As September 16 Grows Near, COINCIDENCE occurences increase

September 16 is very near. Just one week away from the Big Day. Malaysia will probably witness its most significant event in 51 years, the change of government. As the date draws near, many strange incidents begin to unfold.

Study Trip ( Lawatan Sambil Belajar )
Barisan Nasional (BN) suddenly sends its own Members of Parliament for a study trip, "Lawatan Sambil Belajar" to Taiwan. The congregation is not exactly small, as it was reported in the papers, 50 of them. BN has a total number of 140 members in the Parliament, 50 would account for slightly more than one-third (1/3) of BN MPs.

Now, wouldn't that be a big waste of taxpayers money? BN was smart enough to reply the trip is "self-funded". Hearing that, I am still unhappy. Now, why would it be the case since it is not stated as taxpayers money? Perhaps, I am confused with the term "self-funded". Maybe, I am curious as to where the "self-funded" money would come from if it is not from the taxpayers fund. Perhaps, the money of the individual or party. Now, where did the money of the party come from?

The cost aspect would be the least of the concerns. Reporters were smart enough to question the timing of the massive study trip tour. Was it because of potential party hoppers to Pakatan come September 16? "No, no and no" was the answer.

It is just a COINCIDENCE.

What can I say?

DNA Bill
Not to mention there is a DNA Bill being tabled. Some people regarded the way it is being tabled as quite rushed. Suddenly, the MPs are concerned about solving crime using DNA. I am sure it is not about Anwar although there is a Sodomy charge against him ten years after a different charge back then in 1998. Yes, I am working very hard to convince myself.

Maybe, it is just a COINCIDENCE again.

What can I say?

Ahmad Ismail and "Squatters"
Finally, there is this "classic hero" who purportedly said Chinese are "squatters" during the Permatang Pauh by-election. Perhaps, with other attached statements, I am starting to entertain the idea that this is his way of getting support from the non-Malays for his party candidate. How ironic.

Ahmad is not willing to back off from his statement. Najib apologised and said UMNO is not involved in the matter and it was made of personal capacity. Abdullah keeps on asking Ahmad Ismail to explain the issue although the party has yet to decide to take any harsh action on that person.

Suddenly, the Armed Forces chief said "Racial issues can create chaos" and made some suggestions. It is not common for the Armed Forces Chief to utter such public statements on civilian issues.

Perhaps it is by COINCIDENCE that he wanted to say something on this. Oh, what can I say?

Gerakan, MCA and "Squatters"
Gerakan, which is a Barisan Nasional component party, has become quite vocal on this "squatters" statement. Readers and Malaysians should consider this : Did anyone compare Koh Tsu Koon's reaction on the Hishamuddin keris waving issue pre-12th General Election (pre-PRU12) and the "squatters" statement issue post-12th General Election (post PRU-12)?

Which reaction is bigger? The former or the latter? In my opinion it is the latter. It should be noted that Koh is a Member of Parliament pre-PRU 12 and no longer one post-PRU 12.

Wanita Gerakan issued a statement urging the sacking of Ahmad Ismail. There are recommendations to use the Internal Security Act (ISA). Malaysiakini and The Star has the story.

Malaysians should be reminded that Internal Security Act is a draconian act. Suspects can be imprisoned indefinitely. It is mind-boggling that Wanita Gerakan would make such a proposal. As a Malaysian, I will not support Wanita Gerakan's call to impose ISA although I disagree with Ahmad's words. Why did Gerakan propose the draconian ISA?

As Mind-boggling as it is, perhaps, it is by COINCIDENCE again that somehow they get that idea.

I doubt Gerakan Penang breaking out of Barisan Nasional will have any significant impact on Barisan Nasional. If we are viewing from the Federal Government perspective (after all, September 16 is all about that), the impact is even lesser. Gerakan is completely "wiped out" in Penang during PRU-12. It's other Federal MPs come from other states, therefore severing ties from the Penang state level is not entirely fruitful to wake UMNO up.

Furthermore, since Gerakan Penang has no significant number of MPs, it has nothing much to lose. Is it by COINCIDENCE that this move will probably restore some lost credibility on Gerakan Penang among Penangites? If Gerakan is sincere in making its points known, perhaps it should consider to entirely move out of Barisan Nasional from all areas. After all, severed ties in any state can be easily mended.

As for the party called MCA, which has the representative term "chinese" affixed in the middle of its name, its response to this issue is quite unconvincing. Gathering signatures, press conferences and issuing "warnings of severing ties with Bukit Bendera UMNO" are totally ineffective to improve the party's image, which may be perceived in my opinion, as lack of courage.

Comparatively, although as an overall both are not effectively convincing, the least of all, Gerakan Penang took the drastic move. Gerakan executed from the state level whereas MCA only warns of cutting ties with a tiny constituent, Bukit Bendera. Deeds are better than words and indeed, Gerakan Penang performed as spoken.

Conclusion
September 16 is very near and it seems that COINCIDENCES are abundant. I did not believe Anwar when he initially uttered the potential of getting a new government by September 16. My skepticism prevailed until recently. I mean, with so many COINCIDENCES happening, it must really mean something, right?

Could those be the signs?

Note: If the words "Warganegara Malaysia"appear on your authentic National Registration Identification Card and you are born in Malaysia, then that shows that you are a "Malaysian citizen" and not a "Malaysian squatter / immigrant".

I would like to call for all Malaysians : Malays, Chinese, Indians etc. to respect and refrain from using sensitive labels on each other although we may dislike what others have said.

Khairy in America, To Hound or Not To Hound ?

Segment 1
Umno is not racist, says Khairy according to The Star on Monday, August 6, 2007

Key points extracted from the article:
1) Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaludin has refuted allegations by the Opposition that the movement practises racism.

2) “I don’t understand how the accusation come about – calling us racist. In fact, Umno always emphasises on the power-sharing concept and history has proven it."

3) “How can we be racist, when we are defending equality?”
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Segment 2
However, few days before the statements above, Khairy purportedly mentioned that "Anwar is a traitor to Malay cause". The Star reported on Friday, August 3, 2007.

Such political accusation on Anwar Ibrahim, the ex-UMNO Youth president turned Opposition Party Leader Parti Keadilan Rakyat is understandable. After all, politics is all about rhetorics, perceptions and in-your-face claims. The most surprising part of all comes from an alleged link between Anwar, a foreign state and a foreign nation as stated by Khairy:

1) “Anwar is a PUPPET of the United States and the JEWS, thus HE MUST BE HOUNDED until there is NO MORE PLACE FOR HIM TO RUN TO,” he told a state UMNO YOUTH GATHERING on Wednesday night.

2) Among the 5,000 PEOPLE PRESENT were the wing’s former chief Datuk Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also Deputy Information Minister, and Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mohd Tajol Rosli Ghazali.

From Dictionary.com , the word "Hound" means:
7. to pursue or harass without respite
8. to incite to pursuit or attack; urge on.

From Dictionary.com , the word "Racism" means :
2. a policy, system of government, etc., based upon or fostering such a doctrine; discrimination.
3. hatred or intolerance of another race or other races.
________________________________________________________

Segment 3
In a Malaysiakini letter, Dr Chris Anthony asked "Why bring in the Americans and Jews?"
" His motive is clear – to garner the support of the Malays for the election ....

... According to Anwar, the NEP only benefitted the rich Malays. The rich were getting richer and the vast majority of the Malays continue to remain poor. In fact, with the escalating cost of living they are getting poorer. What Anwar actually wanted was for the benefit of the Malays in general. Does that make him a traitor to his race? Why bring in the Americans and the Jews? ... "
________________________________________________________

Analysis: Stereotyping and Immaturity
Dr Chris Anthony, (read above, Segment 3), staed that Anwar was probably striving for equality for the poor Malays. At the same time, the non-Malays should be assured that they will be treated fairly and have a place under the Malaysian flag. Such is the good concept of sharing.

It is unclear on how Khairy is "defending equality and not being racist" by relating Anwar with another race (the Jews) and therefore should be hounded. Does it justify that a person should be hounded if he or she sides with the Americans and Jews? What if the person supports good ideologies from the Americans such as freedom of speech, democracy and battle against corruption?

Condemning Anwar is understandable from the political context. Khairy is from a competing party. Why bring in the Americans, Jews and harp on such context?

Indeed, one cannot deny that America and certain Jews in this world have executed certain actions that are not good for the world community. There are corrupt Malays, Chinese and Indians in this world as well. Is it appropriate for us to stereotype that "All Malays are Corrupt", "All Chinese are Greedy" and "All Indians are Liars"? If you have a terrible boss who is a female, would you summarise that "All Female Bosses are Tyrant"? The 911 tragedy in US of A and several world cities were bombed by Muslims. Can we say "All Muslims are Terrorists?

We should not stereotype people just because of a few bad apples. Just there are bad Americans, bad Jews, bad female bosses, bad Muslims, bad Malays, Chinese and Indians, the good ones exist as well.

As a mature person, one should react based on issue. Immaturity leads to disaster.

Analysis: Hate America or Love America?
Khairy Jamaluddin describes his lovely "babymoon" in United States : The one and only... soon, please ( NST Online, 10 August, 2007 )

Read what he has to say about America in NST:

1) "Our "babymoon" took us to Japan, where I grew up, and then to Southern California which has the best weather in the world. "

Wow, now he thinks America is beautiful !

2) " So Mr Jobs, please iron out the kinks quick so that I can be true to myself and just have the iPhone as my one and only. "

Ohh, how sentimental, how touching, my one and only. Mr Steve Jobs, the owner of Apple and iPhone is an American.

Certainly ironic. Perhaps, Khairy forgot the powerful words he said a few days before his American vacation (Segment 2) : "Anwar is a PUPPET of the UNITED STATES and the JEWS, thus HE MUST BE HOUNDED until there is NO MORE PLACE FOR HIM TO RUN TO".

Khairy and his wife chose to have their vacation in the Land of America, where Jews abound and "puppets creator" run. Maybe, Khairy should look for the "Master of the Puppet". Solve the problem from the root. So, Khairy, to hound or not to hound?

Currently, this blogger has yet to read or hear any mainstream media highlighting any UMNO participants (5,000 attendees) condemn or express dissatisfaction over Khairy's shocking statements (Segment 2). Khairy is one of the most important leaders in UMNO Youth.

Readers can decide for themselves on this meaning of silence. Silence must be heard (Title of an song from New Age Dance musical project: Enigma)

Segment 4
Rocky Bru's site reported of an American reader exclaiming a "Revoke KJ's Visa" call. It was mentioned that this e-mail has been mailed to Malaysiakini with this important statement:

If Khairy strongly feels that towards Americans, then he should not be vacationing in the US and buying iPhones, which he recently bragged about in a newspaper article.

Srikanth Siva
Chicago, IL USA.

Happy "babymooning" !

Abolish the Criteria of Race and also Religion in Forms

Jeff Ooi spoke in the 'Re-thinking Malaysia: Media and Civil Society' public forum co-organised by organised by Youth For Change (Y4C) and National Young Lawyers Committee (NYLC), Bar Council.

In his Merdeka 1234 blog entry, it was suggested that forms requiring the entry of ( 1 ) for Malay; ( 2 ) for Chinese; ( 3 ) for Indian; and ( 4 ) Lain-lain for the field of "Race" to be abolished.

I am living in this country which is governed almost entirely based on racial structures. Everything; From the areas of business to education runs from the racial aspect.

As a Malaysian, I am no stranger to racism or in its slightly more polite form racialism. I definitely welcome this move. As you can see, for these past few years, racism has been rampant. There had been the infamous racial incident in Kampong Medan, May 13 threats in meetings, cries of "Supremacy", racist demands in job application etc. etc. Rude and racist statements are also prevalent in the websphere. There are those who call the other race as "pigs" and names which do not belong to the "nice" category.

When I refer to racists, bear in mind that it encompasses all Malaysians, be it Malay, Chinese, Indian and everything in between. I do believe, every single Malaysian has been one way or another do or say something racist once in our life. It is high time for us to change our third-world mentality.

We are now drilling into the weakness of racism rather than capitalising on the strength of multi-culturalism. I agree with Omega Lee who wrote a letter by the title of "Malay-Chinese antagonism won’t serve either side" to Malaysiakini. That is why the economic growth of our country is not exactly good. Foreign investors are shunning our country. Thierry Rommel, the European Union envoy commented on the discrimination policies in Malaysia.

These days, discrimination is not only limited to race. If it's possible, in addition to the original idea, I would like to suggest the abolishment of the "religion" category from all forms as well.

There is no doubt, calls to abolish aspects detrimental to national unity is great. This is not the first time such ideas are tabled and discussed. They sound good in theory but how are these organisations planning to put it into practice?

Still, we are required to fill in our "race" and "religion" in almost all forms nationwide. Failure to comply would mean we are rejected from participating in any events, dismissed from memberships, denied entries into institutions or unable to update our passports, bank books and ICs.

Are Malaysians ready to go through "hell" for that?

Perhaps, these are the main issues that should be addressed. Otherwise, it will all be talk and no concrete plan for effective execution and Malaysia will return to square one.

Singapore and Malaysia: Countries of Elitism and Racism

Malaysian Chinese have always viewed Singapore as a country of meritocracy and non-discriminatory. At least that is what its Prime Minister and Senior Minister proclaim. The imaging and ,multiracial "promotion" attempts by the ruling government PAP make Singapore look tolerant and harmonious from the "face" perspective.

However, going "underneath the skin", deeper research and consensus proved otherwise. Michael D. Barr wrote an essay in Far Eastern Economic Review titled The Charade Of Meritocracy.

Both Malaysia and Singapore share the same issue of elitism and racism . The difference lies with which race is the victim of marginalisation. In Malaysia, some claim the Non-Malays are disadvantaged. In Singapore, the Malays are the victims.

Let's take an excerpt from The Charade Of Meritocracy on Singapore:
" Yet the selection of scholars does not depend purely on objective results like exam scores. In the internal processes of awarding scholarships after matriculation results are released, there are plenty of opportunities to exercise subtle forms of discrimination. Extracurricular activities (as recorded in one’s school record), “character” and performance in an interview are also considered. This makes the selection process much more subjective than one would expect in a system that claims to be a meritocracy, and it creates ample opportunity for racial and other prejudices to operate with relative freedom. "

The writer further added:
" Is there evidence that such biases operate at this level? Unsurprisingly, the answer to this question is “yes.” Take for instance a 2004 promotional supplement in the country’s main newspaper used to recruit applicants for scholarships. The advertorial articles accompanying the paid advertisements featured only one non-Chinese scholar (a Malay on a lowly “local” scholarship) amongst 28 Chinese on prestigious overseas scholarships. Even more disturbing for what they reveal about the prejudices of those offering the scholarships were the paid advertisements placed by government ministries, statutory boards and GLCs. Of the 30 scholars who were both prominent and can be racially identified by their photographs or their names without any doubt as to accuracy, every one of them was Chinese. "

An anonymous writer wrote a letter to Jeff Ooi regarding racism in Malaysia. Below is the excerpt:
" I read about the Malay newspaper editors attacking the private sector for not appointing enough Malays to senior management level, whilst insisting that the government always ensure that Malays dominate anything government-related.

I read about UMNO Youth attacking the so-called meritocracy system because there are less than 60% of Malay students in law and pharmacy, whilst conveniently keeping silent about the fact that 90% of overseas scholarship recipients are Malays and that Malays form the vast majority in courses like medicine, accountancy and engineering at local universities.

I read about UMNO Youth accusing Chinese schools of being detrimental to racial integration, while demanding that Mara Junior Science Colleges and other residential schools be kept only for Malays.

I read about the Higher Education Minister promising that non-bumiputera Malaysians will never ever step foot into UiTM. "

While Malaysia looks more aggressive in its approach, the method adopted by Singapore is certainly more refined. The root of discrimination in Malaysia is obviously rooted in its administrative policies and rules whereas the Singapore system work in multi-layered cloak of disguise.

In terms of elitism, I am sure those interested in Malaysian affairs would know the terms "crony capitalism" and "Ali Baba business". Both these terms are used to describe businesses and awarding of projects to a selected few well-connected to ruling figures.

Michael D. Barr and Zlatko Skrbiš provides evidence in their book "Constructing Singapore: Elitism, Ethnicity and the Nation-Building Project" on their claim:
" Singapore’s administrative and its political elites—especially the younger ones who have come through school in the last 20 or so years—are not the cream of Singapore’s talent as they claim, but are merely a dominant social class, resting on systemic biases to perpetuate regime regeneration based on gender, class and race. "

That makes Singapore not much different from Malaysia in the racial sense. Different approach, same outcome.

I was in Singapore last weekend to shop. I had used the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) train Senandung Malam service from Malaysia and managed to take a Singaporean cab. Despite hearing rumours from Malaysia that Singaporeans look down on Malaysians, I had a good chat with the driver on our way to the hotel. We passed through one of the places where an old building was being demolished to make way for a new one. He informed me about it and gave this remark in a slightly not pleasant tone "So much has changed in Singapore but why doesn't our government change !". Another Singaporean friend who acted as a tour guide made comments of similar colour.

Surfing through the net will make you notice numerous Malaysian-owned blogs complaining profusely about the incompetent government and its shortcomings.

The National Economic Policy (NEP) which was supposed to expire last year was prolonged indefinitely. It's original intention of being meant to eradicate poverty is now a myth. Only those well-connected are advantaged by it. Perhaps, Singapore's meritocracy is a hoax, according to Michael D. Barr.

These days, leaders of both countries have been capitalising on racial sentiments to garner support and stay afloat politically. Lee Kuan Yew mentioned that Chinese were marginalised while the Malays in Singapore are victims. As for Malaysia, leaders brandish May 13 books and waving keris while shouting "Malay Supremacy" in general assemblies.

Why? The people starts to wake up to what they have been promised but deprived.

I refer to a Malaysia Kini letter Malay-Chinese antagonism won’t serve either side. Perhaps Malays and Chinese in both nations should think properly for the prosperity of both Malaysia and Singapore. Racism and Elitism is a killer to the nation. We have seen it happen in United States that led to a massive civil war. Let's not let it happen again.

Let us lead the way of Martin Luther King's dream and realise it in our context.

Malaysian Cows, Politics and Government: Democracy, Bolehland Style

Due to boredom over repeating racist rhetorics from our government, some users posted some funny comments in the article 'The classic divide-and-rule strategy' in Malaysia Today

Let's take a look and enjoy.

nasigoreng wrote:
Cows & Politics Explained

A CHRISTIAN DEMOCRAT: You have two cows. You keep one and give one to your neighbor.

A SOCIALIST: You have two cows. The government takes one and gives it to your neighbor.

AN AMERICAN REPUBLICAN: You have two cows. Your neighbor has none. So what?

AN AMERICAN DEMOCRAT: You have two cows. Your neighbor has none. You feel guilty for being successful. You vote people into office who tax your cows, forcing you to sell one to raise money to pay the tax. The people you voted for then take the tax money and buy a cow and give it to your neighbor. You feel righteous.

A COMMUNIST: You have two cows. The government seizes both and provides you with milk.

A FASCIST: You have two cows. The government seizes both and sells you the milk. You join the underground and start a campaign of sabotage.

DEMOCRACY, AMERICAN STYLE: You have two cows. The government taxes you to the point you have to sell both to support a man in a foreign country who has only one cow, which was a gift from your government.

DEMOCRACY, MALAYSIAN STYLE: You have no cows, but the government has two. The Cabinet has a meeting as what to do with the cows. After a lengthy debate, it was agreed that the two cows be given to your poor neighbors on a pawah system. Before the meeting ended, the Pak Lah reminded Muhyiddin the Agro-Industry Minister to make sure that the cows have their rumps (buttocks) branded with ‘UNDILAH BN’ and ‘SATU LAGI PROJEK BN’.
18/05 20:23:48

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shiver wrote:
nasi goreng, to add to your cow & politics explained for malaysia.

DEMOCRACY, MALAYSIAN STYLE: The two cows was with one race, then they were forced to give one cow away for many years, and now they realized that the first cow wasnt productive so they plan to hold the cow longer while demanding for the 2nd cow. Parliament discuss in length what to do with the cows so that the cow's milk can be protected. However, the cow's milk price has gone down but the Govt has not said anything about the price of milk and have kept quiet on that. And then when there is a by-election, one of the cows is promised to the people with the promise of free milk.

Finally, now that the two cows are nearing the age of dying, they looked for more cows overseas to joint venture with them.

---50 tahun, dah cukup lama la tu...---
18/05 21:36:46

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Sagaladoola (that's me) wrote:
Hahaha ... I have to add too...

DEMOCRACY, BOLEHLAND STYLE:
Got two cows. One cow government say must reserve for one special group. One cow government say reserve for a non-special group.

One cow, government say all the free milk will give to the poor. End up, out of 100% milk only 5% go to the poor. Where did the rest of the 95% go? No one knows.

Someone from government come out and pull the bull around. Bull starting to shit. So smelly. Then force this 'special' cow to perform, have to come out 110% milk. Found out 'special' cow guardian is special friend of the government. Very 'healthy' fat guy but dunno how to take care of 'cow' (inefficiency).

People make noise. Government say OK OK, Semuanya OK. Take the other 'non-special' cow (for another non-special group), Perah sama dia cukup-cukup. Perah, perah, perah, milk until this non-special cow half-dead to get 110% milk. The 'non-special' group get only 10%, the rest of the milk go back to the Government.

But then, at the end the poor and non-special people still dun have enough milk. Government blame non-special group for not sharing milk.

Where did the 'non-special' group's milk go? Where did the milk for the cow go? No one knows. The one who knows may have to answer to Jesus's Malay name: I.S.A. The milk is not there, but the bull is there, shit some more. What is the shit of a bull called? Bullshit. Hehehe.

So, everyone fight lohh.... but who is rich? Siapa yang kaya? Hidup dalam Istana dengan jual satay saja? Who is sleeping, but can possess stables of cars and rows of international houses?

The poor becomes the peasants and non-special group becomes pariahs. They can keep on fighting until cows come home while the Fat Lady and friends stay rich "dahulu, kini dan selamanya" (past, now and forever and ever), "dulu, sekarang dan masa depan" (past, present and future).

Hehehe.
19/05 18:46:48

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:-D

Racial Riot 13 May 1969: Malays' 513 Experience and More Appetisers for Dr. Kua's Book

In tandem with the recent 'illegal confiscation' of the legal 13 May 1969 declassified documents book from MPH Mid-Valley, there is much hoo-hah and interest with both the book and the tragedy itself in the blogsphere.

Before I proceed, let's taste more appetizers from the book "MAY 13: Declassified Documents on the Malaysian Riots of 1969" by Dr. Kua Kia Soong

Link: http://nooryahaya.blogspot.com/2007/05/commemorating-13-mei-1969.html

However, I do not quite agree with her view of the actions of Robert Mugabe as being justifiable. I do not agree that the way the perpetrators launched the offensive in 13 May 1969 just because certain quarters are poor as being justifiable.

I do agree that no one, regardless of race should be left in poverty in Malaysia. The execution on such eradication must be through proper non-violent channels.

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I have read much about non-Malays' personal accounts and experiences (Malaysian Unplug blog) in 13 May 1969. It is time to read more from the Malays perspective. If anyone has some ideas, thoughts or hearsay, please e-mail me at lemmonate@gmail.com or post in the comments section of this article.

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Collection of "13 Mei 1969" experiences by Nooryahaya

Excerpt:
“Apa punca asal 13 Mei tu tok?” I asked.
“Alah, Parti Pembangkang Gerakan, parti orang Cina menang 14 kerusi kat Selangor, jadi, dia orang Cina eksen buat perarakan kat Kuala Lumpur. Dia orang laung “Melayu balik kampong!”, itu yang orang Melayu marah tu."
“Tiga hari kemudian, askar Gurkha kelilingi KL atas lori ‘Raja tembak! Raja tembak!’ Lepas tu okaylah, aman."

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"May 13 - Before and After"Excerpts of this book by (the late) Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first Prime Minister of malaysia, published in September 1969 May 13, 2003

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Below is an excerpt from Marina Yusof's comment in 1999. She was (or is) from the Opposition Party Parti Keadilan Rakyat during the height of the 'Reformasi' movement.

Hishamuddin Hussein (from UMNO) alleged that Marina Yusof had said some seditious remarks which warranted for a police report by invoking the Seditious Act. It is a strange thing that no one from UMNO was penalised (using Seditious Act) when Hishamuddin waved the keris frantically with some remarks from delegates asking him 'when the keris would be used?' and 'bathing in blood'. One ponders, is UMNO made to abide the Malaysian Law or Malaysian Law made to abide to UMNO? Below is Hishamuddin's claim on Marina Yusoff's words:

"Mahathir is trying to frighten the Chinese that if BN loses there will be a May 13. But I want to ask, why be scared? If the Barisan Alternatif comes to power we will arrest him (Mahathir) if he causes trouble. I want to tell the Malays, Chinese and Indians, the cause of May 13 was started by UMNO and Selangor led by Dato’ Harun. So, those Chinese who support the Barisan do not think this is good because in the past UMNO, which is in the Barisan, killed Chinese. The Chinese must note that we do not want to create trouble, we do not want turmoil in the country, we do not want our children killed. This is Mahathir’s final threat. He wants the Chinese to be frightened that there will be trouble, business will decline and their children’s safety will be in jeopardy. We give a guarantee that if all the Chinese support us we will look after their safety. We want the Chinese in the Chinese areas to look after the Malays, and the Indians in the Indian areas to look after the Malays. We do not want to segregate the Malays, Chinese and Indians. We want a Malaysian race."

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Raja Petra Kamaruddin of Malaysia Today shared his experience and views on that tragedy.
Link: http://malaysia-today.net/blog2006/holds.php?itemid=3737

I would like to bring the attention to an excerpt from his article:
" But don’t blame the Chinese. Don’t blame the Malays. Don’t blame the Indians either. Blame all three; the Malays, Chinese and Indians. All are to be faulted. All must be blamed. And blame the gangs and secret societies for enforcing this segregation and territorial wars. And blame the government for losing control of the streets to the gangs and secret societies. "

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Sang Kelembai with his "Rusuhan 13 Mei atau peristiwa 13 Mei" article
Link: http://sangkelembai2006.blogspot.com/2007/05/rusuhan-13-mei-atau-peristiwa-13-mei.html

"Ini memberikan gambaran, yang membawa isu perkauman sempit adalah UMNO itu sendiri. Mereka ketakutan akan kehilangan kuasa dalam masa sama dia cuba membina UMNO sebagai satu entiti berjuang untuk Melayu tetapi bilangan Melayu yang berkhianat kepada Melayu banyak terdapat dikalangkan orang yang memakai lencana UMNO."

"Masih ingat lagi peristiwa 13hb Mei di depan Jalan Raja Muda, Kampong Baru dan masih terbayang Dato Harun Idris berucap di atas bumbung Bas Sri Jaya. Pembohongan besar jika dikatakan pada petang itu tentera telah masuk ke Kuala Lumpur hanya selepas darurat diisytiharkan lalu RAMD membuat khemah di dua buah bulatan di Jalan Ipoh iaitu persimpangan Jalan Pekeliling dan Jalan Pahang persimpangan Jalan Tuanku Abd. Rahman. Elok rasanya kerajaan lepaskan rakaman filem rusuhan 13Mei yang tersimpan di Filem Negara Malaysia untuk tayangan umum... segalanya ada di situ."

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MAHAGURU58 aka Zainol Abideen attended the book launching. He said something which I truly agree on.

Link: http://mahaguru58.blogspot.com/2007/05/may-13-1969-lest-we-forget-what-racial.html

Excerpt:
"As a Malaysian, I pray that our nation does not have to see a repeat of such a massacre ever taking place here again.Idiots in politics however seem to love stirring up trouble every now and then in our Parliament and in the online websites.

The key to that is of course - mutual respect and commonsense to prevail to those who can think rationally with their God given brains unlike some idiots we see jumping up and down in this nation's House of Parliament. I seriously hope the idiots will never be voted back to power in the next GE!"

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For Malays and non-Malays alike, please post your experiences and comments below or e-mail to me @ lemmonate@gmail.com .

Racial Riot 13 May 1969: Personal Experiences, 513 Book Appetisers and Declassified Documents

The Star Online reported that Deputy Insternal Security Minister Fu Ah Kiow claimed the 'illegal seizure' of the book 'May 13: Declassified Documents on the Malaysian Riots of 1969' )written by Dr. Kua, published by Suaram) from MPH Mid-Valley was for the intention of 'studying' whether it would cause disruptions to social order.

Whoi, pay for the books lah! If you are supposed to study the book, you should buy it formally instead of 'illegally confiscating' 10 books. MPH is running a legitimate business for your information !

Why do we term it as 'illegal confiscation'? Does that mean the book is 'illegal'? Hell, no. The book has a permit. Any stores, person or organisations can sell it legally. Only banned books are illegal. The book is not banned. Dr. Fu Ah Kiow can stop pulling the bull around.

This is a poor justification from Dr. Fu Ah Kiow's side. Rumours circulated that MPH was told not to sell that book as well. Why Dr. Fu? Is that how a 'study' should be conducted? Hell, no !

After all these years, freedom to speak and write is still very much limited in Malaysia. Pessimistically, I would say the government would eventually ban this book.

There is a press statement by Dr. Lim Teck Ghee on book confiscation

I am a third generation Malaysian. Much had been said about May 13, but all were one-sided stories. I really want to know. I mean there are MPs from UMNO like Badruddin_Amiruldin who brandished another book on May 13 incident while declaring, "if it were disturbed, these hornets will strike and destroy the country," receiving what one observer described as "rapturous applause" from the assembly.

I need to learn. I really need to know.

How can I be sure that this books is not lopsided? I am not sure. It is said that the "declassified documents" reproduced were written by British High Commission and foreign press. I am sure there should be a certain level of truth in it.

Prior to this, Malaysia Today published some articles. Readers shared their experiences. Some sent letters to Malaysia Kini. The blog Malaysian Unplug have summarised them with reference links. Appetisers to the content of the RM20 book is available as well:

http://malaysianunplug.blogspot.com/2007/05/must-read-article-legacy-of-may-13-1969.html

http://malaysianunplug.blogspot.com/2007/05/may-13-1969-personal-accounts-and.html

Read them. If you try to look for the books in major bookstores or Suaram in Malaysia, your effort will be wasted. The first 1000 copies were sold out in a mere 2 days after launching. The publishers are frantically doing a reprint before an official ban, I believe. You can try your luck by ordering online here:

http://www.kinibooks.com
http://www.gerakbudaya.com

I am buying one. Try to learn up about May 13 so that some 'culprits' in the Parliament cannot use it as a basis for intimidation anyone anymore.

After all, KNOWLEDGE IS POWER. POWER TO THE PEOPLE !

JJ and the Moorthy Sisters: No Formal Apology Yet !

I am apalled and shocked !

I thought Jamaluddin Jarjis (JJ) had apologised personally to Sheela / Sheena Moorthy !

I didn't know that until I accessed Mr. Lim's blog. I checked that some visitors came from his address and came to this shocking realisation.

Mr. Lim Kit Siang wrote the article " Jamaludin Jarjis - stop censoring the press and be man enough to make public apology to Sheena Moorthy " in his blog.

Link: http://blog.limkitsiang.com/?p=229

Dr. Sheela responded to Mr. Lim on the 'apology given' issue:
Well, neither me nor my sister have received a formal apology from him. There are rumors circulating that he apologized and I saw them on some blogs, so all I know is what the rest of you also know. I have also NOT received any news from any of the officials that I have written to.

She added:
I agree the problem my sister and I have highlighted might be the tip of the iceberg of all the misconducts going on in our country but people have to learn to stand up for their rights and beliefs, politics aside. It just goes to show the basic upbringing we have had.

I am ashamed of how this whole issue was handled or mishandled I should say. I would like to hear the PM’s say on this. Does he think it’s funny too??? Please remind yourself that the world is watching and to just ignore issues like this just paints a BAD picture internationally. My colleagues are already questioning the integrity and sincerity of a Government that condones such behavior.

Apparently, Dr. Sheela had written complaint letters to Pak Lah, several Ministers, especially the chief representative of Indians in Malaysia, MIC president, Samy Vellu.

The strange thing is Samy Vellu is still mum over the issue. Isn't he supposed to stand up for the Indian community?

According to the article, Dr. Sheela had given interviews to Bernama, New Straits Times and the Star. None of the interviews were published. Is there a blackout or one-sided censorship of issues in Malaysia? Otherwise, how could this happen?

Dr. Sheela commented that this is “a sorry and scary state of affairs” and “So much for World Press Freedom Day”. I can understand how she feels. Freedom? Come on. Malaysia has almost no freedom for the press. Check out, investigate who owns the major papers in Malaysia. Not to mention, the annual license renewal exercise of Printing and Publishing Review Act does not make it better.

Not only the Press is under threat of unfair censorship. These days, Information Minister Zainuddin Maidin is talking about 'controlling the internet', 'registering bloggers' or 'classifying bloggers' for fear of his so-called 'lies' from the internet. We thought internet would be free. We thought Malaysians are wise enough to think for themselves. Think again !

Coming back to the original story, I have read that JJ had indeed apologised, but not directly to the sisters. It was said in "Rocky's Bru" blog that he did that in a gathering of a few hundreds students but not in the presence of the Moorthy sisters. Sheena was away in Boston at that time.

Link: http://rockybru.blogspot.com/2007/05/jj-apologises-to-sheena.html
Link: http://shanghaistephen.blogspot.com/2007/05/minister-apologises.html

Perhaps, JJ should have apologised in the presence of the sisters. Maybe the government should issue a formal statement.

That would have minimised a lot of confusion or further misunderstanding.

The Moorthy sisters also wanted to make sure that the government condemns racism formally. The government should do something about this. The image of the country is at stake. 2007 is 'Visit Malaysia Year'. What would Americans and Malaysian students perceive Malaysia and communicate to their friends and relatives?

All in all, at least, somehow or rather JJ apologised, a quality missing from most politicians in Malaysia.

Please read my other entries on this issue:
JJ and Sheela/Sheena Moorthy in California: Racism and the Shallowness of Skin Colour
JJ and the Moorthy Sisters: Ministers Should Think Before Speaking
JJ and the Moorthy Sisters: Should We Accept JJ's Apology?

Black Dot 13 May 1969, "513" Racial Riot Revisited

13 May 1969, a Black Dot in Malaysian History.

Malaysian Chinese and Malays clashed on the streets of Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya and several towns in Peninsula Malaysia.

I should have posted these links two days ago on 13 May 2007 in remembrance of this tragic event. One should never forget history, as one would be bound to repeat them.

In light of cases in recent years where Members of Parliaments in Malaysia have a tendency to play with racial cards to trump up support, maybe it is time for us to reflect on 'possible consequences' of doing so.

Sadly, some politicians are immature and not professional by using such risky approach. As a Malaysian citizen, we should be reminded not to fall into these culprits' trap and jeopardise the security and harmony of our nation.

Malaysia Unplug blog has some international magazine 1969 archives on 13 May
Far Eastern Economic Review's 1969 reports:
Link: http://malaysianunplug.blogspot.com/2007/05/far-eastern-economic-review-s-reports.html

Time Magazine 1969 reports:
Link: http://malaysianunplug.blogspot.com/2007/05/time-magazines-report-on-malaysia-in.html

I was not born yet when this tragedy happened. There were not much of mention in history books. The fact that this event matters is because national policies such as NEP and education are built around it.

I do not have much knowledge about this incident. What I can be sure is, whenever sour notes (such as economic downturn) hit the nation, "13 May 1969" also known as "the 513 incident" would be talked about. When the economic pie shrinks, the non-bumiputras would blame the NEP as being unjust. Accordingly, Bumiputras will claim that the non-bumiputras are refusing to share the economy.

Initially, all parties agreed to NEP to reduce poverty in the nation. These days, public saw it as an opportunity for the elite ruling parties to 'enrich the filthy rich', causing much resentment. The Malay politicians, particularly from UMNO would then invoke and remind the Chinese about "513" as a result for the complaints.

Badruddin Amiruldin, the infamous UMNO MP from Jerai brandished a book on the May 13 Incident during an UMNO General Assembly and exclaimed, "if it (NEP) were disturbed, these hornets will strike and destroy the country".

Link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Badruddin_Amiruldin

One thing attributes to the other. Commonly, the Malays blame the Chinese and the Opposition Democratic Action Party (DAP) and the Chinese blame UMNO for 'choreographing' the event. Sad to say, with the minimal lack of evidence, everything is hearsay and one-sided assumptions.

With that in mind, it is good that Raja Petra Kamaruddin of Malaysia Today shared his experience and views on that tragedy.
Link: http://malaysia-today.net/blog2006/holds.php?itemid=3737

I would like to bring the attention to an excerpt from his article:
" But don’t blame the Chinese. Don’t blame the Malays. Don’t blame the Indians either. Blame all three; the Malays, Chinese and Indians. All are to be faulted. All must be blamed. And blame the gangs and secret societies for enforcing this segregation and territorial wars. And blame the government for losing control of the streets to the gangs and secret societies. "

Perhaps, whenever "Civil War" happens, everyone involved should be blamed.

Dr Kua Kia Soong has written a new book, "May 13: Declassified Documents on the Malaysian Riots of 1969 (Suaram: Kuala Lumpur, 2007)". The book was launched at the Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (SCAH) on Sunday morning (coincidentally, Mother's Day is on 13 May 2007). Some speakers were present at the event: Dr Syed Husin Ali, Dr S. Nagarajan and Ms. Beth Yaph.

Link: http://malaysianunplug.blogspot.com/2007/05/may-13-dr-kua-kia-soongs-latest-book.html

His version of the event is based on declassfied documents. It was said that DAP was not the cause of the riot. May 13 was purportedly a successful coup attempt against our first Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman by people within his party. Sad to say, the victims and pawns were the commoners.

Rustam Sani attended the book launch.
Link: http://malaysia-today.net/blog2006/index.php?itemid=4634

The book will be sold in major bookstores all over Malaysia soon. I would get a copy of it. I would advise anyone I know to read it.

Like what I have said previously, one that does not learn from history, would be bound to repeat the mistakes. My prayers to the solemnly departed in "513". May God bless us and not allow such tragedy to ever happen again in Malaysia.

JJ and the Moorthy Sisters: Should We Accept JJ's Apology?

I would encourage visitors to read my other two articles as well:
JJ and the Moorthy Sisters: Ministers Should Think Before Speaking
JJ and Sheela/Sheena Moorthy in California: Racism and the Shallowness of Skin Colour

Perhaps, Jamaluddin Jarjis used the wrong words to highlight that the government will only help the 'poor Indians'. We can never be sure about that.

However, we can be sure it is definitely wrong for a minister to generalise based on fairness of skin colour.

Was Jamaluddin Jarjis's apology sincere? I do hope so.
Link: http://sagaladoola.blogspot.com/2007/05/jj-and-sheelasheena-moorthy-in.html

Least of all, he is one of the very few ministers who apologise. He made an apology in front of 500 students.

In the very least, he sets a good example (only for the apology action) that these people should instead follow:

1) Bung Mokhtar and Mohd. Said (Batu Gajah 'bocor' every month),
2) Hishamuddin Hussein (keris waving),
3) Tengku Adnan (8000 bloggers are unemployed women),
4) Samy Vellu (publicly announce someone to "Go To Hell')
5) Khairy Jamaluddin (Chinese will make demands if people do not support UMNO)

Of course, there are those who so-called 'apologised' many times but still repeat similar offensive remarks. I am sure the apologies are not sincere:
1) Badruddin Amiruldin (keling jual roti, keling botol, "I talking about Muslims, not keling")
Link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Badruddin_Amiruldin

For the time being, regardless of what it is, I will accept the apology and as a Malaysian forgive Jamaluddin Jarjis for the blunder.

At least, he is a 'real man' (who admits that he is wrong) and not a 'pussy' like SOME PEOPLE who always claim they are 'misquoted' or 'misunderstood'.

JJ and the Moorthy Sisters: Ministers Should Think Before Speaking

I would say that, as a 'Minister', who is also a Member of Parliament and representative of citizens, one should always be careful with his choice of words.

Words of a blogger may account for the views of the person alone which may bring no major impact. The public views the words of a minister as a stand and policy of the government.

If the public perceives the words of a minister as threatening or offensive, it will be no surprise to witness an outcry.

Let's analyse...

1) I believe indians who may be from 'other (be it higher or lower) caste' (than Samy Vellu's) but have low income do not want to be discriminated.

After all, caste is not supposed to be recognised in the Malaysian Constitution.

From what I recall, government's stand is to help a person based on his/her income level regardless of caste.

Does JJ mean, those from Samy Vellu's so-called lower caste would be helped? The higher would not? Only people who know Samy Vellu will be helped? Class = Caste? I am not sure.

Perhaps, everyone should read this and judge:
"Incident 3 – After saying he is going to get MARA to help the Bumiputra students, he looked at her and asked “How many Indians are here?” Sheena did not keep track of number of Indian students so she mentioned that in the room there were two (pointing to another Malaysian Indian friend, who is fair skinned) and Jamaludin looked at him and asked “Oh. You are an Indian? Which means you are an upper class Indian and she is the lower class one” (pointing at her). Jamaludin went on to say that, “Oh, I am not going to help upper class Indians, I only help the lower class ones. They are the ones that need it’."

Link: http://blog.limkitsiang.com/?p=197

2) It is still rude and wrong to stereotype anyone who is lighter skinned as higher class and darker skinned as lower class.

If I were to mention that the Europeans are higher class than the Chinese because of skin colour, would the Chinese like that? If I were to say that the Chinese are higher class than the Malays or Indians because of skin colour, would the Malays or Indians like this statement?

The answer is obviously 'NO'.

3) I am sure no individuals, in any sense would like to be associated with the phrase 'low class'. It is simply degrading. I believe, even 'lower caste' people would not like to be called such.

Continued in JJ and the Moorthy Sisters: Should We Accept JJ's Apology?

Malays and Muslims Should Make Noise if Non-Malay or Non-Muslim Ministers Make Racist Statements

This is what I commented in Raja Petra Kamaruddin's "Of Pariahs and Pan-Asians" in Malaysia Today.

HIGHLIGHT FROM THE ARTICLE:
Today’s Blogs to see how everybody; Malays, Chinese as well as Indians; insult not only Malays but Islam as well. And while this alleged insult of the Malaysian Indian student in the US is splashed all over the newspapers and websites plus raised in Parliament, do you see even a minute squeak from anyone when Malays and Islam are insulted?

COMMENT:
To be fair, I would say there is truth in what you wrote.

It is pretty obvious here in Malaysia Today.

There are extreme non-Muslims and non-Malays here in Malaysia Today itself.

Instead of promoting the spirit of understanding, they see this as an opportunity to hit on other people's religion (Islam) or the Malay race.

They fail to see that, while they label Malays as racist, they are being racist themselves by making such stereotype. Horrible and insulting names were given. They fail to see that some Malays call for reforms and they forgot that they are posting in a website hosted by a Malay Muslim.

A person who has good parentage and educated does not go to another's home and insult the owner's ancestry and faith.

Such action is considered 'kurang ajar'. One can criticise but should not offend using 'uneducated' ways (calling certain races as pigs, cursing, etc.)

If there is any Malay or Muslim feel that he/she is insulted by politicians, MPs or Ministers, it would be good that he/she bring this up as an issue and cause a ruckus in the parliament. It is the right of every Malaysian to do that.

JJ and Sheela/Sheena Moorthy in California: Racism and the Shallowness of Skin Colour

Dr. Sheela Moorthy, a Malaysian residing in California USA lodged a complaint against Jamaludin Jarjis (from now on, JJ). An apology was demanded from racist minister (02-May-2007). Mr. Lim Kit Siang has an entry in his blog on this as well.

As a Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, they met in a gathering organised by the Malaysian Consulate. His job was to address issues for Malaysian students studying in USA.

Dr. Sheela is currently supporting her sister's (Sheena) education in USA. As a proud Malaysian, initially she was proud to be able to meet a fellow minister from her home country.

She was dearly surprised and angered when JJ used words such as "high class", "low class", "buruh kasar" (hard labour), "dark skinned", "light skinned" to describe fellow Malaysian Indians in his speech.

Dark was associated with "low" and Light was associated with "high".

Such unkind remarks! I can understand why she is angry. Malaysia have racist ministers ! Bravo to Sheena and Sheela for speaking out.

Purportedly, they wrote a letter and addressed to MIC president Samy Vellu. It is strange that there is no known comments or actions from him yet. Isn't it strange? Isn't he an Indian? Isn't he supposed to represent all Indians in Malaysia?

Some blogs call for JJ to be sacked

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

Apparently on 09-May-2007, Rocky's Bru reported that JJ has apologised to Sheena.

IS THAT SHEENA'S MISTAKE? IS SHE THE WRONGDOER?

I wish to make a HIGHLIGHT on what was being said in the article above:
.... that he had said some things in jest; nonetheless, he wished to apologise to "the student in LA" if he had offended her, an aide told me on the phone.

COMMENT:
First of all I would like to state that at least JJ has taken some effort to apologise to Sheena, which is somehow good, considering the fact that the rest of the politicians do not do so. Please take note that I used to word "somehow" before "good".

However, the problem here is the way the apology is conveyed. Is that a "real" apology? Is that so-called apology "an apology"? Let's analyse.

1) Bear in mind that JJ mentioned the word "JEST" in his so-called "apology".

2) Is he saying that he is only JESTING(joking) with his horrible words and not an intention to hurt people of Indian parentage?

3) Is he saying that he was only JOKING using such horrible words but he was "Sorry" that Sheena/Sheela took it seriously?

4) Is he justifying those horrible words are not appropriate if taken seriously but "OK" if said in JEST?

I ponder, if there are tokens of "Yes" for those questions above I would say that is an INSINCERE "apology".

I am not sure whether Jamaluddin Jarjis really meant it this way (below) but in my opinion it sounds like:

"SHEENA/SHEELA, I SAID SOMETHING IN JEST BUT I AM SORRY THAT YOU TOOK IT SERIOUSLY".

* * Does that mean Sheena/Sheela is the person who is the wrongdoer here, taking jokes seriously and make a big issue out of it ? * *

Saying certain people in races as being "LOW CLASS" and "HIGH CLASS" is an insult, regardless whether it is a JOKE or otherwise! Those words are Horrendous, Terrible and should be Condemned.

Why can't the apology be direct like this:
"I am sorry for offending people of Indian ethnicity. Words as such should not be uttered in any form, jesting or seriously."

Is that so-called "apology" sincere?

You decide !

Thank God I am not Sheena/Sheela.

P.S. Sheena/Sheela has not replied to the apology made by Jamaluddin Jarjis as of this moment.