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.

Why Is It Hard to Accept An Apology In My Personal Capacity?

Yesterday, Najib, whose job includes the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, the chief of Barisan Nasional whip and the Vice-President of UMNO apologised publicly for a racially-slanted statement made on Malaysian Chinese during the Permatang Pauh by-election.

Malaysiakini reported that Ahmad Ismail, division chief of Bukit Bendera UMNO purportedly described minority Chinese as "immigrants squatting" in Malaysia.

1) One must truly notice the irony of the situation. It was Ahmad who was alleged to have uttered such words but the person who apologised is Najib. Why Najib but not Ahmad?

2) Why did a representative apologise only after the Permatang Pauh by-election and not immediately right after the statement was made?

3) Certain leadership within the Party had tried to distance it from the unbecoming statements by attaching the term "personal capacity" on this matter.

Are leaders allowed to make such statements in personal capacity during election or by-election campaigning and get away from any punishments while another party representative apologises?

4) If the answer to the above (2) is a "Yes", then try to imagine this scenario.

Let's say (imagine), if most (take for example, 6 out of 10) leaders campaigning for their own Party in an election/by-election of constituent X tell the voters that certain races are "squatters" in Malaysia, would that still be considered statements made in "personal capacity" and not a party stand?

Wouldn't that be ironic or strange if it is considered of "personal capacity"?

5) If the answer to point (2) is a "No", a necessary question to ask : Will there be any punishment meted on leaders from the party uttering racially-sensitive slanted statements not in line with the stand of Party and causing dissatisfaction within Barisan Nasional components?

Isn't unity an important element within BN?

To date, the person who made the statement in "personal capacity" is standing by his words.

6) What if one of the person who said something like this holds an important position within the ranks?

Isn't Division Chief an important position?

There is something called "leadership by example". Can any leader who possess such sentiment and not apologetic about it be a good example to members? Can such leader still be trusted to represent Malaysians as a Member of Parliament?

7) If a leader said something which is not in the form of good leadership, not setting a good example, not synonymous with the party stand, not in the spirit of the Barisan Nasional coalition, not settling, in fact causing much Malaysians to be dissatisfied, not jiving with the spirit of unity in Malaysia, will the Party hesitate to take any publicly-widely-known action on a leader?

Did the Party advise the person to apologise personally on his statement made on "personal capacity"?

There is a plus point that Najib is willing to come forward to apologise but perhaps these issues should be addressed and the questions answered.

Is Malaysia Totally Screwed Up? BN or PR?

Blogger Che Det had just posted an entry titled WHY DON'T I DO SOMETHING . I can't help it but notice point number 15 to 18.

It would be something like, if we have Barisan Nasional at the helm of the governance, we are in a bad shape. On the other hand, if we have the current opposition form a new government, the country will also suffer.

Perhaps, we are screwed either way? The particular personal opinion describes the future as all dark and gloomy.

Like it or not, we have to choose.

The citizens can easily identify the methods of the current leadership of BN and predict where it will lead the nation. Malaysians have seen much these few years and I would say many are not pleased.

Whereas, Malaysia has never experienced a change in government. Perhaps, a slightly different way of handling things would suffice. Would Pakatan Rakyat be enough?

I am still waiting for significant improvements on "governance" within Barisan Nasional, especially UMNO. A reform is certainly needed. I do not consider a party that retains a leader who describes non-Malay Malaysian citizens as immigrants and not apologetic for his statements, to be a positive reform plan. Almost all non-Malay Malaysians, especially Malaysian Chinese are born in Malaysia. Second-hand apology is 'unacceptable'.

Barisan Nasional or Pakatan Rakyat? My current choice would still be the latter.

Anwar in Permatang Pauh, PAS Will Not Join BN, Ex-MCA People Leave BN

PAS and BN
Previously I had blogged with a question as the title : Will PAS Embrace Islam Hadhari or Join BN?

Thankfully, the answer from PAS is a "NO". It was said that PAS is greatful to both the Malay and non-Malay communities and if there is any future discussions, the party would try to include other components of Pakatan Rakyat. Maybe, common sense had finally caught on with the PAS faction that spoke with UMNO regarding the issue of "Malay Unity". PAS should realise that Malaysians voted for it to speak about "Malaysian Unity" which logically includes the interests of Malays under its theme.

I hope PAS will be cautious in making future decisions on discussions as such.

Ex-MCA People and BN
In the meantime, Malaysiakini had just posted a report titled Ex-MCA leader defects to PKR.

Accordingly ... (from Malaysiakini) ...

Former MCA Wanita deputy chief Dr Tan Yee Kew today crossed over with 1,700 others to PKR in Klang - the constituency which she once represented for 13 years. She was three-term Klang MP.

Now, this exodus should be a cause for concern within Barisan Nasional : A popular leader with a big crowd crossing over to Pakatan Rakyat.

Remember, remember, the "Crossover", 16th of September? Can anyone recall what Anwar Ibrahim had said about that date? It is only 6 weeks away. The clock is ticking.

Anwar and Permatang Pauh
Meanwhile, Wan Azizah had announced her resignation from the Permatang Pauh constituency to allow her husband Anwar Ibrahim to contest in a by-election.

Permatang Pauh is the stronghold for PKR and of course, Anwar, even he was in UMNO. The campaigning had started. YB Lim Kit Siang of DAP said, "Permatang Pauh by-election - turn it into a mini political tsunami".

Winning for Anwar should not be difficult under 'normal conditions' , looking at history. His party and himself is concerned that he would be arrested, and that could make things quite complex.

Will PAS Embrace Islam Hadhari or Join BN?

July is indeed a busy week. Therefore, time to blog is extremely scarce, with exams and office projects progressing at the same fast pace.

However, politics in Malaysia is at all times boring, slow and at its utmost unpleasant.

Will PAS Embrace Islam Hadhari?
1) I have been reading many articles about PAS having dialogue with UMNO over something called "Malay Unity". Perhaps, PAS has forgotten a few things, particularly of the events that transpired before the 12th General Election of 8th March 2008.

2) PAS has forgotten that it gained its biggest win in the Malaysian history resulting from the support through votes of Malaysians disregarding race and religion although PAS is typically a party leaned towards Islam. The proposed Welfare State (Negara Berkebajikan) is indeed more welcome to all rather than the concept of a purely theological State based on supposed interpretation of Islam and Hudud laws.

3) Since Malaysians have placed away many of their suspicion on the party, PAS should have discussed "Malaysian Unity" which by its own virtue include Malaysian Malay unity instead of concentrating on the latter, alone.

4) Ironically, PAS, a Pakatan Rakyat component is in talks with UMNO, the chief of Barisan Nasional on such matters. Why can't PAS speak with PKR, PSM or DAP on this matter and formulate plans to strengthen the unity of all races?

5) Why should it be UMNO? It is hard for a Malaysian not to view this negatively. After all, such talks arouse much suspicion, which brings us to the question : Will PAS eventually switch over to BN?

6) Even Sheih Kickdefella, a PAS supporter does not sound too happy in his post Baling Batu Tangan Sembunyi Dekat Belakang. I echo his words :

"I run to PAS not to be with Abdullah, ......."

and on top of that, I shall add, in my own volition, "and definitely not for it to be with Barisan Nasional".

7) If PAS switches over to BN, I shall personally conclude that PAS is no different than the UMNO it criticised pre-12th General Election. Any PAS leader, member of supporter should take note of this.

Journalists Restriction at the Parliament

Today is really a busy day but I find it necessary to write about this :
Jeff Ooi : Journalists cordoned off, in Parliament . Rocky's Bru reported this as well.

The Star wrote:
"On Friday, a press statement was issued from Parliament saying that only five journalists from each news organisation would be allowed in Parliament from yesterday. The Parliament administration stated that the limit was for security reasons."

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Nazri said "“Five is more than enough. If five is not enough then something is wrong with you all. It shows you are not efficient. It’s as simple as that."

I was wondering why there was no further explanation on the reason of "security". All this while, the journalists have been doing the same thing without the limit. All of a sudden there is this issue about "security" after all these years? One cannot just simply mention a word (security) and assume that the people have to accept the decision no matter what it is. As a responsible person, it should be mentioned what constitutes of "security" that result in such a rule. For example, is there any threat from unknown people or something potentially dangerous that can be avoided by the implementation?

Nazri's statement confuses me on whether the rule are made due to "security reasons" or "improving the efficiency of journalists". Perhaps, it's both. Anyway, the former point has not been properly explained, therefore not acceptable while the latter point is lame.

I believe if there is any intention of any ministers to "improve the efficiency of journalists", ASSUMING it is a noble motive, the ministers should be reminded that this is not part of their portfolio . That is the job of the employers of the journalists. Ministers should be transparent and ready to answer questions from the press and public on policies and decisions. Freedom of press should not be restricted.

The justifications provided are not plausible to me. Malaysiakini has just reported
Media boycott over Parliament access by Beh Lih Yi Jun 24, 08 10:10am
"More than 100 journalists covering the ongoing Parliament sitting are staging a boycott after the Parliament administration restricted media access to the lobby and barricaded the area."

Unfortunately, I have to say I support the boycott. News is very important to me and I am not able to accept such restrictive rule. Considering the fact that the Parliament is controlled by the Federal Government, which is represented by Barisan Nasional, I would like to ask whether this would be the exemplary form of governance on media that will take place beyond the 100 days after PRU12.

If the answer is "yes", I would be very disappointed. I thought PRU12 inspires repentance and reforms in BN and I, as well as millions of hopeful Malaysians do not like to be disappointed.

Evaluation on the Resignation of Member Number 1

Mahathir follows tradition of ex-PMs . First, it was Dato' Onn Jaafar whose ideology was ahead of his time, Tunku Abdul Rahman after the infamous May 13 1969 tragedy and Tun Hussein Onn with the exception of Tun Abdul Razak who never had the chance because of his early death.

No one really see this coming but these days many things become unpredictable like the weather after the Malaysian 12th General Election. Would it be appropriate to say that the weather is more predictable?

UMNO Baru member number 1 and number 2 (his wife) are leaving the party that he founded while encouraging his supporters or those who think the current leadership is weak to do the same. The announcement was made during Wesak Day, a national holiday.

In order to start things off, it should be mentioned that Barisan Nasional had its best showing in Malaysian history during the tenure of Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in the year 2004. In 2008, UMNO and BN suffered their historical worst showing, with Pak Lah helming the leadership.

Allegedly, certain quarters speculate that the resignation was due to an implication in the Lingam tape scandal. This allegation comes without proper substantiation and could be easily dismissed. Quite the contrary, judging on what is being written by the man himself, whose self-penned blogger nickname "Che Det", in his blog post Pengumuman Keluar dari UMNO. Accordingly, it is an issue of no-confidence on the leadership of Pak Lah, who was chosen by, ironically, none other than Tun Dr. M himself.

Instead of focusing on the messenger, it would be best to place the concentration on the message delivered and related possibilities:

1) Will UMNO suffer a "split" similar to a crisis 2 decades ago ? Remember the 1988 Tengku Razaleigh and Semangat 46 ....

2) If there is a "split", will Malaysia get a new government? Anwar Ibrahim, the de facto leader of Pakatan Rakyat (PR) had previously mentioned of potential party hoppers from BN components into PR before Tun Dr. M's resignation. Will the "split" speed up and consummate this eventuality?

3) Will Mukhriz, the parliamentarian of Jerlun (for a brief 2 months plus), the son of Tun Dr. M follow his father's footsteps if the son share the same sentiments? If Mukhriz refuses to emulate, will this affect Tun Dr. M's "influence" credibility vice versa in opting for such step?

4) Judging by the current situation, a big number of people deserting the UMNO ship would create a more obvious possibility for changing the government. There could be members who are afraid of this situation, causing them to stay instead of resigning due to many reasons or particularly vested interests. Even if the number of resignation is not big, there could still be people leaving in a slower pace. Of course, there are also the Sabahans and their political will. What would one do when one is desperate? Will there be an EGM? Could this be a carefully-planned political move from many angles to drum up support for Tengku Razaleigh within UMNO?

5) Malaysiakini posted an article titled Shahrir: Prepare for another general election . A large number of Malaysians voted Opposition (Pakatan Rakyat components) with the mindset of giving a chance for these parties to administer the nation. Although that, it should not be forgotten that there is also a substantial number of people who voted Opposition because they dislike the current leadership of BN in priority. Now, bundle all this with the possibility of UMNO members following Tun in abandonning ship. If there really is another general election, will these members form a "New Party"? Would a large number of votes swing to this "New Party"?

Or, perhaps, the least likeliest of all ....

6) All in all, could it be that the response is minimal that nothing drastic would actually happen?

If point number 6 does not happen, point number 2, 4 or 5 could happen. It is not hard to guess who will be the most disadvantaged in a chess game of checkmates and conquests. That person is definitely not Tun Dr. M.

All of the points above are fictional and inconclusive. My imagination runs wild. However, truth is sometimes stranger than fiction. There are times, the most likeliest thing that we expect to happen would not happen vice versa.

Since Malaysian politics after PRU12 is more unpredictable than the weather, everyone can consider lying back, relax and enjoy "Drama Minggu Ini" provided the economy, security and livelihood are still good.

This article is published in Malaysia Today - http://www.malaysia-today.net/2008/content/view/7719/84/

The End of 2nd Month After PRU12

[by Sagaladoola]

Previously, I had blogged about the New (or Old) Administration precisely at the end of the 1st month since its inception. Titled PRU12 Is Not Over Yet ?, it was published in Malaysiakini , Malaysia Today and comment section of Asia Sentinel. Since then, the parliament had presided and I thought finally after 50 years, there will be reform in the way things are being done.

Raja Petra and Arrest
On the 8th of May 2008, precisely the end of the 2nd month, I was greeted by news of Raja Petra (or RPK of Malaysia Today) going on a hunger strike in Sungai Buloh prison for a charge, which later proved to be of another case. Earlier, RPK's home was raided. As a reader since its year of inception, I was shocked. Instantly, the news on RPK spread like wildfire and it has become international. Try these links, to name a few :

CNN : Malaysian blogger faces jail for sedition
Inquirer UK : Malaysian coppers swoop on blogger
AKI - Adnkronos international - Malaysia: Blogger charged with sedition
Agency France-Presse : Malaysian police raid blogger over murder article
Straits Times Singapore : Blogger Raja Petra charged with sedition
UB Post - Mongolia

Two candlelight vigils were held to call for his release. The first, was in front of Penjara Sungai Buloh and the second was on Dataran Merdeka. These reminded me of the Nat Tan incident in July 2007 . I was there to make a voluntary coverage of a similar candlelight vigil in front of the Dang Wangi police station. I could remember that Malaysian bloggers, presumably voters in PRU12 were greatly displeasured. Many NGOs condemned the incident. Nat Tan's case was of a different nature. Surprisingly, the police is quick in dealing with the report on RPK.

It makes me wonder if (not necessarily real) there is someone who waved around with a sword or gun and call for the blood of a certain category or race, the police response would be similar. Of course, neither Nat nor RPK had done something like that.

Bear in mind that RPK is supported and praised by many netizens for his fair stand on national unity regardless of race and religion. As a sympathetic Malaysian, I see it necessary that justice is accorded to the deceased Altantuya. It is sad to see her father, Shaariibuu travelling to Malaysia periodically longing for justice to be served.

Karpal Singh and Sedition Act
Furthermore, there is another police report purportedly on using Seditious Act on Karpal Singh. Karpal earlier spoke in public discussing matters are not within the jurisdiction of certain leadership. Common sense tells me to ask this question : Is it wrong for a law practitioner or a member of Parliament to discuss the roles and responsibilities of a national leader in public as stated and accorded in the Malaysian Constitution?

The Malaysian governance is called Constitutional Monarchy, meaning there is acknowledgment for the existence of Sultans and Agong in reference with a Federal Constitution. State matters are ruled by State Constitutions which do not contradict with the highest law of the land, the Federal Constitution.

From what I have gathered, I did not read in the papers of any call for the abolishment of the monarchy. There were no gigantic demonstrations in front of the palace with banners describing "Natang" or any derogatory words to date. So, it would not be appropriate to equate Karpal's case with any other case with such nature.

Conclusion and Other Matters
Four days ago was 8th May 2008 , the end of the 2nd month post PRU 12. The 1st month completed with plenty of blaming, megaphone diplomacy and internal bickering within BN and Pakatan Rakyat. The dust has not completely settled but at least the situation is better now. Then, I was hoping that the situation would change after the parliament presided.

Quite the contrary, the second month concluded with news of Sedition Act usages coupled by an international media coverage and basic needs price inflations.

In the meantime, for some personal reasons, I have already lost confidence in Najib. In order to be fair, I would not place a 100% blame on Pak Lah and his Administration for the rising price in commodity goods. It is a global phenomenon. At least, he is trying to do something about it like speaking with the Thai government to work out something.

On the other hand, I am really concerned is the usage of Sedition Act and the image of Malaysia in the eyes of the world.

As I said in an earlier post, shouldn't we place more emphasis on handling any potential economic crisis resulting from the U.S. economy meltdown? Otherwise, is it necessary to give voting Malaysians a chance to see more less than positive news in the eyes of the world? Would that really help in gathering more support for the government? This is too easy to answer and I leave this to the readers' discretion.

What Malaysians need are motivating international news and policies to propel the nation into the next level of development. A Federal government was chosen to perform great things and put the name of the country back in international papers with positive and great achievements, rather than spending time on using Seditious Act, Internal Security Act, Official Secrets Act, certain clauses of Printing Publishing and Presses Act and Universities and University Colleges Act.

In fact, I believe some quarters want the Federal Government to repeal these acts. As a blogging Malaysian, I would sincerely hope to see that happen. Could it be possible when Barisan Nasional is still the Federal Government?

This article is also published in http://www.malaysia-today.net/2008/content/view/7358/84/

PRU12 Is Not Over Yet ?

I am in a serious state of confusion today. Reading Malaysiakini , Malaysia Today, The Malaysian Insider and ironically mainstream papers like The Star and NST makes me feel as if there will be a gigantic national election coming soon. Probably, these are the campaigning days "prior to the election".

Wait a minute. The national election (Pilihanraya Umum 12) or synonymously named in its abbreviated form PRU12 was held exactly one month ago. Today is 8th April and it was on 8th March 2008.

It is not exactly the fault or any form of mis-reporting on the part of presses and publications that caused such confusion. Generally, the local news segments are full with articles emanating vibes of election. Finger-pointing , dissing out personalities , amassing supporters to organise gatherings , little street demonstrations , alleged saboteurs and megaphone diplomacy made it. The media is merely reporting what is happening in reality.

As a concerned citizen, I was really looking forward to reading development plans for Malaysia 4 to 5 years down to road. With the onset of a serious economic crisis in the United States, I think it is really time for the chosen government to actually formulate strategies to safeguard the local interests. Any form of inflation will affect the citizens by-and-large. These should be the priority instead. Regretably, "election-style" politicking seems to overtake these issues.

I hope there are people from Barisan Nasional component parties that will read this page and do something useful to the nation. Yes, BN lost its two-third majority and five states in PRU12 for the very first time in the 50 years of Malaysia. Yes, it is BN's worst defeat to date. Yes, it is alarming but it should be known that BN still has the simple majority. BN is still the federal government.

The internal bickering is not doing any good to the image and structure of the ruling coalition. Being denied two-third is not the end of the world. However, it will be the end of the world for everyone in Malaysia, be it commoners like me, opposing parties and BN if the economy crumbles in the midst of all these continual sensational drama. Believe me, PRU12 is nothing compared to the economic problems potentially reaching our shores as a side effect of the globalised economy centering on USA.

If one thinks PRU12 shook BN hard, imagine the damage an economic crisis may do to the foundations of a coalition. Think long and hard from the "confidence" perspective of a common Malaysian towards a political party. Would one choose to bicker first, cushion the effects later or the opposite?

As for me, I would choose the latter. If the economy is sustained, at least it will generate a certain amount of positive vibes in "confidence".

On the other hand, internal dispute is not only the problem of Barisan Nasional. Pakatan Rakyat has its share of megaphone diplomacy. Did anyone read about the latest DAP-PAS fiasco on an old issue of Islamic state versus Secular state? It is not really wise to hang dirty linens in public. It is high time to sit down , iron out the issue once and for all, prepare a detailed blueprint on "How to govern Malaysia : Muslims and Non-Muslims".

The PR political parties should not avoid this issue any longer. Even as I speak, the supporters of both parties have started less than pleasant comments that may put the collaboration at risk. As a Malaysian, it is my dream to see them work together as one. It should be tighter and more synchronised than the cooperation that was witnessed in PRU12. PKR must be in the picture as well.

Pakatan Rakyat has to know that it came into being with the support of Malaysians particularly through the Barisan Rakyat civil movement iniative. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that should be appreciated. time to ride on the wind rather than let it pass through without capitalising properly on the given chance.

BN is still essential for a Two-Party Country

Malaysiakini published : Author: Help, not crush, Umno
by Soon Li Tsin Apr 4, 08 1:49pm
Author and academician Dr Ooi Kee Beng said Umno should be assisted and not crushed in its attempt to reform itself yesterday.

Launching his book entitled ‘Lost in Transition: Malaysia under Abdullah’ in Kuala Lumpur, Ooi expressed concern over the future of Umno which may resort to fascism.
-> Umno like Taiwan's KMT
-> Abdullah's main challenges
_________________________________

It cannot be dismissed that there are indeed people out there who speaks against Umno. I think it is a reality of politics that people on one side often try to do something like that to the people of another side. Applies to both sides of the fence.

It is indeed true that in order to preserve a two-party system, it is still necessary that Umno and BN be retained as well. However, judging by the current situation, only the combination of Umno leadership, its seniors, members and grassroots can solve their internal problems so that they can stand on their own feet again.

There is not much outsiders can do in terms of assistance on that matter.

New Blogs of BN Politicians

In my previous article, I clarified that ICT Is Not The Main Cause of BN's Failure . The main source is actually "dissatisfaction with mainstream papers and administration". When one approach a solution to a problem, it should be through the evaluation of its source and not its symptom.

Nevertheless, despite the great amount of dislike I have over the performance of both these people, it should not be a reason to deter me from welcoming them to the blogging world.

Mohamad Khir Toyo - Ex-Menteri Besar of Selangor (UMNO-BN)


Mohd. Ali Rustam - Menteri Besar of Melaka (UMNO-BN)

I would recommend for people to read the explanation of these guys over several issues. Mohd. Ali Rustam wrote about Pakatan Rakyat while Mohd. Khir Toyo on the issues in Selangor. I am not convinced with Mohd. Ali Rustam's opinions on Pakatan Rakyat. I am considering whether I should provide a counter-explanation to Mohd. Ali Rustam's writing titled Pakatan Rakyat... Untuk apa? . Yes, do not forget to read the hot and spicy visitors' comments and be prepared to leave your own there... hehehe....

Anyway, I congratulate both the Mohamads for having the courage to pick up the new media. Now, where are all the MCA , Gerakan and MIC people and the rest of the UMNO MPs

MPs' blogs that I am looking forward to :
1) Hishammuddin Hussein
2) Samy Vellu
3) Rafidah Aziz
4) Ong Ka Ting / Ong Ka Chuan
5) Khairy Jamaluddin (Weird, he is rather silent these days. Not really his character)

If there is any of their friends or followers reading this, please remind them should they have an intention to setup a blog, please keep the comments section open. I am sure the Malaysians would have so many things to question and that includes me. For example, Samy Vellu, why are you still here after 30 years? Isn't that more than enough already? Hishammuddin, can we call you Kerishamuddin? Things like that.

ICT Is Not The Main Cause of BN's Failure

UMNO still does not get it? Read this piece of story from Sun2Surf titled Don't blame Pak Lah alone: Muhammad .

These statements are made:
“The young voters read less from the mainstream newspapers and more from the bloggers and portals. We (BN) are not so much into this field, thinking that the newspaper is enough. That is our mistake,” Muhammad said.

“They are monopolising a field which appeals to the youngsters. We should give a chance to the prime minister to rehabilitate ourselves in the field of bloggers, portals and SMSes.

“They won because they had used the ICT more effectively than BN. That is the fact. It is not about our failure to influence people or develop the country or state governments,” he said.

If those are the views of UMNO, I am deeply concerned. The party should actually decipher why is it that the young voters read less from the mainstream newspapers but more from from the net. In fact, these so-called young voters selectively chose which blogs to approach and read.

To assume that the mainstream newspapers do not have their presence in the cyberworld is definitely wrong. There is of course The Star Online, Sun 2 Surf, NST online, Berita Harian online, Utusan online et cetera, et cetera, et cetera . There are even pro-Barisan Nasional websites online, namly MyKmu.net which hold a recent live "physical" forum, KPMU.net and several more, so on and so forth.

The Star even launched the All-Malaysian Bloggers Project (AMBP) years back. The latest activity is to provide AMBP registered bloggers with a special movie screening on the condition that "ideas for improvements, changes and features that could enhance the site" are being suggested by commenting on the Editor's blog. Malaysia Today and Malaysiakini did not even need to provide free passes as a persuasiaon effort to gather ideas.

Malaysiakini was the first on the net to run the idea of online Malaysian news. Despite the fact that Malaysia Today is now the most visited site for news, most of the top 10 news sites comprises the other mainstream newspaper-based sites.

This statement here :
“They won because they had used the ICT more effectively than BN. That is the fact. It is not about our failure to influence people or develop the country or state governments,” he said.

should be change to :
"They won not because they had used the ICT more effectively than BN. That is the fact. It is about BN's failure to influence people or develop the country or state governments,"

I cannot say it for a fact that the mainstream newspapers are pro-government. However, that is the general perception after readers flip through their pages. There are just so many issues not reported in a way that the readers feel justified. The people are dissatisfied with how national issues are being dealt with. Mismanagement, efficiency, corruption - it is sometimes too glaring for many citizens that they do not even have to read papers to feel how terrible the current situation is.

Myths to dispel from the statements I picked above :
1) Not only young voters read blogs. Older voters read blogs too.

2) Blogging cannot be logically monopolised by any party. It is a free world out there and not subjected to Printing, Presses and Publications Act annual license renewal. Anyone can register and say what they like anytime. It is the voice of the citizens. People write voluntarily on how they feel about certain issues.

3) Mainstream newspapers can be logically monopolised by interested parties through share acquisitions, governance and business ownerships.

4) Malaysians are not stupid. They are not easily influenced. They are not robots and they are able to think for themselves.

The source is "dissatisfaction with mainstream papers and administration", its symptom is "opposition use ICT more effectively".

When one approach a solution to a problem, it should be through the evaluation of its source and not its symptom.

Stop denying the truth and research why people are dissatisfied instead of harping on the ICT factor as the main cause. If the country had been administered properly, the bloggers would have written good things and not the bad, dissatisfaction would have been kept at a minimum.

Defenders of Malay Race, Derhaka or Setia, Sultan and MB Terengganu

NST report published in Malaysia Today : PKR lodges police report against PM, DPM, 23 reps for disrespect against King .

Excerpt 1 :
Faris later told reporters that the police report was made against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, his deputy Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and the 23 assemblymen who objected to the appointment of Kijal assemblyman Datuk Ahmad Said as Menteri Besar by the Terengganu Sultan.

Excerpt 2 :
The 23 state assemblymen, especially, have gone overboard in showing disrespect by going against the Royal Regency Advisory Council's decision in the appointment of Ahmad as Menteri Besar, he said.

"The palace institution must be respected and all subjects must show loyalty," he said. "The actions of those involved were a blatant disregard of loyalty to the Rulers."
_____________________________________

Malaysiakini reports Ahmad to start work as MB tomorrow (meaning this morning, 25th March 2008).

Excerpt 3 :
Opposition party PAS today fully supported the move by the Terengganu palace to appoint Kijal state representative Ahmad Said as the new menteri besar of the state.

Excerpt 4 :
In a sudden turn of event, it is reliably learnt that 13 out of 22 BN state representatives who initially supported Idris are now backing Ahmad for the post.
_____________________________________

Meanwhile Lulu Thinks Kerismuddin Should Go On Holiday/Be Unreacheable Just In Case The Press Ask For His Reaction On The Terengganu Issue . It was said that initially 22 persons would boycott the swearing-in ceremony of HRH Terengganu's choice of Menteri Besar - Ahmad Said. Abdullah's choice is Idris Jusoh. PAS and PKR has stated that they support Sultan Terengganu.

Previously, Utusan Online published a news on the Perak MB selection issue, where an Menteri Besar from PAS (Nizar) was selected although the majority of Perak state seats belonged to DAP. The title was : DAP biadab -- Arahan pulau majlis pelantikan MB Perak dianggap hina raja Melayu (DAP impolite - Order to boycott the swearing-in of Perak MB is considered as insulting the Malay king).

However, it was clarified that DAP did not intend to boycott the ceremony. DAP only intended to endorse an MB from PAS because the Central Committee originally did not endorse it. DAP did not boycott the event after all that. The swearing-in went smoothly with the blessing of the Perak royals. DAP Perak was present to support the event. In my opinion, Nizar was chosen because he is the highest qualified of the candidates given to HRH Perak for selection. An overseas graduate who can speak Malay, Mandarin, Cantonese, Hokkien, Tamil and English and had experience handling many engineering projects overseas and local, he would be the best person to lead the team. After all, DAP has the most number of excos to ensure all the development work and requirements of the citizens are being fulfilled.

UMNO Information Chief said this, Tan Sri Muhammad Muhd. Taib :
“Saya percaya dalam hal ini bukan sahaja saya, tetapi puluhan juta lagi rakyat menjunjung kasih dan mengucapkan syabas ke bawah Duli Tuanku Sultan Perak, Sultan Azlan Shah kerana terus menegakkan peruntukan Perlembagaan,” katanya.

("I believe, in this matter, it is not only me but tens of million citizens would accept and congratulate His Royal Highness Sultan Perak, Sultan Azlan Shah for upholding the Constitution," he said)

UMNO Youth Chief, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said :
“Niat memulaukan istiadat pelantikan juga menunjukkan mereka hanya gilakan kuasa sehingga sanggup membelakangkan kesetiaan kepada raja dan negara,” katanya dalam satu kenyataan di sini hari ini.

("The intention to boycott the swearing-in ceremony shows that they are only crazy for power until the extent that loyalty to the King and Nation can be disregarded," he said in a statement today.)

So Speaketh these so-called Defenders of Malay race. However, DAP did not boycott the ceremony. DAP eventually endorsed and accepted the choice of Sultan Perak. The Perak exco and MB has already been sworn-in. The rest of Barisan Rakyat ( PKR-DAP-PAS ) states ( Selangor, Kedah, Kelantan and Penang) had already established governments with the consent of respective Sultans. There were no boycotts or members of constituents threatening the palaces with resignations. The only pending states without fully-functioning governments are Barisan Nasional-held states - Perlis and Terengganu. Isn't it ironic?

Indeed, one of the 5 principles in Rukunegara is "Kesetiaan Kepada Raja dan Negara" (Loyal to the King and the Nation). The opposite of the word "Setia" (Loyal) is "Derhaka" (Traitorous). As the Minister of Education and logically reading his statement, it is almost clear that he is aware of this principle.

In the Terengganu fiasco, if the reports gathered are accurate, isn't it obvious that there were threats of protest resignations over the choice of the palace? Isn't it perfectly clear there were intentions to boycott a swearing-in ceremony should Ahmad Said be made MB instead of Idris Jusoh? Going by Hishammuddin's logic, wouldn't it be right to say that the people who wanted to do all that as "Derhaka" (Traitorous)?

Isn't it glaring that Muhammad Muhammad Taib has yet to repeat his statements on "Sultan upholding the Constitution" by insisting on HRH's own choice?

Isn't it glaring that Hishammuddin has yet to speak out on any "disloyalty to the King and Nation" should the boycotts and protest resignations be launched?

Isn't it glaring that the Sultan of Terengganu is symbolic of the Malay culture and the people involved in the "drama" are members of the so-called United Malay National Organisation (UMNO) in a Malay-majority land?

Shouldn't these "Defenders of the Malay race" protect the interests of the Malays signified by the Sultan and his choice in tandem with the words of its communal leaders Muhammad Muhammad Taib and Hishammuddin Hussein?

Where are these people who spoke loudly against the non-BN leaders when you need them to speak on the Terengganu issue?

One has got to practise what one preaches. Otherwise, would it be fair to name people who do not do as they expect of others as Hypocrites, "No Credibility", False Defenders for the Malays, Double Standard Practitioners?

It is not the role of this blogger to make a conclusion. These questions should be conveyed to Muhammad and Hishammuddin to answer. This blogger believes Malaysians are intelligent enough to uncover the truth.

An Analysis on Cabinet 2008

Malaysiakini had published the Full list of 2008 cabinet .
For a free viewing of the cabinet list, you can go to The Malaysian Insider

I received an e-mail today. It is an analysis of Pak Lah's new cabinet.
________________________________________________

Dear All,

First of all, I would like to congratulate Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi on his re-appointment as Prime Minister along with formation of his new cabinet.

Nevertheless, I am quite disappointed with this new formation of the cabinet and my voice speaks out to the whole nation. After losing the heavy battled election, Pak Lah should realize by now (a Chinese proverb saying that a man will be wise once he is older), that change is needed. He needs to get the support of people who are good in the art of government to back him up if he intends to further his political career and at the same time safeguarding the interests of Barisan Nasional, the governing party in Malaysia.

I love Malaysia and I do not want to see our country falter. The again, we should not fall behind due to the incompetency of our government officials. All we have is Malaysia Hope, Malaysia Boleh, Malaysia Harmony and Malaysia Economy. As a nation, this is all we have. However, with the newly announced cabinet lineup, I fear that we are heading towards failure. Hope is all we have now:

Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak – Deputy Prime Minister, Unfortunately, the ministry under his charge was implicated in a case of national, international and world-wide attention- and this case is still brewing with intrigue and scandals. Considering that the case is still unresolved in the Court, it is only prudent that he should not be re-appointed Defence Minister nor even Deputy Prime Minister. The C4 bomb in question in the case was used in the murder of Altantuya.

Datuk Mohd Zaid Ibrahim – He is a newly appointed senator and has been involved in politics since 2000. Previously, he was the BN Member of Parliament of Kota Baharu in the state of Kelantan. However, the experience in governing is important because it sets apart the politician and the public administrator. Appointment in government as a full minister, is absolutely mind blowing. Everyone seeking an office as a Minister should go through the proper steps, firstly by becoming a Senator in the first term in the Dewan Negara, then Deputy Minister and then finally Minister.

Datuk Amirsham Abdul Aziz – I would give the similar reason and analysis of Zaid Ibrahim to this appointment. What is fascinating is that how does a banker get involved in the Prime Minister's Department of the Economic Planning Unit. He should be involved in the Ministry of Finance as they would benefit from his experience. Otherwise, he should be appointed Deputy Minister of Finance. Let's face it, he is more of a banker than a politician.

Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said – Her experience is managing the sports industry as a government portfolio rather than tourism. As such, she should be retained to continue the good work she has done thus far as Tourism Minister. The tourism industry in Malaysia has taken a hit from tourists preferring to go to Thailand, Cambodia and Singapore respectively. What Pak Lah should do is to bring someone who is knowledgeable and experienced in the tourism industry rather than someone who is more well versed in the sports industry.

Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib – With his previous charge in Australia, should we not be concerned with his integrity? I guess I would not want him as full fledged Minister but rather a Deputy Minister, push comes to shove. However, if Pak Lah insists it, then so be it. In addition, there is the concern is that as a fully fledged minister, one does wonder if there would be any swindling or breach of trust issues going on.

Datuk Liow Tiong Lai – Here is a person who is not a doctor, yet is appointed as Minister of Health. He has not a single prior experience in the healthcare industry. The Malaysian medical fraternity may question the issue of his appointment due to his lack of exposure in the healthcare. I do not think he is suitable yet then again, there are no qualified doctor cum politicians who is either an MP or a Senator.

Datuk Seri Zulhasnan Rafique – Do we still need a Federal Territories Minister and considering that only 2 MP seats out of 12 are from BN? With 10 MP seats gone to the opposition there would be some policy making gridlock. I would suggest simply closing down the ministry as it is a waste of public funds.

If Pak Lah has any intelligence left, he would choose a minister with experience. The person should have experience in public administration affairs or an industrial background experience related to a particular ministry. We all know that a tiger eats meat, but now it seems that a tiger eats vegetable also.

Let us not forget that the economy has gone sluggish and crime has increased significantly since Pak Lah's ascendancy as Prime Minister in 2004. Let us all hope that this shrunken cabinet truly represents the peoples' interest.

Article by Steve Peter H S Kok
________________________________________________

Cabinet 2008 Hot Seats

Malaysiakini had published the Full list of 2008 cabinet (Malaysia)
For a free viewing of the cabinet list, you can go to The Malaysian Insider

In my opinion, these are the hot seats extracted from the full list. Hot in the sense saddled with job-related problems or personality issues. Barisan Nasional is forming the government with a simple majority.

PRIME MINISTER'S DEPARTMENT
Minister : Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz
(Yes, he is still here. Let's hope there are less screams of Racist! Racist! Racist! and Bodoh! Bodoh! Bodoh! in the parliament)

FINANCE MINISTRY
Minister : Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi
Minister II : Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop
(Oh dear, he is still here too. I am extremely worried now)

WORKS MINISTRY
Minister : Datuk Mohd Zin Mohamed
(Finally Samy is gone. My guess is there will be request to open up the accounts books. And we know BN is no longer 2/3 majority. Good luck Zin... hehehe)

INFORMATION MINISTRY
Minister : Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek
(No more BN propaganda in MainStream Media, please. The people removed Abang Zam from the Ministry. So, please do your job well and do not make the public call you Minister of Mis-information)

HEALTH MINISTRY
Minister : Datuk Liow Tiong Lai
(Is Datuk Liow a doctor? I am not sure whether it is necessary for one to sit in here but I think some knowledge on clinical stuff may help. This department is normally besieged with big problematic issues. Good luck. Certainly not easy. Dr. Chua Soi Lek did it ok but I heard his job in this department was unfortunately limited by many red tapes)

WOMEN, FAMILY AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT MINISTRY
Minister : Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen
(Lucky for the windfall. Luck in circumstances. I would prefer Shahrizat than this lady. Anyone still recall what she said about the intention of importing maids from China ? How about her remarks on the nude squat ladies? Not forgetting about Belly Dancing. Yeah, that is all I know. I'd be clear on this. I do not like Ng Yen Yen.)

FEDERAL TERRITORIES MINISTRY
Minister : Datuk Zulhasnan Rafique
(This is a case of one man, or rather two against 10 or so? As far as I can recall, only Putrajaya and Labuan were won by Barisan Nasional. Hahaha, good luck Zul. Tough days ahead. Real tough. Sleep well.)

Rafidah does not have any position. Samy will not be in the Parliament because he lost in Sungai Siput after these decades. Not a single person from Gerakan is appointed as Minister. I am writing the comments above based on personal opinion anyway. Can't wait for Parliament to start presiding.

Picture from http://mob1900.blogspot.com/ . Jed Yoong wrote about the "Prestation" of Muhd. Muhd. Taib, new Minister of Rural and Regional Development Minister.

The Last Sensible Man from UMNO (Yes, There is Such A Thing)

Yes, the kind is rare. Endangered species. Certainly worth to make a mention. Malaysiakini posted Zaid: Stop pitting Malays against non-Malays by Nash Rahman & Chan Kok Leong on Mar 14, 08 4:33pm
___________________________________________
Important excerpt :
" Former Umno leader Zaid Ibrahim has called on politicians - both government and opposition - to stop fueling racial sentiments in the wake of the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition's unprecedented election setback.

“The political landscape has shifted so much and it's a dangerous time for mischievous people and racists in this country to exploit,” he told Malaysiakini in an exclusive interview.

“At this stage, when it's still a very volatile, (with) our ethnic relations not good and national unity non-existent, both sides should avoid political grandstanding and emotive outbursts.”

Zaid, who was not picked to defend his Kota Bahru parliament seat, revealed that he had received a lot of SMSes lamenting that the Malays had lost political power.

“And the mainstream media are not helping matters either when they say that the Malays have lost the ‘Ketuanan Melayu’. We've just lost an election, for God's sake. And there is another election coming.

“Don't get emotional. We've another four years. If the Barisan Nasional does its job then we can win again.” "
___________________________________________

Now read these other posts on Zaid Ibrahim :
1) Haris Ibrahim : YB Zaid, you don’t belong in UMNO!
2) Rocky's Bru : Zaid Dropped

Yup, I am as shocked as Haris Ibrahim. According to Rocky's Bru (Ahiruddin Attan) post, Zaid Ibrahim , previously a Member of Parliament was dropped from contesting in Kota Bahru in the recent Election. Come to think of it, could this be a blessing in disguise judging by the poor performance of Barisan Nasional this time around (denied 2/3, lost 5 states in Election 2008)

Perhaps, it is true that Malaysia is experiencing brain drain. It is only time before he moves on. Barisan Rakyat should absorb him (provided they don't self-destruct). Otherwise, would he be good on the other side of the fence, UMNO to speak up and balance off all the keris-wielding , amok shoutings of supremacy ?

One would never know. Until Barisan Nasional changes its stance, my opinion is Zaid will forever be placed in the underdog category for his non-racial stance and intelligent debates on national issues. We have lots of Hishamuddins and Nazris type in UMNO but certainly not Zaids.

Rare species, endangered. May be extinct soon. Preserve while alive.

Pragmatism, Chinese, Barisan Rakyat Unity

Election 2008 : History And Voting Style
Election 2008 had just completed. Barisan Rakyat, in which the civil organisations and certain citizens term the PKR , DAP and PAS parties managed to deny Barisan Nasional two-third majority for the second time since 1969. The success is more pronounced with 5 states falling into the hands of Barisan Rakyat. Now, this is happening for the very first time in history. In 1969, only 2 states were taken by non-BN parties.

There must be some reasons that Barisan Nasional had lost so many seats. The main reason is, of course, as everybody knows, the "no confidence" in the Pak Lah Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Hadhari Administration. This guy here created two major historical moments in Malaysia within two terms of his leadership.

1) Biggest win for a single political coalition (BN) in Malaysian history : Election 2004.

2) Biggest loss for a single political coalition (BN) in Malaysian history : Election 2008.

Other than Pak Lah's poor performance, is there any other reason? I would say it has something to do with the citizens. In 1969, seats were cut out in the form of racial proportions. Malay areas would have PAS contesting as opposition. Non-Muslim areas will see Gerakan (opposition back in 1969) or any other non-Muslim parties contesting. Victory was easily assured because of such grouping in constituents.

After 1969, most constituents have a somehow balanced racial distribution due to government's plan execution of integrating the Malaysian community. However, this posed a problem for parties with ethno-centric outlook. Barisan Nasional looked better for having all parties representation with all sorts of ethnicity within its coalition. If there are three-cornered fights, it would be easy for Barisan Nasional to win. Such scenario was common. Yes, it was, until 2008.

Barisan Rakyat made sure each seat will only have one representative from the opposition party. People have woken up. They have discarded the divisive racial and religious mentality and collaboratively opted for the opposition parties during election. People have realised that they need to do something useful to save the nation.

Minussing PKR, which is a multiracial party in its outlook, 2008 witnessed non-Muslims voting for PAS and Malays voting for DAP. Previously, such an incident somehow looks taboo and unable to happen. Perhaps, I have underestimated fellow Malaysians. It is time for the Malays, Chinese and Indians to hold hands and work together. Blaming each other's religions and races will bring us nowhere. We have to sit down and talk and kick out anyone or any parties that seek to use divide-and-rule strategy on the people. Question the leadership.

Breaking Barisan Rakyat Unity Using PAS
Malaysiakini posted PAS wins big with gentler image: analysts . I would believe this as true. Some important excerpts to justify :

a) Hadi Awang said there would not be any dramatic changes for non-Muslims in the new PAS-ruled Kedah, unlike when it took over Kelantan in 1990, and it intended to respect minority rights.

b) "Whatever we (restrict), it will be in consultation with the various races living in these states," he said. "Whatever is allowed by their religion we will not interfere in but what is banned in Islam, we will forbid for Muslims."

c) "Being the party of Islamic scholars, PAS will now have to tread a much more moderate line in ensuring that they can form a coalition with the DAP," he (Husam Musa) said.

According to Malaysia Today, someone has started to spread rumours to break the newly-found Barisan Rakyat unity. I have heard from somewhere that certain mainstream media lapdogs machinery have started to function. Yet again, will Malaysians be divided?

In The aftermath of the 'bloodbath' , Raja Petra wrote this piece :

Now, with regards to the talk floating around that Tok Guru Haji Abdul Hadi Awang has announced that Kedah is going to introduce Hudud laws; this is not true. Tok Guru confirmed he never made such an announcement. The trouble is, many of you wear these 'boycott the mainstream media' T-shirts yet you still read and believe what the mainstream media spins. Would you become terrible offended if I shout 'Bodoh punya orang!'? I really don't know what else to shout under these circumstances.

Let me repeat what I have said many, many times in the past. PAS does not have 150 seats in Parliament. In fact, PAS, DAP and PKR combined do not have 150 seats in Parliament. Read my lips. “PAS NEEDS 150 SEATS IN PARLIAMENT TO CHANGE THE LAWS OF THIS COUNTRY OR OF THE STATES!”

Anyway, 150 seats or no 150 seats, PAS does not intend to introduce Islamic laws, PERIOD.

Pragmatic Should Be the Word
For those not in the know, PAS only contested in 60 parliamentary seats, of which, not all were won. That is not even half of the two-third majority (150 seats) needed to form a government.

I believe PAS understands that it has to work with other parties (DAP and PKR). PAS is pragmatic enough to adjust itself. Now, there is no Islamic State. Its Manifesto for 2008 is Welfare State (Negara Berkebajikan), which, in a way is feasible and fair to people not from the Muslim community as well.

Reading the statements above, PAS is practical enough to consult non-Muslim communities before implementing any form of law or making any final decision. It is only concerned with Muslims. Hadi Awang has said it. There is always DAP and PKR to rely on.

We should all understand PAS has survived all this while because there is still support from Muslims. They believe that this party can fight for their cause. It is similar to DAP. Although there are people who speak about its irrelevance, we have to know DAP exists until this very day because there is support from the public. We can't just simply "deny" PAS and DAP and think they would disappear into thin air. That is not really sensible. I think DAP may be willing to be pragmatic but the problem rests not with the party but its supporters.

The latest method from certain lapdogs is to break the understanding between PAS and non-Muslim supporters. The way of doing it is easy. Since the mainstream media is controlled by Somebody, Somebody would play all these classic 1980s (28 years ago) stuff, painting PAS in an extreme way to the non-Muslims. For the Muslims, certain Malay papers could be made to paint DAP as this chauvinistic chinese party who will demand for everything and suppress the Malays. Standard divide-and-rule approach. The idea may be old but who knows it may work?

Anything minor or potentially exploitable will be capitalised. For instance, the Menteri Besar of Perak decision. Actually, the truth is, PAS havs just nominated a candidate for Menteri Besar. Due to the nature that the Perak state majority can only be established through the combination of 3 opposition parties, each party would provide a candidate for the Sultan of Perak to choose and DAP only said they would discuss with PKR for decision on a related issue.

Somebody actually tried to make it look like PAS and DAP cannot agree on anything. The point is, the spin doctor failed to realise PAS proposing a candidate and DAP discussing with PKR on this issue doesn't mean they are disagreeing. It is not logic to paint it that way. Of course, this show is catered for the non-Muslim audience of which a portion may be stupid enough to think DAP does not want PAS candidate to become the MB of Perak therefore a decision has yet to be made.

The Chinese often said the community is pragmatic. From the way I see it, this may not be the case. If they are far-sighted enough, they would have seen through the trick easily. Indians are more open to PAS and Malays to DAP than Chinese with PAS. To change one's fate, one has to collaborate with others. Perhaps it is high time to write about the kiasi and short-sightedness of Malaysian Chinese. Should add one more term too : "Not Pragmatic".

To Be Fair To PAS, DAP, PKR : Divide and Rule Strategy

I found out part of my article PAS, Samy, Hindu Temple Demolition was published on Husam Musa's (of PAS) blog. Husam Musa made a copy of an original article from Anak Bapa blog : PAS dan Isu Kebebasan Beragama (PAS and the Issue of Religious Freedom)

Husam Musa's article : http://www.husammusa.com/modules/news/article.php?storyid=365

Much has been promoted in the mainstream media on PAS being an intolerant party. PAS has been terribly tarnished by certain parties without much chance to redeem themselves in the eyes of the public. Are those who tarnished PAS as a 100% intolerant Islamist group the same parties that tarnished DAP as a 100% intolerant chinese chauvinist group and PKR as a 100% party made only for Anwar? Who is the main power behind all these things gets the most advantage from doing all that? These are questions that we should ponder.

Teresa Kok just held a press conference slamming a mainstream press who twisted her words. Allegedly, the press tried to put this DAP candidate against PAS on ethics. Teresa Kok did not even utter any form of statements on PAS during her campaigning. According to her blog , she is considering legal action on this mainstream local press if an official apology is not given for putting words in her mouth.


On PAS
Somebody created the impression that PAS is very intolerant towards other religions. However, the biggest Buddha statue in South East Asia is in Kelantan, a state controlled by PAS. How can that be happening if PAS is intolerant? PAS could have actually demolished it 18 years back when it first assumed control. Besides that, PAS did not declare any fatwa to disallow any contruction of worship places of other religions. PAS even gave out permits. Even Hindraf leader, Uthayakumar, who is born in Kelantan said he does not bear any grudges with PAS because PAS does not tear down Hindu temples in gangster-like manners. PAS Chairman of national unity, Mujahid Yusof Rawa disagrees with violent treatment and proposes diplomacy on temple issues. Pork is still on sale in Kelantan for non-Muslims. Males and females swim in the same swimming pool. People regardless of gender queue up in the same line. PAS did not do any keris waving with questionable remarks on non-Muslims. In fact, PAS feel that it is not the right thing to do. So, how could PAS be considered as intolerant if all these are happening?


It is indeed strange that Chinese and Indians in Kelantan can speak better Bahasa Melayu than their counterparts in West Malaysia. In fact, Kelantanese are more engaged in muhibbah (racial harmony) than West Malaysia. Visit Kelantan and see it for yourself.


On DAP
As for DAP, Somebody painted them as chauvinistically chinese. However, everybody forgot that Lim Guan Eng went to jail for a case during the course of helping a Malay lady. If Saudara Lim is from DAP and DAP is only for chinese then how could that happen? Certain people abused NEP to enrich their cronies. Common poor and working class Malays are marginalised because of such abuse. If DAP is criticising NEP because of that, how can they be considered as chinese-chauvinist? DAP has been exposing issues on corruption for years. Corruption is destroying Malaysia. Majority Malays and Indians being the poorest in Malaysia will suffer if the economy goes down because of corruption. If that is the case, how can DAP be regarded as chauvinist and not patriotic? If DAP people wanted to make money, they could have joined the fray as a crony party of this Big National party but why didn't they do it?


On PKR
Somebody even painted that PKR is a party created specifically for Anwar Ibrahim. Before his release from jail, Somebody said PKR was maintained as part of the Free Anwar movement. After his release, Somebody said PKR is only for Anwar to further his ambitions and nothing else. I feel disgusted with such tagging by Somebody. It is of course not 100% the fault of Somebody. Malaysians are equally stupid to easily believe in such low IQ rethoric.

Now, why are Malaysians foolish? Consider this. PKR is not a small party. It has an NGO president in the form of MTUC president Syed Shahir. There are people who quit Barisan Nasional to join PKR. If the party is made specifically "just for Anwar", don't you think it will be impossible to get NGOs for working society to join in. The NGO could have chosen to join Barisan Nasional. Don't you think it is silly that people would quit a lucrative party to join a less lucrative party to further only the ambition of a person who is not even their relative.

The fact that certain Malaysians believe such a twisted branding by Somebody on PKR is certainly intriguing.

Conclusion
The main aim of such consistent painting of false impression on PAS , DAP and PKR is part of the divide-and-rule strategy.

It is a strategy to compartmentalise voting groups into race and religion. Non-Muslims are made to be suspicious on PAS. Muslims are made to be careful on DAP. Mapping Anwar as being the sole figure of PKR is an attempt to totally get both Muslims and non-Muslims to shy away from PKR.

Will the strategy work? It may work in mixed races areas if Malaysians choose to be foolish and believe in such silly rethorics.

Malaysians - Malays, Chinese and Indians should wake up and realise that their enemies are not themselves but Corruption, Mismanagement and People who Divide-and-Rule them.

Blaming race and religion will get us nowhere. Blaming Malays, Chinese, Indians, Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Christians will get us nowhere. Ask the leadership who is in control of the information and we may get an answer.
___________________________________________________

Meanwhile, another story apart from the above is published in Malaysiakini titled : BN lambasted for racial campaign in Klang .

Excerpt: MCA’s campaign of ‘Chinese vote for Chinese’ has angered DAP’s Charles Santiago who wants the race factor to be kept out of the polls.

ISA is the Choice of Citizens ?

It is hard for a small-time blogger like me to make a decision on such a question. Perhaps, I shall just agree with Nazri Aziz's statement in the Aljazeera Forum . He said "Malaysians are not stupid and will be able to decide for themselves". It is high time for this blog to prove his words as true. Without further ado, let's take a look at a few matters at hand.

Citizens Want ISA It Seems
It is hard for one to restrain oneself from writing a blog when this piece of news from Bernama is floating around the net: Government Will Impose ISA When Situation Warrants, Says Abdullah .
Some important excerpts from the article:
"The ISA is a preventive measure to spare the nation from untoward incidents that can harm the prevailing peace and harmony and create all sorts of adverse things.

"So, I don't know (when to invoke the ISA), but ISA will be there. When it is appropriate to use it, it will be used," Abdullah, who is also Internal Security Minister, told reporters on his return from a two-day visit to Egypt.

The Prime Minister was responding to reports that several street demonstrations would be held in the country soon.

Commenting on calls from the people urging the Government to invoke the ISA to tackle street demonstrations, the Prime Minister said: "I am very surprised that the people want the ISA. I thought they never wanted the ISA".

Questions abundant
Let me put it this way. I am as surprised as the Prime Minister himself when I read the last sentence above. I was in the state of confusion for a while. After some thoughts, perhaps it is best to ask a few questions to our Prime Minister in order to clear things up :

1) When you are talking about people wanting ISA a.k.a. The Detention-Without-Trial Act, which group are you referring to?
a) UMNO, MCA, MIC and BN people? or
b) Malaysian Commoners?

2) Please define properly, in unambiguous, official language on what is considered as "appropriate" for use? If certain races are marginalised and they only choose to submit a memorandum, would that be considered appropriate ? How about those that ask for electoral reforms and clean elections? Is it "appropriate" to use it on them?

3) Will ISA be executed on people who wield keris in meetings, asking when the keris would be used and expressing an interest to bathe it in someone's blood? Please do not tell the citizens that such actions and remarks are peaceful. Anyway, since Nazri had mentioned Malaysians are not stupid, I shall let them judge.

4) Is challenging or criticising the Prime Minister in one's written opinion liable for ISA as well? Citizens are concerned when certain people express words like "Saya Pantang Dicabar" ( I am Allergic to Challenge) in public.

5) Pak Lah, perhaps you should read the statements from Wikipedia on Internal Security Act . Allegedly, it mentioned what you spoke in 1988 and the year before on ISA being a draconian law. Is it true? Now you are saying you will use ISA. What is that supposed to mean, goodness gracious ?

Citizens Want Oppression ?
The defintion of "Draconian" according to Wiktionary :
Etymology: From the Athenian lawmaker Draco, known for making harsh laws.
Description: Very severe, oppressive or strict.
Example of usage: The despot chose a draconian punishment for the revolutionary. The Nazi regime was a draconian regime.

Meanwhile, a Malay progressive published an open letter in her blog titled "Dear PM Abdullah Badawi, Please Don't Follow Musharraf". As a Malay Muslim, she does not support the points mentioned in Hindraf's memorandum but she understands draconian law should never be executed in the name of democracy.

Furthermore, I would like to reiterate Nazri's statement ( Aljazeera Forum ) : "Malaysians are not stupid". I do not think Malaysians are stupid enough to support the implementation of an opressive law that will be imposed on themselves.

However, there could be some "smart" Malaysians who may want to impose such law on other Malaysians for a number of reasons beneficial to themselves, like free lunches etc.

Think about it.....

Maintenance of Peace and Harmony
There are many ways a government can maintain peace and harmony. Take for example, the previous Malaysian Indians rally in Malaysia.

For so many years, Malaysian Indians have been silent over their problems. They did not march or do anything of such massive proportions. The fact that they did it the other day signifies there are serious underlying issues concerning the society that should be addressed immediately.

In fact, it may already be a little too late. Still it is better late than never. If the government ( I would prefer to refer this to the Malaysian Indian Congress a.k.a. MIC ) intends to maintain an ambience of peace and harmony within the community, the leadership of MIC must answer their woes and explain thoroughly to the laymen Indians instead of condemning hard on those who have participated in the rally. Direct or indirect attempts to simply dismiss the rally as non-relevant will not make the people satisfied. MIC should also provide a blueprint on what is their long-term constructive plan to improve the livelihood and rights of the community. Temple demolition issues should be addressed. By right, all these actions should have been done earlier. Prevention is better than cure.

Using an oppressive law to curb dissent is definitely easier than all the efforts above. Members of Parliament should know that their tasks are not meant to be easy. MPs are supposed to be serving the community instead of placing full concentration on money-making only.

Problems should be solved from the root and not the symptoms. The logical outcome of utilising oppression on protesters will create a negative situation. When people choose not to protest, it could be out of fear of ISA. Intimidation using non-humanitarian laws or denial of social issues are equivalent to eliminating the symptoms of a critical disease. The absence of symptoms does not mean the absence of disease. Once the disease reaches the point of incurability, the protests may resume in bigger numbers when overwhelming anger and/or dissatisfaction supercedes fear.

From time to time, MIC MPs must speak to the commoners to understand and solve issues faced by the community. It is THE JOB of an MP. This is the only way to maintain peace, harmony and stability. Opression is not a permanent solution.

Indeed, somebody said the culture of protest is not the culture of Malaysians, especially Indians. I dare to bet protests are not even the first choice of Indians to highlight their problems. It is not the culture of human to feel happy being dismissed or their problems ignored for several times. Is it the culture of the MIC MP to listen and to seek to understand their community?

Ooops, I am sorry, that is supposed to be A JOB, not a culture. Did you do YOUR JOB well (to maintain peace and harmony), my dear MIC MPs? Ask yourselves.

In the meantime, Malaysiakini reports : More rallies in Kuala Lumpur next month (December 2007) .

Oppression is not an option in a democratic nation.

The Yellow Wave: How Come Opposition-Led?

(Picture from Elizabeth Wong: Rakyat pantang dicabar!. That's 40,000 participants)

On 10th November 2007, 40,000 protesters marched the streets of Kuala Lumpur, braved the rainstorm, conquered their fears and headed towards Istana Negara to submit a Memorandum for a Clean and Fair Election to Yang Di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan, the Monarch of Malaysia.

Malaysian Unplug Uncensored had the full text of electoral reform requests from BERSIH Memorandum presented to His Royal Highness. Indeed all the points stated in the article are with good intentions and for the best of the nation.

According to the online paper, The Star, the nation's "Beloved Prime Minister" Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said "Saturday’s street protest in Kuala Lumpur was an attempt to drag the royalty into opposition politics". On top of that, he added that the memorandum being handed over to an Istana Negara official was a move by the opposition to “trap” the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

Shocking statements. It is indeed a sad affair that our "Beloved Prime Minister" Pak Lah cannot look beyond the division of politics for the benefit of the nation. If the Rakyat can see the bigger picture, why can't the Administration? BERSIH is actually a coalition of 60 plus Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and a small insignificant number of political parties, of which coincidentally consists of the Opposition. Only 5 to be exact.

UMNO should have tagged along for Clean Election demand


(Picture from Elizabeth Wong: Rakyat pantang dicabar!. That's 40,000 participants)

The demands for a clean election would not look like opposition-led as our "Beloved Prime Minister" claimed (although not a fact) if his ruling party, currently the most powerful in Malaysia by the name of UMNO and its sub-components in Barisan Nasional vow to tag along with BERSIH.

If UMNO or Barisan Nasional (hereafter called BN) under the leadership of our Beloved Pak Lah were to participate, things would definitely had turned out differently. The headlines in papers such as The Star and New Sunday Times could be "UMNO supports BERSIH demands for clean election". Sounds nice. How positive it would have been for BN.

Regrettably, a massive party like UMNO decided not to support BERSIH. In fact, Pak Lah proved his critics wrong (on saying he is sleeping all the time) by giving a strong and confident declaration "Saya pantang dicabar" (I do not like to be challenged). This statement proved himself a powerful person and not weak as some thought. According to Malaysiakini on its 6th November 2007 article, Khairy wants Bersih rally organisers arrested.

It is certainly ironic for the Beloved Son-In-Law of the Beloved Prime Minister to make such a public statement because he is neither a Minister or a Member of Parliament. In a bizarre way, true to his predictions, arrests were indeed made on BERSIH Participants a.k.a Citizens concerned with Malaysia. There are some allegations in the internet that certain journalists are being beaten, tear gas being fired and chemical-laced water cannons being sprayed.

It is unclear (to me) on the reasons UMNO and BN are giving such a resistance to the Peaceful BERSIH Rally demands that are beneficial for the nation as a whole. It is open to readers to guess the possible answers. After all, UMNO and BN have ruled Malaysia since Independence / Merdeka, suffering only from a crisis in 1969. To top it off, there are even calls within the party for another additional 50 years of UMNO, BN rule.

Of course, UMNO, BN ruled by winning in the current election system. 40,000 displeased citizens regardless of political affiliations, groups and parties had taken the difficulty of walking in wet clothes to submit a memorandum to reform the election system in which UMNO and BN have been using and winning all these years.

Why did UMNO not join BERSIH in the rally but resent it so much? (P.S. I must admit I am a pretty stupid person for asking this question)

Citizens do not want His Royal Highness Agong to be 'trapped' with Potential Unclean Elections



(Picture from Kickdefella: Daulat Tuanku!)

Pak Lah stated that there are parties that intend to 'trap' (such negative word) Yang Di-Pertuan Agong and attempt to drag His Majesty into opposition politics. The previous section stated that UMNO should have joined the rally so that it does not become opposition politics. It is still unclear (to me) on why UMNO did not join in.

On the other hand, there is absolutely a main reason that Non-Partisan Citizens a.k.a. BERSIH rally participants from all over Malaysia support the submission of the memorandum. That is because they do not want Yang Di-Pertuan Agong to be 'trapped' by "divide and conquer" politics and "unclean elections". After all the citizens are His Majesty's subjects and His Royal Highness is bound by certain governance on making sure the Parliament is formed legally through Genuine Democracy. After all, this Parliament would represent him in governing his subjects. Unclean and Unfair Elections are equivalent to Sham / False Democracy.

The peaceful BERSIH rally is to campaign for Genuine Democracy.

If there is intention of anyone to say that the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong is not supposed to be in politics, the perception would be totally wrong. After all, Malaysia is a country of Constitutional Monarchy. The word "Monarch" symbolises none other than Yang Di-Pertuan Agong. The Constitution provided certain power for His Royal Highness to react against those who creates Sham Democracy.

The citizens want Genuine Democracy too. That is what the walk is all about. Do you get the point, Pak Lah?

Malaysian Unplug Uncensored posted the article : " What's Next After the Nov 10 People's Rally ? " after the submission of the memorandum for electoral reform.

I am still in a daze, wondering why UMNO or BN would not participate in this event. If it's good for democracy and citizens, why not? I must be a stupid person myself for not being able to figure it out.

Nuff said. :-)

Other posts on BERSIH rally:
BERSIH: The Yellow Wave (Pics) Part 1
BERSIH: The Yellow Wave (Pics) Part 2
BERSIH: The Yellow Wave (Pics) Part 3
The Yellow Wave: How Come Opposition-Led?