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How con artists work Posted: 07 Nov 2011 06:14 PM PST And this is why the opposition is not yet ready to form the federal government. They are still too immature and do not respect freedom of choice and freedom of expression. The Seksualiti Merdeka issue is a good enough yardstick to demonstrate how intolerant the opposition is towards freedom of choice and freedom of expression. Can we trust the opposition as the next government? NO HOLDS BARRED Raja Petra Kamarudin The Mufti of Perak, Tan Sri Harussani Zakaria, has spoken out on the evil and sin of homosexuality. Harussani's statement is supported by the Catholic Archdiocesan Pastoral Institute director, Reverend Dr Clarence Devadass. So who says Islam and Catholicism cannot come to an agreement? It is good that the Muslims and Catholics are united in their opposition to evil and sin. However, to the Muslims and Christians, there is only one type of evil and sin: sex. Everything else is not an evil or sin. This gives an impression that Islam and Catholicism are only concerned about sex. In fact, they appear paranoid about sex, as if sex is everything and nothing else matters other than sex. Maybe that is why the history of Islam and Catholicism is a history of discrimination, persecution, murder, ethnic cleansing, injustice, corruption, and whatnot. Whenever the Catholics are in power they oppress the minority and whenever the Muslims are in power they do the same. And that is why most countries choose secularism over a theocracy. They have seen how bad things can be in the hands of the clerics.  This obsession with sex is mind-boggling. And why oppose only this one so-called evil or sin: sex? What about all the other evils? Why do these Mufti and church leaders maintain a deafening silence on issues of corruption, abuse of power, wastage of public funds, election fraud, discrimination, selective prosecution, etc? There is only one enemy: sex. There is only one evil: sex. There is only one sin: sex. What you do in the privacy of your bedroom is everyone's concern. They want to know and they want to control what you do. What the politicians are doing to the country is not important. Hey, get this through your thick heads: 28 million Malaysians are being sodomised by the government every single day of their lives. This, you are not concerned about. What people do in the privacy of their bedrooms is the only thing you worry about. As I said, never trust so-called religious people and politicians. They are all con artists. Take the story below by Malaysia Chronicle. Everyone is up in arms about the lies from TV3. TV3 twisted the story and made it look like Seksualiti Merdeka is a free sex party. We can see people foaming at the mouth because of this distortion. Now, I remember when TV3 was said to be telling the truth. TV3 never lies. This was earlier this year when TV3 ran my interview. Utusan Malaysia reported that TV3 said I had retracted my allegation against Rosmah Mansor. Actually I did not. And it was Utusan Malaysia that said I did. Most people who had not even seen my TV3 interview and based the story on what Utusan Malaysia said started going round the country telling everyone that I had been bought over by Umno. They had not even seen the TV3 interview. But because Utusan Malaysia reported that this was what TV3 said, that was good enough for them. Even the most corrupted Health Minister in Malaysian history, Chua Jui Meng, told everyone I had been bought. Those in the medical industry have nothing but horror stories to tell about Chua Jui Meng during the time he was the Minister. Imagine him passing judgment on me. It's like asking Paris Hilton to talk about the evil of sex before marriage. Malaysia Chronicle should instead talk about the problems between the Chinese in DAP and the Chinese in PKR. They should tell the readers about the serious conflict in Johor, Chua Jui Meng's state, where PKR has threatened to sabotage DAP with three-corner fights if DAP does not give PKR the seats they want. DAP is facing a hard time in trying to pacify PKR. Chua Jui Meng needs to prove himself so he wants to make sure that PKR wins as many seats as possible in Johor. But they can't do this unless they grab all the winnable seats. And that would mean DAP would have to be given the non-winnable seats. Yes, these types of stories Malaysia Chronicle does not want to run. Instead, the stories they run is about TV3 being a liar -- unless it is a TV3 story about Raja Petra Kamarudin. Only then is TV3 not lying. Other times, TV3 is a great liar. Apalah! The opposition-controlled media is no better than the government-controlled media. And when Malaysia Today reports both sides of the story and allows opposing views they get angry. They want Malaysia Today to run only pro-opposition news and articles. And this is why the opposition is not yet ready to form the federal government. They are still too immature and do not respect freedom of choice and freedom of expression. The Seksualiti Merdeka issue is a good enough yardstick to demonstrate how intolerant the opposition is towards freedom of choice and freedom of expression. Can we trust the opposition as the next government? ************************************ Mufti: Don't ignore issues of morality (New Straits Times) - Perak mufti Tan Sri Harussani Zakaria said homosexuality is against not only Islam, but also other religions such as Christianity and Buddhism. "Human rights are human rights, but the morality issues cannot be ignored," he said. "Allah has given humans sexual desire to procreate and we are bound by rules and regulations, just like we are given hands and legs to do good both to ourselves and mankind," he told the New Straits Times yesterday. Harussani said he believed that natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes now happening around the world "are trials by God". He was commenting on the annual sexuality rights festival, Seksualiti Merdeka. The festival, which celebrates the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, has been held since 2008. This year's event, themed "Queer Without Fear", was scheduled to be held from Nov 9 to 13. However, it was cancelled after police issued an outright ban on Thursday. Many groups, individuals and religious organisations had voiced their opposition to the event, with two police reports lodged in the city against the organisers. The public had also been advised not to attend any activity or event relating to the event to avoid arrest. Other religious leaders stand united in their stance that homosexual acts are violations against divine and natural law. Catholic Archdiocesan Pastoral Institute director Reverend Dr Clarence Devadass said the Catholic Church teaches that such sexual acts are wrong. Reverend Philip Tan, provincial head of the Congregation of the Disciples of the Lord, Malaysia, echoed similar views. "Of course, our Catholic teaching does not condone such homosexual practices, but we still extend our pastoral care to this community. "We accept them and there are priests and nuns who counsel them on an individual basis when they choose to confide." ************************************ Spinning with TV Tiga: A Najib Razak and team production  (Malaysia Chronicle) - While I do not usually watch TV3, and cannot remember the last time I switched to it, I did make a point to watch on Monday night. I was curious how they would handle, or spin rather, Marina Mahathir's support of Ambiga Sreenevasan and her telling off of a TV3 reporter. Marina had been completely blocked out of the report. Based on TV3's version, she was never there. Ambiga however was prominently featured being interviewed by police who visited the Tenaganita office in Jalan Gasing. TV3 then showed Ambiga, visibly angry, daring TV3 to broadcast her comments and threatening to sue them for portraying Seksualiti Merdeka as a free sex party. TV3 broadcast her comments. Now, before you start congratulating TV3 for broadcasting both sides of the story, note that Ambiga was talking in English. The viewers who watch TV3's 8pm news broadcast are predominantly Malay. What they would have seen is Ambiga looking angry, waving her arms about and speaking in a language they can't really understand. Clever TV3, the nation's only tongue-in-cheek propagandist. Something needs to be done about the police And what on earth were the police doing there? Perhaps they have been misled by Khalid Abu Bakar, the Deputy IGP, formerly Selangor CPO and superior officer to Kugan's tormentors. Also under whose careless watch the shooting death of Aminulrasyid and the horrific Banting murders occurred. Khalid had appeared on NTV7 and made the remarkable declaration that homosexuality was against Malaysian law. It is, of course, an incorrect statement. There is no such law. And so it goes on, this shameful persecution of minority communities, in this case the LGBT community. They are forced to live in the shadows, in fear, even though they are Malaysian citizens with constitutionally guaranteed protections. One wonders how long Prime Minister Najib Razak and his government can keep this up. Atheists conference, anyone?

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Malaysia Today - Your Source of Independent News

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• WIKILEAKS: MALAYSIAN OPPOSITION NOT SO CONCERNED ABOUT ECONOMIC POLICY
• WIKILEAKS: RELIGIOUS, RACIAL POLITICS MARK RUN-UP TO CRITICAL BY-ELECTION
• WIKILEAKS: HOME MINISTER ASSEMBLES DIPLOMATS, DEFENDS HANDLING OF ANWAR CASE
• WIKILEAKS: PAS LEADER FAVORS TAKING POWER THROUGH NEXT ELECTION; SNAP POLLS POSSIBLE
• WIKILEAKS: PM ADVISOR LIM ON REFORMS AND ABDULLAH'S EVENTUAL DEPARTURE
• WIKILEAKS: AMBASSADOR AND ATTORNEY GENERAL DISCUSS ISA, TERRORISM AND EXPORT CONTROLS
• WIKILEAKS: IMMIGRATION DETAINEES RIOT AFTER RELA BEATS PRISONERS
• WIKILEAKS: UMNO SETS PARTY ELECTION FOR DECEMBER, ABDULLAH LOSES TERENGGANU FIGHT
• WIKILEAKS: MALAYSIA'S NEW CABINET - STATUS QUO WITH ONLY HINTS OF REFORM
• WIKILEAKS: POST-ELECTION VIEWS FROM EAST MALAYSIA

WIKILEAKS: MALAYSIAN OPPOSITION NOT SO CONCERNED ABOUT ECONOMIC POLICY Posted: 07 Nov 2011 07:08 PM PST The lack of economic expertise among the allied opposition parties underlines some of the difficulties they would have if they were to take over the federal government. The opposition-controlled state governments are struggling just to line up a few advisors and there is little expertise among politicians, let alone agreement. Pua is DAP's one and only economic advisor in a coalition in which the other two parties, KeAdilan and PAS, economic expertise is sorely lacking. THE CORRIDORS OF POWER Raja Petra Kamarudin Classified By: Acting Economic Counselor Juha Salin for reasons 1.4 (b) and (d). 1. (C) Summary:  On Thursday, August 14, Econ Counselor and Econoff met with Tony Pua, opposition Democratic Action Party (DAP) Member of Parliament.  Pua is DAP's one and only economic advisor in a coalition in which the other two parties, KeAdilan ("Justice") and PAS (Islamic), economic expertise is sorely lacking.  Pua explained that the opposition's economic polices on maintaining an open business climate and attracting investment were not much different from those of the current government. Fighting corruption was the top priority in opposition-controlled states, but Pua said if he had his way he would make education priority number two, beginning with efforts to attract world-class universities to open branch campuses in Malaysia. End summary. OPENNESS TO BUSINESS; FIGHTING CORRUPTION... 2. (U) Pua said the economic policies of the PKR opposition coalition would be the same as under the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition with a commitment to an open business climate and attracting foreign direct investment among its top priorities.  There was some disagreement within the PKR on how to fix the "New Economic Policy," a system of racial preferences favoring the majority Muslim Malays. 3. (SBU) All three opposition parties agreed to make fighting corruption a priority by improving transparency and accountability and implementing projects through open tender, he said.  Even if it  was their only achievement, "cutting the fat" (fighting corruption) over the next two years would deliver significant gains, he said. ...BUT LITTLE AGREEMENT ON ANYTHING ELSE 4. (SBU) Coordination among the three opposition parties remained a problem, he said.  They had not formed a "shadow Cabinet"; they had not been able to agree on any power-sharing plan.  Other major differences remained, particularly a plank in the PAS platform to make Malaysia an Islamic State.  While PKR defacto leader Anwar often made populist statements demanding a reduction in fuel prices or more subsidies on food, there was no mechanism to consult with others in the coalition before making such pronouncements.  "If Anwar thinks it sounds good, he says it," Pua explained, "and we just have to live with it.  We don't voice our disagreement, but we disagree." ECONOMIC POLICY NOT A VOTE-GETTER, NOT A STRONG POINT 5. (C) Economic policy simply was not a priority, Pua explained, because it was not a "vote-getter."  Economic expertise was sorely lacking in the three-party opposition coalition, he said.  While the Central Bank has talented staff to advise the federal government, the state governments under opposition control had neither a civil service competent in developing or advising on economic policy, nor the resources to hire such talent.  The maximum pay for a state-level government employee without a title of "Director" was RM 5,000 per month, but Pua was helping Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng find willing economists to form an economic policy team, and the money to pay them.  So far, he had not had much luck.  "Smart people don't want to touch politics," he explained, "and even the think tanks are tied to the BN." 6. (U) While Pua had drafted a fifty-page "shadow budget" which is available on DAP's website, neither of his allied parties had focused on economics, he said.  The Islamic Party (PAS) had issued a two-page document with broad, vague principles and goals, and KeAdilan had not released anything. PUA'S WISH FOR MALAYSIA: BETTER EDUCATION 7. (U) When asked what his top priority would be to improve Malaysia's economy, Pua immediately said education.  He said he would try to get world-class universities to open branch campuses in Malaysia, for example, an Executive MBA program by Harvard.  "Smart people create jobs and wealth, and attract multi-national corporations," he said.  Econ Counselor pointed out that U.S. universities had looked into coming to Malaysia in the past, but had declined because the Ministry of Education had not allowed them to determine their own curriculum. COMMENT: 8. (C) The lack of economic expertise among the allied opposition parties underlines some of the difficulties they would have if they were to take over the federal government.  The opposition-controlled state governments are struggling just to line up a few advisors and there is little expertise among politicians, let alone agreement.  The bright side is that the opposition seems fully aware of its shortcomings in this regard and is unlikely to make sweeping changes. Bad ideas undoubtedly will emerge, but the Chinese business community should be able to veto them through their DAP representatives. KEITH (August 2008)

WIKILEAKS: RELIGIOUS, RACIAL POLITICS MARK RUN-UP TO CRITICAL BY-ELECTION Posted: 05 Nov 2011 08:29 PM PDT A hostile crowd of about 500 protesters assembled in front of the building, including representatives from the Pan-Malaysia Islamic Party (PAS), Anwar Ibrahim's People Justice Party (PKR) (including a Member of Parliament), the United Malay National Organization (UMNO), and Muslim-based NGOs. A group of protesters led by Peninsular Malay Students Federations (GPMS) Vice-president Jais Abdul Karim and PKR MP Zulkifli Noordin stormed the building shortly after the forum began. Police at the scene made no attempt to stop the protesters, but actually escorted them inside, where the demonstrators disrupted the proceedings, using racial epithets and other derogatory language and forcing Bar Council President Ambiga Sreenevasan to close the forum. Police did not make any arrests of the protestors, but have announced that they are investigating the forum's organizers. THE CORRIDORS OF POWER Raja Petra Kamarudin Classified By: Classified By: Acting Political Section Chief William G. Gray for reasons 1.4 (b and d).  1.  (C) Summary.  The ruling National Front (BN) coalition is gearing up to oppose Anwar Ibrahim's return to parliament via an August 26 by-election.  BN tactics include intense rhetoric with religious and racial connotations.  A Malaysian Bar Council forum on conversion to Islam was shut down by a group of Muslim protesters spanning the political spectrum, a development that has provided the BN and government-controlled media with opportunities to rouse the emotions of their Muslim/Malay base.  In the meantime, the Government has again threatened to shut down a Catholic newspaper for "dabbling in politics."  Government and BN spokesmen continue to label Anwar an "American stooge" and accuse the USG of "meddling" in the internal affairs of Malaysia.  Post expects the rhetoric to continue to intensify with both sides viewing the by-election as part of the zero-sum power struggle between UMNO and Anwar.  End Summary. Protesters Block Forum 2.  (SBU) The Malaysian Bar Council attempted to hold a forum, entitled "Conversion to Islam," at their national headquarters on August 9.  Included in the forum was a panel discussion of two high profile conversion cases involving the difficulties faced by non-Muslims in conversion cases related to religiously mixed marriages.  A hostile crowd of about 500 protesters assembled in front of the building, including representatives from the Pan-Malaysia Islamic Party (PAS), Anwar Ibrahim's People Justice Party (PKR) (including a Member of Parliament), the United Malay National Organization (UMNO), and Muslim-based NGOs.  A group of protesters led by Peninsular Malay Students Federations (GPMS) Vice-president Jais Abdul Karim and PKR MP Zulkifli Noordin stormed the building shortly after the forum began.  Police at the scene made no attempt to stop the protesters, but actually escorted them inside, where the demonstrators disrupted the proceedings, using racial epithets and other derogatory language and forcing Bar Council President Ambiga Sreenevasan to close the forum.  Police did not make any arrests of the protestors, but have announced that they are investigating the forum's organizers. 3.  (SBU) Criticism of the forum has crossed political lines and split both the opposition and ruling alliances.  On August 8, de facto Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, taking a position similar to that of Deputy Prime Minister Najib, said that such forums should be held behind closed doors and not openly.  However, PKR Deputy President Syed Husin Ali condemned the group that entered the Bar Council, including PKR MP Zulkifli.  Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi said he hoped such forums would not be organized in the future, explaining, "issues concerning religion are very sensitive" and since matters on religion "are spelt out," there was no need for discussions.  Abdullah added that he would leave it up to the Home Ministry to decide whether action, including using the Internal Security Act (ISA) and Sedition Act, might be taken against the Bar Council. 4.  (SBU)  Syed Hamid, Home Minister, said he "hoped that the Bar council got the message that there are certain things that are out of bounds for public discussion, even if held in a private place."  DPM Najib dismissed the protesters' disruption, saying it was "expected" and blamed the disruption on the Bar Council for its "stubborn" insistence on holding the forum.  De facto Religious Affairs Minister Ahmad Zahid encouraged authorities to take action against the Bar Council for its "defiance" by proceeding with the forum. He claimed the forum had a "hidden agenda to disparage Islam."  While UMNO leaders have united in criticizing the Bar Council, the non-Malay parties of the BN, including Gerakan and MCA, have emphasized the need to address the problems the Bar Council was attempting to discuss. Catholic Herald Under Renewed Pressure 5.  (SBU) GOM has renewed its pressure on the Catholic weekly newsletter Herald for allegedly "dabbling" in politics (reftel).  The Home Affairs had issued a show-cause letter on July 16 accusing the paper of committing two offenses - not focusing on religion and religious activities, and carrying an article purportedly degrading Islam.  The division issued another warning on August 12 that Herald's permit will be suspended if it goes ahead with a planned editorial on the Permatang Pauh by-election in its forthcoming issue.  The Herald has a circulation of 12, 0000 and carries reports in English, Bahasa Malaysia, Tamil and Chinese.  Editor Father Lawrence Lim denied that the publication had breached permit conditions.  In his reply to the Home Affairs Ministry, Father Lim stated that the Ministry had not defined the concept of "religion" in the application form for a publishing permit and neither is there a definition in the Constitution.  Father Lim pointed out that the forthcoming editorial was only asking people to pray for a just and fair by-election. Anwar Portrayed as U.S. Puppet 6.  (SBU) The GOM is continuing its fierce rhetoric on Anwar Ibrahim, describing him as an American lackey.  Foreign Minister Rais Yatim fired the first salvo by stating that the USG should not meddle in Malaysia's internal affairs, arguing that even the UN secretary-general has not said anything about how Malaysia is handling its legal matters.  The press has quoted Rais as saying that he planned to write a letter to the UNSYG Ban complaining about U.S. "meddling.  Rais has maintained that the official U.S. stance as well as statements by former Vice President Gore and former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor violated the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the UN Charter.  Echoing the foreign minister's view, UMNO Youth Internal Bureau Chairman and former PM Mahathir's son Mukhriz Mahathir described Anwar as a political puppet of the United States government.  He added that the statements by the USG and its former leaders are "a concerted conspiracy to install their lackey in Malaysia."  The UMNO-owned Malay newspapers have also prominently editorialized on allegedly close links between the U.S. and Anwar. The Next Steps 7.  (SBU) Anwar and BN continue to prepare to submit their by-election nominations on August 16 while his lawyers, confident they have a very strong case, prepare for the next stage of the legal process, which resumes on September 10. Anwar is expected to make appearances at a series of political rallies leading up to election day.  Although BN publicly talks about defeating Anwar, privately they concede his likely victory and seek to make the margin as small as possible.  Poloffs will monitor the Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party Congress on August 15 in the Opposition controlled state of Perak as well as the by-election on August 26. Comment 8.  (C) The response to the Bar Council forum has illustrated the Government's willingness to utilize religious sensitivities and tensions for political gains.  The involvement of party members from PAS and PKR show the fragile nature of the Opposition's coalition and the potential for UMNO strategists to continue exploiting the coalition's lack of cohesiveness, especially along religious and racial lines.  The Malay language press on August 13 gave prominent and sympathetic coverage to a demonstration by thousands of students at the exclusively Malay Mara Technical University against a proposal by the new PKR-controlled Selangor state government to "integrate" the university by allotting 10 percent of the places for non-Malays.  As the by-election draws near, BN will likely increase the rhetoric, including implications that Malays' preferred status will disappear if Anwar and the opposition seize control of the government.  The message emerging in the Government-controlled media is that Anwar represents increased instability and a loss of sovereignty to the West, particularly the United States.  While fierce, religious and ethnic-tinged rhetoric is not unusual in Malaysian politics, the intensity of the current campaign likely reflects the views of the major players that the Opposition/BN power struggle is a zero-sum game.  Anwar believes he must become prime minister or go to jail over the politically-motivated sodomy charges and top UMNO leaders fear political defeat would mean loss of their positions of privilege and in some cases even result in exposure to possible criminal charges for graft and corruption. KEITH (August 2008)

WIKILEAKS: HOME MINISTER ASSEMBLES DIPLOMATS, DEFENDS HANDLING OF ANWAR CASE Posted: 04 Nov 2011 08:38 PM PDT The GOM is becoming aware of the negative impact the Anwar case has had on its international reputation and is acting to change the negative foreign perceptions. Today's briefing was an attempt by the GOM to influence the diplomatic community, counter Anwar's own messaging the day before, and work against critical international media attention. The Minister shared no new information with the group as a whole and we doubt the briefing swayed diplomats to change their prior opinions; indeed, we heard a good measure of cynicism from some of the gathered diplomats. THE CORRIDORS OF POWER Raja Petra Kamarudin Classified By: POLITICAL SECTION CHIEF MARK D. CLARK, REASON 1.4 (B AND D). Summary 1.  (C) Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar briefed foreign diplomats, including the Ambassador, on the sodomy case against Anwar Ibrahim on July 23, one day after de facto Opposition leader conducted his own diplomatic briefing. Syed Hamid dismissed claims of conspiracy, defended the police handling of the case, and emphasized that Anwar was being treated fairly as "Malaysia follows the rule of law." In a follow-on conversation, the Home Minister told the Ambassador the government believed the criminal act of sodomy was consensual, and stated authorities would decide whether to prosecute prior to the expiration of Anwar's bail on August 18.  Today's briefing reportedly was the result of a Cabinet decision.  The GOM is becoming aware of the damage the Anwar case has had on its international reputation and is acting to challenge negative foreign perceptions.  End Summary. Home Minister: "We want the truth to be told" 2.  (SBU) Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar on July 23 delivered a hastily-arranged briefing on Anwar Ibrahim's sodomy case to 96 representatives of the diplomatic corps.  The Ambassador and poloff attended.  The briefing came the day after Anwar's own briefing to diplomats (ref A).  The Minister stated the briefing was not a "rebuttal," but just to "state the facts" and present the government's side of the case.  Syed Hamid explicitly and repeatedly encouraged the assembled diplomats to use the information in the briefing to "put some of the picture right."  The Minister acknowledged the government is "fighting a battle of perception" and that Anwar's case was making "Malaysia familiar with (the concept of) trial in the media."  He said the idea of a government conspiracy against Anwar was "nonsense."  After the briefing, he told reporters, "To us, there is no need to be afraid of the truth.  Let them hear both sides.  Whether they believe it or not is another matter but I think they will appreciate our transparency." 3.  (SBU) Syed Hamid's briefing reiterated previous declarations that the GOM was not influencing the case.  He repeatedly offered examples of how the police responded with deliberate caution in its investigation of the allegations. The Minister stated Anwar received special treatment, not usually afforded suspects, such as not being arrested immediately and having his lawyer present while the police questioned him.  He defended the manner in which police arrested Anwar by stating Anwar's home is well fortified and protected by armed private security.  He denied police wore baklavas (masks) when making the arrest, noting that "normal police" arrested Anwar and those in Baklavas were merely providing security. 4.  (SBU) Syed Hamid referred to Anwar's sodomy charge in 1998 to support the current allegations of sodomy.  He further stated, "We want the truth to be told.  Let us investigate it and we will then know whether to proceed (with charges)." "Malaysia follows rule of law" 5.  (SBU) Syed Hamid explained that officials had not yet provided Anwar with the police report alleging sodomy because Malaysian law prohibits releasing such a report until the accused is formally charged.  He reiterated that every part of the investigation and police actions is within legal boundaries and that "Malaysia follows the rule of law."  He cited the removal of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Attorney General (AG) from an active role in the case because Anwar accused them of abuses when Anwar was in custody in 1998.  He declared the police and attorney general personnel investigating the case do not report to the IGP and AG.  (Note:  The government announced the AG and IGP's recusal several weeks into the case.  End Note.) Minister takes swing at "outside" interference 6. (SBU) Alluding to but not specifying critical statements made by USG officials and American NGOs, Syed Hamid said Malaysia does not need the involvement of outside bodies to ensure citizens are protected.  He continued by describing Malaysia as a rule of law country willing to do whatever was necessary to protect its citizens.  The Minister also stated Malaysia has different morals and standards from other countries, represented by its own laws, which it must follow. Decision to prosecute before August 18 7.  (C) Ambassador Keith and other selected western diplomats had the opportunity to sit with the Minister following the briefing.  The Ambassador asked Syed Hamid how often it pursued sodomy cases and whether prosecutors treated consensual cases differently from non-consensual ones.  The Minister replied that there were many sodomy cases and that once a police report was filed, prosecutors still tended to file charges regardless of whether the act was consensual or not.  He confided to the table that police believe the accuser, Saiful, consented to being sodomized, but later regretted participating in the act.  Syed Hamid alleged the 23-year old was so upset over the sodomy that he attempted suicide prior to filing the initial police report.  Saiful made his official complaint only after he went for a regular medical exam and told the doctor he was previously sodomized. The Minister also told the Ambassador prosecutors would make the decision on whether to charge Anwar prior to the expiration of his bail on August 18. Comment 8. (C) The GOM is becoming aware of the negative impact the Anwar case has had on its international reputation and is acting to change the negative foreign perceptions.  Today's briefing was an attempt by the GOM to influence the diplomatic community, counter Anwar's own messaging the day before, and work against critical international media attention.  The decision to hold the briefing was taken by the Cabinet earlier in the day at its regularly scheduled meeting, a ministry official told us, which accounts for the lack of advance notice.  The Minister shared no new information with the group as a whole and we doubt the briefing swayed diplomats to change their prior opinions; indeed, we heard a good measure of cynicism from some of the gathered diplomats.  The government's decision to hold the event and the Ambassador's discussion with the Home Minister afterward served to reinforce our belief that the GOM already has decided to charge Anwar for sodomy, and it will take this next step by mid-August. KEITH (July 2008)

WIKILEAKS: PAS LEADER FAVORS TAKING POWER THROUGH NEXT ELECTION; SNAP POLLS POSSIBLE Posted: 03 Nov 2011 01:00 AM PDT Nasaruddin Mat Isa, Deputy President of the opposition Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) and Member of Parliament, told us on May 21 that PAS was not very happy with talk of ruling National Front (BN) Members of Parliament crossing over to the opposition Peoples Alliance and thus bringing down the BN government. PAS leadership believed that the Alliance at this juncture should maintain the current political status quo and strengthen their administration in the five opposition-held states. THE CORRIDORS OF POWER Raja Petra Kamarudin Classified By: POLITICAL SECTION CHIEF MARK D. CLARK, REASON 1.4 (B AND D). Summary 1.  (C) Nasaruddin Mat Isa, Deputy President of the Islamist opposition party PAS, speaking with us on May 21, said the opposition should seek to take power through the next federal election, rather than through immediate defections by ruling coalition MPs, in part to reduce the risk of a harsh crackdown by the National Front government.  PAS leaders are geared up for possible snap national elections, but opposition parties would not rerun elections in the five states they control.  Nasaruddin linked Mahathir's surprise resignation from the UMNO party with the Cabinet's decision to release a prominent report on judicial corruption that implicates the former Prime Minister.  End Summary. Elections, Not Defections 2.  (C) Nasaruddin Mat Isa, Deputy President of the opposition Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) and Member of Parliament, told us on May 21 that PAS was not very happy with talk of ruling National Front (BN) Members of Parliament crossing over to the opposition Peoples Alliance and thus bringing down the BN government (refs B and C).  PAS leadership believed that the Alliance at this juncture should maintain the current political status quo and strengthen their administration in the five opposition-held states. Once the opposition parties can demonstrate to the public that they can deliver, the people will support the Peoples Alliance and topple the BN government in the next election. Furthermore, even if enough BN MPs were to cross over to the Alliance, UMNO and BN leaders will not give up power easily. By virtue of his position, PM Abdullah is still very powerful, and "he still has the option of declaring emergency rule" or using the Internal Security Act (ISA) to detain UMNO's opponents, although Nasaruddin quickly added Abdullah "is no Mahathir" (i.e., not as likely to use authoritarian methods). Snap Polls Possible, But Not in Opposition States 3.  (C) PAS leaders were geared up for Prime Minister Abdullah calling a snap election if the current "political impasse persists in UMNO," Nasaruddin said.  He stressed, however, that if the PM dissolves Parliament, the Alliance will not follow suit in dissolving the state legislative assemblies of the five states under their control.  An MP from Anwar Ibrahim's Peoples Justice Party (PKR) who joined us, nodded in agreement.  (Note:  State governments need not follow the federal electoral cycle, though in recent history all states except Sarawak have held elections coinciding with the national polls.  End Note.) Mahathir's UMNO Resignation Linked to Judicial Probe 4.  (C) Nasaruddin pointed out proudly that it was a PAS member who "brought down" Mahathir by precipitating the former Prime Minister's decision to resign from UMNO (ref A). (Note:  At a public forum on May 19, Mahathir called on UMNO members to leave the party temporarily as the only way to bring down PM Abdullah.  Reportedly, one member of the audience who turned out to be a PAS member dared the former PM to lead the way in leaving the party, and Mahathir obliged on the spot.  End Note.) 5.  (C) In addition, Nasaruddin contended that Mahathir's shock May 19 announcement was influenced by the Cabinet's decision on May 16 to publish the Royal Commission report probing allegations of corruption in the judiciary (the Linggam inquiry).  The report concluded that six prominent government and judicial figures including Mahathir were involved in the manipulation of appointments of top judges for political purposes.  The PAS leader speculated that the publication of the photographs of six personalities in the front pages of newspapers even before the Attorney General Chambers started its investigation must have angered the former PM who felt that his legacy was crumbling.  In the rural areas, particularly in the Malay heartland, the six photographs are shown at evening rallies (ceramahs) associating them with a famous 1960s Malay movie "Enam Jahanam" (or "Doomed Six"). KEITH (May 2008)

WIKILEAKS: PM ADVISOR LIM ON REFORMS AND ABDULLAH'S EVENTUAL DEPARTURE Posted: 02 Nov 2011 01:00 AM PDT Lim described the current political scene as highly fluid but downplayed rumors that ruling coalition members from Sabah would switch sides to join the opposition in coming days. He said that it's in opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim's interest to keep "stirring the pot" by keeping maximum pressure on UMNO and its coalition partners but hinted that he believes it's a bluff. Echoing what we've heard from other UMNO quarters, Lim claimed the opposition will be unready to assume power until it settles the question of whether Malaysia should be an Islamic state. THE CORRIDORS OF POWER Raja Petra Kamarudin Classified By: AMBASSADOR JAMES R. KEITH, REASON 1.4 (B AND D) 1. (C) SUMMARY:  The Ambassador hosted Prime Ministerial Political Secretary Vincent Lim to dinner on the evening of May 14.  (Note:  This dinner occurred prior to former PM Mahathir's May 19 anouncement that he would quit the ruling party.  See reftel for Embassy reporting on Mahathir,' surprise announcement.)  The world-weary Lim appeared resigned to the Abdullah administration's eventual departure, although Lim seemed to think that it would be later rather than sooner.   He acknowledged that the PM had not been a strong leader.   The PM's announcement of judicial and other reforms, while important and far reaching, had come too late, and he conveyed the clear impression that the PM's program faced resistance within UMNO.  Lim volunteered that the Prime Minister was spending more time than ever in Parliament answering members' questions and that this was part of his  post-March 8 strategy of transparency but his tone  suggested that it may be as much to deter ruling coalition  members from joining the opposition.  Lim downplayed the chances of an opposition majority in parliament while at the same time lamenting that opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim could acquire excessive power depending on how he engineered a takeover.  Lim was confident that DPM Najib remained loyal to the PM, that the two had an understanding about how to effect the succession, and that all Najib had to do was wait patiently.  Lim sounded tired and dispirited, perhaps worn down by his PM's political vicissitudes, his inability to implement a thoroughgoing reform program, the political uncertainties after March 8, and the prospect of the PM's eventual departure from office. The DCM also attended the dinner.  END SUMMARY. The Prospects for Reform 2. (C) Lim said PM Abdullah did the right thing by supporting judicial reform and the establishment of an anti-corruption commission, but he had promised these when he came into office four years ago, and the move came too late.  On the future prospects for these reforms, Lim commented resignedly that the PM was having to walk a fine line between liberal cabinet members like Zaid Ibrahim, who strongly advocated the reforms, and UMNO conservatives who opposed reform like new Home Minister Syed Hamid.  He wondered aloud about the prospects for any successful economic reform in Malaysia, noting that the Chinese economy was growing rapidly while Malaysia seemed to be bogged down. The Prime Minister's Parliamentary Strategy 3. (C) Lim volunteered that the Prime Minister had remained in Parliament to respond to members' questions until 11 PM the night before and that this had become a pattern for the PM since the present session's opening.   He indicated that this was part of the PM's post-general election strategy of openness, in which he was requiring that his cabinet ministers, and not their deputies or their parliamentary secretaries be present during question time.  (Note:  Lim refused to be drawn out on another reason we had heard for the PM's attentiveness to parliament:  the need to ensure that Sabah BN members don't jump the aisle to join the opposition.)  Lim acknowledged that televising parliamentary sessions had been a public relations disaster at first, as members had lost discipline and played to the camera, but that floor debate had regained some of its  civility since the opening days, and he thought the cameras  would remain. A Fluid Political Scene 4. (C) Lim described the current political scene as highly fluid but downplayed rumors that ruling coalition members from Sabah would switch sides to join the opposition in coming days.  He said that it's in opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim's interest to keep "stirring the pot" by keeping maximum pressure on UMNO and its coalition partners but hinted that he believes it's a bluff.  Echoing what we've heard from other UMNO quarters, Lim claimed the opposition will be unready to assume power until it settles the question of whether Malaysia should be an Islamic state. This is a fundamental issue for PAS, Anwar's Islamist opposition partner, and it's not one that can be easily resolved.  The Democratic Action Party (DAP) will never agree to any formulation suggesting Malaysia is an Islamic state, Lim said.  (Comment:  DPM Najib's public remark in 2007 that Malaysia is already an Islamic state helped to further alienate non-Malay components of BN.  End Comment.) He added that he thought the opposition was temperamentally unready for rule because they had never thought they would garner as many votes as they had during the election.  The fact that Anwar's Keadilan party had won so many seats came as a shock to PAS and DAP, which had agreed among themselves on which seats they would contest and gave the leftovers to Keadilan.  The opposition would not do nearly as well in the next election, Lim commented.   He nevertheless thought that there were two scenarios in which Anwar could gain power. One would be for him to convince enough BN members of parliament to cross the aisle and join the opposition to form a new majority.  A much better scenario from Anwar's point of view would be for a large number of UMNO members to come over to his side.   Without explaining what he meant, Lim intoned curiously that if Anwar gained power by the latter method he would have more power than Mahathir, he'd be unstoppable, and we'd all regret it. The UMNO Succession 5. (C) Turning to the question of political succession within UMNO, Lim indicated that Prime Minister Abdullah and Deputy Prime Minister had cut a deal.  Echoing what we've seen in the press on this subject, Lim said "it's a question of when and not whom."  "DPM Najib will be the PM's successor, and all he has to do is wait," he emphasized. Lim continued that Najib has been very careful and very loyal to the Prime Minister since the March 8 election, "and I've never seen them closer."  He turned philosophical, almost fatalistic about the PM's tenure in office.  "The PM is a decent, pious man with strong views about what's right," Lim explained, "but he doesn,t have  the drive that Mahathir had." COMMENT 6. (C) Lim struck us by turns as tired, dispirited, disappointed, and uncertain.  He appeared confident that the opposition will fail to take over parliament any time soon but at the same time he seemed disappointed with Abdullah's performance and ultimate departure from office.  Lim is one of the "fourth floor boys" -- the group of young political advisors that also includes Public Affairs Chief Kamal Khalid -- who manage day-to-day political operations for the Prime Minister.  He is close to Prime Ministerial son-in-law Khairy Jamaluddin, and appears to have shared in his political colleagues' initial image as enthusiastic reformers.  Reading between the lines, it seemed that Lim was trying to tell us that Abdullah's administration, along with his "fourth floor  boys" represented Malaysia's best chance for reform and  that neither an Anwar government nor Najib's succession would offer such an opportunity. KEITH (May 2008)

WIKILEAKS: AMBASSADOR AND ATTORNEY GENERAL DISCUSS ISA, TERRORISM AND EXPORT CONTROLS Posted: 01 Nov 2011 01:00 AM PDT Abdul Gani remarked that he was not fully comfortable with the current ISA system, and, speaking personally and confidentially, said he believed ISA advisory boards should be strengthened and ISA detention periods shortened. He also believed that some persons held under ISA on terrorism grounds were in fact not guilty. In addition, the police Special Branch was "jealous" of its primary counter-terrorism role and did not readily share information with the AGO or police investigators; even the Inspector General of Police (IGP) was not kept fully informed. THE CORRIDORS OF POWER Raja Petra Kamarudin Classified By: Political Section Chief Mark D. Clark for reasons 1.4 (b and d). Summary 1.  (S) The Ambassador called on Malaysia's Attorney General Abdul Gani Patail on May 13 and discussed prospects for prosecuting terrorists, the importance of passing an export control law, and factors affecting progress in the FTA talks. The Ambassador congratulated the AG on drafting of the 2007 anti-trafficking in persons (TIP) law and the recent announcement of the first TIP prosecution.  Abdul Gani described the importance of preventative action against terrorists using the Internal Security Act (ISA), noted that information on terrorists was often not available outside the police Special Branch, and said he would discuss the possibility of prosecutions with the Inspector General of Police.  Abdul Gani stated that his office recently had completed a new draft of the export control legislation.  In the FTA talks, he blamed some GOM agencies for their inability to define Malaysia's interests.  The Attorney General said that his office enjoyed good mutually supportive relations with U.S. law enforcement personnel, including the FBI.  End Summary. ISA and Prosecuting Terrorists 2.  (S) In the course of discussion during the May 13 meeting with Attorney General Abdul Gani, Ambassador Keith, accompanied by polchief and Legatt, urged the Malaysian government to give serious consideration to future prosecution of some terrorists suspects otherwise held for renewable two-year terms of detention under provisions of the Internal Security Act (ISA).  While Malaysia's firm preventative actions against terrorists using the ISA had helped Malaysia avoid any attacks, Malaysia's security interests would be served by convicting in a court of law some dangerous terrorists and sentencing them to long jail terms, rather than releasing them after two to six years of ISA detention and uncertain rehabilitation.  The Ambassador also noted that the political scene was shifting and there could be more domestic pressure to do away with the ISA in the future.  The Ambassador added that the U.S. differentiates between use of ISA against persons who present immediate danger to the public, and application of ISA detention for political reasons. 3.  (S) Abdul Gani said Malaysia continued to take strict measures and rely on the ISA to detain terrorists, like Jemaah Islamiyah members, before they could act.  Laws could not be used effectively to deter suicide bombers. Prosecution was difficult because the information available was often intelligence data, not the result of normal police investigation.  The AGO did not have investigative powers of its own but must rely on the police.  In addition, the police Special Branch was "jealous" of its primary counter-terrorism role and did not readily share information with the AGO or police investigators; even the Inspector General of Police (IGP) was not kept fully informed.  Nevertheless, "if we have a case I don't mind prosecuting," Abdul Gani remarked, noting he would take advantage of a previously scheduled meeting with the IGP later that day to raise this issue. 4.  (S) Abdul Gani argued that it was unfair to describe jailing under ISA as "detention without trial" because cases came before advisory boards for periodic hearings.  Detainees also could apply for writs of habeas corpus for which, however, the role of courts was limited to examining legal procedures rather than the merits of the case, leaving judgments about security to the government.  Abdul Gani remarked that he was not fully comfortable with the current ISA system, and, speaking personally and confidentially, said he believed ISA advisory boards should be strengthened and ISA detention periods shortened.  He also believed that some persons held under ISA on terrorism grounds were in fact not guilty.  On a separate matter, Abdul Gani took exception to the government's overly wide application of the Official Secrets Act. Export Controls 5.  (C) The Ambassador highlighted the importance to Malaysia of passing an export control law as a means of attracting high technology investment and bolstering its status as an international trading hub.  The Ambassador offered further U.S. technical assistance on export control laws, noting with regret that the Foreign Ministry had canceled a legal seminar scheduled for early May.  Over time, Malaysia's interest also would be served by supporting international structures, such as the Missile Control Technology Regime, the Ambassador added.  Abdul Gani replied that the AGO recently had completed a new draft of the export control legislation, and had just circulated this within the government for comment. The involvement of some 40 government agencies in export controls had complicated drafting tremendously. FTA 6. (C) Abdul Gani commented on Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks, blaming the Malaysian government's lack of understanding of some issues for slow progress.  GOM agencies did not know or could not articulate Malaysia's long-terms interests, for example which commodities Malaysia hoped to export to the U.S. in years to come.  The GOM at times cannot formulate negotiating positions, because "we don't know what we want." Abdul Gani remarked that proposed Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) courts were "a joke," implying that Malaysia lacked requisite expert knowledge of IPR.  (Comment: IPR courts already exist in Malaysia and were established outside the context of the FTA negotiations.  Ironically, it is Abdul Gani who has cancelled expanded IPR training by AG officials with U.S. experts.  The fact is the GOM does have clear targets of interest, including textiles.  The problem is the GOM is unable to reach consensus on what it is willing to give up in return for its desired targeted gains.  End Comment.) MLAT, Trafficking in Persons 7.  (SBU) The Ambassador thanked the Attorney General for his role in concluding the 2006 U.S.-Malaysia Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT), noting this was moving through the U.S. Senate now and stating that we wanted to put the MLAT to practical use.  The Ambassador congratulated the Attorney General for drafting the comprehensive anti-trafficking in persons law in 2007, pushing for the law's full enforcement as of March which allowed for the opening of shelters for victims, and for initiating the first criminal prosecution under the TIP law in early May (septel).  Abdul Gani commented on the difficulties in stopping human trafficking absent effective actions in originating countries. 8.  (SBU) The Attorney General said that over the past five years his office had enjoyed good mutually supportive relations with U.S. law enforcement personnel, including the FBI.  Abdul Gani spoke highly of his interaction with previous U.S. Attorney General Gonzales. 9.  (SBU) Abdul Gani requested Embassy support "to open doors" for qualified Malaysian officials to enter top U.S. university graduate programs in areas like international trade and finance law.  He also asked for the Embassy to look for ways to attract lecturers from prestigious U.S. universities to teach in Malaysia.  The Ambassador noted the Embassy would be willing to assist, but added that Malaysian government requirements for control over curriculum inhibited U.S. universities from operating in Malaysia. KEITH (May 2008)

WIKILEAKS: IMMIGRATION DETAINEES RIOT AFTER RELA BEATS PRISONERS Posted: 31 Oct 2011 01:00 AM PDT On April 20, after more cigarettes were found, Immigration officers beat an Indonesian and a Pakistani detainee. One refugee described how the officers struck the men on the soles of their feet and along their shins, and administered electric shocks. The Pakistani detainee reportedly cried out for help during his beating and, unable to walk, tried to crawl away until another detainee was ordered to drag the injured man back to the detention block.  THE CORRIDORS OF POWER Raja Petra Kamarudin Classified By: POLITICAL SECTION CHIEF MARK D. CLARK, REASON 1.4 (B AND D). Summary 1.  (C) Some 60 to 70 detained suspected illegal immigrants rioted at Lenggeng Immigration Detention Center (IDC) on April 21, setting fire to the temporary administration building according to press and firsthand accounts. Malaysia's Head of Immigration Enforcement claimed the riot started after the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) refused the refugees' applications for resettlement, an allegation denied by UNHCR.  Based on multiple witnesses' accounts, the riot's catalyst was the severe beatings of detainees by Immigration Officers and People's Volunteer Corps (RELA) members assigned as guards to Lenggeng.  The Malaysian Human Rights Commission (SUHAKAM) told us deplorable conditions, overcrowding and alleged abuses by RELA all contributed to the riot.  We continue to express concern to the GOM regarding RELA's increased authority over immigration enforcement.  End Summary. RELA Guards Overcrowded Facilities 2.  (SBU) Lenggeng IDC is one of 17 IDCs in Malaysia. Formerly operated by the Prisons Department, the IDCs are now responsibility of the Immigration Department, which lacks sufficient personnel and therefore uses RELA, a government-sponsored public security auxiliary force, to guard the facilities (ref A and B).  Besides providing security, RELA members also arrest suspected illegal immigrants for a bounty.  The Lenggeng facility is severely overcrowded.  Siva Subramaniam, a commissioner for SUHAKAM, informed poloffs the camp currently holds 1,090 prisoners, including seven children and about 280 women.  Building tensions between the detainees and their guards came to a head on April 21 when some 60 - 70 detainees rioted and set fire to a temporary administration building. Witnesses Tell Their Stories 3.  (SBU) Poloffs met with two Burmese refugees formerly detained at Lenggeng on May 6.  They related that on or about March 31, Immigration and RELA guards accused a group of Burmese and Indonesians of smoking in camp and allegedly punished the group with a beating.  On April 20, after more cigarettes were found, Immigration officers beat an Indonesian and a Pakistani detainee.  One refugee described how the officers struck the men on the soles of their feet and along their shins, and administered electric shocks.  The Pakistani detainee reportedly cried out for help during his beating and, unable to walk, tried to crawl away until another detainee was ordered to drag the injured man back to the detention block.  Other detainees became agitated and demanded to speak with the senior Immigration Officer. (Note:  A local NGO informed poloffs that officials took the man to Seremban Hospital for treatment.  End note.)  A RELA officer told detainees they could express their concerns the following morning. 4.  (C) According to the two Burmese refugees, the riot broke out the following morning after detainees realized they would not get to speak with the senior officer.  The initial disruption involved detainees from two blocks destroying the interiors of those facilities.  Both Immigration and RELA guards, totaling about 30-40 officers, fled and took up positions at the camp's perimeter.  After detainees broke through the blocks' doors, a group set fire to the temporary administration building.  Several detainees attempted to flee the compound, but guards at the outer gate stopped them. Police, fire, and other security teams regained control and quelled the fire.  A number of detainees (including six Indonesians, five Burmese, a Vietnamese, and a Cambodian) were taken to the Seremban police station for questioning. (Note:  This account tracks closely with accounts provided to the UNHCR and another local NGO from sources within the camp. End note.) Immigration Blames UNHCR 5.  (SBU) Ishak Mohamed, Head of Immigration Enforcement, quickly blamed the UNHCR for the riot.  He told international press that rioters "were disappointed" after hearing that UNHCR could not place them in a third country.  However, the UNHCR quickly denied this, issuing a statement that "no news was delivered to the refugees that their resettlement requests had been denied."  (Note:  UNHCR counted 75 refugees and asylum seekers detained at Lenggeng during the riot.  All but seven refugees are Chin-Burmese.  End note.)  Despite UNHCR's clarification, the government-influenced mainstream media continued to maintain that UNHCR's denial of resettlement provoked the riot.  (Note: On some other immigration matters, Ishak continues to be accessible and helpful to the U.S. Mission.  End Note.) SUHAKAM Commissioner Describes Lenggeng 6.  (C) Poloffs met with SUHAKAM Commissioner Siva Subramaniam on April 25, the day after he personally visited Lenggeng.  He described prisoners living in severely overcrowded and unsanitary conditions.  About 280 women are detained in an isolated section of the camp and do not receive adequate medical care, including provision of sanitary napkins.  He approached NGOs, such as Tenaganita, to obtain basic essentials for the women.  He told us conditions in other IDCs are similar to Lenggeng.  He believes overcrowding and harsh treatment by RELA contributed to the riot.  Siva also noted severe understaffing at the IDCs, adding that only about 40 of the authorized 208 officer slots at Lenggeng are manned.  Prior to the riot, Siva claims he warned Immigration officials that the IDCs were "powder kegs" needing urgent reforms to deal with the growing burden.  Siva wants to hold a roundtable with RELA, Home Ministry, Immigration, and the Prison Department to discuss possible solutions to the underlying problems, such as overcrowding, poor sanitation, and detained children.  Our May 6 interview with two former detainees at Lenggeng reinforced Siva's description of the IDC's harsh conditions. Comment 7.  (C) The riot occurred during the same week the Home Ministry proposed elevating RELA to a formal government agency.  Immigration and RELA detain suspected illegal immigrants at a rate that outstrips Malaysia's current willingness and ability to expeditiously process deportations.  Siva noted that some of the detainees have languished at Lenggeng for almost 1 1/2 years.  Post continues to express our concerns about RELA in contacts with government officials, including Immigration. KEITH (May 2008)

WIKILEAKS: UMNO SETS PARTY ELECTION FOR DECEMBER, ABDULLAH LOSES TERENGGANU FIGHT Posted: 30 Oct 2011 01:00 AM PDT Mahathir upped the ante in his tussle with PM Abdullah by launching corruption allegations against the First Family in an article appearing in the March 28 edition of the Sun, an English language daily owned by Mahathir crony Vincent Tan. Related to the conflict between the King and the Prime Minister in Terengganu, Mahathir suggested that contracts for mega projects in the state "all went to one person and (people) are suspicious that behind this person are members of the First Family." According to rumors, Mahathir wrote, "the Prime Minister might have influenced the (Chief Minister) into doing wrong things." Mahathir called for "foreign agencies" to launch an investigation. THE CORRIDORS OF POWER Raja Petra Kamarudin Classified By: POLITICAL SECTION CHIEF MARK D. CLARK, REASON 1.4 (B AND D).   Summary 1.  (C) The March 27 Supreme Council meeting of Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi's ruling United Malays National Organization (UMNO) decided the party's election will be held December 16-20, 2008.  The election is widely anticipated to feature a challenge to Abdullah's continued leadership.  The election process formally will kick off in July with local UMNO branch contests.  The Supreme Council also endorsed the King's choice for Chief Minister in Terengganu state rather than continue on with PM Abdullah's own candidate, an outcome one UMNO division leader described as a "major slap" to the Prime Minister.  Meanwhile, UMNO veteran Tengku Razaleigh, reportedly with the support of former Prime Minister Mahathir, gathered a small host of UMNO leaders to his home to press his own campaign for leadership change.  Mahathir, in an article published in the mainstream media on March 28, upped the ante by suggesting the Prime Minister and members of his family could be involved in corruption and called for an investigation.  The UMNO Supreme Council's announcement of a timetable for party elections this year may help to thwart calls within UMNO to move more quickly to reexamine Abdullah Badawi's leadership, but the Prime Minister's battle for survival is far from over.  End Summary. Party Election in December - UMNO Supreme Council 2.  (U) The UMNO Supreme Council at its March 27 meeting decided to hold the party election in late December.  This represented a compromise of sorts between calls for the election to be held as early as August, and those who favored postponing the poll until 2009.  At the end of a four-hour session, the UMNO Supreme Council announced that UMNO branch level elections would take place July 17 - August 24, divisional level elections October 9 - November 9, and the election for the party supreme council would coincide with the annual UMNO general assembly on December 16-20. 3.  (SBU) Comment:  As the UMNO election likely could feature an attempt to oust PM Abdullah, a later date is seen as favoring the politically wounded Prime Minister.  UMNO's constitution provides for party elections every three years, with the possibility of postponing the election by up to 18 months.  UMNO held its last election in September 2004, indicating that the party poll must take place by March 2009. End Comment. 4.  (SBU) Party Information Chief Muhammad Muhammad Taib had told reporters March 25 that several UMNO division and state leaders who had been meeting party President PM Abdullah had urged the President to defer the party polls to 2009 to avoid "havoc and disaster."  However, the UMNO management committee in a meeting one day before the Supreme Council, recommended the election be held this year.  The committee is led by Deputy President/Deputy Prime Minister Najib and includes UMNO Vice President Muhiyiddin Yassin, both possible successors to Abdullah. Terengganu Fiasco 5.   (SBU) In a major reversal for PM Abdullah, the UMNO Supreme Council meeting also endorsed the appointment of Ahmad Said as Terengganu Chief Minister, a man backed by the Sultan of Terengganu who currently holds Malaysia's rotating kingship.   PM Abdullah had endorsed outgoing Chief Minister Idris Jusoh to continue in the post, a decision ignored by the King in a exercise of royal prerogative not seen since the 1970's.   PM Abdullah on March 23 had declared it would be unconstitutional to appoint anyone but Idris.  Nevertheless, Abdullah told reporters after the UMNO Supreme Council meeting that endorsing Ahmad's appointment was "the best decision" based on the need to form the state government and also given Idris' willingness to accept whatever decision was made. 6.  (C) An UMNO divisional leader in Kuala Lumpur told us on March 28 that the PM realized after his March 26 meeting with the King that Abdullah would not succeed in getting Idris reappointed as Chief Minister.  Furthermore, an impasse in the formation of the Terengganu state government would further embarrass UMNO especially in the eyes of the UMNO grassroots and the Malays.  The Islamist opposition party PAS had begun to take advantage of the situation by charging UMNO with "derhaka" or treason for going against the King.  The divisional leader stated candidly, "this episode was a major slap for Abdullah." Razaleigh Continues Campaign 7.  (C) While the UMNO Supreme Council was having its meeting, veteran UMNO leader Tengku Razaleigh held court with some 10 UMNO division leaders and 100 other party officials at his "White House" styled mansion in Kuala Lumpur. Razaleigh has lobbied UMNO divisions to hold an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) on May 11, the anniversary of UMNO's formation, and he has traveled the country seeking UMNO grassroots support.  While ostensibly addressing the reasons for UMNO's set-back in the March 8 elections, the EGM is seen as a means to challenge Abdullah's position and also promote Razaleigh's own announced ambition to seek the UMNO presidency.  On March 25, a close associate of Mahathir told us the former Prime Minister backs Razaleigh's efforts as a means to depose Abdullah Badawi.  We identified a number of those attending Razaleigh's March 28 meeting as associates of former Prime Minister Mahathir. 8.  (U) According to press sources, the ten UMNO divisional leaders who attended the meeting pledged their support for Razaleigh to challenge Abdullah.  They also pledged to launch a campaign calling for the abolition or relaxation of UMNO rules that require a challenger for the presidency to obtain endorsements from 30 percent of UMNO divisions before his name can appear on the ballot.  In the 2004 party election, Razaleigh attempted to challenge Abdullah for the presidency, but only managed to secure one division's nomination. Mahathir Raises First Family Corruption Rumors 9.  (U) Mahathir upped the ante in his tussle with PM Abdullah by launching corruption allegations against the First Family in an article appearing in the March 28 edition of the Sun, an English language daily owned by Mahathir crony Vincent Tan.  Related to the conflict between the King and the Prime Minister in Terengganu, Mahathir suggested that contracts for mega projects in the state "all went to one person and (people) are suspicious that behind this person are members of the First Family."  According to rumors, Mahathir wrote, "the Prime Minister might have influenced the (Chief Minister) into doing wrong things."  Mahathir called for "foreign agencies" to launch an investigation. Comment 10.  (C) The UMNO Supreme Council's announcement of a timetable for party elections this year may help to thwart calls, such as those by Mahathir and Razaleigh, for UMNO to move more quickly to reexamine Abdullah Badawi's leadership, but Abdullah's battle for survival is far from over.  The establishment of the elections time frame will kick off maneuvering at the branch and division levels to line up the proper support for the December leadership contest, and money politics likely will play a major role.  Abdullah's political capital hit another low as the UMNO Supreme Council failed to produce a face-saving resolution for Terengganu and the Prime Minister lost his public tug-of-war with the King.  Prior to the March 8 election, it would have been unthinkable for the mainstream press to carry articles, such as Mahathir's, with corruption allegations that named the Prime Minister and his family; instead, such writings were confined to the unregulated Internet media.  As the publication of Mahathir's article suggests, Malaysians are still testing the limits in the post March 8 political environment and have yet to reach any firm boundary. KEITH (March 2008)

WIKILEAKS: MALAYSIA'S NEW CABINET - STATUS QUO WITH ONLY HINTS OF REFORM Posted: 29 Oct 2011 01:00 AM PDT Abdullah, who boasted of selecting only honorable, uncorrupted ministers, was forced at his live March 18 press conference to field pointed questions from the journalists regarding his reappointment of Najib as DPM. One reporter specifically asked Abdullah to explain Najib's re-appointment given the frequent allegations of wrongdoing in military contracts. Abdullah, initially taken aback by the question, responded that "there is no proof that Najib is involved in any corrupt activities. People can make all kinds of allegations, but what is important is that there is no evidence of that." THE CORRIDORS OF POWER Raja Petra Kamarudin Classified By: Political Section Chief Mark D. Clark for reasons 1.4 (b, d). Summary 1.  (C) Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi announced his new cabinet on March 18, retaining roughly half (17) of his ministers from the previous cabinet, but bringing in only a few politicians identifiable for their reform credentials. Abdullah remained Finance Minister I, but gave up his position as Internal Security Minister.  Najib Tun Razak remains Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister.  Other senior UMNO stalwarts continue to occupy the most important portfolios, including Internal Security/Home Affairs (now combined), Finance II, Agriculture, and International Trade/Industry.  Former Culture Minister Rais Yatim has been appointed the new Minister of Foreign Affairs.  Abdullah shed a number of prominent cabinet members including Rafidah Aziz and Samy Vellu, while Abdullah's son-in-law Khairy Jamaluddin did not make the cut.  Identifiable reformers or UMNO progressives include Zaid Ibrahim with the de facto justice portfolio, Shahrir Samad for Domestic Trade, and possibly Shabery Cheek as Information Minister. 2.  (C) The cabinet make-up reflects UMNO's dominance in the National Front (BN) coalition, with 23 positions, unchanged from the outgoing cabinet.  East Malaysia only received a total of four cabinet seats, also unchanged from the previous cabinet despite Sabah and Sarawak's contribution of roughly one-third of BN's parliament seats.  The cabinet does not appear to strengthen DPM Najib's hand and possibly weakens it with the removal of several long-time Mahathir cronies, suggesting Abdullah does not want to empower the man best poised to challenge him for UMNO leadership.  Following the election debacle, Prime Minister Abdullah stated that he understood Malaysians were not satisfied with his first administration, but he will have a difficult time presenting the new cabinet as a strong platform for change in response to many voters' desertion of the National Front.  Regardless, PM Abdullah is not likely to be able to remain in office beyond the next UMNO elections, and we believe most observers will view this cabinet as an interim line-up until UMNO has settled its leadership question.  End Summary. Abdullah restructures his cabinet 3. (SBU) Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced his new cabinet in a noon press conference on March 18, just 10 days after his National Front (Barisan Nasional or BN) coalition emerged from a hotly contested snap election with a significantly decreased majority.  Malaysia's monarch, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, is scheduled to swear in the new ministers on March 19 at the National Palace.  In announcing the cabinet, Abdullah reduced the number of ministries from 28 to 27 and retained roughly half (17) of his former ministers.  Abdullah merged the Ministry of Internal Security and the Ministry of Home Affairs, recreating a significant concentration of power.  He also merged the Office of National Unity (formerly a division in the PM's Department) with the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage.  By eliminating all Parliamentary Secretaries, whose value to government efficiency appeared questionable, Abdullah further reduced the overall size of his cabinet from 90 to 68.  BN's reduced majority in the 12th Parliament and the corresponding increase in opposition parliamentarians mean Abdullah needs more back-benchers to regularly attend parliament sessions. A smaller cabinet will ensure BN controls sufficient seats in parliament on a daily basis to achieve their legislative objectives. Out with the old 4. (SBU) Conspicuously absent from the new line up are former Minister of International Trade and Industry, Rafidah Aziz; former Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Jamaluddin Jarjis; former Minister of Home Affairs and current UMNO Secretary General, Radzi Ahmad; former Minister of Tourism, Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor; former Minister of Human Resources, Dr. Fong Chan Onn; former Minister in the PM's Department, Dr. Abdullah Md Zin; and former Minister of Natural Resources, Azmi Khalid.  As previously announced, Abdullah did not nominate as senators and subsequently reappoint any previous cabinet member who failed to be reelected in the 2008 General Election, to include: former Minister of Rural and Regional Development Abdul Aziz Shamsuddin; former Minister of Public Works, S. Samy Vellu; and former Information Minister Zainuddin Maidin.  Former Minister of Housing and Local Government, MCA President Ong Ka Ting, declined to accept a new cabinet posting, and former ministers Chua Soi Lek (Health) and Dr. Lim Keng Yaik (Energy, Water and Communications) resigned before the 2008 elections.  Chan Kong Choy (Transportation) and Mohd Effendi Norwawi (PM's Department) did not seek re-election and were thus ineligible for reappointment. 5. (SBU) Former Women's Ministry Shahrizat Jalil became an exception to Abdullah's decision not to reappoint ministers who failed at the polls.  In a separate written announcement from the PM's office, Abdullah announced that Shahrizat, current deputy and possible heir apparent for UMNO's women's wing, has been appointed as a Special Advisor to the PM for women's issues, with the rank of minister. 6.  (C) We note that Abdullah's son-in-law Khairy Jamaluddin was absent from the new line up.  Prior to BN's shocking election set-back, Khairy was widely touted for a minister or deputy minister slot.  Many in UMNO appear to blame Khairy as an significant factor behind UMNO and BN's poor showing. In with the new 7.  (SBU) While several previous deputy ministers were promoted in the new cabinet, there were a number of new faces to Abdullah's administration.  Most notable of the new additions are attorney and former parliamentarian Zaid Ibrahim; former President of the BN Backbenchers' Club Shahrir Samad; former Parliamentary Secretary in the MFA, Ahmad Shabery Cheek; and former Chief Minister of Selangor and current UMNO Information Chief Muhammad Muhammad Taib. Zaid has been appointed a Minister in the PM's Department and charged with overseeing reforms in the judiciary. Shahrir Samad, who also served as the outgoing chairman of Parliament's Public Accounts Committee, has been appointed as the new Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs. Shabery Cheek is a relatively young and seemingly progressive parliamentarian who could bring a new approach to the Ministry of Information.  Muhammad, a long-term UMNO insider and power player, has returned to federal politics as the Minister of Rural Development. Party, Race and Gender 8. (SBU) Although the new cabinet saw the number of ministries reduced by one to 27, the number of cabinet ministers remained unchanged at 32, with UMNO Malay ministers not only occupying the large majority of the seats but also the key cabinet portfolios.  Out of the 32 member cabinet, UMNO holds 23 positions, followed by MCA with 4, and MIC, Sabah's PBS and UPKO, and Sarawak's SUPP and PBB each with one.  Old-time UMNO stalwarts continue to hold the most important portfolios of Finance I and II (PM Abdullah and Nor Yakcop), Defense (DPM Najib), Internal Security/Home Affairs (former FM Syed Hamid Albar), Agriculture (Mustapha Mohamad), and International Trade/Industry (UMNO VP Muhyiddin).  Former Culture Minister Rais Yatim, not known for his dynamism, has been appointed the new Minister of Foreign Affairs. 9.  (SBU) The racial breakdown of the cabinet includes 23 Malays (those of UMNO), five Chinese, and one each from the Indian, Kadazan-Dusun and Iban-Dayak Communities.  The number of cabinet positions represented by Sabah (non-UMNO) and Sarawak Members of Parliament remain unchanged with two cabinet portfolios from each state, despite East Malaysia's contribution of one-third of BN's seats in parliament.  From Sabah, both the non-UMNO cabinet positions are held by leaders from the indigenous Kadazan-Dusun community, while from Sarawak, one is held by a Chinese Sarawakian and the other by a leader from the indigenous Iban-Dayak community. Except for Melaka and Perlis, all other states had representatives in the cabinet with Johor having the largest representation with seven ministers, followed by Pahang and Selangor with four each. 10.  (SBU) There are only two women in the cabinet-- one each from UMNO and MCA.  This compares to three women in Abdullah's previous cabinet. Whither support for Najib? 11.  (C) Prior to the cabinet announcement, observers speculated about the involvement of Deputy Prime Minister Najib in the cabinet making, but at first glance the new cabinet does not appear to strengthen Najib's hand.  The cabinet removes some long-time Mahathir cronies, notably Jamaluddin Jarjis and Tengku Adnan Mansor, and consequently two close allies of Najib, given Mahathir's backing of Najib over Abdullah.  Of course, Najib retains the key Defense portfolio, and another important member of his camp, Education Minister and UMNO Youth chief Hishammuddin, remains in place.  We have not identified other Najib supporters newly included in the cabinet.  Speculation has already begun in opposition circles that Abdullah has resisted efforts to strengthen Najib ahead of the UMNO leadership elections. 12.  (C) Abdullah, who boasted of selecting only honorable, uncorrupted ministers, was forced at his live March 18 press conference to field pointed questions from the journalists regarding his reappointment of Najib as DPM.  One reporter specifically asked Abdullah to explain Najib's re-appointment given the frequent allegations of wrongdoing in military contracts (ref E). Abdullah, initially taken aback by the question, responded that "there is no proof that Najib is involved in any corrupt activities.  People can make all kinds of allegations, but what is important is that there is no evidence of that."  (Comment: Abdullah's reappointment of Najib as DPM was a foregone conclusion, given Najib's position as Deputy President of UMNO.  Najib faces public and private criticism for allegedly profiting greatly from the Sukhoi jet and Scorpene submarine purchases, and for rumored ties to the Razak Baginda murder case.  End Comment). Comment 13.  (C) After the election debacle, Prime Minister Abdullah stated that he understood many Malaysians were not satisfied with his first administration.  Abdullah, however, will have a difficult time presenting the new cabinet as a platform for change in response to voters' desertion of the National Front.  Despite the appointment of Zaid Ibrahim and Shahrir Samad, two noted reformists, and possibly Shabery Cheek, there is little other initial indication that Abdullah has broken the status quo.  The majority of appointees are long-time UMNO insiders who have benefitted from the system, not challenged it.  The states of Sabah and Sarawak have not gained any significant influence in the cabinet, despite their critical role in voting in roughly one-third of BN's parliamentary seats.  De facto opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has already spoken publicly of his desire to woo BN's East Malaysia partners into the opposition, and thus remove BN from power, and the cabinet line-up does not appear to cement East Malaysia's allegiance to Abdullah's National Front.  We still assess that PM Abdullah is not likely to be able to remain in office beyond the next UMNO elections (septel), and as challenges to Abdullah's authority continue so do rumors of plans to remove him even sooner than the UMNO vote.  This cabinet is best viewed as an interim line-up until UMNO has settled its looming leadership question.  End Comment. New Cabinet Line-Up 14.  (U) The new cabinet is presented below.  Septel provides more detail about changes in the portfolios.   Prime Minister: Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Deputy Prime Minister: Najib Tun Razak   Ministers in the Prime Minister's Department: Bernard Dompok Nazri Aziz Ahmad Zahid Hamidi Mohd Zaid Ibrahim Amirsham Abdul Aziz   Deputy Ministers in the Prime Minister's Department: Johari Baharom Dr Mashitah Ibrahim K. Devamany Hassan Malik   Finance Minister - Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Second Finance Minister - Nor Mohamed Yakcop Deputies - Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah, Kong Cho Ha   Defense Minister - Najib Tun Razak Deputy - Abu Seman Yusop   Internal Security and Home Affairs Minister - Syed Hamid Albar Deputies - Chor Chee Heong, Senator Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh   Housing and Local Government Minister - Ong Ka Chuan Deputies - Robert Lau , Hamzah Zainuddin   Works Minister - Mohd Zin Mohamad Deputy- Yong Khoon Seng   Energy, Water and Communications Minister - Shaziman Abu Mansor Deputy- Joseph Salang Gandum   Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Minister - Mustapa Mohamed Deputy - Rohani Abdul Karim   International Trade and Industry Minister - Muhyiddin Yassin Deputies- Loh Wei Keong, Jacob Dungau Sagan   Foreign Affairs Minister - Dr. Rais Yatim Deputy- Tunku Azlan Abu Bakar   Education Minister - Hishammuddin Hussein Deputies - Wee Ka Siong, Razali Ismail   Higher Education Minister - Khaled Nordin Deputies - Khoo Kok Choong, Idris Harun   Transport Minister - Ong Tee Keat Deputy - Anifah Aman   Human Resources Minister - S. Subramaniam Deputy- Noraini Ahmad   Women, Family and Community Development Minister- Dr Ng Yen Yen Deputy- Noriah Kasnon   National Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister- Shafie Apdal Deputy- Teng Boon Soon   Science, Technology and Innovation Minister- Dr Maximus Ongkili Deputy- Fadilah Yusof   Entrepreneurial and Cooperative Development Minister - Noh Omar Deputy- Saiffuddin Abdullah   Natural Resources and Environment Minister - Douglas Unggah Embas Deputy - Abu Ghapur Salleh   Rural and Regional Development Minister - Muhammad Muhd Taib Deputy- Joseph Kurup   Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister - Shahrir Samad Deputy - Jelaing Mersat   Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister - Peter Chin Fah Kui Deputy- Senator A. Kohilan   Youth and Sports Minister - Ismail Sabri Yaacob Deputy - Wee Jack Seng   Health Minister - Liow Tiong Lai Deputy- Dr. Abdul Latiff Ahmad   Information Minister - Ahmad Shabery Cheek Deputy- Tan Lian Hoe   Tourism Minister - Azalina Othman Deputy - Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Abu Taib   Federal Territories Minister - Zulhasnan Rafique Deputy- M. Saravanan SHEAR (March 2008)

WIKILEAKS: POST-ELECTION VIEWS FROM EAST MALAYSIA Posted: 28 Oct 2011 05:42 PM PDT Dominic told us Anwar must win the trust of Sabahans through action and not words. The burden is on Anwar to show he is no longer a Muslim fundamentalist. Sabahans mistrust peninsular-based parties because of their experience with the United Malay National Organization (UMNO) after the party gained entry into Sabah. Sabahans voted on the merits of individual opposition candidates and not for their parties. Sarawakians accepted DAP, which focuses on political issues. However, they distrust both Anwar's People's Justice Party (PKR) and the Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS). THE CORRIDORS OF POWER Raja Petra Kamarudin Classified By: Classified By: POLITICAL SECTION CHIEF MARK D. CLARK, RE ASON 1.4 (B AND D). Summary 1. (C)  East Malaysians, whose support in the March 8 election provided Prime Minister Abdullah with the necessary majority to form the new government, are closely watching what opposition parties do with their newly won states, especially Penang, according to our contacts in Sabah and Sarawak on March 14. If they are successful, the opposition parties could make significant gains in East Malaysia during the next election.  A journalist speculated that East Malaysia would have voted for the opposition if it had known how well the opposition would fare on the peninsula.  The fact that East Malaysian parliamentary seats are now essential for Abdullah's National Front government has generated high expectations in Sabah and Sarawak of stronger representation in the Prime Minister's cabinet.  Given the ruling National Front's (BN) vulnerabilities on the peninsula, the Prime Minister cannot afford political missteps in Sabah and Sarawak as he struggles to remain in power.  End Summary. View from Sabah 2.  (C) We spoke on March 14 with contacts in the East Malaysia states of Sabah and Sarawak to find out what people are saying about the election.  Jaswendar Kaur, a journalist for the government-influenced New Strait Times (NST), told poloff that if Sabah's general election were held 3-4 days after the peninsula's and its strong opposition showing, Sabah would have gone with the opposition.  She said people, especially from rural communities, remember when Sabah voted against BN in the early 1990s.  Afterwards, the federal government froze Sabah out of federal funding until the next general election as punishment.  Not willing to be the lone voice, Sabahans voted BN.  However when combined, opposition candidates won the popular vote.  Within Sabah, the opposition parties lacked the cooperation achieved in West Malaysia.  As a result, many of the election races had multiple candidates vying against a BN opponent.  As in prior elections, allegations of vote rigging in key races were widespread, including allegations that some election officials were complicit in the rigging.  Sabahans are watching how the opposition will run the key state of Penang to measure the opposition's effectiveness. 3. (C) Dominic Lim, Coordinator for the Catholic Diocese's Human Development Committee told poloff that if the opposition successfully runs Penang, BN "will lose" its hold on Sabah.  However, Sabahans are slow to embrace Anwar Ibrahim.  He is widely remembered in Sabah from his days as Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister, when he spoke disparagingly about Sabah.  Dominic told us Anwar must win the trust of Sabahans through action and not words.  The burden is on Anwar to show he is no longer a Muslim fundamentalist.  Sabahans mistrust peninsular-based parties because of their experience with the United Malay National Organization (UMNO) after the party gained entry into Sabah. Sabahans voted on the merits of individual opposition candidates and not for their parties.  A Sabah-based opposition party could expect to find strong support, but as contacts noted, Sabah lacks a strong leader capable of uniting Sabahans across ethnicities (Kadazan, Chinese, and Malay).  The key issues dominating Sabah's local politics during the election continued to be the status of thousands of illegal aliens residing in Sabah and land being seized by businesses, sometimes in violation of indigenous customary law. View from Sarawak 4.  (C) According to Father Simon Poh, Chancellor to Catholic Archbishop John Ha, Sarawak's voters split mostly along urban and rural lines.  Urban voters leaned towards the opposition Democratic Action Party (DAP) and rural voters, dependent upon federal government funding for development, voted BN. However, a common consensus of our contacts is that the people want change.  If the opposition could cooperate in Sarawak, they could make significant gains in future elections.  Sarawakians accepted DAP, which focuses on political issues.  However, they distrust both Anwar's People's Justice Party (PKR) and the Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS).  Sarawakians perceive both parties using religion for political gain and fear they will bring an Islamic agenda to Sarawak.  (Note: PAS does not have a presence in Sarawak and DAP and PKR are not on good terms with each other in the state.  End Note.)  The Catholic Church, while publicly neutral, privately favors a change from BN and advised parishioners to "vote their conscience."  Sarawakians, like Sabahans, are closely watching how the opposition will run their newly controlled states. 5.  (C) Nancy Nais (protect), journalist for NST, told poloff that vote buying was widespread in the rural areas, with alleged payments ranging from about USD30-130 (50-200 Malaysian Ringgit).  She also described how during the campaign period, UMNO sent censors to the editorial offices for NST, and other government-influenced mainstream press. The teams were empowered to edit or stop publication of all articles.  After the election and because of the opposition's strong gains, the NST's senior editors distributed a memorandum informing all NST offices they "must now provide balanced reporting" of the opposition. Comment 6.  (C) The people in East Malaysia are awakening to their new political leverage, holding 51 of BN's 138 parliamentary seats.  East Malaysia's consequently anticipate a greater number and more important cabinet positions.  Just as important as the number of cabinet positions will be who fills them.  Sabahans and Sarawakians will fill cheated once more by the peninsula if ethnic Malays, a minority in Malaysian Borneo, dominate the Cabinet appointments allocated to East Malaysia.  Given BN's vulnerabilities on the peninsula, the Prime Minister cannot afford political missteps in Sabah and Sarawak as he struggles to remain in power. KEITH (March 2008)

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