. ...

written by ibabonma, December 31, 2011 13:17:40

If BN has the edge but the big question is why is Najib running scared of calling for the polls? The answer is simple: The oppositions actually have the edge, just enough for a simple majority but the longer Najis keep us in waiting, the better it is for opposition. ..

written by hellosunshine, December 31, 2011 10:20:22 GE13 is the watershed in the nation's destiny and path to a developed nation or a 3rd world nation status. Making or breaking the nation now lies in the hands of the Malays and the Bumis in Sabah/Sarawak. The Chinese and Indian Malaysians are all set to say no to corruption, cronyism, power, racial and religious abuses by the lanuns. Are the majority of our Malay and Bumi brethren with us or continue to let these lanuns plunder away our children's future? What have the umnoputras done for you and your family after 54 years in power? They were the ones who could have used the nation's vast and rich resources to develop the nation's infrastructure for all to benefit. Instead, they used crony and proxy companies to set up toll concessions everywhere and at every turn, IPPs, APs, loot the GLCs, get obscenely huge 'commissions' for defence spending, purchase items at hugely inflated prices, build white elephant projects just to siphon off the money, illegally transfer out money from the country in the hundreds of billions etc etc. ABU!!! ...

written by JJFoo, December 31, 2011 10:14:45

Will UMNO/BN win the 13th GE? MOST UNLIKELY but with rampage cheating such as gerrymandering, instant-citizenship-voters, phantom voters and rigged postal votes, UMNO/BN will SURELY win because the playing field was by far too lopsided.

It's like, the oppositions were forced to run an all the way up hill marathon race with obstacle bars thrown in while UMNO/BN run a half-marathon was an all the way down hill route.

Opposition need to work on leveling the playing field, however small can be only added advantage. Make the voters aware that they have been duped by UMNO/BN machinery and mentally prepare the voters to come out and vote while they still can otherwise an uprising may be the only solution to uproot the present corrupt and tyrannic government. ..

written by vhari, December 31, 2011 09:31:47 If Anwar is convicted and jailed immediately or not

UMNO will lose more seats

If acquitted ,Umno will loose least seats

Like in 1994 election.

It certainly has the edge but the big question is why is Najib running scared of calling for the polls.

Overall it can be said that it looks likely that BN will win the 13th general election due to three main reasons: Use of racist, fear-mongering tactics to woo the Malay vote; control of mainstream media to bad-mouth the opposition plus no alternative media in rural areas; and lack of impartiality (to put it in a refined manner) by the Election Commission.

Selena Tay, Free Malaysia Today

Yes, Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak is too afraid of holding the 13th general election. He is afraid that BN will not win, and in reality he has no confidence of winning.

Otherwise, why would he not immediately call for the polls to be held the moment after he had presented the Budget on Oct 7, 2011?

After all, it is blindingly obvious that the civil service, the national institutions, the rural folk and those in the interiors of Sabah and Sarawak are supporting him. With this so-called overwhelming support, it is indeed amazing that he still lacks the courage to call for the general election.

In addition to that, he has also thrown in the RM500 aid as bait. However, the RM500 is no big deal as it is only a one-off. Even if he were to give this sum every five years, it only amounts to RM100 a year. And that is equivalent to RM8.45 a month – peanuts and pittance! Is Najib trying to make monkeys out of the rakyat?

Be that as it may, here is a brief guide highlighting the unique features on the scenario in all the states in Malaysia:

Perlis: If you think the opposition Pakatan Rakyat (PR) is in disarray, think again. In Perlis there are four warlords jostling for power: Azmi Khalid – he of the Public Accounts Committee fame; Radzi Sheikh Ahmad – well known and with much clout; Isa Sabu – present Menteri Besar (MB) and; Shahidan Kassim – previous MB.

The smallest state but giving the biggest problems to Umno. PAS has two state seats here and hope to make further inroads and DAP has also set up a branch in Perlis after being absent for more than three decades.

Penang: The Indian-Muslim NGOs try to annoy Chief Minister (CM) Lim Guan Eng but the Malays have never had it better. The support for Lim from the Malays is blanked out by the mainstream media and this could work out to Pakatan’s disadvantage because the Malays in other states will think that the Penang Malays are being marginalised by the DAP-led state government.

Kedah: PAS MB Ustaz Azizan Abu Bakar seems slow and sleepy but that is the style required in Kedah. Things are moving along fine although the mainstream media tries to paint a picture of no-progress. For example, a road in Kubang Rotan was tarred and repaired by the PAS state government but the mainstream media said it was done by the BN federal government.

The PAS government was also accused of not helping the rakyat during the flash floods in 2010 although they had disbursed RM2 million to assist the flood victims.

Kelantan: PAS MB Tok Guru Nik Aziz Nik Mat has helmed Kelantan since 1990 and this time the Malay daily which is Umno’s mouthpiece tries to drown him with the water issue by publishing front-page headlines proclaiming that the water in Kelantan is dirty and smelly.

In fact the water is clean and crystal clear and the dirty, smelly water proclaimed in the said daily is the water dug from the ground by some of the locals and this type of water is referred to by the Kelantanese as ‘boring water’. How dull can BN get! The PAS state government has not kept quiet and has issued newsletters to try to counter the BN media.

Terengganu: This state is ever-elusive for PAS although they have won it in 1959 and 2004. There are two warlords in the power struggle of Terengganu: Former MB Idris Jusoh versus current MB Ahmad Said.

The stadium-collapse and the bridge with no river are the main issues here leading the opposition to question who gets a percentage cut from the construction works. In regards to the bridge which is part of the stretch of the Jabor Highway, the cost of the said bridge has ballooned from RM174 million to RM210 million. The construction cost of Jabor Highway itself has increased from RM3.7 billion to RM5 billion.

Pahang: The home state of Najib. The hottest issue here is no doubt the one in regards to Lynas Corporation and the rare earth plant in Gebeng located in the constituency of PKR MP Fuziah Salleh. She is currently heading a people’s movement which involves the rakyat with the intention of booting out this plant.

Battle of all battles

Perak: The state that made headlines in 2009 due to BN’s illegal power-grab. Since then, the Silver State has lost its shine due to Perak MB, Umno’s Zambry Abdul Kadir and his lacklustre line-up of Exco members. Ho-hum, yawn!

But the bright spark here is the PAS Supporters Congress – the non Muslim section of PAS which has one of the most active branches in Malaysia in Perak. The co-ordination among the three Pakatan component parties is also the best in Perak.

Selangor: This is in clear and present danger of going back to BN’s grasp due to extremely aggressive campaigning by Umno using racial issues and scare-mongering tactics to win the Malay vote. Although Umno uses the same racial and scare-mongering tactics in all the states, it is the most prevalent in Selangor.

Negeri Sembilan: One might think that nothing much happens here but lest we forget, Gemas in Negeri Sembilan is the location of the National Feedlot Corporation (NFC) cattle ranch – ground zero of the Cattle-Condo scandal. Enough said.

Malacca: Welcome to the Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Melaka in Batu Berendam which has only five flights a week. At other times, it is a good place to hone one’s skills in kite-flying.

Malacca is also home to the largest go-cart circuit in Southeast Asia but rest assured it is not so much a go-cart circuit as a ghost-cart circuit. Costing more than RM12 million to construct, there is no one and no activity there!

If Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is morally unfit to become Prime Minister of Malaysia....is the current PM of Malaysia morally fit?

2012-01-01T00:38:00.000-08:00

(The Malaysian Insider) - Popular blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin denounced Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as morally unfit to become prime minister, saying that Malaysians are unable to accept a homosexual to lead the country.

Better known as RPK, the self-exiled editor of the Malaysia-Today news portal was quoted in an Umno-owned national daily as crediting Anwar’s huge support to widespread public perception of the opposition leader as an “alternative” to the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN).

It did not necessarily mean Anwar was a better leader or PM-designate, said the man who was once seen to sit in the PKR de facto chief’s inner circle.

“I don’t care. If you say is Anwar gay? I say maybe. But you cannot become prime minister. That is the reality,” said Raja Petra in an interview published today the Malay-language Mingguan Malaysia.

Raja Petra did not explicitly call Anwar a homosexual but said there was no room in Malaysia for someone who is gay and wants to become PM.

“In Australia, you can. You can be gay and even become a minister. In Malaysia you have to choose. I personally have no problems but if you want to become PM and be gay, in Malaysia you cannot.

“I am not defending immoral behaviour but that is your choice. If you choose that you cannot have this. In [the] UK, Australia you can have both,” he said.

Anwar, 64, is currently awaiting his verdict on his second sodomy charge, where he is accused of sodomising a former aide.

The High Court is scheduled to deliver its ruling on January 9.

The former deputy prime minister has vehemently denied the charge, saying that it was part of a ploy to destroy his political career.

In his harshest remarks against Anwar and Pakatan Rakyat yet, Raja Petra said the opposition pact needed to cut down on its campaign for Anwar, and that the fight for reform was beyond the political future of one man.

Saying that PR had “bigger fish to fry”, he stressed that the “future of this country does not depend on this one man.”

“I do not know if Anwar is guilty or not. For me the issue is not important. The question is, is he the best candidate to run the country? If you are a good person, you are surely ‘clean’. But if you can’t run the country, you can’t, it’s that simple.”

Raja Petra charged that Anwar’s performance as Selangor Economic Advisor has been unimpressive, and that he spent too much time going overseas for functions and lectures at universities.

The controversial blogger claimed he received complaints of rampant corruption in Selangor, saying that nothing had changed since PR took over from BN there.

“We tell him [Anwar] stay in the country and do your job in Pakatan. More than 60 trips abroad is too much...it is as if he is running away not knowing what to do,” Minguan Malaysia reported Raja Petra as saying.

Raja Petra stressed that politics in Malaysia needed to move beyond national leaders like Anwar or even PM Datuk Seri Najib Razak and more on structure and ideas.

“I think we do not need to talk about Anwar anymore. It is not about Anwar. When we talk politics, we talk about Najib-Anwar, Najib-Anwar.

“What if Najib gets a heart attack like his father? What if something happens to Anwar? He is not young, he is older than me...we will get new leaders…we must move on,” the blogger said

Comments (3)...

written by Raja Kim, January 01, 2012 16:03:25

UMNO has the treasure chest to rain money and goodies on people in return for a vote.

You need millions to win elections.The ruling BN has the money. Are we going to be stuck with this corrupt government? Looks like that is what Pete wants. ...

written by temenggong, January 01, 2012 15:56:19

You'll see your readership dwindle because DAP chinaman and christians have nothing more to hold on a melayu now that Anwar is gone! They were just using him and the PKR melayus under the cover of multiracialism. ...

written by earthman, January 01, 2012 15:31:45

Anwar must have a tendency for man's shit hole and his Umno friends before knew this. So they set a trap for him . Whether he did it this time or not , the enemy had something to put him on trial and the rest is history.

There is no point now crying over spilled milk , but be clean ourselves and courageous to fight against corruption and evil. Fighting evil against evil will only makes evil even stronger and bigger . We must come clean. Ask ourselves, example ; 'did we cheat to receive RM500 for those earning below RM3000 ? ' If we had cheated , we had no right to accuse others of corruption.

Why legalise the sale of alcohol in Malaysia in the first place? Could it because the tax revenue is so lucrative for the Government not to collect? Just wonder where the Government park this income under the National GDP? Even if the Muslims are caught drinking alcohol in public places, it is actually the total failure of JAIS to “dakwah” those Muslims right from the beginning of their religious education. By the way, what kind of religious education system that we have currently? Isn't corruption and looting the peoples' money is more heinous crime than some poor souls having alcohol drinks that are easily available anywhere in Malaysia?

2011-12-31T23:26:00.001-08:00

(The Star) - Controversial PAS leader Datuk Dr Hasan Ali joined a rare raid on drinking spots at Mutiara Damansara and Petaling Jaya, which saw the arrest of 41 Muslims.

Among those nabbed in Ops Mungkar were 18 people who were caught taking alcohol, an offence under Selangor's syariah law.

They include six women.

Dr Hasan said the Selangor Islamic Affairs Department (Jais) has strong evidence to charge them for alcohol consumption under the Syariah Criminal Enactment 1995, which provides for a jail term of up to two years and a fine of not more than RM3,000, or both.

Unlike other states, Selangor does not whip offenders caught drinking alcohol.

Dr Hasan said the other 23 pub goers caught in the raid, including 13 women, would be required to attend counselling sessions.

“They will have to give their statements on Jan 11 and 12, before Jais fixes the dates for counselling,” he said at the Jais office here yesterday.

He said the raiding party, which included the Bukit Aman police, was led by Jais director Datuk Marzuki Hussin following a tip-off. Those arrested were aged between 18 and 58.

“We could see there was entertainment going on and the drinking (of alcohol),” said Dr Hasan, who is in charge of Islamic affairs in the state executive council.

He refuted suggestions that the operation was connected to the recent controversies surrounding him.

Dr Hasan, the former Selangor PAS commissioner, is embroiled in a feud with the leadership over the party's policy switch from an Islamic state agenda to a welfare state.

In August, he defended the Jais checks on the Damansara Utama Methodist Church and had also locked horns with the state over the sale of alcoholic beverages at convenience stores and the mushrooming of massage centres.

Comments (16)...

written by Chavin, January 01, 2012 14:56:48

This fool really saboing Pakatan plan of retaining Selangor. ...

written by arazak, January 01, 2012 14:11:20

Hello Hassan,

Please also raid UMNO's office throughout the country. Tell me Hassan. . ., isn't corruption and looting the peoples' money is more heinous crime than some poor souls having drinking binge?

If you want to be "Mat Sekodeng", then resign from your ADUN's post! ...

written by syd, January 01, 2012 14:10:01

we have to thank the sultzn of selangor for creating and encouraging this kind of raid.

next time, kindly raid hard rock cafe premises and conord hotel. ..

written by durianbesar, January 01, 2012 14:00:06

someone should fcuk this fcuker up.... very badly like kicking onto his balls very very hard....

people are enjoying and having some clean fun what's the issue about some people celebrating at a pub....

this nonsense from Jais or Thaik have to STOP.... put a contract on this mother fcuking assshole...... ...

written by SiHangChai, January 01, 2012 13:16:33

Big deal, Hasan Ali. Luckily I was not there if not, I will do a Khir Toyo and present you a penyapu to clean your own bloody and sickening atitude. Why go and catch these Muslims? Why not you go and catch all those UMNO ministers who drinks and womanising? I'm sure you know who are these ministers! ...

written by Liberian, January 01, 2012 13:12:23

Hassan Ali already know that PAS will not offer him any seat next GE so he is now undergoing a short course with Jais ! I have attended many High Society partis held by our country leaders where alcohol drinks flows! Once a Raja Muda held his birthday bash in one of the famous hill station. Cold drinks (non alcohol) was served until the 'do a ' ceremony after that the Kadi was sent home by the Raja Muda ADCs. Then alcoholic drinks were served! There was no Hassan Ali and if he interrupt , he would get slap! ...

written by astroace, January 01, 2012 12:29:42

PAS should get rid of hassan ali for good. He is trying to show that PAS is an extremist party as compared to umno and instigate peoples' anger towards Selangor government. Why he is there during the raid is anybody's guest. He represent PAS as a councillor and jais is not under the Selangor government control anymore.

Every religion is good and is personal, but when one practice extremism to others it becomes harmful to that religion. Everything happens for a reason. ...

written by NottyMaus, January 01, 2012 11:09:15

Durians, when very ripened, also have a trace of alcohol in the durian flesh, adding to the fine taste.

Haram-lah, is the king of fruit to the malays because of the alcohol content; yet malays indulge in durian eating !

Ptui ! Hyppopotamuskritters ! ..

written by vhari, January 01, 2012 10:52:04

Tapai ,favourite dish,has alcohol(arak)in it. ...

written by Merdeka, January 01, 2012 10:45:09

Hasan Ali, why don't you also go after those who are corrupted and bribery and abused of power? ...

written by fireduck, January 01, 2012 10:43:00

Political career-wise, this guy's is as good as over. He will probably even lose his deposit if he contest. Everyone has a chink in the armour .... accounting guys, banking employees, IT personnel .... if you can do a background search on this guy's activities & sources of income. Check on his history, his younger days, even his teenage years .... .

written by ZamZamAlaKazam, January 01, 2012 10:32:39

...Hasan, please look into some parties held or attended by royalties too. Uh-huh, you are not invited are you? I thought you are their champion... .

written by jokersland, January 01, 2012 10:02:21

The new chosen one Taliban of Bolehland. Hassan Ali, since you are holier-than thou, I dare you to cast the first stone if you have not sinned before. ...

written by SoundMan, January 01, 2012 09:07:23

Hassan Ali beloved of his god ! A most stupid exercise for his god...cheeeeze ! PAS best rid us all of this type of hypocrite....i recall a certain Malaysian Ambassador to the USA going beyond a quiet drink..hehehehehehe ! ...

written by malchindian, January 01, 2012 08:32:46

New job description - head of jais? ...

written by NottyMaus, January 01, 2012 08:23:09

Happy Kafir New Year, oh Hasan Ali, god of malaysia !

Hope your superior god endows you with a little bit more grey matter, this 2012 !

If MCA leadership is led by a scandal-tainted and immoral president, Dr Chua Soi Lek........ What about UMNO leadership, then?

2011-12-31T22:57:00.000-08:00

Two time bombs have exploded in the MCA in the past two days

By Jackson Ng, Retired Journalist

TWO time bombs have exploded in the MCA in the past two days but the mainstream media, especially MCA’s mouthpiece, The Star, has down played the news.

About 1,000 MCA members from Penang and Johor have resigned en bloc and they cite the loss of confidence in the party leadership as their reason for quitting.

The resignations are only the tip of the iceberg and it signals the beginning of the imploding of Barisan Nasional (BN)’s second largest component party.

According to a few of those who quit but did not want to be named, more MCA members nationwide are expected to quit in the run-up to the next general election.

The mainstream media are down playing the news because it is a major blow for the MCA and BN’s preparations for the general election widely expected to be called by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak in February or March.

Those who quit say they had lost confidence in the MCA leadership because it is led by a scandal-tainted and immoral president, Dr Chua Soi Lek.

“Whenever he speaks on any issue, it backfires and is a laughing stock of the people or grassroots. This is because Chua is in no position to talk about issues on morality and integrity.

“We cannot continue to be associated with such a leader and his cronies who are only looking after their own interest and positions,” said a former MCA member who is known to this writer.

Citing recent events and issues, the former member said: “It is embarrassing to MCA for Chua to talk about freedom of the press and freedom of speech.

“What is he talking about when the first thing he (Chua) did when he won the presidency by fluke was to place The Star directly under the control of the party.

“The paper is now under the overall control of a panel that includes his son (Tee Yong) as a key member. He also appointed his son in government positions.

“The MCA leadership is now led by a man who is morally tainted and one who practices nepotism and cronyism to turn the party into his family’s empire,” he added.

Another former member added: “Just watch how MCA implodes in the run-up to the 13th General Election. At least 30 per cent of its members will eventually abandon the party by polling day.”

In another development, party insiders say Selangor MCA is in shambles following a fallout between Chua and state MCA chief Donald Lim Siang Chai.

As the state chief, Lim does not even have the say to decide which seat to contest.

Lim is said to be eyeing the Selayang parliamentary seat but Chua already has someone else in mind – possibly a woman candidate.

What is telling is that Lim does not even have the confidence to try and wrest back his former seat - PJ Selatan – where he was beaten by PKR’s Hee Loy Sian by 5,706 votes in 2008.

Party insiders say the backdoor Deputy Finance Minister Senator is now desperate and is manoeuvring to get what he wants.

The insiders say it would be most interesting to see how severely Selangor MCA would be split by the Chua-Lim tussle for control of the state.

Comments (9)...

written by Renegade, January 01, 2012 00:47:09

MCA members had planted explosives into the party that they were hoping to build when they accepted CSL as their president. Therefore it comes as no surprise when you said that MCA is imploding. How can a President (who admitted that he was the person caught with his pants down) earn respect from the Chinese community (at least) that he claims to be representing through the party? How do you expect the women folks to vote for the party that supports such an obnoxious character? A vote for the party would mean supporting someone who would not hesitate to have sex with another woman behind his wife's back. If he can double-cross his wife who is his life partner, who else can he not double-cross? Just food for your thought: Can you get good apples if you toss a good apple into a barrel of bad apples? Similarly, can you change a bad apple into a good one if you throw a bad apple into a barrel of good apples? Perhaps this will help to answer what we expect of BN component parties. ...

written by uxzee, December 31, 2011 21:35:05

In MCA you get leaders who are ever willing to kow tow to UMNO and readily display and accept that they are not equal citizens of the country. These MCA leaders are scums who sell off the rights and dignity of the Chinese community for their own personal gains. There is no more hope for the Chinese community to still depend on MCA. MCA's shelf life is over. DAP or PKR will be a more viable option for the Chinese in this age. ...

written by malchindian, December 31, 2011 10:21:15

The reality is, MCA will not be annihilated. This is just the shake down. Porn star will be replaced as soon as a "winnable" successor is found. Insiders say the warlords and godfathers have been burning the midnight oil scrapping the bottom of the barrel for a redeemer.

That's why pornstar junior is making lots of noise with his "xcuse me, over here! look at me! remember me?" and OTK has dug in his heels to mind his constituency of Pandan. Now watch how the Godfathers work to save the party.

In the meantime I savour my coffee awaiting news of more exoduses from MCA . ...

written by vhari, December 31, 2011 07:11:37

I predict MCA,Gerakan,MIC,PPP will wiped out. ...

written by NSTPravda, December 31, 2011 06:34:15

Your lies about the death of MCA is wholly and mainly exaggerated and somewhat premature. Let us reiterate from our reliable inside source of the highest level of UMNO the following:

1. Even if all the pendatangs cina-kui kafir infidels resign (unlikely, as long as some of the infidels have their snouts in the UMNO gravy train), MCA will live on because UMNO have the confidence that it will live on and to continue finance them.

2. Don't believe this "tip of the ice berg" rumours... who in our beloved nation has seen any ice-bergs in the straits of Melaka or the South China (Ugh!) Sea (soon to be named "Laut UMNO" or better still "Laut C4 Ro$mak"). So this is a figment of imagination of some anti-national, kafir elements.

3. For the 1000s that's supposed to have resigned, we can replace them with Ailah-fearing non-pork eating clones of Rithaudeen Tee or Frogg Hee... the best MCA support tax money can buy, courtesy of UMNO.

So, al-tantuyalah! Semua-nya OK... Remember you read these here first, the best Jakim halal (pending) certified, Good-news New Media that any ringgit can buy. Dollar akbar! ...

written by An Old Man, December 31, 2011 06:18:19

Half of the MCA members are STUPID; hence Chua's resurrection as its president. Chinese history is replete with cases of mandarins and generals of dubious character holding sway while true patriots rotting away in jail or far-flung outposts! Chinese NEVER learn! Despite all the Sun-Tze stuff they talk about, they hardly know what is STRATEGY. Sun-Tze was a master of DECEPTIONS, not a strategist!!!

Any chap who claims he can read the character of a person by looking at the subject's face will tell you Chua is. No-good fellow. Take a look at his images more closely, doesn't he looks like Kim Jong-il - not in looks but in demeanours???

Many who joined MCA did have good intentions. But no sooner they will get sucked in by the lip-service, self-serving and outright corrupt culture there. I had had a first-hand experience. I quit within a month after seeing the so-called leaders showing their true colours after a hearty meal or ome drinks! ..

written by fireduck, December 31, 2011 01:53:55

MCA is already a dead party -- a stillborn in the next GE. ...

written by albert zacharias, December 31, 2011 01:38:20

MCA head is a soiled leg walking on clean marble in the Queen's chamber ....boleh kah???? MCA head, please go and clean up yourself before you try be chief of the Chinese. Maybe you want to be the chief of the mamaks? Better still be the chief of p**imaks ...

written by hplooi, December 30, 2011 22:12:48

just like wu-san-gui the mca is culpable for the crimes committed against malaysian chinese. from the steady erosion of citizen rights to the more serious mismanagement of tax resources meant to uplift the bumiputras. to rub salt into wound, we are constantly reminded that we have NO say in the country and that we are somehow responsible for the (so-called) economic-challenged position of the bumiputras inspite of the fact that 90% of the nation's resources are channeled towards the bumiputras. it wouldn't be so bad if at least this 'handicap' has really been used fairly to uplift the bumiputras.

dato' donald is a good old time friend (he was my witness when I sign up with my wife at the registrar of marriage in the 80s). however if he ever speak to me on politics, i will just 'niu-ni' (bird-you) 10x.

burns me up every time mca try to be sanctimonious.

PM Najib is being advised by some of the "best" strategists from the States. These are of the McKinsey or Boston Consulting group types of young boys and girls. They only know one model: The end justifies the means. Machiavelli is their God........

2011-12-31T22:50:00.000-08:00

STEADYAKU47

UMNO is full of failed leaders. More of their first tier leaders have, at one time or another, left UMNO than have stayed. Tunku, Hussein Onn, Mahathir, Tengku Razaleigh, Musa Hitam, Anwar Ibrahim and maybe Mahathir again if he does not have his way in the run up to the 13th general elections. Some have done so out of spite, some out of a sense of moral responsibility while some chose to do politics outside UMNO. I look at Najib today and see a man out of his depth in a job he is ill equipped to handle.

He is clearly not a leader able to put two separate pieces of information together in his head – what more process the numerous inputs coming in from all angles and sources – and digest them before making the necessary decisions that would affect his party, his people and his country.

It is tragic for us and our country that this incompetent leader is advised by people whose vested interest overwhelms all other considerations. UMNO is obsessed with one thing and one thing only – how to hang on to power. There is no competent strategy of what to do with the malaise that has now overtaken our country because of this obsession for power over these last 50 years. No competent strategy of how to move on after the 13th general election. These UMNO goons have no plans beyond taking back power in the 13th general election. It would seem that should power be theirs again after the 13th general election it would be back to the orgy of plundering and pillaging of our country wealth and resources!

Who advises Najib? Mahathir? The same Mahathir that wants his so called ‘legacy’ wreck asunder by Pak Lah to now be ‘protected’ by Najib? What legacy? Abuses and incompetence would more appropriately describe the 20 over years of Mahathir’s rule. This same Mahathir has already fast tracked his son into Cabinet! Now he stands poised to ‘negotiate’ with Najib his support for Najib in the coming 13th general election in return for what? The crooked bridge in Johore? A minister ship for his son? The protection of his crony business interest because without the OSA he would be exposed as having betrayed the trust put upon him by the people to safeguard the interest of the nation rather then to abuse it by giving lucrative IPP and other projects and contracts to his cronies? What sort of advise would Mahathir give to Najib? Surely no advise that would benefit our nations interest and its people!

He is advised by UMNO leaders? Take Isa Samad and Thamby Chik – what advise would they give Najib that would benefit the rural Malays that are under their purview? These are two UMNO rejects that has to be recycled because UMNO has need for Isa’s proficiency in money politics and Thamby Chik expertise for gutter politics. It sickens me to the core to have these still titled dregs of human society in position of such responsibilities!

What advised has Najib been given to deal with the opposition – Pakatan Rakyat? His first foray into opposition territory was infamously successful with the taking of Perak from Pakatan Rakyat – not through the electoral process but through the baiting of opposition MP’s to cross over to Barisan Nasional. I will leave it to your imagination to figure out what bait was used. Suffice to say that apart from that bait, the Sultan and the Judiciary were co-opted to come onto Barisan Nasional side. What the price was for the capitulation of the Sultan and the Judiciary is still to be tabulated but we have a fair idea what the final costs will be!

After Perak Najib embarked on a relentless vendetta against the opposition. At times even death, as in Teoh Beng Hock’s, did not dimmed the enthusiasm of the offending mechanism used to harass the opposition. As if one death was not enough, it took another death before MACC began to get its act together – hopefully it will not regress to what it was before – a running dog for UMNO’s political agenda.

And now it would seem that only the jailing of the opposition leader would satisfy Najib. What have we regressed to? Somalia, Chad, Zimbabwe or the Democratic Repblic of Congo? In these places arrest warrants and the judiciary are weapons of choice for the government to neutralize any opposition!

Comments (7)...

written by SoundMan, December 31, 2011 21:19:22

UMNO after GE13 ? Let us all go for A.B.U. ! ...

written by An Old Man, December 31, 2011 15:06:11

I believe Najib is being advised by some of the "best" strategists from the States. These are of the McKinsey or Boston Consulting group types of young boys and girls. They only know one model: The end justifies the means. Machiavelli is their god. (No thanks to Oxford Dictionary, Nicolo Macihiavelli was actually a great statesman, not a politician of the UMNO variety!) Power is everything. As a Chinese saying goes; power can even make hantu do your biddings! Mahathir made corruption a respectable culture, Badawi glorified mediocrity of the highest order, and Nabib out-does everybody, he chooses to swallow wholesale! With RM9 billion, you can buy an aircraft carrier - with money to spare - let alone six silly patrol boats! I leave it to you go imagine the loot! Indonesia used to be a basket case in corruption. Suharto's wife was known as Mrs Ten. But ours is Mr 3-to-10 fold!!! Only Phillipines can match us -with their Marcos and Arroyo. But the situation did get better. Whereas in our case, things seem to head for a bottomless pit. How sad! ...

written by litingrui, December 31, 2011 15:03:43

It is an unwritten fact that MACC is one of the brances of UMNO's gestapo. The others are OSA, PDRM, Peaceful Assembly Act, etc. When a government looks after the interests of its people, it is a good government. Who cares whether it is communist, democratic or socialist or whatever name you call it. It is s good government. What is so proud to be call democratic country when your government looks after the interest of the politicians' pocket rather than the people's pockets. It is a bad government. period. Unless you are uncivilised, can you be proud of this country? ...

written by alacarte, December 31, 2011 13:16:46

And after victory at the 13th general election what else do they want? A responsible and accountable government. And good governance. And then? Prosecute those leaders who had abuse the trust place upon them by the people.

This is the scariest prospect face by B.N. people, this explain why they have to win at all cost, by the way such time will come sooner or later, by the way the new Gomen must build thousands of jail cells to house these criminals. ...

written by Sribayu, December 31, 2011 12:55:59

UMNO will never change and would continue to remain as autocratic, draconic and mafia association. Najib is probably seen as the worst Prime Minister in Malaysia and it will be only a matter of time when things will turn for the worst.

It’s too bad when the same crazy person who was behind the troubled UMNO in 1988, and also sacked many of his enemy who opposed him (Musa Hitam, Razaleigh, Anwar & Pak Lah) is the same one who brought Najib in to power.

As long as Mamaktaik is around, UMNO would never be in peace. ...

written by IbnAbdHalim, December 31, 2011 12:12:27

On lesser tone, we need a new broom. The present vehicle is unserviceable. ...

written by vhari, December 31, 2011 11:58:24

Sodomy 2

Ligam tape-no further investigation

Altatantuya bombing

Perak capture,Siva carried away

Kugan died,TBH died.Then Sabbini died.

Cowgate ,Lavishous expenditure

Kickbacks

Some to come

"MELAYU AKAN HILANG DIDUNIA...AKHIR NYA!!"

2011-12-29T08:37:00.000-08:00

The "Malay World" is actually very small.........

Regardless of Article 153, UMNO can Malay this, and Malay that, and yet, I find it both amusing and sad that they are claiming the "Superiority" of a clan which is actually fast diminishing.

By John Doe

Everyday we hear of someone screaming and shouting about Article 153. Article 153 seems to be the Bane-of-Malaysian-Unity, the Bondage-of-UMNO, and the Brunt-of-Kopitiam-Discussions. Somehow, dress like, speak like, practise customs like, and is Muslim defines a race. Race, race, race, race. That's all Malaysians are bombarded with all day long. Has Malaysia no "udder" better topics to speak about? Chinese-Indian-Malay this, Chinese-Indian-Malay that. This will be the last time I will discuss this. And once and for all put to rest all this nonsensical cloak-and-dagger discussions.

Before I begin, and this is trained at Pakatan Rakyat - STOP screaming about Tax-Payers' Money. 90% of Malaysians do NOT care! Why? Because only 10% of the Malaysian Population pays Tax. And those who do NOT pay Tax, do NOT care! The majority of Malaysian Government's income comes from Oil Money. And to stop UMNO, you have to stop their source of income. This Oil income is circa 45% of Malaysia's Wealth. Capisce? And why do I bring Oil into the formula? Simple! The Majority of oil comes from Borneo. And in Borneo, there are only 11% Malays in Sabah. And once you deduct the percentage of Melanaus in Sarawak, you are left with about 3% Malays in Sarawak.
Number one:

Melanaus are Melanaus. Malays are Malays. Ibans are Ibans. And you will never hear anyone speak about the Teochew race. Since when is a Chinese Muslim a Malay? And since when is a Kerala-boy a Malay?

Number two:

Konvensyen Dunia Melayu proudly proclaims that the "Malay-World" has a population which includes Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Philippines, Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, Burma and Vietnam. Sounds dandy. But to the average person, this is confusing. It seems to suggest that all of Thailand, which has a population of circa 60 million is Malay. However, for that to happen, then Konvensyen Dunia Melayu needs to accept that you MUST also accept the definition of a Buddhist Malay in Indochine, Hindu Malay in Bali, and Abangan Malay in Jowo, as well as a Catholic Malay in the Philippines!! Clearly, these countries are as Austronesian (Malay) as the samples found in Malaysia, but they are definitely not Muslim.

Konvensyen Dunia Melayu needs to trim their numbers down by quite a bit then. Let's start with some of the Major-slashings. (You do the math yourself.) Approximately 80% of all Javanese are of the Abangan Religion, and Jowo has a population of about 120 Million. Bali is 93% Hindu, Philippines is 87% Catholic, and less than 2% of Thais are Muslim.

And what about Malaysia then?

According to the latest Census, despite all the body-snatching, conversions of Chinese, and Indians for Business Purposes, conversion of Chinese and Indians for Marriage Purposes, plus the deeply encouraged importation of Indonesian Muslims, Project IC of the Philippino Muslims, Southern Thai Muslims, Bangala Muslims, India's Muslims, Pakistan's Muslims, heck, even Serbia's and Palestinian Muslims and the insistence that "Malays" needing to breed 16.3 children per woman, it is perhaps SHOCKING to reveal that the census of Malaysia in the year 2011 proudly announces that:

"Malays are (now finally) the largest ethnic group in the country, comprising 50.1 per cent of the 27,484,596 total"

Taken from Here: http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/census-population-hits-27.5m-mark/
Wait a minute!?! ONLY 50.1 PERCENT? Yes. It reads correctly. What happened to the 68% Malay-Muslim the Main-Stream-Media had always advertised, and insisted that we believe?? You mean now, and only now there are 50.1% Malays in Malaysia? Was there a drop in Islamic popularity? An 18% drop is a serious concern, by everyone involved. Regardless, let's assume that the 50.1% is not faked in any way ....

What if we deducted all the Chinese Muslims, all the Indian Muslims, and all the "dan lain-lain Muslims", what percentage would we end up with? 30%? Less? (Yea, yea, we all know guys like Abdullah Tee, Mahathir, and his koncho-koncho are called "Malay" because of Article 153.) What if we also deducted all the Malays who have been successfully proselytized? Yea, all those closet Hindu Malays, and Buddhist Malays, Catholic & Christian Malays, Jewish Malays, Hare Krishna Malays, Bahai Malays, Mahakari Malays Zoroastrian Malays and Atheist Malays .... What numbers then would we have? 20%? Less?

What was it ten years ago? What was it 30 years ago, and what was it half a century ago?

Who is a Malay?

A 1974 document issued to the United Nations by the Government of Malaysia, prepared by DOROTHY Z. FERNANDEZ, AMOS H. HAWLEY, SILVIA PREDAZA, defines "Malay" as:

"... Malay: Malay, Indonesian, Negrito, Jakun, Semai, Semdai,Temiar, Other Orang Asli and Other Malay(s)..."

Hold on a second ... A Negrito, Jakun, Semai, Semdai,Temiar, Other Orang Asli are Muslim? What happened to Article 153?
Also, why is every Indonesian on Malaysian soil considered a "Malay"? There is also no mention of the word Bumiputra in that Document at all. Mind you that this was prepared in 1974, and Article 153 was already almost twenty years old!!

What is interesting to note is a particular paragraph which reads like this, and I quote verbatim:

"...There was also an immigration of Malays from the neighboring islands, particularly from Java and Sumatra, to work on the rubber estates. It is not possible to trace their numbers through the early years. Attempts were made to identify "Malays and Other Natives of the Archipelego" in the enumerations of 1891 and 1911, but the ease of assimilation of Malay migrants from Indonesia made the counts very unreliable..."

What then is all this nonsense about "Malays" NOT being "pendatangs" and all?

Read again the above. It clearly and plainly states "immigration of Malays from neighboring Islands, particularly Java and Sumatra..."

If this sentence does not define "Pendatang Malay", then I don't know what does!!! I must remind you that this is indeed a Malaysian Government Official Document, prepared for the United Nations.

What is significant in this document, is that on page 16, it gives a breakdown of the races. Including all the (in their own words) "Pendatangs".

The "Malay" Population in Malaysia totaled 3,125,474, the Chinese 2,333,756, and the Indians 696,186. It is strange that there was no "dan lain-lain" category. As if they did not exist at all. The total population in this table is drafted at 6,278.758. And thus, we can deduce that if we added 3,125,474 (Malay) to 2,333,756(Chinese) and 696,186(Indian), and subtracted this number from the grand total of 6,278.758, we would have the numbers for the "dan lain-lain" category, which amounts to 123,342. However, when one divides 3,125,474 (including Indonesians, Orang Asli's, Sabahans, and Sarawakians etc etc) by the total population of 6,278.758, then you would hit an astonishing figure of 49.778539%.

Hold on a minute now. You mean that despite all those inclusions of "Pendatang Indonesians" and Sabahans, and Sarawakians (they are classified as the "other Malays") and just about everyone else, the total "Malay" population in 1974, in percentage terms was only 49.778539% ? Anyone else can see the number-manipulations which has been going on now right under your noses?

The full document in PDF form can be downloaded here: http://www.cicred.org/Eng/Publications/pdf/c-c34.pdf

(Yes, it was typed with a typewriter. Clickety-clack, smudges and all)

Number Three:

DNA, according to Prof Zilfalil Alwi, defines "Malay" as an admixture of multiple races with 52% coming from Chinese DNA, and the rest, from Indians, amongst others. The long and short of it, a term which most Malaysians endear, "Chindian". Another theory presented by Professor Zilfalil was that early Malays could also be Indian priests who came to the Malay peninsula to spread Hinduism. Sejarah Melayu fortifies this when it recorded that the first Kings of Malaya were indeed of the Keling stock, which I wrote about here, titled "Parameswara is a certified Singaporean Keling - Not a Joke"

You can read the full piece here: http://malaysia-today.net/mtcolumns/letterssurat/43394-parameswara-is-a-certified-singaporean-keling-not-a-joke

You can read about the Malay DNA piece here: http://www.asiaone.com/print/News/AsiaOne%2BNews/Malaysia/Story/A1Story20111026-307064.html

On Dec 23rd 2011, on USM's own website, they presented this again

Read it yourself from the horse's own mouth here: http://www.usm.my/index.php/about-usm/news-archive/66-news-highlight/5956-DNA-MAPPING-PROVE-ASIANS-HAVE-SAME-GENETIC-ANCESTRY-.html

I will call your attention however, to one of Prof Zilfalil Alwi's own statements, and that is "...From his presentation, the 'Indianisation' of the Malay peninsula was described in early Chinese accounts, where there was a Hindu kingdom...", and the only thing which I want to stress, is that they are called "Chinese Records" because the Chinese were already in Geographical Malaya. And being a Hindu certainly does NOT make one an Indian!! Race and Religion do NOT correlate. Country borders and religion does have a correlation though, and that is something else to think about.

Number Four:

Why is it that once a Chinese or an Indian converts to Islam, they have to change their name(s) to an Arabic one, and inadvertently put Abdullah as your father's name?

Perhaps Malay Muslims have never heard or come across Hui Liangyu (China vice premier) and Sania Mirza (tennis player). Their names never resembled anything Arabic but they are well-known Muslims. This includes Yvonne Redley (a reporter once detained by Taliban), Nicolas Anelka and Frank Ribery (both footballers) are still proud to be called by their original name despite their conversion to Islam. It is important to note that none carry the "bin Abdullah" suffix.

Many become Muslims when they want to marry a Muslim while others convert to Islam as a means of tapping in to the social and economic benefits that Muslims enjoy. This is certainly an excellent way to promote one's religion.

Number Five:

The Baju Melayu is NOT Muslim clothing. Neither is the Songkok. I guarantee you that neither the Prophet Muhammad, nor any of his 10,000 Soldiers wore the Baju Melayu. Unless of course, someone from UMNO tells you that Prophet Muhammad was a Malay!! The Songkok clearly comes from the Bataks of Medan, who in turn were either inspired or (more likely) copied it from Nehru in India. The Kopiah, on the other hand, is as Jewish as it is Islamic. (Google "Religious Skullcap" yourself.) The Jewish word for it is "kippah". For those who do not know, the French government banned the wearing of kippot, hijabs and large crosses in public primary and secondary schools in France in March 2004. Contrary to what you were told, the French were NOT only banning the Hijab. In fact, one could proudly wear the baju Melayu in France and no one gives a hoot, because it is NOT Muslim clothing, and is not recognised as so.

Number Six:

The 20-point agreement and the (now erased) 18-point agreement between the Federation and Borneo can be read here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/20-point_agreement

How many of these have been violated? Anyone been to Kuching would note that the street-signs are all in English (most of them anyway.).

I want to point your attention to

Point 12: Special position of indigenous races

"In principle the indigenous races of North Borneo should enjoy special rights analogous to those enjoyed by Malays in Malaya, "

This in essence means that there is absolutely no need for conversion to any religion other than their own to enjoy the same details of Article 153. Failure to comply with this probably allows for both Sabah and Sarawak to "un-join" themselves like what happened to Singapore.

Although, this remains the prerogative of the future "Republic of Borneo" citizens to decide. That is the true trademark of Democracy. Decision by the people, and not decision by the Dictators, and this is perhaps the best explanation of what is happening around the world. Regime after Regime is collapsing one by one. Perhaps the UN would welcome the "Republic of Borneo" as its 197th country after Sudan (North and South?) Borneo certainly has the resources to do so, and if they exercised "skill procurement" like Singapore, they can continue to "brain-drain" the peninsular of her top Academics, and trained professionals. The Oil wells will certainly carry her through the year 2030, especially with Rigs like "Kiki" being one of the top producers beating the combined wealth of all of Miri's oil rigs (but that's another story).
I'm also pretty sure that Pakatan Rakyat would assist you in gaining this independence, as their assurances of fairness to all, based on their Championing of Human RIghts, Voice-of-the-People Battle-Cry and so on would be happy to grant you this, if you collaborated with them before the coming 13th General Elections. After all, it's a win-win situation. Pakatan gets to defeat UMNO, and the "Republic of Borneo" is born. What a fantastic photo-finish!! No longer will Penans have to be raped, no longer will Taib be robbing Sarawak, and Bruno Manser's body may finally be found after all these years. For West Malaysians, it makes no difference to you at all. Most of you have never been there anyway, and even if you did today, you still need to show either your Passport (before) or show your MyKad (aka IC).

So, in addressing Abraham-son-of-Ali's statement about Article 153 and the church, and it's relevance to May 13th, what is the relationship? Are you telling everyone that Perkasa would launch another May 13th if "dan lain-lains" start to debate Article 153?

As shown above, the Borneo people have been denied their Bornean Article 12 Rights. Are you defending the Bornean Article 12 as well? Was Article 153 written by Prophet Muhammad? Is Article 153 called a Hadith? The Koran? Is this man-made document so "Holy" that it cannot be changed?

I know for a fact the Malaysian Constipation has already been changed almost 600 times since 1957. With the "most significant change" pertaining to the de-clawing of the Sultans. Proselytizing of Muslims? You want evidence? Sure, I'll give you evidence. Just read here:

(A kid with internet access would have found these easily): http://www.strategicnetwork.org/index.php?loc=kb&view=v&id=2557&fto=633&
and here: http://www.partnersintl.org/partners/se/mymw

Go ahead. The evidence is clear. Arrest them! Hang them, stone them, or decapitate them. Show the world that Malaysia is indeed NOT the moderate Muslim country which she pretends to be!! And all because of a few over-zealous individuals who pretend to be "Holier-than-Thou" whilst digging their hands into the wealth of the country, and robbing it blind!

What happened to Article 11 of the Federal Constipation? Did Abraham-son-of-Ali erase it? Did he also erase Sarawak's 18-point agreement? It's certainly contained within the same Constipation which he screams and rants about (while saying three times on Al Jazeera as well). So where does that leave us?
The truth of the matter is, the "Malay World" is actually very small. Regardless of Article 153, UMNO can Malay this, and Malay that, and yet, I find it both amusing and sad that they are claiming the "Superiority" of a clan which is actually fast diminishing. Javanese are now called Melayu, Bugis are now called Melayu, Acehnese are now called Melayu, Minangs are called Melayu and even Southern Thais, and Southern Philippinos are called Melayu. What exactly is so important about being a Melayu which warrants the attack on the Nons?

Prophet Muhammad was certainly NOT a Malay, and hence, the "Ketuanan Melayu" is pure bollocks. Who are you trying to impress? Article 153 is man-made, man-written, and man-changeable. Who knows if we continue to let UMNO Dictate the future of Malaysia, one day, UMNO might declare that Allah is a Malay??

Comments (10)..

written by NottyMaus, December 27, 2011 10:18:34

Thank you, John Doe for the nicest christmas present anyone would want.

And don't the Armnopukeks try to make it to the Borneo states upon the demise of the Pekmo man, else surely there will be a Malaykistan and the Republic of Borneo.

Abra-Ham-son-of Ali-the pig can go to hell; Article 153 only concerned the Borneo states; why hijack it for the cause of ketuanan dickies of Malaykistan ? ..

written by vhari, December 27, 2011 08:07:33

Iron smelting plants were found in Jeniang .It is mentioned that Hindusism spread from bujang valley to S.E.Asia nations .

Bujang valley is 1,000 sq.Km. that is 3 times the size of the Penang Island

Hindusim was brought in malaysia as far 1AD that is many-many hundreds years before even the prophert was born.

So I guess Beleive in God first was brought to the malays by the Hindus. ..

written by Jibby the Head, your C4 Friendly $upreme 1AiyahDollar Fuhrer, December 27, 2011 07:38:00

Read lah 1my Oafs 1My Qur'4n swearing pink pouting lip$

Of course Prophit Muhammad is a Malay - and I, your $upreme 1Leader, the son of God, if not GodAilan, Him$elf. All these discussions are techincal and frivolous, just surrender as resistance is futile. Wor$hip-lah 1Me with you ca$h, birkin bag and diamonds, then al-tantuyah lah you will be $aved... or else! $emua-nya OK! ..

written by Angela Ooi, December 27, 2011 07:21:31

Dear John Doe, I just love this witty n factual piece of writing, thanks n please do write more. So now the village idiots among the dUMNO Ketuanans n their 'Bodek-ass-lickers' should know there's nothing to crow about in the first damn place. ..

written by An Old Man, December 27, 2011 06:17:35

Someone mentioned somewhere about the Demak kingdom in Java. The founder was a Chinese, albeit of Muslim faith. He was instrumental in the Islamisation of Java.Both he and his son remain Indonesia's national heroes. But few Indonesians actually know this fact. Please read "The Early Kingdoms of the Indonesian Archipelago and Maly Peninsula" written by a French historian, whose name I cannot remember off-hand. (You can get it from Amazon.com.)

Many Cambodians are actually of the "Malay" stock, but they are predominantly Buddhist today. How ironical! Let's don't get too worked up over race arguments. Cantonese are 70% Han and 30% "Bai", but does this make them less Chinese? Only Chen Shui-bien thinks he is not a Chinese. Ditto Ridzuan Tee Abdullah. (He doesn't deserve the "Dr" honorific; in a more rigorous academic environment, his at best would be a third class honours material!!!) ..

written by Tompios, December 27, 2011 04:18:07

hulahula!! john doe, you are so amusing !

the real malay is minority stock based on what i read here. unfortunately, the word malays nowadays is merely a political agenda. can someone call this "neo-malay" as Yalam?

but wait, 45% malaysia income comes from oil? no wonder 95% for malay-sia and only 5% left to sabah. oh no! without the sense of right and wrong what more shame, 95% seems all alright to the core!! It is so embarrassing!! fault to sabahans and the sabahan's leaders! ball-pole's problem!! keep worshiping 95% taxes!!!! ..

written by Noble House, December 27, 2011 03:26:27

My dear John Doe,

You always have a way with words and your article almost always comes with the extra 'Oomph' that makes it so much easier for the digestive system. This is especially so with the case of having one too many 'halal' turkeys to contend with during Christmas. Interesting read here, John Boy! ..

written by lynn, December 27, 2011 01:13:21

JD,

Can you define "Ketuanan Melayu" in your own words here? I don't really understand what it means. Tuan means master but then my BM is poor. You shld watch Robin Hood 2010 starring Russell Crowe - it's got a good story - my lord... ..

written by Sribayu, December 26, 2011 23:49:59

The oldest mosque found in China was built about 1200 years ago while the oldest mosque found in Malay Polynesia was built 500 years ago (The one found in Demak Indonesia)

So.. That means that 1200 years ago, the Chinese people were the blessed people (for believing & accepting Allah and His revelations) while The Malay Tribes at that time were still in the middle of nowhere… perhaps they were "still “belum pakai baju dan sunat”.
Heheheh... Melayu jangan marah tau....! ..

written by earthman, December 26, 2011 22:37:19

Ha Ha ! Oh Yes , its the Malaysian Constipation alright. That is what happens when one suffers from chronic constipation. The toxic gases accumulates and transformed even Muhammad into a Malay?. What an amusing story here , John Doe.

But I don't believe this will be your last article. For I can see your fighting spirit to save Malaysia from the evil one. I have thought of that too after seeing the repeated issues and comments that brings Malaysians any benefits. It has become a ritual to condemn Umno Malays which actually brings no benefits unless the rest of the orang orang Melayu are deUmnoize. They need to be save first before Malaysia can be saved. This is a fact and all must repent and become the true man of God. Being Muslims , Christians , Hindus , Buddhists , Sikhs and .......... cannot save us and Malaysia unless we become men and women of God. That is we have compassion and love for others and the earth.

Funny how the Malay race and Muslims in Malaysia seems to be talking about survival, never about their racial and religious progression or development.........

2011-12-04T09:31:00.000-08:00

A comfortable victory could lead to the formation of a strong government, and hence, making it possible for any policy to defend Islam and the Malays, as well as the poor in rural areas, be implemented.

(Bernama) - Umno must not only ensure victory at the next general election, but must also ensure comfortable victory in order to preserve the sovereignty of Islam and the survival of the Malays in the country, said Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.

He said a comfortable victory could lead to the formation of a strong government, and hence, making it possible for any policy to defend Islam and the Malays, as well as the poor in rural areas, be implemented.

The BN government will have problems to draft and approve new laws if it fails to maintain the two-third majority in the next general election, he said when winding up the debate at Umno General Assembly 2011 here today.

He also expressed confidence that BN was capable to win the next general election as it had been the most credible and trusted government with proven track record and was willing to carry out transformation for the wellbeing of the people.

The government has also proved its ability to face the economic crises in 1997 without taking any loan from the International Monetary Fund, he said.

He said while the United States and European countries were facing global economic downturn, Malaysia, under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's leadership, had managed to record a Gross Domestic Product growth of 5.8 per cent in the third quarter this year.

Mohd Shafie, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, said Mara, an agency under the ministry, would also strive to increase the participation of young people in entrepreneurship, besides continue sponsoring excellent students to pursue their education abroad.

He also refuted the allegation that the prime minister was not fighting for the Malays, saying that Najib had approved an allocation of RM800 million for Mara students overseas, despite the initial application of RM500 million allocation made by Mara.

Comments (8)...

written by Stupid me, December 04, 2011 18:29:50

At this time of History, when a coloured man can become the President of the USA, this bloke is talking rubbish. Everyone should be equal. If he wants to be preserved with his AMNO comrades, why not build a supersize museum and preserved all of them there. ...

written by SiHangChai, December 04, 2011 14:08:14

Malaysians must vote to KICK BN UMNO forever. UMNO has been bullying MCA & MIC and other components. The country has seen today is slowly turning, from many of the implementations & rulings done, from a democratic country to a more secular Islamic country. I hold no grouses of this country declare Islam as its official religious but not practising it secularly in the law and that its Islamic-religion leaders from UMNO is practicing a double standard. Time to kick out UMNO but keep MCA, MIC, Gerakan dan other miniority BN parties from East Malaysia. Vote Pakatan- PKR, DAP & PAS for a change in 50 years. ...

written by Democrats, December 04, 2011 09:37:38

Funny how the Malay race and Muslims in Malaysia seems to be talking about survival, never about their racial and religious progression or development. That bad huh? Mind you that they are not even the minorities. They must become endangered species..... I heard of red Indians speaking about their survival in USa even the murud and minority Dayak sects speaking about it in Sarawak, but not from a race which constitutes more than half it's entire population, nor when it's religion is the national and official religion o f the c country...... ..

written by Alice, December 04, 2011 09:26:11

I am dead exhausted of hearing about Malays and Islam. Can't we just focus on what is right and wrong. Corruption is wrong and UMNO must GO

Cronysm is disgusting and UMNO must GO

Plundering the nations wealth for enriching oneself is unacceptable and UMNO must GO

Leaders without a conscience leads the nation to hell and so UMNO must disappear from the surface of earth. ...

written by truthbespoken, December 04, 2011 09:13:21

Racist misusing Islam through UMNO to incite fear of fellow Malaysians amongst Malays again! That's why UMNO and these racists must be booted out as the ruling government for the good of all Malaysians! These desperate bastards have nothing else new to offer Malaysians except racism and abusing Islam! ...

written by cheekhiaw, December 04, 2011 08:33:55

For 1,500 years every muslim thief that became the tuan of muslims had claimed that he was tuaning them for the sake of Islam. This thief is very different... ..

written by vhari, December 04, 2011 07:21:14

Shafie is wrong laws are passed with simple majority.

Now no 2/3 majority,but they have passed the assembly bill. ...

written by Nunudada, December 04, 2011 07:08:56

Shafie Apdal you are a racist bigot .You exemplify a person who lacks self confidence and knowledge.This combination has always been a recipe for disaster as far as politics is concerned.You are only interested in preserving your beauracratic abuses and protecting that of your flock mates.The whole bunch of you are corrupt without any doubt.You are all traitors of Malaysia because you have all abused the trust that was placed upon all of you by the people.

What’s the difference between Malays and Donkeys?

2011-11-12T20:40:00.000-08:00

There was a scientist who wanted to show the world that these beasts of burden were actually intelligent.
The day of the test he got the people together. One of the visitors suggested that it would be better to start with easy simple additions. So the scientist asked the donkeys:

- "What is the result of one and one?”
The donkeys smiled and one of them turned towards his neighbor and whispered:
-“Well, we know the result is two, but tell them it is 13 so that they know we are donkeys".

Unity comes naturally when there is a common shared perception. Indians do not have a common perception. Chinese do not have a common perception. And Malays do not have a common perception. Therefore unity is unnatural........ Calling people to unite is sheer stupidity..!!!!

Unless the Malays unite they are going to be reduced to a minority, said the one-time Prime Minister of Malaysia. The Indians are united into seven political parties. The Chinese are united into six political parties. But the Malays are divided into three political parties. And this is not good for the future of the Malays.

NO HOLDS BARRED

Raja Petra Kamarudin

1. We should not allow political freedom for students. Political freedom will threaten peace and unity, said the VC of UiTM. The most peaceful countries in the world are those that do not allow political freedom.

In fact, the most peaceful countries in the world are those that do not allow any freedom at all. Women cannot drive or leave the home unescorted. There are no general elections. Just one family runs the country and fills all the government posts. All the country’s wealth goes into the pockets of just one family and no one can question how they manage the country’s finances. These are the most peaceful countries in the world.

2. We should not allow gays in Malaysia. As the Mufti said, gays will eventually result in the entire population of the world getting wiped out. As it is, the world’s population has already been reduced to 7 billion and this may reduce even further if gays are allowed the freedom to practice their gay activities.

Unfortunately, Hitler did not succeed in wiping out all the gays as he had intended. If not, we would not be facing this problem of gays demanding rights and freedom and so on.

In fact, Jews are also dangerous, just like gays. The Jews were the ones who invented democracy. And those who support democracy are supporting gay rights. We must remember that the Jews also killed Jesus. So that makes them doubly dangerous.

3. Malaysians who live overseas should not be allowed to vote, said MCA. This is because when they live overseas they do not get to watch TV3 or RTM or NTV7 every night. So they do not know what is happening in Malaysia. Only those who watch TV3 or RTM or NTV7 every night will know what is happening in Malaysia.

If these Malaysians who live overseas and who do not watch TV3 or RTM or NTV7 every night are allowed to vote, they may vote for the wrong party. It is crucial, therefore, that only those who know who to vote for should be allowed to vote. If they do not know who to vote for they should not be allowed to vote.

4. Unless the Malays unite they are going to be reduced to a minority, said the one-time Prime Minister of Malaysia. The Indians are united into seven political parties. The Chinese are united into six political parties. But the Malays are divided into three political parties. And this is not good for the future of the Malays.

The Malays should be united into just one political party just like the Indians and Chinese who are united into seven and six political parties respectively. Only if the Malays are united into one political party will they have the political power and strength to discriminate, persecute and bully the other races and treat them as second-class citizens.

Comments (28)...

written by lynn, November 13, 2011 11:22:12

The mamak is evil, as bad as hillary clinton & Bush jr. More and more Malays are waking up and realising this country is riddled with corruption. Unfortunately, not many of them are against this practice because Malaysia has been managed by a Malay-dominated govt for 50 years. It is their own race who is involved & who made decisions. Malays will decide the future of Malaysia - bankruptcy before 2019 or Pakatan Rakyat takes over the federal govt in the next GE. It's your future, your kismet, you all decide if corruption shld be praised & supported: vote bn out or keep bn in power and suffer a dismal future. ...

written by panca, November 13, 2011 09:08:42

Motherchell, the can land has always been a perfect place of abuse for the perversion of power elites that spawned such great scum (alas wearing 'rounded hat' so-called deserving to them) spewing rubbish and it obviously says the product speaks for itself of the whole failed state of country affairs from what we have already a less than less desirable education system, quality personalities in this sector and facing an uphill battle 'injecting' the amount of right and resourceful education to the young, deprived, disillusioned and in particular, the just-believe-i-deserve type.

Yes we will say No to this colony of termites of our society even we are constantly being bitten to the last one standing while we continue to 'inject our rightful thoughts and infect with our rightful actions' for where and to those that perpetrate injustices must come to an end. The RPK syndrome is to fight injustice and hail justice for all and the beacon of hope is when the 'new' will wake up, walk and rise up together to shake and break this mind shackle from the handful deceitful political corrupted defacto 'rulers' of Putarjaya!

I have great respect for the round hat worn by farmers who toil with honesty. And the young will rise up from their state of complacency of mind shackle, a Malaysian ABnormality. ...

written by educationist, November 13, 2011 08:03:49

No, not UiTM only but the philosophy of all UMNOputras !! ...

written by JJFoo, November 13, 2011 07:16:15

They lied. These compulsive liars lied as if it's their job to lie. ...

written by Jibby the Head, your C4 Friendly $upreme 1AiyahDollar Fuhrer, November 13, 2011 05:35:24

Read lah my Oaf 1My Qur'4n swearing pink pouting lip$

Typical, Renegade PK trying to mislead the stupid rakyats.

1. RPK said that there is a "Philosophy as taught by Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM)". 1Moi must strongly protest that it is surprising that UiTm teaches anything much less philosophy. They are not supposed to teach, they are there to implement UMNO dictat. RPK is lying to imply that UiTM "teaches" something as haram as "philosophy". But just to humour this renegade let me elucidate to the more stupid of the rakyats by answering his accusations point by point:

"1. We should not allow political freedom for students." This is at best half truths. In fact UMNO would prefer not to allow anyone any freedom at all. RPK lied.

"2. We should not allow gays in Malaysia." Lies. We allow gays like Saiful in Malaysia and encourage them to be bisexuals. We do allow gays in Malaysian jails. Another lie by RPK

"3. Malaysians who live overseas should not be allowed to vote, said MCA." Lies, since when have we paid any attention to what the Melayu Cikens Ayam's fowl language? Further, most of the votes will be miscounted or discounted anyway, we are trying to save some money by not having to pay for these traitors who live overseas.

"4. Unless the Malays unite they are going to be reduced to a minority, said the one-time Prime Minister of Malaysia." Trying to mislead again. This so called one-time Prime Minister have been voted in many times by UMNO. Further, Malays are split into 3 parties, that's 2 party more than desired. By bringing other parties into the discussion RPK is trying to confuse the stupid rakyats. We are not talking about unity of other pendatang infidels, we are after all talking about the unity of master race. Anything less that 99% support is considered by your 1Fuhrer as a minority.

I hope as your El $upremo, the Beneficient and the Megamoneyous, I have enlighten you stupid minions. $emua-nya OK! ...

written by TaiLow, November 13, 2011 01:16:07

When FatMaMa also can be a chancellor dont expect a human-like vice-chancellor. ...

written by cpchen, November 12, 2011 23:58:43

This mamak still think that he still hold the call of the day, mind you, your glory day has gone far away, don't dream of putting your son as the PM in line, tsunami is waiting to hit you and your cronies, always take the lesson from Gadaffi. ...

written by Motherchell, November 12, 2011 23:15:30

my dear Panca,

I share your thoughts in this moment of literary "despair"!

Ive wondered what the future holds for the youth in Malaysia. There seems to be an absolute devastation to the minds of the young with knucklehead leaders of the 4th kind in the wrong places. As much as the coffers are plundered --so too is the intelligence to know what is true or farcical--- just to rule with an iron hand so that the ruling elites can enjoy the fruits till eternity. The flock--- who dream to see the light of the day are dimmed and bleak forever unless we make that change soon.

When the world has gone to great heights with the power of "thought"----human beings have looked to stars and to dreams; to animal entrails, mathematical models, and why galaxies are elongated as structure would never have formed in the universe.---- We have idiots in our bolehland society questioning our intelligence?? Should we allow them to survive?? The answer is "No"!!

---one example of a product of the system was seen on TV sometime back--- when a Malaysian was stuck in the riots in England and how the Malaysian Ambassador took him to face the cameras. The way that youth spoke and gestured was far from the class of grammar and vocab for an University educated brain.-and as the despots made political capital with their TV 3 broadcast. I wondered if the young chap could count -- let alone study accountancy. He was not aware that he was going to be the other pea in the pot of the unemployable unemployed.

With educators of the kind here with shining nova titles--- the destination is blurred and in shambles.

Educators as Tunku Aziz,, the former Transparency Int rep in Malaysia are forced into oblivion and silence by UMNO's autocratic agenda . What a wasted space for excellence. Its so very sad!!

To my dear Nanakassim,---- get your point, True! but I would never want to group and insult a cute mule or donkey as unintelligent. It was man who wrote a million fables as he needed a protagonist like a designation. The same way we get a plumber to repair pipes ---- so we use these cute " 4 legged professionals" to invigilate the scums as Latok and Loktors in the Ruling trash bins.

There is a story behind this dear,

There was a scientist who wanted to show the world that these beasts of burden were actually intelligent.

The day of the test he got the people together. One of the visitors suggested that it would be better to start with easy simple additions. So the scientist asked the donkeys:

- "What is the result of one and one?”

The donkeys smiled and one of them turned towards his neighbor and whispered:

-“Well, we know the result is two, but tell them it is 13 so that they know we are donkeys".

So ive placed Loktor Sahul as a single celled deformed retarded muttonhead scum!

Much regards and cheers to you both!! ...

written by hunkeyboy, November 12, 2011 22:45:30

now i begin to understand why UiTM teaches all its courses IN ENGLISH!

scholarship holders get to study overseas MOSTLY IN ENGLISH.

all other post-sec schoolers, other than those on Fathers' scholarships, continue undergrad studies NOT IN ENGLISH.

now, i do wonder why! ...

written by malsia1206, November 12, 2011 18:37:54

1. When I was very young, I was dumb, because I followed and joined the cries of 'Merdeka' 3 times with the late Tunku in 1957.

2. When I get older, I was dumber. Because I participated in the joyous celebration on 16th september 1963 on the formation of Malaysia federation.

3. During the late 1970s till the early 2000s, I was dumbest. Because I thought Tun Mahathir was the greatest PM this Nation ever have. He was not. In fact, I felt he was the very worst Malaysian ever to have walked on our soil.

In GE 13, I shall learn to be smart for once. Because I would know how to cast my vote in the ballot box finally with a very firm conviction. ...

written by rajram21, November 12, 2011 17:48:52

We must be careful, a dying animal will find all kinds of ways to lash out at the thing that hurt it...esp if it's a big animal which has been alive for a long time..it won't mati without a fight...will try to hold on to every second of its life.... ...

written by jacko2012, November 12, 2011 16:04:10

Shih Ming-te once said, the world is protecting the minority. Like Red Indian are protected by America's law. Malaysia is different, protecting majority. ...

written by Eskay345, November 12, 2011 14:02:03

What a load of shit, coming out of the foul mouths of some VVIP Malaysians.

This clearly shows the quality of some of our politicians who still think our citizens live in jungles or on tree-houses.

I think Mca leaders are wishing and hoping that the Chinese in the country and overseas don't vote in the GE so that the party will win back all the seats lost in GE-12. ...

written by Yen.CK, November 12, 2011 13:54:18

Money should be spent and not kept in bank because of low interest rate. This is especially true if you're in the cow business. ...

written by panca, November 12, 2011 12:15:28

Mothercell,

Nice and right illustration.

Btw, wonder how this people can get their dead brain cells out of their heads!

Is it incurable or to be exact are these people incurable? ...

written by nanakassim, November 12, 2011 11:31:38

Motherchell, your image is very confusing as it is not labelled. Please help by tagging which one of the donkeys is the mule. Thank you. ...

written by arazak, November 12, 2011 11:03:45

As days goes by, the UMNO regime philosophies are becoming more and more outrageous and comical!

These are signs of God will make them mad before they die! ..

written by vhari, November 12, 2011 10:48:07

Change the name Seksuality Merderka to Manusia masalah hormone egs.

written by vhari, November 12, 2011 10:44:44

I agree with alice,

'Seksuality Merderka" overtones negative feelings.

Eg.Manusia masalah hormone ...

written by earthman, November 12, 2011 10:15:24

Under these Malay philosophers and holy man , The world learned new meaning of freedom, human rights, communication, and unity. Suddenly we realized that peace means no protests or criticism. Human rights means the rights to persecute others not like us. Communication and learning means what RTM, NTV7, TV3 said is all true. and unity means power to steal and persecute the minorities. ...

written by temenggong, November 12, 2011 08:53:36

Often we hear people calling for their community to be united. This is a mindless thing to do. These are mindless people. People most naturally gravitate towards any grouping that represents their interests. This is a logical thing to do. Calling people to unite is sheer stupidity.

Unity comes naturally when there is a common perception. Indians do not have a common perception. Chinese do not have a common perception. And Malays do not have a common perception. Therefore unity is unnatural.

Managing varied opinions and interests is what is best, and BN is a master of this, and that is why they have ruled so far. Pakatan has proven itself horribly incapable of managing and honouring various interests, and that is why they will not win GE 13.

Strength does not come from unity. Strength comes from leadership. Now, BN does not have it. And Pakatan does not have it at all. ...

written by Alice, November 12, 2011 08:46:53

The whole truth nothing but the truth and very well said RPK. You have the power to change the world.

The other day I had to attend a function and an UMNO assemblyman was guest of honour. And so it was his turn to give a speech. Dreading it, I forced myself to pay attention. And so he went on and on about the importance of acquiring knowledge....blah ...blah ...blah knowledge is power.....and then suddenly he talked about Sexuality Merdeka. Boy did he get my attention on that. He said that it is rather sad that sometimes knowledgeable people are not really that smart either coz they support free sex. He was refering to the supposedly learned people behind sexuality merdeka. The poor guy was saddened by the involvement of educated ppl in this cause. I think the term sexuality merdeka ought to be changed so something more suitable and appropriate. This is Malaysialah and the minute people like him (and there are loads of them ) see such a term, they think it is all about encouraging freeeee sex and so this is Unlslamic!! Maybe the organizers should come up with a better name/term .... something a little bit softer and spiritual and caring which would not allow this group of ppl to attack. "Insan ciptaan tuhan yang terpinggir". With a name like"Seksualiti Merdeka" this UMNO dumbos will manipulate the word sex and merdeka and he did manage to get the whole crowd to agree with him and they seem to be on his side. ...

written by hellosunshine, November 12, 2011 08:09:01

RPK, who says you are cheong hei (long winded)? This piece is KISS (keep it short and sweet) and damn funny but alas, too true. I wonder who is more stupid, these lanuns or the voters who keep voting them in?..

written by vhari, November 12, 2011 06:21:01

It is good for the country if malays are united..Somebody must call a congress of malay meeting to find out why malays are disunited. ...

written by malchindian, November 12, 2011 05:42:08

Thank you for the succinct points on bumno's psychological tricks.

The likes of kuthy, csl etc survive beyond expiration dates because of their skills in manipulating minds.

Shake that bumno bull**** out of your minds and wake up!

ABU! ..

written by vhari, November 12, 2011 05:33:37

Malays,Chinese,Indians and others must unite against corruption. ...

written by NottyMaus, November 12, 2011 03:12:42

Hahahhahaaha !! R

This is so funny my fart was coming in loud bangs !!!! Pow-pow-pow !!! ...

written by Motherchell, November 12, 2011 03:00:05

Dr !@#&hole i presume??????

Canland's genius !!Eureka---eat your heart out Ziggy Freud !!!!!!!!

"No matter how noble the objectives of a government, if it blurs decency and kindness, cheapens human life and breeds ill will and suspicion – it is an evil government" - Eric Hoffer, The Passionate State of Mind 1954

2011-11-12T19:58:00.000-08:00

Undergraduates told to become creator of transformation

Daniel John Jambun

I must say I am very irritated by a little-noticed news story published in your esteemed paper last October 27, titled “Undergraduates told to become creator of transformation.” It was as a report of a speech by the Prime Minister delivered by Datuk Seri Hishamuddin Tun Hussein at the closing of the Prime Minister’s Trophy Debate between students of institutions of higher learning at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) in Kuala Lumpur on October 22.

In that speech the PM outlined five major aspects to be played by undergraduates in the country’s development, including becoming creators of transformation “instead of spreading controversies.” He said “undergraduates must become solvers instead of causing disasters besides becoming lovers of knowledge instead of becoming dream merchants.” At this point my patience ran out.

How is it possible for young people not to create controversies in the pursuit of change, in the effort to transform the Malaysian society? What if the social or political situation is so bad that they have to voice their opposition to what are being practiced? How are they going to transform society if they are just puppets trying to follow and join what is going on, for better or for worse?

And what does the PM mean by causing disasters, becoming lovers of knowledge instead of becoming dream merchants?

These are all conflicting concepts! We must all be dream merchants, selling our dreams to transform the Malaysian society into becoming a great example for other countries.

How can we be lovers of knowledge and then don’t apply them and just support the government even if it is doing a lot of things wrong? Is that causing disasters? No! That is changing a bad system, and that is the very purpose of the democratic system under a constitutional monarchy that we enjoy in Malaysia . Najib himself had said that the age when the government is supposed to know everything is over. Very often, the new generation knows what they want for their country’s future, and they want to dismantle old and outdated systems that are making our administration obsolete.

Najib also said that the young people shouldn’t “become merely vendors of empty stories just to gain sympathy in continuing the personal agendas of certain groups” and then admitted that “We all know the voice and ideas of the young generation today, particularly the undergraduates, must be taken as the best capital which will drive the country’s development.” What he seems to be saying is that students shouldn’t try to be politicians but they are the ones with the best ideas to drive the country forward. That’s another contradiction in terms.

As I see it, the ideas of the younger generation cannot be stopped or controlled by the current crop of government leaders. It’s way too late for that. The young people know what they want for their country, for their children and grandchildren and they have been too much exposed and educated through observations of developments in other countries to be so easily influenced by sweet talks from their leaders.

Najib said in the same speech, “At the very least, they can act as an effective reciprocal instrument for all the government policies and plans” which to me meant that he expect all undergraduates should reciprocate (react positively to show gratitude). This means they shouldn’t oppose or criticize. But, again, what if the policies and plans are wrong and against the interests of undergraduates like the provision in the Universities and University Colleges Act which prohibits students form becoming involved in politics?

The best way is to have the dialogues open from both sides, with the government being receptive to criticism and not just expecting support for everything it does. If the government cannot tolerate criticism from the younger generation, the country’s forward move will be stalled, and the opposition will have even more reasons to want to change the government.

Comments (5)...

written by cheekhiaw, November 13, 2011 09:37:10

Kalau nak mereka belajar buat transformasi, panggil anak2 universiti itu debat macam mana negara boleh dimusnahkan kalau dituan pencuri... ...

written by educationist, November 13, 2011 08:14:01

'..in your esteemed paper.." - one of the prostitute MSM media no less!!

Coming from Najib, what else can one expect!!

He wants to emasculate the young generation to the chains and ropes the UMNOputras have strung round the rakyat!!

Like that eunuch of his, who's the UiTM VC, he does not want the young generation to be imbued with the spirit of freedom , to question what is not right or proper but to just toe the line!! ...

written by flyer168, November 13, 2011 01:02:04

Just to share this...

"Of liberty I would say that, in the whole plenitude of its extent, it is unobstructed action according to our will.

But rightful liberty is unobstructed action according to our will within limits drawn around us by the equal rights of others.

I do not add 'within the limits of the law,' because law is often but the tyrant's will, and always so when it violates the right of an individual - Thomas Jefferson

The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education - Martin Luther King, Jr.

I am not interested in power for power's sake, but I'm interested in power that is moral, that is right and that is good - Martin Luther King, Jr.

"No matter how noble the objectives of a government, if it blurs decency and kindness, cheapens human life and breeds ill will and suspicion – it is an evil government" - Eric Hoffer, The Passionate State of Mind 1954

"The raison d’?tre for any nation is the rule of law, justice and freedom for the people" - John Quincy Adams:

You be the judge.

Shalom. ...

written by SoundMan, November 12, 2011 21:21:21

This Prime Minister Najib with no mandate from the people, is saying, "stick to 1+1=2 no more no less". He says, NO to thoughts, probabilities, potentials, opportunities and ideas that can transform human lives.

What Najib wants are "kwai, kwai" students, don't think beyond the rice bowl. ...

written by onnetline, November 12, 2011 20:50:53

Daniel John Jambun, it's never too late to understand or know what hypocrites or liars look like. More importantly, do you need these so called ' leaders ' to continue to represent you .. ? If not, tell your friends, family or anyone you know to vote them out .......... comes the next election !

Kecik2 jaga lembu..............

2011-11-10T10:28:00.000-08:00

“ What is the equivalent of one RM10 million luxury condominium to number of units of low-cost apartment for the rakyat............?????” “You’re supposed to buy cows, but you bought a RM10 mllion condo...!!!" ...LEMBU PUNYA SUSU, SOMEBODY DAPAT CONDO....A new Malay proverb...!! It's cool.......

2011-11-10T10:16:00.000-08:00

By Teoh El Sen, FMT

SHAH ALAM: A report has been filed with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) over the RM10 million luxury condominium allegedly purchased with money from the National Feedlot Centre (NFC), run by a minister’s family.

The report was lodged with MACC’s Selangor office here by PKR-linked NGO, Jingga 13.

“Jingga 13 urges MACC to immediately investigate this serious finding and the attorney-general to charge and bring those involved in betraying the trust of the rakyat to justice,” said its chief coordinator Fariz Musa.

Fariz alleged that PKR has solid evidence to show that the family of Women, Family and Community Development Minister Shahrizat Abdul Jalil, who allegedly holds the majority of shares in NFC, is linked to the buying of the said condominium (One Menerung) in Bangsar.

“On Dec 2, 2009, NFC made four money transfers from its current account at CIMB Bank, Taman Tun Dr Ismail to Bandar Raya Developments Bhd as a full payment to purchase the One Menerung condominium,” he said.

Fariz said the four transfers were: RM699,870, RM694,150, RM4,199,220, RM4,164,900; and the total amounted to RM9,758,140.

‘We have to protect our source’

Asked if Jingga 13 brought with it supporting documents for MACC, Fariz said that Jingga 13 has to protect its source, who he claimed is reliable.

He also said that Jingga 13 has no details of how many units were purchased but revealed that the units in One Menerung ranged from RM3 million to over RM10.3 million, depending on the unit sizes.

“This payment of almost RM9.8 million was recorded as “hutang” (debt) from National Meat and Livestocks Corporation Sdn Bhd (NMLC), which is also owned by Shahrizat’s family, to NFC,” he added.

He alleged that this sum of almost RM9.8 million was part of the RM83 million owed by NMLC to NFC as of Dec 31, 2009. He also alleged that the sum was part of the RM250 million soft loan given by the government to NFC.

“This payment for a luxury condominium on behalf of another company that is fully owned by Shahrizat’s family is a form of misappropriation of the rakyat’s money which was given as a loan to NFC. This is a form of criminal breach of trust,” he said.

“You’re supposed to buy cows, but you bought a condo. There is no basis, whatsoever, for NFC to purchase a condominium and it is clearly a gross misuse of power,” said Fariz, adding that Jingga 13 visited the condominium but could not obtain further information as they were chased out by security.

Fariz said the latest information also disproves the statements by Umno leaders on the NFC issue, and those who manipulated and distorted facts must be brought to book.

Comments (8)...

written by abdras, November 11, 2011 00:48:10

Don't you worry Shahrizat, MACC will "investigate" and pass the report over to AG Gani

who will stamp your file NFA. Meanwhile you can start "acting" showing your distress over this

unfounded allegation, and warn, or rather threaten, of legal action against those making the

allegations. To proclaim your innocence, consult Najib the PAKAR SUMPAH, on how to sumpah

to make your statement credible

Mami Sharizat, being an UMNO member, you are untouchable. But if you were in the opposition

you would end up just like TBH and Sarbani, who were not involved in corruption, and yet

grilled to death based merely on hearsay. ...

written by hunkeyboy, November 10, 2011 23:25:44

macc, where are you? don't need to wait cos you will have to wait until the cows come home.

complete waste of time expecting macc to investigate any such cases involving umno -- like expecting the son to take action against the mother.

ah, but if there is any silly report by clowns like perkasa or any of those rubbish umno-linked ngo's just marvel at the speed of movement of macc! like flash gordon man. sometimes even WITHOUT any police report, they move.

why? why this so blatantly biased treatment?

we the people must take charge, clear out the rubbish and put the nation back on a righteous path for the people. ...

written by cpchen, November 10, 2011 20:57:06

Really shocking...Malaysia Boleh................MACC where are you, pls freeze those ill gotten assets. ..

written by EDLYK, November 10, 2011 19:18:36

Lembu jadi Condo. ...

written by vhari, November 10, 2011 17:59:13

If condo for lembu means lembu is sacred ...

written by cheekhiaw, November 10, 2011 17:25:14

itu condo untuk lembu susu bernama sharizat? ...

written by mick_err_stan, November 10, 2011 17:23:52

Bloody Fool Bastards! The Katak has become a mouse while the rest of the UMNO elite are suffering from Mad Cow Disease by protecting each other and screwing the Rakyat. SIAL BETUL Gomen Ini! ...

written by Kaneeneh, November 10, 2011 16:05:27

Biasalah. Ini negara, mesti ambil sebelum diambil. Najib Ambil, Mujahidin ambil, Hisap ambil, apa itu, Mahathir pun masih ambil.

Ni Pompuan ambil sikit -sikit, kena beceh-beceh.

Nicol David…..A Truly Icon of 1Malaysia and Global Champion!!

2011-11-10T07:18:00.000-08:00

Friday November 4, 2011

Nicol in Hall of Fame

By AFTAR SINGH

ROTTERDAM: Nicol David will receive the ultimate recognition when she is inducted into the World Squash Federation (WSF) Hall of Fame here tomorrow.

The 28-year-old from Penang, who is going for a record sixth crown at the World Open this week, will be inducted by Tunku Imran Tuanku Jaafar (pic), the WSF Patron and IOC member who is himself a former national squash champion.

Nicol rules supreme in the women’s game and has already achieved legendary status. After becoming the first ever double winner of the biennial world junior title in 2001, she went on to begin an unbroken reign at the top of the world rankings from August, 2006. She is now the second longest-standing world number one of all-time behind Australia’s Susan Devoy, who reigned for 105 months.

Nicol already has 55 Women’s International Squash Players Association (Wispa) titles and equalled the five world titles won by her mentor Sarah Fitz-Gerald.

She has almost single-handedly put Malaysia on the world squash map through her achievements and, earlier this year, won a record eighth national sportswoman of the year award.

Legendary status: Nicol David is now the second longest-standing world No. 1 of all time behind Australia’s Susan Devoy.

Nicol captured the first of her three Asian Games gold medals in 1998, aged just 15, and, in April this year, claimed her eighth successive Asian Championship in Penang.

“It’s great to be recognised in this way while I am still a player and have my achievements compared with the best players the game has seen,” said Nicol. “It’s truly fantastic and I am really honoured.

“But this does not mean I am ready to ride off into the sunset. I am far from finished even though I have been playing the professional circuit for over 10 years.”

Nicol intends to prove just that by bagging her sixth world crown on Sunday.

Related Story:

Nicol tames Egyptian qualifier to reach last eight

________________________________________

© 1995-2011 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd (Co No 10894-D)

Sunday November 6, 2011

Duncalf stands in Nicol’s path towards greatness

By AFTAR SINGH

ROTTERDAM: Nicol David is now just match away of winning her record sixth world title.

The Penangite defeated Dutch veteran Natalie Grinham 11-9, 11-4, 11-6 to seal a place in the final of the World Squash Championships at the Luxor Theatre here yesterday.

The partisan crowd cheered for the Australian-born Natalie, who is married to Dutchman Tommy Berden, the tournament director.

But that did not stop the Amsterdam-based Nicol from working her magic and winning the match in straight sets.

Final hurdle: England’s Jenny Duncalf takes on Malaysia’s Nicol David in the World Squash Championships final today.

The 28-year-old Nicol, who is in top form and has yet to drop a set in four matches, will face world No. 2 Jenny Duncalf for a place in the final.

Nicol started off well to take a 6-3 lead in the first set. But a lapse in concentration allowed Natalie to catch up and go 9-7 up.

The world No. 1 seems to thrive on pressure and she conjured up some excellent shots to collect four straight points for the opening set win.

The Malaysian took the second set easily. Not only did Natalie make unforced errors, she also hit her shots into the tin five times.

Four-time finalist Natalie gave it a real go in the third set but Nicol was just a class above.

Nicol said it felt great to have beaten Natalie in straight sets.

“It was a close first set ... Natalie played really well. It was important for me to win the first set and I had to bring out my best,” said Nicol, who now hopes to create history by winning her sixth world title.

“I hope to go one better than my mentor Sarah (Fitz-Gerald), who is the five-time world champion.

“But I can expect a strong challenge from Jenny, who will be going all to beat me for her first world title.”

Duncalf too had no problems ousting world No. 17 Samantha Teran of Mexico 11-9, 11-4, 11-7 in an earlier semi-final.

For the record, Nicol has met Duncalf 21 times – with the Malaysian winning 19 of those matches.

Their last meeting saw Nicol winning in straight sets in the final of Australian Open in August.

This will be the first time Nicol will be meeting Duncalf in the final of the world meet.

Duncalf was pleased as punch to have reached the final of the world meet for the first time.

“I am looking forward to giving my best in the final. I had a good match against Samantha and I believe I can play much better in the final,” said Duncalf.

Teran, who stunned 2007 world champion and world No. 5 Rachael Grinham of Australia in the second round, was also happy with her overall performance.

“I am the first Mexican player to have reached the semi-finals. I gave my best against Jenny but she was just too good,” said Teran, who is also based in Amsterdam.

Results

MEN

Quarter-finals: Nick Matthew (Eng) bt Peter Barker (Eng) 6- 11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-5; Karim Darwish (Egy) bt David Palmer (Aus) 11-9, 11-7, 11-1; James Willstrop (Eng) bt Amr Shabana (Egy) 11-8, 11-2, 11-13, 11-1; Gregory Gaultier (Fra) bt Ramy Ashour (Egy) 11-8, 11-1, 1-0 (rtd).

WOMEN

Quarter-finals: Nicol David (Mas) bt Kasey Brown (Aus) 11- 7, 12-10, 11-4; Natalie Grinham (Hol) bt Low Wee Wern (Mas) 11-7, 11-7, 11-5; Samantha Teran (Mex) bt Dipika Pallikal (Ind) 11-6, 11-8, 11-9; Jenny Duncalf (Eng) bt Laura Massaro (Eng) 11-9, 11-7, 11-7.

Semi-finals: Nicol David (Mas) bt Natalie Grinham (Hol) 11-9, 11-4, 11-6; Jenny Duncalf (Eng) bt Samantha Teran (Mex) 11-9, 11-4, 11-7.

________________________________________

© 1995-2011 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd (Co No 10894-D)

Monday November 7, 2011

Nicol claims her record sixth world title in emphatic style

By AFTAR SINGH

ROTTERDAM: Nicol David created history by winning her sixth world title in emphatic fashion at the Luxor Theatre here yesterday with the promise of more to come.

The undisputed queen of world squash was in devastating form as she pulverised long-time rival and world No. 2 Jenny Duncalf of England 11-2, 11-5, 11-0 in just 29 minutes in the final of the World Open.

It was a perfect six for Nicol – six wins from six finals at the world meet, making her the most successful woman player in the history of the game.

Ruthless: Malaysia’s Nicol David (right) returning a shot to England’s Jenny Duncalf during their World Open squash final in Rotterdam Sunday. — AFP

She had earlier shared the honour, five titles apiece, with her mentor Sarah FitzGerald of Australia.

The triumph is the latest narrative in the storied life of Malaysia’s greatest sports star. The 28-year-old Nicol, who turned pro in 2000, won her other world titles in Hong Kong (2005), Belfast, Northern Ireland (2006), Manchester (2008), Amsterdam (2009) and Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, last year.

The world crown yesterday was also Nicol’s 56th Wispa title and ninth of the year.

It was her 27th win over Duncalf in 29 meetings. Nicol received US$21,188 while Duncalf pocketed US$13,656.

Nicol, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame on Saturday for her outstanding accomplishments, got off to a flying start in the first set winning 11-2 in just nine minutes.

Nicol David celebrates with her trophy after winning the final squash match against England's Jenny Duncalf during the World Open, at the Luxor Theater in Rotterdam on Sunday.

Duncalf, featuring in her first final, was out of sorts and completely outplayed in every aspect of the game.

In the second set, Nicol playing in her 10th world meet, took a comfortable 8-3 lead before dropping just two points to seal victory.

A deflated Duncalf just melted under Nicol’s relentless attack and meekly surrendered the third 11-0.

An elated Nicol said she didn’t quite know how to describe her joy in winning her record sixth world title.

“Winning the crown is a huge thing for Malaysia as we don’t have many world champions in sports,” said Nicol, whose parents Desmond and Mary Ann were in Rotterdam to watch their daughter make history.

“I’m really happy to repay my fellow Malaysians for all their support by winning the world title for them.

“My only wish now is to play in the Olympics. I would happily trade my six world titles for the sport to be included in the Olympic Games,” said Nicol, adding that she wasn’t done winning titles yet - not by a long shot.

A disheartened Duncalf said that she had been totally outclassed by Nicol.

“I was hoping to win the final as an early birthday present but it was not to be,” said Duncalf, who turns 29 on Thursday.

In the men’s competition, world No. 1 Nick Matthew of England retained the world title after coming back from a set down to beat sixth seed Gregory Gaultier of France 6-11, 11-9, 11-6, 11-5 in the final.

Matthew received US$26,220 for his efforts while Gaultier took home US$16,388.

Results

Men

Semi-finals: Nick Matthew (Eng) bt Karim Darwish (Egy) 11-9,11-9, 11-1; Gregory Gaultier (Fra) bt James Willstrop (Eng) 11-6, 11-8, 11-4.

Final: Nick Matthew (Eng) bt Gregory Gaultier (Fra) 11-9, 11-6, 11-5

Women

Semi-finals: Nicol David (Mas) bt Natalie Grinham (Hol)

11-9, 11-4, 11-6; Jenny Duncalf (Eng) bt Samantha Teran (Mex) 11-9, 11-4, 11-7.

Final: Nicol David (Mas) bt Jenny Duncalf (Eng) 11-2, 11-5,11-0.

________________________________________

© 1995-2011 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd (Co No 10894-D)

Published: Sunday November 6, 2011 MYT 10:05:00 PM

Nicol wins record sixth world crown

ROTTERDAM: World No. 1 Nicol David created history by outplaying long-time rival and world No. 2 Jenny Duncalf of England to become the first woman player to win a record six world championship squash titles at the Luxor Theatre here on Sunday.

Nicol played superbly to win 11-2, 11-5, 11-0 in just 29 minutes.

It was her sixth appearance in the final of the world championships and she has won all now.

The Malaysian is the first Women’s International Squash Players Association (Wispa) player to win six world titles, since the inception of the tournament in 1976.

The 28-year-old Nicol, who turned pro in 2000, won her other world titles in Hong Kong (2005), Belfast (2006), Manchester (2008), Amsterdam (2009) and Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt last year.
________________________________________

© 1995-2011 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd (Co No 10894-D)

Wednesday November 9, 2011

Zulfadli must emulate Nicol’s way to success

IT was a proud moment for the country when Zulfadli Zulkifli was crowned junior world badminton champion in Taipei on Sunday.

He is the first Malaysian to win that singular honour but, more than a record breaking feat, his exploit has opened up a new facet in Malaysian badminton – that an independent player can survive and make it to the top.

Unlike the others, Zulfadli is neither a product of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) centralised training programme nor the Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS), proving that one does not have to be part of the system to be successful in sport. He is not even on National Sports Council (NSC) payroll.

Zulfadli has many individual sponsors to thank for his meterioc rise. He trained with the Selangor Badminton Association (SBA) before switching to Kuala Lumpur BA in his younger days,

He then join professional club KLRC in 2007 and that is where his game really took off. He was given plenty of international exposure and a platform to soar for which he will always be grateful.

This, his breakthrough year, saw him bag the Asian junior title in Lucknow, India, before his crowning glory at the world meet in Taipei. It showed, above all else, that a club player can co-exist with the national body and win honours for the country.

This partnership, or healthy rivalry if you would have it, should be left alone to thrive in the present eco-system of the sport for several reasons.

Not only will it keep the BAM on their toes but it will discourage them from getting too autocratic or complacent. It will certainly make them re-evaluate their singles coaching programme as they will not want to be overshadowed by the clubs. This will work to the benefit of the game.

Zulfadli’s victory also proves that an independent player can share the burden, mission and vision of the BA of Malaysia. More clubs should be inspired by his win as it proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that the national association can, and must, co-exist with the clubs to nurture and produce champions.

China, Denmark and South Korea have a prolific production line of talent because of their dynamic club system which complements the efforts of the national associations.

In a way, the 18-year-old Zulfadli has revolutionised Malaysian badminton - opening up new boundaries and possibilities in the sport.

The challenge now is not allowing anything to distract him as he takes his game to the highest level.

He must stay grounded and not let success go to his head. This is not the right time to shower him with showy rewards or turn his head. Zulfadli deserves praise for his achievements but let us not overdo it and spoil him. We have seen what that does to our sportsmen.

Zulfadli has his father, who is also his coach, to guide him away from the pitfalls of success. But success is a fickle and cruel mistress, who will seduce you with false promises - coddle you one minute and spurn you the next.

The sponsors will be lining up to cash in on his moment of fame, but Zulfadli must learn to recognise the imposters from the genuine article.

He has the perfect role model to look up to. On the same day that Zulfadli lived his dream, Malaysia’s squash darling Nicol David gave an astounding show of power to win her sixth world title - underlining her reign as the most successful player in her sport.

The former world junior champion has not allowed the trappings of success to spoil her. She has remained committed and grounded, that is why she is still on top of her game and the world after 11 years as a professional.

At 28, and having won everything there is to win in squash, Nicol remains hungry for more glory. That is the hallmark of a true, and enduring, champion.

Zulfadli must emulate Nicol if he is to be a world beater and not fall by the wayside like so many others before him who excelled at junior level only to fail when it mattered.

Maybe then he can achieve what Nicol never will - an Olympic gold medal, perhaps at the Rio de Janeiro Games in 2016.

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© 1995-2011 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd (Co No 10894-D)

Tuesday November 8, 2011

‘Queen’ Nicol deserves every support from Govt

IT made me proud of Malaysia when I read of the achievements of Zulfadli Zulkifli and Nelson Heg Wei Keat-Teo Ee Yi (world junior singles and boys’ doubles champions in badminton) and Datuk Nicol David (her sixth world squash title). Syabas to all of them!

However, I wish to express my disappointment with our Government’s response to all the achievements of Datuk Nicol David. Based on her outstanding track record I would consider her the best and most accomplished Malaysian sportsperson ever!

I believe it is time that the Government, in recognition of her achievements and in the true spirit of 1Malaysia, reward her appropriately. She should be provided every support by our Government to continue with her winning ways!

She has brought our country such fame and recognition in squash.

Congratulations again to Datuk Nicol David. Do us proud with many more world titles.

Dr ABED ONN,

Subang Jaya.

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© 1995-2011 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd (Co No 10894-D)

World champion Nicol vows to keep on breaking records

Tuesday November 8, 2011

World champion Nicol vows to keep on breaking records

By AFTAR SINGH

ROTTERDAM: The past few days have been a dream for Nicol David and she has had more than her share of priceless moments.

First, the squash legend from Penang, who has been based in Amsterdam since 2003, was inducted into her sport’s Hall of Fame on Saturday for her amazing accomplishments.

A day later, the long reigning world No. 1 created history by winning a record sixth world title - the first woman to do so in the 35-year history of the championships.

Moving forward: With the world title under her belt, Nicol David will now go for a record sixth Hong Kong Open title this month.

Nicol has won all the major tournaments her sport has to offer and no other Malaysian athlete comes close to matching her achievements – 56 titles and still counting.

What was really amazing is the way she played in the final, pummelling world No. 2 Jenny Duncalf of England into submission in straight sets - 11-2, 11-5, 11-0 - in just 29 minutes. Such was her domination that Duncalf simply surrendered.

The 28-year-old Nicol, who has been the world No. 1 since August 2006, said that the win over Duncalf was the pinnacle of her professional career which began in 2000.

“It was my best performance to date. I didn’t want anyone else, but me, to put their hands on the trophy,” she said.

“Winning was great and the record means the world to me,” said Nicol, who surpassed the previous milestone of five titles she jointly held with her mentor, Australian Sarah FitzGerald.

But far from being satisfied, Nicol is hungry for even more success and plans to play on for another five to seven years. That is bad news for her rivals.

“I hope to stay injury-free and win many more tournaments. Per¬haps even a few more world titles so that nobody can overhaul my record,” she said with a glint in her eye.

Nicol’s 56 Wispa titles put her level with former world champion Michelle Martin of Australia. She now wants to beat FitzGerald’s record of 62 to seal her reputation as the best player in the history of the game.

That should be a breeze if Nicol keeps playing like she did in Rotter¬dam. And given her insatiable appetite for records, it will be some time yet before the final chapter of the Nicol David legend is written.

“Winning always feels good. But the pressure is mounting as there are several young players beginning to make their mark. The Egyptian girls have plenty of potential and are a real threat,” said Nicol.

“I have to work two to three times harder to stay on top. I will continue training in Amsterdam under coach Liz Irving as it has been a highly successful arrangement.

Nicol’s only regret is that she will not be able to add an Olympic gold medal to her impressive collection of trophies.

“It’s a pity that the IOC (Inter¬na¬tion¬al Olympic Committee) have not deem¬ed it fit to include squash in the Games,” lamented Nicol, who won the world junior title in 1999 and 2001.

She has also won the World Games title twice - Duisburg, Germany, in 2005, and Kaohsiung, Taiwan, in 2009 - and bagged three British Open titles - in 2005, 2006 and 2008.

Nicol is the first Malaysian to win the Commonwealth Games squash gold medal - at New Delhi last year - and has won eight Asian championships and three Asian Games -1998, 2006 and last year - gold medals.

She has also won the Wispa’s Player of the Year award five times since 2006.

That is a giddy list of achievements by any standard and Nicol is taking a well-deserved break after her Rotter¬dam high. She is going on a Roman holiday with her parents Desmond and Mary Ann.

“My parents have never been to Rome and I need a rest after winning the world title,” said Nicol, whose next last assignment of the year is the Hong Kong Open starting on Nov 15.

She will be gunning for another record in Hong Kong too – her sixth consecutive title.

Nicol’s male counterpart, Nick Matthew also lived up to his top ranking in the world championships. Matthew beat Gregory Gaultier of France 6-11, 11-9, 11-6, 11-5 to win the crown for the second time on Sunday.
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© 1995-2011 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd (Co No 10894-D)

Friday November 4, 2011

Nicol tames Egyptian qualifier to reach last eight

ROTTERDAM: World No. 1 Nicol David faced some resistance from young Egyptian qualifier Nour El Sherbini before reaching the quarter-finals of the World Squash Championships at Luxor Theatre here yesterday.

The 28-year-old Penangite, who is based in Amsterdam, won 11-7, 11-6, 11-7 in 32 minutes.

Nicol, who won the Wispa best player award for the fifth time, faces her first real challenge when she meets her nemesis, sixth seed Kasey Brown of Australia, in the quarter-finals.

Brown, who upset Nicol in the quarter-finals of the United States Open in Philadelphia last month, came back from a set down to edge 11th seed Raneem El Weleily of Egypt 4-11, 11-7, 11-3, 6-11, 11-8.

Nicol was glad to beat Sherbini, who upset world No. 13 Donna Urquhart of Australia in the first round, in straight sets.

“She is one talented player who plays well beyond her 16 years,” said Nicol. “She has good shots but I made sure that I controlled the court and the game. It’s going to be a great battle against Kasey. I will have to raise my game and stay focused if I am to beat her.”

World No. 17 Samantha Teran scored the biggest win of her career when she came back from a set down to stun 2007 champion and world No. 5 Rachael Grinham of Australia 4-11, 11-2, 11-3, 12-10 in 53 minutes.

Teran will face India’s Dipika Pallikal for a place in the semi-finals. Qualifier Kanzy El Dafrawy’s fine run ended at the hands of Dipika who won 11-6, 11-7, 11-7.

World No. 2 Jenny Duncalf of England beat Joelle King of New Zealand 11-8, 7-11, 11-1, 11-3 and will square off against countrywoman Laura Massaro, who upset her in the semi-finals of the US Open last month.

Meanwhile, two-time former world champion David Palmer just got the better of fellow 35-year-old Thierry Lincou in a stunning and thrilling third round match on Wednesday.

The Australian beat the Frenchman 11-9, 3-11, 11-8, 6-11, 11-9 in a contest of remarkable courage and endurance between the two oldest men on the tour, and with such tremendous rallies that it brought the crowd to its feet several times.

Related Stories:

Nicol in Hall of Fame_______________________________________

© 1995-2011 Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd (Co No 10894-D)

If we were to read history of FRENCH REVOLUTION and BOLSHEVIK REVOLUTION, we shall anticipate better that Malaysia will become a republic sooner that expected...........long live PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF MALAYSIA..!!!!

2011-11-10T02:15:00.000-08:00

In July the Sultan of Selangor ordered assemblymen to pass amendments giving him more power over Islamic affairs.

“The Sultan is supposed to act on the advice of the state government, not the other way around. Even in the matters of Islam and Malay culture, the Sultan has to act on the advice of the state administration. We didn’t want to fight the palace, we had respect for the palace. We let it pass.”

Patrick Lee, Free Malaysia Today

Selangor state assemblymen are seeing red with what appears to be royal intervention in the running of the State Legislative Assembly.

In July, every state assemblyman allegedy received a letter from Sultan Sharafudin Idris Shah, commanding them to agree to amendments that would supposedly give the Ruler more power over Islamic affairs.

Pakatan Rakyat state assemblymen suspect that the hand of Umno was behind the move, which they say could have led to a constitutional crisis.

One, who spoke under condition of anonymity, said they saw the letter on their desks at about 9:30am when they attended the July 11 state assembly sitting.

The letter was accompanied by a Selangor government gazette with proposed amendments to the Administration of the Religion of Islam (State of Selangor) Enactment 2003.

“We did not know what to do,” the assemblyman told FMT. “We were totally shocked. It was a very delicate situation. If we went against it, it would have caused a constitutional crisis.

“The Sultan is supposed to act on the advice of the state government, not the other way around. Even in the matters of Islam and Malay culture, the Sultan has to act on the advice of the state administration."

“We didn’t want to fight the palace, we had respect for the palace. We let it pass.”

He added that if the assembly had snubbed the letter and voted against the proposed amendments, it would have been played to the hilt by both the mainstream media and the Umno-led state opposition.

Sultan’s letter

A copy of the letter was given to FMT by an anonymous sender. It was issued from the Alam Shah palace in Klang on July 11 and has the Sultan’s signature on it.

“As the head of Islam in the state, I am responsible for ensuring that the administration of Islam in the state operates smoothly and effectively,” the letter reads (see below).

“Therefore, I command all Yang Berhormat Members (of the Selangor State Assembly) to agree with the proposed amendments presented and approve the Bill so that these proposed amendments can be implemented immediately.”

A letter from the Sultan’s private secretary, Mohamed Munir Bani, to state assembly secretary Mohamad Yasin Bidin was also provided to FMT.

It reads: “I respectfully present the decree of His Majesty the Sultan of Selangor… to be distributed to all Selangor State Assemblymen immediately.”

The proposed amendments would:

• Make the administration of all mosques and suraus fall under the purview of the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS).

• This responsibility was previously held by the director of Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS).

• Give the Sultan the right to directly appoint anyone to the post of MAIS secretary.

• Remove the need to record in verbatim every resolution and policy made during MAIS meetings.

• Require all practising Syariah lawyers in the state to be Muslim.

• Require cheques issued by MAIS to be drawn according to its own financial procedures.

• Remove the need for MAIS and any corporation established under the Enactment to adhere to provisions in the Statutory Bodies (Accounts and Annual Reports) Act 1980.

• Give MAIS the power not only to collect zakat and tithes, but also to distribute it.

• Give MAIS the power to appoint anyone as mosque officials.

• Give MAIS the right to control and direct the duties of mosque committees.

There were 22 clauses stated in the provided gazette, with amendments to 21 sections within the Enactment.

Phone call from palace

Another assemblyman, who also spoke to FMT anonymously, said that the proposed amendments were initially made available at a state pre-council meeting, a “few days” before July 11.

According to him, many state assemblymen present at the meeting were unhappy with the bill and hotly debated the details.

“They voiced their displeasure at the bill,” he said. “They felt they should have been consulted first because of its importance.”

Menteri Besar Khalid Ibrahim, according to the assemblyman, said he was troubled by the introduction of the amendments. Comments (4)..

written by earthman, November 09, 2011 20:24:02

If the above news is true, then it again show the agenda of the Islamist either in Umno , PKR or PAS is to run the country and this is one step towards realizing an Islamic state. Never mind the impossibility now or promises ,but always look at the hearts of Muslims. If the desires are still there, there is always a possibility.

If the advocates of a new transformed Malaysia were to keep on focusing on Umno alone,as clearly seen, they will eventually be caught by surprise when attack from within. ...

written by IbnAbdHalim, November 09, 2011 19:58:54

Satan at work. Lucifer or UMNO, both are the same. ...

written by eloofk, November 09, 2011 17:36:47

It is with deep regret if the Sultan of Selangor who doesnt know his rightful place and allows himself to be manipulated by politicians to play politics of which he should not be involved in but above it, then this will definitely signals the beginning of the end of the monarchy in the state or worse still, at the national level. ...

written by malchindian, November 09, 2011 17:21:49

Disturbing information:

Make the administration of all mosques and suraus fall under the purview of the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS).

This responsibility was previously held by the director of Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS). -bumno factions are infighting?

Give the Sultan the right to directly appoint anyone to the post of MAIS secretary. -The blackmailers priviledge Remove the need to record in verbatim every resolution and policy made during MAIS meetings. - irrational comments said at the heat of the moment need not be recorded

Require all practising Syariah lawyers in the state to be Muslim.

Require cheques issued by MAIS to be drawn according to its own financial procedures. - blank cheques on demand, no questions asked?

Remove the need for MAIS and any corporation established under the Enactment to adhere to provisions in the Statutory Bodies (Accounts and Annual Reports) Act 1980.

Give MAIS the power not only to collect zakat and tithes, but also to distribute it. - Transparency is optional?

Give MAIS the power to appoint anyone as mosque officials. - only umno will do?

Give MAIS the right to control and direct the duties of mosque committees. - top down instructions only

Malays to adore him like Allah has decided the fate of Malays to remain stupid Malays....that is all I can say...Now where did he send his children to???

2011-11-08T20:48:00.000-08:00

“This generation will have to face international standard and competition in terms of job market, as part of globalisation,” said Tourres. She cited Pakistan as an example, where she gives lectures. “In Pakistan, although the people speak different dialects, next to the Urdu language, their English is better than our graduates,” she pointed out.

BERNAMA

The quality of Malaysian undergraduates in having a good command of English still remains an issue says a Universiti Malaya academic.

Marie Aimee Tourres, a senior research fellow at the Department of Development Studies, Universiti Malaya, said it was crucial for graduates to have a good command of English to ensure they would be able to compete effectively, in the global job market.

Nevertheless, “in terms of education spending, Malaysia is comparable to some countries in the region based on the percentage spent over its gross domestic product (GDP) growth,” she told Bernama in an interview, Kuala Lumpur.

She said Malaysia was actually spending more vis-a-vis other countries.

In Budget 2012, RM13.6 billion was allocated to the social sector, including education and training, health, welfare, housing and community development.

Tourres said there was also a lot of focus given for training and re-training for graduates, which was important to continuously upgrade skilled and knowledge workers in the country.

However, the quality of undergraduates remains an issue in Malaysia, since the students find it difficult to grasp the English language.

“Language is definitely an issue,” she said, citing a recent publication by the World Bank entitled , ‘The Road to Academic Excellence’, which was a study on what contributes to a world-class research university.

The study compared University Malaya (UM) and National University of Singapore (NUS) in a chapter entitled ‘The National University of Singapore and the University of Malaya: Common Roots and Different Paths’.

In the report, it was stated that as NUS kept pace with the demands of a growing economy that sought to become competitive internationally, with English continuing as the language of instruction and research, UM began to focus inward as proficiency in English declined in favour of the national language.

The publication, which is based on a study conducted by two scholars, Philip Altbach and Jamil Salmi, also stated that because UM taught courses predominantly in the national language, it had much more limited internationalisation of programme, academic staff and student body.

Can grads compete internationally?

“This generation will have to face international standard and competition in terms of job market, as part of globalisation,” said Tourres.

She cited Pakistan as an example, where she gives lectures.

“In Pakistan, although the people speak different dialects, next to the Urdu language, their English is better than our graduates,” she pointed out.

It made them more marketable in the competitive global environment, she noted.

“The immediate result of their English capacity is that you can find many Pakistanis who work for international organisations such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund,” noted Tourres.

She believed that even if Malaysia gave more focus in English, the national language and culture could still prosper, provided that teaching was made interesting.

“More English in school will not deter Malay, Indian and Chinese culture per se. We should not mix the issue of a command of good language and the preservation of national heritage,” she said.

As for the distribution of the book voucher worth RM200 to all Malaysian students in public and private local institutions of higher learning, matriculation as well as Form 6 students nationwide, she believed that it should be monitored to ensure that it served the purpose.

This assistance is expected to benefit 1.3 million students with an allocation of RM260 million.

“That is a lot of money. Probably, it could have been done based on meritocracy to ensure that it is properly utilised,” said Tourres, pointing out that there were risks of students re-selling the voucher, especially when the new targeted generation lacked the reading habit and preferred to go online to search for their study materials.

Comments (23)...

written by lynn, November 08, 2011 17:07:26

I sometimes think it is the Malays themselves who refuse to learn English. For e.g. I go to a govt dept & try to converse in English (giving these civil servants a chance to practise spoken English), they don't want to, not interested. So I go back to speaking to them in BM. As a non-Malay, I encourage my kids to learn all languages & dialects as much as possible. I don't feel learning another language would threaten our identity or culture. How many people are feeling threatened when they converse in English? It's all in the mind... that's all it is. ..

written by devious17, November 08, 2011 08:44:23

Those "graduates" who are not proficient with english can and should forget about employment with MNCs and their likes.

I had to turn away in droves of such "graduates" be it a chinese,indian,malay or anyone for that matter. Dont blame me or call me a racist, I hire real graduates to work for MNCs. Go point your fingers at your all time 'good performing' UMNO/BN. Go get jobs in the public sector and wait till this country becomes like Greece.

On the hind sight, you can say its karma. Gomen/Uni quota has given the bumi-less the cutting edge in the language department. The bumi-less were deprived of the opportunity to continue on to local U and was forced to get their education outside of Malaysia. After spending years overseas (Singapore inclusive) English has become their second language thus getting into MNCs are so much easier coupled with their academic achievement (questionable - most good graduates wont come back).

This has been viewed as preferential treatment by the private sector by those umno/bn morons for hiring bumi-less over bumi-full in the private sector.

Another case of Heads ,I win, Tails , you loose. ...

written by vhari, November 07, 2011 20:28:48

I think english should be a subject in universities from first to the degree year. ...

written by jay, November 07, 2011 18:29:52

Well the BN buffoons are doing the right thing! Keep the majority as illiterate as possible so that they can rule further due to rakyat's ignorance. While these peruki's send their children overseas and prosper! ...

written by Angela Ooi, November 07, 2011 18:04:37

For political purposes, dUMNO promotes 'Ketuanan" among Malays but cruelly does nothing to help them achieve 'ketua' status other than blowing hot air, chest-roosting n teaching them to beg for more goodies saja. Unfortunately for majority Malays, if n when they step an inch out of BolehLand, many will find themselves unable to stand up to the current global village competition. AND WHO IS TO BLAME FOR THIS? ...

written by Fart Fart Wah, November 07, 2011 17:36:49

One stupid deputy pm who wants Malays to adore him like Allah has decided the fate of Malays to remain stupid Malays....that is all I can say...Now where did he send his children to??? to the kafir land of the white man where satan is dancing with drinks and screwing ?? to teach his children to drink and screw the Malay girls from the kampung when they come back??? ...

written by hantu, November 07, 2011 15:09:06

many of the above comments run down our ministers, the goverment & our education system with negative remarks and they're all true. But an even sadder truth is that I've worked with different batches of malaysian student undergraduates from different malaysian universities and on on top of training them and sharing our experience with them I've to correct their english in their written report, either that or just simply throw them away.

Furthermore they are not widely read and have no world view or opinion on ongoing issues - local and international.

We can't just put this down to asian attitude and shyness only for not speaking up.

their mastery of the english language is a stumbling block for their professional and social advancement.

frankly even if I'd wanted to I couldn't hire them. ...

written by SoundMan, November 07, 2011 14:29:35

Doesn't BERNAMA understand anything!? The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, no less, says all we need is Bahasa Malaysia. What's the matter with you people ? We do not need English!

In due time we will work for the Cambodians and learn Khmer. Likewise, we will then be fluent with Bahasa Indon. No problem with Singapore, them speak Pasar Malayoo, ok. We will also have to learn Thai and Tagalog and perhaps for jobs in Laos...ummm..learn Tai–Kadai.

No need to go far far far away to work, then. ...

written by Hakim Joe, November 07, 2011 13:49:47

It is basically NOT an issue of BN knowing for a fact that the command of the English language is essential to the economic well being of the country BUT rather the issue of Bumis reading alternative news sources, BN derives its broad base support from rural Malays and to retain power, they must indoctrinate these people using a medium that they control in a language these people understands. With the onset of the Internet, a non-English literate could not access the alternative news portals (regardless of how wide the broadband coverage is) and hence their information will only come from BN through the Malay news from RTM. Henceforth, BN is selling off the nation for its own selfish aims but it is a matter of retaining power that matters most to them. ...

written by wali10, November 07, 2011 13:49:39

I think what the present BN govt (DPM esp) wilfully ignore is the fact that English is one of the main global COMMUNICATION media, and this ignorance over the long run will lead to Malaysia being side-stepped.

The govt's argument that English should not be the medium of instruction for education or learning is secondary. Once we realise/recognise that English is one of the main global communication language, efforts should be made for the present young generation Malaysians to be able to respectably command the language.

As it is malaysian graduates are already losing out to the Indians, Pakistanis, Fijians, Hong Kongites (?) and all the commonwealth member countries as far as English is concerned. Their 10 year-olds speak better English than our graduates! Shame on us. ..

written by NSTPravda, November 07, 2011 13:36:04

What dis fellow Marie Aimee Tourres dalk about "it was crucial for graduates have a good English to ensure they would be able to compete effectively, in the global job market". We have umno-ised the issue in the usual brilliant fa$hion. Henceforth we propose the following:

1. Get Berkazar or its shadows to make this fellow change her research to agreeing with the GOM

2. Get PDRM to get this fellow to do the nude squat.

3. Get Saiful to accuse this fellow of lesbian sodomy.

4. We strengthen ETP with C4 to become a super NEP so our Race need not compete in the world market.

5. Invite more of these graduates to join UMNO.

6. Swear on the Qur'4n that English is now banned and not needed in this country.

7. Declare war on all kafir infidel English speaking countries.

8. Fine anyone speaking this accursed kafir infidel language.

9. Ban all English books

10 Insist that we will not do business with any countries if they speak Enqlgish or write their contract in English.

Voila, immediately the issues and problem no long exist.

Semua-nya OK! Now, do we qualify to be breakfasted by the FLOM or not!?

Dollar akbar! ...

written by 3nity, November 07, 2011 13:30:56

NO. Really? Who would have guessed English had such an impact? After all, my beloved ministers claim that one only needs to be fluent in the National Language. ...

written by nanakassim, November 07, 2011 13:28:40

arazak, I am very disappointed that you should fail to include another obsession among the bumis to acquire, apart from the Merc or BMW.

I hope you will remember that it is the noble obligation of every successful umno contractor or leader to open three more cawangan rumah-tangga.

And so they leave happily ever after GE13. ..

written by red1, November 07, 2011 12:59:06

Jika awak tidak fasih Bahasa Inggeris, nanti susah mendapat kerja bergaji lumayan, siapa yang susah? Negara ke awak? Dua-dua lah brader. Sampai anak cucu nanti. Fikir-fikirlah sendiri. ...

written by earthman, November 07, 2011 12:48:27

On one hand they want bahasa as the medium and to improve the standard of English. But their hearts shiver and failed once they hear that English be made compulsory for a pass in SPM . Hypocrites do not deserve to lead the nation. ...

written by earthman, November 07, 2011 12:43:32

How many times do it had to be repeated before they understand? For the truth shall guide one to the highest. All other means are pride ,lies, and self center greed and lust. Can't they see how the people at the top do it? Must it be repeated again and again? Bertaubat-lah dan ikut jalan yang lurus. Tidak ada jalan lain selain jalan yang lurus,benar dan hidup dalam Tuhan. ...

written by SiHangChai, November 07, 2011 12:25:08

The author is very truly stated. This DPM, Muhiyddin is tryingto sabotage the English program so that the Malays will continue to be slave of his in his bid to become the next PM and also to control the Malays when he is the PM. He knows very well that English educated Malays will probably more intelligent than the BM educated. On unemployment, the author is also right tothe point. Our Malaysian graduates do not have a good master of English. Poor indeed even though they may have scored 1st Class Honor. I have been throwing out a lot of job applicants ; unfortunately many of them are Malays b'cos they can't even write and speak proper primary school English! ...

written by mt31aug, November 07, 2011 11:59:54

In one recent CSI episode in which policemen with gun drawn searching the suspect's rooms and shouted 'CLEAR!' - it means no threat.. Malay subtitle? It was '' JELAS!'' (20 years ago we all laughed at translation of 'FIRE' by policemen to shoot into Malay subtitle 'API'. Today, same thing occurs. ...

written by syd, November 07, 2011 10:37:35

Belly funny this university Malaya.

One guy said abolish PPSMI, another said, promote English.

Why can't they let the student choose which language they want to focus on. ...

written by arazak, November 07, 2011 10:07:03

UiTM graduates no need to be proficient in English. Here is why;

Upon graduation join Mat rempit cum UMNO youth, sure to secure a job. Next, after many years as Pemuda UMNO become Ketua Cawangan. . ., sure can get class F contract. Then onward become Ketua Bahagian and secure bigger contracts even though some contract F work he undertook are slipshod or uncompleted.

After getting those bigger contracts from UMNO government sell projects to MCA China-man and buy a Mercedes Benz or BMW. Possible also to create Ali Baba business with MCA Chinaman. Make stadium, hospitals, schools or flyover which will either crack or break in a couple of years. Who cares. . ., "duit sudah dapat" and all the city council engineers and inspectors had all been bribed. If anybody dies of mishap or if tax payers have to cough up extra million ringgit to repair the infrastructure. . ., "peduli apa aku"!

Having enough money, can stash it up in overseas bank. If caught in Australia for snuggling hard cash. . ., no problem. Just plead, "Me no speke Inglis", in front of the Australian judge. Case close!

"I speke Bahasa Ketuanan and who say I need speke Inglis. . ., cannot tukar mode cakap orang putih lah"! ...

written by hellosunshine, November 07, 2011 09:18:18

Aiya no need English lah. If the umnoputras and their eunuchs in BN will have it, they would prefer to keep the children like kataks dibawah tempurung so that their children, who goes to private and international schools and overseas universities, can take over the country in the future and continue their tradition of looting and plundering. The sad part of it all is that there are idiots of the highest order who are totally blind to these dumbing down tactics used by the ruling regime on their children and continue to vote them in. ..

written by cheekhiaw, November 07, 2011 08:47:20

Apasal cakap tentang Ingris saya? Dunia semua tak tahu I tuan ke? Kalo dia orang mahu cakap dengan tuan, dia orang cakap bahasa tuan tahu? ...

written by educationist, November 07, 2011 06:56:30

Not to worry, the UMNOputras will continue to take those unemployable graduates into the civil service!!

Where it matters, when it matters - which is now, when the results of the PPSMI can be vouched ,[in so far as beginning teachers in the teacher training institutes are concerned] the UMNOputras for political expediency have decided to discontinue the policy!!

PAS & PKR are the worst culprits in this context - for the UMNOputras must be responding to these 2 tempurung parties opposition to the PPSMI when that substandard Education Minister decided to discontinue the policy!!

All languages are useful..... English is becoming a international language Mr. LKY once replied Mandarin cannot become an international language. Dr Mahathir kata Bahasa Malaysia adalah Bahasa dunia suatu hari nanti. Mungkin pada 2020............ !!!????

2011-11-06T21:01:00.001-08:00

Lovely is the English language..........

A REPUBLIC OF VIRTUE

Dr Azly Rahman

Lovely is the English language

More fruitful than that of the Malays

I could see the fruitfulness of it

And learn to appreciate juiciness when you bite into it

Unlike the dryness of that of the Malays

You can call someone an apple of your eye

And when you fall in love with that person you can go bananas

In Malay you can't call your date a rambutan

and be mistaken as an orangutan

you can be crazy in love and go bananas but you can't say that I am going to be a pisang

no no no -- Malay is a fruitless language

Fruity is the English language

Better than that of the fruitless Malays

You can fall out of love and become a sour grape

When the apple of your eye left you for the Big Apple

You can see politicians become sour grapes

When they are no longer favoured in their Banana Republic

In the fruitless Malay language, when you become a sour grape

You can't call yourself a kedondong and sit under a tree like ikan temenong

You can't even call your ex-girlfriend a pulasan

as you were the first to 'perasan' and became a sour grape

Ahh Tutti Frutti English Language

Ahhh no such things as ... buah muah ... in Malay language

simply won't go as Malay is a fruitless language

English is in demand

as a fruity language Malaysians should have command

Americans can drive a 'lemon'

Can Malaysians drive a 'longan'?

Ahhh ... there there is an English fruit called 'squash'

One can even play the fruit and be good at squash

Can Malaysian be good at durians

And roll them down the bowling lane?

How fruitless is the Malay language

I have often wondered why traditional English parents love the fruit cantelope

They feed their girls that thing at an early age

Now that I am in love with the English language I know it means

... "can't elope" ... hah ... how fruity is the beauty of the language

But can you Malays come up with a fruit that "can't elope"

I bet you can't ... you fruitless language

The best you can tell a girl is that she is a "jambu" but she will still elope.

When you are in love and with the apple of your eye

When you go bananas and saved from being a sour grape

When you go on a date in Strawberry Fields

Your heart will always be on Orange Alert

You will be cheery like wild cherry

No-- can the Malay language be as fruitful and fruity as this

No it can't

How could you call your girlfriend a lychee

And not expect her the smack you with her tai chi

And you go crazy over her like a Siamese mango without biji

And your heart beat fast like a magoesteen on 100-meter dash to eternity

Fruity is the English language

Darling are the clementines

Like in the song "Oh my darling ... clementine"

Try using that line via the fruitless Malay language

Trying saying "sayang ku .... limau kasturi"

And you'll see Hang Lekir and Hang Lekiu

running after you crying like a Portuguese fruit under a Melakka tree

English even have "pomegranade"

Of which the word grenade emanate

Fruitless language Malay don't have this

The closest is the sound of the popping of buah getah

As a child visiting grandma and grandpa in Penang I would wonder

what the heck is that little C4s of a fruit's doing

Okay maybe there is one fruity word the Malays can be proud of

is when they call their love one "buah hati"

or "fruit of the heart"

now logically, do hearts have fruits?

or fruits have heart?

unless you talk about love that is coming to fruition

and the heart is cheery like a shaved rambutan

or a repented durian that finally bathe in perfume water

made from a concoction of limau kasturi and fermented lychee

So-- what then must we worry

Fruitless it will be

Of which language is more fruity

When we all now know

which one is

the good .. the bad ... and the fruity ... !

Comments (15)...

written by Hakim Joe, November 07, 2011 02:07:05

Dr Azly, I wouldn't go so far as to call BM a fruitless language after all it is actually quite useful under certain circumstances like "Apa macam Encik, mana tangke dan lesen?" ...

written by lynn, November 07, 2011 00:21:28

Dr Azly,

Where have you been? Such a funny frutti-tutti piece you wrote. Thanks for the laugh.

There is no need to feel bad our Bahasa Melayu have limitations; Malay history is short compared

to English or Chinese, both civilisations have existed for thousands of years. I have come across many

deep meaningful sayings in Cantonese that cannot be expressed in English. Probably vice versa too.

Mastering English does not threaten our Malaysian identity; it is a TOOL of communication... mmm.. in case some readers get hot under the collar over this emphasis on English !!! ...

written by roggon, November 06, 2011 22:44:46

bahasa malaysia or melayu is only good for peddling with drugs along petaling street ...

written by panca, November 06, 2011 11:25:05

Typo error : English language IS in not .... ...

written by panca, November 06, 2011 11:20:09

English language in not only wonderful, words and definitions vary in way we express and there are words that are not the same but only similar whereas many words in another language are missing and therefore had to be borrowed.

I find the English language an "efisyen" language or if majority of the system and government staff paid by the people taxes will become "efisyen" serving the people?!

Let's study English language as the communicative and learning language and not as a foreign language while we are trying to be 'itu apanama' "efisyen" and doing ourselves the injustices from the learning curves the children of tomorrow deserves without sacrificing Bahasa Malaysia Melayu.

written by NSTPravda, November 06, 2011 06:00:10 We have always suspected that this Dr Azly Rahman fellow is slightly fruity and this piece of fruit basket case really makes him a fruit cake, with a bit of nuts thrown in. To say that he has gone bananas is an understatement with what has come to fruition in this fruity manifestion. Our commi$$erations. For pubic service, we wish to suggest that one mind find it more rewarding to Praise our 1Lord, Jibby the Head, the $upreme and Urbane 1AyahFuhrer without whose C4 Doctrines, our fruits will not be that ta$ty and our grapes more sour.

$emua-nya OK! ...

written by ak_malaysia, November 06, 2011 01:32:59

TQ Doc! Wonderful, just wonderful! That's what you are!

Like your poem very much. Keep it up doc! ...

written by sltemp, November 06, 2011 00:31:34

Teachers can teach the best-level of English to students but if they don't use English consistently, whatever that they were taught will be lost. It is very important that students not only speak English but also read and write. The problem is that most students get a few hours of English lessons in school and that's it.

It was reported that an undergraduate from Kelantan lamented to the Vice-Chacellor in a local public university during an open dialogue that his Malay friends in the university teased him when he tried to speak in English with them. One reason is to avoid embarrassment over their mistakes. So their English level remained mediocre because of their refusal to speak and use English. ..

written by vhari, November 05, 2011 21:43:16

Oral English teaching is as important as written english to improve english.

written by earthman, November 05, 2011 21:34:15

One shall know the tree by its fruits. For a good tree cannot bear bad fruits and a bad tree cannot bear good fruits.

Jiwa bahasa, jiwa bangsa.

Jiwa bangsa, buah bahasa?

For a tree that bears good fruits is better than one with green leaves. A tree with green young leaves is a sign its growing.

A tree that bear fruits , feed the hungry and then it dies. From its seeds shall sprang up many more trees and abundant of fruits. And it is good in the eyes of the world, for they live by the fruits of the tree.

A giant tree with abundance of green leaves keeps on growing , blocking out the precious sun light that the little good trees beneath needs to grow and bear fruits . But the big tree would not want to share the sun with anyone.

Unless the big bad tree is chop down and thrown into the fire, the hungry would not have fruits from the many good little trees that wants to produce for the world. Once the big tree is gone , the little good trees would grow and multiply and the world sing with joy. For now all have good fruits and are filled. ...

written by Saint, November 05, 2011 18:27:50

An interesting poem with meanings..Thanks for sharing Dr. ...

written by educationist, November 05, 2011 18:23:28

Tq Dr Azly for giving a lesson on the versailtility of the English language!!

But the racists will not be moved for they do not see beyond the narrow confines of their tempurung!! ...

written by Chuan, November 05, 2011 17:57:43

I think Dr M meant his version of 'Dunia Akhirat'.

Really, I don't understand what the fuss it is all about this language medium thing. The most important objective in a learning environment is for the students to master the concept and lesson of what is being taught. It doesn't matter what language it is in.

Of course, if the language used is universal, that's absolutely a bonus point to it as it will increase the competitiveness of our graduates. If not, we still have quality in our graduates who are well-versed in their field of studies and researches. Unless of course, we are in a country where universities existed to fulfill quotas and churn out good-for-nothing grads. Did I offend anyone? Well, what can I say, truth hurts.

Let our students learn their lessons in BM or English, or even Mandarin, I don't care, but really, stick to ONE and move on. And THEN, ensure these same students are given the opportunity to learn elective languages which will help them in the global markets. I sincerely believe that most Malaysians have the knack for languages. We can easily speak many dialects and languages without formal training. Also, look at our politicians, ain't they all also cunning-linguists?

The debate should not be on which language to use in the teaching, but rather, on the QUALITY of the education. My fellow Malaysians, don't let ourselves get side-tracked by these cunning-linguists! ...

written by vhari, November 05, 2011 17:11:37

All languages are useful. English is becoming a international language Mr. .LKY once replied Mandarin cannot become an international language. ...

written by Susuit, November 05, 2011 16:25:53

Dr Mahathir kata Bahasa Malaysia adalah Bahasa dunia suatu hari nanti. Mungkin pada 2020.

We have a philosophically dead society by those who could not even see the need to look at society through the lens of political economy but rather see the bastardised version of specialised functions of governance as the only way to run society as a political entity.........

2011-11-06T09:24:00.000-08:00

Have Malaysians failed to examine their lives, borrowing the Socratic maxim “the unexamined life is not worth living”?

Are we summoning our greatest enemy - ignorance - to lead us to the path of developmentalism and putting knowledge in front of the firing squad circa Merdeka/Independence, borrowing again another Socratic maxim “the greatest enemy of knowledge is ignorance”?

A REPUBLIC OF VIRTUE

Dr Azly Rahman

What is ailing our society? Are we moving into the final stages of social, political, and moral annihilation, judging from the levels and forms of violence we are seeing emerging? We see no respect for the rule of law, an increasing gap between the rich and the poor, conspicuous consumption at the highest level of vulgarity, a continuing massacre of the voice of critical sensibility, a direction-less educational progress, production of public statements championing racial and religious bigotry, prostitutionalisation of the electoral process, drunkenness of politicians in attacking pluralists and multiculturalists, fear and trembling upon hearing the words “socialism” and “communism” - all these are indicators of the chaos Malaysians are experiencing in their attempt to understand where their leaders are taking them and why this nation is being torn apart. Has Malaysia made a wrong turn in conceptualising its economic, social, and political policies, merely transplanting a system left by the colonials? Have we nurtured a culture that ensures the continuation of a system of exploitation adorned with a façade of nationalism and patriotism derived from the much contested ideology of ketuanan Melayu that is fast losing its force of populism and gaining an image of neo-colonialist Sartrean nausea offering a “no-exit” route to a collapsing grand narrative of an Asian despotic form of deformed developmentalism?

Why are we experiencing this phenomenon? Why are our elected officials becoming corrupted to the core - both in the way they use power and the way they display the image of being in power?

What has crept cancerously into the cognitive faculties/thinking process of our leaders in these five decade of unilinear developmentalist agenda that necessitates such a brutal image of arrogance in the way the leaders react to the voices of discontent as in the Bersih rally and in investigations on corrupt practices?

Have Malaysians failed to examine their lives, borrowing the Socratic maxim “the unexamined life is not worth living”? Are we summoning our greatest enemy - ignorance - to lead us to the path of developmentalism and putting knowledge in front of the firing squad circa Merdeka/Independence, borrowing again another Socratic maxim “the greatest enemy of knowledge is ignorance”?
I suppose we have installed rulers who are not philosophers. We continue to install exploiters and abusers of power that use the ideological state apparatuses to allow a certain paradigm of human and material development to reign supreme. We have installed robber barons who speak with a two-pronged tongue of national development; skilled users of Orwellian doublespeak.
What we have is now, after over 50 years of independence, are a broken education system; a population that does not read books that help in the improvement of the soul, mind, and spirit; a ruling regime that is holding its last dying breath by chanting the mantra of racial and religious bigotry in the hope that it can continue to live in luxury for the next decade or so.

A philosophically dead society

We have a philosophically dead society by those who could not even see the need to look at society through the lens of political economy but rather see the bastardised version of specialised functions of governance as the only way to run society as a political entity.
We need to groom philosopher-rulers - not as an elitist Platonic or Confucian type of ruling elitism, but to create the everyday philosopher-ruler in our project of grooming future leaders in virtually all sectors of our lives. We need to reconceptualise the way we run our universities and public institutions in the training of the mind to lead organisations. We need to help members of society understand what knowledge is, its origin, its transformative power, and how it should be applied for the good of those that are potentially marginalised, alienated, or even mentally enslaved in newer and more subtle ways.

Through education conceived differently to meet the needs of a degenerating society, members of society need to be taught how to analyse complex social, ethical, technological, and social issues in this post-industrial and informational age and offer scientific ideas to effect humanistic and social change in virtually all sectors of human intellectual-macro level activities.

To save this nation from total destruction, we must go back to philosophy and through a rigorous curriculum adaptable to varying contexts of learning, teach our future leaders the following:

• To understand the nature of knowledge and the history of its conceptualisation.

• To understand the differences between knowledge, information, understanding, application, and able to articulate how these conceptions differ from one another.

• To utilise the understanding of the philosophical, cultural, and political-economic aspects of knowledge as a basis to create newer and synthesised understanding of these and craft frameworks to offer perspectives to social and moral problems.

• To develop logical, creative, moral, and futuristic ideas for social and organisational change; ideas informed by the deep rooted and broad-based understanding of knowledge in the most inter-disciplinary and cross-cultural sense of the word.

• To develop a set of cognitive skills to be recognised as effective, respectable, well-informed, philosophically-trained members of a think-tank group of social organisations and social frontier thinkers able to generate innovative solutions to complex problems.

• To explore varying cultural philosophies and draw universal themes of ethics and social reconstructionism to affect changes that will benefit the poor, marginalised, and alienated of all ethnic groups.

Such is the newer design we ought to explore to renew our intellectual prosperity. We must begin to become a nation of philosophers more than a nation of plunderers.

DR AZLY RAHMAN, who was born in Singapore and grew up in Johor Baru, holds a Columbia University (New York) doctorate in International Education Development and Master's degrees in the fields of Education, International Affairs, Peace Studies and Communication. He has taught more than 40 courses in six different departments and has written more than 300 analyses on Malaysia. His teaching experience spans Malaysia and the United States, over a wide range of subjects from elementary to graduate education. He currently resides in the United States.

https://www.facebook.com/#!/azly.rahman

http://azlyrahman-illuminations.blogspot.com/

Comments (8)...

written by OrangKaya, November 07, 2011 01:02:44

What do you expect when the country is rule by kepala lembus and run by gaji butas. ...

written by Eskay345, November 06, 2011 20:49:18

When one programmes himself and hangers-on and honestly believes to be the "ketuanan" as right of birth, to be more superior to other people of other ethnicity, then everything that they do will be OK in the eyes of law and in the eyes of God.

So stealing, plundering, cheating and gathering wealth via corrupt means is also "semuanya OK"

Yang lain mampus, siapa perdulikan? ...

written by educationist, November 06, 2011 19:16:49

"We must begin to become a nation of philosophers more than a nation of plunderers.' - doubtlessly if this is achieved our fall towards failed state status can be arrested!!

Sadly , this is unlikely to happen anytime soon!!

The UMNOputras are predicted to be able to retain control of Putrajaya after GE13, so there's no hope of any change in our nation's philosophical inclinations!!

It shall be Gorek, Gorek , Gorek all the way for the UMNOputras as they try to line their pockets, their families and cronies bank accounts!! ...

written by cheekhiaw, November 06, 2011 18:05:53

Doktor, apa ini filo semua cakap? Zaman jahilyah dah lama tamat you tak tahu ke? Itu sebab sejarah kami tak payah filo,...filo apa tu? Relak lah... ...

written by Albert Zacharias, November 06, 2011 16:58:19

Dr. Azly,

Your recommendations very complicated because your description of our leaders and the problems are only found in animal kingdom like in the jungle.

The simple solution is just to shoot them ! ...

written by earthman, November 06, 2011 16:33:15

Dr. Azly Rahman's suggested reforms for a progressive and advanced nation is for a free and curious society where seeking knowledge is a way of life and advancement propel by the freedom that that society enjoyed. Is the Malaysian society and authority agreeable for such advancement and higher form of living?

A look at the problems described by Dr Azly will tell you that the foundations for such does not exist at all.

When the minds are form on false superiority,and actually driven by greed, lust and wickedness because of deception by the illusion and pride of ''ketuanan bangsa dan ugama, '' ( Superiority of race and religion ) the outcome will be restriction, injustice, suppression and persecution. For only a free society not bound by false sense of superiority will the society progress and advance to the highest form of living intended for human beings.

They need to be humble and seek the cause of this trend towards self destruction. A look at the middle east and Arab world will give one a hint of the mentality that restrict the people from advancing and living a prosperous peaceful life. An inferiority complex , veiled by pride that release hatred towards anything that seem to threaten their existence, righteousness and obedience to god. Hence the restriction on freedom , threats and force to justify their position as master over all its citizen.

Only a repentance , humility and surrender to God that release love and liberty to its people , will the society benefit from the knowledge and application , that would drive every aspect of our lives towards perfection. That is don't play god or lie but be the guardian of the liberty and rights of each and every citizens of this nation Malaysia. ...

written by sang kancil, November 06, 2011 16:21:04

Malaysia is doomed unless the Rakyat wakes up and THROW out the SCUMBAGS LIARS AND THIEVES from PUTRAJAYA. ...

written by Jibby the Head, your C4 Friendly $upreme 1AiyahDollar Fuhrer, November 06, 2011 15:43:53

Read lah 1my Oaf 1My Qur'4n swearing pink pouting lip$

What is ailing our society? Stupid question that's frivolous and typically, technically unsound thinking from a lesser known low class Columbian drug university possibly run by a cartel in the US. Our richest umno cronies don't need these high faluting degrees to get obscenely rich, in fact they get rich first then get the best doctorates they can buy, look a Madhater's sons and Taib and myself. In fact Ciken Rice Yaktim thought his PhD was just another academic exercise and I didn't get to where I am by relying on my degree. I was promote the old fa$hion umno-ised way of nepoti$m and C4. So take your silly questions back to Columbia as your degree cannot even hope to compare with our world crass umno-ised bolih universities. We are semua-nya OK!

A Philosophically Dead Society

2011-11-06T09:14:00.000-08:00

We have a philosophically dead society by those who could not even see the need to look at society through the lens of political economy but rather see the bastardised version of specialised functions of governance as the only way to run society as a political entity.

We need to groom philosopher-rulers - not as an elitist Platonic or Confucian type of ruling elitism, but to create the everyday philosopher-ruler in our project of grooming future leaders in virtually all sectors of our lives.

We need to reconceptualise the way we run our universities and public institutions in the training of the mind to lead organisations. We need to help members of society understand what knowledge is, its origin, its transformative power, and how it should be applied for the good of those that are potentially marginalised, alienated, or even mentally enslaved in newer and more subtle ways.

Through education conceived differently to meet the needs of a degenerating society, members of society need to be taught how to analyse complex social, ethical, technological, and social issues in this post-industrial and informational age and offer scientific ideas to effect humanistic and social change in virtually all sectors of human intellectual-macro level activities.

To save this nation from total destruction, we must go back to philosophy and through a rigorous curriculum adaptable to varying contexts of learning, teach our future leaders the following:

• To understand the nature of knowledge and the history of its conceptualisation.

• To understand the differences between knowledge, information, understanding, application, and able to articulate how these conceptions differ from one another.

• To utilise the understanding of the philosophical, cultural, and political-economic aspects of knowledge as a basis to create newer and synthesised understanding of these and craft frameworks to offer perspectives to social and moral problems.

• To develop logical, creative, moral, and futuristic ideas for social and organisational change; ideas informed by the deep rooted and broad-based understanding of knowledge in the most inter-disciplinary and cross-cultural sense of the word.

• To develop a set of cognitive skills to be recognised as effective, respectable, well-informed, philosophically-trained members of a think-tank group of social organisations and social frontier thinkers able to generate innovative solutions to complex problems.

• To explore varying cultural philosophies and draw universal themes of ethics and social reconstructionism to affect changes that will benefit the poor, marginalised, and alienated of all ethnic groups.

Such is the newer design we ought to explore to renew our intellectual prosperity. We must begin to become a nation of philosophers more than a nation of plunderers.

Khalil Gibran was right when he wrote of children: “...they have their own thoughts. You may house their bodies but not their souls; For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow, which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.” If you try to shut them up, they will one day shut you up. It’s as simple as that!

2011-11-05T00:42:00.000-07:00

For decades now, our freedom of thought and speech has been curtailed so much that many Malaysians are suffering from the disease of blindly obeying and mindlessly believing what certain leaders are telling them. Isn’t it any wonder that not many people are daring enough to oppose certain mental manipulations by leaders, kowtowing and nodding their heads as if they are in a deep state of hypnosis?

By Daniel John Jambun

I cannot help feeling extremely elated that last Monday by a three-judge panel made a ruling that a provision in the Universities and University Colleges Act (UUCA) 1971 which restricts students from expressing in support of, or opposing any political party, is unconstitutional. This is history in the making, to say the least!

I also feel that the remarks by one of the three-man panel of judges, Datuk Mohd Hishamuddin Mohd Yunus Yunus, are worth repeating here, and even be carved onto stone for future generations to read and excite over, as much as today’s generations still gloat over the Magna Carta (the Great Charter) which was presented to King John of England by a group of his subjects, the feudal barons, in 1215, with the warning that if the king refused the charter, they would depose him. The Magna Carta was later passed into law to limit the power of the King.

Hishamuddin stated unequivocally that Section 15(5)(a) of the UUCA was irrational as it impeded “the healthy development of the critical mind and original thoughts of students, the objective of which higher education institutions should strive to achieve. Universities should be the breeding ground of reformers and thinkers, and not institutions to produce students trained as robots. Clearly the provision is not only counter-productive but repressive in nature. Freedom of expression was one of the most fundamental rights that individuals enjoy and that right was also recognized in numerous human rights documents such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. It is fundamental to the existence of democracy and the respect of human dignity. Freedom of speech is accorded pre-eminent status in the constitutions of many countries…”

How should the country’s ruling political leaders react to this ruling by the nation’s court of appeal? If any member of the political elite decides to appeal the ruling, if that is possible under the law, such an appellant would have to answer to Hishamuddin’s rationales that he was “at a loss to understand in what manners a student, who expresses support for, or opposition against, a political party could harm or bring about an adverse effect on public order or public morality. Are not political parties legal entities carrying out legitimate political activities? Most university students were of the age of maturity where they could enter into contracts, sue and be sued, can marry and become parents and undertake parental responsibilities, vote in general elections if they were 21 years of age. Yet lies herein the irony that they were told that legally they cannot say anything that can be construed as supporting or opposing a political party.”

I would also add that if we open and operate many universities with hundreds and millions of ringgits to educate our young people, why tell them they are not, will never be, intelligent enough to make any judgment about what’s right and wrong as long as they are students and scholars? How will they write short analyses and theses in which they are required to make mature evaluation of political and national governance issues as causes, and connect these evaluations to socio-economic consequences? Are university students supposed to refrain from making the right analyses for fear that they would be going against Section 15(5)(a) of the UUCA? What kind of thesis would it be that is biased and dishonest, and what kind of university graduate would it be who can’t even tell what’s right and what’s wrong because the government had told him he couldn’t support or oppose any political thinking? How ridiculous can a law be!

I have thought all this while that we are supposed to have universities to develop the country through the creation of generations of intellectuals who will take over the country, not a bunch of graduates who fear the government and when they become leaders will also make the same silly rules to gag future students. I believe that if we succeed in spending millions upon millions of ringgits to produce puppets and robots, our country will simply go down the drain, like what is already happening to us now!

For decades now, our freedom of thought and speech has been curtailed so much that many Malaysians are suffering from the disease of blindly obeying and mindlessly believing what certain leaders are telling them. Isn’t it any wonder that not many people are daring enough to oppose certain mental manipulations by leaders, kowtowing and nodding their heads as if they are in a deep state of hypnosis? Since their time in primary schools, they have been brainwashed, through the Ministry of (Dis)Information, that the government is right all the time, and that the people’s duty is just to believe and obey. And worst, we are still being made to believe that the opposition is lying, day-dreaming, making empty promises they can’t keep, can’t do anything to help the people, just a bunch of noise makers and irritants, even deluded and evil leaders who will cause chaos and disasters if they take over the government! But are the people frightened of the opposition? Hardly, judging from the recent Sarawak general election and the 2008 political tsunami!

We can pose more and more question on this and will only make this anti-intellectual provision more and more ridiculous. What we need to realize is that, all this while the institutions of higher learning are places where students and professors are muted and curtailed from performing their duties to produce generations of critical, creative, innovative and pro-active leaders in all spheres of national activities. Section 15(5)(a) was actually included in the UUCA because the government feared, and still do fear, students from becoming too smart and eventually lean towards the opposition. But they forget that truth can’t be hidden forever, and university students will eventually know who is actually lying to them. With or without Section 15(5)(a), they will still voice out their feelings one way or another, and this is more dangerous to the government because they will be working undercover and discreetly.

The BN should understand that they are borrowing time from the next generation of leaders, which are the present students. The future belongs to the new generation, not to the present ruling elites. As I see it, the present leaders are succeeding very well in destroying the future, and the future leaders will have a very hard time trying to repair a lot of damages which are being done and will be passed on to them. If the BN is sincere about wanting to do the right thing, it would now let students participate fully in the political process, to say what they want to say. The future is already their responsibility NOW, not later! Khalil Gibran was right when he wrote of children: “...they have their own thoughts. You may house their bodies but not their souls; For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow, which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.” If you try to shut them up, they will one day shut you up. It’s as simple as that!

Comments (1)...

written by vhari, November 05, 2011 15:19:00

It`s implication is that students can lawfully campaigne in the coming election .

But not known if government servants can lawfully campaigne or not.

“Members must maintain such high standards of accountability to safeguard the dignity and decorum of the House, and to maintain the public's trust in our Parliament” – CAN OUR MALAYSIAN MPs ADOPT SUCH HIGH STANDARDS OF CONDUCT??

2011-10-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2009

Why such high standards for MPs' conduct? ST 6 Jun 2009

FOUR-LETTER words, unsubstantiated allegations, sexist remarks and even racist slurs - some might find it hard to imagine but the august halls of Singapore's Parliament have heard it all.

At different times throughout the country's history, parliamentarians have been known to indulge in some downright unparliamentary language and behaviour.

MPs in hot water

SEVERAL MPs have been taken to task by Parliament for their conduct in the House, either for what they did or said. Insight looks at four notable cases of MPs behaving badly and one of a minister's hair-raising faux pas.

The first MP to be censured
... more

But few, if any, have got away with it.

Some have been censured, some have apologised, while others have been suspended or fined, all in the name of maintaining a high standard of decorum in the House.
Last week, this strict code of conduct was demonstrated once again after MP Sin Boon Ann (Tampines GRC) read out an e-mail that criticised The Straits Times' coverage of the Aware saga, a criticism that he said he agreed with.

However, he also said the e-mail was from someone he did not know and he had not verified its contents either.

His lack of due diligence prompted the Leader of the House, Mr Mah Bow Tan, to issue a stern reminder to MPs that the privilege of parliamentary immunity - they cannot be sued for what they say in Parliament - must be balanced by high standards of accuracy.

Mr Sin himself was also made to apologise to the House.

Last week's incident was the first time in four years that an MP has been taken to task for his conduct in the House. (See story: MPs in hot water)
It comes at a time when the British Parliament - which Singapore's was modelled after - is embroiled in a scandal over MPs' perks.

The two combined mean a glaring spotlight is now trained on the behaviour of parliamentarians.

To be sure, conduct in Singapore's Parliament is more civil than in many other parliaments. Discourse is typically polite, heckling is mild on the rare occasions when it occurs, and there has never been shouting matches, fist-fights or furniture-tossing.

This emphasis on orderly conduct has led some to question if Singapore's House has become too bland.

How did we arrive at this parliamentary culture? Has it always been like this? And is it really necessary to impose such high standards on MPs?

The dos and don'ts

AT THE most basic level, Parliament derives some of its standards from the law.

The Parliament (Privileges, Immunities and Powers) Act spells out a list of 17 different offences MPs can be taken to task for. These include assaulting or insulting the Speaker or another MP, presenting any false, fabricated or falsified document with intent to deceive, and refusing to answer a relevant question.

The penalties for these include imprisonment, suspension or a fine of up to $50,000.

There is also the option for Parliament to temporarily suspend the MP's immunity from civil and criminal suits.

But rules only go so far.

Singapore's legislation is no more severe than in most other Commonwealth countries, points out constitutional law expert Kevin Tan.

'The rules themselves do not set the standard of behaviour or decorum,' he says. 'By and large, Parliament is a master of its own rules and can suspend a member's privileges.'

So far, however, it has never come to that. Singapore MPs have, on the whole, stayed within the limits.

In fact, only one person - the late opposition member J.B. Jeyaretnam - has ever been fined for his conduct in Parliament.

In the 1980s, he was referred to the House's Privileges Committee four times - once in 1982 and thrice in 1986.

The 1986 cases involved alleging executive interference in the judiciary and abuse of police powers, and failing to declare a pecuniary interest in a question he raised.

The committee fined him $1,000 on each count.

The trio of offences proved to have deeper repercussions for Parliament. In August that year, Parliament moved to introduce harsher penalties on errant MPs. It was also in the wake of this case that the possibility of suspending immunity was introduced.

To this day, the 1986 examples stand as the most serious transgressions in the House.

Most other cases were resolved with the MP involved apologising.

The cases though run the gamut from crude to amusing.

One case that many MPs interviewed recall happened just four years ago, when an expletive was uttered in Parliament.
'Shit', as an exclamation in the English language, made its way into the House, thanks to then Nominated MP Ong Soh Khim. She said the word during the 2005 Budget debate when she ran out of time. She apologised.
The same earthy entity, but this time enunciated in Hokkien, returned to Parliament two years later when MP Lee Bee Wah (Ang Mo Kio GRC) referred to it to make a point in her speech. Though some outside the House criticised her choice of vocabulary, she was not censured by Parliament.

These two bouts of verbal excess were preceded by, among others, a racist remark from former MP Choo Wee Khiang, a comment about women's hairdos from then Health Minister Lim Hng Kiang, and the ABCs of expletives from MP Ling How Doong in 1997.

Recalled former MP Wang Kai Yuen: 'He used ABC. A for asshole, B for bastard and C for talk cock.'

But clear transgressions aside, former MPs recall there generally being more banter in the House.

Heckling, though milder than in other countries, was once commonplace.

One of those who took part was former MP Chandra Das. His target was often opposition MP Chiam See Tong.
'It was harmless, we were just trying to disrupt each other's train of thought,' he tells Insight.

Mr Chiam often gave as good as he got. Mr Ling's ABCs, for instance, came in retaliation to Mr Chiam's heckling.
The practice is now rarely seen. MPs wait their turn patiently.
To voice approval, they no longer shout 'Hear hear' but thump on the chairs.
Dr Wang thinks the disappearance of heckling is simply a generational matter: 'I presume in the 1980s, more of the MPs were exposed to the British tradition. Over time, maybe we have evolved our own tradition so much so that we don't even do this anymore.'

Although he laments: 'If so, the proceedings in Parliament will be rather boring.'

Mr Das puts it down to the stricter time limits imposed on MPs' speeches these days. During Budget debates, for instance, an MP has 18 minutes to make his points - no matter how many ministries he wants to comment on. Those who head a government parliamentary committee get two minutes more.

There used to be a time when there was no limit to how long an MP could talk. This leeway ended, thanks to former Barisan Sosialis MP Lee Siew Choh.

In 1961, he delivered a speech that broke all records - and some backsides - when he argued against the proposed merger with Malaysia. He spoke for nearly 71/2 hours, starting at 11.20pm and finishing the next morning.

A time limit was introduced shortly after.

Too strict?

BUT though some former MPs reminisce fondly of the time when heckling was more commonplace and debates were livelier, all agree that the orderly Parliament in place now is a system that works for Singapore.

'You can focus on what is said rather than how it is said. It is now based more on the substance than on oratory skills,' says Wan Hussin Zoohri, a PAP MP from 1980 to 1991.

Mr Das shares the sentiment, saying one key feature of the local Parliament is that it is a 'working Parliament'.
'They don't have time to waste,' he says.

He stresses that it must always strive to maintain the high standards it has already set.

'When you set standards, there is bound to be abuse. When lapses occur, you correct them. If you set your standards low, you will get a bazaar.'

As for former MP Chew Heng Ching, he boils the matter down to MPs needing to set a good example: 'MPs are role models for many in society. Unlike in other countries, the standards expected of MPs here are very high.'

Says Mr Charles Chong (Pasir Ris- Punggol GRC): 'The fact that we do have immunity actually means that we have a higher responsibility that we do not abuse that privilege.'

On the matter of Mr Sin's transgression, he feels that where Mr Sin erred was in where he got his information from. If he had simply stated his own opinion, that would have been well within his right - even if the opinion was the same as that in the e-mail. However, because he cited an unverified source, he opened himself to criticism.

The last word on the matter of parliamentary privilege comes from Mr Mah, who is also the National Development Minister.

He is responsible for arranging government business in Parliament, and will advise the House on the action to take if a difficulty arises.

In an e-mail response to Insight, he lays out the rationale behind Singapore's strict system and explains why he made his statement in Parliament.

'Members must maintain such high standards of accountability to safeguard the dignity and decorum of the House, and to maintain the public's trust in our Parliament,' he says.

'If these standards are not maintained, we will be unfair to those who have been criticised by MPs under privilege and who are unable to clear their names. We will end up lowering the standing and authority that Parliament enjoys.'

Mr Mah also points out that the way Singapore remunerates its MPs helps ensure this high standard.

A scandal like the one in Britain will not occur here as MPs cannot ask to be reimbursed for their expenses.

'We have instead provided our MPs with a clean allowance of an appropriate amount, with no additional perks attached. This has enabled our MPs to serve their residents well, in their constituencies and in the House, and be properly compensated for such service,' he says.

jeremyau@sph.com.sg

PM must clear ALL DOUBTS on Altantuya Shaariibuu’s murder case...... (The beautiful Altantuya was 28 when she was shot in the face and bombed with C4 explosives to prevent identification by Chief Inspector Azilah Hadri and Cpl Sirul Azhar - two former bodyguards of Najib's).....ALL MALAYSIANS (AND THE WORLD) WANT TO KNOW THE MOTIVE OF THE KILLING...!!

2011-10-27T18:29:00.000-07:00

WikiSabah

No peace for Altantuya's soul until after GE-13 despite dad's protest
More than 4 years have passed but the Malaysian courts are still dragging their feet on a RM100 million lawsuit filed by the parents of Altantuya Shaariibuu, a Mongolian national killed on Malaysian soil allegedly in connection with a corruption case involving Prime Minister Najib Razak and the purchase of 2 Scorpene submarines from French giant DCN.

Her fed-up father Setev Shaariibuu has sent yet another tracer to Malaysia's growingly notorious courts, where his latest letter is bound to suffer the same fate as previous reminders - suppression and total silence! This time, however, Setev and his wife Altantsetseg Sanjaa have taken the additional step of appealing to Malaysian lawmakers for justice.
“Honoured members of the Parliament of Malaysia, I would like you to pay attention to my request and to treat this issue from the stand worthy of intelligent human beings,” Setev said in his letter submitted via his counsel Karpal Singh, who is also the MP for Bukit Gelugor.

“There are vital matters pending such as to resolve the deceased’s funeral and pacify her spirit through charitable attention to the orphaned children."

Money already paid, why do you delay my daughter's last rites

In his letter, Shaariibuu also pointed that he has complied with all the terms set by the courts to pursue the case including putting up a security bond of RM60,000 but nothing has been done, although the Mongolian government - which footed the deposit - had sent representatives over to discuss how to resolve the case.

“The fact that your government does not make positive steps towards the issue raised by Mongolia may perhaps adversely impact the interest of hundreds of Mongolians who are studying and living in Malaysia,” he said.

“Despite the fact that the government of Mongolia proposed to discuss the issue by appointing and sending its representatives to Malaysia, it has been one year without any response."
The beautiful Altanuya was 28 when she was shot in the face and bombed with C4 explosives to prevent identification by Chief Inspector Azilah Hadri and Cpl Sirul Azhar - two former bodyguards of Najib's. They are now waiting on death row for their appeal to be heard. Her ashes are still in Malaysia, and her parents have fought hard to take them home but to no avail.

Among reasons given by the Malaysian government is that the two cops have appealed their death sentence. Their appeal is delayed because the trial judge, Mohd Zaki Yasin, who found them guilty has till date not written up his judgement. The judge's tardiness not only delays the cops in securing a hearing date from the Appeals courts, but also slows the lawsuit filed by Altantuya's parents. Government prosecutors say their case cannot be heard until the appeal is done with as it might 'prejudice' the cops' case.

"I can't see why the judge cannot finish writing his grounds. It has been two years already. I have raised the issue in Parliament but just received a written reply, which is pointless," Karpal had told reporters.

Comments (25)...

written by carlitos, October 28, 2011 07:21:40

maybe need to force an internet response... get a petition started to support from world wide including from Mongolian & Malaysian citizens to get the news out. ...

written by yolo, October 28, 2011 02:42:27

They will never give her ashes because they want to hold and jail her spirit!!!...once her spirit is release......i don't think the perpetrator will ever have a sweet time in this world......for sure she will avenge.....but by "jailing" her spirit...it will become weaker overtime.......BUT.......KARMA will always be there......My pity for her family!!!! ...

written by lakian, October 28, 2011 02:21:40

what a pity.why the malaysia bar council just can't do anything?karpal singh also can't?the king?international legal bodies?human right protectorates?ngo?legal scholars and students?int diplomatic?usa? ..

written by MalayToo, October 28, 2011 00:58:21

Methinks those who were involved in the killing of this Mongolian girl probably did not read the right history and hence knew too little about the Mongol invasion of Khwarezmia, which marked the beginning of the Mongol conquest of the Islamic states.

It would be the invasion, absolute destruction and complete devastation of the Khwarezmid Empire which would earn the Mongols the name for bloodthirsty ferocity.

In around 1218, Genghis Khan sent a 500-man caravan of Muslims to establish official trade ties with Khwarezmia. However Inalchuq, the governor of the Khwarezmian city of Otrar, had the members of the caravan arrested, claiming that the caravan was a conspiracy against Khwarezmia. Genghis Khan then sent a second group of three ambassadors (one Muslim and two Mongols) to meet the shah (Sultan) himself and demand the caravan at Otrar be set free and the governor be handed over for punishment. The shah had both of the Mongols shaved and had the Muslim beheaded before sending them back to Genghis Khan.

To make the story short, Genghis executed Inalchuq, possibly by pouring molten gold or silver down his throat as retribution.

So, mind you the killers of Altantuya, her spirit is returning to Boleh Land along with that of Genghis Khan to haunt you now ...... ..

written by AlwaysFair, October 28, 2011 00:50:13

Justice for Altantuya and child (pregnant?)who was mercilessly executed and blown to smithereens.

Justice for innocent Teoh Beng Hock who was tortured till he ,"committed suicide."

Justice for innocent Ahmad Sarbaini who died in custody under suspicious circumstances because the video recordings have been deleted.

Justice for all other unlawful deaths while in detention of authorities.

Murderers are cursed by God.

In Deut 27:24 " Cursed is the man who kills his neighbour secretly."

May justice be served one day, if not, may the Almighty God, the defender of the defenceless, repay all the evildoers whether in this age or in the age to come. Amen. ...

written by Labu labi, October 27, 2011 23:21:14

How to write judgement. Later on, court records on this case gone missing / deleted / burnt in court strong room on fire, etc...etc

Same old story like immigration arrival records deleted, macc cctv professionally deleted. ...

written by smallfly, October 27, 2011 23:02:46

No wander Malaysia is buying arms by the Billions. Genghis Khan's army is coming. ..

written by seaneugarchen, October 27, 2011 22:45:40

Mr Setev & family, pls pray hard, the truth will prevail if PR win the coming GE13.............................so pray very hard that PR win this election. ...

written by Ramli, October 27, 2011 22:22:31

I think the only logical solution for Mr. Setev Shaariibuu and the Mongolian Govt to settle this issue once and for all is the International Court Of Justice. ...

written by crookcrab, October 27, 2011 21:27:42

Genghis Khan will resurrect to make sure vvip plain plunge into Indian ocean on 6/11/2011. Avenge to His daughter.... ...

written by Boomeranger, October 27, 2011 20:32:15

The little red dot yonder the Causeway holds the answer to Dr Setev Shaariibuu's agony for reparations.

One would expect the Archives of the most read newspaper ST in Singapore to be complete and unabridged. But horror it was to find out that a period of the Archives was obliterated/out of bounds.

Perhaps, by a kind stroke of divine intervention, someone out there, an employee of the Hotel having taken a pic for memo sake may present it to the lap of Dr Setev, and justice to proceed to completion. ...

written by ku2, October 27, 2011 20:05:26

anything that is associated with Barang Naik is the devil's advocates, be it the judiciary, attorney general, police, pm department, immigration, sprm, and the list goes on.. ...

written by Richard Plywood, October 27, 2011 19:56:54

errrrr... both the two monkeys are not in jail. If any one have any contacts through your grapevine of the so called jail where they keep these two monkeys, you will realized that they are already out and never was in jail after the sentence was put on them. now both of them are happily outside the jail with a different name moving around with no one notice. Go ahead and find for more info of this 2 monkeys. death sentence... it was but never was. ..

written by Hariharan, October 27, 2011 19:10:24

Razak Baginda and his wife are devils. ...

written by Hydra-Shok, October 27, 2011 17:54:04

Jibbi need to wil GE13 by all cost to flex all his power and might to suppressed any proof coming out from this case.

If Jibbi loose s2/3 majority in the GE13, he really have to packed fast and fly out to some beautiful paradise island in the carribean with his billions bcoz PR will need a sacrficial lamb. ...

written by Concerned, October 27, 2011 17:51:56

My sympathy goes to Mr. Setev Shaariibuu, since notting can be done here, why don't get help from the intermational court..... ..

written by malchindian, October 27, 2011 16:58:43

Have you noticed that the common thread linking all of the following characters; Jibby, Rospork, Taib, Kuthy, Soil leg and the rest of bungling bumno-putras is the liberal dependence on bomohs.

Isn't this haram? Doesn't using the services of one neutralise your religious beliefs?

I don't know what the poor man (Mr Setev Shaariibuu) believes in but in my mind, the only way to gain closure for all parties concerned (including us the disgusted rakyat) is in the use of a stronger medium/shaman/bomoh to fight their personal ones.

Is this is too simplistic an observation? ...

written by neilahmad, October 27, 2011 16:48:40

You can clearly see how these is been play out. They screwed her, then C4 her and then refuse to give back the ashes of Altantuya to her parents.

How can one live knowing fully well that he have a hand in the murder of Altantuya.

The spirit of Altantuya will return to haunt these murderers. They will never excel in anything.

I'm waiting for divine intervention. ...

written by flyer168, October 27, 2011 16:20:22

My sympathy goes to Mr. Setev Shaariibuu & his family. A matter of time before Jibby says or does the wrong thing to upset his "Global Masters". The same fate that was designed for Ghaddafi will be Jibby's & Mama's fate. What goes round will come around & justice will be done. ...

written by eloofk, October 27, 2011 16:12:38

Is is not torturing and agonising for Najib and Rosmah to hide behind the Judiciary and the office of the Prime Minister for protection against the spirit of Altantuya?

You cant run and hide forever, wherever you are!!! ..

written by nn, October 27, 2011 15:56:11

JUST RELEASE THE GHOST OF ALTANTUYA TO WHOM IT KILL HER.....JUST SEE WHO GOT IT ..

written by uxzee, October 27, 2011 15:45:57

Can't some MPs question this strange delay in Parliament ? It is unfair to Altantuya, unfair to her family and unfair to Najib who is 'eager to clear' his name.

UMNO has got their sick way of avoiding sensitive issues by delaying and frustrating the legal process.

If this case is not solved, Najib will have to breathe hard every time the name of Altantuya is mentioned. ...

written by Loyal Citizen, October 27, 2011 15:44:33

My sympathy goes to Mr. Setev Shaariibuu. Najis C4 needs the money to buy votes for GE13. If BN regains power you will have to wait until thy kingdom come. ...

written by Hariharan, October 27, 2011 15:34:58

So many have done sins in this case.I pray to you ,God,punish those.If not people will continue doing sins. ...

written by tulan, October 27, 2011 15:34:00

Father of poor Altantuya, Call OWC, SOS for testing how their Spiritually Apparition theory may work wonder to your favour in a 4 year long crusade. We help you by our ballot box but no harm try something spiritual, at least make the culprits haunted every night.... Work together we may have a good chance or else kapuk again we have to wait another 4 years.

LKY once told his Malay minister… “have no worries. In the next 30 years, the Malays in Singapore and the Malays in Malaysia will have the same colour of hair, same colour of skin, same religion, but inside here (pointing to his head) different, the way of thinking'' 'He's right. Malays in Singapore are now more open-minded, not like before. That communal feeling is all gone.'

2011-10-27T17:55:00.000-07:00

FRIDAY, JUNE 5, 2009

How the PAP won over the Malays

How the PAP won over the Malays

By Zakir Hussain, Political Correspondent

Mr Othman (left) and Mr Lee walking into the Victoria Theatre on July 19, 1964, for a meeting with Malay leaders, who reaffirmed their support for the PAP Government. -- ST FILE PHOTO

THE crowd of 50,000 at the Padang was jubilant. Facing them, Mr Othman Wok introduced their new leaders.

He was the evening's master of ceremonies. But midway, his party boss intervened.

'Mr Lee Kuan Yew asked me to sit down and let the radio announcers do it,' recalls the 84-year-old with a chuckle.

The order was not an indictment of his ability. It was to show party solidarity.

The People's Action Party (PAP) had achieved a historic victory. It had won 43 out of the 51 seats in the island's first legislative assembly election and was to form the first Government helmed by locals in colonial Singapore.

All 51 PAP candidates - including those who lost - were seated on the City Hall steps to celebrate Singapore's transition to a self-governing state.

For Mr Othman, then a 35-year-old newspaper editor, the rally on June 3, 1959, was a night of bittersweet moments.

Four days earlier, on May 30, 1959, Mr Ali Alwi of the United Malays National Organisation (Umno) had defeated him in Kampong Kembangan, by 244 votes.

Malays in the ward were highly suspicious of the PAP.
Recalling the odds, he says: 'No Malay would volunteer to help in my campaign.

'My wife and relatives helped me put up the election posters. But all the posters were torn down. Some were smeared with human excreta. When I went house to house with pamphlets, they looked at me and said '(This is a) Malay kampung', and tore them up in my face.'

Mr Othman had joined PAP shortly after its founding in 1954. A deputy editor of the now-defunct Utusan Melayu, a Malay-language daily, he was swiftly asked to join the editorial team of the PAP's newsletter, Petir.

Though the PAP was viewed by the Malays as a Chinese party that held little regard for Malay interests, Mr Othman was convinced it would help improve the lot of his community.

He wanted his people to become educated and make good on their own merit, as opposed to receiving handouts or being given special privileges.

It was not a popular view.

PAP candidates in two other Malay-dominated wards - Geylang Serai and Southern Islands - were also beaten by Umno men.

Undeterred, Mr Othman went on to help residents in the Kampong Kembangan constituency even though he had lost there.

'We had said that if the PAP won the election and formed the Government, we would deliver what we had promised to the whole of Singapore, including the constituencies where we lost,' he said.

For months, no Malays turned up at his weekly Meet-The-People sessions held on the verandah of a Chinese resident's house in Jalan Lapang.

But Chinese and Indian residents turned up, seeking help with citizenship, jobs and financial matters.

Much later, an Umno man showed up, to discuss clogged drains, mosquitoes, potholes and the lack of street lighting.

'I told him I would look into this problem, but suggested he also get the kampung folk to gotong royong - work together - with my branch chaps, who were mainly Chinese,' says Mr Othman.

'I told him to go back and discuss it with his kampung folks. Two weeks later, he came back and said they agreed.'

Over several Sundays, they helped clear the drains and repair a number of dirt roads, and once-hostile constituents began to develop a relationship with their PAP man.

Their elected Umno MP was not around.

After Mr Othman was posted to Kuala Lumpur in 1961 to work at Utusan Melayu's head office, the party asked Mr Ariff Suradi, a trade unionist, to look after the ward.

Mr Ariff won the seat handsomely in the 1963 general election, defeating incumbent MP Ali Alwi by 3,435 votes.

In that election, Mr Othman was fielded in Pasir Panjang, where he won. He went on to serve as minister for social affairs from 1963 to 1977.

The PAP's win in Kembangan, and in the other two largely Malay seats, annoyed Umno.

Mr Othman said several of its leaders went on to incite racial tensions, sparking the July 21, 1964 riots, a blot on Singapore's history.

Significantly, Mr Othman says self-government in 1959 enabled Malay Singaporeans to uplift themselves - alongside their countrymen - through education so they could claim an equal share in the country's development.

'Kuan Yew told me: 'Othman, have no worries. In the next 30 years, the Malays in Singapore and the Malays in Malaysia will have the same colour of hair, same colour of skin, same religion, but inside here (pointing to his head) different, the way of thinking,'' he recalls.

'He's right. We Malays in Singapore are now more open-minded, not like before. That communal feeling is all gone.'

There are no "stupid" races in this world. The only problem with some human race is they have been educated differently especially, when they are not trained to provoke their minds to THINK for themselves and also when things are given to them, why work for it. The saying "When you give a fish, you live for a meal, when you teach them to fish, they live for a lifetime" is so true............

2011-10-27T17:32:00.000-07:00

So I whack the Malays. I whack them because foreigners think that the Malays are a joke. I am angry with these foreigners. I feel insulted that they say these things about the Malays. I am also Malay. So when they run down the Malays they are also running me down.

NO HOLDS BARRED

Raja Petra Kamarudin

My Malay friends ask me why is it I am very harsh towards the Malays. I am Malay. So why am I cruel towards the Malays? Well, it is because I am Malay that I am cruel. If I am not Malay then I would not be bothered about the Malays.

Do I criticise the Arabs? I have been to Mekah ten times in my life so I know the Arabs very well even if I don’t live in their country. I know what the Arabs are like. They too are Muslims like me. In fact, Mekah is the centre of Islam. So why don’t I also whack the Arabs?

That’s because I don’t care about the Arabs. I do not have nice things to say about the Arabs. So better that I don’t say anything because anything that I would say would be far from complementary. I am not Arab so the Arabs can make fools of themselves for all I care. And they do make fools of themselves.

But when the Malays make fools of themselves I do care. And that is why I am very uncompromising towards the Malays. I care that the Malays make fools of themselves.

I regard it as my right to whack the Malays. Malays have every right to whack the Malays. But I don’t take kindly to the Chinese and Indians whacking the Malays. Malays can whack Malays. But when the Chinese and Indians whack the Malays I will whack them back. I will not let them get away with it.

Okay, I am not a thoroughbred Malay. I am only part-Malay. Only my father is Malay. My mother is Welsh. But then who is a thoroughbred Malay? Most Malays are of mixed blood. The only thing is that my blood is mixed with Welsh blood, not with Javanese, Sumatran, Siamese, Minangkabau, Acheh, Indian, Chinese, etc., blood.

So what if my blood is mixed with Caucasian blood and not with Javanese, Sumatran, Siamese, Minangkabau, Acheh, Indian, Chinese, etc., blood? Mixed blood is mixed blood. Whether it is Asian-European or Asian-Asian, it is still mixed blood.

In fact, my great grandmother was Orang Asli. Her name was Hasnah Binti Pelong. She was the second wife of Sultan Ala'Eddin Suleiman Shah, the Fifth Sultan of Selangor.

Sultan Suleiman was Bugis. So that, in fact, makes me more Malay than many Malays in Malaysia in spite of my Welsh blood. I have Orang Asli blood in me. I have more right to Malaysia than millions of other pendatang Malays who invaded my country and now claim it as their own.

Bumiputera konon! Hello brader. We Orang Asli were here first. So don’t try to play that who is more Malay game with me. You will lose.

I interact with Japanese, Koreans, Americans, British, French, Germans, Indonesians, Thais, Singaporeans, Filipinos, and people from many other countries. Somehow they don’t see me as Malay. Maybe it is because of how I look. So they talk to me. They tell me a lot. They tell me what they think. And they think very poorly of the Malays.

These foreigners tell me that the only reason they employ Malays is because of the requirements of the New Economic Policy. If not for that they would not employ Malays. They said they could employ one Chinese for three Malays they employ. One Chinese can do the job of three Malays.

They think Malays are lazy. They think Malays are very slow. They think Malays lack initiative. They think Malays lack grey matter.

There I sit listening to foreign investors and managers running down the Malays while forgetting that I am also Malay. If it were one or two who say this I would say these people are bigots who are prejudiced against the Malays. But when everyone tells me this then the problem must be real. The problem must be the Malays.
So I whack the Malays. I whack them because foreigners think that the Malays are a joke. I am angry with these foreigners. I feel insulted that they say these things about the Malays. I am also Malay. So when they run down the Malays they are also running me down.

I cannot whack the foreigners. I cannot whack them not because I am scared they will not come to Malaysia. I cannot whack them because I know they are telling the truth.

Of course the truth hurts. The truth always hurts. And because it is the truth I cannot whack the foreigners for running down the Malays. The anger builds up in me. I need to whack somebody. But I can’t whack those who are telling the truth. So I whack the Malays instead. I whack the Malays because I am ashamed that the foreigners say bad things about the Malays and also because what they are saying is the truth and there is no way I can argue with them or prove them wrong.

But that does not mean I like others whacking the Malays. If you whack the Malay I will whack you back. If you are another Malay then that is okay. But if you are not Malay and you whack the Malays then I will whack you back. I have my pride and dignity and if you insult the Malays then you are insulting me as well. And I don’t take kindly to insults. So you whack the Malays at your own peril.

Comments (9)...

written by Leadership, October 28, 2011 07:58:40

Barisan government is creating a fool's paradise with Malays highly addicted for money, religion and power. PAS and PKR are little better. The skills and knowledge development efforts aimed at Malays are little more than farcical. Sheer irresponsibility and ability to get away with "murder" are driving Malays into toilet pits. It is the officially sponsored wanton deviation from universal principles that is causing Malays to loose respect in the world. It is the few in power who are manipulating the rest in the name of race, religion, money and security. What Malays need urgently is capable, responsible and therefore respectable leadership. So far, that seems to be terribly on short supply. So, RPK, no matter how much you whack Malays, nothing significantly positive can emerge to save Malays. Malaysia as a result is heading towards the same terrible fate as the African and Middle Eastern nations that suffer from the same. ...

written by Taichekgong66, October 28, 2011 07:58:00

I like this article. It's the truth speaking from the HEARt that matters. Whacking is a way of check and balance. That's how one improves and become better! It boils down to the HEART. If the listener had bad heart they read this article as negative then they think RPK is anti Malays. But it the HEART is good they will thank RPK's effort!

The truth isn't hurtful if you accept it and vow to improve to betterment! ...

written by Akmal, October 28, 2011 07:53:58

I know how you feel, RPK, being a mixed Malay who hardly looks Malay at all, I have that exact same feeling. When people of other races and nationalities whack the entire Malay race, I too feel the anger, but I can't whack the others for saying the truth (or at least 60% truth). This is a ripple effect too, as other Malays who get whacked also realise that a significant majority of their own race is bringing their reputation down.

Also, as xlandjy said, other races have their share of issues too. However I do think that the Malays could have progressed far better if given the right education from the start. What we have today is two generations of mental poisoning that might take at least another generation to reverse if not two or more. ...

written by richfyf2000, October 28, 2011 07:53:51

I think its all about politics. UMNO been playing the racial politics for too long. I am sure Malaysian are tired of it.

But if Chua Soi Lek were to stand for election against Nizar I am sure most Chinese will vote for Nizar instead of CSL ...

written by Aldwin, October 28, 2011 07:47:41

I believe there are no "stupid" races in this world. The only problem with some human race is they have been educated differently especially, when they are not trained to provoke their minds to THINK for themselves and also when things are given to them, why work for it. The saying "When you give a fish, you live for a meal, when you teach them to fish, they live for a lifetime" is so true. I have seen lazy people all over, and also have seen hard working people too, irrespective of races. ...

written by Hariharan, October 28, 2011 07:47:39

RPK is trying to bring justice to many injustice incidents in Malaysia.I dont think he is anti race. ...

written by JJFoo, October 28, 2011 07:34:46

The key lies in thinking as "Malaysian" and not as Malay,Chinese, Islam, Hindu, Buddhist and what not. But after decades of racist indoctrination it sure won't be easy.
Trap like fishes, swimming in circles in a bowl, the only way out is to be liberal and colour blind, otherwise keep swimming in circles and suffer while crooks and thieves rule ...

written by tulan, October 28, 2011 07:18:10

In this sophiticated world people tends to be diplomatic and says compliments to the otherwise. If they say Pig can Fly you better be careful!
I am a Chinese and I hate japanese killed Chinese in WWII, but I admire how these short guys can stand up tall and fast in 20 years after a dust biting surrender... The same goes to Germans. We cannot afford not to learn from them.
All races learn from the values and merits of others, to heal their weakness, avoid the stupidity of humanity, like what RPK illustrated all the while.

But sad to see a pompous beruk of Bodohland, got the guts to instigate interpolis to take the Cream of Malay to his kampung zoo's "justice cage". Also, a sheer shame to Malay, to see Mat sabu being summoned to court case. ...

written by xlandjy, October 28, 2011 07:02:01

Dear RPK,

I think this is the problems with you Malaysians and also with us Singaporeans. Pl note, I am saying Malaysians. I am not referring to Malays.
Both sides of the causeway have the same ruling party for half a century. They were all subjected to the same Divide and Rule. Both ruling parties exploited the racial segregation to their own benefits. Whilst they verbally called for multi racialism and integration; in their heart and mind, they try their very best to keep the people apart.
After long some many years, the people of both sides speak and think like UMNO and our PAP. They think and write everything in racial terms. Even for your DAP, when their talk about racial equality, they immediately follow with equal treatment to the Chinese in economic policy and civil service. What about other havenots who are not Chinese?
Even for you RPK, there are Malays who are not so diligent; but there are diligent Malays. It is the same for Chinese and Indians; who also have their fair share of diligent and not diligent people. So, if you wanna whack lazy people; just go ahead to whack them. Why confine only to the Malays...
I am sure if you have the last plate of rice and faced with two other hungry persons; you would generously share with them... I am sure you would go ahead and share with them without looking at their skin right...
To build a new Malaysia and Singapore.. first we have to do away with the tinted glass.. and it start with you and me.

"There is a feeling that 'English is enough' because it is spoken everywhere, but this is not true,"..........."Businesses are not looking for people who are fluent, but those who can do basic conversation and break the ice. It gives a good impression of that company."

2011-10-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

In the global jobs market, foreign talk isn't cheap, it's invaluable

27 October 2011

By Jack Grove

Lack of language skills hampers UK graduates' efforts to find employment. Jack Grove reports

Graduates from UK universities are losing out on top international jobs because they cannot speak a second language, academics and business leaders have warned.

Serious concerns about the lack of multilingual graduates were raised at a policy meeting at the Houses of Parliament on 19 October to discuss student skills and employability.

Business leaders, academics, MPs and peers said the UK's education system, including universities, was failing to encourage students to study languages, whereas overseas students were expected to speak several languages regardless of what they were studying.

"No university should be producing graduates who cannot function at a basic level in another language," said Baroness Coussins, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Modern Languages, after the event, which was organised by the Industry and Parliament Trust.

"There is a feeling that 'English is enough' because it is spoken everywhere, but this is not true," she said. "Businesses are not looking for people who are fluent, but those who can do basic conversation and break the ice. It gives a good impression of that company."

The failure to promote multilingual graduates was "harming Britain's economic competitiveness", she added, as university leavers were struggling to win top places at multinational companies and institutions because their language skills let them down.

This meant that only 1.5 per cent of the 51,000 applicants for European Union jobs in Brussels this year were British, she said, which resulted in just seven successful UK candidates.

Tim Connell, former director of language studies at City University London, said life skills gained by multilingual graduates on year-abroad placements were also attractive to employers.

"Students have to be so adaptable because the skill sets required by businesses are changing so quickly," said Professor Connell, who is vice-president of the Chartered Institute of Linguists.

"What you learn in your degree is normally out of date within five years, so what students carry with them are their skills," he added.

"I think higher education is very modest about the transferable skills that it gives to students."

"Soft skills" were also important for graduates entering the job market, said Florence Mele, director of studies at international business school ESCP Europe, where students must study in three countries during its two-year courses.

Presentation skills, public speaking and business etiquette were vital, she explained, as were the ability to project manage, meet deadlines and engage well with people from other countries and cultures.

Technical skills such as competency with Excel spreadsheets and PowerPoint were also required, she added.

Despite concerns from participants that students should concentrate on academic learning, Ms Mele said these deficits in other skills should be addressed by universities.

"These are the skills that will help students find jobs - it is a university's responsibility to train them in these skills," she said.

David Coen, professor of public policy at University College London, said universities should encourage all students to develop language skills throughout their degrees.

Sustained study of a foreign language beyond secondary school was vital when applying to multinational corporations, he insisted.

"If someone applies with only GCSE French, they will not have the requisite skills to compete for those jobs," he said.

jack.grove@tsleducation.com.

WHY SHOULD WE LET THE GOVERNMENT BLATANTLY WASTE PUBLIC FUNDS..??? IF THAT IS THE CASE...(IN SIMPLE LOGIC) WHY SHOULD WE PAY INCOME TAXES THEN...?? IF THE AUTHORITIES CAN PROSECUTE THOSE WHO FAILED TO PAY INCOME TAXES, WHY CAN’T WE SUE THE GOVERNMENT FOR THE UNSCRUPULOUS SPENDING AND PLUNDERING OF PUBLIC FUNDS?

2011-10-26T19:20:00.000-07:00

The government will pay RM7.55-billion for 257 APCs, four times more than an originally intended deal made earlier this year.

(Free Malaysia Today) - Under a new agreement, the government will pay RM7.55 billion for 257 armored personnel carriers (APCs), four times more for the same deal made earlier this year.

However, the government claims to have no knowledge of the February deal for 257 Turkish Pars 8×8 APCs, which at the time, cost US$559 million (RM1.749 billion).

This irked DAP’s PJ Utara MP Tony Pua, who launched an attack on the government.

“Minister of Defence Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was there to witness the signing between (Turkish company) FNSS and (Malaysian company) Deftech,” he said.

Speaking to reporters in Parliament, he said the difference in price is so big that a responsible government must ask, “What are the differences that make up the gap (between the two prices)?”

On Oct 18, Pua asked the defence minister in Parliament why the government was willing to spend RM7.8 billion for the 257 APCs.

In a written response, Zahid replied: “The finalised price for the procurement of 257 APCs is RM7.55 billion for a period of seven years from 2011 to 2018, and not RM7.8 billion as said.”

“The Defence Ministry has no information over the 257 APCs by Deftech… with Turkey’s FNSS for the price of US$559 million. Therefore, the question is out of the ministry’s knowledge.”

According to a Jun 3 BAE Systems news release, military equipment manufacturer FNSS signed a US$559-million letter of offer and acceptance from Deftech Sdn Bhd for the design, development and building of the 257 APCs.

Comments (72)...

written by onnetline, October 26, 2011 23:59:27

MA' Sissies ', on a case as BIG as this and with ' inflated ' RM billions, your tails are without a doubt or definitely ' between your legs ' ......... even when it's clearly shown that the Def.Minister is lying to the public through Tony Pua's questioning, right ? Or you're given a piece of the action too ? ..

written by plabeuk, October 25, 2011 23:47:49

Focus on the billions and ignore the cases involving millions that the MSM are distracting you with. Recently, we bought trains for billions where each cost bout RM 40 million - more than some jet fighters. A few years ago, we developed a chip for about 1 billion - that no one is using. ...

written by jack lee, October 25, 2011 22:39:23

That's the reason why Malaysian millionaires have double the past year. ...

written by Y. Thiam, October 25, 2011 16:45:06

Should Pakatan succeed in kicking out UMNO/BN in GE-13, the new government should quickly set up special teams with the power to round up the many past and present UMNO/BN scum, crooks and devils and their accomplices before they can take flight. We must make sure they will not be spared the appropriate, lawful punishment they so deserve, if the law finds them guilty of robbing the country's wealth. To be honest, you don't need to genius to figure out how a country blessed with so much natural resources could be mired in a national debt to the tune of RM407 billion if not for the wholesale, widespread corruption of the UMNO/BM regime, past and prsent! Retribution time - Vote out UMNO/BN! ...

written by flyer168, October 25, 2011 16:00:22

"Under a new agreement, the government will pay RM7.55 billion for 257 armored personnel carriers (APCs), four times more for the same deal made earlier this year."

Hello,

Just who are the Foreign or Neighbouring threats & "Enemies of Ketuanan UMNO/BN"...?

They have already got Bolehland's Leaders by the "Orbs" (read APCO!)

Their real "Enemies" are all within the Ketuanan UNMO itself !

So all that spending just to counter the BERSIH 2 "Free & Fair Elections" demands?

Looks like it is all a Syok Sendiri & the last Kopek $$$ exercise...at the expense of the Taxpayers again !

Shalom. ..

written by guest, October 25, 2011 15:54:02 darn greed knows no boundaries our hard earned money is bluntly "misused" !!!!!! im so darn MAD ...

written by Melayu Boleh, October 25, 2011 14:42:56

What to worry ... we have learned good lesson from Libya (Gaddafi), once we (PKR) take over the government we extradict PM, RM, and all his ministers, including KSUs, DGs and head of dept.

No need to go to court, get M16 (or c4) arrange those busted lanun, penyamun, perompak in few rows .... and you know what to do next .... ...

written by Leon, October 25, 2011 14:20:14

Tony Pua,

How come you dare to question defence ministry? You are not patriotic! Your Nationality can be rebuked !

These 7.5b are R&D fund lah. You never watched Batman's Dark Knight sequel? One of the auditor (is you) questioning why Wayne (Batman) spent so much company fund in R&D, and got intimidated by assistant.

Don't you know Batman has came out many weapons from R&D?

1. Ring can shoot laser, but to cover it with diamond

2. machine gun hide in handbags

3. speed turbo jet can fly to Australia or Europe in shortest time, and can't be detected by radar and media

4. many more... ..

written by Bourne, October 25, 2011 13:23:10

Don't be surprised that the APC's don't come with engines. To install engines another RM 7 billion! When countries are struggling with their daily lives, our corrupt govt spends like there's no tomorrow.

In fact this could be their back up plan... to bankrupt the nation before Pakatan takes over. If that is the case, Pakatan should start thinking about how to recover these stolen monies from off shore accounts and get the cooperation of foreign countries to freeze the crooks assets and also to bring them to face charges. ...

written by jibbidyjibbidyjibb, October 25, 2011 13:16:29

After GE13, all of us will SUFFER!!!: GST, price hike for sugar, electric, toll, water, and all essential goods. Please take note you BN supporters (that kiss the hands of BN reps as if they are gods). Everyone will suffer if Bn continue to rule! ..

written by ta, October 25, 2011 11:59:33

i will not pay for income tax when gov ask why, i will say I DUNNO ! who you think you wanna make fool with ? even kampong folks will not believe that RM30 mil for a lorry if you spend your datuk or nenek money I don't give you a damn care, but you spent the tax money that i paid, that is why i want to know jawab, jangan tak jawab ...

written by casperclc, October 25, 2011 11:38:26

RPK and better half, high time to make a return home.

HIMPUN didn't make it any where near the 1 million mark BUT I'm certain we can now that Zahid Hamidi has given us the impetus. Let's make it a one million man march plus 2 as there is no better occasion.

Time to come home to lead the charge RPK. Give me a time and I'll personally come greet the pair of you at whichever point of entry - by air, sea or jalan kaki.

The failure to react to this latest brazen act of thievery, one might as well hold one's breath, stop inhalling and drop dead. ...

written by RavingRabbits, October 25, 2011 11:36:40

The government must be delusional, scared of its own shadow and creating imaginary enemies, else how would they justify the purchase of subpar overpriced submarines who can't sink and now this APCs who probably can't move cut cost mah, like proton take out things here and there and call it a car.

But i guess its true, they do have imaginary enemies, look no further than the race and religion "war" or wayang kulit to the normal people on the street in our homeland. ...

written by Mohd Kalid, October 25, 2011 11:03:09

Pls tell me how van I stop paying my income tax...is there any way the rakyat can boycott paying income tax as the stupid UMNO led BN government is wasting my money? Any consultants out there ...

written by casperclc, October 25, 2011 10:53:18

257 APC's but WHO exactly are we up against.

Last time I checked, our immediate neighbours that consist of ASEAN member countries are all at peace and the only mention of any battle is probably in trade and commerce. Tell me, who exactly are we up against for the need to spend RM$7 billion++.

Time for a reality check all you mader effin 'chow kai' - starting with Zahid Hamidi with his plea of ignorance - don't know what happened in between the time of first quote and final price struck. It is sheer lunacy all this money being siphon off right under our eyes.

*BTW, this Zahid Hamidi is now a marked man. Whoever that is up against him next contest should have plenty of ammo to prick the conscience of voters. This is not the plunder of millions but a world class astronomical billion.

Washington should take note how this UMNO garbage of a government make off with billions in hot money and laundering the proceeds for sinister purposes. Matter of fact, every single member of UMNO's Supreme Council should warrant the same red flag as potential terrorist. ...

written by Angryman, October 25, 2011 10:11:26

257 APCs to ferry few soldiers? RM7.55 billion is enough to arm all able body man in Malaysia, no need APCs. ...

written by Nawi Bin Abdullah, October 25, 2011 10:04:28

Dear All, Why are we arming ourselves to the teeth? Do we have potential enemies around us? Then why are we buying second-rated (second-hand) hardwares at exorbitant prices? Has anybody asked that simple question; and why the government is unaware of the price difference? Our leaders have gone mad!

Regards,

NBA ...

written by tellitlikeitis, October 25, 2011 08:43:03

just another case of misuse of civilian funds.

they have become arrogant and trying to squeeze every last drop they can get from the coffers.

c***k on this link http://thestar.com.my/news/sto...ec=nation to see more atrocious actions by the BN GOM ...

written by ds, October 25, 2011 08:03:51

It is more like pimped up APC ..

written by Apek, October 25, 2011 07:54:41

Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, you bloody idiot.

How can you even dare say that you do not know what had happened under your ministry. You spent 7.5 BILLION of our hard earned money to buy basic APC's that have no real proven track record. How many homes for the poor could have been built with that money? How many Good teachers paid with that money? How much scientific and cutting edge equipment could have been bought for R&D in our public universities. All you do is to allow 7.5 BILLION get squandered. The Rakyat's mponey is not to be used to support your political base. It is to be used (in your case if you have not already figured that out) for DEFENCE. You bloody idiot. You bloody idiot.

The whole cabinet must resign - if not, this government MUST be held immediately responsible. ..

written by abdullah37, October 25, 2011 07:21:51 RM30,000,000 for each APC? It is like hitting Magnum's 4D Jackpot at it's highest and we are buying 257 units. Just like striking Magnum 4D Jackpot 257 all in a row. No wonder the list of billionaires in Malaysia is ever increasing. Anyway, it is a good thing coz we are now powerful enough to face and fight any nation on earth. Syabas, Malaysia paling BOLEH ..

written by abdullah37, October 25, 2011 07:11:08 Hello, jealous ah? Everyone is doing it, why can't I and why just pick on me? ...

written by casperclc, October 25, 2011 06:05:36 Time for Tan Sri Robert Phang to make a trip to Istanbul and start inquiries. Mind you, Turkey's PM Recep Erdogan is well known as a straight lace kind of guy, one who will not tolerate any mention of corruption.

Let's just wait and see if there are two parties complicit in this enormous mark-up or just our end. It wouldn't be difficult to solicit a response from Erdogan because such a query would also arouse suspicion on Erdogan and members of his cabinet. ...

written by jojo, October 25, 2011 01:04:29

Easy Money, Hey thats the RAKYAT money .What are you trying to do with our money Mr. Zahid ?

Mr. Zahid , please, dont try to fool the Rakyat.We had enough of The fables ot the scorpene submarines that cannot dive, the Eurocopters, now The armoured carriers..and maybe next the UFO !!!!!!!!!!

GOD SAVE OUR COUNTRY>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> ...

written by wits0, October 25, 2011 00:48:55

A Hellfire missile carried by a drone or an attack copter like the Apache costs around US$70,000 each.

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What...e_Missile

This is good enough to destroy even a battle tank.

So, it takes just US70,000 to destroy a US9.5Million armored personnel carrier of Malusia.

Vely clever boy, Malusia! ...

written by Dntan, October 25, 2011 00:15:25

Please, for the sake of our beloved country and the future of our children, do the right thing in the next GE! ...

written by KC, October 24, 2011 23:35:05

Talk only no use. Let take action to ask people who responsible for the deal to go to 'jail'. Thing will happen again and again if no corrective action taken. Come on. ...

written by Hydra-shok, October 24, 2011 23:20:49

and the plundering goes on and on. Seems Ammenos know they will be loosing big in the next GE13, so why not speed-up their ill gotten wealth and retire peacefully in some paradise island. ...

written by BP Lim, October 24, 2011 22:43:01

Look like Malaysia is going to set up a armour personnel carrier industry. Will it go the same way as proton?

According to link blow from upi.com, German Army bought German-built Boxer Multi-Role Armoured Vehicle cost of round around US$625,000 each when the German army bought 200 in 2006; and US Army paid for its Stryker 8x8 APCs is around US$1.9 million each.

We try to out do the German and US by paying US$ 9.8 million per vehicle.

Read more: http://www.upi.com/Business_Ne...z1bi1PMubb

According to another article from defense-update.com which commented " that the cost of the new vehicle seems excessively high - about $9.8 million per unit. Malaysian defense officials explained that these figures represent the total life cycle cost of the program, including which usually includes design, development, logistical support and sustainment as well as non-recurring engineering costs and investments associated with the set-up of local production facilities in Malaysia to develop its armored vehicle manufacturing. Yet, even when considering a 250% mark-up to cover such the price tag on the new Malaysian vehicle seem odd."

http://defense-update.com/features/2010/april/malaysian_8x8_deftech_21042010.html .

written by duuude, October 24, 2011 22:21:12 RM 7,550,000,000 / 257 APCs = RM 29,377,431.91 per APC

Approximately 6mil Euros, 5mil GBP or 10mil USD per APC.

Seems a bit expensive for what are basically armored cars.

As a very basic comparison, the US Army's Stryker AFV costs $3.8 million

( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stryker ) and their Bradley AFV costs $3.166M ( http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/m2.htm )

Makes me wonder what are the fantastic add-ons being bundled with our AFVs! ...

written by mob1900, October 24, 2011 22:16:02

The Real Reason Why We Can't Question Our Military Contracts!

Turns out these are the ‘Tricked-Out’ options our wise Def. Ministry conveniently forgot to tell us.

Car audio + boom2x speaker sets are separate options. Choices like 'Feng-Tau' and 'EmCit-EmCit-EmCit' packages are available for purchase. ..

written by watsasadday, October 24, 2011 21:58:13

More than 2 mil per APC? Wow! Just how many carrier they need to carry their loots!!!!
No tender...all wishy washy.... all under table... all dubious inflated commission.... all within the corrupted circles....

Great news.... Allowing them to get 2mil carrier to cart their loots!!!! ...

written by Zigger, October 24, 2011 21:45:28

UMNO use diversion tactics like sex videos and religious issues to cover up their stealing from the taxpayers monies. They dipped their fingers into the treasuries of the taxpayers and the taxpayers are mesmerised by the sex videos and religious issues. ...

written by sandokan, October 24, 2011 21:36:56

Lets stop the deal. Get the company name and get the international press to find out the actuall price tag. ...

written by Eskay345, October 24, 2011 21:23:08

GOD, Please help us. When will the plundering by the Amenos stop?

These Ameno thieves are taking turns raiding the Treasury through military procurements of jet-planes, submarines and now the APCs.

They advise the rakyat to tighten belts but they plunder the nations by the billions.
The Defence Minister denied knowledge of the particular deal even though he was present as a witness. ...... I bet his ministry DG and his Secretary-General will deny ever having read the S&P Contracts before the documents were sent for signing....... Blaardy.. licenced thieves. ...

written by Minister of Blind, Deaf & Dumb., October 24, 2011 21:13:20

Aiyah! Remember Perimaker/Scorpene or not. It's the same con. FNSS, the Turkey arms manufacturer build and sell to Deftech SDN. BHD. 257 APC for RM 1,749B [USD. 559]. Then Deftech take and sell to MINDEF for RM 7.55B. UNTUNG [ 7.55 - 1.749 ] 5.801 BILLION RINGGIT ONLY. Then Minister for The Fence, Zahid Pencuri, looks heaven ward, and rolls his eyes and says 'I donno. Got meh ?' So after paying off the Translator/Mistress ala Altantuya,[they learn their lesson already.pay! dont blow up.] they got money to buy rings, birkin bags etc. The end. ...... oh! I forgot. They told chua soi lek to shut the F**k up when he told them not to overspend. ...

written by JahitGadaffi, October 24, 2011 21:04:49

Jahit, Mr.John Kelly dan Mr.Nail Kurt sudah announce lah! you tak beritahu mereka you mahu markup 4 kali ganda ke??? kaang nak cover camana???http://www.trdefence.com/2011/...-8x8-apcs/ ..

written by selangor dude, October 24, 2011 20:46:59

They need to siphon off that much money to finance GE 13 or park the excess abroad in case BN fails in GE13. They will come up with more contracts to legitimise looting from the govt coffers . This will be evident soon. ...

written by taken1978, October 24, 2011 20:31:57

BAE Systems Inc.’s FNSS Joint Venture Receives $559 Million Award from DEFTECH to Provide AV-8 Vehicles for the Malaysian Armed Forces03 Jun 2011
Ref. 105/2011

ARLINGTON, Virginia – FNSS of Turkey, a joint venture between BAE Systems, Inc. and Nurol Holding of Turkey, has received and signed a $559 million letter of offer and acceptance (LOA) from DEFTECH of Malaysia for the design, development and manufacture of 257 DEFTECH AV-8 8x8 wheeled armored vehicles and Integrated Logistics Support for the Malaysian Armed Forces.

http://www.baesystems.com/Newsroom/NewsReleases/autoGen_11153155557.html ...

written by onnetline, October 24, 2011 20:29:04

These are what the corrupted ARMNOs SOBs do best ........... robbing and stealing from the tax payers or country's coffers. Sial ! ...

written by moyang ngkau, October 24, 2011 20:24:36

no point bising bising..you shout, scream like hell nobody cares. These corrupted Bastard mission stay as minister is to get as much as he can and then got away and live happily ever after. Only one way to stop them is ABU.in GE 13.....kill all the "BASTARD"

written by JEFFLIM118, October 24, 2011 20:21:38

This is really the work of F**king bastards. Knowing very well they are facing the risk of losing Putrajaya, they sign the contract till 2018 inorder to pocket whatever possibly they can take in advance.

There is no better word to describe these crooks but except to brand them real BASTURDS BASTURDS BASTURDS. ...

written by Hanuman@, October 24, 2011 20:20:04

What are the freaking senate doing? Earning their monthly wages without moving their asses to question defence spending. ...

written by Pro arte, October 24, 2011 20:18:15

The French seem to be favoured in multi billion dollar defence contracts these days. If the price has balloon by 400% one can only imagine the massive amounts paid in bribes to the French as well as Najib's proxies.

Can the French afford to implicate Najib in the murder of Altantunya? Will the impeding trial be a whitewash in order to keep those billion dollar contract coming? Remains to be seen.

I am not hopeful. ...

written by whlau, October 24, 2011 20:15:59

This is good fodder for the opposition when election time comes. At all their ceramahs, they should highlight all the sickening excesses that the present ruling gomen is condoning and let everyone, especially the kampong folks know about this. Make a comparison between their lifestyles and those whose names are involved in all the dubious deals that they are privy to. Make a big issue out of this because this has been the norm every each year that the ruling gomen rules this country. And we are real sick of this! At the way this is happening, bankruptcy of the country is not too far away if nothing is been done to nip it in the butt. ..

written by temenggong, October 24, 2011 20:07:37

We'd like to know where did the 'original' price of $559 million come from, before we can comment further.

It is simply not possible to buy an armoured car at $2.17 million a piece, and without any facilities and parts. ...written by c**tnineh, October 24, 2011 20:06:48

When will all Malaysians wake up from their slumber to remove this band of thieving scumbags from power??? This band of thieving scumbags are pilfering our national coffers till they are empty and yet we remain apathetic and blissful! Sigh! ...

written by Hariharan, October 24, 2011 20:01:50

Can anybody tell us is the 257 APC cars are very necessasity for our army? ...

written by Osama, October 24, 2011 19:56:41

No other solutions, other than shoot or hang the thiefs. they are the country sampah masyarakat ...

written by alfred ho, October 24, 2011 19:55:18

the government of the day is plundering the country's financial resources. it is criminal to waste so much of the country's finance on expensive armaments. which country in their right mind would want to invade malaysia. alfred ho ..

written by Desertbug, October 24, 2011 19:50:49

Wah, I'm impressed by Malaysia's capability to spend when the global economy is such a jittery state. Maybe, the Gomen knows something we don't !

Dumb-assed Rakyat noises can be abated by dishing out RM500.....no worries. Dumber-assed rakyat voted BN in the last time. So what if BN lose in the next, BN already got the honey pot to themselves right now !

Dumb assed rakyat ! ...

written by Gambitt, October 24, 2011 19:43:52

i am feeling sick in the stomach.....excuse me i need to vomit blood ...

written by SpicaTwo, October 24, 2011 19:41:11

sheer bastardly to rob like this. we shud internationalise this issue and spread the names and pictures of that Zahidi and Najib as robbers of the nation so that they cannot escape when the time eventually comes with GE 13. ...

written by umno is going down, October 24, 2011 19:29:47

so they know they are going to lose GE13

just b4 they lose GE 13 and run to other countries

they want to suck the rakyat dry

even if it means selling the rakyat's soul

these people are worse than robbers

robbers can only steal all your money u have

but these people will steal not only your money, but your children's money and future, even if they are not born yet

how? they borrow heavy debts in the rakyat's name and use for themselves

and who needs to pay them? definitely this generation of rakyat wont be able to pay off RM 407b debt

who pay them? our future generations, its crazy when u think about it, very innocent children who is not even borne yet already got the word DEBT stapled on their head

written by smallfly, October 24, 2011 19:28:38

That's what we call precious APCs, must be supplied from some famous jeweler in NY. .

written by cheekhiaw, October 24, 2011 19:12:16

Do you all know how many thieves those Advanced Pencuri Carriers need to carry or not? ...

written by Revolution, October 24, 2011 18:52:22

While we fight for religious or sexual matters they created , they stole us as much as they can ...

Devils in disguise ... ...

written by tanstaafl, October 24, 2011 18:37:57

And here we were thinking the Scorpene deal was obscene .... who is going to die to cover up this particular deal? ...

written by zonefinder, October 24, 2011 18:35:59

Cost to DRB Hicom is Rgt 6.8m so charge to Mindef for service maintenance is Rgt 23m...each! Might as well buy another new APC to replace ...no need to repair. I bet most of these 23 m goes to the pockets of the UMNO cronies. I also want to join UMNO!! ...

written by Malay Gentile, October 24, 2011 18:32:20

In today's world the arms trade is big business ..... ...

written by klsar1, October 24, 2011 18:30:59

GOVERNMENT IS STEALING MY TAX MONEY !! I WANT REFUND !! ...

written by True Malaysian, October 24, 2011 18:26:32

the APC made of gold? ...

written by SamYap, October 24, 2011 18:26:10

I feel sick! Really, I am truly nauseated when I read the first few lines.

That is a helluva lot of juice, man! Does anyone even begin to realize what it could have done for developing our country? Upgrading our educational institutions and healthcare?

Do the grass roots supporters of UMNO, MCA, MIC and Gerakan even knows what it could have been used for their children? Their friends' children? Their neighbour's children?

Why do we so many APCs? Are we expecting hostilities to break out within a year or so? And who are the enemies, Israel? Singapore? Thailand? Philipines? Vietnam? Communist or is it capitalist China? maybe Australia?
Bastards! Bastards! ...

written by zonefinder, October 24, 2011 18:16:21

People, we are talking about 7,550 million ringgit here. Almost rgt 30 million for each APC. That means each APC is equivalent to 600 units of Perodua Myvis or 90 units of BMW 5 Series!! Might as well let our soldiers drive a BMW each. The enemies will want to join us! It doesn't make sense!! ..

written by Bourne, October 24, 2011 18:11:15

This is exactly what we should be focusing on instead of OWC, religion, gutter politics and trivial issues. This is the sort of issues if left unchecked will certainly bankrupt the nation.

Time and again we have seen the BN govt paying inflated prices for contracts etc and most of it is either defence or construction as these has the best cover for inflating costs. I have worked for construction companies in the past and its so easy to disguise these kickbacks. ...

written by bumiputar, October 24, 2011 18:04:15

motherfcukers!!!!!

Now I cannot take out all my saving in EPF, by the time i can take, it may valued at Indon level.... FCUK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

!!!!

Mampoi la...ini kali. ..

written by richfyf2000, October 24, 2011 17:47:23

257 APC at 7.5 Billion?? That's RM 30 Million each. No wonder can give free Diamond Ring to FLOM. ..

written by bumiputar, October 24, 2011 17:44:44 Those F**king be-end supporters, still sleeping???

Soon when you wake up, you/and your son will have to work as construction worker and your wife/daugther as maid in indon oredi...do you still think this is fun? ...

written by AndyL, October 24, 2011 17:42:17

Would UMNO supporters care about billions...and billions...being siphoned off via few time inflated costs???

....still being so grateful to UMNO???? ...

written by supps, October 24, 2011 17:31:29

OMG! Please folks, do not be distracted by fear of hudud in the future. Let's go ABU because of the rampant plundering of public money that is taking place now. Let's all spread the word to friends and relatives. Let corruption become a talking point. ...

written by melayu mudah lupa, October 24, 2011 17:30:12

Hurrah hurrah selamat Hari Diwali, Now we pesta dan samun pakai Tabung Negara sampai ke syurga dan bisa jumpa anak anak dara. I am Anak Zorro Hero so i am now in charge of all the members of Ali Baba Bujang Lapuk and I am ready to sapu all your belongings from NOW UNTIL 2MORO.

Hurrah hurrah remember my name Anak Zorro Hero. ...

written by syd, October 24, 2011 17:20:33

It's a gift from Malaysia to Yemen.

Syed mokhtar's deal is always similar to that of the ones made with the forty thieves.

You name it, whether it is dredging, airports, mrt's, he is always thinking of a way to rob and rape.

Malaysians need to work so hard not because they like to work hard but because they need to work to feed the fat cow's appetite meaning if there is no UMNO = no corruption = Malaysians no longer need work their ass off = more free time to be spent on household work = NO NEED FOR MAIDS..............

2011-10-26T18:41:00.000-07:00

By Luke Hunt, The Diplomat

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak hasn’t put a political foot wrong since speculation began an election could be called for as soon as November or early in the New Year. First, he announced an inquiry into electoral reforms, then repealed laws curtailing civil liberties and delivered an election friendly budget.

But Najib pulled off a real coup last week, winning an agreement from Jakarta that will allow Indonesian maids to return to work in Malaysia. That decision will prove popular, particularly among the middle class Muslim women of Peninsula Malaysia who say they are suffering from a lack of domestic help after Indonesia banned its women from working there because of appalling treatment meted out by many employers.

Critics argue that domestic helpers, who don’t enjoy a minimum wage or a day off a week, are little more than modern day slaves for the self-indulged. Such concerns, along with further reports of abuse, resulted in Cambodia compounding Malaysia’s problems and banning its women from working there, too.

Kuala Lumpur says it needs 300,000 maids to meet demand. There is currently a 100,000 shortfall and a growing waiting list of irritable and wealthy women who are demanding extra help in the home and who blame the government for export bans on maids.

The timing couldn’t have been better for Najib, although his bureaucrats, along with their peers in Singapore, would have paid close attention to a court decision in Hong Kong where domestic helpers have traditionally enjoyed far better work conditions.

Hong Kong’s High Court found in favour of a Filipino maid who has lived in Hong Kong since 1986 and challenged laws that specifically exclude maids – normally Filipino or Indonesian – from standard rules that allow all other working foreigners to settle as permanent residents in the territory after seven years of uninterrupted residency.

Malaysia and Singapore, whose courts were also born out of British traditions and might be tempted to follow legal precedents, would hardly have been impressed. But for Najib, such issues are unlikely to have an impact before he stakes his political future on an early poll.

What will matter will be the West Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak. Both states have welcomed the repeal of the Internal Securities Act – which allowed for unlimited detention without trial – and laws blamed for curtailing press freedom, along with increased budget spending and more maids.

However, both states are traditionally a combination of Christians, a very moderate form Islam and Buddhism. Mixed marriages were common, apostasy was accommodated, and forced conversions an anathema before the 1970s.

In these states, most resent the enormous encroachment made by militant Islam since then. Sharia Courts, like headscarves and head to toe hijabs, were also unknown before Sabah and Sarawak joined the Malaysian Federation as equal one-third partners with West Malaysia in 1963. This point will figure prominently in the next election.

Of importance is George Kabayan, a 37-year-old native who converted to Isalm becoming Kamaruddin Abdullah. He has just become the first Sabahan to be whipped under Sharia law, receiving five lashes of the cane and a year’s prison sentence for having an affair with an Indonesian woman, Suryati binti Sumarto.

The pair had lived together for some time, had two children, didn’t have the correct paperwork and the religious authorities only acted after neighbours complained to the Sabah Religious Affairs Department.

The story was widely ignored by Malaysia’s mainstream press.

Najib has gone a long way in winning over Malaysia’s moderates, which will stand him in good stead at the next poll. But that could be undone if his United Malays National Organization (UMNO), which has ruled since independence, fails to deal with the festering religious issues of East Malaysia.

Comments (5)...

written by SoundMan, October 26, 2011 22:01:55

Kamaruddin Abdullah the first Sabahan to be whipped under Sharia law, receiving five lashes of the cane and a year’s prison sentence for having an affair with an Indonesian woman, Suryati binti Sumarto, is the despicable part of Islam.

It does not have a place in Sabah & Sarawak. The politicians are lying down and allowing themselves to be walked over by the loony religious fringe in Islam.

Cowards. ...

written by umno is going down, October 26, 2011 19:47:04

In the first place, most malaysian households need maid because it is impossible for working couples to cope with housework when they spend minimum 10 hours a day at work

malaysians need to work so hard not because they like to work hard

but because they need to work to feed the fat cow's appetite

meaning if there is no UMNO = no corruption = malaysians no longer need work their ass off = more free time to be spent on household work = NO NEED FOR MAIDS

this author here seems to be very clueless and shallow minded, probably another cybertrooper in disguise from India...how the fck can u come to a conclusion that more maids = more votes for UMNO ...

written by Wes, October 26, 2011 18:51:45

If getting maids back into Malaysia can turn into votes, there must be something wrong with the country!!! But then and again, we seem to have become a country that only talks about SEX SEX SEX. ...

written by JEBI, October 26, 2011 18:36:56

I have encountered numerous cases where MALAYSIANS treat their servant maids as virtual SLAVES.

Most of these maids work 7days a week and between 15 to 18 hours a day and are being paid a pittance 600 to 800 ringgit per MONTH. Malaysians, please ask yourself whether you would let your own daughter work at such ridiculous low wages and at such long hours.

Maybe this how KARMA works.....Malaysia deservedly being ruled by corrupt and inefficient politicians. ...

written by syd, October 26, 2011 17:40:23

Sabah religious affairs department probably manned by mats from peninsular.

Why is it that only women suffer without maids? Man can do household chores too. We can all eat yeoh's chicken curry with rice or Maggie.

I’M A MALAY AND A MUSLIM....WHY SHOULD I ASSOCIATE MYSELF WITH YOU OR YOUR PERKASA...???? YOU ARE NOT THE MODEL PARADIGM OF A MUSLIM AND A MALAY LEADER THAT THE MAJORITY OF THE MUSLIM MALAYSIAN MALAYS ARE LOOKING FOR AS AN ICON..??? WE ARE STILL SEARCHING FOR A NON-MUNAFIK MUSLIM MALAY LEADER AS AN EXEMPLARY MODEL...!!!! SO FAR NONE..........

2011-10-26T18:16:00.000-07:00

(The Malaysian Insider) - Perkasa president Datuk Ibrahim Ali has expressed embarrassment over the poor turnout at the Himpunan Sejuta Umat rally, despite the Malay rights movement earlier shrugging off the low attendance.

Only 5,000 people filled the 100,000-seat Shah Alam Stadium where the rally against the alleged Christianisation of Malaysia took place last weekend.

“Even as late at 4pm, there were fewer than 10,000 people... I was embarrassed as a Malay and a Muslim. Where are our Malays?

“But when there’s a conference or an assembly, why this, why that?” Ibrahim said in his winding-up speech at the 2nd Perkasa general assembly here.

The Malay rights leader lamented that Malays were very good at asking for things but were reluctant to put their money where their mouth was when time came for action.

“What is our sacrifice? How far are we willing to go?” he said.

Ibrahim added that if Malays remained too passive in voicing their objections despite being “under attack from within and without”, they would suffer the same fate as Singaporean Malays and Malays in Penang, whom he said were marginalised.

Comments (21)...

written by Apek, October 27, 2011 08:22:14

Dear Ibrahim Ali and the UMNO handlers of PERKASA,

The Malays are not fooled by your baseless claims of apostasy. These manufactured issues of race, religion and raja-raja Melayu are not issues that concern Malays or Malaysians. The real Malays and real Malaysians know that all Malaysians are already protected under the Malaysian constitution. Hence all this manufactured issues and sabre rattling is all syiok sendiri issues created by UMNO in an attempt to stay in power.

However, the Selangor Palace has been foolishly dragged in to attempt to drum up support for this Himpun rally (even a police permit was given) but it has backfired. By playing to UMNO's script, even the Raja-raja Melayu are not an issue anymore. ...

written by casperclc, October 27, 2011 07:02:59

The turnout was as expected and true to form, this Brahim piece of shit shrugs it off, just another day at the office.

Having shouted fire, rape and murder - all that incessant barking - in support of JAIS' action to raid DUMC and having got Sultan Selangor's support to justify the illegality with a decree that implied no fault on JAIS, this 4 maybe 5k turnout is a slap on the face to all involve with the conception of "HIMPUN".

My advise to all trouble makers that act as proxy to UMNO - proceed with your games, the masquerade, threats and all show of petulance BUT puhleeze lah, don't involve the palace next time round.

All events were reported and played out in a very public arena. Through all mediums of communication, this JAIS-DUMC debacle was broadcasted and relayed to an audience far and wide - all because of a little lie or some false claim Muslims' were being converted/coerce/force to (take your pick) embrace the Bible over the Quran.

Such preposterous claim and accusations isn't a recent development and with that in mind, I'm highly surprised the palace choose to weigh in.

Fact of the matter, all the drama by JAIS stems from its own false claim certainly doesn't bolster JAIS' appalling reputation, and with some thought, I don't think JAIS cares either way, only to fulfill UMNO's agenda to cause disruption towards the state govt.

HIMPUN is now done and dusted, Brahim and Hasan Ali now walk off and make don't know. All in we can all sigh big relief while catching a[removed]void(0); glimpse, the level of grassroot support for this sinister UMNO driven scheme.
And talking about grassroot support - many don't remember - couldn't tell even with the widest angled lense, the crowd that showed up for ex-Perak MB *Nizar Jamaaluddin's nomination in Taiping was reported as some 40,000++.

*Suffice to say, Nizar won a handsome win, with anticipation of an even greater victory in his quest towards Istana Kinta to reclaim the state assembly (and prosecute) current illegitimate corrupt BN stooges. And I dare say, that is a promise many of us would like to keep. ..

written by 1Millionhaha, October 27, 2011 06:45:41

I am really surprised that despite his thick skin he can still get embarassed. Most Malays have better things to do in life , such as working hard to make a honest living, than to waste time listening to his rabble. Statistic indicated that (4000/1000000)*100% supported him and his agenda. Wonder how many will vote for him at the next election? ...

written by abu, October 27, 2011 06:05:52

This Babi Hutan is talking shit....!

Most of the Malays are smarter than you. ...

written by JusticeTower, October 27, 2011 05:34:37

Ohhhh... now Ibrahim Ali is playing the sympathy card.... ...

written by aza, October 27, 2011 05:11:04

"Where are our Malays?" Your kind of Malays? ...

written by Lord Jim, October 27, 2011 04:10:15

Probably Malays are more sophisticated these days than the himpun homespun that rally to Ali's war cries and drag queen songkok and red dress pantomines.

Waving keris ain't half wot it used to be, the days when monkeys come on stage to do that in memory of great Chinese hero Hang Tuah is long gone!

Ali can't even get his great hoards to fill just a small section of the stadium, we always hear of these great jenerals without an army.
Reminds me of Khairy who led that huge red-clad army of about 20 gorillas during his counter-attack against the Bersih marchers. That too was another great occasion when the jenerals can't get their figures to work out. the unseen hoards must be those as invisible as the rest of our army mostly of ghost voters and voters with multiple personalities.

Nah! ...

written by Yolo, October 27, 2011 03:29:04

Ibrahim Ali..read about History...read properly...every civilization , culture AND RELIGION of the WORLD has been "TRANSFORMED" in one way or another.....we call it MUTATION in Biology.......so why do you want to RESIST something that you cannot control....In this world there is only ONE thing that is CONSTANT that is CHANGE.......you should CHANGE or else CHANGE will CHANGE YOU!!!!!!!! ...

written by Batang Berjuntai, October 27, 2011 03:25:26

The real Malay, Malaysian malay have got smart.

The "chelup" malay have vested interest and will try to exploit everything under the sun, religion, race, money, etc., for personal gains,

The stupid malay are the UMNO malays, being used by Mamak. ..

written by MalaysianMalaysian, October 27, 2011 03:05:07 Oops! I thought Perkasa claims to have 300,000 members!! Where are they??? How many attended the assembly and Himpun???

Many malays clearly can see you are carrying UMNO hidden agenda!!!! Why should they wasting time to attend???? Many malays were embarrassed with You!!!!! ...

written by bp, October 27, 2011 02:32:07 Same fate as malay singapore?? Haha, u speak BM to the malays here they act as if they cannot hear u clearly and reply with fluent english, you ask them whether they want to migrate to malaysia 99 out of 100 wilk shake their head. Trust me, even singapore malays look down at m'sia malays. ...

written by orangkampung, October 27, 2011 02:30:43

The English has a saying which goes like this, " Man proposes, God disposes".

Ibraheng's proposed Himpun rally was disposed by God through the meagre turnout. Malu lah...mana nak letak muka kau?

Bagui lah terjun masuk kat telaga.

Bangsat punya perkasa! ...

written by educationist, October 27, 2011 02:18:46

Has it occurred to this moronic demon that most of our Malay rakyat are above his kind of rubbish, shit, extremist and racist politiics!! ...

written by Nixcloud, October 27, 2011 02:07:47

hahahaha, and this jagoh kampong said the turnout at Bersih 2.0 was baadddd..... ..

written by Oscar Winner !, October 27, 2011 01:50:13

Shit Shit Shit.. Sorry, what he meant was Najis Najis Najis. BTW nobody realised when he uttered shit 3x, he was uttering Najis 3x.

Where are all the Malays?? Ibrahim Ali feeling enbarrassed?? That's news. Ask your boss Tun Mamak. He shunned Himpun too. It seems he isn't just fighting for ketuanan crap, he is fighting for the Sing malays as well. I didn't know Sing malays have enlisted his help. By so doing, he doesn't realise that he's insinuating the Sing govt, or for that matter, the govt of countries where malays are found, are ill-treating the malays there. Wow, a warrior for malays the world over. Ibrahim Ali, embarrassed ?? Shit shit shit written by Labu labi, October 27, 2011 01:42:22 Poor turn out mean there a more wise malays.

These wise malays can evaluate good and bad things.

One of the bad things is not to associate with Ibrahim Ali. Man with no principle. His guided principle is cash.

Mind you mat sabu or Tok guru nik aziz can pull more voluntary crowd BUT more often pol;ice dont give permit. ...

written by albert zacharias, October 27, 2011 01:18:26

Padan lah muka kau Ibrahim. Malays are not stupid and ignorant like you. Most working class are struggling to put food on the table, money for children to grow up and savings for old age. Religion are for people with nothing to do like you.

Ibrahim Ali... better you balik kampong and tanam jagong lah!!! ...

written by SoundMan, October 27, 2011 01:13:37

Ibrahim Ali said,

fewer than 10,000 people... I was embarrassed as a Malay and a Muslim. Where are our Malays?

Them Malays, through your earlier, 'wolf !, wolf !, wolf!!' shouts, saw through you and in all wisdom gave your stupid show a miss. ...

written by richfyf2000, October 27, 2011 00:52:07

Malay being marginalised. Malay being Christianised, Malay being cheated, Malay being left out from the Economy, Malay not getting 30% share of the Economic pie, Malay being cheated, Malay being scorned. Wow seems like Malay is really a down trodden race. So Malay must be thankful to Ibrahim Ali, "General Perang" and Pembela Bangsa dan UGAMA.

If the is no Ibrahim Ali, Malay will disappear from Tanah Melayu. That seem to be the message from Ibrahin Ali. Well I wonder what the Malay feel towards Ibrahim Ali ( beside the 4000 that attend the Himpun) ...

written by eloofk, October 27, 2011 00:44:59

"Where are our Malays?" asked Katak Ibrahim Ali.

Oh, they were watching football with their beloved PM!!!...

written by NottyMaus, October 27, 2011 00:40:53

Give it up lah, Ibrahim Ali !

Join the majority sane and normal people to re-build Malaysia.

You would do better to emphasize construction, better than just destruction spewing from your mouth, daily.

Dismantle your Perkasa; set up another org. like eg. Union Harmoni or something like that, where everyone can join up.

Without doubt, you'll be able to attract millions ! Don't you think that's better ?

The world's population of seven billion is set to rise to at least 10 billion by 2100, but could top 15 billion if birth rates are just slightly higher than expected, the United Nations……..

2011-10-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

World Population Could Hit 15 Billion said UN
By Agence France-Presse, Updated: 10/26/2011

World population 'could hit 15 bn': UN

The world's population of seven billion is set to rise to at least 10 billion by 2100, but could top 15 billion if birth rates are just slightly higher than expected, the United Nations said on Wednesday.

The world's population of seven billion is set to rise to at least 10 billion by 2100, but could top 15 billion if birth rates are just slightly higher than expected, the United Nations said on Wednesday.

In a report ahead of ceremonies on October 31 to mark the seven billionth human alive today, the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) warned demographic pressure posed mighty challenges for easing poverty and conserving the environment.

New estimates see a global human tally of 9.3 billion at 2050, an increase over earlier figures, and more than 10 billion by century's end, UNFPA said.

But, it added, "with only a small variation in fertility, particularly in the most populous countries, the total could be higher: 10.6 billion people could be living on Earth by 2050 and more than 15 billion in 2100."

The 126-page document, "The State of the World Population 2011", highlights a surge that began with the post-World War II baby boom -- a numbers "bulge" that shows up in following generations as they in turn grow up and have children.

In contrast, prosperity, better education and access to contraception have slashed the global fertility rate to the point that some rich countries have to address a looming population fall.

Over the past six decades, fertility has declined from a statistical average of 6.0 children per women to about 2.5 today, varying from 1.7 in the most advanced economies to 4.2 in the least developed nations.

Even so, 80 million people each year are added to the world's population. People under 25 comprise 43 percent of the total.

"Our record population can be viewed in many ways as a success for humanity -- people are living longer, healthier lives," said Babatunde Osotimehin, UNFPA's executive director.

"How did we become so many? How large a number can our Earth sustain?" he asked.

"These are important questions, but perhaps not the right ones for our times. When we look only at the big number, we risk being overwhelmed and losing sight of new opportunities to make life better for everyone in the future."

The report highlighted these challenges:

- HELPING YOUTH: Having large numbers of young adults offers many poor countries the hope of rising from poverty.

But, warns the UNFPA, "this opportunity of a 'demographic dividend' is a fleeting moment that must be claimed quickly or lost." Finding jobs for this swelling sea of youngsters is essential.

The report notably quotes from a report by the UN's International Labour Organisation (ILO) which suggests the 23.4-percent youth unemployment in the Arab world was a major contributor to the uprisings there.

- GREEN WORRIES: The report cites environmental problems that are already pressing and set to intensify as demand grows for food, energy and homes.

Referring to a yardstick of sustainability used by the environmental thinktank Global Footprint Network, the report said it now takes the Earth 18 months to regenerate the natural resources that we use in a year.

"Climate change and rapid population growth are among the many factors contributing to the current drought and famine in the Horn of Africa, which has affected more than 12 million people," it says.

Future concerns focus especially on water stress. "Analysis suggests that the world will face a 40-percent global shortfall (in water) between forecast demand and available supply by 2030," says the report, citing Egypt -- hugely dependent on the Nile -- as a particular example.

- CITY FUTURES: The balance between rural and urban populations "has tipped irreversibly" towards cities in today's world of seven billion. The biggest urban agglomeration, as defined by the UNFPA, is Tokyo, with 36.7 million people, followed by Delhi, with 22 million, Sao Paulo, 20 million and Mumbai, with 20 million.

As the world's population expands, better urban planning, with closer involvement of residents, will be essential. Adequate housing, sanitation and green spaces should be incorporated in the shaping of cities rather than ad-hoc growth that leads to shanty towns.

- IMMIGRATION: In rich countries where populations are becoming top-heavy with the elderly, the task will be to meet growing demands for labour. Immigration, one of the options, needs to be orderly and managed so that migrants are better integrated and protected.

- FAMILY PLANNING: Dozens of countries are lagging in achieving the UN's Millennium Development Goal of providing universal access to reproductive health, said the report.

"A stable population is a sine qua non for accelerated, planned economic growth and development," said Osotimehin.