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Malaysia Today - Your Source of Independent News

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• LRT job that’s messy, shoddy and unfriendly
• MCMC Investigates Yasin Regarding Interview With Radio Free Malaysia
• SWP in cahoots with Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim? Here’s my personal take on the matter.
• Parliament To Be Dissolved Tomorrow?
• Bilakah DAP akan diharamkan?
• A day late and dollar short sums up PKR’s civil service carrot
• Manifestos must tackle real issues
• Will Pakatan sweep KL clean?
• Reckoning for Pakatan in Klang - Pt 1
• From rags to riches
• Latheefa Koya blows her top
• Shared memories at the core
• Mengupas hujah
• Kedah DAP going alone if demands not met
• Calon Azizah strategi singkir MB?
• Kedah DAP upset with Anwar over Alor Star MP candidacy
• Don't take yourselves as victims: Daim
• Malaysian Opposition Politics for Dummies
• CheguBard mahu masuk UMNO…tolonglah pujuk dia‏
• Nalla subpoenas Karpal, Ummi and Azizan
• Bishop: What sort of justice is this?
• Mahfuz: BN rancang huru-hara 13 Mei?
• Perang dingin jawatan MB Selangor...
• GE13: DAP slams PKR for being ‘insensible’
• GE13: Wooing the fence-sitters
• Ustaz Rujhan revelations anger PAS
• Muhyiddin, the other Prime-Minister-in-Waiting
• Anwar, Who is Sabah CM?
• Sulu army gets reinforcements?
• Malaysia at (yet another) crossroads
• The promise of political violence
• Suluks next big wave after Hindraf's makkal sakthi
• Red flag went up in August 2012
• Are Malays now a wounded civilization?
• Attention Non-Partisan and Undecided Voters!
• Why we must vote
• Gambling lords, too, make big money in Kelantan
• `Battlegrounds will be in Dayak areas'
• Pakatan can win 12 more federal seats in Election 2013, says Kit Siang
• GE13: The battle starts in the cyber world
• GE13: Taking on the opposition in their home ground
• ‘The case for change is preponderant’
• Rosmah and black magic? No way!
• Waytha’s conditon today -21st day of his Hunger Viratham
• Desperate for Indian Votes, Pakatan Plays Dirty!!
• Sabah: Land Below the Winds of Change
• SDNU openly champions Native Customary Rights and Lands!
• Dompok adamant, wants to surrender IC
• `Battlegrounds will be in Dayak areas'
• Kelantan after dark

LRT job that’s messy, shoddy and unfriendly Posted: 01 Apr 2013 01:19 PM PDT   Despite public complaints, work on the LRT extension in the Klang Valley is proceeding with scant regard for safety. Syed Nadzri, FMT  Our worst fears about the way the construction of the light rapid transit (LRT) extension in the Klang Valley is going on came true last Friday when a motorist was crushed to death by a falling beam. A Vijayaingam was passing through the construction site on the road leading to Subang Airport when building equipment being hoisted by a crane gave way and fell on his car. Another car was also badly hit by the falling beams causing its driver to be seriously injured. Whether the accident could have been averted or whether there had been breach of duty of care is for the courts and the legal experts to decide. But work on the project has been shoddy. The contractor, according to news reports, has been suspended by Syarikat Prasarana Negara Bhd, which is undertaking the extension work on behalf of the government. But what is most worrying to the ordinary folk is the utterly messy work that has been going on, with almost complete disregard to the convenience of others. You hear the complaints every day. A few days ago, the concrete fencing of a house in SS18, not far from where construction was going on in full swing, collapsed as a result of the vibration of the drilling. And just hours before last Friday's most unfortunate incident, another lament was heard – from no less than a person about to perform Friday prayers. So do take note, contractor and the authorities. The person was furious that the contractor, in carrying out his job, had completely sealed off the middle span of Persiaran Jengka, denying pedestrians to cross the street from SS17 to get to Masjid Darul Ehsan in SS15. He was not alone of course in expressing disgust. Read more at: http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/opinion/2013/04/02/lrt-job-that%E2%80%99s-messy-shoddy-and-unfriendly/

MCMC Investigates Yasin Regarding Interview With Radio Free Malaysia Posted: 01 Apr 2013 01:18 PM PDT   (Media Selangorku) - The popular singer who is also the Ambassador for the Keadilan Youth Brigade (AMK), Yasin Sulaiman was called to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) regarding his interview with Radio Free Malaysia (RFM) at the Sultan Abdul Samad Building in Kuala Lumpur today. Yasin's recorded statement by MCMC Officer, Iqbal Ikhwandi Mat Zin, to help investigations on RFM which allegedly does not a licence or a permit from the MCMC. Accompanying him was AMK Chief, Samsul Iskandar Mf Akin. In the meantime, Samsul when met by reporters stated that Yasin's presence was only as a witness to help assist investigations on the said radio station. On 25 March, RFM interview Yasin on the Reformation song which has been made the AMK campaign song throughout the country and also his hopes on the uprising of voices of Malaysians. Yasin said that he was interviewed by telephone on the radio station which is based in London, United Kingdom and did not suspect that the radio station was facing problems as claimed by the MCMC. "It is nothing much really, I did not know that this radio (station) was having problems with the government, eight days ago they interviewed me via telephone and asked about the Reformation song and my hopes for Malaysia," he told reporters. Meanwhile, Yasin and Samsul are of the opinion that press freedom must be given to all practitioners of the media to deliver information to the people rather than block them with various acts and laws. When it was launched several weeks ago, RFM also interviewed some famous political leaders like Opposition Leader, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim about the defamation imposed upon him.

SWP in cahoots with Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim? Here’s my personal take on the matter. Posted: 01 Apr 2013 12:42 PM PDT   being Vernon  Rumours have been flying rampant. Let's look at the facts. SWP has been desperately trying to convince everyone, through the newspapers, that its membership is allegedly growing from strength to strength. (See http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/01/27/swp-growing-fast-says-larry/) PKR revealed that several PKR members received SWP membership cards without even having applied to become members. (See http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2013/3/27/sarawak/12891734&sec=sarawak) SWP explained this away as a technical glitch; that family members had applied on behalf of these other members, and that PKR members who received the cards may return them.    Radio Kenyalang, SWP's mouth-piece, has allegedly heavily hinted that Datuk Sng has made a deal with DSAI. The contents of the alleged deal were not divulged but it has been strongly suggested that at the last moment DSAI will ask PKR candidates in Lubok Antu, Selangau and Julau to stand down and give way to SWP. In return, SWP will guarantee DSAI three seats, and possibly finance the other PKR seats. This is all just allegations, mind you, and I am merely repeating what is common talk in the coffee-shops. At the same time, rumours are flying across the state that Nicholas Bawin Anggat, PKR potential candidate for Lubok Antu, has been allegedly 'bought' by SWP. Who started the rumour we cannot be certain but whose interest would it be in to start such a rumour? Who would benefit from Nicholas pulling out of the race in Lubok Antu? The SWP candidate for Lubok Antu, perhaps? And who could that be?  Read more at: http://beingvernon.blogspot.com/2013/04/swp-in-cahoots-with-dato-seri-anwar.html

Parliament To Be Dissolved Tomorrow? Posted: 01 Apr 2013 12:34 PM PDT   (Astro Awani) - Dewan Rakyat is expected to be dissolved as early as tomorrow after the cabinet meeting in Putrajaya to make way for the 13th general election (GE13). The speculation is due a letter from the Prime Minister's Department directing all ministers attending the meeting to wear a dark lounge suit and a red tie for a group photography session, according to a report from Berita Harian today. This is a strong hint that it could be the final cabinet meeting before the Parliament's dissolution. Deputy Electoral Commission (EC) chairman Datuk Wan Ahmad Wan Omar said if the Parliament is dissolved tomorrow, the EC would call a special meeting as soon as possible to decide on the date of the nomination and polling day. Based on tradition, the minister will have photos taken with the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and his deputy Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin before the final meeting. The Parliament will then be announced by the Prime Minister after the meeting through a press conference.  The Prime Minister will also seek audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to get his majesty's consent for the dissolution of the Parliament. Few ministers also confirmed to Berita Harian that they have received the letter. They also did not reject the possibility of Najib announcing the dissolution of the Parliament after the meeting. Recently, the EC clarified that the actual date of the automatic dissolution of Parliament is April 30 and not April 28 as has been reported earlier. After its dissolution, the EC has 60 days to conduct a general election in order to form a new government.

Bilakah DAP akan diharamkan? Posted: 01 Apr 2013 12:23 PM PDT   Sebagaimana semua menunggu bila Parlimen hendak dibubarkan, maka semuanya menunggu bila pula DAP hendak diharamkan? Haji Subky Abdul Latif, TMI  RoS (Registrar of Societies) sudah mengingatkan supaya DAP mengadakan undi semula pemilihan pimpinan pusatnya jika tidak mahu dikenakan tindakan. Tindakan itu mungkin diharamkan. Dan pihak yang benci DAP memang mendesak supaya RoS membatalkan pendaftarannya. DAP setakat ini enggan mengadakan pemilihan semua pimpinannya. Ia telah memaklumkan sendiri berlaku salah kira atas keputusan pemilihan itu dan ia tidak dibetulkan. Tiada siapa tahu DAP melakukan kesilapan jika ia tidak memaklumkannya kepada umum. Sekarang semua menunggu bila RoS akan membatalkan pendaftaran DAP. Dalam waktu yang suntuk ini jika diharamkan, sulit sedikit baginya bagi mendaftarkan yang baru. DAP bersedia untuk diharamkan. Penasihatnya Lim Kit Siang menyatakan DAP sedia bertanding atas nama PAS dalam PRU13 ini. Dan reaksi Setiausaha Agung PAS, Datuk Mustapa Ali ialah PAS sedia memberi laluan. Soalnya sekarang bila RoS hendak mengharamkan DAP? Jika RoS sebuah agensi yang tegas dalam serba serbi, maka ia mesti haramkan DAP dengan segera sekurang-kurangnya sebelum hari penamaan calon. PAS sekarang dipercayai menunggu. Ia tidak mendoakan supaya DAP diharamkan, tetapi kalau diharamkan, maka ia satu cabaran yang menarik bagi menguji kematangan politik Pakatan Rakyat dalam suasana baru politik Malaysia sekarang. Semua akan menyaksikan pejuang Islam dalam PAS menawarkan kemudahan kepada sekutunya bagi membuktikan kemantapan dan kematangan kerjasamanya dan DAP pula di lihat berani menghadapi pengundi tradisinya untuk menggunakan lambang PAS, Bulan Penuh Purnama. Ia menguji kematangan pengundi bukan Islam mampu membuat perubahan untuk bersama PAS. Read more at: http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/opinion/article/bilakah-dap-akan-diharamkan/

A day late and dollar short sums up PKR’s civil service carrot Posted: 01 Apr 2013 12:21 PM PDT   "If you want to give me a pay hike because you think you can stop corruption, you are assuming that I am corrupt in the first place"  Daniel Ayathurai, The Malaysian Times Winning the civil service hearts and minds seems to be Pakatan's latest election strategy.  After a slew of perks, including unprecedented bonuses and salary revisions by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, the Pakatan Rakyat is getting , albeit a little late into the game.    Upping the stakes  in the race for support from the 1.5 million-strong civil service ahead of Election 2013, PKR proposed today an "anti-corruption" annual bonus for civil servants should the opposition win federal power. The Najib government has instituted salary revisions for the police, armed forces and civils servants over the last six months.  He has also thrown in a couple of bonuses during the main festivals in the country, especially during Hari Raya. PKR trade and industry bureau chairman Wong Chen claims that the PR's incentives " would help slash the country's corruption bill while enlisting the help of the civil service through dangling monetary incentives before them as motivation." Several civil servants, contacted by The Malaysian Times (TMT) described the Pakatan bait as "demeaning" as it assumed that all civil servants are corrupt. "if you want to give me a pay hike because you think you can stop corruption, you are assuming that I am corrupt in the first place," said Idris Yusof (not his real name). Another senior officer said that the move by Pakatan was merely imitating what the ruling BN had been doing all the while. "They are jumping on the bandwagon now. They realise too late that we have been working overtime to get the goods to the people for the last 55 years," said Tan Chee Leng (not real name). Meanwhile, Wong said the Pakatan incentive would be above the other attractive incentives that PR has already offered to workers in both public and private sectors, which include a RM1,100 wage floor and salary reviews every three years. However, analysts see that any further civil service increments could have inflationary effects and cancel out whatever was being given out. At current levels, inflation was controllable and money being pumped into the economy has been calculated to balance out any other negative factors. Najib is expected to call for elections by the end of the month in what many believe will be a bruising GE13. The BN is expected to win by a 2/3 majority, analysts say.-TMT

Manifestos must tackle real issues Posted: 01 Apr 2013 12:19 PM PDT   Focusing on the people's immediate wants and bypassing national issues reflect the BN leadership's lack of vision, wisdom and capabilities. Awang Abdillah, FMT A manifesto is a package of offers that a political party promises to deliver if chosen to be the next government. If the party is elected, then the manifesto should become its action blueprint for the next five years. We have seen past Barisan Nasional manifestos which made all sorts of promises, but little attention was paid to the nation's real problems. Take, for instance, the BN's manifesto for the 2008 general election. It promised all kinds of goods and services but failed to win the hearts and minds of the voters and this was visible when it lost its traditional two-thirds majority and five states to Pakatan Rakyat. Focusing on the people's immediate wants and bypassing national issues reflect the BN leadership's lack of vision, wisdom and capabilities. The 2008 BN manifesto, while setting the feel-good mood among the voters, did not guarantee BN votes. The people are now mature enough not to buy lies and stories. Since taking over the helm of the government in 2009, Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has failed to implement the plans and programmes spelt out in BN's 2008 election manifesto. His best shot now is to dish out instant goodies to the people to get their votes. His government claims that the ETP (Economic Transformation Programme) and the GTP (Government Transformation Programme) are on track to propel Malaysia to becoming a high-income /developed nation by 2020. But what have these programmes achieved in relation to the national issues? Manifesto must include real issues A true manifesto is one that spells out the current real national issues and measures to tackle them. Secondly, it must be a manifesto committed to delivering the essential goods and services to all races, and thirdly, to dish out the (instant) goodies to the people subject to the funds available. The manifesto must focus on the national issues such as the national debt, corruption, floods, security, poverty, oil royalty, development of infrastructure especially highways and roads in Sarawak and Sabah and cost of living. If these major ills can be tackled, both Pakatan Rakyat and BN need not worry about how much goodies they dish out. Read more at: http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/opinion/2013/04/02/manifestos-must-tackle-real-issues/

Will Pakatan sweep KL clean? Posted: 01 Apr 2013 12:16 PM PDT   There are obstacles against the opposition pact's determination to improve on its 2008 performance. Stanley Koh, FMT  Few political observers doubt that most of the 11 parliamentary seats in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur will go to Pakatan Rakyat in the coming election. But will the opposition pact do better than it did in 2008 and make a clean sweep? Some would say "Yes", considering the general perception that urban voters have become more anti-Barisan Nasional than they were when the last election was held. Furthermore, Pakatan needs only to capture one more seat – Setiawangsa – to make it a clean sweep. Seasoned observers are not so sure. They say there are obstacles standing in the way of Pakatan realising this particular dream, the most onerous being BN's ability, through its collaboration with the Election Commission, to manipulate postal voting. Indeed, the reason most often given for Pakatan's 2008 defeat in Setiawangsa is that postal ballots account for a large share of the votes in the constituency. According to 2012 figures, they number 12,432 out of 49,958 votes. Other Kuala Lumpur constituencies with postal votes exceeding 5,000 are Segambut (6,517), Bukit Bintang (5,284) and Bandar Tun Razak (5,175). Batu and Wangsa Maju have 3,400 and 3,220 respectively. Secondly, according to Cheras MP Tan Kok Wai of DAP, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and other authorities tend to sideline Pakatan representatives in consultations regarding the social and economic development of the city. "Our elected representatives have been marginalised and kept in the dark on infrastructure development in Kuala Lumpur, including the budgetary planning involved," he complained. He said these authorities were effectively denying the Pakatan MPs the right to represent their constituents. "Opposition MPs are only accorded a token representation and are denied opportunities of effective representation by both DBKL and the Federal Territory Ministry." Nevertheless, Tan added, there were encouraging signs from the electorate that inspire the opposition to push hard. "We are encouraged by the fact that urban voters are now more IT-savvy, more aware than their counterparts in the rural and semi-urban constituencies," he said. "This is particularly true in areas where the Chinese form the majority of voters, notably Kepong, Seputeh and Cheras. "But since 2008, the opposition has also made great inroads among urban Malay voters, especially the younger ones. "I believe the voting trend is continuously changing in the opposition's favour although it is still an uphill task in the coming election. "KL urbanites are more politically savvy now. They want greater changes in the political landscape. Many want a stronger two-party system. I think the changing political consciousness among the urban Malays is a positive sign." Read more at: http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/opinion/2013/04/02/will-pakatan-sweep-kl-clean/

Reckoning for Pakatan in Klang - Pt 1 Posted: 01 Apr 2013 12:13 PM PDT   (fz.com) - Even though Pakatan Rakyat (PR) has a good chance of retaining the Klang parliamentary seat in the upcoming 13th General Election, its grip on the three state seats which fall under the constituency is slippery.   Essentially, the main weakness of the Pakatan representatives in this area is that they have not been servicing their constituencies effectively, say political leaders with an intimate knowledge of the situation.   A more damaging issue is the case of a Klang municipal councillor who had allegedly misused the letterhead of the state exco member Ronnie Liu to award contracts to the councillor's friends and family. Liu is also the assembly member for Pandamaran.   The consequence of this alleged folly is not lost on Klang MCA division chief Datuk Dr Teh Kim Poo, who told fz.com: "Ronnie Liu does not hold sway over Pandamaran voters today. The talk of the town today is that if Ronnie Liu come again this time, sure die."   In July 2010, it was reported that Klang Municipal Councillor Tee Boon Hock had allegedly misused Liu's official Selangor exco member letterhead to secure contracts for his friends and a family member.   Tee had claimed Liu had authorised him as his special assistant to use the letterhead, which prompted DAP to also investigate Liu on the allegations.   The DAP disciplinary committee had later sacked Tee in September 2010.   Teh had a similar prediction for Kota Alam Shah assembly member M Manoharan.   "Manoharan is again inviting himself to be arrested," said Teh, referring to Manoharan's detention under the now-defunct Internal Security Act in 2009.    "Every speech he has made has been about sensitive racial issues. He is dreaming to win again in prison," he said.   Manoharan has been seen to actively champion Indian community issues, which might cause him to lose some favour among members of other communities.   Also weighing against Manoharan is his record of saying the wrong things, such as the disparaging remarks he made about badminton ace Datuk Lee Chong Wei on Twitter for losing out on the gold medal in last year's London Olympics Games.   Manoharan had apologised for making the remarks but considerable damage had already been done.   If anything, the outlook for Badrul Hisham Abdullah, the Port Klang assembly member, looks even more bleak. The local people have been complaining loudly that Badrul Hisham has gone incognito since he won the seat in 2008 on a PKR ticket.   Pressure had grown on the PKR leadership to boot Badrul Hisham out of the party, but he pre-empted such action by quitting in 2009. Currently, he is identified as a BN-friendly independent, but his political future looks gloomy.   All this is putting a strain on Klang MP Charles Santiago, under whose constituency the three state seats fall. Charles, from the DAP, has been left to pick up the slack from the three assembly members and help to solve local issues like drainage and flooding problems.   Read more at: http://fz.com/content/reckoning-pakatan-klang-pt-1

From rags to riches Posted: 01 Apr 2013 12:11 PM PDT   THERE is a wide spread belief in this country that many crimes are committed by people of Indian ethnicity. I have been asked this question and it often goes like this, "why are so many Indians involved in crime uh?"   Selvi Gopal, fz.com    Well, I don't really have police statistics on hand or even trust it to give an adequate answer to that question but Hindraf, or Hindu Rights Action Force, has indicated that crime has indeed become a local Indian problem.   According to statistics provided by Hindraf, which was reported by New Delhi based think tank Observer Research Foundation, about 50% of all convicts in prison in 2004 and 41% of beggars in the country were Indians; and 15% of juvenile delinquents are Indians.   They also reported that the percentage of Indian civil servants fell from 40% in 1957 to less than 2% in 2005.   Interesting, the percentage drop in jobs in the civil service is made up by the percentage increase in crime rate.   Anyone who reads the newspapers on a regular basis would know that the crimes committed by members of the local Indian community are visible crimes; the obvious gang related violent crimes, the robberies and burglaries and crimes perpetuated within the community.   But what is often overlooked by those quick to point the finger at this community are the unseen crimes. The crimes committed by the loan sharks, the drug dealers, the vice groups and the human traffickers who force women and children to commit sex crimes.    And let's not forget about white collar crimes committed by corporate figures who rob shareholders and taxpayers through share manipulations and kickbacks.    And then there are industrial zones that are unused and feedlot companies that get such large loans that they don't know what to do all that money so the end up buying luxury cars and condos.   Crime is often associated with the poor and disenfranchised but rarely with the rich and powerful.  Crimes committed by some Indian Malaysians follows a well established path that's paved in poverty and discrimination. Read more at: http://fz.com/content/rags-riches

Latheefa Koya blows her top Posted: 01 Apr 2013 12:06 PM PDT   (FMT) - On YouTube, the PKR lawyer is seen getting infuriated with a NRD official who refused to give her the MyKad forms. A row between PKR lawyer Latheefa Koya and a National Registration Department (NRD) officer was uploaded on YouTube recently. The video shows Latheefa getting angry with the NRD official who refused to give her the MyKad forms for the 48 applicants who were at the Klang NRD on March 22. Throughout the video, Latheefa was seen asking several times for the MyKad form. "Just give me the MyKad forms. These are all straight-forward cases. I don't want to debate with you, just give me the MyKad forms. "The faster this can be settled, the earlier we can all go home, so just give me the form," demanded Latheefa to a seemingly oblivious NRD official. "Right now we just want the MyKad forms. We want the identification card forms and not the citizenship application forms, do you know the difference? If you know the difference, just give us the forms. "You see here, I've given you one sample [a document]. I want to show you that we have checked all the particulars, we don't come here foolhardily, we have checked everything, we know their rights," she said to the official who is seen just shuffling the documents. After asking the NRD official for the umpteenth time for the MyKad forms, the official finally went to take 30 forms as requested by Latheefa. In the meantime, chants of "we want the form" could be heard in the background. After the official returned empty-handed, Latheefa began raising her voice at him. "We're not stupid, okay, all these people are poor, they've come here thousands of times and all of you just ask them to go home without even giving them the forms. "So why don't you just give us the MyKad forms? We will fill up the forms, and after that if you want to reject the applications, it's up to you," she told the official. Read more at: http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2013/04/01/latheefa-koya-blows-her-top/

Shared memories at the core Posted: 01 Apr 2013 12:03 PM PDT   (The Straits Times) - Perhaps my family narrative, along with those of other foreigners, benefits the core of the true-blue Singapore family, too. It gives emotional depth to the core that makes up what it means to be Singaporean citizens by birth.  When I visited the Clementi Mall library recently, a schoolgirl sitting at a desk at the entrance beckoned me over. She told me she was collecting memories of Singapore, and did I have any to share? At this open sesame, memories from over 20 years tumbled out. I saw the dark whip of a cobra on a jungle walk, I saw smiles at an East Coast picnic, I wiped a tear away as a neighbour sobbed over the death of a pet. And then I wondered, why were they of interest to this schoolgirl? She explained that she was collecting memories for the Singapore Memory Project, a nationwide scheme to capture recollections related to Singapore. People, organisations, companies and groups could submit their memories to a website or mobile phone app (go to www.singaporememory.sg/ for details), and the National Library Board had set up "memory collection points", as it called them, at its 24 libraries. I paused. Perhaps this youthful collector of memories - what an important task, what a wonderful job title - was too enthusiastic in seeking mine. I explained that I was a foreigner on an Employment Pass, and that my memories might not be wanted for the Singapore-specific project. But she said mine were welcome, and painstakingly wrote down my offering. If only I could remember what it was that I remembered - but such is the fleeting nature of memory. Still, at least this now-lost memory has been recorded somewhere, among the five million personal memories that the project aims to collect by 2015. There are two timely backdrops to this memory-collecting. One is a New York Times piece that The Straits Times ran on March 23, which looked at what makes for happy families. It found that one thing is a strong family narrative - the stories you tell your children about things such as where your parents came from and how they met. It cited research by two Americans at Emory University who found that the more children knew about their family's history, the stronger their sense of control over their lives, the higher their self-esteem and the more successfully they believed their families functioned. This was especially so in terms of being able to be resilient in the face of life's challenges. This is linked to the second reason why the Singapore Memory Project is a timely one - the talking point of retaining a Singaporean "core", as if this were some impermeable centre of steel around which lighter weights spin. This core doesn't seem to be that solid, given the introspection and self-doubt about Singapore's identity as a nation that has emerged in public debate. This is especially so in the light of the White Paper's controversial population figure of 6.9 million in 2030, and the Our Singapore Conversation stimulating discussion of what it means to be Singaporean. What might make that core more solid? I don't mean just in terms of more "true-blue" Singaporeans, but in a national identity that is more concrete. One way is through exercises such as the Singapore Memory Project, where everyone is regarded as having something to contribute to the narrative of the wider idea of a Singapore Family, whoever that might be. Read more at: http://www.straitstimes.com/the-big-story/case-you-missed-it/story/shared-memories-the-core-20130402

Mengupas hujah Posted: 31 Mar 2013 08:33 PM PDT Now, using what many of you will now say is my warped logic (and you say so only because you cannot find any argument to counter this argument), if the NEP should be abolished because, as you say, it is being abused by those people in high places to benefit themselves, should not other things be banned as well for that very same reason? NO HOLDS BARRED Raja Petra Kamarudin I am sure, as a Malaysian citizen who should be able to speak the national language, Bahasa Malaysia, you know what 'mengupas hujah' means. If you don't then you really do not deserve Malaysian citizenship. I mean, even here in the UK, before you are given British citizenship, you need to first pass your English test. And if you can't speak English then you do not get British citizenship. Anyway, I would like to kupas some of your hujah that you have bandied about the last few weeks. One of these hujah, of course, is regarding the New Economic Policy (NEP) where you have concluded that the NEP is being abused by certain people in power and hence should be abolished. Actually, that is not something new. I and other members of the Malay Chamber of Commerce have said the same thing 30 years ago back in the mid-1980s. Some of you who are younger than 30 were not born yet at that time while you who are in your 40s were still in primary school in the 1980s and, as the Malays would say, belum sunat lagi. So perish the thought if you feel clever about coming out with that statement. You are not the inventor of that statement and neither are you the first to utter it. It is an old and expired statement that we used to throw into Umno's face and is now as basi as the word Umnoputera, which I can proudly claim to have been the inventor of during a seminar around the same time, the mid-1980s, that I wrote about a couple of weeks ago. So you want the NEP to be abolished and your reason for wanting so is because it is being abused by certain people in high places. That is the same reason being applied by the anti-gun lobbyists in the United States. They want guns banned because they say that the US has a very high rate of deaths/murder due to guns. The pro-gun lobbyists, however, oppose this and say that it is their right to bear arms, as guaranteed in the American Constitution, and that it is not guns but people that kill. In other words, their argument is that people and not guns are bad. And it is people and not guns that kill. So why should guns be banned because of the fault of the people. You should not punish guns for the crime committed by people.  Cars kill more people every year than guns do. Hence should not cars be banned for causing the death of people? Why should guns be banned but cars are not banned? Incidentally, in the US, there are 12.3 road fatalities per 100,000 inhabitants compared to only 3.59 per 100,000 inhabitants for the UK. In Malaysia it is 24.1 per 100,000 inhabitants, twice that in the US and about seven times that of the UK. By 2015, it is expected that traffic accident related deaths would be lower than gun related deaths in the US because of a large drop in traffic accident deaths. (SEE CHART BELOW). Okay, in the US, cars kill more people than guns do and yet you want to ban guns but not cars. And since your argument for wanting to ban guns is because guns kill, then cars should also be banned for that very same reason. Now, using what many of you will now say is my warped logic (and you say so only because you cannot find any argument to counter this argument), if the NEP should be abolished because, as you say, it is being abused by those people in high places to benefit themselves, should not other things be banned as well for that very same reason? Many of you say that the Malaysian Election Commission (SPR) is being abused by people in power to remain in power. The general elections are not fair, you say. There is rampant fraud and blatant gerrymandering. Chinese-majority seats see voters as high as 120,000 while Malay-majority seats see voters as low as 5,000. Hence 70% of the seats are Malay-dominated seats while the non-Malay seats are in the minority. The ruling party needs to win only 45% of the votes to remain in power while the opposition needs to win 60% or so of the votes to form the federal government. That is what you say and you are not terribly wrong. The election process is being abused, just like the NEP is, by those in power to immorally and unfairly stay in power. The people/voters are being cheated by those who walk in the corridors of power. The election process merely legitimises an illegitimate government. Hence, since there is rampant and blatant abuse of the election process, just like in the case of the NEP, should not general elections be abolished, just like what you propose for the NEP? Anything that is being abused by those in power for their own benefit should be abolished, as what you argue. We all lament about the Malaysian Cabinet. Those members of the Cabinet, the Ministers, abuse their power and perpetuate corruption to enrich themselves, their families, and their friends. Malaysia, it seems, has lost billions because of this corruption and abuse of power. And it is still going on even as you read this. The latest is the 'nationalisation' of the IPPs to the tune of tens of billions of Ringgit. Do we, therefore, need a Cabinet? Should we not abolish the Cabinet and save the country hundreds of billions of Ringgit? If we abolish the Cabinet and there are no more Ministers, who is going to run the country? I do not know who is going to run the country but for use we will be saving hundreds of billions because there will be no more Ministers to abuse their power and corruptly spend the country's money. Another two very abused agencies are the PDRM and MACC, Malaysia's police force and anti-corruption commission. As what many of you have said, these two agencies appear to be serving Umno's interest rather than serving the nation. Hence these two agencies serve no purpose other than to keep Umno in power. If Malaysia did not have any PDRM and MACC then there would be no one to serve Umno. And maybe then we will be able to kick Umno out. So it is in the interest of the ABU movement that we abolish the PDRM and MACC. What will Malaysia do if it did not have a police force or an anti-corruption commission? I am not sure what we would do but for sure it may be easier to kick out Umno without a police force and an anti-corruption commission that props up Umno. And now we come to the legal system (the courts and the AG Chambers) and all those other agencies that serve Umno's interest...and not forgetting the worst one of all, religion.

Kedah DAP going alone if demands not met Posted: 31 Mar 2013 06:47 PM PDT (NST) - Kedah DAP is going alone in the coming general election if its demand for two parliamentary seats and six state constituencies is not met by the Pakatan Rakyat leadership. Its chief Lee Guan Aik said the party was prepared to have three-cornered fights with Parti Keadilan Rakyat and Barisan Nasional should the Pakatan Rakyat leadership ignores its demand to contest in the Alor Setar and Padang Serai parliamentary constituencies. "The same goes with the Bakar Bata, Derga, Bakar Arang, Gurun and Lunas state seats.   "Of course, I will defend my Kota Darulaman state seat," he told reporters here yesterday.  A very upset Lee said he was appalled with opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for naming Kedah PKR legal bureau chief Gooi Hsiao Leung to contest the Alor Setar parliamentary constituency during a ceramah at Taman Berjaya here on Sunday night. "He can say whatever he wants to say for the Alor Setar parliamentary seat.  "As far as Kedah DAP is concerned, the seat allocation in Kedah for Pakatan Rakyat has yet to be finalised," he said.       Incidentally, PKR had also named one of its vice-presidents N. Surendran to contest in Padang Serai. However, Lee did not comment on the matter.   Meanwhile, Kedah PKR chief Datuk Wan Salleh Wan Isa, when contacted, said Lee should not kick up a fuss over Anwar's announcement. He said Gooi's candidacy had been decided by the Pakatan Rakyat presidential council and that the decision was final.  "Lee should just heed the council's decision because the Pakatan Rakyat leadership knows what is best for Alor Setar.   "He should stop criticising because it is not good for us as we plan to take over Putrajaya," he said.

Calon Azizah strategi singkir MB? Posted: 31 Mar 2013 05:28 PM PDT (Sinar Harian) - Spekulasi Presiden PKR, Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail sebagai calon menteri besar jika Pakatan Rakyat (PR) kekal memerintah Selangor selepas Pilihan Raya Umum Ke 13 (PRU13) didakwa satu strategi untuk menyingkirkan Menteri Besar, Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim. Penganalisis politik, Prof Dr Jayum Jawan mendakwa, beliau tidak menolak kemungkinan Dr Wan Azizah diangkat sebagai calon menteri besar disebabkan kontroversi serta pertelagahan yang pernah dikaitkan antara Abdul Khalid dan Timbalan Presiden PKR, Azmin Ali. "Itu mungkin satu kaedah untuk menggantikan beliau (Abdul Khalid) selepas PRU13 jika PR kekal di Selangor. Takkan ketua parti menang di situ, orang lain memegang jawatan tertinggi dalam kerajaan." "Saya melihat itu sebagai satu langkah untuk menyingkirkan Abdul Khalid dan digantikan dengan Wan Azizah (tiada siapa boleh cakap banyak kerana beliau adalah presiden parti)," katanya. Beliau berkata demikian ketika diminta mengulas mengenai desas desus berkaitan kemungkinan Dr Wan Azizah bakal dilantik menerajui kerajaan Selangor bagi menggantikan Abdul Khalid jika PR masih mengekalkan kuasa di negeri itu. Bagaimanapun kata Jayum, Dr Wan Azizah tidak layak untuk memegang jawatan sebagai menteri besar sebaliknya isteri Ketua Umum PKR, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim itu lebih sesuai menyandang jawatan menteri di peringkat pusat. Beliau berkata, sebagai pemimpin utama parti Dr Wan Azizah seharusnya memainkan peranan yang lebih bersifat nasional untuk menarik sokongan rakyat kepada PR. "Pemimpin utama parti sepatutnya mengintai dan mengidamkan jawatan lebih besar, menteri besar itu jawatan kecil kalau dibandingkan dengan menteri persekutuan, perdana menteri atau timbalan perdana, menteri kanan dalam sistem persekutuan." "Saya faham beliau tidak boleh bertanding di peringkat parlimen kerana tempoh lima tahun selepas melepaskan Parlimen Permatang Pauh tetapi Wan Azizah lebih layak memegang jawatan lebih tinggi daripada menteri besar."

Kedah DAP upset with Anwar over Alor Star MP candidacy Posted: 31 Mar 2013 05:19 PM PDT (NST) - Kedah DAP is upset with opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for naming a Parti Keadilan Rakyat candidate to contest the Alor Setar parliamentary constituency in the coming general election. Its chief  Lee Guan Aik said he was surprised and upset with Anwar's announcement that Kedah PKR legal bureau chief Gooi Hsiao Leung would contest the parliamentary seat during a ceramah at Taman Berjaya here last night.   "He can say whatever he wants to say for the Alor Setar parliamentary seat.   "As far as we are concerned, the seat allocation in Kedah for Pakatan Rakyat has yet to be finalised.   "I will wait for my party leadership on the final allocation of seats among Pakatan Rakyat component parties," he said when asked on Anwar's announcement.   Lee, who is also Kota Darulaman assemblyman, said he had requested with his party leadership and that of Pakatan Rakyat's to contest the Alor Setar and Padang Serai parliamentary seats in the general election.   Incidentally, PKR had also named one of its vice-presidents N. Surendran to contest in Padang Serai. However, Lee did not comment on the matter.     Kedah DAP had also requested to contest in four state seats. They are Bakar Arang, Gurun, Lunas and Bakar Bata.   PKR candidates had won Bakar Arang and Lunas in the 2008 general election. However, its assemblymen have since abandoned PKR to become independent candidates.   Gurun was won by BN candidate Dr Leong Yong Kong while Kedah Umno chief Datuk Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah is Bakar Bata assemblyman for the fourth term.

Don't take yourselves as victims: Daim Posted: 31 Mar 2013 05:04 PM PDT (Sin Chew Daily) -- Former finance minister Tun Daim Zainuddin believes that the country's greatest problem is, everyone takes themselves as "victims". "The Malays think that they are victims while the Chinese, Indians, Kadazans also think that they are victims. In fact, everyone has gained benefits respectively," he saild. He said during an interview with Sin Chew Daily that such an attitude must be changed, added that Malaysia is country that struggles for each of its people and in fact, everyone has started to receive benefits since the country's independence. Therefore, such a "victim mentality" is not correct. No one takes all "Is it really so bad? Look at our progress, is it true that only the Malays have benefited from it? Are the Chinese still very poor? Show me data to prove that I'm talking nonsense." He said that it is because the Opposition has kept telling poor Chinese living in poverty that "you are the victims". Daim thinks that the BN government has ruled fairly and in fact, no one has taken all benefits and instead, everyone gets something respectively. Any problems should be debated in the Parliament and not to fight on streets. There will be no answers on streets and if street protests are staged everyday, it would then be like Greece. "Is that what we need? No, it is not our culture. Our culture is hardworking. We told the Malays not to envy the achievements of the Chinese. The success of the Chinese is because they are hardworking. Not easy to solve inequality In terms of the BN's problem in trying to solve inequality, he pointed out that it is easier to be said than done. Inequality exists in various places around the world but the Chinese hope to achieve equality at once. "Everyone wants equality but reality is unequal. The BN has been talking about the "country" and look at what problems are world economies facing? If we do it for the Malays or the Chinese, other racial groups will ask "why". We take care not only a place, but the whole benefits of the whole country. It is indeed not easy." When being asked to comment on the allegation claiming that the MCA has not defended the interests of the Chinese, Daim said, "There are differences between Umno and MCA ministers. MCA ministers must ensure that they have taken care of their constituencies and they serve the people of their constituencies even during weekends. For the Chinese, they like dinners, performances and ceramah, you must be in the crowd. "what has the DAP done? It is only a small party with lesser members compared to the MCA. However, they are at ease in the Chinese community. They ensure that the situation is under control and of course, playing with sentimental issues." Teaching English is more important than teaching Science and Mathematics in English When being asked about the government's abolition of the teaching Science and Mathematics in English policy, he thinks that teaching English is more important than teaching Science and Mathematics in English as English is the medium of business and trade. Chinese is the second important language as in the future, our country has to deal with China and it is an advantage to have many Mandarin speaking Chinese in our country. Don't be emotional in considering children's future When it comes to Chinese education, Daim said that children's future has always been the top priority. Even the middle class send their children to Chinese primary schools and hope to send them into a better secondary school and college. If given the opportunity, of course they want to go Harvard, Cambridge and Oxford universities instead of universities in China or Taiwan. "Please put aside your emotions to see the real situation. I hope that everyone can think properly. We are all Malaysians and we live in peace and prosperity. Regardless of which racial group you are from, we build the country together." Should resolve problem in a Malaysian way When commended on the Chinese community's demand for the government's recognition of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), Daim said that the government should study the outcome and benefits that it brings. "You cannot consider only an aspect but must think for all. If everyone asks something, the problem will never be solved. We must solve the problem in a "Malaysian way" and think from a Malaysian perspective. I always tell my children that always think as a Malaysian."

Malaysian Opposition Politics for Dummies Posted: 31 Mar 2013 04:54 PM PDT FREEDOM COME FREEDOM GO Malaysian politics is in high gear in the lead up to the impending 13th general elections. As a guide to newbies and reference for oldies, here are some facts to figure in a Malaysian Politics for Dummies. For starters, newly elected Malaysian Bar president Christopher Leong as quoted in the The Malaysian Insider, "Bar Council: AGC has enough proof to reopen Altantuya murder file", "The revelations by Deepak Jaikishan, the late Balasubramaniam Perumal, and Americk Singh Sidhu raise sufficient concern to warrant further investigations by the authorities" "Sufficient concern", yes careful words, but alas concern and not sufficient proof. As a popular phrase goes, so where's the beef? He said, she said. The late PI Bala said what Altantuya said and what Najib Baginda said, what Deepak said and finally what Americk Singh Sidhu said Cecil Abraham said. For the dummies, here is a tidbit as posted in the Malaysian Bar website, "A look at the role and significance of statutory declarations", "This means that if it refers to a fact which could be seen or heard, it must be the evidence of a witness who says he saw it or heard it. If it refers to a fact which could be perceived by any other sense or in any other manner, it must be the evidence of a witness who says he perceived it by that sense or in that manner. Therefore when a person makes a statement about what someone told him, it would only be primary evidence of the fact that someone told him so; it would not be primary evidence of what was told. This by itself would considerably devalue the probity or veracity of a statutory declaration" And what has this got to do with politics? I would advise, unsolicited it may be, to the newly minted Bar president not to be a stooge because the Bar Council is nobody's stooge, in the PKR heavily influenced PII Bala episode. Then there's the hot in the press Pakatan Rakyat assault on Barisan Nasional stronghold state, Johore, as announced by their would be PM, Anwar Ibrahim, announcing Kit Siang to contest in Gelang Patah parliamentary seat. The dummy entry is not about DAP supremo, Lim Kit Siang. Its about the PKR supremo Anwar, the pornstar, Ibrahim. In an interview with the Sundaily, DAP national organising secretary and Rasah MP, Anthony Loke, is quoted, "People expect the MP to be accessible through social media. That is the basic expectation – if you have no FB or Twitter you are out of touch. You must be visible and accessible. It is no longer easy nowadays for a politician to say different things to a different audience anymore! If you are not consistent, you will be caught so easily. In those days, people say you speak to please the respective communities, but it's not possible these days. Anytime people can tape your speeches and put it up on YouTube. If you are saying two different things, you will be caught so easily." It certainly sounds as if YB Anthony Loke is referring to the pornstar Anwar. Apart from, "Plotting," replies Mr Anwar, with a conspiratorial wink, this is what The Economist wrote of the DAP choice for PM, This points to a trap waiting to catch the silver-tongued Mr Anwar, who deftly tells different audiences—religious or secular—what they like to hear. And speaking of Anwar Ibrahim another another one for dummies. His daughter and smarty-pants Lembah Pantai MP, Nurul Izzah, has sued the election commission, in The Malaysian Insider "After Santiago, Nurul Izzah hauls EC to court on electoral roll, "Nurul Izzah said that an additional 2,000 voters were expected to be registered in the Lembah Pantai electoral roll for the fourth quarter of 2012, totalling about 73,000 voters. "We had 50,000 voters in 2008," said the PKR vice-president." READ MORE HERE

CheguBard mahu masuk UMNO…tolonglah pujuk dia‏ Posted: 31 Mar 2013 04:44 PM PDT   (FreeMalaysiakini) - LAMAN ini difahamkan bahawa CheguBard atau nama sebenarnya Badrul Hisham Shahrin tidak akan dicalonkan bagi mewakili Pakatan Rakyat dalam pilihanraya akan datang.  Pencalonan bekas guru pelatih yang kemudian menyertai politik ini dilihat akan mencetus lebih banyak masalah kepada PKR, terutama dengan Ketua  Angkatan Muda Keadilan, Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin yang sudah sah akan bertanding di Parlimen Bukit Katil menentang calon BN yang disebut-sebut akan bertanding disitu iaitu Ketua Menteri Melaka, Datuk Seri Ali Rustam. Bukan rahsia sejak kalah dalam pertandingan sengit merebut jawatan Ketua AMK pada 2010, hubungan Chegubard dan Shamsul Iskandar begitu renggang walaupun cuba didamaikan Ketua Umum PKR, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yang membawa kedua-dua mereka ke Indonesia untuk bertenang.  Kerenggangan itu kalau membabitkan mereka berdua sahaja tidak ada masalah, tapi apabila CheguBard menggunakan NGO SAMM (Solidariti Anak Muda Malaysia) yang dibiayai sepenuhnya oleh PKR untuk mensabotaj program Shamsul Iskandar, maka tindakan seumpama itu dilihat sudah keterlaluan. Walaupun CheguBard semakin aktif menganjurkan program pro Pakatan Rakyat kebelakangan ini, dengan yang terbaru pelancaran Gerakan Haramkan UMNO (GHU) semalam, tapi tindakan itu lebih kepada untuk memberi tekanan kepada pimpinan PKR agar mencalonkannya di kerusi parlimen Nibong Tebal di Pulau Pinang, bukan untuk membantu parti dan Pakatan Rakyat. Walaupun PKR Pulau Pinang telah menawarkan CheguBard supaya bertanding di kerusi selamat parti tersebut di Permatang Pauh, tapi CheguBard dengan bongkaknya menolak pencalonan tersebut atas sebab yang kurang difahami ramai.  Mungkin dia tidak mahu mengganggu kawasan yang asalnya telah dikhaskan kepada seorang lagi anak Anwar, Nurul Nuha.  CheguBard diketahui mempunyai hubungan yang sangat rapat dengan Presiden PKR, Datin Seri Wan Azizah Ismail. Parlimen Rembau yang ditandinginya pada 2008 menentang Ketua Pemuda UMNO, Khairy Jamaludin dan tewas, telah diperuntukkan kepada PAS kerana pertukaran kerusi dengan Parlimen Jempol dimana PKR dilihat lebih mempunyai peluang untuk merampas kerusi yang 'kaya' dengan kawasan Felda tersebut. Diakhirnya, Pengarah Pilihanraya PKR, Azmin Ali telah menyingkirkan terus nama CheguBard dari senarai calon PKR, banyak sangat soal jawab. Tindakan Azmin menyingkirkan calon-calon yang pro Wan Azizah ini pun ada satu kisah yang layak dijadikan artikel juga, tapi itu nantilah.  Paling cepat petang ini, paling lambat pagi besok, kami akan hurai dan kupas isu ini berdasarkan maklumat yang diperolehi sumber laman ini yang rapat dengan kedua-dua kem tersebut. Sekarang, suarapakatanrakyat.com menerima satu lagi perkhabaran bahawa CheguBard sedang cuba menjaja nasib kepada UMNO pula.  Kita yakin dia bukan menyokong UMNO sangat, tapi untuk mendapatkan perhatian dari pimpinan tinggi PKR yang lain, selain Azmin. Laman ini berpandangan, walaupun CheguBard kurang mempunyai pengaruh di kalangan pengundi yang lebih tua, tapi dia ada kesan kepada pengundi yang lebih muda.  Maka itu tidak rugi kalau pimpinan PKR menghantar wakil memujuk CheguBard agar tidak meneruskan hasratnya itu.  Sebagai ganti, mungkin dia boleh dijanjikan jawatan sebagai duta Malaysia di mana-mana negara Eropah.

Nalla subpoenas Karpal, Ummi and Azizan Posted: 31 Mar 2013 04:39 PM PDT The senator wants them to appear as witnesses on his behalf over a sodomy incident involving Anwar and the latter's driver Azizan Abu Bakar. (Bernama) - Senator S Nallakaruppan intends to subpoena senior lawyer Karpal Singh, businesswoman Ummi Hafilda Ali and Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim's former driver Azizan Abu Bakar to appear as witnesses on his behalf in the defamation suit initiated by Anwar over defamatory remarks made in 2008. Nallakaruppan's lead defence counsel Muhammad Shafee Abdullah said Karpal would be a "useful and helpful" witness in relation to what the member of parliament said in Parliament over Azizan and Umi's disclosure to him during two meetings with him on Oct 22 and Dec 18 over the first sodomy incident involving him (Azizan) and Anwar. "Based on the Hansard recording, Karpal had told Parliament that he was impressed with Azizan's disclosure supported by a statutory declaration where he implicated Anwar and later became a subject matter of sodomy in court trial," Shafee told a press conference at the court complex, here. Shafee described Karpal as an important MP with high credibility, where his testimony was crucial for the defendant (Nallakaruppan) to collaborate it with Azizan's disclosure of the incident. "Even Karpal in 2007 also invited Anwar to file a defamation suit against Azizan and Umi on this matter," he said. Asked whether he already obtained the subpoena, Shafee said the premilinary issue on the suit was still pending at the Court of Appeal and he would be making the application once the court set the dates for trial of the suit. On March 26, 2008, Anwar filed the suit alleging that Nallakaruppan had uttered defamatory words against him which were then published on the front page of the Utusan Malaysia daily on March 20, 2008. In his statement of claim, Anwar said the defamatory words included in the article were false, baseless, was published with ill intention and had tarnished his good name. Anwar is seeking RM100 million in general, aggravated and exemplary damages, cost and other relief deemed fit by the court.

Bishop: What sort of justice is this? Posted: 31 Mar 2013 04:37 PM PDT Bishop Paul Tan is incensed over the video which shows MP Zulkifli Noordin belittling the Hindu faith and demands action from the '1Malaysia' government. RK Anand, FMT The video recording of a member of Parliament belittling the Hindu faith has prompted a Catholic priest to question the government's double standard in dealing with such matters. Bishop Paul Tan pointed out that the present ruling government had not hauled up any Muslim who uttered seditious words and made seditious gestures against those of other religions while it acted against those who stated unpleasant things about Islam. The head of the Malacca-Johor diocese was responding to the video of Kulim Bandar Bahru MP Zulkifili Noordin who mocked how statues of Hindu deities could not prevent a flood in Masjid India here. The video, which was uploaded on YouTube, had since gone viral. Zulkifli is also the vice-president of Perkasa, whose president Ibrahim Ali had also earned the wrath of Tan when he called for the torching of Malay bibles that used the term Allah. The bishop recounted how he had in the past called on the government to take action against both Ibrahim and Perkasa patron and former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad over this issue. "What sort of justice is this? It is no justice but bigotry which the Almighty God himself would be ashamed of," he said. "God sees, hears and knows everything. In spite of the fact that final justice is rendered by the Almighty God, we humans are not exempt from taking the right means to right what is wrong. "Failure to do so is an immorality which must be punished," he added. Tan also quoted PKR vice-president N Surendran, who pointed out that Section 198 A of the Penal Code provided for the punishment of those who utter words which cause disharmony, feelings of enmity, hatred and ill-will on grounds of religion. "Let his [Surendran's] words ring in the ears of those who planned 1Malaysia," said the Bishop, in reference to Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak. "Or is the 1Malaysia only a political slogan with self interests?" he asked. READ MORE HERE

Mahfuz: BN rancang huru-hara 13 Mei? Posted: 31 Mar 2013 04:34 PM PDT BN akan meggunakan sentimen tersebut untuk menakut-nakutkan rakyat kerana mereka kini sedang menghadapi krisis kepercayaan daripada pengundi. Jamilah Kamarudin, FMT PAS mendakwa Barisan Nasional (BN) sedang merangka satu percaturan untuk menimbulkan huru-hara ala 'Peristiwa 13 Mei' sekiranya gagal mendapat mandat untuk membentuk kerajaan pusat selepas Pilihan Raya Umum ke 13 (PRU13). Naib Presiden PAS Datuk Mahfuz Omar mendakwa, BN akan meggunakan sentimen tersebut untuk menakut-nakutkan rakyat kerana mereka kini sedang menghadapi krisis kepercayaan daripada pengundi. "Saya yakin ini yang sedang dirancang untuk membolehkan PRU diadakan menjelang 13 Mei untuk menyuntik satu jarum pemikiran ketakutan yang kemudiannya akan ada satu provokasi daripada BN yang sedang menaja kumpulan pengganas politik di negara ini untuk timbulkan huru-hara," katanya dalam sidang media di Ibu Pejabat PAS di sini hari ini. Beliau percaya indikator itu boleh berlaku kerana melihat kerajaan sehingga sekarang masih belum membubarkan Parlimen, sebaliknya sengaja melengahkan tarikh PRU sehingga diadakan pada sekitar hujung April sehingga Mei ini. Ahli Parlimen Pokok Sena itu juga mendakwa, provokasi itu akan berlarutan sehingga rakyat dan ahli politik pembangkang dijadikan mangsa tahanan pihak berkuasa dengan merujuk kepada Operasi Lalang 1987. "Saya percaya BN sedang rancang sesuatu untuk timbulkan huru-hara berasaskan beberapa keadaan politik apabila BN sedang menghadapi krisis kepercayaan daripada rakyat seperti mana saya dimangsakan Ops Lalang 1987 iaitu isu ketegangan kaum pada waktu itu yang diketuai Najib Tun Razak (Umno) dan Datuk Lee Kim Sai (MCA). "Walaupun Akta Keselamatan Negeri (ISA) sudah tiada, kali ini mereka akan gunakan apa saja undang-undang yang ada termasuk Akta Kesalahan Keselamatan (Langkah-langkah Khas) 2012 (SOSMA 2012)," katanya. READ MORE HERE

Perang dingin jawatan MB Selangor... Posted: 31 Mar 2013 04:08 PM PDT (Agenda Daily) - Dalam politik silap cakap ia boleh mengundang pelbagai spekulasi.Kalau dilihat dalam konteks pergolakan perang dingin politik dalaman PKR Selangor,Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim dikatakan sudah membuka satu 'medan tempur' baru menjelang pilihanraya umum ke 13. Entahlah samaada beliau sengaja hendak jolok atau itu keluar secara ikhlas darinya.Ini merujuk kepada cakapnya Sabtu bahawa  Presiden PKR, Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Ismail  layak jadi Menteri Besar Selangor. Tanpa melibatkan sebarang unsur politik,sebenarnya siapa saja layak menjadi Menteri Besar asalkan orang itu menang pilihanraya kerusi Dewan Undangan Negeri dan mendapat perkenaan Sultan. Namun kalangan yang rajin mengintai pergelutan kuasa antara dua kem - yakni kem Azmin Ali dan kem Khalid ,dalam PKR negeri itu melihat Menteri Besar itu seolah hendak memberi mesej tertentu menerusi kenyataannya. Al-kisahnya Khalid dikatakan memang rapat dengan Wan Azizah dan mereka dikatakan tidak begitu ngam dengan Azmin dan gengnya. Khalid pula dikatakan mungkin tidak bertanding kerusi DUN Ijok yang disandangnya sekarang dan hanya akan mempertahankan kerusi Parlimen di Bandar Tun Razak,Kuala Lumpur. Maka kenyataan Khalid itu dilihat sudah book jawatan Menteri Besar untuk Wan Azizah jika pakatan dapat mempertahankan Selangor pada PRU13. Azmin dan gengnya dikatakan sudah lama mengidam  jawatannya jatuh ke riba mereka. Lojiknya sebagai Pengerusi Perhubungan PKR Selangor Azmin dilihat tiada kekuatan politik tanpa beliau sendiri atau orang kepercayaannya pegang jawatan Menteri Besar. Selain pegang kerusi DUN  Bukit Antarabangsa,Azmin juga kini adalah Ahli Parlimen Gombak. Kenyataan tiba-tiba Wan Azizah beberapa hari lalu bahawa beliau berminat hendak bertanding kerusi DUN di Selangor menjelang PRU13, sebenarnya mengejutkan ramai pihak. Sekalipun tidak lama dulu pernah membayangkan minat seumpama itu namum kemudiannya ia senyap begitu sahaja. Disamping itu ada yang melihat kerusi DUN tidak setaraf dengan kedudukannya sebagai Presiden sebuah parti. Namun lain ceritanya jika beliau mengintai jawatan Menteri Besar. Maka kenyataan Khalid dilihat sudah membuka laluan itu. Apapun puak Azmin dikatakan mempunyai alasan kuat untuk mempertikaikan langkah itu. Walau atas apa alasan sekalipun,cubaan untuk menonjolkan Wan Azizah sebagai Menteri Besar Selangor jika pakatan menang akan menghebohkan lagi isu dinasti keluarga Anwar dalam politik. Wan Azizah berjaya mempertahankan kerusi Parlimen Permatang Pauh pada pilihanraya Mac 2008 menewaskan calon Barisan Nasional Datuk Pirdaus Ismail. Beliau telah letak jawatan pada 31 Julai 2008 bagi memberi laluan kepada Anwar bertanding pada pilihan raya kecil kawasan itu.

GE13: DAP slams PKR for being ‘insensible’ Posted: 31 Mar 2013 03:54 PM PDT (The Star) - JOHOR BARU: The DAP-PKR spat in Johor continues with state DAP chief Dr Boo Cheng Hau accusing its ally in the Opposition front of being "unreasonable, insensible and lacking the spirit of fraternity" in demanding to take the Segamat and Bakri parliamentary seats. He said PKR had been allotted 11 parliamentary seats in Johor, compared with nine for PAS and six for DAP. "I deeply regret Johor PKR has been insensibly targeting DAP seats. I urge them to look at the bigger picture," he said. Dr Boo said that instead of eyeing additional parliamentary seats, PKR should swap state seats with PAS, which has been allotted 28 of the 56 state seats at stake. This comes came a day after Johor PKR deputy chief Dr Ahmad Faidhi said he had taken over the duties of state party chairman Datuk Chua Jui Meng, who had gone "missing in action" for more than 10 days. Chua is allegedly sore that his party adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim endorsed the candidacy of DAP veteran Lim Kit Siang in Gelang Patah, the parliamentary seat that both Dr Boo and Chua were eyeing. Chua had earlier stated that he was also keen to contest in Bakri, where he was MP before being dropped by Barisan Nasional in 2008. Dr Ahmad also insisted that the Segamat parliamentary seat, along with the Johor Jaya and Tangkak state seats, were PKR's. At the last polls, Bakri was won by DAP and Segamat by Barisan's Datuk Seri S. Subramaniam who beat DAP. Meanwhile, two former DAP branch officials and their supporters held a protest against Dr Boo for allegedly ignoring the needs of the Indian community. V. Thulasi Das, former chairman of the Taman Saga DAP branch in Kulai, and K. Murugan, former publicity secretary of the Taman Nesa DAP branch in Skudai, claimed Dr Boo had ignored the community's grouses.

GE13: Wooing the fence-sitters Posted: 31 Mar 2013 03:52 PM PDT The thrust of campaigning for the imminent general election has shifted towards winning over the fence-sitters, especially urbanites below the age of 40. Political parties are actively wooing this undecided group believed to make up a large slice of the newly registered 3.75 million voters. Although the determining factors for the fence-sitters remain anyone's guess, campaigners are working hard to make their side look and feel better than the other. Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin said the party had identified more fence-sitters in the urban and suburban constituencies. "There could be up to 40% of voters who have yet to make up their minds over who to vote for and the figure could go higher for younger voters, maybe even 50%. "I think they are still holding back their votes while waiting for the candidates list to be announced. They might also want to compare the manifestos of both sides, campaign themes and ads, and general mood closer to the polling day based on peer interaction on the media or social media," he said. Khairy said that with such a large number of undecided voters this time around, the selection of candidates would be crucial. "In the urban areas, we must pick candidates who can win over the independents over those who can only galvanise the party base," he said. MCA Young Professionals Bureau head Datuk Chua Tee Yong said parties could no longer take the fence-sitters for granted. Admitting that Barisan Nasional campaigners overlooked the voter sentiment and the shift in the ground in the 2008 general election, he said: "At that time, we didn't feel the vibes, we weren't sensitive enough and didn't feel the shift in the ground." Chua said fence-sitters usually looked out for candidates who appeared approachable, could articulate issues well, and even whether they could converse in local dialects. "They may also be swayed by emotive issues that can crop up during the last leg of campaigning and this can make or break the candidate's chances," he said. PAS vice-president Salahuddin Ayub said that although it was not common for voters in rural areas to be fence-sitters, some were known to reserve their judgment until the last moment. "Even party workers who transport voters from houses to the voting centres can help sway votes. "But I think by this time, many would have already made up their minds," he said. DAP national organising secretary Anthony Loke said fence-sitters were the deciding voters in most elections. "They want to see whose message they can identify with, the overall mood during the campaigning period and then side with the team that looks to be winning," he said. However, Loke said his estimated number of fence-sitters was only between 15% and 20% only, much lower than Barisan's projection. "I think most voters have made up their minds. Both sides have their hardcore fans and their base support, but they need to woo the fence-sitters to win," he said.

Ustaz Rujhan revelations anger PAS Posted: 31 Mar 2013 03:14 PM PDT In over six months, the mild-mannered, bespectacled ustaz, who is also Nadi Rakyat Malaysia religious bureau chairman, has built up a following against the Pas leadership, attracting thousands to his ceramah that is held two to three times a week. (NST) - KOTA BARU: Ustaz Rujhan Abdul Rahman is a "dead man walking". "I have been told by PAS insiders that it is halal to draw my blood, along with three other ustaz who are dispelling the notion that Pas is Islam and Islam is PAS." In over six months, the mild-mannered, bespectacled ustaz, who is also Nadi Rakyat Malaysia religious bureau chairman, has built up a following against the Pas leadership, attracting thousands to his ceramah that is held two to three times a week. This, he alleged, had made him a dangerous man to PAS. Having taken precautionary measures, Rujhan said he and other high-profile penceramah, including uztaz Saidi Hussain, now never leave their houses without a bulletproof vest. Rujhan was recently asked to vacate the house he and his family had been renting from a PAS supporter for the past 13 years. This reporter attended a ceramah in Wakaf Baru recently and the reaction from the 6,000-strong crowd, made up of a broad cross-section of the public, clamouring for a better picture and yearning for the truth, was inspiring. Armed with slides, videos and evidence, the fiery orator's arsenal was impressive. Making up roughly 20 per cent of the crowd were fence-sitters. With each revelation, shouts of "PAS murtad!" and "Igat Nik Aziz!" (Arrest Pas spiritual leader and Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat) pierced the cool night. One video clip showed Nik Aziz saying that PAS was willing to accept Satan's help in its fight against Umno. This drew gasps from the incredulous crowd. Another clip showed Nik Aziz's son, Nik Abduh, saying: "It is Allah who told us to seize Putrajaya from Barisan Nasional." The sound of disapproval grew louder as the crowd was shown slides and clips of PAS' complicity with DAP, which is reviled by the majority of Muslims in the state. For the majority of the crowd, who live below the poverty line, images of Nik Aziz's white Toyota Alphard minivan run counter to the carefully cultivated image of a man who lives a simple life, which the local folk are fed on daily. Another slide showed a mansion attached to the back of a half-wooden home, well known among the folk in Kelantan as Nik Aziz's house. When the slide showing the net worth of the top PAS leadership was flashed on the big screen, gasps of disbelief echoed through the crowd. Murmurs of discontent soon followed and reached a deafening crescendo. Tok Guru had not too long ago made disparaging remarks about the low-income recipients of the 1Malaysia People's Aid. Nik Aziz had said the aid was "like scattering padi and coconut husks in front of chickens and cows to entice them to come closer". When met in the lobby of a local hotel, Rujhan was candid about how PAS viewed him. "I have a police officer on my security detail. I also have two private contractors who handle my security. "The feedback I've been getting tells me that more and more people are beginning to see the real PAS. "People here used to fear speaking ill of PAS, believing that mishap would befall them. But with knowledge, they are starting to openly call PAS' bluff." Rujhan believed that this rankled the PAS leadership, who viewed him as a clear and present danger to the party. "I've gotten a razor blade mailed to me, along with a picture of a tongue being cut off. That's part of an attempt to silence me and my comrades."

Muhyiddin, the other Prime-Minister-in-Waiting Posted: 31 Mar 2013 02:12 PM PDT   Don't complain five years later that Muhyiddin is a Prime Minister without popular mandate.  This is his election, not Najib's, much like the 2008 poll was Najib's, not Abdullah's.  Wong Chin Huat, fz.com  IN hindsight, the 2008 elections were really a choice between, not Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, but between Datuk Seri Najib Razak and Anwar.    One reason Najib is attacked today for not dissolving parliament early is that he did not win his mandate in 2008, as the BN victory was won in Abdullah's name.    This was however true only if we were completely ignorant of the possibility that Abdullah would be significantly weakened, thanks to his predecessor Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's relentless attack.   If Abdullah could not rein in the warlords in UMNO in 2004 despite a 91% parliamentary majority, how could he survive his party comrades' onslaught after losing the conventional two-thirds majority. And denying Abdullah his two-thirds was what Mahathir, the opposition and a large segment of the public tacitly agreed on.   In that sense, the 2008 elections were Najib's inaugurating elections, just unannounced. Of course, some would cry foul for not being informed explicitly of the built-in succession agenda.   In the same way, the 2013 elections may be Muhyiddin's inaugurating elections but we have no excuse that we are not explicitly informed. For a year or so, many UMNO leaders have been talking aloud of the BN restoring its two-thirds majority, effectively denying Najib his chance of a soft landing – i.e. continuing to rule with a modest majority.   In the past five years, Malaysians have become bolder and bolder in standing up for their rights, and opposing unpopular government policies.   As shown in the Psy concert, they would not even "give face" to the Prime Minister by hiding their rejection.    How likely is it for the BN under Najib to even just do better than when under Abdullah?    In 2008, BN was eight seats away from the super-majority.  Based on the outcome of the 2011 Sarawak state election, the ruling coalition will lose at least six more parliamentary seats there to the opposition.   This is before taking into consideration the marginal seats that BN may lose due to the recently released video clip implicating Taib and his relatives in land sale scandals.   Now, out of the 15 seats currently held by MCA, the BN's second largest party, 13 have an electorate with one third or more being Chinese voters.    If the Chinese support for the opposition goes to 80%, MCA must be able to get at least two-thirds of non-Chinese votes to keep these seats.    With MCA chief Chua Soi Lek's sensitive-sounding statements on Islam, it is quite unlikely that MCA can even count on a two-thirds majority amongst the Malay voters.   Even before including a couple of Sabah seats that are expected to be lost, thanks to the Project M and the government's handling of the Sulu incursion, the BN may lose up to 19 more seats alone due to the Sarawak and Chinese discontents.   Now, can UMNO – the strongest party in BN – deliver 19 more seats to just maintain the status quo in 2008, let alone another eight more seats to regain the two-third majority? Read more at: http://fz.com/content/muhyiddin-other-prime-minister-waiting

Anwar, Who is Sabah CM? Posted: 31 Mar 2013 02:04 PM PDT   Abu Nawas, Sabahkinimirror WHEN the Barisan Nasional (BN) government announces the setting-up of the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESSZone), Anwar knows for certain his chances of capturing Sabah & Sarawak are lost.  Losing Sabah means losing Sarawak as well, it is a domino effect in politics in the Borneo States.  Sabah ESSZone is the signal to Sarawak Rajang Security Command (RASCOM) to start realigning back to BN. As the result it is better for Anwar to concentrate his attention to the Member of Parliament (MP) and State Seats in Malaya.  This is perhaps the main reason for him to finally reject STAR and SAPP; it is not because of seat distribution. These new development makes PAKATAN presence in Sabah and Sarawak as a non-starter. For Anwar Sabah does not matter because he still have Ansari and Tamrin from Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Lajim Ukim from PPPS and Wilfred Bumburing from APS.  They will be used to represent the Sabah interest and put up a token challenge to BN in Sabah. So, what was Anwar thinking when he made the announcement that PAKATAN will do it alone in Sabah?  In the event that his token challenge and by sheer fluke that PAKATAN manage to form a government in Sabah, surely Anwar will reintroduce the Chief Minister rotation in Sabah under the pretext that every community in Sabah must have the chance to lead Sabah. The rotation of the Chief Minister in Sabah will serve Anwar in many ways.  Rotating the Chief Minister every two years means the state government will be weak, nothing can be decided in Sabah.  It is therefore obvious that decision must be made by Kuala Lumpur.  Sabah cannot plan or implement anything, therefore the much needed funds can be routed to Malaya where it is most needed.  After all Anwar political powerbase will always be Malaya not Sabah or Sarawak. As far as Anwar is concern Sabah and Sarawak is just two cash cows for him to squeeze. It cannot be denied that the existing BN government is chalking substantial national debt, so much politicking currently that no one is generating fresh income-stream for the nation. As the government PAKATAN will further jeopardize the present Economic Transformation Programs because PAKATAN will want to change the current "cronies" with their own.  In the ensuing long drawn legal battle, practically nothing will be done; everything will be at a standstill.  Read more at: http://sabahkinimirror.blogspot.com/2013/04/anwar-who-is-sabah-cm.html

Sulu army gets reinforcements? Posted: 31 Mar 2013 02:01 PM PDT   (FMT) - Armed men had allegedly slipped through the Malaysian and Philippine naval cordon and joined Kiram's rebels, claims the sultan's spokesperson. Some 100 heavily armed men have joined the followers of Agbimuddin Kiram in Sabah to continue fighting Malaysian forces in Lahad Datu, sultanate spokesman Abraham Idjirani (photo) said yesterday. Idjirani said Agbimuddin, brother of Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III called him up to report that some heavily armed civilians have joined the fighting in Sabah. Idjirani said the civilians managed to slip through the sea blockade of the Malaysian and Philippine navy forces in going to Sabah. "(Agbimuddin) called me about the arrival of civilians with arms who have joined the royal security forces," Idjirani said, according to The Philippine Star. It was not known where the armed civilians came from but sources said some are Tausugs from various parts of Mindanao who arrived in small groups to avoid the Malaysian and Philippine naval blockade at the Sulu Sea. Idjirani also reported that relatives of Kiram who are long-time residents of Sabah went into hiding after Malaysian police began its crackdown on suspected supporters of the sultan's army. "The relatives of sultan are now living in fear and have gone into hiding," he said. Last Thursday, Philippine embassy officials in Kuala Lumpur were allowed to visit eight men facing charges for terrorism-related violence for their involvement in the Sabah incident. Philippine Ambassador to Kuala Lumpur Eduardo Malaya, in a statement, identified the eight as Atik Hussin Bin Abu Bakar, Basad H. Manuel, Habil Bin Suhali, Holland Bin Kalbi, Thimhar Hadil Sultan, Lin Bin Mad Salleh, Kadir Bin Uyung and Lating Bin Tiong. Malaya did not say if the eight, detained at the prison facility in Tawau, are Filipinos. The Sulu sultanate had earlier said the eight are Malaysians.  Read more at: http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2013/04/01/sulu-army-gets-reinforcements-in-lahad-datu/

Malaysia at (yet another) crossroads Posted: 31 Mar 2013 01:50 PM PDT   (ABC.net.au) - While Malaysia has achieved admirable economic success under its dominant coalition government, this has come at the expense of human rights and the free press. Now, the opposition is offering greater transparency, write Gerhard Hoffstaedter and Greg Lopez. The Malaysian government and its multiple state governments have become caretaker governments and elections will have to be called before June 28, 2013 if the country wants to maintain the semblance of an electoral democracy. Everything is at stake at these elections. Malaysia has been ruled as a country by one coalition since independence in 1957 and its hold on political power has been tenacious. The economy and society remains formidable. Opposition coalitions have tried at every election to make inroads in a system clearly stacked against them. In 2008, there was a real breakthrough, with the opposition capturing five out of the 13 states of the federation and breaking the ruling coalition's psychologically important 2/3 majority it had become accustomed to. It is not easy to categorise the two opposing coalitions and its members, as they are disparate, complex, and, with multiple agendas, often fractured. The ruling coalition is run by UMNO, the United Malays National Organisation, with other constituent parties largely serving the Chinese and Indian populations as well as some indigenous communities of Sabah and Sarawak. This consociational model of politics provided each major ethnic group a share in the political domain under the leadership of the Malays and an increasingly Islamicised UMNO. In return, the basic social, cultural and economic rights of the non-Muslims were guaranteed. With a plethora of positive discrimination for the Malays to become upwardly mobile, a new Malay middle class was created, which secured a peace between and among what in Malaysia are referred to as racial groups. This coalition and its grasp on power has maintained this status quo, which has served the elite very well and achieved real economic success, at least on a national level, with Malaysia almost eliminating absolute poverty, recording impressive socioeconomic outcomes, building state-of-the art infrastructure, and achieving upper middle income status in less than half a century after independence. However, outward peace and economic success were built on enduring human rights violations, a lack of a free press, corruption, and the capitulation of the civil sphere to reactionary and extremist nationalist and religious zealots. The opposition promises to unmake some of these strictures and aims to provide a more transparent form of governance, which it demonstrated in two of Malaysia's most populous, rich and industrialised states - Selangor and Penang - which it has governed since 2008. But the opposition coalition is a looser coalition, made up of a predominantly Chinese party with socialist ideologies, Malaysia's only Islamist party, and the People's Justice party, headed by former deputy prime minister Anwar Ibrahim. He remains a divisive figure in Malaysia. His democratic credentials (as well as his economic liberal ones) are well known in the West, but in Malaysia punters are more concerned with his sexuality. The ruling coalition will continue to pursue any opening it can to destabilise his appeal as elder statesman. Prime minister Najib, meanwhile, is ignoring corruption charges in a French court over kickbacks in the purchase of French submarines and, more disconcertingly, questions about his involvement in the murder of a Mongolian model in Malaysia, who had acted as a translator in the said French submarine deal. The campaign thus far has been fought by chipping away at both leaders' capacity to elder statesmen and their ability to lead a divided country. The ruling coalition has, upon advice from an American PR company, rolled out a more inclusive image of its administration and vision for Malaysia, epitomised under its "1Malaysia" concept that now features on shop fronts, medical centres and government offices. It has not, however, reined in the divisive reactionary movements and NGOs that call for Sharia to be the supreme law in the country or that continue to call non-Malays 'sojourners' in 'their' land. To overcome the divided body politic, it will require a leader of substance and integrity. For many, that continues to be Anwar Ibrahim, while others are less sure. But without any alternatives, the stage is set for a bruising and expensive campaign with the highest of stakes and the lowest of strategies - in terms of quality - to get there. Read more at: http://www.abc.net.au/unleashed/4603166.html

The promise of political violence Posted: 31 Mar 2013 01:33 PM PDT   As if these carrots were not good enough, the BN, especially the Umno leadership, is also promising a stick to influence voters. Jacqueline Ann Surin, The Nut Graph  THE Barisan Nasional (BN) ruling coalition led by Datuk Seri Najib Razak has been making all kinds of election promises. From more funding for Chinese vernacular schools to more Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia handouts and the assurance of economic stability, Najib and his administration have gone into overdrive to influence Malaysian voters. As if these carrots were not good enough, the BN, especially the Umno leadership, is also promising a stick to influence voters. What is this stick? It's the promise of political violence. And while this promise has not been as overt as the cash handouts and other goodies, the threat of electoral violence grows more apparent by the day. How can we tell that political violence is on BN's election menu? And what needs to happen for Malaysians to be free of such threats? Attack and assault Over the past three months since the start of 2013, there have been repeated incidents of violence at political events. Bersih 2.0 has described these incidents as "an unprecedented escalation in political violence", indicating that "violence is increasingly becoming a weapon of first resort". Throughout the months of February and March, opposition politicians including Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Nurul Izzah Anwar, Tian Chua and M Manogaran have all been assaulted. Other groups critical of the BN, such as the Felda Settlers' Children Association and Gerakan Mahasiswa PRU13, have also been targeted and attacked. The groups that have used assault to silence and scare those with different political views have hurled rocks, bricks, wood, firecrackers, water bottles, a helmet and eggs to cause harm. They have damaged property and caused injury with near impunity, it would seem. Read more at: http://www.thenutgraph.com/the-promise-of-political-violence/

Suluks next big wave after Hindraf's makkal sakthi Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:58 PM PDT   There are an estimated 800,000 Suluks in Sabah albeit including illegal immigrants. The fear of such a political tsunami is evident in the declaration of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) and the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESSZONE). Joe Fernandez The Suluks are the next big wave in Malaysian politics, indeed a political tsunami, after Hindraf's makkal sakthi (people power in Tamil) in 2008. Why not? There are an estimated 800,000 Suluks in Sabah albeit including illegal immigrants. The fear of such a political tsunami is evident in the declaration of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) and the Eastern Sabah Safety Zone (ESSZONE). It may be time to say makkal sakthi in Suluk! No one can begrudge the right of the Suluks to stand up and be heard separate from the concerns and dictates of Putrajaya in Sabah and Sarawak. But the Suluk and their Bajau comrades in politics have to keep in mind that they are not Orang Asal (Original People) in Sabah. Sabahans can still point to the ancestral lands of the Suluk and Bajau elsewhere in the Philippines. As long as these two communities remember that, their politics will be more acceptable in Sabah. It would not do to underestimate the Orang Asal of Sabah.   Orang Asal support crucial to Suluk politics If the Suluks want to have one leg in the Sulu Archipelago and another leg in the east coast of Sabah that's entirely their business. After all the kakas from Kerala who sell rojak in Malaya and the teh tarik mamaks from Tamil Nadu are doing it as well besides the Pakistanis and Banglawallahs in Sabah. Throw in the odd ah pek or two. But just in case anyone gets some funny ideas, they should remember that eastern Sabah is not part of the territory of the Orang Asal in the Sulu Archipelago. If the Suluks want one of their kind to be Chief Minister of Sabah again, they have to sort it out with the Orang Asal. No one, Orang Asal or non-Orang Asal, can be Chief Minister of Sabah without the support of the Orang Asal. The late Mustapha Harun, the Suluk Chief, learnt it the hard way. The Chinese will follow wherever the Orang Asal are going, a direction which is by no means clear to most people. This is a synergistic relationship between one group which has unfortunately never learnt to count and another which can buy at a loss and sell at a profit since time immemorial. Granted that many Orang Asal leaders are stooges of Putrajaya's proxies and rogue elements in Sabah but that's a different story. We have to keep on the safe side and assume that there might be some method in their madness. It's not always the rice wine -- tuak, lihin or montokou -- talking! That could prove to be deceptive. One should also note their more sober moments and take the cue from there.   Putrajaya leaders should be hauled before ICC for war crimes Nur Misuari of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) is also the man to watch if Suluk politics in Sabah is to get anywhere. Poor chap! Everyone is playing him out and his people. Putrajaya is the Chief Culprit. They have blood on their hands. Think of all the thousands of innocent people on both sides who died in vain when they were not maimed for life, and traumatised. Nur Misuari is right in pointing out that Malaysia is the main stumbling block to peace in the southern Philippines. Right is right and wrong is wrong. He should know what he's talking about. He admits to being trained, armed and financed by Malaysia to wage war against the Manila Government in the southern Philippines under the guise of Muslim Brotherhood, whatever it means. In fact, there's a case for bringing Putrajaya before the International Criminal Court for war crimes, crimes against humanity, ethnic cleansing and genocide in southern Philippines. If every tinpot dictator in Africa, the Balkans and elsewhere can be hauled up before the ICC, why not the Malaysia Boleh leaders in Putrajaya committing a multitude of sins under this nefarious label. The involvement of Mustapha should be revisited too although the Suluks would beg to disagree. We can't indulge in selective prosecution. We can only wish Nur Misuari well at the peace talks in Jakarta but without Malaysia.   Case for a Federation of Sabah and Sulu if Manila gives up Archipelago However, Suluk politics must accept that Sabahans and Sarawakians will disagree with him saying that Sarawak belonged to his great great grandfather or something to that effect. He's not Orang Asal Sarawak. End of discussion. The Suluks in Sabah must also accept that defunct Sulu Sultanate also does not have a leg to stand on Sabah or parts of it. It's unthinkable that the Suluks, after having fled the evil of the Manila Government, would want Sabah or parts of it to be awarded to the Philippines. If the Suluks can wrest the Sulu Archipelago away from the Philippines, there might be a case for forming a Federation of Sabah and Sulu, one country, two systems, two immigration systems, and one common market. The sovereignty of Sabah rests with its people and not the defunct Sulu Sultanate which has long been consigned to the dustbin of history. True, the Sulu Sultans used to extort tolls at one time from the terrified traffic along the waterways in eastern Sabah. It's best for the Suluks not to make a song and dance act of this and misrepresent this criminal act of a pirate as representing private property rights or as having sovereignty. By Adat and history, the entire land area of Sabah and Sarawak is NCR (Native Customary Right) and belong to the Orang Asal. Again, the descendents of the heirs to the defunct Sulu Sultanate cannot claim private property rights to Sabah or parts of it.   Nur Misuari, Sulu, Malaya have no business in Sabah, Sarawak Nevertheless, Malaysia should agree to go to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and settle these matters. If Sabahans are going to end up as Filipinos, so be it. At least the Filipinos don't endlessly indulge in hysterical talk, as if they are in a trance, about ketuanan Tagalog. Maybe Jeffrey Kitingan will finally have a chance to get somewhere in his politics as President but of the Philippines. He may appoint me as the Philippines Ambassador to the UN, the Vatican or Malaysia, not that I am pushing for it. I might even go to Washington which I am told is only as big as Kajang. I have always wanted to visit Washington, New York and the original 13 colonies in the United States. Something happened here to push the US towards greatness. However, the ICJ is certain to rule that Misuari, Sulu and Malaya have no business to be in Sabah and Sarawak.   Malaysia a plot against Sabah, Sarawak by British sodomists So, that's why Putrajaya will never agree to go to the ICJ in a million years. They would rather commit hara kiri en masse since so great would be their so-called shame in the eyes of the world. They would stand unmasked for the entire world to see for what they really are and what they are more than capable of doing for narrow, selfish self-serving ends. Strangely, none of the ketuanan Melayuists in Putrajaya, including Mahathir Mohamad the advocate of the hara kiri culture among Malays, killed themselves when the ICJ ruled that Pulau Batu Putih or Pedra Branca belonged to Singapore by virtue of Malaysia's inaction on the island to maintain sovereignty. Had the ICJ noted that Singapore was unconstitutionally, unlawfully illegally expelled from Malaysia in 1965, Pulau Batu Putih would still be Malaysian territory. The then Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman had the doors of Parliament locked until the MPs agreed to vote to expel Singapore. There was No Referendum on Malaysia in Sabah, Sarawak, Brunei and Malaya. The ketuanan Melayuists in Malaya, like Sulu and Nur Misuari a la the Brunei sultanate, think that Sabah and Sarawak are their grandfather's ancestral property bequeathed to them by the British sodomists, who were only too fond of the Malay boys they kept, as a parting gift to run their own little colonial empire. The question of a Referendum on Malaysia in Sabah and Sarawak, 50 years too late, does not arise. Sabah and Sarawak should regain their independence of 31 Aug, 1963 and 22 July, 1963 respectively. In fact, in the case of Sarawak, their independence was restored when the Japanese occupation forces in the country surrendered towards the end of World War II. The British coerced the Rajah of Sarawak to hand over his country to them for their nefarious plan to set up Malaysia.   Mahathir should only have the Right of Reply The ICJ is certain to rule that the Manila Government has no business to be in the southern Philippines. The internal colonisation issue alone, as in South Sudan, will kill them at The Hague. Nur Misuari should focus on this issue at the UN Security Council. Why lay waste to the homeland through endless armed conflict when the truth is with the people of the southern Philippines? The Suluks complained well before Lahad Datu about them and the Bajau being marginalised and disenfranchised by the increasing influx of illegal immigrants, especially from Sulawesi. Ironically, the leaders of the Suluk and Bajau communities were the only ones in Sabah to support the formation of Malaysia. Also, the Suluks in particular complain about them and the Bajau not having any political party to represent them and instead were being submerged under the so-called Muslim Bumiputera label in the electoral rolls and being politically choked to death. There is also the issue of the Pala'u (sea gypsies or Bajau Laut) being stateless. The protem United Sabah National Organisation (Usno) of the Sabah Suluks and the State Reform Party (Star), its ally, can be expected to speak up on these major issues in the wake of Lahad Datu and in view of the forthcoming 13th General Election. Usno does not appear to have its own website to highlight issues. It posts its material in FaceBook. There might be some websites they can identify to help get a hearing and spread the message. But there are very few who will publish something even if they disagree with it. Everyone, except Mahathir, has a right to be heard and the right of reply whether we agree or not. Mahathir, as a former PM, should only be seen and not heard but subject to the right of reply.   Not easy for Suluks to get space in the media The Opposition in Sabah and Sarawak should not get bogged down by the rhetoric and polemics of the politics of disruption and distraction. Often, this is nothing more than cheap entertainment when not being used as a ploy by cheap publicity seekers or by the media looking at their bottom lines and to collect angpows. However, it won't be that easy for the Suluks in Sabah to get space in the media. The media, both mainstream and the great majority of the alternative media, is public enemy number one in Malaysia. One alternative media owner confided in frustration that the great majority of his people are on the take. He intends to sack the entire lot after the 13th General Election. He can't believe that they are capable of running all the "nonsense" that they are uploading on Sabah and Sarawak in particular. Many will agree with him on this observation.   Mahathir more confident than PR in handling criticism The corruption of the media in Malaysia is complete. One needs to beware of the media! Forewarned is forearmed. It's an uphill battle for any 3rd Force in Malaysia to get a hearing in the Court of Public Opinion. Both Mahathir and Pakatan Rakyat (PR) are funding the alternative media and various blogs. This amounts to hundreds of millions in ringgit. Mahathir runs a blog to cover up the fact that he's funding the alternative media and various blogs. In the case of Mahathir, he just wants his views to be carried and he wants to exercise his Right of Reply. He doesn't mind if others are extended the same privilege because that's one way that he can keep himself in the news and alive. Besides, unlike PR he's confident that he can fend off any criticism against him. In the case of Pakatan Rakyat, their funding comes with a condition: "Don't carry anything that makes PR look bad. Don't promote a Sabah/Sarawak-based 3rd Force in Malaysian politics." The 3rd Force is routinely criminalised, demonised, dehumanised, neutralised, isolated, and marginalised with a view to exhausting it and therefore that much easier to eliminate and exterminate.   Free media like looking for needle in haystack However, when it comes to Mahathir, there's nothing that PR can do. He can afford to dole out more money -- a tiny fraction of his reported US$ 44 billion in ill-gotten gains can go a long way -- to the alternative media and blogs than PR. So PR has no choice but live with Mahathir in the alternative media and blogs. As a fallback option, they rely on lawsuits to bankrupt their critics and shut them up. They have tried suing Mahathir too but gave up after he said he's willing to be bankrupted but he won't shut up. Taib Mahmud of Sarawak relies more on the mainstream media and so the alternative media and bloggers are after his blood simply because he's being tight-fisted with his money when it comes to them. They care two hoots whether he's corrupt or clean. The people can only hope for a media that does not shut out anyone and gives a hearing to all. That's like looking for a needle in a haystack.   Joe Fernandez is a graduate mature student of law and an educationist, among others, who loves to write especially Submissions for Clients wishing to Act in Person. He feels compelled, as a semi-retired journalist, to put pen to paper -- or rather the fingers to the computer keyboard -- whenever something doesn't quite jell with his weltanschauung (worldview). He shuttles between points in the Golden Heart of Borneo formed by the Sabah west coast, Labuan, Brunei, northern Sarawak and the watershed region in Borneo where three nations meet.

Red flag went up in August 2012 Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:43 PM PDT   Sabah: Ground Zero  The whistleblower who knew what is going to go down in Sabah...  The National Whistleblowers Centre (NWC) in United States was alerted more than seven months ago on the possibility of a security breach in Sabah and this later turned out to be the deadly Sulu incursion. NWC was first alerted on this matter by a United States military officer serving an Asia Pacific command sometime in August last year. Since its formation 1988, the NWC, based in Washington, has provided protection and assistance to thousands of whistleblowers across the United States. The following are copies of emails between the US military officer and the NWC intake specialist that was provided to us by a Deep Throat. However due to attorney-client privilege and to safeguard the identity of the whistleblower, we have darkened out several words and sentences in the emails.  Read more at: http://sabahgroundzero.blogspot.com/2013/03/red-flag-went-up-in-august-2012.html

Are Malays now a wounded civilization? Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:40 PM PDT   Malay unity has suffered owing to the NEP and other factors. Christopher Fernandez, FMT Prior to the attainment of Merdeka (Independence) and up to the point and until Tunku Abdul Rahman was the prime minister, Malaysians enjoyed a certain camaraderie till the May 13, 1969 riots caused the shift in power towards Abdul Razak. When Razak assumed power, he hastily conceived and implemented the New Economic Policy (NEP). He most likely meant well for the Malays and other Bumiputeras, but he failed to gaze into the future to see how the NEP will evolve. This was the failing of the NEP and Razak, which is to be now blamed as the root causes for the factionalism and strife occurring among the Malays in this country. This is why, since the advent of the NEP till now, the Malays have most likely emerged as a wounded civilization. Tracing the root causes of the general unhappiness, discontent and strife within the Malay community now is difficult, as this involves the complicated and daunting task of going through seamless and vast decisions that have been made for them since Independence. But the fact that they are now splintered and disunited is obvious. While Umno, often labelled as "Uniting Malays Not Over", got down to work to get the Malays to reconcile their differences and be united with a stronger voice in this country, the reality on the ground is that Umno has failed to do so. The Malays are still as disunited as ever. What is more worrying is that the Malays have caused the disunity among them to fester for so long, which is why they have now become a wounded civilization. Ironically, it is the well-meaning NEP, an affirmative-action plan to assist Bumiputeras, that can be singled out as the main cause of misery and disunity among the Malays throughout the 30 years of its tenure. Perhaps if the Malay leaders back then had stuck to the Tunku's ideals and practice of meritocracy and decided to play by the rules of the game, the Malays would have fared much better now. Still a discontented lot By dangling the NEP carrot to the Malays – instead of dealing with them with a stick – the community now lacks the resilience and true capability to stand on their own especially in a globalised era. While Malay leaders of the post-May 13, 1969 era should perhaps not be faulted as they needed to quickly address the situation to bring about racial harmony, the failure on their part to deal with the actual causes of the problem in a fair and just manner is to be blamed. By being the largest number in terms of race, the Malays, through their leaders, ganged up on the other races: they bullied and cowed them into submission, and all the while thinking that the NEP would work wonders for them. The Malays failed to adhere to the tenets and obligations of social justice and democracy, and instead took the easy solution. This has backfired on them: today they are incapable of rising up, prompting the government to continue to bail them out. Read more at: http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/opinion/2013/04/01/are-malays-now-a-wounded-civilization/

Attention Non-Partisan and Undecided Voters! Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:31 PM PDT   We are in effect, the most thinking of all the voters. We cannot be bought. We are not easily hood-winked by any side of the political divide, any maverick politician. Political spin irritates and hypocrisy infuriates us.    Anas Zubedy  You and I, we are powerful. Our decision will decide who will and who will not be heading to Putrajaya this coming election. We are the kingmakers. We are the Third Force. Who are we? We are those who are not aligned to any political parties. Or even if we have a preferred political party, our votes for them are CONDITIONAL! According to some, we are about 30 – 40 % of the total voter count. Meaning, we are the third block; BN, PR and us – The Third Force! This is not unique to Malaysia. Even in the USA, a nation that boasts a more mature two-party system, the independents represent the largest bloc, 40% in 2012. Democrats only had 31% while Republicans, 27%. It was them who put Obama up for a second term. The season voters among us probably would have had the experience of voting both for BN and the opposition in the past. Perhaps, historically some of us may have even chosen not to vote - as a form of protest. Our votes and actions depend on the candidates, political situation, and political equation during a particular election. We are in effect, the most thinking of all the voters. We cannot be bought. We are not easily hood-winked by any side of the political divide, any maverick politician.  Political spin irritates and hypocrisy infuriates us. We want truth, if truth frustrates BN it does not matter to us. If truth frustrates PR, it also does not matter to us. We vote with conscience and because of that, we do not follow anyone blindly. We are the voice of reason; we are the conscience of the nation. In this coming election, we can choose many paths, but I will confine my discussion to the following five possibilities. 1. We give BN a very strong mandate, like before 2008, far more than the 2/3rd majority – We want a strong government with less politicking. We choose stability and want to focus on the economy. We prefer the 'China' way rather than the 'India' one where in China projects and government plans could be implemented with greater speed, while in India they need to go through debates over debates. We want to give PM Najib an open track to finish what he has planned out through his ETP and GTP. But we expect the government to go down hard on corruption or else in GE14 we will kick them out. 2. We give instead a very strong mandate to PR – We want a complete overhaul to the system. We want to give PR a chance to implement their promises as per Buku Jingga.  We are open to the possibility and try out DAP's Malaysian Malaysia. We are also ready to the possibility of turning the country into an 'Islamic State' ala PAS 'Welfare State' through the amending of the federal constitution - making Shariah the supreme law. We want to restart, reboot. Anything but what we have today. We want to expand our talent pool for leadership outside BN – be they from DAP, PAS or PKR. We feel that Anwar or Hadi can be a good alternative Prime Minister to Najib. We are willing to allow PR to iron out their leadership issues once in power – even if it will cause us some uncertainties. No matter, we expect the new government to go down hard on corruption or else we kick them out in GE14. 3. We allow a hung parliament – This would mean we want to create a new playing field via a new coalition effectively initiating the demise of both BN and PR. We want to leave it to the wisdom of the YDP Agong in formulating a new coalition to bring order, peace, stability, development (minus corruption), and new politics. This would also mean we have also budgeted and acceptted the fact that there may be many attempts to buy over froggies from both sides of the political divide – since both BN and PR are not for anti-frogging law.   Read more at: http://letusaddvalue.blogspot.com/2013/03/attention-non-partisan-and-undecided.html?m=1

Why we must vote Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:25 PM PDT   Crime and corruption loom large; racial integration is at an all-time low; education woes are unresolved; justice hangs in the balance; equity and equality are miles away. Pointing fingers at the government is easier to do than to admit that the people themselves are creating these perennial problems.  Halimah Mohd Said, The Sun Daily  IN A HUGE way, the procrastination over the timing of the 13th general election has created the perfect opportunity for the rakyat to seriously weigh the good, the bad and the ugly. For close to a year, we have been inundated with statements and counter statements, attacks and counter attacks from both sides of the political divide. Going by the vigorous campaigning of the opposition parties, it would appear that nothing is going right for Malaysia. In their eyes, the nation is in a state of near collapse or chaos, all the policies are wrong and their implementation flawed – until they take over. Yet on the side of the ruling party, we have been exposed to the daily barrage of structural changes and systems transformations; achievement records and policy successes; innovative paradigms and motivating game changes. There are promises and more promises of what is to come. Indeed, despite what the economic pundits and financial whiz kids warn, the next phase of Malaysia's development will be even brighter according to the official spokespersons. Then there are the numerous counter-arguments highlighting the national boo-boos and failures. Crime and corruption loom large; racial integration is at an all-time low; education woes are unresolved; justice hangs in the balance; equity and equality are miles away. Pointing fingers at the government is easier to do than to admit that the people themselves are creating these perennial problems. Those who are able to resist the political blame game see the national dilemma as one of failing ethics and falling moral standards in a society that is growing more materialistic by the day. Businesses evade regulations to maximise profits; lawyers exploit loopholes in the law to earn big money; politicians dole out ringgit to secure power; the public and private sectors are graft-ridden; enforcement officers and criminals seem to be entangled in bribery cahoots. It seems as though we have created a culture where money begets money, political and economic power at the expense of sound values and principles. However, in a country where more than one half the population are still grappling with a low-income status and one quarter are aspiring towards the highest income levels, talk of economic advancements and business opportunities is the crowd puller for the government in power at the state and federal levels. Public platforms promoting discourse on ethics and decorum, values and principles attract mainly a sprinkling of the urban converted thus leaving out a huge chunk of those that need to be educated in them. One exception seems to be the congregations in places of worship – mosques, churches and temples. If only the arguments about ethics and morality can be removed from a strictly spiritual perspective and injected with greater relevance for day-to-day living. Thus when we talk about winnable candidates for the elections and who we should vote for, the question remains as to who is winnable and in whose eyes? When we talk about who has taken the election integrity oath and who has not, the question remains as to what exactly they have sworn to do or not do? If the pledge requires candidates and their parties not to indulge in money politics, then we have to ask why the BN leaders have readily agreed to take the oath and the opposition parties have not? It is obvious that Malaysians will vote in the candidates and the party that are winnable in their own eyes. People will choose the candidates/party with a sound track record and with considerable persuasive powers to convince the constituents that they will continue to deliver. Indeed, when we are faced with the ballot paper we should be looking at candidates who are known in the community and not complete strangers thrust upon us from afar. Foremost on our mind is whether the person has the capability and the clout to get work done. Our main consideration should be that the candidate is able to work with the authorities to bring about the necessary improvements in the lives of the people. An overriding concern is whether he or she will be fully committed to the promise of bringing optimal benefits to the people. We have had ample time to reflect on the type of political leaders we want to lead us into the next phase of the nation's life. Whatever our convictions are about Malaysia's needs for the next five years, we have to exercise the greatest wisdom in selecting the right people to be our state representatives and MPs. Most will agree that Malaysia needs visionary leaders with the foresight to anticipate and plan for the nation's economic development. Some will insist the country needs courageous leaders to innovate, implement and enforce strong socio-cultural policies. Some are convinced we need principled leaders to put us back on high moral ground. A few will abstain for reasons best known to them.

Gambling lords, too, make big money in Kelantan Posted: 31 Mar 2013 12:24 PM PDT Abe We makes more than many professionals, at the expense of his gambling-addicted clients. (Inset) Gambling agents use this system to place their clients' bets on their phone. (NST) - NEFARIOUS WEB: Crime bosses amassing millions from illicit activities that puts state's revenue to shame KOTA BARU: GAMBLING lords operating in Kelantan are making more in a year from their illicit activities than the entire annual revenue of the state government. And they do this right under the noses of the state government. Estimates show that these crime bosses rake in between RM140 million and RM150 million a month. By comparison, the Kelantan government's revenue this year is RM581.77 million, after factoring in the oil royalty payment of RM200 million, which it claimed should be paid by the Federal Government. The way the gambling racket operates is by using a cadre of loyal agents made up of locals in all of the state's 12 districts. It is a multi-level system that takes advantage of the absence of any form of regulation. As a result, punters as young as 15 and Malays can buy numbers without fear of being caught or prosecuted. On average, there are 10 main agents in the 12 districts in the state. Each has an average of 10 sub-agents. With three draws a week and a collection of no less than RM10,000 each time, the agents collect a minimum of RM120,000 a month (at least 12 collections). The New Straits Times' Special Probes Team tracked down one of the top agents in Kota Baru to get an insight into the operation. Known as Abe We to his clients, the 54-year-old makes no less than RM24,000 a month. Abe We is good at what he does. He rakes in big money without even trying and he started in the business only last year. Before that, he used to buy numbers regularly but when he saw that the agents were making a killing, he decided that he wanted a piece of the action. His highest taking was RM28,000 a month. From the RM140,000 he collects each month from all the bets placed, he makes 20 per cent. When any of his clients hit the jackpot, he gets an additional 10 per cent share. "I used to buy numbers, but I saw how much the agents were making and I wanted to start making that kind of money, so I started making enquiries. We all know the demand and market is huge. Here, in Pasir Putih, Pasir Mas, Tumpat ... it's huge," says Abe We. "In Tumpat, where I operate from, I cannot even begin to tell you how big the market is. Each area has a representative to collect and I meet my boss at least twice a month. "It wasn't easy getting in. For me to be appointed an agent, I had to earn his trust. I had to serve a probationary period where my weekly collection had to surpass a certain threshold. Since I performed better than most people, I am now his main agent. "I collect a 20 per cent commission from my boss for every transaction. If my customer buys RM300 worth of numbers, I will be paid RM30. If, say, he wins RM3,000, I will get another RM300 from my boss. The winner will keep his entire winnings." Abe We says his customers are from all walks of life -- wage earners, odd-job workers and government servants. The majority are Malays. Coffeeshops and cafes serve as a place to seal the deal. The term is cash only and everything is paid up front. He's certain the village head and elders are aware of what's going on but they turn a blind eye. "I've never been hauled up (by the authorities). Nobody says anything as almost everyone does it." Kelantan Umno liaison chief Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed said the state government must act swiftly to the New Sunday Times report that exposed a thriving vice industry involving prostitution, drugs and illegal gambling to clean up the image of Kelantan, also known as Serambi Mekah (The verandah of Mecca). "The state's image was somewhat tarnished by the report on a thriving vice industry involving prostitution, drugs and illegal gambling. "Based on the report, we regret that Pas has failed to turn Kelantan into a Serambi Mekah, which is free from immorality. All the vices revealed in the report are unknown to many people in the state. "We hope that this expose will open the minds of the people that Kelantan is not a perfect state, as it has its shortcomings. "Prostitution and other vices which are being carried out openly are not only against religious rulings but also state regulations. "If the state government does not act, then it is just paying lip service and has failed to keep its promises of curbing vices," Mustapa said after chairing the state Umno political bureau meeting here yesterday. Mustapa said according to the report, young girls were forced into prostitution because of family hardship and it was clear that it was an economic issue that had led them astray. "The state government has a responsibility to ensure that youth in the state are protected and given jobs and an opportunity for the sake of their future." He said if Barisan Nasional came to power in the state after the general election, among its priorities would be to ensure that rules and regulations that had been drawn up by the government were enforced. Just an 'app' awayto illicit riches ONCE you've been accepted as an agent, you're given a "starter kit" that comprises a cheap, generic handphone. That's it. There are no fax machines, copiers or printers. A paper trail is avoided like the plague. Installed in the handphone is an innocuous-looking "app" called "WF Puzzle". An agent is given a pre-set code that he keys in when selecting the app. With the code keyed in, the system will let him in and he is ready for business. If you don't key in the code, a harmless game will pop up and you would be none the wiser. For security reasons, the phone is changed once a month. To take bookings, the agent will key in the client's pick of numbers and the amount he wants to bet. The list is then forwarded to the agent. On the surface, the system may look very impersonal but agents meet their clients regularly. There is no conning the clients as word of mouth could kill the business. One agent says the last big win was just before the Chinese New Year. The winner went home RM40,000 richer.

`Battlegrounds will be in Dayak areas' Posted: 30 Mar 2013 05:22 PM PDT "Thus, the Dayak seats will be the focus of fight between BN and PR," he said, adding that the BN component parties, PRS, PBB, Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) and Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP) must unite to repel the Opposition parties in whatever guise they appear. Sulok Tawie, The Sun Daily The battlegrounds in Sarawak in the upcoming 13th general election are the Dayak-majority seats, both Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) leaders agreed today. The Dayaks are forming the majority voters in 13 out of 31 parliamentary constituencies. PRS president and Minister of Land Development Tan Sri Dr James Masing agreed that the battlegrounds in Sarawak will be the Dayak majority areas. "There are 13 Dayak majority seats which are up for grabs," he said, adding that the Dayak areas are perceived to be "grey areas" for both the Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Rakyat (PR). "This means that both BN and PR can win the Dayak seats," he said, adding that there is no clear indication where the Dayak votes will go to in the GE13. "Thus, the Dayak seats will be the focus of fight between BN and PR," he said, adding that the BN component parties, PRS, PBB, Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) and Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP) must unite to repel the Opposition parties in whatever guise they appear. Masing, however, expressed his confidence that PRS will retain all its six Dayak-majority seats – Sri Aman, Lubok Antu, Kanowit, Ulu Rajang, Selangau and Julau – in the GE13. See Chee How, Sarawak PKR vice chairman, admitted that PBB is still the dominance force in the Mala/Melanau areas due to Taib's strong grip on them. "The battlegrounds are the Dayak seats," the Batu Lintang state assemblyman concurred with Masing. He said PR is gaining grounds in these seats because of the BN's policies on land. "The blatant grabs on the native customary rights (NCR) land by the BN government have remained unabated, despite the numerous court cases in favour of the NCR landowners, " See, who represented the landowners in many of these cases, added. He said the London-based Radio Free Sarawak (RFS) has been effective in disseminating information on the "unfair" land polices of the government. PR, especially PKR, has distributed thousands of China-made radio sets to the longhouses and villages so the rural population can hear the "message" conveyed by RFS, he added. "Now the landowners, who are mostly the Dayaks, have awakened up and they are rethinking their support for the BN," commented See, who as a human rights activist and lawyer, has helping the landowners over the last 15 years. He also claimed the Dayaks have been marginalised by the government in terms of allocation of development funds, thus a high percentage of them are living well below the poverty line. He said that the Dayaks can change the political landscape in Sarawak and even Malaysia, given that they are the largest ethnic group in Sarawak. An analysis of the 2011 state election results showed that the Chinese or urban voters were more towards PR while the Malay/Melanau voters, on the other hand, were strong supporters of the BN parties, particularly Parti Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu (PBB) led by Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud. If the 2011 state election results are anything to go by, it is very clear where the urban votes will go to PR in the GE13, and it is almost certain that the majority of the Malay/Melanau votes will go to the BN, particularly PBB. There are six seats where the Chinese form the majority while the Malay/Melanau form the majority in seven seats. Another four seats are considered mixed where the racial compositions of the voters are almost equal. An analysis by the Election Commission showed that the BN in Sarawak suffered a decline in popularity votes from 64.2 % in the 2008 general election to 55.4 % in the 2011 state election. On the other hand, PR's popularity votes increased from 29.2 % in 2008 to 38.9 % in 2011. According to analysis by the DAP, there was a general decline in support among the Dayaks to the BN, with the Iban dropped by 14.1 % and the Bidayuh by 13 %. The DAP said that there was a major shift in support among the non-Chinese, especially the Dayaks towards the Opposition in 2011. It is obvious that the party won in six out of 12 seats in 2011 due to the shift in support of the non-Chinese from BN to PR. The party received increased support from non-Chinese voters in Kidurong (48 %), Kota Sentosa (35 %), Repok (30 %), Piasau (39%), Pujut (35%) and Batu Kawah (30%). If the decline in popularity votes is again registered in the GE13, the BN will lose at least 10 seats to the Opposition. BN leaders like Taib and Masing have both felt that the BN could win two-thirds of the 31 parliamentary seats in Sarawak.

Pakatan can win 12 more federal seats in Election 2013, says Kit Siang Posted: 30 Mar 2013 04:30 PM PDT Debra Chong, TMI Pakatan Rakyat (PR) believes it can bag a dozen more federal seats in Peninsula Malaysia to add to the 125 it needs to trump the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) at the coming national polls. The DAP's parliamentary leader Lim Kit Siang said today the opposition bloc is eyeing 12 seats from "non-BN fixed deposit states" where his party and political allies PAS and PKR had lost by a narrow vote margin in Election 2008. "There is at least one of these BN marginal seats in every one of the non-BN fixed deposit seats," he said in a statement, and added, "Pakatan will target to win half of these seats." He named 14 seats in seven states as "realistic wins" for PR. They are Arau in Perlis; Alor Setar in Kedah; Kuala Nerus in Terengganu; Larut, Kuala Kangsar, Kampar and Lumut in Perak; Bentong, Raub and Jerantut in Pahang, Sabak Bernam and Pandan in Selangor, Rembau in Negri Sembilan; and Bukit Katil in Malacca. The veteran lawmaker said the pact was gunning for 11 other federal seats where the BN had won the popular vote by fewer than 55 per cent.  The include Dungun in Terengganu; Jerlun in Kedah; Padang Rengas, Tambun, Parit, Tapah, Pasir Salak and Bagan Datok in Perak; Temerloh in Pahang; Sepang in Selangor; and Jempol in Negeri Sembilan. Lim said many of the seats he named had seen a significant jump in the number of first-time voters, whom he believed come from the younger generation and were likely to be drawn to PR's policies compared to "BN's scaremongering references to the past". He said that given more time before polls are called, PR's chances of nabbing 12 out of the 25 marginal seats would be boosted.  He said the pact would also be able to defend all 83 parliamentary seats it has in hand now. Lim had previously identified Johor, Sarawak and Sabah as the BN's three "fixed deposit states". The Ipoh Timor MP, who has confirmed he will be moving to his Johor home state and stand in Gelang Patah for polls, also said previously that PR could wrest seven states in Election 2013, after taking five in Election 2008. READ MORE HERE

GE13: The battle starts in the cyber world Posted: 30 Mar 2013 04:19 PM PDT The cyber space will be a key battlefield in the coming elections, but what say its community? Hence, with some 80% of the 3.75 million new voters aged below 40 not counting the "experienced" under 40-voters out of the other 10 million over registered voters in the country it is no surprise that politicians from both divides are doing all they can to woo them. Hariati Azizan, The Star THE frenzy matched that of a rock gig or a k-pop concert depending on one's taste with the "fans" and "stars" moving and cheering in unison to the same beat. The group of social media volunteers sitting near me squealed and giggled with equal excitement whenever a youth leader or an invited local celebrity guest took the podium at the recent Barisan Nasional Youth Cyber Activists Gathering. Self-professed social media addict Zue in a Yuna-inspired blue headscarf shares that she has not done any cyber political activism yet but followed her friends to the gathering to check out the scene. "I'm glad I signed up. Like what YB Khairy (Jamaluddin) said, I am here because I believe in the party and I think we can help them win the elections," says the 26-year-old who follows PM Najib Tun Razak and the Barisan youth leader on Twitter. What issues concern her, then? "The economy and jobs. Prices of things and houses. Safety, crime, freedom to practise my religion... Peace, stability and our independence as a country," she rattles on. It is no exaggeration to say that the political landscape has changed since the 2008 general election. The political enthusiasm and concern for public issues of today's young people seem to have grown somewhat since GE12. A survey by a non-profit organisation Asia Foundation on The Youth Factor: 2012 Survey of Malaysian Youth Opinion, found that a majority of young Malaysians felt that they could effect change in the country. A whopping 69% believe that they have at least a little influence over the government. And unlike the common notion of the revolutionary youth, many do believe in the institutions, with over 80% stating their confidence in the Prime Minister and civil administration. Hence, with some 80% of the 3.75 million new voters aged below 40 not counting the "experienced" under 40-voters out of the other 10 million over registered voters in the country it is no surprise that politicians from both divides are doing all they can to woo them. If used as a one-way street, social media users are quick to turn off and tune out. - DAVID LIAN And with this cohort being the most wired, it is no bombshell that the cyber space has emerged as a key battlefield in GE13. Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz, chairperson of Umno Youth's new media unit, pertinently observes this. "It cannot be denied that the youths will use the social media only for what they are interested in. But come election season, even those who are not interested in politics will be drawn to political newsbites and want to keep up with the developments in the country's political scene," he says. A spirited cyber activist who only wanted to be known as Nabil agrees, declaring he is volunteering to fight for Barisan in the cyber world for his children's future. "We cannot let the Opposition take over and destroy the country. So, like what the PM said, we have to defeat them on their turf the social media," he says. He believes that there has also been a shift in "influence" when it comes to polling. "In the past, young people voted according to their parents' political beliefs. Today, I think parents are influenced by their children when they go out and vote. "For example, my parents and most of my friends' parents actually ask us about the latest political buzz on our Facebook and Twitter," he shares, adding that is what the Barisan cyber troopers are also rallied to do to spread the truth against the "lies" spread by the opposition not just online but also offline. Still, not all young people are swayed by the political onslaught in the web. A postgraduate student who only wants to be known as Jefri says there is too much "noise" and it is making him switch off. "I am going to decide after I hear the candidates speak at the ceramah and see them myself," he says. Social marketing expert Anas Zubedy feels that the political noise conceals the reality that the average young person is unaware of politics and the political leaders. Anas, who conducted his own telephone survey, had written on his blog that his findings convinced him that the "Internet population" would not significantly affect the outcome of the coming elections. "There are too many distractions out there and politicians are not seen as cool...as a consequence, the youth just don't have that drive to fully use the Internet to catch up on current affairs, politics in particular," he concluded. Social media observer G. Yeoh also thinks that the impact of the social media will not be as significant as expected. "I don't think the majority of voters in Malaysia have access to social media. The urban voters yes, but not the non-urban voters. It's simplistic to claim that just because it's the first' time that this tool is being used and it's new'. I have seen in the last GE social media being used in various ways by young Malaysians wanting to make a difference, on their own without binding themselves to any political faction." Yeoh observes that while younger politicians are definitely revving up their presence on social media, not all politicians are using it to their advantage, which is a shame as it is good as a direct connection to their constituents. "It really allows for people to get in touch with them directly. It's nice to be able to tweet with your MP because too often they are placed up on the pedestal. It's nice to know that politicians are human too." Ironically, he points out, that is the key the human touch. He says it does not work when the politicians falsely inflate the number of followers, get their assistants to tweet for them or worse, not tweet at all. That is why politicians like Khairy Jamaluddin, Tony Pua, Abdul Rahman Dahlan, Nurul Izzah and Saifuddin Abdullah have many followers, he says. "They tweet themselves and the tweets are real. And sometimes they make mistakes too. People can tell when another person is real. People don't follow each other on Twitter or Facebook just so they can consume the same old messages churned out by strategists." Crucially, it should not be used for trolling their critics. "Social media is a tool of communication, not a tool to hide behind and to attack your imagined enemies." For many of his peers, the number of followers or likes is just that, a number. As a young voter, Yeoh says, he expects his leader to be honest and real. "It's not a popularity contest. They can claim to have millions of followers or likes on Facebook all they want, but without interaction, those are just numbers." In contrast, digital culture commentator Niki Cheong feels that the numbers do matter. "It is embarrassing for a senior politician to have, say, only 3,000 followers on Twitter. It gives a perception that you are not relevant." Politicians need to find what works for them, he says, and to "just do it!" on their social media accounts. "You need to be constantly engaging with the people." What many do not realise is that it is a community, so you need to be "living" in it. The easiest way is for politicians to make it a part of their lives too, not just a planned campaigning tool. "As a politician, everything you say and do is being recorded, so why not put it out yourself. Instead of just putting your photographs and videos out, you can highlight your meetings, other programmes and activities online," says Cheong. Social media expert David Lian concurs. As the 2008 elections demonstrated, he notes, social media could be used as an effective communications tool and it's good that many politicians have become more engaged on social media. However, he stresses, it should be a two-way communication. "I'd challenge politicians to stop thinking of just using social media for campaigning purposes, but to genuinely engage their constituents. Social media is a fantastic platform to really get closer to the rakyat's needs and to foster a healthy dialogue about our community's issues today. It shouldn't be relegated merely to another propaganda channel. If used as a one-way street, social media users are quick to turn off and tune out." Stresses Lian, young people today expect action and integrity from their political leaders, "I've seen these issues consistently highlighted by young people on social media and it would do politicians well to listen."

GE13: Taking on the opposition in their home ground Posted: 30 Mar 2013 04:17 PM PDT "The UMB is the party's cyber war engine. Its main task is to raise awareness among other party engines about the use of new media and social media networks to deliver information and effectively engage youth who are already exposed to the media," says Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz, Umno Youth exco member and chairperson of UMB. The Star THERE is nothing better than winning in your opponent's home ground!" The rallying cry by Barisan Nasional Youth chairman Khairy Jamaluddin to the 600 over cyber activists at the BN Youth Cyber Activists Gathering recently was loud and clear. "The cyber world is the opposition's home ground as they have been using this platform for a long time. We are the away team' and the cyber world is the most important arena this election." He may be younger and arguably better-looking than Sir Alex Ferguson but one can just imagine the self-professed Manchester United fan doing a "hairdryer" on his (cyber) "players" with his fiery roar. Echoing Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's earlier clarion call to his team to take heed of the cyber pitch in their election tournament, Khairy reiterates that social media is a vital gameplan for Barisan if they want to clinch the trophy and title in the GE13. Like Najib, the Barisan Youth have been gearing up for the cyber warfare for a few years now, ever since they lost the match on that platform in the last elections. Najib who launched his Facebook page in 2009 has amassed some 1.4 million likes on FB and more than one million followers on Twitter. He has since tapped into various technology and mobile applications available like Instagram and Vine. Khairy is no second stringer either in the social media arena with almost 50,000 likes on FB and some 243,000 followers on Twitter. Recognising the importance of engagement with the youth, on the social media networks in particular, he led the setting up of the Umno Youth's New Media Unit (UMB) in 2009. "The UMB is the party's cyber war engine. Its main task is to raise awareness among other party engines about the use of new media and social media networks to deliver information and effectively engage youth who are already exposed to the media," says Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz, Umno Youth exco member and chairperson of UMB. Since its inception in 2009, UMB has been involved in more than 150 programmes nationwide including training programmes, engagement programmes, special operations and talk shows. To consolidate the coalition's social media initiatives, the BN Youth Cyber team was established last August. "Before BNYCT was set up, there was no official platform to coordinate all the cyber initiatives by the cyber engines of the respective Barisan component parties for the coming general election," Tun Faisal adds. The initiative also aims to provide a platform for those on Facebook, Twitter and blogs to interact with other pro-Barisan supporters. "This platform will enable us to reach out to youths in a better manner unlike in the 2008 elections when we did not have a proper online network to address misinformation," he notes. Some 2,300 cyber activists have been trained while the BNCYT have garnered a total exposure of around 700,000 people on Facebook and some 250,000 followers on Twitter. With an eye on the coming general elections, the BNYCT have been busy preparing materials to spread information on Barisan's policies, track record and success stories as well as organising various gatherings with their cyber volunteers. The recent gathering was one of its pre-election mobilisation programmes. Expecting a negative campaign by the Opposition, the BN Youth have also launched Gempak ("Gerakan Menolak Penipuan Pembangkang") a campaign to counter the "propaganda lies" of the opposition. With its catchphrase "Jamunji" ("Janji, mungkir janji" or "Promises, broken promises") the campaign will highlight all the unkept promises by the opposition leaders, especially in the opposition-held states. "It is crucial for us to respond to these attacks with facts and evidence. "But that is not all, the method of delivering these facts is as important in determining whether we can win the hearts and minds of voters," Khairy says at a press conference during the gathering, stressing that the BNY cyber team will not "sink to their level by spreading slanderous information to fight the opposition." Positive sharing of facts and evidence is also a strategy used by slightly older but equally connected politician Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah. "I use social media as a tool for sharing (contents), not just for communicating. So I try my best to put across the issues I want to share, like my "new politics", "youth empowerment", "soul of university", "strengthening co-curriculum", with approaches that are open, casual and, sometimes, humourous." The old style of attacking, or over attacking, the opposition, is not going to convert voters who have made up their mind; and is likely not imaginative in the eye of the middle ground or fence sitters around 30% of the electorate who get most of their political information from social media, says Saifuddin. He believes there is no longer social divide between rural and urban voters. "Even for a constituency like Temerloh where I come from, it is physically 50% rural and 50% urban, but the social media penetration is about 70%, so I don't think there is a digital divide," he says, adding that even in instances where there is no access to cyberspace, there are "enablers" people who share the information that they derive from social media. Crucially, he concedes, the social media has given him an insight into young people's concerns. "People today are no longer discussing only old issues like development, but are adding new issues like freedom and human rights, areas that we still have lots of room for improvement." Saifuddin feels that Barisan is much more prepared this time, compared to GE12. "We have enough number of people working on social media (with some 10,000 cybertroopers). But in all honesty, we still need to improve in terms of contents and approach." Ultimately, can all the FB likes and Twitter following be translated into real votes? Khairy is confident. "Sure, there are a few who tick like' or follow us to mock us, but most are supporters. The real supporters we need to mobilise to come out and vote, which we will do through the social media."

‘The case for change is preponderant’ Posted: 30 Mar 2013 03:33 PM PDT Former Umno veteran Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir says his independent party, Parti Ikatan Bangsa Malaysia, supports Pakatan because Malaysia needs change "[We have] poor people in the kampung, longhouse, [the government] keeps on giving them money, and they don't even watch news. So anyone who gives them money, they consider them as the good guys. And they're in the majority." Anisah Shukry, FMT Parti Ikatan Bangsa Malaysia (Ikatan) founder Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir once cut a formidable figure in Umno politics. As the Minister of Culture, Arts and Tourism in 1999 during the Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad era,  and then the Minister of Information from 2004 to 2006 in Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's time, the man was among the most powerful in the country. But in January 2012, Abdul Kadir began making headlines after he accused the ruling party of handing out between RM200 and RM1,000 to voters in previous elections in exchange for votes. He eventually left the party, and has since appeared arbitrarily in the media, with the spotlight focusing on his attempts to have Ikatan be registered under the Registrar of Societies. Speaking to FMT in an exclusive interview, Abdul Kadir explained Ikatan's position in a political arena dominated by two opposing coalitions – the ruling Barisan Nasional, and the loose opposition pact Pakatan Rakyat. "We do not want to officially join Pakatan Rakyat. We'll support what has to be supported, but right now I'm with Pakatan," said Abdul Kadir. "To be frank, now that I've mixed with them, I can see the weaknesses in PAS, PKR, DAP, but I also know the weaknesses in Barisan Nasional. I think the case for change is preponderant; its overwhelming." He said Pakatan had "very bright people" and the pact could not entirely be blamed for its failings in the four states it has been ruling since general election 2008 – Kedah, Kelantan, Selangor and Penang. "A state government can't do much if they don't have the support of the federal government because they don't have the money," he pointed out. Abdul Kadir said he also supported certain aspects of the Pakatan manifesto, such as helping those who deserve it, as opposed to BN's policy which he claimed only enriched a few bumiputeras. "In the opposition manifesto which I like, [it states that it would] help everybody who deserves… So you help the Malays based on the theory of natural justice…You help the poor to come up to the level of the advanced. No need to help the poor based on narrow, racist policies." No hope for Umno to change On the other hand, Abdul Kadir said he did not support Umno because he felt there was no hope left for the party to change. "Six thousand or eight thousand years of world history have proven that all along, if any government stays more than 30 years continuously, the bad habit takes root, deep root, and no way you can change it. "So the bad habits in Umno, in the BN government, have taken root. Even though they talk about fighting corruption, but everyday its becoming worse and worse. No way they can change, no way, unless some drastic realignment of parties, and political forces and so on," he stressed. As for what Ikatan could offer, Abdul Kadir said its focus was to carry on the ideas of Malaysia's founding fathers as well as the concept of "Bangsa Malaysia" – a slogan referring to Malaysians united in peace, justice and harmony. "I believe in Bangsa Malaysia. I really believe in Bangsa Malaysia, when I was minister of culture and tourism, I used that opportunity to work really hard to move to Bangsa Malaysia." But he said he would no longer be contesting in future elections, although he would remain active in politics for the rest of his days through Ikatan. Cash handouts swaying voters However, when asked his predictions on the results of the general election, the political veteran said he was concerned over how cash handouts would sway voters' will. "Based on my own knowledge, the real will of the people, they want to change. But I'm really worried about all this cash handouts, whether it distorts the real will of the people. "[We have] poor people in the kampung, longhouse, [the government] keeps on giving them money, and they don't even watch news. So anyone who gives them money, they consider them as the good guys. And they're in the majority." Last week, Najib had promised that the BR1M programme, which he initiated, would continue to be an annual handout. The one-time cash handouts of RM500 reportedly helped nearly five million families at a cost of RM2.6 billion last year, increasing Najib's approval ratings up to 69 per cent. These past few weeks have also seen the prime minister promising a slew of goodies to the rakyat, including one-off cash of RM500 to all Telekom Malaysia staff, 1,000 individual permits to taxi drivers, pension to staff of government statutory bodies and 20 minutes of free Internet service to the poor. 'Subtle revolts' Meanwhile, the former Umno supreme council member dismissed criticism that he had quietly accepted Umno's "corrupt culture" for 56 years, insisting instead that he had "subtly revolted" since the 80's. "I was already in revolt, even in the 80's, in 1987 I joined Team B. Some became team members because they wanted to [support] Tengku Razaleigh [Hamzah]…But I myself revolted because of this corruption, cronyism and whatnot," recalled Abdul Kadir. He was referring to the two camps in Umno which came into being after former finance minister Tenku Razaleigh challenged Mahathir over the party's 1987 polls. Team B, lead by then finance minister Tengku Razaleigh had reportedly criticised Mahathir, his leadership style and his policies. Abdul Kadir said that even as information minister, he introduced a weekly one-hour programme on RTM where opposition leaders openly debated with BN members on certain topics – an almost unthinkable concept now. "Of course I was attacked by my Umno colleages [for initiating the debate]. I was really attacked. [They asked me:] 'how is it I gave chance to opposition'? "But I said 'no, its good, because [opposition supporters] are watching TV, the government also has an opportunity to explain their position to the other side. If not for that fact, the other side will not watch what the ministers saying." 'RTM airtime for opposition a big joke' He then went on to slam Minister of Information, Culture and Communication Rais Yatim for allowing the opposition a "paltry" 10 minutes on Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) to present their pre-recorded manifestos in the lead up to the elections. "It's a big joke. If I were the opposition, I would just not accept it. It's an insult. If RTM can't be absolutely free, at least six months before the elections, you should open it up…[But] free press to Rais Yatim means 10 minutes. Ten minutes in eleven days," he said, laughing heartily. Rais had said that the opportunity was provided in respect of the country's democratic system, but the opposition pact have since rejected the offer as an "insult." Commenting on this, Abdul Kadir said: "Times have changed and Najib has announced time has changed, and he wants to change, so might as well change. "People tell me, 'why during your time you didn't change [Umno]?' Well, that was during my time, and I did try. But now there's an official policy called 'political transformation', so change. [Don't say], "oh we are free, we give ten minutes to opposition party," he said. READ MORE HERE

Rosmah and black magic? No way! Posted: 30 Mar 2013 03:27 PM PDT To indulge in black magic, one must be mindful of its pantangs and must cleanse one's mind, body and spirit of life's impurities. Can Rosmah do that?  CT Ali, FMT When we write we have a responsibility to tell the truth. At times I wish we could write unburdened by the need to be factual or to maintain a semblance of journalistic integrity – but not to do so would put what we write into the realm of fiction. Fiction and facts swirls in and around Putrajaya – none more so as in and around Seri Perdana. That is why I believe that the story making its round on the Net about Rosmah Mansor dabbling in black magic should never have seen the light of day. For surely it borders within the realms of fiction or at best, half truths. Black magic in the halls of Seri Perdana? Conversing with the spirit world, delving into the world of the supernatural and the occults, removing negative energy and breaking cycles of bad luck? Are any of the rooms in Seri Perdana boarded up so that the Prince of Darkness can make his abode there and call upon all of those dark forces to neutralise Rosmah's enemies and allow her to fulfilled her potential? Another five years in Seri Perdana as FLOM perhaps? Are Friday nights the time to sprinkle salt and black pepper, have mutterings of incantations and casting of spells, with goblins abounds, with the aroma of scented oil and kemayan wafting through Seri Perdana? If Rosmah had any use of these bomohs, surely it is not for their healing services. Would she then be seeking the services of these bomohs ala Mona Fandey – seeking power and wealth? But these are surely the conjectures of an over active Pakatan Rakyat mind or their rabid supporters! Surely not of CT Ali. Consider this! The strict regime To indulge in black magic and be in the company of  bomohs requires one to be mindful of its pantangs (prohibitions) and demands one to cleanse one's mind, body and spirit of life's impurities. Could Rosmah do that? Abstain from meat, rich fatty food and the excesses of a decadent life style (Hermes handbags and shopping trips abroad included!). Rosmah just cancelled herself out of that one. Despite badminton and all the nutritional advise available to her as FLOM, Rosmah is still generously proportioned. How can she maintain the strict regiment of kosher meals required of any proponents of the occults? One must also abstain from having sex or engage in any sexual activities of any genre. Err, susah sikit to confirm but safe to say they (as in Najib and Rosmah) may possibly be able to comply. Have any of you seen Rosmah muttering to herself and then taking a few deep breaths and keep still for 10 seconds (hard enough for her to do even for five seconds what more for ten!)? If you have, then you will know that she may well be into the bomoh 'thing' – perhaps reciting a secret mantra or her bomoh's name  – who may perhaps be Tok Memuri Temu Sarji. Tok Memuri Temu Sarji is a Jerantut-based bomoh who was under the tutelage of an Indian guru and a Thai monk – the ultimate Harvard of bomoh's tutelage if ever there was one. The body and the mind must be clear of any imperfection in thoughts and deeds – easier said than done for Rosmah – both for the mental and physical aspects required. READ MORE HERE

Waytha’s conditon today -21st day of his Hunger Viratham Posted: 30 Mar 2013 02:40 PM PDT   N.Ganesan, Hindraf National Adviser  Waytha Moorthy is completely bedridden today, the 21st day of his Hunger Viratham. For most of the last 20 days he has been mobile but today he is confined entirely to his bed. His speech is very muffled and he speaks only in very low tones. He is extremely weak and is noticeably getting weaker everyday. To end this ordeal the Paktan Government-in-waiting or the sitting Barisan Government needs to take clear notice of this situation and repond to the demands he has made that they  must endorse Hindraf's 5 year Blueprint without any further delay. We hope they do not fail him and the people he represents.

Desperate for Indian Votes, Pakatan Plays Dirty!! Posted: 30 Mar 2013 02:31 PM PDT   BUT, does anyone know that the video being circulated on the internet was taken 5 years ago during his election campaigning periods prior to the GE 2008? And why is that only now this video is being released?   PM Sivalingam  A video has been circulating online on Zulkifli Noordin (MP for Kulim-Bandar Baharu) making sensitive statements that insults the Hindus in Malaysia. What was more interesting is that the 5 minutes plus video ends with an UMNO, Perkasa and 1Malaysia logo, associating the 3 identities to Zulkifli's racist remarks.  BUT, does anyone know that the video being circulated on the internet was taken 5 years ago during his election campaigning periods prior to the GE 2008? And why is that only now this video is being released? Desperate for votes? No more stories to tell and fool the Indians?   He, Zulkifli Noordin was Anwar Ibrahim's henchman in predominantly Malay Muslim majority political campaigns. He was Anwar's lawyer, good friend. PKR is now trying to posteur that Zulkifli Noordin has been a Perkasa and UMNO MP, though in fact Anwar and Zulkifli have been bosom buddies for many years. He also won on a PKR ticket before being ticked off by Anwar's gutterish politics.   Anwar has a lot of explaining to do about his former chum though he is trying very hard to dust his ABIM past. The Indians of Malaysia (majority are Hindus) after playing an important role during the 2008 election in support of Anwar and PKR members such as Zulkifli Noordin demand an apology from the both of them for such a demeaning bigotry message about their religion. A prompt and quick apology will salvage Anwar and his party from facing protest votes from the Indians against his party, rejecting ABIM-like thinkers in totality.

Sabah: Land Below the Winds of Change Posted: 30 Mar 2013 02:21 PM PDT The voting trend speaks for itself: within East Malaysia, dissatisfaction against BN does not necessarily translate into a swing for PKR – unlike Peninsula Malaysia, the party will have to do more than win on 'protest votes' here.  THE CORRIDORS OF POWER  Shashi Karu   Over the online media, the atmosphere is palpable and almost sweating with suspense. As we near election day, bloggers, commentators and the occasional pundits are beating with increasing intensity to the same rhythms of change: "it's now or never", "ubah", "ini kalilah" and of course, how could you not forget, "ABU!" [Asalkan Bukan Umno].   Analysts alike are expecting a repeat of the March 2008 Tsunami, but this time it's back with revenge: Peninsula Malaysia is expected to see bigger gains to Pakatan Rakyat - with the bastions of BN in Negeri Sembilan, Pahang and Johor finally caving in to the 'winds of change'. As the tides of politics continues on its charging path, Anwar Ibrahim inches ever closer to Malaysia's first "opposition" Federal government.    And yet, despite the inevitability of change, many anticipate that these electoral gains may not be enough to provide that much needed parliamentary majority. In pursuit for these last remaining seats, analysts and political strategists believe that the final frontline will be won, or lost, in Sabah - the last fortress of BN's 'fixed deposit'.   Winds of change sweeping Borneo?   As the political oven continues to heat up, we are increasingly seeing the battle fought openly in the sleepy state. Issue that irate Sabahans continue to pervade the news, blogs, and coffee shops: PATI (illegal immigrants), UMNO, underdevelopment, timber corruption, state autonomy, and the list goes on. The unfortunate Sulu incursion and RCI of Project IC has further 'activated' dormant voters, who were otherwise indifferent or fatigued to the politics of the state. It's no surprise then that, with an electorate ripe for change, victory is firmly within the grasps of Pakatan Rakyat - or is it?   Despite the solidified angst against BN, history suggests that this may not mean an easy victory for PR. If the 2011 Sarawak state election is to go by anything, the packed ceramahs, sloganeering crowds and near unanimous aggravation certainly does not translate into votes for the opposition.    A Sarawak down memory lane   Looking back at the recent 2011 Sarawak state election, the much vaunted expectations fell embarrassingly short on election day: opposition gained a total of 15 of the 71 state seats - 12 of which were delivered by DAP and a paltry 3 by PKR. Although DAP saw significant gains in the urban areas, PKR suffered a major blow, losing over 46 of the 49 seats it contested. This is despite an election occurring within three years of the March 2008 Tsunami - with anticipations of that very Tsunami finally arriving in Sarawak. Justifiably, the question that should be asked is 'Why did this happen?' and given the shared geography, history and voter preferences: 'Will this trend continue towards 2013 elections in Sabah?'   Many factors have been flagged but a key reason for the upset, as touted by Pakatan Rakyat leaders, was the failure to agree upon seat allocations; this resulted in multi-cornered fights, allegedly 'splitting' and 'diluting' opposition votes that resulted in a BN victory. However, closer analysis of the voting results shows an overlooked fact: even if multi-cornered fights did not occur, the vote counts indicate that Pakatan Rakyat, namely PKR, would still have lost all but 1 seat in Sarawak. Similar trends were seen in the 2008 Sabah state elections, where PKR failed to come close to any victory in all but 3 seats contested.   A further look at the results show that in many of the multi-cornered fights identified, PKR candidates were out-voted by DAP, local opposition parties and independent candidates - suggesting that the party may be a poor voting alternative, even within opposition. The voting trend speaks for itself: within East Malaysia, dissatisfaction against BN does not necessarily translate into a swing for PKR – unlike Peninsula Malaysia, the party will have to do more than win on 'protest votes' here.   Banking Locally    And yet, there is hope for the party. The few gains made by PKR, provide an insight into how the party may achieve its goals in the Eastern front. In both the Sabah and Sarawak State elections, results indicate that voters were won over by the candidates' ties to their communities, rather than PKR's brand and struggle.  In Sarawak, the election of Baru Bian, See Chee How and Ali Anak Biju, were achieved through their long-known activism in Native Customary Rights and land rights.   Similarly in 2008 Sabah Election, the only PKR candidates that came close to victory (Daniel John Jambun, Awang Ahmad Shah and Jeffrey Kitingan) were supported by their familiarity as long-time serving leaders and activists within their communities. The result show potential - and PKR has the potential to win, but only through banking on the history and community ties of its local leaders.   The PKR Brand   However, looking forward to the 13th General Election, one thing is for certain: the PKR brand by itself does not hold up its weight in East Malaysia. Given the strong parochial and 'regionalist' sentiments of Sabah and Sarawak voters, PKR continues to be viewed as a 'Federal Party' or 'Parti Malaya', especially within the local bumiputera communities.    Indeed the actions of PKR's Head Bureau, sidelining local leadership choices and decision making of its Sabah Branch, has not gone unnoticed: as one independent Sabahan columnist, Erna Mahyuni, opines: "I wouldn't be surprised if Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim attempted to parachute another West Malaysian in to lead Sabah PKR like he did with Azmin Ali. What next? Azmin Ali as Sabah chief minister? If that happens, I am surrendering my passport and moving to the Philippines."   The perception of Sabah PKR as a "toothless body helpless to even choose its leaders" adds fuels to the perception of PKR and Anwar Ibrahim himself is continuing another 'Parti Malaya'. These sentiments may continue to grow, as allegations and aspersions of Anwar's role in Project IC and the establishment of Sabah UMNO continues to resurface. Looking forward, Anwar Ibrahim realises that PKR (and even his own) brand and struggle will not be sufficient to swing votes in Sabah; it comes as no surprise then, that the de-facto PKR leader has opted to pursue an alternative (some might say risky) strategy to Putrajaya.   Hot Cross BNs   Since re-entering the political arena, Anwar Ibrahim has undertaken a major political exercise to resurrect the careers of former Sabah UMNO politicians. The re-entry of these players provides that much needed 'established community history and local leadership experience' that is lacking amongst its existing candidates. The clout of these leaders and their affinity with the local community may reverse PKR's dismal performance in Sabah and Sarawak, particularly in Muslim Bumiputera areas.   However, even this may not provide the sufficient number to reach Putrajaya; as a last remaining arsenal, Anwar Ibrahim is currently engaging with existing Sabah and Sarawak BN politicians to cross over to Pakatan Rakyat. Already 4 MPs have successfully defected, with more anticipated. Indeed mutiny is simmering within the state, as Sabah UMNO's own Salleh Said Keruak (current Speaker of the state's legislature) boasting 'between 8 and 14 BN MPs (out of Sabah's 25 seats) would leave BN'¹.    The strategy is risky, and if successful, will secure Anwar Ibrahim the comfortable majority to form Federal Government; on the other hand if the strategy is unsuccessful (as seen in the Perak 2009 debacle), the crossovers will back-fire disastrously - it will certainly be defining the point of Anwar's political demise.   Reformasi-compromised   Already, the negotiations have soiled PKR's reputation in East Malaysia - they are reminiscent of Anwar Ibrahim own involvement in the infamous 1994 cross-overs, that resulted in the fall of Sabah's independent PBS government - and importantly, UMNO's entry into Sabah. In Peninsula Malaysia, the cross overs may signal that the BN ship is sinking; however, here in Sabah, they conjure up the nightmares of a previous decade.    No doubt with a successful crossover exercise, Malaysia will see a new Federal government - a final victory for more than a decade long struggle for Reformasi. Pakatan Rakyat supporters have argued that the Reformasi goal is so vital, that accepting BN politicians into the fold may be an essential means to a long awaited end. However, from the view of Sabahans and Sarawakians, the cross overs will mean one and one thing only: the same players of BN's long standing politicians will continue to remain within their clout and power over East Malaysia. Yes, the Reformasi dream can be realised federally - but Sabah and Sarawak must be sacrificed under the yoke of its politicians.   Heading towards a PR disaster?   The political exercise has not sat well with local Sabahans, leading to the up-in-arms exit of its crucial local leaders, including the previously mentioned heavyweights Daniel Jambun, Awang Ahmad Shah and Jeffrey Kitingan. Furthermore, the strategy may be inadvertently doing the opposite of it's intent, strengthening the possibility of an ironic 'protest vote' against PKR; recent surveys conducted by Merdeka suggests this may be likely, particularly within Bumiputera communities and younger, professional-working Sabahans.²   If the cross overs are successful, it will place immediate pressure on the remaining Sabah and Sarawak PR politicians: Are they willing to fully embrace BN politicians and parties as equals in Reformasi?  Are they willing to ally and work, with those who they have fought their whole political lives against? Will they be able to put the party's interest, above the Rakyat's interest?   Already we see murmurs within the coalition, with Penang DAP politicians pressing forward an "Anti Hopping Law" and Karpal Singh's ever untimely comments ("The DAP has always been against party hopping"). We may even see local politicians leaving Pakatan Rakyat in protest - as one Sabah DAP State Leader ominously decried: "Why should anyone sacrifice for Anwar's ambitions?"³ Indeed, rather than being the answer, Sabah is turning out to be the source of many questions and doubt for both Pakatan Rakyat and Anwar Ibrahim.    - Shashi Karu   1. US Embassy Cables (Jun 2008, Wikileaks) 2. Public Opinion Survey for Parliament Kota Kinabalu & Penampang (March 2012). 3. US Embassy Cables (Jun 2008, Wikileaks)

SDNU openly champions Native Customary Rights and Lands! Posted: 30 Mar 2013 02:10 PM PDT   Dayaks HAVE rights over 'state lands'.     Vernon Kedit   Surprise! Surprise! It has taken the Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) a week and a half to react to the Global Witness video. SDNU's Vice President Anthony Banyan, in a statement published in the Borneo Post last February, was quite clear that "SDNU has no political affiliation and this is how it should always remain," and I applaud him for his neutrality (see http://www.theborneopost.com/2013/02/25/no-place-for-politics-in-sdnu/). And today, Banyan has kept his word by coming out strongly against the allegations made in the Global Witness video (seehttp://www.theborneopost.com/2013/03/30/dayak-ngos-demand-apology-over-disparaging-remarks/). Based on the report published today, SDNU issued its statement following the SDNU supreme council meeting on Wednesday, which we presume must have been chaired by its President William Mawan, whose other hat is, of course, President of the Sarawak People's Democratic Party (SPDP), a Sarawak based party in the BN ruling coalition with a Dayak majority membership. However, the eye-brow raising statement was released and signed by its Vice-President, Anthony Banyan, and not by William Mawan. Which is intriguing, to say the least. Why do I say intriguing? Well, SDNU did not mince its words. In fact, SDNU used very strong words, and the underlying message behind those words is even stronger. Just to quote several sentences from the SDNU statement: "Whether the remark was designed to put a wedge between the Dayak community, particularly the Iban and the ruling government or uttered naturally by the subjects in the video, we still view such remark as demeaning and deplorable." Thank you SDNU for standing up for the Dayak community and calling a spade a spade. The remarks in the video were indeed demeaning, deplorable, disgusting, humiliating and most shockingly, uttered nonchalantly by subjects related very closely by blood to the Chief Minister. It must have taken SDNU a lot of courage to actually tell the Chief Minister off, in a roundabout sort of way, that it. However, the real meat of the statement came blazing through loud and clear: "We also condemn the remark suggesting that the Dayaks are squatters on state land as it is baseless." SDNU was being polite in using the word 'suggesting'. Datin Norlia Tun Abdul Rahman Yakub did not 'suggest' that Dayaks are squatters. She said it outright. But let's not quibble. The point is that SDNU has publicly declared that Dayaks living on state land are not squatters, and this in itself is a milestone and one that should be applauded by all sensible Dayaks. To put it in a nutshell, SDNU condemns anyone who is saying that Dayaks who live on so-called 'state lands' have no Native Customary Rights, and are therefore, in effect, agreeing with what Pakatan Rakyat has been saying all along. At first reading of the statement, I was quite taken aback. I had to re-read the sentence, to be sure that this was the underlying message that SDNU was sending out. And sure enough, there it was, in black and white. The next paragraph removed all doubts I had. No underlying theme, but an outright clarion call: "We call upon all quarters to stand up for the Dayak community and recognise our rights over land as well as be sensitive towards the feelings of the Dayaks." Nothing can be clearer than what SDNU had just written; "recognise our rights over land." This is an overt and direct statement relating to Native Customary Rights and Native Customary Lands, and follows the precedent set by the celebrated Mabo vs. Queensland Judgment and its implications worldwide where English Common Law overrides Constitutional Law in legal systems that are based on the English legal system. The precedent created by the Mabo Case was applied successfully by Baru Bian in the landmark Malaysian case of Nor Anak Nyawai vs. BPP & Ors, which went to the highest Malaysian court, the Federal Court, TWICE. And both times Baru Bian won. Dayaks HAVE rights over 'state lands'. Yet, the Sarawak Government refuses to accept the Court's decision and continues its policy of alienating ancient Dayak lands.  Based on these very clear words, we can surmise and come to only one conclusion: that SDNU's Supreme Council, made up of several BN senior politicians, has issued a statement that unequivocally says that it now agrees with Pakatan Rakyat's policy on indigenous lands. Now this is why I say it is intriguing because this is definitely news! Big news! SDNU, despite being led by top Barisan Nasional Dayak leaders, are going against the grain and in no small way! YBs William Mawan and his deputy in SDNU, Alex Nanta Linggi, may not have signed the statement but getting their subordinate Vice-President Anthony Banyan to sign the statement is telling. What is William Mawan, boss of SPDP and Alex Linggi, senior member of PBB, exactly saying with the issuance of this very bold statement via SDNU? Are they striking out at Taib through the backdoor? Is this a veiled condemnation of Taib's policies on NCR lands? Most shocking of all, the Women's Wing of SDNU, which is headed by Empiang Jabu, the wife of the Deputy Chief Minister, also gave its fullest backing to the statement. Stunning! Is Jabu now tacitly telling his 'beloved Pehin Sri' that he too is upset by the slur on the Dayaks and that he has finally had an epiphany on the eve of Easter? Are our Dayak 'leaders' finally staging a silent protest against Taib and family?  The plot gets thicker and I am literally at the edge of my seat with excitement! The political landscape is shifting, and it seems clear now why our Dayak leaders did not come to Taib's aid and rescue when the debacle exploded last two weeks ago. The Game of Thrones is afoot in Sarawak and the first very public crack in the polished façade of BN Sarawak's frail unity is now vividly clear, thanks to SDNU's unmistakably refreshing and about-turn statement. And by any account, this is a big crack which Taib cannot ignore and hope will go away. SDNU has spoken loud and clear. Are the daggers finally drawn? We wait with bated breath for the next public reaction from either Taib or Mawan or for that matter, from the self-proclaimed Paramount Chief of the Dayaks, Jabu himself. Mutiny is always fun to watch from a distance.

Dompok adamant, wants to surrender IC Posted: 30 Mar 2013 02:05 PM PDT   (FMT) - Nazri Aziz's rejection of calls to revoke and re-issue ICs to genuine Sabahans has again raised suspicions over the current RCI hearing and the government's sincerity.  If not for the invasion of a small village on the east coast of Sabah a few weeks ago by a group of armed Filipinos calling themselves the Royal Army of Sulu, the fate of over a million new immigrants – legal and illegal – would have been settled. They would have all been so thoroughly embedded in Sabah's social fabric that any change to their status would have caused economic and political upheaval in the state that would never be permitted. Even an ongoing inquiry into how hundreds of thousands of them had acquired citizenship during the Barisan Nasional coalition government's rule of the state and how the state's population had exploded as a result, would have had little scope to remedy the lack of harmony. But all that has changed in the past few weeks. It has put two federal cabinet ministers at odds. The trio of Kadazandusun and Murut-based coalition members, Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS), the United Pasokmomogun Kadazandusun Murut Organisation (Upko) and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS), have united to demand that all citizenship papers granted to those in the state be revoked and reissued to only those qualified to be citizens. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Mohd Nazri Abdul Aziz has rejected the demand on the grounds that it would be difficult for the federal government to issue new MyKad for those in Sabah, as demanded by the three KadazanDusunMurut-based BN parties. "It is just a suggestion by the parties, but I feel it is difficult to be implemented …  there are legal implications," he said a week ago. His comments have again raised suspicions about the direction of the current Royal Commission of Inquiry into the issue and the federal government's intentions. But his cabinet colleague, Bernard Dompok, the leader of Upko, is sticking to his guns, knowing that it is an issue that has widespread support among ordinary citizens in the state and perhaps the country. Repeating his call yesterday for the recall and review of all Malaysian identity cards that were issued in Sabah, the Penampang MP said he would take the lead to surrender his identity card or MyKad to the relevant authority. Read more at: http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2013/03/31/dompok-adamant-wants-to-surrender-ic/

`Battlegrounds will be in Dayak areas' Posted: 30 Mar 2013 02:04 PM PDT   (The Sun Daily) - The battlegrounds in Sarawak in the upcoming 13th general election are the Dayak-majority seats, both Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) leaders agreed today. The Dayaks are forming the majority voters in 13 out of 31 parliamentary constituencies. PRS president and Minister of Land Development Tan Sri Dr James Masing agreed that the battlegrounds in Sarawak will be the Dayak majority areas. "There are 13 Dayak majority seats which are up for grabs," he said, adding that the Dayak areas are perceived to be "grey areas" for both the Barisan Nasional (BN) and Pakatan Rakyat (PR). "This means that both BN and PR can win the Dayak seats," he said, adding that there is no clear indication where the Dayak votes will go to in the GE13. "Thus, the Dayak seats will be the focus of fight between BN and PR," he said, adding that the BN component parties, PRS, PBB, Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) and Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP) must unite to repel the Opposition parties in whatever guise they appear. Masing, however, expressed his confidence that PRS will retain all its six Dayak-majority seats – Sri Aman, Lubok Antu, Kanowit, Ulu Rajang, Selangau and Julau – in the GE13. See Chee How, Sarawak PKR vice chairman, admitted that PBB is still the dominance force in the Mala/Melanau areas due to Taib's strong grip on them. "The battlegrounds are the Dayak seats," the Batu Lintang state assemblyman concurred with Masing. He said PR is gaining grounds in these seats because of the BN's policies on land. "The blatant grabs on the native customary rights (NCR) land by the BN government have remained unabated, despite the numerous court cases in favour of the NCR landowners, " See, who represented the landowners in many of these cases, added. He said the London-based Radio Free Sarawak (RFS) has been effective in disseminating information on the "unfair" land polices of the government. PR, especially PKR, has distributed thousands of China-made radio sets to the longhouses and villages so the rural population can hear the "message" conveyed by RFS, he added. "Now the landowners, who are mostly the Dayaks, have awakened up and they are rethinking their support for the BN," commented See, who as a human rights activist and lawyer, has helping the landowners over the last 15 years. He also claimed the Dayaks have been marginalised by the government in terms of allocation of development funds, thus a high percentage of them are living well below the poverty line. He said that the Dayaks can change the political landscape in Sarawak and even Malaysia, given that they are the largest ethnic group in Sarawak. An analysis of the 2011 state election results showed that the Chinese or urban voters were more towards PR while the Malay/Melanau voters, on the other hand, were strong supporters of the BN parties, particularly Parti Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu (PBB) led by Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud. If the 2011 state election results are anything to go by, it is very clear where the urban votes will go to PR in the GE13, and it is almost certain that the majority of the Malay/Melanau votes will go to the BN, particularly PBB. There are six seats where the Chinese form the majority while the Malay/Melanau form the majority in seven seats. Another four seats are considered mixed where the racial compositions of the voters are almost equal. An analysis by the Election Commission showed that the BN in Sarawak suffered a decline in popularity votes from 64.2 % in the 2008 general election to 55.4 % in the 2011 state election. On the other hand, PR's popularity votes increased from 29.2 % in 2008 to 38.9 % in 2011. According to analysis by the DAP, there was a general decline in support among the Dayaks to the BN, with the Iban dropped by 14.1 % and the Bidayuh by 13 %. The DAP said that there was a major shift in support among the non-Chinese, especially the Dayaks towards the Opposition in 2011. It is obvious that the party won in six out of 12 seats in 2011 due to the shift in support of the non-Chinese from BN to PR. The party received increased support from non-Chinese voters in Kidurong (48 %), Kota Sentosa (35 %), Repok (30 %), Piasau (39%), Pujut (35%) and Batu Kawah (30%). If the decline in popularity votes is again registered in the GE13, the BN will lose at least 10 seats to the Opposition. BN leaders like Taib and Masing have both felt that the BN could win two-thirds of the 31 parliamentary seats in Sarawak.

Kelantan after dark Posted: 30 Mar 2013 02:03 PM PDT   (NST) - A SHAM: Kelantan's social fabric is being ripped apart by state govt's apathy KELANTAN Pas' carefully managed image of an Islamic state, free of vice, is nothing more than a sham. In a three-day tour of several main districts, including the state capital Kota Baru, the New Straits Times' Special Probes Team uncovered a thriving vice industry involving prostitution, drugs and illegal gambling. This begs the question: how is it that the team found out about this in three days, when the state government, which rejects everything that is unIslamic, couldn't get a handle on the problem even after administering the state for 23 years? In many of these cases, the activities were conducted right under the noses of the state authorities and local councils. The problem is so deeply rooted in the culture and psyche of the state that children as young as 15 know where to look for drugs and prostitutes. Within half an hour of reaching Kota Baru, the team was shown by a local fixer how to procure pil kuda, the locals' drug of choice. The transaction went off without a hitch, in broad daylight, and along one of the busiest roads in town. (See accompanying story and video.) Under the Pas administration, any form of open entertainment is illegal. Minutes away from Bazar Tok Guru, however, the team found a disco. We heard the throbbing bass of techno beat from inside our car long before we got to the spot. At first glance, it could have been mistaken for a simple shoplot. There was no sign. The only giveaway was the dim green-hued lighting and a sign on the doorway that read "Makanan dan minuman untuk orang bukan Islam". Opening the door, the disco was packed to the rafters. It was almost like one of the countless, third-rate discos mushrooming in Selangor. Multicoloured-lights and the mind-numbing, pounding drone of techno music assaulted our senses. Ladyboys dressed in miniskirts and revealing tops came over to take our orders, almost invariably, they offered us beer. Some of the transexual "waitresses" were gyrating to the music with some of the guests. Several Muslim patrons could be seen swaying to the music while sipping cold beer and revelling in the attention of the ladyboys. The team spent the rest of the night bar-hopping. Tucked away in some faraway corner of Tumpat, a 30-minute drive from Kota Baru, kilometres from civilisation and surrounded by jungle, was a sundry shop with huge wire-mesh doors, a small beat-up table, stacks of eggs and other provisions on one side, a cooler on the other. A small alleyway leads out to the back section where round tables dot the garden and where liquor is served by scantily clad waitresses. If you're looking for more than drinks, a quick chat with the proprietor will get you a massage. Anything extra would depend on how smooth a talker you are and the thickness of your wallet. A short hop down the same stretch of road and we pulled up at another establishment. The owner, a medium-built Chinese man met the team at the gate. He had seen us pull up and park along the main road, along with a sizeable number of vehicles. He immediately said that they could not accept any more customers because they did not have enough waitresses. The demand for this kind of service was evidently high. We got back in the car and headed for Tanjung Mas, where the team had heard about an open air karaoke joint that was popular among locals and was open until 5am. As we rounded the bend, we could hear the strains of a poorly executed goyang Inul made popular by Indonesian dangdut queen, Inul. In the state where the checkout counters of a supermarket are segregated by gender, ostensibly to prevent sexual temptation, the singer's Goyang Gerudi moves sent temperatures and heart rates right through the roof. The patrons, most of whom were middle-aged men, were lapping it up, cheering the singer on. Several elderly women joined in the fun, dancing cheek-to-cheek and mingling freely with other male guests. The team also discovered the growing subculture of black metal and punk rock in a conservative state that already frowns upon traditional forms of entertainment including dikir barat. At an underground gathering of local bands, the common refrain was clearly anti-state government, with The Sex Pistols and Nirvana delivered in heavily Kelantanese-accented English. The second day, the team trolled the streets looking for information on where to find prostitutes. The odds, we thought, would not be in our favour. However, early on, we were told by petrol station attendants, burger sellers, bell boys and 24-hour convenience store clerks that our best bet would be in Jalan Limau Manis and Jalan Gajah Mati, in the heart of Kota Baru. Several hotels, from budget to the more reputable ones, were known to be the favourites of locals looking for sexual gratification. At 3am, as the team cruised along Jalan Limau Manis, we saw a tudung-wearing prostitute together with her ladyboy friend. Both approached our car and initial negotiations began. Keeping an eye on them were two minders positioned near a petrol station, including one stationed across the road in an overwatch position. Their rate was RM150 for a full, 12-hour service. Our talks broke down with the appearance of three cops on motorcycles. Moving on to Jalan Gajah Mati, the team managed to convince two prostitutes, a college student and a high-school dropout who wanted to supplement their income, to come back to our hotel for a tell-all. This came as we failed to get several Thai prostitutes we met in the area to talk to us. (See video and accompanying story.) Initially hesitant, they both agreed, in return for RM300 to be split between them. Our negotiations took place under the faint glow of sodium lighting. Everywhere around us were bunting and posters with the face of spiritual leader Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat, an omnipresent reminder of Pas' supposed Islamic credentials. No choice but to sell body "HOK mudo ado, tua ado, oghe gome ado, hok napok ale ado gok... Ingak nok keno igak, tapi dok, dio gelenya nok maen" (There's the old, government servant, the pious looking... I thought he was going to turn me in but he wanted sex). To Nabilla, 17, her prospects are bleak. Dropping out of school at 15, the fourth child in a family of eight was tired of her existence. Meals were never a regular affair, as farmers, her parents struggled to make ends meet and feed her seven siblings. In a show of selflessness, Nabilla decided to quit school. In the early part, she tried to look for jobs to help her parents out but in her village in the district of Kuala Krai, jobs, if any, were hard to come by. She hung out with her friends for a while -- mostly dropouts, too -- before trying her luck in Kota Baru, at the insistence of a friend. She bunked in, rent-free at the friend's place and tried to look for jobs, A waitressing opening paid RM400 a month but the schedule was gruelling, the work back-breaking. Another offer was at the local supermarket, it paid RM50 more but Nabilla decided to go with the waitressing job. It provided free meals. Being young and vivacious, the male customers tried to get her attention, offering a good time, fun and money. She didn't take the bait but noticed that her housemates were bringing home strangers. They would disappear behind closed doors. These girls were well dressed and could afford to pamper themselves once in a while. Nabilla wanted in, too. A chance meet with a middle-aged man at the restaurant where she worked, led her to the world of prostitution. In just a few short months, she was making RM1,200 a month, a sum which a school dropout could only dream of. "I am young and pretty, I still have many more years ahead of me. If those in their 20s, 30s and even 40s can be in demand, I think my prospects are good. "I have been doing this for less than a year. Many I know can earn up to RM2,000," her tone at mentioning the amount, indicating that this was her target. Julia's story echoes Nabilla's. Driven to vice by economics, the 19-year-old began to offer her services as soon as she entered a private skills-training college. Her parents made it clear that they could not fund her college education after she barely made it through her Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia. Julia's steely determination masks the pain she goes through every time she turns a trick. Her ultimate goal is to break free from the shackles of poverty and change her life -- for herself, her sisters and parents. "If by doing this, I can change my life, then it's a sacrifice I'm willing to make."

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