Saturday 14 February 2015
Video shows ISIS prepping boy for suicide attack
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Rudaw Media Network has obtained a shocking, exclusive video filmed by ISIS militants during a massive assault on Mala Abdulla village near Kirkuk.
Video link: http://rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/120220154
Leaders of the roughly 600-strong ISIS force are shown boasting of their power to capture Erbil and Sulaimani, and cities "all the way to Rome."
As shown on camera, ISIS militants prepare a 12-year-old boy to carry out a suicide car. The young man smiles as they promise he will soon be married in heaven.
Militants are shown teaching village children near Mala Abdulla ISIS slogans such as “ The Islamic State will Survive.”
“When we retook control of Mala Abdulla village, we captured the camera of the Iranian Sunni ISIS fighter who filmed the footage when they were preparing themselves to attack the Peshmarga bases,Î said Anwar Haji Osma, a top Peshmarga official who obtained video.
Video link: http://rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/120220154
Leaders of the roughly 600-strong ISIS force are shown boasting of their power to capture Erbil and Sulaimani, and cities "all the way to Rome."
As shown on camera, ISIS militants prepare a 12-year-old boy to carry out a suicide car. The young man smiles as they promise he will soon be married in heaven.
Militants are shown teaching village children near Mala Abdulla ISIS slogans such as “ The Islamic State will Survive.”
“When we retook control of Mala Abdulla village, we captured the camera of the Iranian Sunni ISIS fighter who filmed the footage when they were preparing themselves to attack the Peshmarga bases,Î said Anwar Haji Osma, a top Peshmarga official who obtained video.
ISIS Defends Burning Jordanian Pilot Alive, Says Prophet Mohammed Would Have Done Same Thing
The video released on to the internet February 3 depicted 26-year-old pilot Moaz al-Kasabeh imprisoned in a cage, where he was doused in gasoline and set on fire by his ISIS captors. The video produced immediate revulsion not only in the West — which has seen several of its own ISIS captives murdered in videotaped beheadings — but in the Muslim world as well, with even the government of Iran issuing a statement condemning the murder as “inhumane and un-Islamic.”
Another terrorist group, the Lebanese-based Hezbollah, condemned the death-by-burning of al-Kasabeh as “the most gruesome” atrocity yet comitted by ISIS, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan — who has been accused of covertly supporting ISIS by allowing the terror group’s recruits to cross Turkish borders into Syria — also expressed disgust with the videotaped murder.
“I curse and damn the burning of the Jordanian pilot,” Erdogan said.
Perhaps in response to what may have been an unexpectedly strong condemnation from other Muslims, ISIS used the latest issue of its propaganda magazine Dabiq to defend the burning of a living human being.
“In burning the crusader pilot alive and burying him under a pile of debris, the Islamic State carried out a just form of retaliation for his involvement in the crusader bombing campaign which continues to result in the killing of countless Muslims who, as a result of these airstrikes, are burned alive and buried under mountains of debris,” an article in Issue 7 of Dabiq stated.The article went on to attempt to justify the burning of al-Kasabeh in religious terms, saying that the ISIS killers “followed the footsteps of Allah’s Messenger … in his harshness towards the disbelievers.”
“Allah’s messenger” refers to the prophet Mohammed, Islam’s founder and most sacred figure other than Allah — that is, God.
The article is titled “The Burning of the Murtadd (Apostate) Pilot,” and also accuses the Muslim critics of the ISIS burning of the Jordanian pilot of “masquerading as supporters of the mujahidin” and saying they are “always amongst the first to speak out in any case where the mujahidin display their harshness towards the crusaders.”
Read more at http://www.inquisitr.com/1837799/isis-jordanian-pilot/#ZVeEbuJrl9OXkgGp.99
The article is titled “The Burning of the Murtadd (Apostate) Pilot,” and also accuses the Muslim critics of the ISIS burning of the Jordanian pilot of “masquerading as supporters of the mujahidin” and saying they are “always amongst the first to speak out in any case where the mujahidin display their harshness towards the crusaders.”
Read more at http://www.inquisitr.com/1837799/isis-jordanian-pilot/#ZVeEbuJrl9OXkgGp.99
Perkasa boss under fire over critical Nik Aziz post
At a time when Malaysians are mourning the
passing of Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat, a post on Perkasa president Ibrahim
Ali's Facebook page ridiculed the long-serving PAS leader.
Predictably, the post drew an avalanche of criticism.
"My condolences to his family. May Allah bless his soul... His passing is no surprise. He is not healthy and is of old age.
"A lot of people praise him because he is an ulama (cleric) and is known as tok guru (teacher), even though he doesn't help develop Kelantan all that much.
"In
fact, Islam has not developed in Kelantan and hudud law is not
implemented during his lifetime and 20 year reign," says the posting on
Ibrahim's Facebook page.
Too late for retraction
The post, authored last night, attracted more than 2,000 comments, mostly condemnations.
Contacted later, Ibrahim replied by a text message that his Facebook page was not managed by him and the statement had been "dibatal" (cancelled).
It is understood that Ibrahim is currently abroad.
Shortly after being contacted, the post on his Facebook page was removed.
At about 1pm, a new post was uploaded expressing just his condolence to Nik Aziz's family and nothing more.
However, the first few comments from readers stated that they have already screen captured the deleted post for posterity.
FB handler to blame?
Yesterday, Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob was also caught in a similar Facebook faux pas by posting a purported joint statement with MCA president Liow Tiong Lai.
The
joint statement said he had met Liow and the duo decided to issue a
joint statement to clear the air over the "boycott Chinese businesses"
remark made by Ismail Sabri’s (left).
However, Liow responded immediately to Ismail's posting, saying the statement was issued without his knowledge and that he had not met with Ismail on the matter.
This led a red-faced Ismail to delete the purported joint statement from his Facebook page.
Predictably, the post drew an avalanche of criticism.
"My condolences to his family. May Allah bless his soul... His passing is no surprise. He is not healthy and is of old age.
"A lot of people praise him because he is an ulama (cleric) and is known as tok guru (teacher), even though he doesn't help develop Kelantan all that much.
"In
fact, Islam has not developed in Kelantan and hudud law is not
implemented during his lifetime and 20 year reign," says the posting on
Ibrahim's Facebook page.Too late for retraction
The post, authored last night, attracted more than 2,000 comments, mostly condemnations.
Contacted later, Ibrahim replied by a text message that his Facebook page was not managed by him and the statement had been "dibatal" (cancelled).
It is understood that Ibrahim is currently abroad.
Shortly after being contacted, the post on his Facebook page was removed.
At about 1pm, a new post was uploaded expressing just his condolence to Nik Aziz's family and nothing more.
However, the first few comments from readers stated that they have already screen captured the deleted post for posterity.
FB handler to blame?
Yesterday, Agriculture and Agro-based Industries Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob was also caught in a similar Facebook faux pas by posting a purported joint statement with MCA president Liow Tiong Lai.
The
joint statement said he had met Liow and the duo decided to issue a
joint statement to clear the air over the "boycott Chinese businesses"
remark made by Ismail Sabri’s (left).However, Liow responded immediately to Ismail's posting, saying the statement was issued without his knowledge and that he had not met with Ismail on the matter.
This led a red-faced Ismail to delete the purported joint statement from his Facebook page.
1MDB sudah langsai hutang, kata Arul
Presiden dan Pengarah Eksekutif Kumpulan 1MDB itu mengesahkan laporan The Malaysian Insider pagi ini yang melaporkan pinjaman itu dilangsaikan sebelum tarikh akhir ditetapkan, mengikut terma perjanjian pinjaman.
“Dengan penyelesaian pinjaman ini, saya ingin menegaskan komitmen 1MDB menyelesaikan semua kewajipan hutang kami mengikut tarikh yang ditetapkan,” kata Arul dalam satu kenyataan hari ini. – 13 Februari, 2015.
MCA should not accept Ismail Sabri’s ‘regret’, says DAP
Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob's "regret" over his call for a boycott of Chinese businesses was meaningless until he apologised, the DAP told Chinese Barisan Nasional-component party MCA.DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng said MCA president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai's move to accept it only encouraged Umno leaders to continue perpetuating racist and extremist views.
"Ismail did not apologise for his statement. There was no remorse expressed by Ismail to the Chinese community for hurting them with lies.
"How can Liow accept this when Ismail had maligned the Chinese of oppressing the Malays and that Chinese traders are to be blamed for not reducing prices?
"It is sad that Liow has meekly accepted Ismail’s illogical rationale that appears to justify his attacks against the Chinese," Lim said in a statement.
Ismail, who is the agriculture and agro-based industries minister, on Facebook called for Malay consumers to boycott Chinese businesses in a move to fight profiteering.
English-language daily The Star today reported that Ismail regretted calling for a boycott.
He was quoted as saying that he did not intended to create any racial tension as his remarks were targeted at traders who did not want to lower prices of goods, irrespective of race.
"My comments have gone viral. I regret the statement has led to racial sentiments," he said.
Lim said this showed that Ismail was not remorseful for the Facebook posts.
"This general clarification does not amount to retracting or apologising to the Chinese," he added.
Lim also criticised Liow who accepted the Ismail's expression of regret and urged everyone to move on.
In a separate report by The Star, Liow said: "As my colleague, Datuk Seri Ismail has officially issued a statement of regret, and as a member of the Cabinet, I take note of his statement of regret and hope that this matter is put to rest and we shall move on".
Lim said Liow had let down the Chinese by accepting Ismail's regret without a retraction or an apology. – February 13, 2015.
- See more at: http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/mca-should-not-accept-ismail-sabris-regret-says-dap#sthash.1PhUDRM1.dpuf
ISMA warns of challenges from West’s proxies
Even without Anwar, the Jews, Evangelists and racist Chinese won't back down, says Abdullah Zaik.
FMT
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will continue to face political challenges from Western proxies despite Anwar Ibrahim’s absence from the scene, ISMA President Abdullah Zaik Abdul Rahman said in a press statement today.
He described Anwar as a “small player” who would have no significant effect on the future of Malaysian politics.
“Yes, Anwar has charisma and influence, but he does not determine how the political game is played in Malaysia,” Abdullah said.
“Western proxies, especially the Jews, the Evangelists and the chauvinistic and racist Chinese movement will continue to be the major factor influencing the future of Malaysian politics.
“Whether Anwar is present or absent, these movements will not retreat.”
He urged Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and Umno not to let Anwar’s imprisonment lull them into complacency. It was still necessary for them to think of ways of uniting the Malays in the context of strengthening national unity, he said.
“Otherwise, the challenges to Najib’s leadership will continue,” he warned. “The leadership will face continued pressure to promote the Malay agenda to a convincing level.
“This is because the pro-Western forces, the Evangelists and the Chinese racists will provoke an uprising among the Malays. At the same time, there may be pressure from within Umno for changes to be made.”
FMT
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will continue to face political challenges from Western proxies despite Anwar Ibrahim’s absence from the scene, ISMA President Abdullah Zaik Abdul Rahman said in a press statement today.
He described Anwar as a “small player” who would have no significant effect on the future of Malaysian politics.
“Yes, Anwar has charisma and influence, but he does not determine how the political game is played in Malaysia,” Abdullah said.
“Western proxies, especially the Jews, the Evangelists and the chauvinistic and racist Chinese movement will continue to be the major factor influencing the future of Malaysian politics.
“Whether Anwar is present or absent, these movements will not retreat.”
He urged Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and Umno not to let Anwar’s imprisonment lull them into complacency. It was still necessary for them to think of ways of uniting the Malays in the context of strengthening national unity, he said.
“Otherwise, the challenges to Najib’s leadership will continue,” he warned. “The leadership will face continued pressure to promote the Malay agenda to a convincing level.
“This is because the pro-Western forces, the Evangelists and the Chinese racists will provoke an uprising among the Malays. At the same time, there may be pressure from within Umno for changes to be made.”
Court accused of victimising disabled man
Hindraf leader says that despite posting bail, a court registrar refuses to release the man accused of throwing a slipper at a cop.
FMT
PETALING JAYA: Hindraf has expressed its disappointment at the courts for refusing to release a disabled man, M Krishnan, accused of throwing a slipper at a cop, despite bail of RM1,500 having been posted this morning by Hindraf for him.
Speaking to FMT, Hindraf’s de-facto leader P Uthayakumar said, “We received numerous complaints from our supporters that this man is being victimised.”
Uthaya explained that Hindraf had used its funds to pay Krishnan’s bail, only to learn later from court registrar Roslan Mohd Noor of the Selangor Courts, that Krishnan would only be released next Wednesday.
“He’s completely at a disadvantaged position as he’s alone and handicapped, going against the might of the entire police force,” Uthaya said, adding that a five-day delay was unconstitutional.
“The minute I pay the bail money, you should release the person. An hour is fair, and at worst they should release him after Friday prayers, but not next Wednesday. That’s not right,” lamented Uthaya.
Uthaya who’s mobility is limited due to a fractured leg, also said that he managed to get in touch with the office of Administrative Judge Tasnim Abu Bakar regarding the matter.
Back in October 2014, a man similar in appearance to Krishnan was photographed holding a slipper against the picture of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak during a protest, and Uthaya does not rule out the possibility of a vendetta by the authorities.
Uthaya, who doesn’t deny the possibility of Krishnan also being involved in the October incident, said, “Video of that incident outside Parliament went viral in Malaysia and got widespread attention.
“They couldn’t charge the person then, but now they are picking on Krishnan for this slipper incident. I feel he’s being victimised.
Uthaya’s main concern however, he stressed, was that Krishnan was disabled and an extended stay in prison would be harmful to him.
“In my 25 years of service in law, I haven’t seen anything like this. Justice administration is regressing in Malaysia,” lamented Uthaya.
Krishnan was charged at the Selayang magistrate’s court on February 11, for allegedly flinging a slipper at a policeman on February 3 at the Mariamman Temple in Batu Caves, Selayang.
Krishnan however has maintained his innocence.
PETALING JAYA: Hindraf has expressed its disappointment at the courts for refusing to release a disabled man, M Krishnan, accused of throwing a slipper at a cop, despite bail of RM1,500 having been posted this morning by Hindraf for him.
Speaking to FMT, Hindraf’s de-facto leader P Uthayakumar said, “We received numerous complaints from our supporters that this man is being victimised.”
Uthaya explained that Hindraf had used its funds to pay Krishnan’s bail, only to learn later from court registrar Roslan Mohd Noor of the Selangor Courts, that Krishnan would only be released next Wednesday.
“He’s completely at a disadvantaged position as he’s alone and handicapped, going against the might of the entire police force,” Uthaya said, adding that a five-day delay was unconstitutional.
“The minute I pay the bail money, you should release the person. An hour is fair, and at worst they should release him after Friday prayers, but not next Wednesday. That’s not right,” lamented Uthaya.
Uthaya who’s mobility is limited due to a fractured leg, also said that he managed to get in touch with the office of Administrative Judge Tasnim Abu Bakar regarding the matter.
Back in October 2014, a man similar in appearance to Krishnan was photographed holding a slipper against the picture of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak during a protest, and Uthaya does not rule out the possibility of a vendetta by the authorities.
Uthaya, who doesn’t deny the possibility of Krishnan also being involved in the October incident, said, “Video of that incident outside Parliament went viral in Malaysia and got widespread attention.
“They couldn’t charge the person then, but now they are picking on Krishnan for this slipper incident. I feel he’s being victimised.
Uthaya’s main concern however, he stressed, was that Krishnan was disabled and an extended stay in prison would be harmful to him.
“In my 25 years of service in law, I haven’t seen anything like this. Justice administration is regressing in Malaysia,” lamented Uthaya.
Krishnan was charged at the Selayang magistrate’s court on February 11, for allegedly flinging a slipper at a policeman on February 3 at the Mariamman Temple in Batu Caves, Selayang.
Krishnan however has maintained his innocence.
Nazrin: Study new methods to teach the Quran
A more dynamic format comprising analysis, strategy, science, philosophy, genealogy is needed, says Perak Sultan.
FMT
IPOH: The Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah ordered the Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) today to study the findings of the survey on the effectiveness of the Quran and Fardu Ain Class (Kafa).
Sultan Nazrin said this was vital in order to formulate new methods for the teaching and learning of Quran, which should also focus on the aspects of understanding and observation.
“MAIPk should also set up a working group to formulate a more dynamic format for the teaching and learning of Quran, comprising components of analysis, strategy, science, philosophy, genealogy and background concerning the reception of certain revelations.
“The membership of this working group must represent various constituents, so that a more comprehensive and relevant method for the teaching and learning of the Quran can be formulated,” he said.
The survey on Kafa’s effectiveness was being done by the Perak Islamic Religious Department with the cooperation from the Sultan Azlan Shah Islamic University College.
Sultan Nazrin said this at the ceremony to present the Letters of Appointment for the MAIPk president and members, to accept business tithe from eight agencies and to witness the signing of a joint-venture agreement for property development between MAIPk and UDA Waqf Sdn Bhd, here today.
– BERNAMA
FMT
IPOH: The Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah ordered the Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) today to study the findings of the survey on the effectiveness of the Quran and Fardu Ain Class (Kafa).
Sultan Nazrin said this was vital in order to formulate new methods for the teaching and learning of Quran, which should also focus on the aspects of understanding and observation.
“MAIPk should also set up a working group to formulate a more dynamic format for the teaching and learning of Quran, comprising components of analysis, strategy, science, philosophy, genealogy and background concerning the reception of certain revelations.
“The membership of this working group must represent various constituents, so that a more comprehensive and relevant method for the teaching and learning of the Quran can be formulated,” he said.
The survey on Kafa’s effectiveness was being done by the Perak Islamic Religious Department with the cooperation from the Sultan Azlan Shah Islamic University College.
Sultan Nazrin said this at the ceremony to present the Letters of Appointment for the MAIPk president and members, to accept business tithe from eight agencies and to witness the signing of a joint-venture agreement for property development between MAIPk and UDA Waqf Sdn Bhd, here today.
– BERNAMA
Klang gangster stabbed to death near restaurant
He was having a drink with a friend in a restaurant when they were set upon.
FMT
KLANG: In what appeared to be a drug dispute between two rival gangs, a notorious Klang gangster was stabbed to death by three men during a brawl outside a restaurant in Teluk Panglima Garang.
The 35-year-old, known as “Asli Guna”, was having a drink with a Sri Lankan friend at a restaurant in Jalan Pandan 2 when the three parang-wielding men drove up at about 3am on Wednesday.
There was an argument in the middle of the road and Asli Guna and his friend were attacked by the armed men, the Star online reported.
Kuala Langat OCPD Supt Azman Abdul Razak said the men allegedly stabbed Asli Guna and the foreigner before speeding away in a black Proton Iswara.
“We received a distress call from the restaurant owner. When our officers arrived, we found the Sri Lankan man injured.
“Asli Guna, however, was rushed by his friends to the Sentosa Medical Centre before he was pronounced dead at about 5am,” he said.
A police source said Asli Guna was a notorious gang leader and that his killing occurred due to a drug dispute with the three suspects.
“We have recorded a statement from the Sri Lankan victim, who is recovering at the Banting Hospital. We have identified the suspects and are tracking them down,” Supt Azman said.
FMT
KLANG: In what appeared to be a drug dispute between two rival gangs, a notorious Klang gangster was stabbed to death by three men during a brawl outside a restaurant in Teluk Panglima Garang.
The 35-year-old, known as “Asli Guna”, was having a drink with a Sri Lankan friend at a restaurant in Jalan Pandan 2 when the three parang-wielding men drove up at about 3am on Wednesday.
There was an argument in the middle of the road and Asli Guna and his friend were attacked by the armed men, the Star online reported.
Kuala Langat OCPD Supt Azman Abdul Razak said the men allegedly stabbed Asli Guna and the foreigner before speeding away in a black Proton Iswara.
“We received a distress call from the restaurant owner. When our officers arrived, we found the Sri Lankan man injured.
“Asli Guna, however, was rushed by his friends to the Sentosa Medical Centre before he was pronounced dead at about 5am,” he said.
A police source said Asli Guna was a notorious gang leader and that his killing occurred due to a drug dispute with the three suspects.
“We have recorded a statement from the Sri Lankan victim, who is recovering at the Banting Hospital. We have identified the suspects and are tracking them down,” Supt Azman said.
Swiss to raise Anwar at UN Human Rights Council
Swiss Embassy in Kuala Lumpur reminds Malaysian authorities of the rule of law and the right to a fair trial.
FMT
KUALA LUMPUR: Switzerland will raise the jailing of Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim at the next meeting of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, a Swiss government spokesperson said on Friday.
According to a statement by the Swiss Foreign Ministry, obtained by the Swiss NGO Bruno Manser Fund (BMF), the Swiss Embassy in Kuala Lumpur has also reminded the Malaysian authorities that Switzerland lends importance to respect for the rule of law and the right to a fair trial.
The Swiss Foreign Ministry will also raise Anwar’s plight during the next round of bilateral political talks between Malaysia and Switzerland later this year.
Human rights issues are part of the ongoing free trade talks between Malaysia and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), for which Switzerland is the lead negotiator within EFTA.
The Bruno Manser Fund, in welcoming the statement by the Swiss authorities, called on the international community to demand that Malaysia immediately release Anwar from jail.
The Federal Court, on Tuesday, upheld a Court of Appeal verdict jailing Anwar for five years on a sodomy charge. “The trial was flawed,” said BMF.
BMF also stressed that Anwar’s alleged sex partner met with then Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and lead prosecutor Muhammad Shafee Abdullah at Najib’s house two days before the alleged offence took place.
KUALA LUMPUR: Switzerland will raise the jailing of Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim at the next meeting of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, a Swiss government spokesperson said on Friday.
According to a statement by the Swiss Foreign Ministry, obtained by the Swiss NGO Bruno Manser Fund (BMF), the Swiss Embassy in Kuala Lumpur has also reminded the Malaysian authorities that Switzerland lends importance to respect for the rule of law and the right to a fair trial.
The Swiss Foreign Ministry will also raise Anwar’s plight during the next round of bilateral political talks between Malaysia and Switzerland later this year.
Human rights issues are part of the ongoing free trade talks between Malaysia and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), for which Switzerland is the lead negotiator within EFTA.
The Bruno Manser Fund, in welcoming the statement by the Swiss authorities, called on the international community to demand that Malaysia immediately release Anwar from jail.
The Federal Court, on Tuesday, upheld a Court of Appeal verdict jailing Anwar for five years on a sodomy charge. “The trial was flawed,” said BMF.
BMF also stressed that Anwar’s alleged sex partner met with then Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and lead prosecutor Muhammad Shafee Abdullah at Najib’s house two days before the alleged offence took place.
Mahathir seemed to have crossed the Rubicon and is going for the kill in his campaign to topple Najib as Prime Minister
By Lim Kit Siang BlogFormer Prime Minister and UMNO’s eminence grise, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad seemed to have crossed the Rubicon and is going for the kill in his campaign to topple Datuk Seri Najib Razak as Prime Minister and add another item in his collection of the scalps of Prime Ministers and Deputy Prime Ministers in Malaysia.
Najib and his advisers might have thought that Mahathir would have been appeased at least temporarily with the Federal Court’s unconvincing dismissal of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s appeal and sending the 67-year-old one-time nemesis of Mahathir back to prison for the third time to serve a five-year jail sentence, but it is clear that such calculations were completely misplaced.
On the very evening of the Federal Court’s two-hour decision, which was forever tarnished by the outrageous three-paragraph statement of the Prime Minister’s Office raising the strongest doubts about the full restoration of a truly independent judiciary and a just rule of law in Malaysia, Mahathir wrote the infamous blog “Something Rotten”, quoting Marcellus in Shakespeare’s Hamlet in the immortal remark that “something is rotten in the state of Denmark”.
It was the most ironic culmination of a most “rotten day” of all decent and rational Malaysians, which saw a patriot and nationalist who had dedicated 47 years of his life to the pursuit of freedom, justice, human dignity and national unity returning to incarceration for the third time in his life, at the age of 67 on a most ridiculous charge and outrageous legal and judicial process.
There was no scarcity of ironies, for it was under Mahathir during his 22-year premiership from 1981-2003 that the rot started in Malaysia, where public and political decencies still respected and observed under the first three Prime Ministers, Tunku Abdul Rahman, Tun Razak and Tun Hussein Onn, were thrown to the winds.
The ramparts of freedom, justice and human dignity came under ceaseless attack, resulting in the worsening of the rot with the destruction of democratic institutions and the doctrine of the separation of powers; the independence and integrity of the judiciary; the just rule of law; professional and independent national institutions whether the civil service, the police, the elections commission or anti-corruption agency; ethical and incorruptible leadership; a world-class education system and a dynamic and competitive economy which can compete with the rest of the world.
Yesterday marked another escalation of the battle of titans between Mahathir and Najib when the former Prime Minister declared that he would quit if he was the Prime Minister today.
He said that a PM should “make things easy” and resign if he cannot perform.
Ironically, Mahathir said this in his talk at a public forum titled ‘The Malaysian Dilemma’ in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, as Najib’s fate has morphed into a new “Malay Dilemma” for Mahathir.
While Mahathir should be applauded for adding his voice to those who questioned Najib’s brainchild, the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB), saying that there shouldn’t have been a 1MDB at all and calling for accountability and transparency, is Mahathir prepared to allow his 22 years of premiership of Malaysia starting on the “rot of Denmark” to be fully investigated and examined?
PLKN Not Mere Cosmetic - Hishammuddin
PUTRAJAYA,
Feb 13 (Bernama) -- The National Service Training Programme (PLKN) is
not mere cosmetic but will bring about change and significant
improvement.Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein said the training programme is not all about the singing of patriotic songs and the chanting of slogans.
"The people out there want to see major changes so that we can convince the parents and their children to join PLKN voluntarily," he said at the 'On Boarding Session' of the PLKN Transformation Laboratory, here today.
The PLKN Transformation Laboratory from Feb 23 to March 26 is participated by 85 stakeholders such as the ministries, government agencies, the private sector, industry players, youths, trainers, camp operators and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
Hishammuddin hopes the laboratory can find the best formula to make PLKN the platform to increase the involvement of youths regardless of race and political ideology, and to remain relevant and effective in today's world.
"The world is full of hatred, disunity, violence and murder. Via PLKN, the trainees can share their views and not easily swayed by emotion and can discuss things rationally and with maturity."
A total of 832,712 trainees had participated in PLKN since it was introduced in 2004.
On Jan 10, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak announced the suspension of the 2015 PLKN session as part of cost-cutting measures by the government.
-- BERNAMA
Blaming Karpal for Anwar’s downfall is ‘utter rubbish’
Gobind Singh Deo tears into lead prosecutor Mohd Shafee Abdullah’s accusation saying the opposite is true.
FMT
KUALA LUMPUR: Gobind Singh Deo, son of the late Karpal Singh, today lambasted Mohd Shafee Abdullah, lead prosecutor in Anwar Ibrahim’s recent sodomy trial, for suggesting that his father “threw the first stone” against Anwar.
Describing Shafee’s allegations as “utter rubbish” and “the lowest of low,” the Puchong MP invoked Hansard, the official parliamentary record of proceedings to set the record straight.
He pointed out that various allegations, including that of sexual misconduct, were first made against Anwar in 1997 and that in keeping with his duties as MP, Karpal had called for an investigation into the matter and action to be taken against the perpetrators in the event that investigations showed the allegations to be without basis and politically motivated.
According to Gobind, then Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamed had described the allegations as ridiculous and slanderous and said, “penyebar khabar angin, termasuk mengenai perletakan jawatan Menteri Kewangan ‘sepatutnya ditembak’” (those spreading rumours including of the resignation of the Finance Minister “ought to be shot”).
Then Attorney General Mohtar Abdullah had also classified the allegations as baseless and said that no action would be taken in the matter, Gobind added.
Gobind pointed out that despite this, Anwar was dismissed as Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister and thereafter charges of sexual misconduct and abuse of power were preferred against him.
“Mr Karpal has explained time and again, even in Parliament that owing to the events described above, he believed that Anwar Ibrahim was a victim of a political conspiracy and that Anwar Ibrahim was innocent of those accusations thrown against him,” Gobind’s statement said.
Gobind continued that it was his late father, who by raising the matter in Parliament in 1997, pinned the then PM and AG down to their declarations of innocence for Anwar Ibrahim against all the allegations levelled at him.
“This made them look like absolute fools when they later came out to support and pursue charges in respect of the same allegations they had earlier declared to be baseless against Anwar Ibrahim, shortly after his sacking as DPM,” Gobind said.
He added that by doing this, Karpal had “struck at the heart of the matter” for the question was raised later as to how a man declared innocent one day could become guilty the next, “what more only after a political storm with his master?”
Gobind explained that this had become the basis for a defence of “political conspiracy, bad faith and persecution against Anwar Ibrahim.”
Karpal went on to defend Anwar against charges of sodomy preferred against the later in 1999, for which Anwar was acquitted.
Gobind said that the acquittal served to prove that Karpal was right all along.
KUALA LUMPUR: Gobind Singh Deo, son of the late Karpal Singh, today lambasted Mohd Shafee Abdullah, lead prosecutor in Anwar Ibrahim’s recent sodomy trial, for suggesting that his father “threw the first stone” against Anwar.
Describing Shafee’s allegations as “utter rubbish” and “the lowest of low,” the Puchong MP invoked Hansard, the official parliamentary record of proceedings to set the record straight.
He pointed out that various allegations, including that of sexual misconduct, were first made against Anwar in 1997 and that in keeping with his duties as MP, Karpal had called for an investigation into the matter and action to be taken against the perpetrators in the event that investigations showed the allegations to be without basis and politically motivated.
According to Gobind, then Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamed had described the allegations as ridiculous and slanderous and said, “penyebar khabar angin, termasuk mengenai perletakan jawatan Menteri Kewangan ‘sepatutnya ditembak’” (those spreading rumours including of the resignation of the Finance Minister “ought to be shot”).
Then Attorney General Mohtar Abdullah had also classified the allegations as baseless and said that no action would be taken in the matter, Gobind added.
Gobind pointed out that despite this, Anwar was dismissed as Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister and thereafter charges of sexual misconduct and abuse of power were preferred against him.
“Mr Karpal has explained time and again, even in Parliament that owing to the events described above, he believed that Anwar Ibrahim was a victim of a political conspiracy and that Anwar Ibrahim was innocent of those accusations thrown against him,” Gobind’s statement said.
Gobind continued that it was his late father, who by raising the matter in Parliament in 1997, pinned the then PM and AG down to their declarations of innocence for Anwar Ibrahim against all the allegations levelled at him.
“This made them look like absolute fools when they later came out to support and pursue charges in respect of the same allegations they had earlier declared to be baseless against Anwar Ibrahim, shortly after his sacking as DPM,” Gobind said.
He added that by doing this, Karpal had “struck at the heart of the matter” for the question was raised later as to how a man declared innocent one day could become guilty the next, “what more only after a political storm with his master?”
Gobind explained that this had become the basis for a defence of “political conspiracy, bad faith and persecution against Anwar Ibrahim.”
Karpal went on to defend Anwar against charges of sodomy preferred against the later in 1999, for which Anwar was acquitted.
Gobind said that the acquittal served to prove that Karpal was right all along.
Apex court: Five years jail for Anwar 'not excessive'
The full written judgment convicting opposition
leader Anwar Ibrahim of sodomy with a prison sentence of five years was
today made available on the Federal Court's official website.
The 116-page judgment was written by Chief Justice Arifin Zakaria and is signed by him along with four other members of the bench in a unanimous decision.
The other judges were Court of Appeal President Justice Mohd Raus Sharif and Federal Court judges, Justices Suriyadi Halim Omar, Abdull Hamid Embong and Ramly Ali.
On Tuesday (left), the apex court had only initially issued a 56-page brief of the judgment when delivering its decision.
Justice Arifin in his full judgment said the five-year jail sentence meted onto the opposition leader was not excessive.
“Taking into consideration the seriousness of the offence and the fact that the appellant had taken advantage of his position as an employer of the young victim, the five-year sentence is not grossly excessive.
“We are of the view that if at all the Court of Appeal erred, it was more on the side of leniency,” he said.
On the cross-appeal by the prosecution to enhance the sentence, Justice Arifin said it was inadequate to warrant the apex court's intervention.
“We therefore dismiss both the appeals and the cross-appeal. The sentence imposed by the Court of Appeal is hereby affirmed,” he ruled.
Major points
Anwar was found guilty of commting the offence on his former aide Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan at a Kuala Lumpur condominium on Jan 26, 2008.
The major points of today's full written judgment are as follows:
The 116-page judgment was written by Chief Justice Arifin Zakaria and is signed by him along with four other members of the bench in a unanimous decision.
The other judges were Court of Appeal President Justice Mohd Raus Sharif and Federal Court judges, Justices Suriyadi Halim Omar, Abdull Hamid Embong and Ramly Ali.
On Tuesday (left), the apex court had only initially issued a 56-page brief of the judgment when delivering its decision.Justice Arifin in his full judgment said the five-year jail sentence meted onto the opposition leader was not excessive.
“Taking into consideration the seriousness of the offence and the fact that the appellant had taken advantage of his position as an employer of the young victim, the five-year sentence is not grossly excessive.
“We are of the view that if at all the Court of Appeal erred, it was more on the side of leniency,” he said.
On the cross-appeal by the prosecution to enhance the sentence, Justice Arifin said it was inadequate to warrant the apex court's intervention.
“We therefore dismiss both the appeals and the cross-appeal. The sentence imposed by the Court of Appeal is hereby affirmed,” he ruled.
Major points
Anwar was found guilty of commting the offence on his former aide Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan at a Kuala Lumpur condominium on Jan 26, 2008.
The major points of today's full written judgment are as follows:
-
Complainant Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan is a credible witness.
-
Investigating officer DSP Jude Blacious Pereira was transparent in
cutting open the plastic bag containing the Saiful's DNA samples as
retrieved by the Hospital Kuala Lumpur.
-
These DNA samples sent to the Chemistry Department on June 30, 2008, remained intact or undisturbed.
-
The DNA samples retrieved from Anwar Ibrahim's cell on July 17, 2008 were not illegally obtained.
-
The trial High Court judge applied the wrong standard of test in not
accepting DNA evidence by the local chemist following testimonies by the
defence's foreign experts.
-
There is nothing to discredit the evidence of the local chemist.
-
The Pusrawi Hospital doctor who first examined Saiful was not a credible
witness following his assertion that plastic was inserted into the
victim's anus.
-
The Court of Appeal applied the correct test in dismissing Anwar's
allegations of a political conspiracy following the opposition leader's
unsworn statement from the dock.
-
Comparing the samples retrieved from Saiful and that from Anwar's cell, 'Male Y' is identified as the opposition leader.
- Spine specialist Dr Thomas Hoogland's evidence that Anwar cannot perform such sexual acts is misconceived.
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