Malaysia Today - Your Source of Independent News
Malaysia Today - Your Source of Independent News |
- Dr Hasan Ali to answer 'Umno agenda' on Saturday
- Nik Aziz tells PAS to snub ‘enemy media’
- Carpetman Jaikishan gives RM767,000 from penny stock sale to charity
- MACC seizes desktop PC, documents from NFC office
- Khir says made a scapegoat
- Khir Toyo guilty of graft, jailed 1 year
- MACC officers raid NFC
- Fearing persecution, ‘gay marriage’ student says won’t come home
- Mustafa tells Hasan to stop media tirade against PAS
- Duo to face PAS top guns
- Opposition in-fighting to worsen
- ‘Don’t be cowed by false allegations’
- Global depression could last several years: Medvedev
- Mustafa Ali denies Hasan Ali's claims
- Hasan Ali fighting back
- Man arrested in bribery bid, believed linked to NFC
- Property market to see a gradual slowdown next year
- MAS admits cargo unit ‘under review’
- Nasha: I’m with PAS, never Umno
- Explain Puasa month meeting at hotel, Hasan told
- Reject Ketuanan Melayu, Sabah Muslims told
- ‘Umno wants rebel leader to remain in PAS’
- Blogger lodges report against Taiping MP
- Pakatan to hold final convention in January before polls
- Prove blogger’s claims are false, rep urged
- Police report lodged against protesters
- Wong: Hasan’s apostasy comments his opinion
- Hasan: PAS has lost sight of the Malays
- DAP mum on PAS debacle
- Jamil wants Islamic units meet on sexuality, apostasy
- Poor English skills, race quotas in way of Malaysian prosperity, says ST
- PKR reveals new ‘proof’ in World Bank row
- Islamic state not in PAS constitution
- ‘I’m not involved’: Shahrizat says it again
- RM34 million for ‘scrap metal’ helicopters
- Sabah has right to deny visitors entry
- Under attack, PAS maintains Islamic agenda party priority
- Taib hits the roof at ‘daring’ reporter
- MAS probes graft claims in cargo unit, boss put on leave
- Fatwa panel to discuss the use of indelible ink
- Dr M saved nation, says Najib
- BN man pockets RM1m in Salcra dividends
- PAS rubbishes claim of DAP eyeing Selangor MB post
- Mahathir says it again: "Wasn't me"
- Dr M says took, but never sought, World Bank loans
- Hasan Ali says gathering proof of Christian proselytism
- Dr M: ‘I was the most feared PM’
- Police to call witnesses in Penang CM's officer assault
- Facebook Hits 70% Penetration Rate in Malaysia
- Senate stamps approval on assembly bill
| Dr Hasan Ali to answer 'Umno agenda' on Saturday Posted: 22 Dec 2011 08:27 PM PST (Bernama) - Datuk Dr Hasan Ali will answer an allegation linking him to the Umno agenda levelled against him by party secretary-general Datuk Mustafa Ali on Saturday. "Let's wait, I'll explain tomorrow. I will give a press conference at my house at 11am," said Hasan, who is Selangor Islamic Affairs, Malay Customs, Infrastructure and Public Facilities Committee chairman when contacted Friday. On Thursday, Mustafa claimed that he had evidence to link Hasan to the Umno agenda. Mustafa said this emanated from a meeting between Hasan and PAS former deputy president Nasharuddin Mat Isa, and three individuals at a hotel in the capital last Ramadan. Nasharuddin could not be contacted for clarification. In KOTA BARU, Perkasa president Datuk Ibrahim Ali said it was high time for Hasan to join Perkasa if he felt that he could not fulfil his aspiration to uphold Islam and fight for the Malays through PAS. Ibrahim said he recently made the offer to Hasan after he was sidelined by PAS but had yet to get an answer.
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| Nik Aziz tells PAS to snub ‘enemy media’ Posted: 22 Dec 2011 08:16 PM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat has called on PAS not to provide fodder for Barisan Nasional (BN) and avoid airing their grievances in media outlets controlled by the party's political opponents. The PAS spiritual leader said in a statement yesterday that disagreements should be settled internally instead, after recent attacks by renegade leaders Datuk Hasan Ali and Nasharudin Mat Isa. "I call on all quarters in the party not to use mass media owned by political enemies of PAS to talk about internal problems. "I am confident that what has happened recently is a small storm that has been exaggerated in the mass media. After this small storm, a cooling rain will fall," the Kelantan mentri besar said. Selangor executive councillor Hasan and former deputy president Nasharudin have repeatedly criticised the party for ostensibly deviating from its Islamic agenda during recent interviews with Umno-linked Utusan Malaysia and Berita Harian. Hasan has also been featured almost nightly on TV3, criticising the party that removed him as Selangor chief after its muktamar in June. The party decided on Wednesday to summon both Hasan and Nasharudin to explain their recent outbursts and public criticisms against the party.
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| Carpetman Jaikishan gives RM767,000 from penny stock sale to charity Posted: 22 Dec 2011 08:08 PM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Carpet and property dealer Deepak Jaikishan, who gained infamy after being linked to the murder scandal of Altantuya Shaariibuu, denied today any wrongdoing in his rapid entrance and exit of Envair Holding Bhd, which netted him RM767,000 in the process. Jaikishan, who was accused of silencing a key witness in the gruesome 2006 murder of the Mongolian woman, told reporters he was donating the gains made from the transaction to seven different charities to clear his name. "We don't need this kind of money. We don't need to profit wrongly. It will look very bad for me," he said, when asked if he was donating the money to dispel speculation of insider trading or manipulation. The Carpet Raya Sdn Bhd director sold six million shares of the loss-making air and water filter manufacturer less than two weeks after buying them, or the equivalent of a 5.06 per cent stake. He built up the stake up to December 2, when Envair stood at 22 sen per share and sold his holding on the open market 12 days later when it traded at between 34.5 sen and 38 sen. Chinese national Zhang LiYing also sold his 9.11 per cent stake in Envair on the same day, two months after acquiring it. They followed the exit of another Chinese national, Jiang Chuan Yi, who disposed of his 6.75 per cent holding in Envair less than a month after acquiring it on November 1. Jaikishan had earlier said he would not dispose of his stake as he aimed to be part of the company board following its deal to enter the oil and gas sector by supplying two million barrels of light crude oil monthly for 60 months to China-based An Hong Shenzhen.
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| MACC seizes desktop PC, documents from NFC office Posted: 22 Dec 2011 08:06 PM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers carted away a desktop computer's central processing unit (CPU) and four documents from the National Feedlot Corporation's (NFC) office here at the end of their raid today. Supt Wan Abdul Rahman Wan Mohd Salleh, along with seven other officers from Putrajaya MACC, left the offices of the scandal-hit company at Solaris Mont Kiara here at 4.50pm after questioning staff for two hours. NFC runs the National Feedlot Centre in Gemas, which has been at the centre of a storm of controversy ever since the Auditor-General highlighted the publicly funded cattle-raising project as "a mess" in his report this year. NFC is headed by Datuk Seri Dr Mohamed Salleh Ismail, husband to Women, Family and Community Minister and Wanita Umno chief, Datuk Seri Shahrizat Jalil. Their children are also directors in the company. Today's raid follows an announcement by MACC yesterday that it would investigate allegations the NFC had misappropriated government funds, despite previously saying it would not probe the matter. The national anti-graft body had earlier referred the case to the police, who are now conducting an investigation into possible criminal breach of trust. The MACC also confirmed yesterday it had remanded a businessman, said to be a Datuk, for questioning in relation to the case. The 45-year-old suspect had earlier been detained by police for allegedly trying to bribe senior CCID officers believed to be involved in the NFC probe.
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| Posted: 22 Dec 2011 06:02 PM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Dr Mohamed Khir Toyo said today he was being made a political fall guy, following his conviction for abusing his influence to buy a luxury home and land at a discount of up to RM3 million. The former Selangor mentri besar has maintained his innocence, insisting that the RM3.5 million deal was at market value and on a "willing buyer, willing seller" basis. "Right from the start," he said when asked by reporters after the guilty verdict if he was being made a political scapegoat. After judge Datuk Mohtarudin Baki ordered the seizure of the property and sentenced the Sungai Panjang assemblyman to 12 months jail, Dr Khir told reporters that "this is not the final judgment and I will continue to fight to clear my name." "On the question of politics, I will answer after January 9," he added in an apparent reference to the date of Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's sodomy verdict. Dr Khir appeared to be referring to speculation that he would be given a hefty sentence to avoid allegations of injustice should PKR de facto leader Anwar be found guilty. Earlier, Mohtarudin had ruled that the conviction under Section 165 of the Penal Code also invoked Section 36 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, which mandates that the court seize property that is the subject of a graft offence. However, he granted Dr Khir a stay of execution pending an appeal that defence lawyer M. Athimulan said would be filed this afternoon.
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| Khir Toyo guilty of graft, jailed 1 year Posted: 22 Dec 2011 05:41 PM PST The former Selangor MB was however allowed a stay of execution of jail time and forfeiture of the properties pending an appeal. (Free Malaysia Today) - Former Selangor menteri besar Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo was found guilty by the High Court here today on a charge of obtaining for himself and his wife a valuable property at a consideration he knew was insufficient, four years ago. He was sentenced to one year in jail from today. The court also ordered Khir's land and bungalow be forfeited. Khir was however allowed a stay of execution of jail time and forfeiture of the properties pending an appeal. Khir is expected to file his appeal later today. Judge Mohtarudin Baki (now Appeals Court Judge) reached the decision upon finding that the defense had failed to raise a reasonable doubt on the case against Khir, 46. Khir was earlier ordered to enter his defence on the charge of obtaining for himself and his wife Zahrah Kechik, 46, two lots of land and a bungalow at No 8 & 10, Jalan Suasa 7/1L through Ditamas Sdn Bhd director Shamsuddin Hayroni. The properties were bought at RM3.5 million, in contrast to the price of RM6.5 million paid for it by Ditamas on Dec 23 2004. Khir had committed the offence with the knowledge that Shamsuddin had dealings with him in his official capacity as Selangor Menteri Besar at the time.
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| Posted: 22 Dec 2011 05:38 PM PST Six officers from Putrajaya decend on NFC head office in Solaris Mont Kiara. (Free Malaysia Today) - Six Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) enforcement officers raided the National Feedlot Corporation (NFC) office located in Solaris Mont Kiara this afternoon. Of the six, five were plainclothes officers. The raid began at 3pm and is reportedly in connection to the NFC scandal. Staff were seen cooperating with the officials as they ushered them into the office premises. Two more MACC officers entered the premises at about 4pm, carrying two large briefcases. The raid lasted about two hours. MACC's operations enforcement officer Wan Abdul Rahman Wan Mohd Salleh said that they interviewed the NFC staff only. "They gave us their full cooperation. "We have confiscated four A4-sized envelopes of documents and a CPU," he said. Yesterday, police arrested a 45-year-old businessman for allegedly attempting to bribe senior officers who were investigating the NFC scandal. Also yesterday, the MACC announced that a special team has been formed to investigate allegations of corruption in the management of public funds for the NFC. The special team is headed by the commission's Director of Investigations, Mustafar Ali. A messy business
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| Fearing persecution, ‘gay marriage’ student says won’t come home Posted: 22 Dec 2011 09:37 AM PST (National Express Malaysia) - A Malaysian who reportedly married his Irish lover in a same-sex civil union has said he would fear for his safety if he were to return home. The Irish Times reported 28-year-old Ariff Alfian Rosli as saying he had never wanted to create any trouble or controversy, and that the reason why he could not return home to work was because of perceived attitudes towards same-sex relationships here.
The controversy erupted after pictures taken at Ariff Alfian Rosli's same-sex civil union surfaced on the internet last week, three years after the University College Dublin medical student was reported missing by his family.
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| Mustafa tells Hasan to stop media tirade against PAS Posted: 22 Dec 2011 09:23 AM PST "When he makes wild claims, of course other PAS leaders would answer him back for the sake of the party. To stop this feud, it is simple. Hasan needs to stop talking. Then I too will stop talking as there will be no need to respond to his statements." (Harakah Daily) - Former Selangor PAS commissioner Hasan Ali was delivered another sharp rebuke today by PAS secretary general Mustafa Ali, telling the Selangor state Exco to stop using the media to criticise the Islamic party and emulate former deputy president Nasharudin Mat Isa by coming clean and shutting the door at UMNO. Speaking to reporters, Mustafa who had earlier accused Hasan of dancing to UMNO's tune, said he would himself stop airing his views on Hasan if the latter stops issuing public statements on PAS, which Mustafa described as baseless criticism. "When he makes wild claims, of course other PAS leaders would answer him back for the sake of the party. To stop this feud, it is simple. Hasan needs to stop talking. Then I too will stop talking as there will be no need to respond to his statements," said Mustafa. Hasan, who had been given wide coverage by UMNO-owned media, again spoke to TV3 last night in what is being seen by many as a prelude to his impending defection. Among others, the one-time television motivational speaker claimed that the 'professionals' now outnumber the ulama in PAS. He also poured scorn on the party's benevolent state concept agreed during PAS Muktamar in June, claiming that PAS had deviated from its Islamic struggle. Although both Hasan and Nasharuddin echoed each other in their views, the latter yesterday made it clear that he would remain loyal to the Islamic party and dismissed speculation that he would jump ship. In contrast, Hasan revealed that he had agreement with the views of Malay right-wing politician Zulkifli Noordin, who left PKR last year citing his "love for Islam". Zulkifli had since embraced UMNO's Perkasa and accused PKR de-facto leader of sodomy.
Hasan's claim of defending the ulama in PAS however did not impress the party's shura (Consultative) council leader Tuan Guru Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, who said he would be the first to speak out if indeed Hasan's allegations were true. "Hence, the allegation that the benevolent state introduced by PAS president had deviated from the original struggle is nonsense," said the Kelantan Menteri Besar in a statement. Mustafa, meanwhile, reiterated his earlier claim that Hasan fell victim to UMNO's game. "Being trapped in UMNO's agenda does not need one to quit PAS and join UMNO. If the person had quit the party and joined UMNO, he would not be taken seriously by and his allegations will not have any influence on PAS members as he is no longer believable. "The more dangerous trap that every member and leader must realise is when one continues to stay in the party and makes many baseless allegations against PAS and its principle. If this happens, the individual not only can influence the enemy but at the same confuse his own members with his baseless claims," stressed Mustafa, who disagreed with the suggestion that Hasan would join UMNO. "I don't think UMNO will accept him as well. I was ready to forgive him... but when he criticised the party and made baseless statements against the party, I cannot forgive... I cannot keep quiet," said the veteran PAS leader from Terengganu. Mustafa's latest statement comes in the wake of an announcement by information chief Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man that the party would call Nasharuddin, Hasan and Selangor PAS information chief Saari Sungip to explain their recent media statements. "With the general election looming, PAS will not tolerate any sabotage whether internal or external that could affect the party's final preparation," said Tuan Ibrahim, who reminded members to embrace teamwork.
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| Posted: 22 Dec 2011 09:08 AM PST (The Star) - PAS leadership will call embattled leaders Datuk Dr Hasan Ali and Nasharudin Mat Isa to explain their recent outbursts and criticisms against the party. Its secretary-general Datuk Mustafa Ali said the two would be informed of the meeting by information chief Datuk Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man. He said president Datuk Seri Hadi Awang would be present to hear their explanations, mostly on their dissatisfaction over the party leadership. "This session is important because we want to know why and what are they not satisfied about. "An explanation is also necessary to clear the air. It is not good to wash dirty linen in public," Mustafa said in an interview yesterday. Mustafa added that Selangor PAS information chief Saari Sungib would also be called to explain his statement that Dr Hasan would be dropped from the candidate list for the next general election. He, however, said no date had been fixed for Dr Hasan, Nasharudin and Saari to meet the party leadership but stressed that it would have to be carried out soonest. "We are going to face the general election soon. It is best we focus our energy and efforts to ensure victory for Pakatan Rakyat," he said. Asked if action would be taken against the three, particularly Dr Hasan and Nasharudin, Mustafa sidestepped the issue, saying what was important for the party now was to listen to what the two disgruntled members had to say. At a press conference in Kuala Lumpur later, Mustafa challenged Dr Hasan to explain if a "clandestine meeting" had taken place during the fasting month. He claimed that apart from Dr Hasan, Nasharudin and "at least three others" had also attended the meeting held at a hotel in the city. "I want to ask him what was discussed? Was it an economic project, politics or is it both?" he asked. Former PAS deputy president Nasharudin and Dr Hasan, who is Selangor exco and former state commissioner, have been under fire from party colleagues over the past several weeks.
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| Opposition in-fighting to worsen Posted: 22 Dec 2011 09:07 AM PST (The Star) - MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek has predicted more intense fighting in the Pakatan Rakyat as the general election draws near. He said the spat in PAS involving former Selangor chief Datuk Dr Hasan Ali was only a prelude to more squabbles in the Opposition coalition. "Members in PAS, DAP and PKR are fighting to become election candidates," he said at a press conference to mark the Eco Green Winter Solstice Celebration at the Sungai Wang Plaza here yesterday. "Everybody wants to be a YB. I anticipate more in-fighting. For example, DAP members in Johor are already fighting among themselves because they feel they can win the state. Later in MUAR, Dr Chua said Pakatan component parties were facing serious problems because their leaders thought that they could take over the Federal Government. He said the DAP had become over-confident and felt that the Chinese would support the party. "At the same time, PAS is facing problems related to its Islamic policies among its leaders, besides its ongoing disagreement with DAP over the Islamic state issue. "In PKR, members are leaving because the party lacks direction and because they have lost confidence in its leadership," Dr Chua said at the Hai Yang Club fourth anniversary dinner here. On a separate issue, he said MCA wanted the minimum wage in the country to be at least RM900, to put Malaysia on par with Hong Kong and Singapore. "Malaysia cannot continue to depend on foreign workers and low wages to be competitive."
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| ‘Don’t be cowed by false allegations’ Posted: 22 Dec 2011 08:41 AM PST In his Christmas message, head of the Malacca and Johor diocese Bishop Paul Tan urges Christians not to be discouraged or intimidated by false allegations. (Free Malaysia Today) - In his Christmas message, head of the Malacca and Johor diocese Bishop Paul Tan has urged Christians not to be discouraged or intimidated by false allegations. The oustpoken Catholic leader also stressed that every person has the right to propose what he or she believes in but has no right to impose it on others. "In spite of the false accusations by certain quarters and in the face of a spate of allegations without proof, for example, the accusation to make Malaysia Christian and the Damansara Utama Methodist Centre's charity party to convert Muslims, etc, we should not be cowed to stop proclaiming Jesus Christ as God's love made manifest to us humans. "Besides, it is a command directly from Jesus Christ himself before he ascended into Heaven: 'Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit'. (Mt 28:19)," he said. Tan said that while freedom and truth are interlinked, freedom without regard to the truth, however, is gross irresponsibility and cannot be considered as true freedom. "The Truth of Jesus Christ gives us the freedom to, in the words of Pope Benedict XVI, 'speak out, humbly yet insistently, in defence of moral truth' – of justice, of equality before God, of human dignity, etc. In short and in other words, we have to stand up for human rights," he added. Tan also encouraged those celebrating Christmas to continue the "excellent tradition" in Malaysia of holding open houses. "The Bible constantly reminds us to be open and hospitable to all who come our way, especially to strangers and the less fortunate. "Is there anything objectionable in giving to anyone the love of God? If there is someone who objects to receiving God's love, he or she must be insane," he said. Below is the full text of Bishop Tan's Christmas message: Christmas is a time of peace and joy at the good news brought to us by the angels: the Saviour of the world is born. We should not be ashamed to announce this, as our Pope Benedict XVI told the 20 bishops of New York gathered in Vatican's Apostolic Palace on Nov 26, 2011 (published in Herald on the Dec 4, 2011 issue, page 9.) Sharing with all peoples the infinite saving love of God in Jesus Christ which brings peace and joy is indeed very good news. This is the spirit of Christmas. Here, in Malaysia, the excellent tradition of "Open house" should be used by us to share our love of God that brings joy and peace to all who are open to receive Him. Besides, the Bible constantly reminds us to be open and hospitable to all who come our way, especially to strangers and the less fortunate. Is there anything objectionable in giving to anyone the love of God? If there is someone who objects to receiving God's love, he or she must be insane.
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| Global depression could last several years: Medvedev Posted: 22 Dec 2011 01:09 AM PST (AFP) -- President Dmitry Medvedev warned Thursday that a global economic depression could last for several years and require Russia to step up efforts to improve its competitiveness. "We really are facing difficult times," Medvedev said in his last address to the nation before March presidential elections in which he will be ceding his place to his predecessor and mentor Vladimir Putin. "The global economic depression could last several years, while competition for the minds, the ideas, the resources -- it will only get stiffer, and we are in the epicentre of this race. "But even in these most difficult times, we have no right to stop our development. This work will require perseverance, effort and, of course, time." Both Putin and Medvedev have taken credit for helping Russia survive the worst of the 2008-2009 global financial crisis and insisted that only their team will be able to deal with current economic challenges. Medvedev noted that "many politicians, heads of international organisations and leading economists and businessmen" have all warned of the onset of a global economic depression in the months to come. "It is obvious that difficult times await us all," Medvedev stressed. "I have already said that our country honourably survived the test of crisis. The current team passed this test. "I hope that we will cope with the new challenges, whoever becomes Russian president or whoever heads the federal government," he added in reference to the premiership post he has been promised by Putin under his presidency.
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| Mustafa Ali denies Hasan Ali's claims Posted: 22 Dec 2011 01:07 AM PST (Bernama) -- PAS secretary-general Datuk Mustafa Ali today denied the party's Gombak assemblyman Datuk Dr Hasan Ali's claims that PAS was losing grassroots support because it had deviated from its original struggle of championing Islam. However, he did not deny the possibility that fence sitters might have doubts as to where PAS was heading. Speaking to reporters here today, Mustafa said PAS' main policy of championing Islam remained intact and that its members understood this. "Islam is PAS' main struggle and this has never changed. It is only the strategies and approach that have changed. PAS' collaboration with other parties is not wrong, the policy remains the same but the approach is different," he said. On Tuesday, Hasan, who is also a Selangor state executive councillor, had said that he had proof that die-hard PAS supporters were beginning to question the party's struggle and planned to stop backing PAS because it had deviated from its original struggle. In KOTA BHARU, Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, who is also PAS' spiritual leader, also denied that the "welfare state" concept now championed by PAS deviated from Islam. Hasan had also claimed PAS was deviating from championing Islam by introducing the welfare state concept. Nik Aziz said the concept only served to further reinforce its Islamic struggle.
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| Posted: 22 Dec 2011 01:05 AM PST (Sin Chew Daily) - Having learned that he has been dropped as a candidate in the coming general election, PAS' Hasan Ali launched an instant strike back. Besides refuting allegations that he was championing cross-party cooperation with Umno, he also slammed the party central for forsaking the party's original objective of establishing an Islamic state. Hasan Ali is a piece of thorn in the flesh of the Paktan-led Selangor state government, and his mentality is drifting further and further apart from the party's core leadership. After the non-ulama sect has won the party elections, even president Hadi Awang openly pledges that the party would not work with Umno and would stay loyal to its Pakatan.allies. Hasan Ali has lost his support inside the party while the rift with the more open-minded leaders in the party widens. A strong supporter of the party president, Hasan Ali was appointed the state Exco member in charge of religious affairs. His numerous "misdemeanours" such as banning the sale of liquor in Shah Alam's convenience stores, barring liquor-selling entertainment spots in Subang Jaya from hiring Muslim workers, cracking down on "indecent" acts on Valentine's Day, and the raid by JAIS on the DUMC, have all been condoned by the people. In open defiance of the party's resolution, he showed up at the mammoth anti-apostasy rally organised by Perkasa and other NGOs in October. But what really blasts off the ammunition is an Utusan article stating that he fell short of the required divisional nomination quota to make it to the list of electoral candidates. The article went on to say that he was the only "saviour" to deliver Selangor out of the doldrums and unite the Malays. Although PAS initially denied it had sidelined Hasan Ali, he nevertheless targeted his firepower at the party leadership, claiming that he would stay loyal to Allah alone and would not require the approval from the party. Secretary-general Mustafa Ali accused both Hasan Ali and former deputy president Nasharudin Mat Isa of leaning towards Umno, saying that PAS would be least concerned about them leaving the party and joining Umno. From a more positive perspective, conflicts arising before the general election are not a bad thing, as they give the party a chance to fix its problems ahead of the election, provided that such conflicts would not tear the party apart. Two things PAS should avoid at all costs: 1. Hasan Ali has accused the party leadership of forsaking the Islamic state objective in favour of a welfare state in order to please its Pakatan allies, and such an accusation would inevitably gain him massive support from the party's conservatives and religious clerics. If unfortunately the differences in ideology get widened into a destructive rift, the party could be split into two distinct camps not unlike the Camp A and Camp B during the 1987 Umno infighting. It is imperative that PAS resolve the Islamic state and welfare state controversies, or it will not be able to go into the election battlefield in unison. Despite the clarification by vice president Salahuddin Ayub that PAS advocates a caring and equitable society, not a welfare state, it is still essential for the party to make its stand clear and obvious. 2. Hasan Ali and Nasharudin alone will not bring down PAS, but if other leaders such as Youth chairman Nasrudin Hassan, Federal Territory Youth chief Kamaruzaman Mohamed and the PAS Ulama Council have voiced their support, the destruction could be definite. The current rift within PAS would determine whether the party would eventually persist on its moderate approach or would return to conservatism.
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| Man arrested in bribery bid, believed linked to NFC Posted: 21 Dec 2011 05:48 PM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Police have arrested a man who allegedly tried to bribe senior officers investigating a high-profile commercial crime, believed to be linked to the National Feedlot Corporation (NFC) scandal. The police obtained a remand order from the magistrates court today for the 45-year-old man.
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| Property market to see a gradual slowdown next year Posted: 21 Dec 2011 04:49 PM PST (Bernama) - The Malaysian property market is likely to see a gradual slowdown next year, taking into consideration the uncertainty in the global economic situation. President of Fiabci Malaysia, Yeow Thit Sang, said the high-end residential units were already seeing a slowdown both in pricing and the take-up rate. "There are fewer expatriates from multinational companies (MNCs) coming here and rentals with a yield of between six and eight per cent are no longer achievable. "Investors in these units will have to wait longer to realise their investment. The slowdown in global economy is definitely affecting the high-end property market," he told Bernama in an interview recently. He also saw a fallout for office space next year, saying the category was already overbuilt and the overhang felt in the market with rental falling and a slow take-up rate. However, there is a huge demand for low medium and medium-cost residential units below RM300,000 with most developers building high-end units to cash in on the good time. "The government's effort in building such units in joint venture with developers will help the low income earners to own affordable homes. "Building such units will not be fast enough to relieve the pent-up demand over the last five years," he added. Meanwhile, Zerin Properties' chief executive officer, Previndran Singhe, said the slowdown in the property market would only last in the first quarter next year and the industry will be stable afterwards. "Prices will remain stable, with asking prices, not values, becoming more reasonable as owners check their values to real pricing. "At present, sentiment is down due to the eurozone financial crisis and the US double dip fears, which has been faring for a long time, but I think we are more Asia focused," he told Bernama. If and when China goes on reverse gear, then there would have to be concerns in the market, otherwise, barring external shocks, the industry should have a stable year next year, he said. Contrary to common belief and expectations, the property market has registered 214,764 transactions worth RM64.75 billion within the first half of 2011. Against the first half of 2010, the volume and value of transactions recorded double digit growth of 18.1% and 29.7% respectively.
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| MAS admits cargo unit ‘under review’ Posted: 21 Dec 2011 04:42 PM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Loss-making Malaysia Airlines (MAS) confirmed today MAS Airlines Cargo's (MASkargo) "under review" with its managing director Shahari Sulaiman on extended leave. The Malaysian Insider reported yesterday the flag carrier is investigating allegations of kickbacks in its cargo unit that has led Shahari to go on leave since early November. It is understood that an internal investigation report has been sent to the MAS board although the unprofitable airlines has not lodged a police report over the issue. "We confirm that since Encik Shahari Sulaiman went on leave, his deputy, Encik Mohd Yunus Idris, assumes his responsibilities as is normally the case in most organisations. "As part of the Business Plan to improve operational, administrative and financial management of all MAS subsidiaries, MASkargo's operations and management structure are also under review," it said in a response to The Malaysian Insider. The Malaysian Insider reported that new managing director Ahmad Jauhari Yahya and the top management have been going through the books for all divisions in the national carrier that has posted losses of some RM1.2 billion in the three quarters of the current financial year. MAS is not expected to make profits until 2013 despite a new business recovery plan. However, it is not clear why MAS has not lodged a police report over the alleged kickbacks in MASkargo, which made a record pre-tax profit of RM142 million in 2010. It is understood that investigations started and a domestic inquiry was done but fresh allegations revived the probe. The Business Times had reported that Shahari has been away since early last month after fresh allegations about problems in the cargo unit. The new MAS board had begun looking into all aspects of the airline operations after a share swap between the national carrier and Asia's biggest budget carrier, AirAsia in early August.
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| Nasha: I’m with PAS, never Umno Posted: 21 Dec 2011 04:36 PM PST (The Star) - Embattled former PAS deputy president Nasharudin Mat Isa has pledged his loyalty to his party, denying claims he intends to join Umno. "All these claims that I am trapped in the agenda and games of our political enemies are far from the truth and baseless," Nasharudin said in a press statement yesterday. He noted that ever since he had joined PAS, which he pointed out was the voice of Islam for the country's Muslims, he had never, even for one moment, stated that he intended to join Umno. "I would like to stress, for the umpteenth time, that there is not an iota of truth of my intention to join Umno," he said. "I am a PAS member, and my struggle to uphold Islam and help Muslims in any way remains with PAS." The Bachok MP said his recent actions, opinions and "political calculations" should not be used to make the "simplistic conclusion" that he had plans to join Umno. Nasharudin has been under fire over his allegations in an interview with a Malay daily that the party was "loose" and had "cast aside" its Islamic principles to pursue political power. He was quoted as saying that public perception was that the party had not been steadfast on several matters and described this as "dangerous". Nasharudin, who was a two-term deputy president before he was ousted by Mohamad Sabu in the June party elections, said the party should be consistent in making its stand on numerous issues and let the president make the decisions, as was the case in the past. Speculation has been rife that Nasharudin and Selangor executive councillor Datuk Dr Hasan Ali, the former state party chief, would be dropped in the next general election.
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| Explain Puasa month meeting at hotel, Hasan told Posted: 21 Dec 2011 04:01 PM PST PAS secretary-general reveals that a meeting allegedly took place in August between the rebel leader, Nasharuddin and three others. But he refuses to reveal anything more. (Free Malaysia Today) - PAS secretary-general Mustafa Ali has asked rebel leader Hassan Ali to explain the details of a meeting which allegedly took place during the fasting month in August. Previously, Mustafa claimed that Hasan's attacks on PAS resulted from the latter walking into a trap set by the party's rivals Umno, prompting Hasan to challenge Mustafa to provide proof of this. Speaking at a press conference at the PAS headquarters here today, Mustafa said he was aware of Hasan's movements and activities. "I will just say this, he has asked for proof so let him explain the meeting that took place during the Puasa month between him, Nasharudin Mat Isa (former PAS deputy president) and not more than three others at the Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur after tarawih prayers (in the evening). "What was discussed? Was it a political meeting? Was it something to do with economics or both?" he asked. Mustafa, however, refused to comment when asked if the other three were from or linked to Umno. "That is all I want to say. I want Hasan to know that we know his movements. I love (sayang) both Nasharudin and Hasan very much and I have known them for a long time. So I hope Hasan will stop talking (making statements to the press against PAS)," he said.
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| Reject Ketuanan Melayu, Sabah Muslims told Posted: 21 Dec 2011 03:57 PM PST In Kinabatangan constituency, immigrants outnumber locals by five fold. (Free Malaysia Today) - United Borneo Front (UBF), which has been calling for the reinstatement of Sabah and Sarawak rights as stipulated under the Malaysia Agreement, wants Sabah Muslims to reject Umno's 'Ketuanan Melayu" (Malay supremacy) concept. "Sabahan Muslims should reject the Ketuanan Melayu concept because Malays were non-existent during pre-Independence (in Sabah)," said UBF vice chairman Awang Ahmad Shah. "As Sabahans we should look forward above religion and race and not let the federal government divide us by race and religion. "Who will look after us when our oil are exhausted and Sabah becomes a liability to the federal government?" Awang Ahmad said the acceptance of foreigners as 'bumiputeras' or 'Malay' had sidelined local natives. "The federal leaders should make Sabahans proud to be Malaysians by practicing justice and respecting the feelings of Sabahan Malaysians. "We shouldn't be deprived of our rights and our resources as well as the opportunities to develop and progress with dignity. We deserve the right to speak and choose without fear," he added. Awang Ahmad was hitting out at Malaysian Muslim Welfare Association (Pekida) Sabah chairman Mohd Akjan Ali Muhammad who had objected to the proposed Royal Commision of Inquiry (RCI) claiming it would cause racial tension among the various ethnic groups in Sabah. Describing Akjan's claim as not only irresponsible but scandalous, ridiculous and treasonous to all genuine Sabahans, Awang Ahamd said: "All ethnic groups in Sabah including local Suluks and Bajaus have been living together and working hand in hand since Independence in 1963 and have even formed the state government together and shared the power. "Our concern on the wrongful issuance of IC, MyCards and citizenship to the illegal immigrants is genuine as these foreigners have numbered almost equal to the local population." Government ignoring due process Local politicians and civil rights groups are incensed that thousands of allegedly unqualified illegal immigrants have been granted citizenship purely for political purposes. They claim that the mass issuance of MyKads by the federal government to illegal immigrants has encouraged the influx of foreigners to the state to the extent that the local population is on the verge of becoming a minority. Awang Ahmad said that it was ironical that instead of protecting Sabah from being "invaded" by Indonesia or the Philippines as promised by Tunku Abdul Rahman, the present government had caused a reverse takeover of Sabah by ignoring due process and granting citizenship to all-commers. "This is the problem that we are talking about" added Awang Ahmad. "Only the RCI can independently investigate the roots of the problems and offer remedies to be taken to resolve the problem of illegal immigrants and the granting of citizenships to them who are unqualified," he said. UBF, an NGO set up by Jeffrey Kitingan last year, has been warning that Sabahans are feeling threatened on all fronts as employment, education, politics, business and quarrels over land become common along with crime and social problems. Already public transportation such as taxis and buses are dominated by immigrants or new Sabahans while enrollment in public universities and colleges has become more difficult, Awang Ahmad claimed.
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| ‘Umno wants rebel leader to remain in PAS’ Posted: 21 Dec 2011 03:51 PM PST According to the PAS secretary-general, Hasan Ali is more valuable to Umno if he kicks up a fuss from within. He also reiterated the latter may have fallen into a trap. (Free Malaysia Today) - Former Selangor PAS commissioner Dr Hasan Ali will not leave the Islamic party for Umno nor will the latter welcome him, PAS secretary-general Mustafa Ali said today. This was because strategically, the controversial PAS man was much more valuable for Umno if he remained in PAS. "Should he leave the party and criticise PAS, no one will believe him. If you do it (criticise the party) from within the party, it will cause confusion. "It is politically strategic. It works the same with Umno as well. If you are no longer in the party, people will not believe what you say. That is my evaluation (of the situation)," Mustafa told a press conference at the party headquarters here. Hasan's refusal to toe the party line had dominated headlines over the past few days with the veteran politician slamming PAS for deviating from its Islamic struggle. Ressurecting the sensitive Umno-PAS unity talks issue, the Selangor exco for religious affairs also said that he would not mind being the middleman to bring the two arch-rivals together for the sake of Islam. Following Hasan's comments, another round of in-fighting surfaced. This time it was in the form of former deputy president Nasharudin Mat Isa who also echoed that PAS had steered away from its original fight. Nasharudin, however, stated that he would not join Umno. Commenting on this, Mustapa thanked Nasharudin for "distancing himself" from the controversy and urged Hasan to do the same. "If Hasan follows in Nasharudin's footsteps, then it will be over," he said. 'Umno's political trap' Mustapa suggested that Hasan might have fallen into Umno's trap to stir up trouble in PAS, adding that the latter might not even be aware of this. "A political trap is unlike a trap set for a monkey which you can see. You may fall into the (political) trap even without realising that you have walked into it. This (controversy) can give mileage to Umno," he said. Mustafa also said that based on what transpired during a political bureau meeting last night, it was obvious that Hasan did not have the kind of support he claims.
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| Blogger lodges report against Taiping MP Posted: 21 Dec 2011 08:17 AM PST MACC to investigate allegation against DAP politician (New Straits Times) - A BLOGGER has lodged a report against member of parliament for Taiping, Nga Kor Ming (DAP), over his alleged involvement in fixing a tailoring contract in 2008. Ahmad Sofiyan Yahya, who blogs in www.sekupangdua.blogspot.com, lodged the report at the Perak Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) headquarters in Meru Raya, near here. The 47-year-old from Pengkalan Pegoh said he was disappointed with Nga for failing to address the allegation, which he had raised in his blog, of the politician's alleged involvement in fixing the contract involving tailor-made lounge suits for the city councillors here. "Nga had accused me in a Malaysiakini report of making up stories and challenged me to report the matter to the MACC if I had any evidence. I am taking up his challenge." Ahmad Sofiyan said he had received documents, which allegedly revealed abuse of power in the awarding of a tailoring contract to sew and supply lounge suits, and had posted them on his blogsite. He said the city council here had already decided to award the contract to Goodman Tailor on April 3, 2008, but changed its mind following Nga's intervention. "The documents, which I received, showed the state government (then under Pakatan Rakyat) recommending Ethan and Elton to supply and sew the lounge suits. "According to the tender list, Ethan and Elton was the last name on the list of bidders while Goodman Tailor was at the top of the list." He said a check with the Companies Commission of Malaysia showed that one of the directors of Ethan and Elton was Wong Seow Ching, who is Nga's wife. At the time, Nga, who is also Pantai Remis state assemblyman, was in charge of the local government's portfolio. "I also found out that Ethan and Elton was registered on April 23 after Nga was appointed state executive councillor," said Ahmad Sofiyan, adding that the documents could be viewed on his blogsite. Meanwhile, MACC investigations director Datuk Mustafar Ali said the body would investigate any issues involving corruption even in the absence of an official report. |
| Pakatan to hold final convention in January before polls Posted: 21 Dec 2011 08:02 AM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Pakatan Rakyat (PR) will hold next month what will likely be the pact's last national convention before a widely-expected general election, and use the meet to iron out its polls strategy. The Malaysian Insider understands the convention will take place in Kedah on January 14. Previous conventions were held in the PR-ruled states of Selangor and Penang. The national convention aims to smoothen the working relationship between the three component PR parties — PKR, PAS and DAP — while also focusing on the opposition's game plan against the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN). "We plan to focus on a more detailed and cogent articulation for our vision and offer to all Malaysians. The plan is to refine our various plans for Malaysia, if given the chance to govern at federal level," Lembah Pantai MP Nurul Izzah Anwar told The Malaysian Insider. The PKR vice-president said the focus of the convention would be very specific — PR leaders will prepare its members for polls by briefing them on what issues to tackle when speaking to potential voters. She said the federal opposition would ensure that its future manifestoes or plans would be geared towards attracting young voters. "We have various documents to date, ranging from Buku Jingga, 100 day plan, the opposition leader's Malaysian Economic Agenda, and the notable successes from PR governed states," she explained. Nurul Izzah also said PR would use the convention to drive home the point to their members that they should be well-informed about on-going scandals concerning BN leaders. "Granted, scandals — especially BN's success at making Malaysia a haven for black money laundering — are important highlights to cement reasons for change at the federal level," she said. But she stressed the point that PR will explain to voters is that they have a solution and a team of leaders who will reduce wastage and corruption should the opposition take over Putrajaya.
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| Prove blogger’s claims are false, rep urged Posted: 21 Dec 2011 07:58 AM PST (The Star) - Pantai Remis state assemblyman Nga Kor Ming has been urged to prove his innocence over allegations made by a blogger on a tailoring contract awarded to his wife's company. Perak MCA secretary Datuk Tan Chin Meng said Nga had merely claimed that the documents, which surfaced in the blog, were forged but did not deny the contents. "On one hand, Nga claimed that the documents were forged, but on the other hand, he did not deny the contents of the blog," he said in a press statement issued here yesterday. He suggested that the Perak DAP secretary lodge a police report over the allegations. "If the documents were indeed forged, then Nga should lodge a police report to allow investigations to begin, which will prove his innocence," he said in a statement yesterday. According to the blog, Nga's wife won a tailoring contract to make lounge suits for Ipoh city councillors shortly after Pakatan Rakyat took over the Perak Government. The minutes of the Ipoh City Council meeting revealed that Ethan & Elton, of which she was a director, was the highest bidder, charging RM650 per suit compared to the lowest price offered by Goodman Tailor at RM450 a suit. The blog claimed that a contract for 24 lounge suits was awarded to Goodman Tailor on April 3, 2008, but was later given to Ethan & Elton at the suggestion of the then state government. "It is curious that a company which was set up shortly after Pakatan Rakyat took over the Perak Government can win a contract even though its bid turned out to be the highest," Tan said. He noted that Nga was a member of the state exco in charge of education, local government, housing and public transport at the time, adding that he owed the public an explanation. "Nga should explain the suspicious circumstances of how his wife's company won the tailoring contract," Tan added. Blogger Ahmad Sofiyan Yahya, who writes under the Sekupang Dua blog, lodged a report with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission over Nga's alleged involvement in the tailoring contract. "Nga has accused me of making up evidence in a report on Monday and to live up to his challenge, I am now lodging a report against him," he said here yesterday. Ahmad Sofiyan added that he had received the documents after Pakatan Rakyat took over Perak. Nga said the allegations were "totally unfounded" and reserved the right to file a defamation suit.
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| Police report lodged against protesters Posted: 21 Dec 2011 07:57 AM PST (The Star) - Sekretariat Suara Keamanan Mahasiswa lodged a police report against Solidariti Mahasiswa Malaysia for taking down a flag bearing Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's image in front of the Umno headquarters at the Putra World Trade Centre. Suara Keamanan chairman Muhamad Mukhlis Maghribi said the action has provoked and caused discomfort among Malaysians, especially graduates. "We urge the police to investigate whether SMM is registered under the Registrar of Societies or the Universities and University Colleges Act 1971," he said after lodging a report at the Patani Road police station here last night. On Saturday, some 200 students marched under the SMM banner to push for the abolition of the UUCA and other laws they considered restrictive. The protesters ended their march in front of the Umno headquarters and briefly took down a flag bearing Najib's image and replaced it with an SMM flag.
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| Wong: Hasan’s apostasy comments his opinion Posted: 21 Dec 2011 07:56 AM PST (The Star) - State executive councillor Elizabeth Wong says there will be no action taken against fellow state exco Datuk Dr Hasan Ali over his recent remarks about apostates in Selangor. "His comments were made in a personal capacity and not as an executive councillor," Wong told reporters after the weekly state executive council meeting here yesterday. "The state government has found no report, so far, of Hasan making such statements in his capacity as a state executive councillor. "As a PAS member, yes, he has made those comments. "Therefore, the state government will not be taking any action against him. It is an internal party matter," added Wong, who is state Tourism, Consumer Affairs and Environment committee chairman. Dr Hasan, who is in trouble with PAS leaders over his stand on the alleged shift in the party's struggle, had reportedly said on Tuesday that his research team, Unit Selamatkan Aqidah, had found 41 apostates in Petaling Jaya and was continuing to collect more data on the issue.
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| Hasan: PAS has lost sight of the Malays Posted: 21 Dec 2011 07:54 AM PST (The Star) - Embattled PAS leader Datuk Dr Hasan Ali has continued his tirade against the party, saying that it has lost sight of the Malays since coming under the Pakatan Rakyat banner. He said PAS had veered away from its fundamental role as a defender of Islam. "In the rush to take over Putrajaya, we may end up forgetting our core group of supporters the Malays," he said in an hour-long interview on TV3's Soal Jawab. Dr Hasan said the party's current crop of leaders reflected an imbalance in representation between the ulama and professional groups. He added the ulama-professional ratio in the party's leadership when he first joined the party stood at around 70:30, but it was now the other way round with professionals forming the majority on the party's powerful central working committee. Dr Hasan, who is the Selangor state executive councillor in charge of Islamic affairs, Malay customs, infrastructure and public amenities, said this situation "will influence" the party's direction, as professionals were prone to rationalising options as opposed to the ulama group's tendency to stay true to Islamic principles. Dr Hasan added that a victory for Pakatan and by extension PAS in the next general election would be meaningless under the current arrangement if nothing was done to uphold the place of Islam, the Malays and the royal institution, three issues which he said formed the core of his political struggles. Dr Hasan sidestepped a question on whether or not he would leave PAS as widely speculated, choosing instead to quote a verse from the Quran to say that he left it to Allah to decide. He said he "loves" his party, but hinted at keeping his options open as he was now mired in a "volatile situation". Dr Hasan, and former deputy president Nasharudin Mat Isa, have been under fire from party colleagues over the past several weeks. There is speculation that both will be dropped by the party in the national polls. The pair have also been slammed by top leaders for proposing that PAS revive unity talks with arch-rivals Umno, with some even saying Dr Hasan is free to leave the party and join Umno.
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| Posted: 21 Dec 2011 07:53 AM PST (The Star) - Selangor DAP leaders are shying away from the latest controversy surrounding PAS, saying it is the Islamic party's internal issue. They have refused to be drawn into the in-fighting despite the DAP and PKR being labelled by former Selangor PAS chief Datuk Dr Hasan Ali as the "stumbling blocks" in the PAS Islamic state agenda. "I do not want to be dragged into the dispute between him (Dr Hasan) and the others in PAS," said Selangor DAP chairman Teresa Kok when asked by The Star for her views on the PAS feud. "So, I choose not to comment." On Tuesday, Dr Hasan had said he had wide support in PAS for the party to return to its original struggle of forming an Isla- mic state. The 64-year-old Selangor executive councillor blamed the party's alliance with the DAP and PKR for the shift towards setting up a welfare state. He said the alliance was causing a lot of dissent within PAS. The party's influential Dewan Ulama has thrown its support behind Dr Hasan and former deputy president Nasharudin Mat Isa, who lamented that PAS was no longer seen in its Islamic image.
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| Jamil wants Islamic units meet on sexuality, apostasy Posted: 21 Dec 2011 07:50 AM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom has called for a meeting of the various state Islamic religious departments to determine how to address cases of apostasy, homosexuality, and trans-sexuality among Muslims. "I have asked Jakim to arrange the meeting soon so that we can inform the people about the law and on its enforcement to resolve the issues," the minister in charge of Islamic affairs was quoted in a Bernama Online report today. The minister was referring to the Control and Restriction of the Propagation of Non-Islamic Religion to Muslims Enactment, which is applicable in all states aside from Perak, the Federal Territories, Penang, Sabah and Sarawak. It is unclear how the enactment pertains to homosexuality, which is not an offence per se under any Malaysian law. Jamil is outspoken on issues of sexuality, having previously been reported by Utusan Malaysia as saying that being homosexual was "unconstitutional". He subsequently said he was misquoted and that he meant homosexuality was against the Penal Code. The minister had also criticised Seksualiti Merdeka — the sexuality awareness event that was banned recently despite having run unhindered in previous years — for promoting "a deviation from society's norms". Jamil said Malaysians had a responsibility to unite and stop any promotion of homosexual, lesbian or bisexual practices. In today's report, he also spoke of a need to inform the public that proselytising to Muslims was an offence in states where the aforementioned enactment was applicable.
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| Poor English skills, race quotas in way of Malaysian prosperity, says ST Posted: 20 Dec 2011 07:40 PM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Malaysia's shortage of skilled, English-speaking workers along with ethnic-based quotas that complicate hiring practices will hamper the country's economic momentum despite a rise in foreign investment, Singapore's Straits Times said today in an editorial about the Najib administration. The newspaper, which is considered to be a reflection of the establishment voice in Singapore, said the Najib administration must follow through with its current reform efforts. However, further economic reform "may" only be possible if Datuk Seri Najib Razak strengthens his grip on the ruling Barisan Nasional's (BN) lynchpin, Umno, through a "solid endorsement" from voters in the coming polls, senior writer Bruce Gale said in the story appearing in the newspaper's Op-Ed page today. He said although official numbers show that foreign investment in Malaysia had risen markedly this year, the country continued to lag behind its neighbours. Gale said this was likely the result of the dearth of skilled, English-speaking workers and race-based quotas that "complicate hiring practices", both of which he described as fundamental problems that have led the country into the middle-income trap. "Several measures foreshadowed last year have either stalled or yet to fully materialise. Chief among these is the promise that ethnic quotas would be further relaxed," he added. But, Gale noted that abandoning race-based quotas was a move that would meet strong resistance from within Umno. The writer also commended "reformist" Najib's market-oriented changes as enshrined in the New Economic Model (NEM), pointing to a World Bank report in October on the ease of doing business that showed Malaysia moving up five notches in the bank's global ranking. Gale cited another report from consulting firm AT Kearny earlier this month, which placed Malaysia among the world's top 10 most attractive destinations for foreign direct investment. This year's figures, he said, also showed that total investment approvals in Malaysia until October stood at RM26.4 billion — fast approaching the previous peak in 2007 of RM29.5 billion.
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| PKR reveals new ‘proof’ in World Bank row Posted: 20 Dec 2011 07:27 PM PST PKR says that a World Bank loan was sought through the National Economic Action Council, of which Mahathir was the chairman. (Free Malaysia Today) - PKR today continued with its attack on Dr Mahathir Mohamad by showing alleged new evidence to prove its claim that the former premier had asked for loan from the World Bank during the 1999 financial crisis. PKR strategic director Rafizi Ramli said in a statement today that a World Bank report coded "PID6999″ showed Mahathir asking for loans to support his administration's National Economic Recovery Plan (NERP). The loans were sought through the National Economic Action Council (NEAC) under the tenure of Mahathir's strongman Daim Zainuddin. Mahathir was the chairman of NEAC. Daim was the NEAC's secretary and was also the director of the Economic Planning Unit that answered to the former prime minister himself. The World Bank report read: "In view of these circumstances in July 1998, the government announced a National Economic Recovery Plan to bring the economy back on a positive growth path. "One of the six strategic objectives of the National Economic Recovery Plan is to continue the country's equity and socio-economic agenda which had been instrumental during the past two decades, in maintaining social stability in the country. "In line with this objective, the government has proposed a plan of action to mitigate the adverse social impacts of the crisis which threaten to reverse the gains made in the past. The government has approached the (World) Bank for help in strengthening this plan and implementing it through a Social Protection Project" 'Asked for and not offered' The report stated that Malaysia had first sought the loan on July 26, 1998. It further stated that the World Bank assessment team had departed for Malaysia on Nov 30. The negotiation began Feb 1, 1999. Rafizi said the report clearly stated that the aid was "asked for and not offered". In his blog posting yesterday, Mahathir maintained that he had never written any letter requesting for loan from the World Bank.
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| Islamic state not in PAS constitution Posted: 20 Dec 2011 04:29 PM PST The founder of the PAS Supporters Club points out there is a clause for the Islamist party to form a welfare state. (Free Malaysia Today) - The concept of an Islamic state is not enshrined in the PAS constitution, says a PAS official. Therefore, the party should stop championing the concept unless it is willing to amend its founding political principles to accommodate the governance policy, modelled after theocracy nations such as Iran. PAS Supporters Club founder Hu Phang Chaw urged the supposedly warring factions in the Islamist party to revert to the party constitution to settle their present dispute. When PAS was formed in 1951, there was no element of an Islamist state inserted in the 11 clauses of its constitution. Instead, there is a clause for PAS to form a welfare society and to uphold the Federal Constitution, Hu said in an interview. Both the PAS and federal constitutions were written based on references and feedback from the United Nations, he added. PAS needs to go back to its roots and original struggle to revive its political objectives, or risks the possibility of fracturing into splinter parties again, such as in the early 1980s, Hu said. He added that the non-Muslim component in the party is watching in disbelief that the party leaders are tearing apart all the political goodwill it has earned since 2004 despite its Islamist leaning. Ideological divide Segments of society are rebelling against the Barisan Nasional (BN) now because, although the coalition had previously championed the people's cause and brought about stability, it seemed to have lost its way now – bogged down with alleged corrupt practices, nepotism and cronism, Hu said. The outcome is the economy has become weak despite whatever growth projections various quarters may be espousing, Hu said, adding that many now subscribe to the belief that the rich are getting richer while the poor are getting poorer. Hu was commenting on the dispute and concerns raised over remarks by former Selangor PAS commissioner Hasan Ali, former deputy president Nasharudin Mat Isa together with a host of other party personalities such as PAS Youth head Nasharuddin Hassan Tantawi and his deputy Nik Abdul Nik Abdul Aziz. To illustrate the ideological divide in PAS, pundits are describing the present disagreement as between the progressive faction, who are influenced by visionary Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and the old school of ulamas, who control PAS' decision-making bodies such as the syura council and the central committee. Hu advises all PAS leaders to stop the dispute and refer to the party constitution to end their debate about welfare and Islamic state. "Prepare for the 13th general election and show unity if one still loves the party instead of squabbling," Hu said.
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| ‘I’m not involved’: Shahrizat says it again Posted: 20 Dec 2011 04:20 PM PST Quizzed on the latest revelation by PKR concerning a luxury condo in Singapore, the minister says that she is merely the wife of the NFC chairman. (Free Malaysia Today) - Shahrizat Abdul Jalil today dodged questions on the latest RM10 million Singapore condominium revelation by PKR and reiterated her non-involvement in the National Feedlot Centre (NFC) scandal. Bombarded with questions from reporters at a charity event here, the women, family and community development minister again said she has no ties with the national cattle farming project apart from being "the wife" of its chairman. "I've said it before… legally and professionally, I am not involved in the NFC. I am just the wife of the NFC chairman. Don't all women and families have husband," she said. In the latest assault against the Umno Wanita chief, PKR leaders claimed yesterday Shahrizat had used taxpayers' money meant to finance the NFC to purchase a luxury condominium in Singapore. The unit was purchased under her family's name. Although the paper trail to prove that the purchase was made using NFC cash was not available, PKR leaders said the presence of several of Shahrizat's private businesses in the island state allegedly connected to NFC's funds was strong enough to suggest a link. MORE TO FOLLOW
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| RM34 million for ‘scrap metal’ helicopters Posted: 20 Dec 2011 02:51 PM PST (Free Malaysia Today) Opposition DAP wants to know why Sabah Air leased its helicopters for RM1 if it was in the red. TAWAU: Sabah's two new Eurocopters, totaling RM34 million, are stiring a lot of dust in the state without even spinning their rotors. Sabah DAP chairman Jimmy Wong has latched on the Auditor General's latest report that targets Sabah Air Aviation Sdn Bhd's purchase of the Eurocopter AS 355 NP for RM13 million and Eurocopter EC 145 for RM21 million. Wong said the whole deal is a scandal and the helicopters are "scrap metal". State Assistant Minister for Infrastructure Development, Pang Yuk Ming while defending the purchase of the aircraft, has however been struggling to explain why they have not been used. In the latest twist, Wong accused Sabah Air Aviation chairman Yusof Kassim, and its chief executive officer Manu Sasidharan of rushing to Kuala Lumpur to get the "operations specification certificate" for the two helicopters only after questions were raised about the aircrafts' air-worthiness. Wong claimed both these officials had met with civil aviation authorities in Putrajaya on Dec 6. Wong said that this proves that the two new helicopters are faulty. He said that without the documents, Sabah Air Aviation cannot use the aircraft for any part of their business. "I was informed that the AS 355 NP does not have this certification and that its airworthy certification was not renewed since it expired about a month ago. "The AS 355 NP is therefore not allowed to fly any passenger with an expired airworthy certificate. The chopper may only fly under special conditions such as for flight testing to qualify for the airworthy certificate renewal. "If this is true, how dare Sabah Air Aviation invite me on Dec 16 to fly in the AS355NP?" Wong asked. Aircraft for CM "Is it true that "9M" signifies aircraft registered in Malaysia and the remaining three alphabets is a special registration mark. I am told that Sabah Air specially selected 9M-CMD to signify the Chief Minister Department," said Wong. He said Sabah Air should provide the original copy of the "operation specification certificate" with the EC 145 registration '9M-CMD' and AS355 NP registration '9M-MOH'. Read more at: http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/2011/12/21/rm34-million-for-scrap-metal-helicopters/
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| Sabah has right to deny visitors entry Posted: 20 Dec 2011 11:16 AM PST But lawyers in Sabah want the state government to explain why it denied fellow lawyer Haris Ibrahim entry into Sabah (Free Malaysia Today) - The Sabah Law Association (SLA) said the Musa Aman administration is 'not obliged' to give a reason for denying non-Sabahans entry into the state. Whilst saying it is the 'state's right', SLA cautioned that the 'powers' were potentially draconian and wide-reaching and must be judiciously and fairly exercised. The association was commenting on the state government's decision to bar fellow lawyer Haris Ibrahim, the president of the Malaysian Civil Liberties Movement (MCLM), from entering Sabah on Dec 6. "Although the state is not obliged to provide reasons for or to justify its decision, we would urge the state government to issue its own statement as to its reasons for doing so in order to avoid the impression that the power was exercised capriciously or to comply with the wishes of the powers-that-be outside of the state. "Compliance with outside forces surely cannot protect, enhance or promote our constitutional rights," it said in a statement yesterday. The association added that it was speaking out as the decision to bar Harris gave rise to concerns as to the legality of the action of the state government. "Although the legality of the decision of the state government is beyond reproach for reasons as follows such decisions ought to be made carefully and ought not to be made frivolously or for reasons which do not further or protect the interest of the state. "The decision of the state government to bar Harris Ibrahim entry to the state was under Section 65(1) of the Immigration Act 1959/1963," it said in a statement. "The Sabah Law Association is of the view that the exercise by the state authority of its rights under the Immigration Act is not just an executive act under an ordinary legislation but is an act pursuant to the constitutional rights accorded to the East Malaysian States under Part VII of the Immigration Act.
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| Under attack, PAS maintains Islamic agenda party priority Posted: 20 Dec 2011 11:14 AM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - PAS leaders have denied claims by two renegades that the party has abandoned its Islamic agenda, with its deputy president Mohamad Sabu pointing out that an Ulama panel oversees its policies. National leaders from the Islamic party denied the accusations made by Datuk Dr Hasan Ali, a senior Selangor government member, and Nasharudin Mat Isa, the former party secretary-general, that PAS was deviating from its Islamic struggle, and have, in turn, alleged the two leaders were frustrated over their inability to secure top posts within the party. Hasan, the ex-Selangor PAS commissioner, has also demanded his party's top leadership settle the thorny question of establishing Malaysia as an Islamic state with its Pakatan Rakyat partners now rather than later. The Gombak Setia assemblyman charged that the party had deviated from its original fight, pointing to the shift to push the concept of a "Negara Berkebajikan" at the party's annual general meeting earlier this year. Similarly, Nasharudin had, during the weekend, told Umno-owned Berita Minggu that the PAS leadership should not be too preoccupied with the party's political goals while abandoning its Islamic ones. He said that PAS was no longer seen as "consistent" with its Islamic image and that it could not afford to continually chop and change "terminologies" to suit its political direction. "Any decision within the party is ultimately decided by the Syura Council, which is led by the Ulama. How can PAS be deviating from Islamic principles when the Syura Council decides all party matters?" Mohamad Sabu (picture) told The Malaysian Insider yesterday. "If he (Hasan) has any objections, he should make his views known to the central working committee," he added. PAS central working committee member Khalid Samad echoed Mohamad's views, saying that the concept of "Negara Berkebajikan" does not contradict the Islamic state agenda.
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| Taib hits the roof at ‘daring’ reporter Posted: 20 Dec 2011 11:08 AM PST It appears the chief minister is not entirely unaffected by the allegations of corruption against him. (Free Malaysia Today) - Is Chief Minister Taib Mahmud, whose US$1.46 billion wealth made global media headlines, beginning to feel the heat at home? Already stacked against him are a series of local and international reports of alleged corruption and abuse of power. Topping the list is the most recent and globally published report submitted by a group of international and Malaysian non-governmental organisations on the alleged corruption committed by him. The allegations, it appears, are affecting him after all if his violent reaction to a reporter's question last weekend was any indication. Taib was officiating at a function at the Kuching Waterfront last Saturday when a reporter asked for his comment regarding the report submitted by the group of international NGOs. Turning on the reporter, an angry Taib demanded to know the identity of the reporter who had "dared" to ask him that question. "Who is the reporter (who dared to ask)?" Taib was overheard asking while his bodyguards identified the reporter and allegedly pushed the newsman. Luckily for him the other journalists quickly rushed to help him. Reporters barred When they saw Taib was so angry, the reporters left and boycotted the function. "It is obvious that the chief minister is haunted by allegations of alleged corruption against him," said a senior reporter. Last Thursday, Taib refused to see pressmen after his weekly Cabinet meeting. For the past 30 years, it had been a traditional practice for Taib or other Cabinet ministers to meet and brief the press of government projects or programmes. But this time, Taib not only refused to see the reporters but also barred them from entering the Wisma Baba Malaysia building that houses the ministerial complex. New report handed to MACC Meanwhile, Sarawak PKR deputy chairman Zulrusdi Bin Haji Mohamad Hol yesterday handed over a report containing allegations of corruption allegedly committed by Taib to the state director of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) at Wisma Iskander. The report was received by a lady officer of the commission.
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| MAS probes graft claims in cargo unit, boss put on leave Posted: 20 Dec 2011 09:44 AM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Loss-making Malaysia Airlines (MAS) is investigating allegations of kickbacks in its cargo unit which has led to MAS Airlines Cargo (MASkargo) managing director Shahari Sulaiman to go on leave since early last month, sources said. The Malaysian Insider understands that an internal investigation report has been sent to the MAS board although the unprofitable flag carrier has not lodged a police report over the issue. "It is related to kickbacks in MASkargo and the board already has a report on the matter," a source told The Malaysian Insider. The source added new managing director Ahmad Jauhari Yahya and the top management have been going through the books for all divisions in the national carrier that has posted losses of some RM1.2 billion in the three quarters of the current financial year. MAS is not expected to make profits until 2013 despite a new business recovery plan. "They are cleaning up the company. This is just the start," he added. However, it is not clear why MAS has not lodged a police report over the alleged kickbacks in MASkargo, which made a record pre-tax profit of RM142 million in 2010. The Business Times had reported that Shahari has been away since early November 2011 after fresh allegations about problems in the cargo unit. The new MAS board had begun looking into all aspects of the airline operations after a share swap between the national carrier and Asia's biggest budget carrier, AirAsia in early August. It is understood that investigations started and a domestic inquiry was done but fresh allegations revived the probe. MAS had told Business Times early this month that "Encik Shahari Sulaiman, managing director of Malaysia Airlines subsidiary MASkargo, is currently on leave. "In his absence Encik Mohd Yunus Idris, senior vice president Global Sales & Government Affairs MASkargo, is overseeing thedaily operations of the subsidiary," it said in response to queries on the matter.
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| Fatwa panel to discuss the use of indelible ink Posted: 20 Dec 2011 09:41 AM PST A new test and decree necessary (New Straits Times) - THE National Fatwa Council will hold a special muzakarah (meeting) to decide on the usage of the new indelible ink in the next general election. Its secretary Datuk Othman Mustapha said they have yet to receive an official application from the Election Commission for their view on whether the ink's use was allowed in Islam. He said once the meeting was concluded and a decision was reached, they would then issue a fatwa (decree) on the matter. "We are waiting for the application from the EC. We are ready to hold the meeting as soon as we receive the test result. "This matter will be given priority as it is important to the country's electoral process," said Othman, adding that he would discuss the matter with council chairman Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Dr Abdul Shukor Husin. Othman was responding to a statement by EC chair-man Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof on Monday that a sam-ple of the new ink had been sent to the Chemistry Department for test-ing. Aziz also said that the results would then be submitted to the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim). Othman, who is also Jakim's director-general, said the special meeting was necessary as the new ink was slightly different from the one which they had declared as 'halal' in 2007. "Previously, we issued a fatwa on the use of indelible ink for the 2008 general election, that its use was not against Is-lamic rules and did not interfere with a Muslim's 'ibadah'. "However, the Election Commission is said to be using a slightly different type for the next general election, thus the need for a new test and fatwa to be issued." Othman said the discussion would focus on the ink's ingredients -- whether it contained non-halal substances and whether it would hinder water from contacting the skin. "These two are the major issues that will be discussed to determine if the ink's use will be according to Islamic rules, as Muslims can't use products which contain non-halal substances, and that it must also not interfere with ablution requirements," he added. Meanwhile, the Chemistry Department's deputy director-general (policy) Ismail Talib said they were analysing the indelible ink. "Our experts are conducting analysis on the ink and the results will be submitted to the relevant authorities soon." However, he declined to divulge the expected date for the tests to be completed. |
| Posted: 20 Dec 2011 09:37 AM PST Malaysians can thank ex-PM by making Vision 2020 a reality (New Straits Times) - IT was an unfounded accusation by some quarters to say that former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had sought aid from the World Bank during the 1997 financial crisis, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak. Najib said he knew Dr Mahathir well and the latter would never have handed over Malaysia to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). "I can support Dr Mahathir on this. Mind you, it's a sin to tell lies," he said at Dr Mahathir's 86th birthday celebration last night. Najib was referring to the opposition's claims that Dr Mahathir had sought a loan from the World Bank and there were documents to prove it. He said Dr Mahathir had "saved the nation" during his tenure. "He (Dr Mahathir) has done a lot for this country. If I am to list everything he has done, it will take me right through the night until morning. "To put it in a nutshell, three significant achievements during his premiership have made Malaysia what it is today. "One, Vision 2020; two, putting Malaysia on the right track to becoming a developed nation; and three, instilling self-belief in us and giving us the confidence to believe we can do anything (Malaysia Boleh) if we put our minds to it." Najib said the best gift Malaysians could give to Dr Mahathir, in return for his contributions, would be to make Vision 2020 a reality. "That is why we have implemented many programmes, including the ETP (Economic Transformation Programme), to ensure we achieve Vision 2020." Still, Najib said the nation had to cross "the bridge (general election)" soon. "We hope to cross this successfully." Dr Mahathir said he introduced the slogan "leading by example" and stood by it when he chose to have his by-pass surgery in Malaysia instead of seeking medical treatment abroad. "I am blessed to have led this nation for 22 years. I have been tasked to lead and once we are entrusted to do this, we have to do it well. Politicians should accept criticisms to be effective leaders. "With the extra time I have, I hope I can continue contributing to the nation's development." Present were Najib's wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor and Dr Mahathir's wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali. Najib later launched the Mahathir Distinguished Internship Programme, which is for postgraduates, young academicians or professionals below 35 years to learn about Dr Mahathir. International applicants are welcomed. Those interested can call the secretariat of the Malaysian Professors Council at 03-88706308, 88706309 or 887063311. Successful applicants are expected to work full time at the Perdana Leadership Foundation during their internship. They will receive a a salary, and housing and transportation allowances. |
| BN man pockets RM1m in Salcra dividends Posted: 20 Dec 2011 09:24 AM PST While hundreds of Salcra landowners have seen pittance in dividends, a local politician has laughed all the way to the bank. (Free Malaysia Today) - A prominent Barisan Nasional (BN) politician in Bau, some 150km from here, has allegedly received at least RM1 million in dividends from Sarawak Land Custody and Rehabilitation Authority (Salcra). Disclosing this today, a PKR Mas Gading division leader, Boniface Willy Tumek, said: "He is the single biggest recipient of dividends from Salcra's Bratak and Undan estates in Bau. "It means that the BN politician has a big acreage of land in these two estates to be able to receive RM1 million. "It means he has been buying up land at low cost from poor people when they are at their weakest point." Tumek said a seldom mentioned tragic fact about Salcra's plantation is that substantial land parcels in these estates have passed hands, from the original landowners (who were supposed to benefit from these schemes) to financially comfortable people. He pointed out that one hectare of oil palm would earn RM2,466 per year but it was a meaningless amount. Tumek said that nobody talked about this aspect in Salcra oil palm estates. Salcra was conceived with the aim of helping to develop the native customary rights (NCR)land of the natives to help eradicate poverty among the rural people. Selling to support children But this has not been the case. "The rich and the people of means are taking advantage of the poor people whose lands in the estates are bought at low prices when the people are most vulnerable. "This usually happens in the beginning of the year when students are about to go to university, especially during those times when Unimas (Universiti Malaysia Sarawak) was not in existence yet. "When you talk about going to universities, they are all in Peninsular Malaysia; so you talk about airfares and all kinds of expenses and the kampung people do not have this type of money. "I have personal experience. I was approached by someone from Kampung Stungkor in 1988. "He had a piece of land in the Salcra estates which he wanted to sell to me because he needed the money to send his daughter to a university. "I thought long and hard about it. In the end, I decided not to take it, because I know it was morally wrong for me to take advantage of his predicament or misfortune at the time when they were most vulnerable. "I told him that I would like very much to help him but I could not do it and advised him that if he was really in need of the money then he should go somewhere else, which, of course, he did. "This is what is happening. This has happened and will continue to happen to the poor who are being taken advantage of," he said.
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| PAS rubbishes claim of DAP eyeing Selangor MB post Posted: 20 Dec 2011 09:08 AM PST (Harakah Daily) - PAS and DAP have hit out at their opponents for claiming that DAP was eyeing the Menteri Besar's post in Selangor should Pakatan Rakyat be returned to power in the state in the coming polls. At a press conference, Selangor PAS commissioner Dr Abdul Rani Osman, his deputy Khalid Samad and state DAP chairman Teresa Kok dismissed the allegation as another of UMNO's scare tactics among the Malay electorate. "The question of Selangor Menteri Besar's post does not arise as we are all satisfied with Khalid Ibrahim's performance and there is no plan to replace him.
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| Mahathir says it again: "Wasn't me" Posted: 20 Dec 2011 09:06 AM PST (Harakah Daily) - Following PKR's claim that the post-Anwar Ibrahim administration of Dr Mahathir Mohamad had applied for World Bank loans, the former prime minister has repeated his denial by giving details of the loans approved by the global financial body. "I had just criticised the World Bank, then I ask money from them for what? I would be stupid," was his immediate reaction to the claim by Anwar during a speech that Mahathir had not been walking the talk in his criticism of World Bank and International Monetary Fund, two bodies he frequently associated with his one-time heir apparent during the 1997-99 economic crisis.
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| Dr M says took, but never sought, World Bank loans Posted: 20 Dec 2011 07:54 AM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said today that Malaysia has taken World Bank loans since 1958, but the former prime minister said he had never personally written a letter or verbally requested for such funds. Writing on his blog today, Dr Mahathir also accused Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim — whom he had appointed finance minister and deputy prime minister — of implementing policies of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to tighten conditions for bank loans and cutting government expenditure during the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis. Dr Mahathir conceded, however, that Anwar had not opposed his decision to impose capital controls that helped Malaysia stem capital flight. Instead, he said the Bank Negara governor and deputy governor at the time — whom he called Anwar appointees — refused to implement capital controls and resigned. Dr Mahathir has been engaging in a verbal war over the past week with Anwar and PKR leaders over their respective roles and actions during the Asian Financial Crisis. The former premier issued a challenge last week to Opposition Leader Anwar over allegations of a purported letter that the former had written to the World Bank to appeal for funds during the financial crisis. PKR has since produced World Bank records showing that Dr Mahathir's administration had accepted financial aid numerous times from May 18, 1982 to Malaysia's post-financial crisis period of March 30, 1999. This includes three loans for projects inked six months after Anwar was sacked as deputy prime minister in September 1998. Dr Mahathir said today any claim that he wrote to the World Bank was baseless. He added that Malaysia had borrowed from the World Bank since 1958. The last negotiation for loans, he said, was in 1997, but the funds were not disbursed until 1999.
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| Hasan Ali says gathering proof of Christian proselytism Posted: 20 Dec 2011 07:51 AM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Bent on proving Christians were converting Malay Muslims in Selangor, Datuk Hasan Ali said today his research unit has found 41 apostates in Petaling Jaya and will continue to collect more "profound" data to back his case. The state executive councillor in charge of Islamic affairs told reporters the 41 apostates were mostly women aged between 30 and 60-years old who were from low-income households. He postulated that the figure was likely only the tip of the iceberg, with the actual number being much bigger. "It could be hundreds, maybe even thousands," he said. "No one has gathered information and made the statistics," he added, saying he had set up two-and-half months ago a research unit he called "USA", short for "Unit Selamatkan Akidah (Faith Rescue Unit)", to collect the data and persuade the apostates to return to Islam. "We are helping them, hoping they will come back to Islam," he said. The ex-PAS state commissioner appeared taken aback when challenged to prove his theory by a foreign news reporter who pointed out that the so-called apostates could have voluntarily embraced Christianity and were not induced to do so as alleged. "Are you a Malaysian?" he asked. When she answered no, he explained that there were state laws against the propagation of religions other than Islam to Muslims. When asked if he had pushed for the prosecution of Christian groups or individuals allegedly involved in proselytising their religion to Muslims, Hasan told reporters that he was researching for more "profound evidence". This latest disclosure, after a controversial August 3 raid by Selangor Islamic authorities (Jais) on the Damansara Utama Methodist Church (DUMC) in Petaling Jaya, risks further strain to already tense Christian-Muslim ties.
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| Dr M: ‘I was the most feared PM’ Posted: 20 Dec 2011 07:47 AM PST (The Malaysian Insider) - Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad today admitted he was considered Malaysia's most-feared prime minister, and attributed this to his character and personality. "What is my legacy? I was the most feared prime minister," Dr Mahathir said during a special gala dinner celebrating his 86th birthday here. "When Tun Hussein Onn appointed me as deputy prime minister, some were saying how could this ultra-Malay be chosen as deputy prime minister?" he said. The former prime minister later added that the most enduring mark of his tenure as PM was the absence of communal violence. "The legacy I am most appreciate when I was PM was that there was no racial riots... even under a Malay extremist like me," he said candidly. Dr Mahathir said he had learned to take criticism in his stride, and advised other politicians to do the same. "Politicians have to accept the fact that they can be criticised. They have to stomach it; I do. Sometimes I even criticise others," he said to bouts of laughter from the audience.
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| Police to call witnesses in Penang CM's officer assault Posted: 20 Dec 2011 07:30 AM PST (Bernama) -- Police will call several eye witnesses, including M. Satees, who is the former special aide to Deputy Chief Minister II P.Ramasamy, to investigate the case where a man was alleged to have caused hurt to a female officer at the Chief Minister's Office. Timur Laut police chief ACP Gan Kong Meng said the 24-year-old female officer had lodged a police report alleging that she had sustained injuries after being slapped in the face by the man. The incident, which took place in Jalan Tun Syed Sheikh Barakbah at the Esplanade here yesterday, was believed to have been caused by misunderstanding. Gan said the case was being investigated under Section 323 of the Penal Code and the police had ruled out political motives. Satees was reported to have resigned from the post after the incident.
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| Facebook Hits 70% Penetration Rate in Malaysia Posted: 20 Dec 2011 07:17 AM PST
(Forbes) - There were a total of 9.5 million Facebook users in Malaysia on January 01, 2011. And last week, the total has surpassed the 12 million mark. As of today, the estimated total of Facebook users in Malaysia stands at 12,060,200. Currently, the total Internet users in Malaysia is 17.5 million. That means the Facebook penetration in Malaysia is now just a whisker shy of 70%. From January 2011 to December 2011, the Facebook user base has been growing at an average rate of 26%. The growth rate is markedly reduced compared to the last year's rate of 87% (March 2010 – December 2010). The growth rate is expected to decline further in 2012, with the increasing level of Facebook penetration in this country, continuing privacy concerns, onset of Facebook lethargy, and onslaught of emerging new online time sucks.
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| Senate stamps approval on assembly bill Posted: 20 Dec 2011 06:48 AM PST Opposition senators fail to stop the passing of the law in a voting by division system. (Free Malaysia Today) - Opposition senators failed to stop the Peaceful Assembly Bill 2011 today after a majority of Dewan Negara members voted in its favour in a voting by division system. The voting system, which was requested by the opposition, saw 30 members supporting it while eight others dissented. Earlier, when tabling the bill, Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Liew Vui Keong said the bill allows citizens the rights to gather peacefully and without weapons, with certain conditions deemed necessary to maintain public safety and order. "The bill is the way forward towards strengthening the rule of law and upholding fundamental rights in Malaysia, in particular, the rights to gather peacefully and without weapons," he said. The bill was approved by the Dewan Rakyat on Nov 29 with six amendments. One of the amendments, involving Clause 9(1), allows organisers of assemblies to notify the police only 10 days before the event and not 30 days as in the original bill. Clause 12(1) was amended to shorten from 48 hours to 24 hours the period for the police to respond to the organisers' notification of an assembly. Clause 12(2) was also amended to shorten from five days to 24 hours the period for the vested party to make an objection to the police over the notice of assembly. The period for the police to respond to the objection was also shortened, from 12 days to five days, as per an amendment to Clause 14.
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Mahathir claimed that it was Anwar, the then Finance minister, who signed the US$300 million loan with World Bank for the three programmes recently named by PKR's strategic director Rafizi Ramli. 
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