Replying Johan Jaaffar : The law and the art of being popular

I blog to disagree with the contention by Johan Jaaffar. Though I agree that everybody including the Royals are below the law as all men are equal below the law and that simply mean the Rule of Law in our Rukunegara.

As for me, I am a strong believer of a moral attachment in society and I also view that law is just a secondary attachment to provide order for the people to follow. As such between public morality & safety and the law, public morality outweigh that of the law. That means, those in authority such as the police, state assemblyman and parliamentarian owe a higher duty of care to see to the public needs and that outweigh the supremacy of the law. This means morality has the force of law to determine fairness and justice. I am not saying that the law must be broken but that the law must be seen in continuation with the desire of the people. Justice must NOT ONLY be done but must be seen to be done. The law MUST run in tandem with the everyday life of the people.

If things and situation becomes unfair and unjust, than fairness and justice must be manifested by the people in authority. If the law is 'unlawful' and 'unjust', then there must be a strong moral attachment to amend or change that piece of legislation or policies. Take the Internal Security Act, the Police Act, the Official Secret Act, the University and College Act, Printing and Presses Act, Sedition Act and a whole lot more of laws that need to be reviewed, amended and abolished altogether.

Can we say that these laws are justified and fair? Can we say that these laws reflects the views of the people and the freedom stipulated in the constitution? My gut feeling says 'NO'. Are we trying to say that the police officer hoisted by the people want to be popular? Or that the state assemblymen arrested in Malacca for what the Chief Minister of Malacca dubbed as 'mencuri besi buruk' wanted to be popular?

In the past one month, many people have asked me, what do I think about YB Lim Jack Wong's case and the case affecting the other YBs i.e. YB Sim Tong Him and YB Goh Leong San who are all arrested together. I thought of writing an article about it but I was just so malas to pen down my opinion and views. Some are influence by the writings in Sin Chew (or Nan Yang) recently by a fellow member of the Malacca Bar and a close friend of mine, Mr. Chia Cheng Wee who opined that their act were in short foolish and set a bad example or precedent to members of the public to take the law into their own hands.

As such, this compel me to write a short note here to state my mind the need for some clarification about the acts of our YBs. There is a fine distinction between the law and morality. My opinion is simple, that the YBs owed a higher degree of morality and obligation. And that higher degree of morality and obligation outweigh that of the strict nature of the law. The law must be read in tandem and togetherness with the voice and the majority of the people. That is what we called democracy or makkal sakti.

There is indeed a higher degree of morality attached to the Malacca state assemblymen to do what's best and right for the people. The people complain to them and the abandoned project was laying for almost a year and yet nothing was done to cover the area by the authorities or the private company. Now that posed a significant danger for everybody especially school children walking pass. Worst still as school children the idea of danger is never registered in their mind. As such, that justified the acts of the state assemblymen to do what is morally right. Are we to wait for somebody to just fall and injured himself or worst still, died and then quickly do something about it. Who are we to blame or point our finger then?

The second argument of course is whether an offence has being committed by our YBs. In all criminal law every law student will know the fact that for an offence to be established, all elements of crime must be satisfied i.e. the guilty act (actus reus) and the guilty mind (means rea).

The prosecution will definitely have a hard time establishing an offence because of the lacking of the intention stated under the Penal Code. Compare that to the then OCPD of Melaka Tengah (whom I believe was promoted) who did intentionally kick the state assemblyman, YB Lim Jack Wong (ADUN Kesidang), coupled with the knowledge that his act will cause hurt inflicted to YB has committed an offence under the law. In what law or morality give the right to that OCPD to do likewise. That exist a criminal element that must be investigated and prosecuted by those in authority.

It is also in my view that the rakyat must be proactive to correct the wrong. That is why the Criminal Procedure Code gives power to the public to make a citizen arrest. The question of course is what are the ways and the channels of complaint. Do not do it yourself or take the law into your own hand but take charge of the complaint and report to us or any government agencies.

Please read here and here on YB Lim's arrest.

Now back to Johan's article which he says "WATCHING the images of a senior police officer being hoisted on to the shoulders of the so-called "Cheras barricade breakers" saddened me". To my mind, that police officer did what is best for the people that is to make the law (Police Act) practical to the people so that no untoward incident happened. There is no anarchy or public disorder if emotions are controlled and the voice of the people are heard. In fact the only wrong committed is that the slow paced by the government and the ministry concerned to intervene. Should the Minister acted accordingly and immediately, the problem would have been solved earlier.

So Johan Jaafar, though I respect your view and that may be the conventional view, maybe you should just explore the beauty of morality.

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Johan Jaaffar: The law and the art of being popular

Saturday, 31 May 2008 09:19am

©The New Straits Times (Used by permission) by Johan Jaaffar WATCHING the images of a senior police officer being hoisted on to the shoulders of the so-called "Cheras barricade breakers" saddened me. According to reports, the barricade was demolished "peacefully" by the crowd in the presence of policemen watching "to maintain peace and order". I wonder if anyone questions how many laws have been broken by the boisterous yet agitated crowd or whether the gathering is even allowed by the Police Act. Should anyone care to listen to "the other side" -- the highway concessionaire Grand Saga who maintained that the barricade was erected "on an indisputable portion of the concession area"? I have no love for Grand Saga and I empathise with the residents if at all the barricade had caused so much misery to them. But I believe we have to be fair to all parties -- the people affected and to the company, too. No one is above the law. That is the principle that we have upheld all these years. That is the Malaysian way of doing things. If we take the law into our own hands, we are heading towards anarchy. If you have been following media reports in Taiwan and Hong Kong over the Cheras issue, you will understand how much it has dented our reputation. There is another worrying element to the reports -- hints of racism. Why, I wonder, has a matter pertaining to the setting up of a barricade protested by residents of all races become a racial matter? The way I look at it, the country's image is one thing, but the maintenance of law and order is another. It is easy for anyone to say that they stand by the people on matters like this. Toll highways have never been popular with Malaysians, anyway. It hurts the pocket. But people have no choice but to pay to go places. Shall we do away with tolls on all our highways? An enticing prospect needless to say, and indeed one that will get wholehearted support from everyone, except of course the operators of those highways. But does anyone in his or her mood of irrational exuberance remember the matters pertaining to concession agreements, the funding and its necessity? In the name of popularity, should the present government pronounce as null and void all those concession agreements signed so far? Taking a populist approach is easy. Side with the people over everything. One can never go wrong. Just give the people what the people want. But things are not that simple. So the only logical thing to do is play the underdog. It is always the Goliaths over the Davids. The little people are victimised by "the system". The Big Guys motivated by nothing but greed make life miserable for the masses. These people make tons of money while the highway users endure ever increasing rates. In an economic system like ours, there is no law against making money. Playing to the gallery is good politics. Just imagine how one becomes popular siding with hawkers and every conceivable petty trader who has no regard whatsoever for the law, safety or cleanliness. Stand by them, and presto, you're the folk hero. Some of today's MPs and state representatives were social activists before. But they, too, are on the side of law and order now. Behaving like saviours of the little people is one thing, but the burden of being elected representatives is another. There are members of parliament and state representatives who would love to label themselves as orang yang ditakuti (the dreaded ones). They want the image of a no-nonsense, hard talker and a gunslinger, ever willing to spray bullets on hesitant and bumbling politicians. They build their notoriety on acting tough. Some even make it a point to provoke, condemn and humiliate others. The Dewan Rakyat sadly has become one big arena for bertikam lidah (sabre rattling). Some of the scenes are not too pleasant. Harsh words are exchanged and proprieties take a beating. Do we have to go to that? Do we have to witness our politicians behaving like spoilt schoolchildren in the so-called Dewan yang mulia? Why can't they just get into the business of representing the people? They have tons of problems to begin with. The people want their representatives to bring forth their grouses, argue their cases and help them find ways to improve their livelihoods. Why can't they do just that, rather than perfecting the art of throwing mud at each other? Why can't they be like what they are supposed to be -- ahli-ahli yang berhormat (the respectable ones)? I fear the day when fist fights will actually happen in the Dewan Rakyat. Good, rational arguments win hearts and minds. Take the case of Datuk Ibrahim Ali's maiden speech in the recent sitting. He has been called many names. But he gave one of the best speeches at the Dewan Rakyat. He has nothing new to sell, actually. But it was his calmness, research and eloquence that won the day. If only there are more like him than the noisy interrupters and perennial table bangers. Why, I wonder, do parliamentarians need to waste time on semantics and dubious rules of the House or lambasting fellow MPs when they should be making suggestions and contributing ideas? That will differentiate the men and women from the boys and girls. Brute force without wisdom fails by its own weight, someone famously said. Little wonder we forget most of the questions and statements made in Parliament. But is our society being reflected in what happens at the Dewan Rakyat today? We need a responsible government, and equally responsible representatives to play the role of check and balance. The very people who were elected on the mantra that the ruling government at the time was ignoring and disrespectful to the rakyat, practising cronyism and succumbing to racial politics, must now prove themselves as the harbinger of change. They must now show the way for the betterment of the people, to ensure the emergence of a civil society and more importantly to respect the law. That applies even to the supporters of the demolition of the Cheras barricade among them. They must also work together to heal a divided nation. Is that too much to ask from our Yang Berhormat?

Ezam joining UMNO...from the Star

For what he has fought almost 10 years. Started with the cry of Reformasi. Went into jail for what he principally believed in. Went against the ISA, OSA (of which he was jailed for it before) and the likes of it and NOW suddenly back in UMNO.

I (I believe others as well) am now waiting to know what is the price and when is the price..... so to safeguard his belief, fight a position in UMNO through the democratic process of UMNO, errrrr, is there democracy in UMNO, that I dunno LAH. But anyway, to stay clean, contest a position and show that you are truly a leader to be reckon with.

----- The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno has accepted former PKR Youth leader Ezam Mohd Nor back into the party but has not promised him any position.

Prime Minister and Umno president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi who welcomed Ezam back to the party said:

“What’s special about him is that he left he party to lead another party but he decided to come back, knowing that Umno is still the better party".

Ezam handed over his application form and RM100 in lifetime membership fee at a press conference at Parliament House, after a brief meeting with Abdullah.

Guan Eng's PC on Pedra Branca

I enclosed below the press statement by Sec-Gen of DAP, YAB Tuan Lim Guan Eng regarding the decision of the International Court of Justice over Pulau Batu Puteh. As he rightly put in, we are now forced to swallow our pride and call the island Pedra Branca. That name is definitely not a Malaysian name.

I hope we will not lose any more territory.

Press Statement by Lim Guan Eng in Petaling Jaya on Friday, 23^rd May 2008:

Malaysia's loss of sovereignty over Pulau Batu Putih - no more loss of territory through bad planning

It was a sad and painful day for Malaysia when the International Court of Justice in the Hague on May 23rd ruled that Singapore has sovereignty over Pulau Batu Puteh, the strategic tiny lighthouse island near the Malaysian shore.From now onwards Malaysians will be forced to swallow their pride and call the island Pedra Branca.

The ICJ in its ruling:

* finds by twelve votes to four that sovereignty over Pulau Batu Puteh belongs to the Republic of Singapore;

* finds by fifteen votes to one that sovereignty over Middle Rocks belongs to Malaysia;

* finds by fifteen votes to one that sovereignty over South Ledge belongs to the State in the territorial waters of which it is located.

I am sad to acknowledge the fact that we have lost our case and I wish that the government would have been more prepared and serious in presenting its case in this 28-year-long territorial dispute.Despite the galling taste of loss, Malaysia is compelled to abide by the ICJ ruling in good spirits. Any refusal would be contrary to our pledge and honour to be bound by ICJ's decisions. Attorney-General should explain why we lost and if we had such a poor case, why pursue the matter with the ICJ?

DAP cannot understand how the Foreign Minister Datuk Rais Yatim can describe the ruling as a win-win situation when we won nothing but lost once and for all Pedra Branca. Datuk Rais and the government should not try to spin this defeat as a victory but acknowledge the sense of loss and disappointment felt by all Malaysians at the failure of the Federal government to defend our sovereignty.

However Malaysians have no choice but to accept the new international reality of losing control over Pedra Branca and continue to work with Singapore in areas of common interests and mutual benefits

I am READY

I am READY. Come globalisation, DiSLY welcome the challenge. But then again whether my colleagues in the Bar is ready too. Well ball now on the Bar Council. But nevertheless I am READY and PREPARED. The question now is WHEN.

----- The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: The Government is keen on opening up the legal sector to international foreign firms particularly in specialised areas.

In an immediate response, the Bar Council said it was ready to open up in "permitted practice areas" and believed that liberalisation of the legal sector is something inevitable in today's age of globalisation.

At a press conference Monday, de facto Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim said liberalising the legal profession has been talked about for a long time but it is time now "to put more energy and urgency" into it in view of the global economy.

"We must allow the realities of the market place to be a factor in our decision to open up. How do we retain our best lawyers if we don't have international law firms in our country?

"If we can have some well known international names here, then perhaps we can keep them (our lawyers) here. We must open up. We must have a competition policy. We must have freer trade and environment," he said, urging the Bar Council to sit down and focus on this again.

Zaid said that if Malaysia wanted to bring in big foreign investments and multinationals, it was important to open up the financial services sector and the legal profession.

"It is not the number of lawyers but the skills that we need to build up this country. The big foreign MNCs and big banks normally want to use lawyers that they feel will suit their needs.

"We cannot keep thinking of our own self-interest. We have to think in terms of the interest of the country," he said, adding that countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, United Arab Emirates and Kuwait had opened up their legal sector and reaped benefits from it through huge investments.

"If we want to continue to forge ahead and develop, then we should open up," adding that joint-ventures with the foreign firms might be one of the approaches.

Zaid said local law firms should not be afraid of the liberalisation because it would not impinge on their business.

He said this was because the liberalisation would be in selected specialised areas like intellectual property, maritime law, structured finance, banking and aviation law.

"We are not saying we are going to open up everything. Most international foreign firms are not interested in the small firms' businesses.

"Local firms business will not be jeopardised in areas where our standards are high," he said, adding that when foreign law firms were operating here this would also open up employment opportunities for local lawyers and for them to gain expertise.

Bar Council president Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan said they are prepared for foreign firms to come in particularly in corporate transactions.

"It's inevitable. There are no two ways about it," she said, adding that the Bar Council had drafted up rules on the "permitted practice areas" that could be opened up.

The areas are transactions involving international capital market, asset securitisation which goes beyond the (yet to be determined) stipulated amount, transactions governed by foreign laws and those involving the Malaysian International Islamic Financial Centre (MIFC).

She said they were keen in joint-ventures between foreign and local firms in the MIFC but Bank Negara had asked to consider allowing standalone foreign firms and "we are looking at this proposal."

She said the Bar Council was working closely with the International Trade and Industry Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in liberalising the legal sector to deal with trade negotiations like the Free Trade Agreements and the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS).

She said the Bar Council also reserved the right to increase the areas to be opened up.

"We are ready. We accept that we must be global," she said, adding that with the MIFC the opening up would be "faster than we think", possibly within a year.

She said the ultimate goal was to strike a balance by meeting the challenges of globalisation while at the same time promoting the interest of the local law firms.

On Lawyers

© New Straits Times (Used by permission)
by June Ramli
KUALA LUMPUR: The standard of lawyers, most of whom graduated from local universities, range from the good to the grotesque, says a senior judge.

"Many of them are bad because of the low-quality training they received at local institutions of higher learning," Court of Appeal judge Datuk Gopal Sri Ram told the New Straits Times after the launch of a book, Malaysian Employment Laws, by M.N. D'Cruz here on Thursday.

Sri Ram, who has been in the legal profession for 40 years, said some lawyers did not have a clue how to introduce their opponents or to cite cases in court.

There was also a large number who did not know how to prepare written briefs, he added.

"The Bar Council should address this problem instead of being distracted by other matters."

He said the professional standard of lawyers, estimated at 13,000, had declined in the last 10 years.

"At Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, for example, I was told that they do not offer company law, which is a core subject if one wants to practise law."

He said many lawyers were also financially strapped because of the high cost of maintaining their practice.

As a result, many could not afford to even buy law journals, which cost between several hundreds and thousands of ringgit per volume.

"Law books to a lawyer are what the scalpel is to a surgeon and making them expensive does not help the profession," he said.

"Many are broke because private practice takes a lot of money; they have to pay their staff and their provident fund and taxes, and when all that is done, nothing much is left."

He said the journal for contract law, for instance, cost RM2,000 and this was because it was printed and published in England.

"Many law journals come from Australia and India while Malaysia produces very few law books.

"This is another reason why it makes it expensive for lawyers.

"That is why the photocopy machines in their offices are kept busy at all times," he added.

He commended the government's decision to replace the Certificate in Legal Practice examination with the Common Bar Examination.

Sri Ram added: "This is a good idea and we should give it our support."

Sabah..OURS

Nur Misuari may have his say and his views may be valid and legal. However the people in Sabah have voted to be part of Malaysia through a referendum.

Here, one would have to go back to the history of Sabah where the Sultan of Sulu was granted the territory as a prize for helping the Sultan o Brunei against his enemies. In 1878, Baron Von Overbeck, an Austrian partner representing The British North Borneo Co. and his partner a Briton Mr. Alfred Dent, leased the territory of Sabah. In return, the company will provide arms to the Sultan to resist the Spaniards and 5,000 Malaysian ringgits annual rental based on the Mexican dollars value at that time or its equivalent in gold. This lease have been continued until the independence and formation of the Malaysian federation in 1963 together with Singapore, Sarawak and Malaysia. As of 2004, the Malaysian Embassy to the Philippines had been paying cession/rental money amounting to US$1,500 per year (about 6,300 Malaysian Ringgits) to the heirs of the Sultanate of Sulu.

The lease agreement is definitely a proof otherwise there will be no basis for any agreement if such ownership was not established at all. The contract was between Sri Paduka Maulana Al Sultan Mohammad Jamalul Alam - representing the sultanate as owner and sovereign of Sabah on one hand, and that of Gustavus Baron de Overbeck and Alfred Dent, representing the British Easy India Co., on the other as lessee of Sabah, was executed on January 22, 1878. The Lease prohibits the transfer of Sabah to any nation, company or individual without the consent of His Majesty’s Government (“Government of the Sultan of Sulu”). Although it is mentioned to be a permanent lease, it is contrary to the international law, which states that the terms for a lease contract could only be for 99 years like Hong Kong and Macau. This would make the lease on Sabah overdue by 130 years.

In 1906 and 1920, the United States formally reminded the Great Britain that Sabah did not belong to them and was still part of the Sultanate of Sulu but the British Government ignored and did not listen to the reminder and still annexed the territory of North Borneo as a Crown Colony on July 10, 1946. This is in spite of the fact that the British Government was aware of tile decision made by the High Court of North Borneo on December 19, 1939 that the successor in sovereignty of the Sultan in the territory of Sabah are the Government of the Philippine Islands and not Great Britain.

On September 12, 1962 during the President Macapagal's administration , the territory of North Borneo, and the full sovereignty, title and dominion over the territory were ceded by then reigning sultan of Sulu, HM Sultan Muhammad Esmail E. Kiram I, to the Philippines. The cession effectively gave the Philippine government the full authority to pursue their claim in international courts. The Philippines broke diplomatic relations with Malaysia after the federation have included Sabah on 1963.

In the years immediately prior to the formation of Malaysia, two commissions of enquiry visited North Borneo (along with neighbouring Sarawak) in order to establish the state of public opinion there regarding merger with Malaya (and Singapore). It is important to note that neither commission was mandated with addressing the legal status of North Borneo; neither were they 'referendums' in the proper sense. The first commission, usually known as the Cobbold Commission was established by the Malayan and British governments and was headed by Lord Cobbold, along with two representatives of Malaya and Britain (but not either of the territories under investigation). The Commission found that 'About one third of the population of each territory [i.e. of North Borneo and of Sarawak] strongly favours early realisation of Malaysia without too much concern over terms and conditions. Another third, many of them favourable to the Malaysia project, ask, with varying degrees of emphasis, for conditions and safeguards... The remaining third is divided between those who insist upon independence before Malaysia is considered and those who would strongly prefer to see British rule continue for some years to come'. Indonesia and the Philippines rejected the findings of the Cobbold. In 1963, a tripartite meeting was held in Manila between Indonesian president Soekarno, Philippines president and Malayan Prime Minister Tunku. The meeting agreed to petition the UN to send another commission of enquiry and the Philippines and Indonesia agreed to drop their objection to the formation of Malaysia if the new commission found popular opinion in the territories in favour. The UN Mission to Borneo was thus established, comprising members of the UN Secretariat from Argentina, Brazil, Ceylon, Czechoslovakia, Ghana, Pakistan, Japan and Jordan. The Mission's report, authored by the then UN Secretary General U-Thant found ‘a sizeable majority of the people' in favour of joining Malaysia. Although Indonesia and the Philippines subsequently rejected the report's findings – and Indonesia continued its semi-military policy of konfrontasi towards Malaysia – the report in effect sealed the creation of Malaysia. (source : Wikipedia)

So if that is the case, though there can be such claim by Philippines that Sabah belongs to them, the voice of the people in Sabah must be heard and respected also. There is a clear referendum by the people of Sabah that wanted to be part of Malaysia. As it was reported, 'a sizeable majority of the people'. More so the Philippines government has dropped their claim over Sabah over the years. As such a NON ISSUE raised by Nur Misuari.

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews) – Moro leader Nur Misuari says he has no plans to attack Sabah but wants the International Court of Justice to settle the status of Sabah if Malaysia will not resolve the issue with the Bangsamoro “justly and peacefully.” In his 68-minute “State of the Bangsamoro Republik address” Misuari told thousands of supporters at the parade grounds of the Rizal Memorial Colleges (RMC) that he was informed word had gone around in Malaysia that with his release, the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) would invade Sabah.

“Did I ask you to make war or peace?” Misuari asked. The crowd said no.

“Your shouts give lie to all these accusations,” he said.

MNLF organizers placed the crowd at 30,000 although the city government on Friday had placed the number of unarmed MNLF members who arrived here from various parts of Mindanao, at 5,000.

Misuari, however, challenged the Malaysia to show proof that Sabah is theirs.

He said the Sabah issue should be brought to the International Court of Justice for resolution.

“We have plenty of brave lawyers who are ready to face them because Sabah belongs to us,” Misuari said.

One of the heirs of the Sultan of Sulu, had also spoken earlier onstage.

Misuari cited what he called “the pittance,” in reference to the lease Sabah pays the Sultan’s heirs, at 5,000 ringgit or about 27,000 Philippine pesos.

“What are we going to do? Anong gagawin natin kung ayaw nila magbayad more than 5,000 ringgits” he asked.

“Five thousand ringgits. That’s a pittance,” he repeated. Misuari was arrested in an island off Sabah on November 24, 2001 for alleged illegal entry. Hew was turned over to the Philippine government on January 7, 2002, and was detained on charges of rebellion until he was allowed to post bail on April 25 this year, after payment of P50,000 bond.

Will it take Another 50 years?

YB Salahuddin Ayub (MP for Kubang Kerian) says it's ok with the present school uniforms from an Islamic perspective. Sense and maturity prevails over lack of understanding and emotional outburst. Nevertheless an atmosphere to agree to disagree on issues.

Malaysians lack openness and maturity in debating and talking issues that are sensitive such as race relations, religious tolerance and even difference in ideology. Though we have with us a small issue on school uniform, I know and everyone here knows that there other bigger and hotter issues that are still under the rock. Time can only tell when it will explode. As such it is of importance a detailed and open discussion on those matters.

As such I am all for an open discussion and forums so that Malaysians of all walk of live can have a dialogue. But as far as I can see, this will take another 50 years.

©News Straits Times (Used by permission)

KUALA LUMPUR: The baju kurung worn by schoolgirls is not sexy, Pas said yesterday.

Pas Youth chief Salahuddin Ayub said there was no problem with the present school uniforms from an Islamic perspective.

"As long as the baju kurung is tailored according to the traditional interpretations of the garment and not too tightly, I don't see any problem," he said.

On Wednesday, National Islamic Students Association of Malaysia vice-president Munirah Bahari reportedly said the school uniform worn by schoolgirls was sexy.

Her comments caused a furore among teachers, students as well as various women groups, who said that her claims were baseless.

Munirah said: "The white blouse is too transparent and it becomes a source of attraction", and that it could encourage "rape, sexual harassment and even premarital sex".

Salahuddin said, however, said it was unlikely that the school uniform contributed to such social ills.

"Cases of rape and free sex are not caused by one or two simple factors. Teenagers today are exposed to all kinds of influences, including all sorts of pornographic material because of the borderless nature of information."

Change Our Lifestyle?

I find it difficult to agree with the suggestion by the PM to change our lifestyle to combat inflation. I must say that he is not totally correct in his statement. To curb inflation is to curb rampant corruption in Malaysia. As former PM, Tun Dr M did once said that Malaysia's corruption is already rooted in our system that means that our system is not only tainted with corruption but has become part of society.

As such our government and government agencies together with all walks of life must together eradicate corruption in our minds and thought. The government must show every effort to combat corruption. If corruption and maladministration is not controlled, then I dare said we will face inflation in a bigger scale that will affect all walks of live. The change must be within the government themselves.

So if the PM is talking about changing our lifestyle, I think he must first change the lifestyle of the government and it's agencies.

----- taken from The Star

TOKYO: Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has called on Malaysians to change their lifestyle to reduce the impact of rising inflation.

The Prime Minister said he would encourage Malaysians to save more and reduce wastage to ease their burden.

“Some people may not think it is important but a change of lifestyle a little bit in times of difficulty is important,” he said in an interview with the Japanese media after attending the Nikkei International Conference here yesterday.

Abdullah was responding to a question on the possible need for a strong ringgit to offset inflationary pressures.

He admitted that Malaysia was facing a lot of difficulties but the Government was implementing aggressive measures.

“We are developing measures to respond to the inflation we are now experiencing. We have to increase productivity and be more competitive.

“We are also seeking cooperation with other countries in strategic areas like food and agriculture,” he added.

Abdullah, who is also Finance Minister, refuted a report by the US Treasury that the ringgit was undervalued.

“Our ringgit has established its true value. We do not intervene to make the ringgit go up or down, it has established a value which we believe to be realistic,” he said.

“There has been no serious fluctuations or volatility,” he added.

The Treasury report issued before last Friday’s market opened said “a persistently large current account surplus coupled with still-low domestic investment” was evidence that the ringgit was undervalued.

Abdullah also said that everyone, including economists, were free to express their opinions about currencies, including the ringgit.

Later, briefing Malaysian journalists accompanying him for his working visit to Japan, the Prime Minister said that during his meeting with his Japanese counterpart Yasuo Fukuda he spoke on food security and cooperation in agriculture in view of increasing food prices.

“We need to go high-tech where food production is concerned.

“I also said that it would be good if Japan can be involved in the halal food industry, apart from investment in plantation, aquaculture and manufacturing,” he said.

Fukuda, he said, responded positively by encouraging the private sector to participate.

Singapore takes Batu Puteh

A small island that prove a point for Malaysia and Singapore. The International Court of Justice decides that Singapore takes Pedra Branca and Malaysia retains Middle Rock. The decision is still read when I am blogging.

Taken from the Malaysian Bar website. Thanks to the accurate reporting from the Malaysian Bar Webmaster

The International Court of Justice has ruled by majority of 12-4 that Batu Puteh/Pedra Branca belongs to Singapore. The Court however rules by majority 15-1 that Middle Rocks belong to Malaysia. South Ledge, however, belongs to the state where in the territorial waters of which it is located.

16.17pm: The Court ruled that the Sultan of Johor has consistently claimed sovereignty over Batu Puteh. The Court ruled that Sultan of Johor has original title to Batu Puteh. This is supported by the activities undertaken by the orang laut, being subjects of the Sultan, surrounding Batu Puteh.

16:24pm: The court now discusses whether this 1812 title has been affected by activities which took place between 1824-1840. Despite the 1824 Anglo-Dutch Treaty dividing the Sultanates into Sultanate of Johor and Riau, the Sultan of Johor continues to have territorial title to the island.

16.33pm: Court concludes that when the Hosburgh Lighthouse was constructed on the island in 1844, the Sultan of Johor has sovereignty over the island. The court now discusses whether sovereignty has since passed to Singapore through the conduct of parties such as acquiescence.

16.44pm: Singapore has passed domestic laws to deal with the Hosgburgh Lighthouse. On 21 September 1953, the Acting State Secretary of Johor replied to the British Adviser to the Sultan that the Johor government does not gain ownership over Pedra Branca. The court considers this letter to be of central importance.

17.12pm: The court is of the view that Johor State Secretary's letter is clear in its meaning. The court rules that since 1953, Johor no longer has sovereignty over the island.

17.16pm: However, the court rules that the 1953 letter does not amount to an estoppel. The court also does not feel that the letter is a binding unilateral undertaking and that letter is merely a reply to an enquiry.

17.37pm: The court notes that 6 maps prepared by Malaysia indicating Pedra Branca is within Singapore's territory gives strength to Singapore's argument.

17:40pm: The court rules that Malaysia's conduct since 1953 shows that Singapore has sovereignty over Pedra Branca.

17.45pm: The court rules that Middle Rocks belong to Malaysia.

17:47pm: The court rules that ownership over South Ledge lies with the state in which it is located within its territorial waters.

Dress Code makes man goes CRAZY

Ridiculous. I am a man, and school uniforms does not turn me ON. A man so retard and idiot as hell? I am embarrassed by statements by some 'Islamist wannabe'. The dress code has been there for over the years and now say that it turn man ON. As such I totally agree with Sisters in Islam that something must be seriously wrong with local men if the sight of girls in their school uniform turns them on. It is so ridiculous and stupid. I must say a stupid statement of the year.

----- Taken from the Star

PETALING JAYA: Something must be seriously wrong with local men if the sight of girls in their school uniform turns them on, says Sisters in Islam.

Programme manager, Norhayati Kaprawi, describes claims made by National Islamic Students Association of Malaysia that the school uniform worn by girls at government schools “encouraged rape and pre-marital sex” as baseless.

“I totally disagree with the statement. What? Even wearing baju kurung is still not enough?” she asked.

“As for the white blouse being too transparent, Malay women who are in mourning wear white baju kurung. Even Umno women wear white baju kurung. So what is the issue?” she said when contacted yesterday.

The student association’s vice-president Munirah Bahari had stated that “the white blouse is too transparent for girls and it becomes a source of attraction to men, who are drawn to it, whether or not they like looking at it.”

She also called for a review of the uniform policy so that it did not violate Islamic ideals.

Women’s Aid Organisation executive director Ivy Josiah said what was needed was ”a review of misguided beliefs about women's attire,” not a review of the uniform policy.

“Statistics and research has shown that all women – young, old, women clad in tudung (headscarf), miniskirts, even babies in diapers – have been victims of rape and sexual assault.

“It is entirely irresponsible for anyone to suggest the idea that rape is a result of attire. Rape is not about attire, it’s about power that perpetrators feel they have over their victims,” she pointed out.

Even men spoke out against Munirah's logic.

Men’s Action Network Against Violence (man.v) member David Anthony said such statements stereotyped men as people who don’t see women as anything other than sex objects.

“It’s the wrong attitude ... it’s perversion,” he said.

Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen declined comment.

Bravo Pakatan

Saw this in Malaysia-Today. A real good piece of news which I don't see it in other news or platform. It's good and enlightening to see the Pakatan state government working together closely for the benefit of the rakyat. This show off maturity in administering the state in togetherness. I applaud their working together and I must say that I am truly envious of the fact that Malacca, my state is not doing any better but spending unnecessary. -------- from Malaysia-Today Opposition state govts share platfom to attract investors

Posted by Super Admin

Thursday, 22 May 2008

For the first time, three opposition state chief ministers shared the same platform to promote Selangor, Perak and Penang to potential investors on the last day of the World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT) here today. Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim together with Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng and Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin took about 15 minutes each to describe the investment incentives, potential and advantages in their respective states. Lim, who described Penang as an "ICT jewel in the making", said the state will continue to build on new niche areas to expand its core competencies. "We want more high technology and high value-added investments, and are upgrading our supply chain and capability," he said. The state, Lim said, was also evolving into a logistics hub under the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER), which encompasses Perlis, Kedah, Penang and the north of Perak. He also took the opportunity to promote Penang's competency, accountability and transparency government, in short the "CAT government". Mohammad Nizar said Perak was changing from "tin mines to MIND industry", with MIND being an acronym for multimedia, information and communications technology (ICT) outsourcing, new media, and research, development and design. He said at Perak's MSC Malaysia Cybercenter@Meru Raya, located in Jelapang, near Ipoh and covering an area of about 85 hectares, a RM40 million Perak Techno-Trade Centre has been built to serve the communications infrastructure needs of investors setting up operations there. He added that Dubai-based Spacetoon International Ltd, a leading global player in the animation industry, will start production there by July 2008. Abdul Khalid said besides providing various facilities and amenities for the ICT industry, Selangor was also able to offer a pleasant living environment. "Selangor is already home to a number of thriving ICT companies," he said.

Nalla speaks to PM...ONLY 5 MINUTES

So Datuk Nalla is turning to Pak Lah for support rather than supporting Pak Lah. But what is more interesting is the statement he made about Datuk Seri Samy, the no more influence person who is the President of a no more influence party. Put it this way, Datuk Nalla will be irrelavant soon as BN will soon be irrelevant.

He describe MIC president Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu as a good friend, and said:

“He taught me a lot of things when I was young. He can also be my guru.”

If that is the case why don't just close shop MUIP and join MIC. So in my opinion is another politicking in politicians.

----- Taken from the Star.

KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s estranged friend and former tennis partner Datuk K.S. Nallakaruppan met with Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Wednesday to pledge his full support to the Prime Minister.

The meeting, however, lasted only for five minutes, as the Prime Minister was busy.

“He said he would fix another appointment,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby.

Nallakaruppan denied that Abdullah was a weak leader, and on his way out.

“To me, he is a good leader. That’s why I have come to support him. He’s my Prime Minister and I have to trust him and I have to love him,” he added.

Nallakaruppan, who was formerly with PKR, said he did not believe Anwar’s claims that he had enough Barisan Nasional MPs who wanted to crossover to topple the Barisan Federal government.

“All the time he bluffs me, so I take this as one of his lies,” said the 61-year-old businessman.

“Morning, his face is different, afternoon his face is again different and night it is different too.

"I don’t believe him and I don’t trust him.”

Nallakaruppan said he had tolerated Anwar, whom he described as someone “who did not know how to value friendship,” for more than 30 years.

“Now I want to keep my distance,” he added.

To a question he said, Anwar could be the Prime Minister in waiting for as long as he liked.

“He can wait. I thought he will change, but he has not,” he added.

Nallakaruppan quit PKR last May after a rift with Anwar over not being chosen as the candidate for the Ijok by-election.

Barisan Nasional won the by-election.

He then went on to set up his own party, Malaysian Indian United Party (MUIP).

Nallakaruppan, who is the president, said he had applied for MUIP to join Barisan.

He believed that MIUP would get better support under Barisan.

Live Streaming

I am happy to hear that the Selangor State Assembly will be having live streaming through the internet. And I believe the cost is far far cheaper compare to live telecast via RTM BN. Smart move by the people's government of Pakatan Rakyat. Good job and shabas.




Melaka State Assembly BOLEH KAH? Tak apa biar saya jawab bagi pihak Kerajaan Negeri, TAK BOLEH, MAHAL....

Another answer. Tak boleh, takut nak pergi live kerana tak tau cakap depan kamera.

Apologies to ABIM Perak

Referring to the article I posed entitled "Another Idiot Crying Out" of which I have taken an news cutting stated that a group of some 20 Perak Malay non-governmental organisations (NGOs) has voiced its concern over the fate of Malays under the new DAP-PKR-PAS government in the state and that ABIM Perak was also part of the group, I have received a comment here that ABIM Perak were never involved in that meeting and that they are a non partisan movement and only involve in charity and religious activities.

So the masalah is kalau tak ada team nak masuk, jangan lah nak paksa team lain pulak. Which means that if ABIM Perak is not involved don't LAH simple mention their name LAH. Buat suspense sahaja...

Mokhzani Resigned on Wednesday

Now the other son RESIGN

---- taken from the Star

KUALA LUMPUR: Businessman and former Youth wing treasurer Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir announced Wednesday that he was quitting Umno.

His announcement comes two days after his father Dr Mahathir resigned from the party.

On Tuesday, Umno Youth exco member and Jerlun MP Datuk Mukhriz, who is also Mokhzani's brother, had announced that he will not quit the party.

He however called on Prime Minister and Umno president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to resign.

The Political Game of Mahatir & Son Private Ltd

I was anxious. Or rather not me alone but everybody in the firm and I believe everybody elsewhere too. The time was 5.30pm (20th May 2008). There were no news still and as usual Streamyx pose a problem to my office until at 6.45pm when the news was finally out. What is that? Mukriz son of Mahatir tak ikut bapak keluar Parti UMNO.

The older did it through a dare (I don't know whether he regret it or not, more so the one that issued the dare is a PAS member and former calon in the recent election). But the younger was smart enough by looking at the surrounding and circumstances. He did not follow his dad. Many anticipated it but I was thinking a little different as I know he will take on the SIL of PM for the UMNO Youth top post. A fight that would see who will lead UMNO Youth in the bleakest day of UMNO.

The SIL will not hesitate to climb the ladder within UMNO so long as PM is still around. But nevertheless, Mukriz son of Mahatir will not allowed this SIL of PM to be what he wants to be. Mukriz son of Mahatir is definitely a stumbling block and a pain in the a** for our friend the SIL of PM. Political pundits feel it will be a battle to watch, a clash of the titans. Looking at history a new team A and team B will suffice. One that will be led by Ku Li and the other by PM. Ku Li's men would definitely be Mukriz son of Mahatir and a running mate in Muyiddin. And I bet you the strategist is none other than Tun himself, VERSUS PM-Najib-Khairy and all the 'kaki bodek' of UMNO which I believe blogees would know siapaLAH. Not I say, but Tun himself say ar.

So in Mahatir leaving UMNO, it will give more opportunity or room for him to manuver

Mahatir's Resignation from UMNO part 2

A really good and detailed piece from NST on the verbal resignation by Tun Dr Mahatir as No. 01 life member of UMNO and it all started from a dare by one UMNO member named Ismail Jaziz. I wonder whether this chap regrets for putting a dare. Be that as it may, Tun took the dare and announced his resignation that took Malaysia by storm.

It literally shook not only those from UMNO or BN but it took the Opposition by surprise too. Nobody expect what he did was so real.

Questions or rather issues, will his act of defiance in resigning made PM Abdullah to step down. Second, will there be an exodus of members becoming independent or joining the Opposition, especially if it is assemblyman or parliamentarian. If that is so, than (i) Pakatan Rakyat gets stronger (ii) Pakatan Rakyat will form Federal Government as Pak Lah will not garner enough support in the House and eventually a snap election be held; AND (iii) Some states especially Negeri Sembilan will see change in state government.

Well things gets more interesting..... watch for Part 3

©New Straits Times (Used by permission)
by Noor Adzman Baharuddin & Adib Povera

ALOR STAR, Mon: After goading Umno members today to temporarily resign from Umno as a sign of protest against the party president, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad took up a “dare” to take the lead by resigning from the party he had been a founding member of since 1946. However, he implored Umno members taking up his challenge not to join any other party and remain independent, at least until the Umno leadership was determined (after the December party elections). He indicated that he will only rejoin the party when Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi steps down as Umno president.

Dr Mahathir, an Umno life member, was answering questions from the floor after giving a talk at a forum entitled 'Future of the Malays after the 12th General Election' at the Star City Hotel in Alor Star, organised by the Kedah Malay Assembly Hall, when a member of the audience asked him if he would take the lead in quitting Umno.

Identifying himself as Ismail Jaziz, he asked Dr Mahathir if he would take the lead since he had mooted the idea. To this, Dr Mahathir, in a serious tone said: “Waa, saya di cabar ni…(looks like I have been dared). Yes, I will leave Umno...until the party leadership is determined. Other Umno members should follow me.”

Loud cheers erupted from the 1,500 attendees, which included assembly chairman Tan Sri Khalid Ahmad, Jerlun Umno division chairman Datuk Abdul Rahman Ariffin, State Assemblyman for Kuala Nerang Datuk Syed Sobri Syed Hashim, State Assemblywoman for Sungai Tiang Suraya Yaacob and former Kedah Menteri Besar Tan Sri Sanusi Junid.

"Malays, Umno members and many other people have sent Abdullah messages to express dissatisfaction with his leadership, especially after the March 8 general election but he remains unaffected. We have to be radical and brave and this is the only way to bring him down," he said.

It is not immediately clear if his son, Datuk Mukhriz, also the MP for Jerlun and an Umno Youth Exco member, would follow suit. Another of Dr Mahathir’s son, Datuk Mokhzani, was reported as saying that his father's decision was a “sign of no confidence” in Abdullah’s leadership.

Abdullah, in an immediate reaction, expressed shock at Dr Mahathir's resignation, saying" I didn't expect him to leave but I will continue to fight for the party."

One notable Umno leader who has apparently took on Dr Mahathir's call to resign is Sanusi, who said he will release an official statement later.

However, Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah, once Dr Mahathir's greatest foe but now seen as a key ally, dismissed expectations that he too would quit Umno, saying that he will continue with his bid to challenge Abdullah for the party presidency in the December party elections.

Datuk Shahrir Samad, an Umno supreme council member and Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, was quoted by AFP as saying that Dr Mahathir's resignation may precipitate a general election.

"The shock resignation may compel many Umkno members, especially MPs, to quit Umno, thus forcing the Prime Minister to form a new Government or call for a snap election," Shahrir was quoted as saying.

The former Prime Minister's announcement also caught his aides by surprise.

Dr Mahathir explained that this was not the first time he was out of Umno. “Between 1969 and 1970, I was expelled from Umno but later, when many Malays and Umno members still supported me, I re-entered Umno. There was no problem. Just don’t join other parties.”

At a Press conference later, Dr Mahathir said he will submit his resignation from Umno as soon as possible.

He explained that that he decided to leave Umno because he felt the party could no longer serve as a genuine political party to protect Malay rights and interests, Umno's founding objectives.

Dr Mahathir claimed Umno had now been made a party to only recognise Abdullah as Umno president and accord importance to the prime minister's family interests, with the nation's welfare taking a backseat.

"I can list out the things that Abdullah had done to the detriment of our nation's interests," he said. "The Umno of today no longer holds to the party's founding goals when it was formed 62 years ago. That is why I have no hesitation whatsoever to leave the party," he said.

Dr Mahathir said it was high time for Umno members who love the party to be bold for the future of Malays and that such a move would not cause the Malays to lose their political power.

"The Malays would not lose their political power. They want to correct things not because they simply want to leave. If they are brave to safeguard the party and the Malay struggles, then they must also be brave to take actions. However, we find that many Umno members can't even attend certain gatherings...division chairmen also cannot attend...what is this?"

Dr Mahathir said when Tengku Razaleigh opposed him in 1988, former prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman had thrown his support for his opponent but he had never stopped any member to campaign against him (Dr Mahathir).

"Now, we cannot say anything against the prime minister or the party president. This is not Umno," he said.

Asked if Umno state assemblymen and MPs should also quit the party, he said they should if they truly love the party.

Asked if his call and decision could be construed as him giving up on Umno, Dr Mahathir said he would not ask others to follow him if he himself was afraid to do so.

Asked if his call would give added pressure for Abdullah to resign from his posts soon, Mahathir said: "I don't know about pressure. This man could not understand anything."

Dr Mahathir insisted that his resignation had nothing to do with the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Lingam video clip.

"That is a court matter and I go to the courts. If they make allegations against me, I could also do the same and if I am found guilty, they can put me in jail but if I am not guilty, please don't arrest me anyway," he said. “I am just protesting against the Abdullah’s leadership of Umno and country."

In their report leaked to the Press, the Commission of Inquiry named Dr Mahathir, lawyer Datuk V. K. Lingam, former chief justices Tun Ahmad Fairuz Sheikh Abdul Halim and Tun Eusoff Chin, tycoon Tan Sri Vincent Tan and former tourism minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Mansor, for conspiring to fix the appointments and promotions of judges.

The government's then instructed the Attorney-General to begin investigations into the six figures named but Dr Mahathir responded by claiming that he would "not settle for less" than his day in court so that he could defend himself against allegations that he was at the centre of a judicial appointments scandal in 2001.

Dr Mahathir had hoped that when investigations into the conspiracy were completed, he would be charged so that he can reveal what really went on behind the scenes at the time, including instances of judges lobbying him for promotions.

Mahathir’s resignation was a culmination of two years of vitriolic criticisms against Abdullah. Dr Mahathir began finding fault with Abdullah after the latter cancelled several mega projects initiated by the ex-PM, notably the new bridge that would link Singapore with Johor Baru.

In an immediate reaction, former Umno secretary-general Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat said Dr Mahathir is was the only leader who left Umno, pointing to Tunku Abdul Rahman and Tun Hussein Onn who never returned to Umno.

“Yet, they were founding fathers of the party. They never return to the party after retiring so there is nothing unusual about his resignation. It has happened in the past and it happens now. It is unfortunate that after making so much noise, he is leaving the party.

“His leaving would not have a serious effect to the party and I do not think that his action will be heeded by other members as they still love the party. After the last general election, Umno members have reflected deeply on what they should do to revive and revitalise Umno. They would not desert the party.”

MCA vice president Datuk Ong Tee Keat said the resignation came as a shock to him because he never expected Dr Mahathir to do it. “Not at this juncture. At the moment, I am not sure what sort of effect or ripples it will cause BN and MCA. But I am convinced Umno, as an established party within the BN coalition, would have sufficient experience and maturity in resolving such problem. What is more important now is for BN to stay firmly together”.

Gerakan secretary general Datuk Seri Chia Kwang Chye expressed shock at Dr Mahathir’s resignation. “This is shocking, it’s hard to believe. I hope this will not bring further instability to Barisan Nasional. I also hope things will settle down and the matter resolved in a calm manner.”

MIC secretary-general Datuk Dr S. Subramaniam said it was unfortunate for Dr Mahathir to resign from the party which he had been a president for a long time. “His instigating others to follow suit in light of the current problems faced by the party, will further weaken it. We hope other members will be clear-headed in this matter.”

Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) president Datuk Yong Teck Lee said Dr Mahathir’s resignation sent shock waves because of his immense influence among Umno grassroots.” I think the nation is in for some exciting politics,” he said.

Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) president Datuk Liew Vui Keong said Dr Mahathir’s decision should be respected and accepted by all concerned. “I can only wish him the best. His resignation may cause a ripple, but how far it will have an effect is best left to the party.”

Sabah Umno liaison committee secretary Datuk Yahya Hussin described the resignation as “very unfortunate” because he was “our president.”

Blackout in Duyong Part 2

A candlelight dinner for two in Duyong. Very romantic just for everybody who stays at the vicinity of Semabok Dalam right to Family Store at Duyong. Especially the month of May, three times deep blackout. Either everybody in Duyong fail to pay their electric bills on time or a power tripped due to unforeseen circumstances. Well that is what our TNB boys will always singing the same tune once when there is a blackout.

Yes, again the same ole same. The fifth blackout in Duyong after the general elections. I am wondering whether are we living in the 21st century or at zaman batu purba where we used fire to light up our gua. But what da hack.... Malaysia Boleh.

Now let me put up the dates for all to see...

23rd March 2008
21st April 2008
15th May 2008
18th May 2008
19th May 2008

May must be a hantu month for Duyong. Oi Gan Tian Lu, can do something ar? Sudah jadi YB and exco dah diam kah? Apa ni? Sorak sikit kepada TNB lah. Or at least somebody must face the sack. This is too much. School children is taking their exams. College students are also taking their exams. So pleaseLAH do something.

Mahatir's Resignation from UMNO part 1

IT was news but I have anticipated it reading from his recent attacks on UMNO's leadership specifically PM Abdullah. Question was when. It was today (19.5.2008) at 12.35pm. He told a crowd of about 1000 people in Alor Setar, Kedah. Reason : LACK OF CONFIDENCE ON THE LEADERSHIP

Everybody was shocked. Some say it is a tragic move that could destroy UMNO (anyway UMNO is already chaotic). Well that statement is an understatement. Who knows UMNO will regain it's strength when the pain-in-the-a** of the party is no more a member of UMNO. Somebody that is so critical of UMNO's leadership is no more. If I were Pak Lah I would rejoice. Nevertheless TDM is out of UMNO for good. Maybe I should correct this, for awhile. Since he has implied that he will return to UMNO when the leadership is restored.

Anyway what is interesting in his speech is that, he urged other party members to quit too, as a way of pressuring Abdullah into vacating his post. But of course with a caution, "don't join the Opposition".

Let us wait and see. Part 2 will be up and coming after this....

Indelible Ink...a suggestion?

The use of indelible ink for the general election is JUST a suggestion and not a directive says PM Abdullah. And how much our money is spend for the ink? Over RM2 MILLION. Our money. Did we used the ink? NOPE NOT AT ALL. AND our Government says A SUGGESTION. When the government purchase it by spending RM2 MILLION over, is there not an intention to purchase it? Or rather than, in whose money that we purchase the indelible ink?

Helooooooo? Can anybody answer me?

Blackout in Duyong

Dear me or rather Dear Orang Duyong. This is the four blackout in Duyong after the general election. I have just received a sms replied that the electricity came back at about 11.05pm. I was told the blackout started from 8.00pm. Unfortunately for the folks in Duyong, this is the fourth times and that it happened almost at the same timing. The last blackout was just a couple of days ago. What can I say Malaysia Boleh!

Lepas 50 tahun kemerdekaan we are still living in jungles with such lame excuse that the electricity tripped. I seriously cannot believed that 4 blackout in less than two months. This is utterly nonsense for Melaka Bandaraya Bersejarah.

Duyong would mean that the blackout is from Semabok Dalam to Family Store in Duyong.

Pakatan Rakyat or Barisan Nasional as Federal Government

I am so fed up to answer the same old song everytime when people will come up to me and ask the damn same question (sometimes the same old people) whether DAP-PKR-PAS can govern the country or the state. Or whether can the Pakatan Government able to lead this country or the state. I am even more shock to hear some even went as far as showing sense of regret for voting Pakatan Rakyat just because they wanted to deny the 2/3 in Parliament. Anyway, my same old answer is "GIVE THEM A CHANCE". Vote them out if they don't progress in the next five years.

Be that as it may, in the past 50 years did the Dacing ever score big in good governance and administration? Well the only thing I know is that there are more harm than good and yet we are still surviving. Meaning, kita boleh tahanlah. Tahan serangan kerajaan Barisan Nasional. I must say that we are more slaves than master of our land. Worst thing is that we were taught to be afraid of the government by our teachers who are members of the government kakitangan. That made us slaves. Born to be slaves.

Now what are the problems our dear government did for the past 50 years? Senangje. I think every Tom Dick and Harry boleh answer. Maybe I should just list down some of it and maybe, just maybe let us pause for awhile to see whether Pakatan Rakyat should just take over and improve it.

(1) Independence of the judiciary. That was breached, clearly seen in 1988 involving the sacking of Tun Salleh and his brother judges. I remember this clearly as it is part of the syllabus all law student seluruh dunia blajar..

(2) Our Federal Constitution - RAPED. Yes by our BN MPs supposed to defend the constitution but voted in amending more than 45 times and more than 650 minor amendments that makes a mockery of the most sacred piece of document. The last amendment was of course the extending of one year the SPR Chairman age of retirement.

(3) Little Napoleon - Bad enforcement officers whether it's Majilis Bandaraya/Local Councils or religious department. A little power sudah jadi raja. That makes a mockery of our Minister who themselves don't know what happen under their nose.

(4) Rampant Corruption - I am still waiting. What happen to our 18 high profile case that dear Rais Yatim once told us? I think this area, banyak orang pun tau dah, tak payah lah nak cakap seperti Istana Zakaria, open corruption in Malacca State government, money politics in UMNO and even in elections etc

(5) Police brutality and abuse of powers - that one just happened in Malacca against DAP YBs. Tak payah lagi nak cakap.

(6) NEP that is laced with corruption, nepotism and cronyism - semua dia punya orang. Projek pun dia jugak.

(7) Racial politics and even now (sehingga kini) the use of May 13 threat. What da stupidest thing to say. Sometimes I don't understand this idiot leaders who are leaders of yesteryears.

(8) Barang Naik - as usual barang naik. Petrol naik, raw material naik...semua jenis naik tapi gaji masih sama.

(9) Nasi tak cukup - I seriously want to know what is our stock pile NOW? I am afraid it could only last us for a few months.

(10) One sided news especially from RTM and TV3. Semua ampu kerajaan kow kow. Nothing but praises to the federal government.

(11) UMNO Youth - still believing in racial politics and acting like a gangster type menaces. I think they forgotten about Kerismuddin. No wonder Tun Dr. Mahatir did once said "Melayu cepat lupa"

(12) Freedom of religion at stake? What happen to the many Hindu temples that was demolished.

(13) Freedom to assemble though guaranteed by our Constitution- a mockery now. The Police Act and some other laws are there to curb and charged illegal assembly. Funny Malaysia?

(14) Draconian and outdated laws such as the Internal Security Act (ISA), Printing Presses Act, Official Secret Act, Sedition Act, University College Act dan ada lagi....

(15) Hmmmm we are still living in the time of Emergency as the Emergency Ordinance is still enforced - what a crap

(16) Flooding and bad drainage system in almost all parts of Malaysia. Sikit-sikit hujan, sudah banjir sampai ke lutut.

(17) Failed NS project that spend berbillion ringgit resulted to many death in camps nationwide.

(18) Mega projects everywhere and yet poverty is seen almost everywhere.

(19) Highway toll hikes - sudah jadi kebiasaan. In Hokkien they call it Bo Pian....

(20) Crime rate steadily went up and up. Hmmm police prefer to make arrest on Opposition leaders rather than hard core criminals.

(21) Immigration problems especially in Sabah. Worst still they become citizen just like that...

(22) What about Oil Royalty to state producers....federal yang ambik. I wonder is this fair?

and the list goes on and on. Gua punya mata nak lelap, nak pergi tidur. But I think that is good enough evidence to welcome Pakatan Rakyat as the next federal government.

What say you?

Press Statement by Malaysian Bar President regarding Karpal & Sedition

The role of the Rulers within the framework of the Federal Constitution is manifold. There are instances where they act on advice, where they have a discretion, and where they (the Conference of Rulers) are consulted (as in the appointments of the Chief Justice, Chief Judges of the High Courts and the Auditor General, to name a few). We have also seen in many instances the important advisory role they have played, and the moderating influence they have had in decision-making processes.

Even in instances where the Yang di-Pertuan Agong acts on the advice of the Cabinet or of a Minister, he is entitled to any information that he requests concerning the government of the Federation which is available to the Cabinet. In fact the Rulers provide an important check and balance in the many situations envisioned in our Federal Constitution. The State Enactments are also clear on the role of the Ruler particularly as Head of the Religion of Islam in their respective States. (In the case of Malacca, Penang, Sabah, Sarawak and the Federal Territories the Yang di-Pertuan Agong is head of the Religion of Islam).

Apart from the cold print of the Federal and State Constitutions, there are conventions built up over time that operate, and that may vary from state to state.

The position and influence of the Rulers is built as much on the deference and respect accorded to them by all Malaysians, as it is on the provisions of the Federal Constitution, State Constitutions and conventions. The Yang di-Pertuan Agong is in fact seen as a symbol of unity amongst the multi-racial, multi-cultural people of Malaysia.

Given the results of the recent general elections, however, it is unsurprising that issues have arisen that have brought to the fore debates on the scope and powers of the Rulers in the government of the State. Indeed, different views have been aired in the recent past concerning the events in Terengganu and Kedah.

Now it appears that only Mr Karpal Singh is being threatened with a charge for participating in such a debate. Apart from the other demerits of the Sedition Act and of proceedings under it, the move against Karpal is unacceptable, more so when there is a lack of similar action against others who have exercised their freedom of expression in quite the same manner as Karpal has.

The Bar Council urges the authorities to exercise restraint in relation to their proposed action against Karpal Singh.

Dato’ Ambiga Sreenevasan
President
Malaysian Bar

14 May 2008

No specific allegation against Sultan, says Karpal

By Royce Cheah (the Star)

KUALA LUMPUR: Bukit Gelugor MP Karpal Singh said he did not make any specific allegation against the Sultan of Selangor and that the Royal Court of Selangor should not be over-hasty in making remarks against him.

"I never did; there was no specific allegation against him," he said.

Karpal Singh was referring to a rebuke by the Royal Court on Monday which said that his statement was baseless, unfounded and irresponsible.

In response, Karpal Singh said there was no specific allegation against the Sultan of Selangor although he did say the pressure was mounting in Selangor.

"My statements were only specific to Terengganu and Perlis where the Ruler insisted in appointing the Mentri Besar of his choice, and they succeeded," he said.

He also said that the Royal Court should look into what was said in 1993 by the then Mentri Besar, Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib, who said: "It is also to ensure that in the future, Rulers do not interfere with the affairs of the state, especially those relating to transfers of civil servants, and official functions."

Karpal Singh said the remarks were made by Muhammad in alluding to the necessity of amending the State Constitution of Selangor after the amendments were made to the Federal Constitution taking away the immunity of the Rulers in relation to legal liability and the setting up of the Special Court.

On comments by Selangor state assembly speaker and DAP central executive committee (CEC) member Teng Chang Khim that Karpal Singh acted with lack of political wisdom in choosing to publicly question the Sultan of Perak's actions, Karpal Singh said he did not wish to dignify Teng's remarks with a reply.

"He said he would be at the CEC meeting on Monday night to explain his remarks, but he did not present himself. I wonder why he did not come."

Karpal Singh also said he did not see why he should have an audience with the Sultan of Perak especially when he made a statement backed by law.

"I still maintain that the Sultan had no right to direct the state government to reinstate the Perak Religious Department head Datuk Jamry Sury.

"It is not a seditious statement but a legal matter and I do not know why it has been blown completely out of proportion," he said.

Karpal versus UMNO

Clash of the titans between DAP Chairman Karpal the Jelutong, ooops Bukit Gelugor Tiger and U-Must-Not-Object. Karpal as we all know will continue to voice his mind and nobody can stop him from shutting his mouth because that is him, the man in Karpal like the latin phrase of Res Ipsa Loquitor - the thing speaks for itself. He speaks a mind as a lawyer and damn he is a hopeless politician.

Then you have UMNO who from the start of it's establishment, has spoken and voice albeit aloud, Malay ideology whom they now categorised as Ketuanan Melayu. Yes only UMNO coined words like these and no other. Racist? Of course it is. Why do they need to do that? No choice, political survival. As usual they always live in zaman batu rather than zaman information technology. In order for them to gung-ho, that is all they know how to do.

Now talking again about UMNO, they will only protect (i) themselves, meaning people who only supported UMNO and it's leaders (ii) project and money, nothing but self interest and the interest of their money. UMNO's support lies ONLY on MONEY.

As for Karpal, he will always fight for the sake of justice and righteousness without fear or favour.

---- Taken from NST

KUALA LUMPUR: Karpal Singh, member of parliament for Bukit Gelugor, said it was not he who had been disrespectful to sultans but Umno.

Debating the royal address in Parliament yesterday, he said he did not understand why he had been labelled treasonous and seditious when in 1993 Umno led a constitutional amendment to clip the powers of rulers.

He said in 1984 he had highlighted in the House alleged wrongdoings by the then Tengku Mahkota of Johor.

In 1987, when the Sultan of Selangor declared that no amnesty would be given to those found guilty of distributing drugs in the state, Karpal filed a case against him.

"Both times, no one said I was being treasonous or seditious. Now, 20 police reports have been lodged against me, including one by Umno secretary-general Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor at the behest of the prime minister."

Reiterating that he had not challenged the power of the Sultan of Perak as head of Islam and Malay customs, Kar-pal said he had only stated that the ruler had no right to direct the menteri besar to withdraw the transfer order given to state Religious Department director Datuk Jamry Sury.

Karpal's speech did not go down well with Razali Ibra-him, member of parliament for Muar, who cited standing orders and requested the chair to stop Karpal's speech.

Razali said: "He should not be allowed to go on as his statement was made without filing an emergency motion. This is not an appropriate forum to talk about it. As for the police reports, wait for the police to finish their investigations."

After being advised by Deputy Speaker Datuk Ronald Kiandee, Karpal said Terengganu state exco member Da-tuk Rosol Wahid and 22 assemblymen initially did not agree with the sultan's choice of menteri besar.

"Doesn't their action constitute a challenge to the sultan? Will the government take action against them? If not, doesn't this constitute double standards? Why am I being victimised?" he said.

UMNO Veteran joining DAP-led State Government

I am enjoying the happenings in Penang. I have only one word for the Penang State Government, REMARKABLE. On the other hand, for the UMNO Veteran, it is two words, BE CAREFUL. As for UMNO to the Veteran, three words, YOU ARE FIRED and lastly for BN as a whole it is four words i.e. GOING AGAINST BN POLICY.

That is the end of the story...

------------------

(Bernama) BUTTERWORTH, May 11 -- Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng today confirmed that an Umno veteran leader had accepted the offer to serve in the state government.

He said the Umno veteran accepted the offer after he resigned from his post in Umno.

"We offered him to join the state government in the interest of the people.

"I will make an official announcement on this and will reveal the name of the Umno veteran at a suitable time," he told reporters after opening the Perai DAP service centre here.

Lim said the appointment letter had been forwarded to the Umno veteran who would join the state government soon, but he declined to disclose the post.

Asked whether there would a difference in the state administration after this, he said: "This is only the beginning.

"What's wrong with Umno working with the state governmeent when it is promoting CAT (competency, accountability dan transparency)?"

Lim said the state government was sincere in making the offer to the Umno veteran and it should be seen in a wider context, not just politics.

Kit's Press Statement on PM's remarked on Karpal

Abdullah setting bad and dangerous precedent in publicly pressurizing Attorney-General to charge Karpal for sedition and turn a legal issue into a political and racial one

The Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is setting a bad and dangerous precedent in publicly pressurizing the Attorney-General, Tan Sri Gani Patail to charge DAP National Chairman and MP for Bukit Gelugor, Karpal Singh for sedition and turn a legal issue into a political and racial one.

This is the first time in 50 years that a Prime Minister had so flagrantly and blatantly put public pressure on the Attorney-General to prosecute an Opposition leader, making a total mockery of the absolute discretion of the Attorney-General as entrenched in Article 145(3) of the Constitution “to institute, conduct or discontinue any proceedings for an offence, other than proceedings before a Syariah Court, a native court or a court-martial”.

On Thursday, Abdullah said he had instructed UMNO secretary-general Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor to lodge a police report against Karpal for making allegedly seditious remarks about the Sultan of Perak when Karpal had reiterated publicly that he had not questioned Sultan Azlan Shah’s prerogatives as the state’s head of religion of Islam.

Yesterday, the Prime Minister has upped the ante by publicly demanding that the Attorney-General to speed up the probe against Karpal.

Abdullah has never shown interest or concern as Prime Minister about high-profile cases, whether police reports previously made against Cabinet Ministers or recently against UMNO for the series of seditious conducts against the Malay Rulers after the March 8 general election over the appointment of the Terengganu Mentri Besar.

Abdullah should have used his high office to end the controversy which arose from the distortion of Karpal’s raising of a legal principle established by the case of Federal Territory Education Director and others vs Loot Ting Yee about the transfer of federal and state civil servants into a challenge of the prerogative of Sultan Azlan Shah over matters pertaining to Islam and Malay custom.

The country is trying to come out of the “judicial darkness” which it had been plunged into for two decades as a result of the series of crises of confidence and credibility in the independence, impartiality and integrity of the system of justice – not just about the judiciary but also other important players especially the Attorney-General.

The Prime Minister’s public and persistent demand for action to be taken against Karpal by the Attorney-General does not create confidence that the present administration is fully committed to end the two-decade-long “judicial darkness” in the country by allowing all the major stakeholders in the system of justice their full and unfettered independence and impartiality - whether judges or the Attorney-General.

Loot Ting Yee -vs- Natang by Terengganu UMNO

Karpal Singh quoted a legal case in Pengarah Pelajaran Wilayah Persekutuan & Others -v- Loot Ting Yee where the Federal Court had decided that a civil servant did not have a right to be heard as transfer does not amount to dismissal or reduction in rank. He had said the principles in the decision apply equally to state civil servants.

VERSUS

'Natang' a word by Terengganu UMNO after the Sultan of Terengganu appoints another to replace Idris Jusoh (the former MB of Terengganu).

Now which is more TERUK. Karpal or Terengganu UMNO? Karpal was quoting a legal principle to substantiate his claim where as Terengganu UMNO was acting on their emotions due to the fact that the Royalty of Terengganu appoint another and not the choice of PM as MB.

If Karpal is prosecuted, then something is so wrong with our legal system.

Karpal Singh seditious? Hmmmmm I don't think so

There you go... a police report was lodged against the former Tiger of Jelutong, Karpal Singh (MP for Bukit Gelugor) for sedition. Maybe we should turn back the clock some decades ago when it was the Barisan Nasional government that took away the immunity of the royalty by way of amending the constitution. Now is that menderhaka?

What about the UMNO Youth Head statements and gestures of the keris? Is that seditious?

What about the notion of Ketuanan Melayu? Is that seditious? Harming the harmony of the state.

Or what about the Terengganu UMNO going into the streets that had banner stating "natang". Is that seditious and an act of treason against our beloved Supreme Ruler who happened to be the Sultan of Terengganu.

Now I think the police should act in a more independent way.

----------------- taken from The Star

KUALA LUMPUR: Three police reports have been lodged against Bukit Gelugor MP Karpal Singh for his statements against the Sultan of Perak Sultan Azlan Shah, who directed the Perak Government to reinstate state Religious Department director Datuk Jamry Sury.

Umno secretary-general Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club (BNBBC) chairman Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing and Malay Unity Action Front chairman Osman Abu Bakar lodged the reports separately yesterday.

Tengku Adnan said the comments made by Karpal Singh were seditious and were an insult to the royalty.

“He had made a strong comment that the Sultan and royalty were subject to the law just like a normal citizen following the amendments to the Federal Constitution in 1993.

“The comments were like a warning to the Sultan of Perak and other Malay Rulers that they should not interfere in state administrative matters,” he said after lodging the report at 5.15pm at the Sentul police station here.

Tengku Adnan said Karpal Singh’s comments could incite anti-King and anti-Rulers sentiments among the people and expected more police reports to be lodged.

Earlier, Tiong who is also Bintulu MP, lodged a similar report against Karpal Singh at the Brickfields police station.

Five others including the BNBBC vice-chairman Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi, who is also the Batu Pahat MP, and Razali Ibrahim, who is Muar MP, and the club’s legal adviser accompanied him to the police station.

He claimed that the report on Karpal Singh’s statements was lodged to defend the rights and privileges of the Sultan of Perak and Malay Rulers under the Federal and state Constitutions.

Osman also lodged a report at the Brickfields police station on the same issue and on Karpal Singh insulting the Malay Rulers by asking who had prepared the King's speech when he opened the 12th Parliament session last week.

In Ipoh, Perak Umno Youth called for Karpal Singh to be charged under the Sedition Act.

Kit's Parliamentary Opening on Police Abuse of Powers on Malacca ADUNs

In Parliament house, YB Lim Kit Siang (Ipoh Timur) raised the issue of the unlawful arrest of YB Lim Jack Wong (ADUN Bachang), YB Goh Leong San (ADUN Kesidang) and YB Sim Tong Him (Kota Melaka).

Food Supply? It is enough?

I am in a PAS flyer. Never dreamt before that I' will be speaking in the same podium with YB Mahfuz Omar (Member of Parliament for Pokok Sena). Beautifully, last week I spoke with Mohamad Sabu or better known as Mat Sabu.

It is interesting to engage with PAS leaders so as to know their intention and mind. And yes I am impressed with the two PAS leaders. Both spoke very well and I am so glad that YB Mahfuz Omar spoke in length on the Food Security (Keselamatan Makanan). I am of the opinion that the motion by Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah is very apt, urgent and important for the safe guarding of food supplies especially rice in the country. Stock piling of rice MUST be advocated so as to see continue supply of rice. The motion in English is reproduced below:-

Datin Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Binti Wan Ismail [ Permatang Pauh ] to ask the MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND AGRO-BASED INDUSTRY to state :-
(a) measures taken to guarantee food security in the country especially for the country to have a sufficient rice supply at an affordable price; and
(b) the guarantee that the Government is able to control Bernas policy in supplying rice and that Bernas will not take advantage of the crisis.

I am crossing my fingers, that at least, there should be stock piling of rice for up to a year. If anything less than a year, we are in deep trouble, which I think we are in deeper troubles now. I got a strong feeling that we have only the most 3 months of stock pile. If this is the case, then there will be a food crisis looming in Malaysia. Evidenced can be seen in the price of rice these couple of days.

It is so unfortunate, that the country is run by 'dungus'. There is no foresight (tiada wawasan) by our government. Strict and quick measures and policies must be drawn up or it will be the survival of the fittest. We cannot deny this threat of shortage of food supplies in Malaysia.