Comments from Reader NEM

It is strongly proven that the present governtment is a very good fabricator.They can fabricate anything under the sun as they like.Even my little son could justify that the present leaders are cowards and they are shitting bricks when they think of our heros in ISA.If they are true leaders they should face our heros face to face and lay out the problems faced decently with integrity. What else can they do if not to ban HINDRAF?Easy way out though. Banning HINDRAF is surely a plus point to the opposition.Well! Hail The Opposition.
Anyway as what been said by Guan Eng : WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE TOUGH GETS GOING.
I AM PROUD TO SAY THAT I AM A HINDRAF SUPPORTER AND WOULD GO ALL OUT TO FIGHT OUR WAY THRU WITH INTEGRITY .
HAIL HINDRAF!!!!!!

Hear Hundraf 's cry for freedom

(Malaysiakini) The Hindu Rights action Force (Hindraf) has been banned under the Societies Act 1966 as of Oct 15.

When making this announcement, Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar declared that, if left unchecked, Hindraf could pose a threat to public order, peace, security, and morality in Malaysia. When I read this in the Star, I could already hear the uproar of outrage exploding all over the Malaysian blogsphere.

That itself is interesting. With the expansive influence of the internet in Malaysia, the BN government can no longer monopolise the right to interpret public events, or manufacture synthetic truths to pass moral judgement on citizen-based social movements in the country.

In the hearts and minds of many Malaysians, the emergence of Hindraf prior to the March 8 general election this year has been one of those critical phenomena that turned an important page for Malaysian history.

The peaceful but massive street protests that responded to Hindraf’s call for action then signaled a spontaneous groundswell of anguish, resentment, and quiet anger among the Indians against decades of arrogant neglect by the government over many political social and economic woes plaguing the community.

The Hindraf leadership and their protesters were probably from the middle class within the Indian community. But they must have plucked a sensitive nerve of all Malaysian Indians, including all the far flung, widely scattered, and hitherto long-suffering silent Indian underclass.

Far bigger political clout

Finally, the Indians broke their silence and spoke out where it counted the most - at the ballot box. During the March 8 general election, they voted as a bloc overwhelmingly against the BN, helped drive the ruling coalition from five state governments, reduced MCA to a mosquito party, practically retired MIC supremo Samy Vellu, and ended the myth of power sharing among ethnic communities within the closed doors of the BN supreme council conference room.

In doing so, the Indians have proven that they have far bigger political clout out of proportion with their numerical percentages. They can become king-makers. Hindraf has proven itself as the most empowering social movement in the half-century history of multiracial and polyglot Malaysian society.

A smart government in an enlightened democracy would recognize the message of the Indian voters. Political leaders would try to win back their hearts and minds by engaging the Hindraf people in serious, inclusive, and meaningful dialogues. The Indian problem would indeed have to receive urgent and comprehensive attention.

Unfortunately for the Indian community, the BN government is not all that smart, and our democracy is not all that enlightened.

After the general election, the BN government has rewarded the Hindraf people with more oppressive responses. Five Hindraf leaders were detained under the much hated ISA. Now, it has been banned, with official insinuation as if Hindraf is no better than organised criminals, fakers of passports, or even the communists of old.

With this punch of the iron first, is Hindraf therefore destined to fizzle out like a burst balloon?

Hindraf national coordinator RS Thanenthiran did respond the day after the ban by saying, “The government can ban Hindraf but it can’t silence the majority of the Indian community who feel marginalized”. As he pointed out, the ban can only aggravate the situation.

I am sure that Hindraf leaders are now taking stock of the situation and counting their many options. Perhaps they are waiting for feedback from people like you and me.

Words of Martin Luther King

The Hindraf predicament suddenly reminds me a lot of Martin Luther King’s Civil Rights Movement. In his letter from Birmingham city Jail (printed in 1972), King wrote:

“We know through painful experience that freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed ... Oppressed people cannot remain oppressed forever. The urge for freedom will eventually come”.

King, like Hindraf leaders in recent months, had just been arrested and jailed for leading an “illegal” protest march against racism in America. But he knew he needed more than noble dreams and haughty rhetoric. He needed a strategy for action.

He explained how his non-violent campaign consisted of four steps: collection of the facts to determine whether injustices are alive, agitation, self-purification, and direct action. He wrote, “So we had no alternative except that of preparing for direct action whereby we would present our very bodies as a means of laying our case before the conscience of the local and national communities. We started workshops on non-violence an repeatedly asked ourselves this question, “Are you able to accept blows without retaliating? Are you able to endure the ordeals of jail”?

When queried why he advocated breaking some laws and obeying others, King had this to say; “The answer is found in the fact that there are two types of laws. There are just laws and there are unjust laws. I would be the first to advocate obeying just laws. One has not only a legal but moral responsibility to obey just laws. Conversely, one has a moral responsibility to disobey unjust laws. I would agree with St Augustine that ‘An unjust law is no law at all’.”

I suspect most Malaysian lawyers are influenced by legal positivism, which states that a law-legislated legally is a law, and must be obeyed. But I do agree with King and St Augustine - a law is not just a law; a law is either a good law or a bad law. Any piece of legislation may be legal, but it can also be highly immoral, and so must be changed peacefully at the earliest possible opportunity.

By now, we should know that, whatever the superstructure of the State may say about Hindraf, it is not a secret society out to ruin social stability and public security. It is a spontaneous movement of citizens trying to right socio-political wrongs through non-violent peaceful means. There is no denying that Hindraf does threaten the survival of the BN government. What’s wrong or illegal about that?

We should also know that the banning of Hindraf under the Societies Act of 1966 is an injustice that has made the Act into a bad law. It has become a law that denies the fundamental human rights to free association and free expressions, inalienable rights which are enshrined in our constitutions.

The Hindraf leaders may go to court and challenge their banning on constitutional ground. I don’t know. There may be a small later amendment to say that whatever decision a minister makes under this law cannot be challenged in a court of law.

It is good to see that the Hindraf leaders are now coolly calculating their odds and weighing their options. Their hot actions require cool heads.

They may end up adopting the philosophy of Martin Luther King, or they may not. They can also draw inspiration and courage from their ancient and rich Hindu traditions. There was Gandhi who could also provide them with some bright ideas.

Whatever they do from this point on, the worst choice is to get into an acrimonious factional fight over their next course of action. This would cripple their movement, as it did to the Socialist Front a few decades ago. They must guard against the infiltration of agent provocateurs into their rank and file to divide and rule them. This is a time that would indeed test their wisdom and courage to the limit.

A national problem

I see the Hindraf movement not merely as one involving Malaysian Indians only. The Indian problem is a national problem; it is your problem and my problem.

Once again, I would like to quote Martin Luther King. He wrote, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly affects us indirectly.”

In short, we Malaysians of all ethnic origin must do whatever we can to defend the Hindraf movement in whatever way we can. The least we can do is to pray for them.

We must take note that the central concept that drove King’s Civil Rights Movement is “freedom”. Although the word “freedom” has been made to sound like a dirty word in Malaysian mainstream discourse, it is an idea behind the Hindraf movement.

As I see it, Hindraf is a struggle of the Indian community to be free from poverty, neglect, marginalisation, and from many social ills that are the direct results of socio-economic backwardness. Above all, theirs is a struggle for freedom from political oppression and persecution by the multi-racial ruling class. It is this same cry for freedom that an increasing number of Malaysian can share these days.

We all badly need a reformation in our country.

Remand order rejected, activist to be freed soon

(Malaysiakini) Suaram activist Cheng Lee Whee who was

MCPX

detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) last night, will be released on police bail soon.

Nyam Kee Han, who is Suaram’s Johor co-ordinator, when contacted today said he was informed by Cheng’s lawyer that a magistrate this morning rejected a police remand for her to be detained for four more days.

The lawyer, said Nyam, argued on the grounds that 26-year-old Cheng has co-operated fully with the police since her detention.

He further added that the self-employed programmer is currently in the process of settling the police bail with her lawyer at the Johor Jaya police station, accompanied by supporters and Suaram members.

When contacted, Johor police chief Mokhtar Shariff stressed that Cheng was issued a remand order early this morning and had the right to hire a lawyer for her defence.

Cheng was detained under Section 28 of the ISA for ‘dissemination of false reports’ following a police report she made accusing the police of abuse of power in Thursday’s controversial demolition of a squatter colony in Johor.

According to lawyers, section 28 does not empower the police to detain a suspect without trial. The suspect must be brought to court within 24 hours, either to be charged or be further remanded to facilitate police investigations.

According to the section, "Any person who, by word of mouth or in writing or in any newspaper, periodical, book, circular or other printed publication or by any other means spreads false reports or makes false statements likely to cause public alarm, shall be guilty of an offence."

'Wrong perception of ISA'

Unlike other sections under the ISA that allow detention without trial, Mohktar stressed that Section 28 allows Cheng to face a due process of law. He added that Cheng had every right to to explain herself.

"People may have a wrong perception that the whole Act allows detention without trial, but Section 28 is the total opposite," he said when contacted today.

"We will issue a press release as soon as possible so people do not get the wrong impression of this section," said Mokhtar.

Law of the Jungle

By Daniel Chandranayagam

Many employers everywhere scrutinise their employees’ every move, and take them to task when a second or two of company time is under-utilised. Although this may not be practised by all employers, it’s fast becoming a trend.

Now, it has been reported that employees of two logging companies have sexually abused Penan womenfolk in Sarawak. The Bruno Manser Fonds (BMF) reported, “Penan women from the Middle Baram area of Sarawak are launching a cry of alarm to the international community over cases of sexual abuse by logging company workers in the East Malaysian state's rainforests.”

According to initial news reports, officials from both companies are unaware of these matters. So while some employers know their workers every move, others claim they do not know when their employees might have committed criminal acts.

I suppose it might be unfair for a ‘regular’ kind of employer to keep tabs on their workers, especially after working hours. And of course, no one is saying anyone is guilty of anything. But to mitigate against damage to their business reputations, surely corporations, especially those with workers in remote areas, should have a system to monitor the happenings at their satellite arms?

Interhill Logging and Samling were named in reports in relation to the allegations. Samling’s Cheryl Yong stated, “Such events are criminal and will not be tolerated because we do not condone any illegal act by employees... Any victim of criminal acts should lodge their complaints directly to the police.”

Interhill’s representative, identified as “Mr. Kiu”, admitted that so far they had no information on the matter, and that this could be because of the bad infrastructure in the interiors, which has caused infrequent communication between the camp and the headquarters.

Plausible.

But let’s face it. Some businesses are larger richer and more powerful than many nations. But unlike countries, businesses only ever send out their workers to gain revenue for them. So why shouldn’t they be held accountable?
It appears that media coverage has caused investigations into the allegations made, not only by Suhakam and the Sarawak police, but also by the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry. Its minister, Datuk Ng Yen Yen, said, “Companies cannot say that the behaviour of their workers is beyond them.”

Indeed. But if any culpability is found during these investigations, I wonder if any would be apportioned to the companies, and not just to the employees. Bar Council chairperson, Ambiga Sreenevasan, stated that companies could be called to act against employees found guilty of crimes, but Malaysia has no laws that provide for the companies themselves to be punished for employees’ crimes outside business hours and premises.

Unfair but true. While these workers were most likely placed there by the companies, the companies are not answerable to any law, and later could just replace offending workers (if any) with new ones, who may or may not perpetuate the alleged offences.

As many Malaysians push for greater accountability of their leaders, we shouldn’t forget corporate accountability either. And by this, I’m not just talking about responsibility to the shareholders, but also to their employees, their creditors and all stakeholders, which includes the environment.

The most recent on the Penans is a blockade staged against Interhill in Middle Baram, ostensibly to prevent the destruction of their last remaining rainforests.

Perhaps this is the only reason for the blockade.

Or just possibly (for I am known to be whimsical), it might be also to protect their women from any further indignities.

Daniel Chandranayagam
http://pottedplot.com/

Malaysia: Yet another blogger rebuked

By Daniel Chandranayagam

Deputy Chief Minister, Alfred Jabu Numpang, of the Malaysian state of Sarawak, has criticised blogger, Joseph Tawie for a posting on the latter’s blog. Freelance writer and blogger Tawie accused Sarawak state leaders of suppressing allegations of sexual abuse of Penan women in his blog, The Broken Shield.

A blog post urged the state authorities to probe the allegations of sexual abuse of Penan womenfolk, located in Sarawak’s Baram region. According to news reports, unidentified cabinet ministers present confirmed Jabu displeasure with Tawie. Jabu also had directed his anger at a journalist of a national newspaper.

Tawie’s posting, headlined ‘Penan rape cases: Let the truth prevails’, highlighted allegations that employees from timber companies, Samling and Interhill, had been abusing Penan women sexually. Allegedly, these employees have been committing the acts for almost a decade.

The Penan are a tribal community living deep in the forests of Northern Borneo. Aside from the sexual acts alleged against the logging company staff, the Penans are also upset that the forest they live in is being destroyed by logging, so much so that the tribe has staged a blockade against Interhill to stop them from getting into the forest (click here to read more).

Tawie said that the task force from the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry to look into the plight of the Penan schoolgirls as a result of rapes and abuse allegedly perpetrated by timber workers is timely.

Timely, because state leaders in particular (Chief Minister) Abdul Taib Mahmud, (Deputy Chief Minister) George Chan and (Deputy Chief Minister) Alfred Jabu have not only accused newspapers of deliberately publishing false news, but have also accused them as saboteurs. ‘Saboteurs’ is a very strong word indeed.

He said, “If there are some truth, then the truth will have an embarrassing effect on our (state) government leaders.”

Tawie’s blog is currently still up and running, although no word has been released on what action, if any, the authorities will take against him.

http://advocacy.globalvoicesonline.org/2008/10/17/malaysia-yet-another-blogger-rebuked/

Dr M wants Umno polls back to December

By Adib Zalkapli(themalaysianinsider)

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 18 — In yet another attempt to hasten Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s departure, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad today said the postponement of the Umno election to March next year will result in the party not having enough time to regain the people’s confidence.

“I agree with Tan Sri Muhyiddin (Yassin), there is no need for an additional three months, what can Abdullah do in three months? I don’t think he can do anything,” said Dr Mahathir.

“No need for delay, we need time to rehabilitate BN, we only have four years to do that, or else we are going to lose the next election,” he added.

On Thursday, Muhyiddin told reporters that the campaign period is too long and will drain resources.

“The campaign period is the longest in years and has never happened before. All this because we want to accommodate the so-called power transition plan,” he reportedly said.

Said Dr Mahathir today: “We need to go down and meet the people, but at the same time we are facing an economic crisis.”

On the suggestion by MCA Youth yesterday that a second deputy BN chairman be created for the party, Dr Mahathir said the idea must be studied carefully.

“BN is a multiracial coalition, if they entertain one racial group, other racial groups will be unhappy, if the Chinese support the coalition, but the Malays do not, BN will still be weak,” said Dr Mahathir.

“It must be studied carefully, whether it helps in getting the Chinese support or it will just erode the Malay support,” he added.

He said that the BN is a system that allows every group “to be represented fairly but not equally”.

“Let’s be more careful, that is why certain issues should not be discussed publicly, as it is no longer rational because people will be moved by emotion,” he added.

Similarly, he said, the idea to open up BN for direct membership should also be studied thoroughly.

Reassurance for all Malaysians on rights

• Groups hail remarks on upholding social contract, protecting rights of all races ©New Straits Times by Sheridan Mahavera, Eileen Ng and Shuhada Elis KUALA LUMPUR: It's a message of unity, peace and harmony. Non-governmental organisations and political parties, which have been engaged in months of sabre-rattling over race and religious issues, said this was the essence of the statement from the Conference of Rulers. As the rulers had spoken clearly on the social contract, NGOs and politicians from both sides of the divide said, the people should move forward. Historian Professor Tan Sri Khoo Kay Khim described the statement as a reminder to all Malaysians of the centrality of the Constitution and the Rukun Negara. The position of the Malays and Islam in the nine Malay states had always been recognised by the British, Khoo said, and when they joined the Federation of Malaya, this characteristic was carried over into the Constitution. Bar Council president Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan agreed that the statement reaffirmed the importance of the Federal Constitution and was a reminder of the guarantees accorded to all Malaysians. "It reminds citizens that the guarantees were a result of well-considered negotiations, resulting in the social contract which we as citizens must respect. It is a much needed message of unity, peace and harmony," said Ambiga. The council had in June hosted a forum on the social contract that was heavily criticised as being contemptuous of the accord, which has been described as laying the foundations of post-1957 Malaysia. "The Bar has never questioned the social contract and anything in the Constitution. We have discussed it and there are different views about it but the Bar has never questioned it and believes that it is entrenched in the Constitution," Ambiga said. For the Malay Solidarity Council, the statement was precisely what they have been campaigning for in light of what they see as an increasing tide of challenges to Malay special privileges. "Society has just gone overboard in arguing about the social contract and this statement is something that is needed to stop all these disputes," said council chairman Tan Sri Ismail Hussin. The council represents about 200 Malay NGOs which in May convened a special congress, which in turn sent a petition to the rulers asking that they put a stop to attempts to dispute Malay privileges. The rulers' statement was released on Thursday after the conference's 215th meeting. Among other things, it stated that the rulers hold the constitutional role to safeguard the special privileges, position, eminence and greatness of the Malay rulers, Islam, Malay as the national language, and the genuine interests of the other communities in Malaysia. "The rulers assuaged the anxieties of Malays concerning their special position but also the non-Malays by saying that their interests are in no danger of being eroded," said Parti Keadilan Rakyat information chief Tian Chua. Umno Youth chief Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said no community should assume that the statement referred to one of them specifically. Former MCA Youth chief Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said though the contract's aim was to create unity, it should not be taken to mean that different perspectives on it should be ignored. In Shah Alam, Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said Malaysians could continue to speak out on the execution of policies in regard to the social contract. "This (reminder) does not restrict or stop the people from speaking out and commenting in terms of its execution but it is best if the people can respect the culture and etiquette of one another," he said.

Indians given a Deepavali present by government, yet again

by Jaya

A week prior to Deepavali 2007, can you remember how the Indian community were greeted by their BN leaders? Their adored place of worship, the Padang Jawa Temple in Klang was cruelly demolished. Wonder if it is a decision that the previous Selangor MB regrets? Many Indians believe that it was ‘divine wrath and punishment’ that gave a trashing defeat to BN in the State of Selangor.

Now fast forward to 2008, this year the community got a wonderful present for their Deepavali festival. Our Government has banned and declared Hindraf illegal!!! None can say it better than F E Smith “There is more credit in being abused by fools than praised by rogues .”

One wonders if all this came about because the Big Boys were not happy that Indian families went to PMs open house in their orange Tee-Shirts. The delegation was led by a little 6 year old girl who handed over a greeting card and a teddy bear!!! By Gosh, by a stretch of any imagination, could the Malaysian population consider a little stuffed toy, as a threat to national security??

What is Hindraf then if it is not a surge of years of pent up frustrations of Malaysian Indians being marginalized in Education, in Government – the biggest employer in the country or even in business. Yet the world over, the Indian Diaspora economically does better than most other nationalities. So a question that Indians and others ask, how come in Malaysia, Indians are left behind???

Frankly do the Big Bosses realize that Hindraf is not a mere society that they can close down? Can you curb the pent up emotions of a people, generations who worked for this country and are now faced with difficulties. These simple people would have been happy to meet up with the PM and would have been his most ardent fan for life. Hey, I thought Governments are elected by the people, for the people and of the people, its hard to fathom, how come our leaders do not engage in dialogue? Yet, see how these simple Indian people, have been demonized?

Actually if the media have given an accurate report of the 27th September 2008, Candle light vigil, those big bullies in high places would have understood “the spirit of a people united”. That vigil was a true example of the Hindraf Spirit, organized for the release of the ISA detainees, most of whom are Malays, it was a call sent out before Raya, in hope that the Muslim brothers will get released prior to their festival Hari Raya. Many who led the Hindraf procession, and those who led the chants for Makkal Shakti and Hindraf Valage, were Chinese youth who came in full support the Indian cause. If it wasn’t the puasa month, for sure we would have seen many more of our Malay family there.

So then how can the spirit, the emotion, the soul, or the inner force, the oneness, the unity, the very essence of Malaysian Life be stilled, by a mere Government declaring it illegal?? Never and we loudly say never can the spirit of Bangsa Malaysia be snuffed out.

Now, like never before we Malaysians are bound together in one spirit, Malay, Chinese, Indian and others, have come together as one. You see it at the courts in solidarity for RPK, you see it on the blogs and websites, you see it at the vigils, we saw in the 8th March elections.

Yes my brothers and sisters, we are all bound together in one spirit. The spirit of unity cannot be declared illegal and cannot be banned. This time the wave of change is bigger than the Tsunami and it is sweeping our beautiful country. It’s a call for change, a call to wipe out all forms of racism that is being raised for political hegemony. It’s a call against corruption, scam and cheating of the Rakyat.

Let me jog your memory a bit to what our RPK said in one of the last few messages to us, before he got interned, albeit unfairly. I think briefly it meant that we Malaysians should give our lives to protect each other, so that not one drop of Malaysian blood is shed. We have to ensure that no one can divide us and protect this sprit of unity that binds us.

Maybe it indeed is a blessing, look back, last year’s Deepavali present resulted in March 8th Tsunami, five states landed into opposition hands and it was this refusal of the leaders to heed the voices of their own citizenry that gave them the defeat. This time one wonders what’s in store for the Big Boys in High Places!!

We the people of Malaysia are called together to ensure that we and the future generations, will live in peace, in harmony, entrusting our Country to the Good Governance of Honest Leaders called to be accountable by a Rakyat United.

The Spirit of Hindraf and Bangsa Malaysia will always live.

UMNO ELECTIONS(Chedet.com)

1. The whole country is watching the nomination of candidates for the UMNO Supreme Council. The decision of Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi not to defend his Presidency of the party is what has kindled the unprecedented interest in who will head and run UMNO. This is because until now it is expected that the President of UMNO will become the next Prime Minister of Malaysia. If the UMNO electorate fails to deliver a good and honest administrator, then the country would be in for another period of instability and economic regression. No Malaysian would want to see that. In desperation they might opt for the opposition at the next election. And that would not be any better. In fact it would be worse than the incompetent present incumbent.

2. For UMNO the next four years would be crucial. If whoever becomes the new President fails to revive the party, it would be the end of the road for this longest surviving fighter for national independence. If this were to happen then the incoming leadership of UMNO will go down in history as the betrayers of this once glorious and powerful political machine.

3. UMNO had adopted the democratic system apparently to ensure that betrayers of the party would be removed and replaced by better men. But clearly UMNO democracy has not always worked. Many have reached the top through false pretences. Once there they make use of their position of power to prevent democracy from safeguarding the party. By dishing out lucrative jobs and titles, by abusing the authority conferred on them, by threats of all kinds, these pretenders have been able to stop attempts at their removal, at least for quite some time.

4. The assumption of the self-serving leaders is that if they could control the division leaders through bribes and threats, their hold on the party would be ensured. Such was their stranglehold over the party that it seems the party was solidly behind them. They could do anything and they would be assured of loud approbation and support.

5. But their assumption was wrong. The division and branch leaders may kowtow to them but the rank and file and the non-member supporters proved to be recalcitrant. Unable to speak up or to criticize the leadership they decided to vote for the opposition.

6. Thus in the March 2008 Elections the Barisan Nasional Party and UMNO suffered heavy losses. The leadership refused to accept responsibility for this debacle, even claiming victory because they have enough seats to form the central Government.

7. In disgust the disaffected electorate delivered a stunning blow in a crucial bye-election, which saw the once powerful UMNO and Barisan Nasional totally cowed, scared even to display their party colours.

8. At last a few daring members of the UMNO Supreme Council decided that it was enough. The President must be forced to resign. And so Dato Abdullah after much delay announced his decision not to contest for President of UMNO and therefore his traditional right to be the Prime Minister of Malaysia.

9. That is the critical first stage. Now for the new President and Prime Minister. There are only two candidates. But to date only Dato Najib Tun Razak has received nomination for the post. Clearly he is the front runner. As expected the work of demonising him has begun. How he handles this would indicate the quality of his leadership.

10. In the meantime the nominees for the other posts are being named. If the Government of Najib is to be different from that of Abdullah, then Abdullah toadies must not be in.

11. So far it is unclear as to whether the UMNO divisions will back those opposed to Abdullah or his people. The lead taken by Muhyiddin Yassin seems to indicate that the critics of Abdullah are favoured. Rafidah, reputedly the most vocal critics of Abdullah seems still to get the support of Wanita. That could end the ambition of Azalina one of Abdullah's and Khairi's most ardent supporters, if Rafidah's promise to appoint Sharizat as Wanita Chief when she resigns is honoured.

12. Shafie Afdal, one of the most strident voices urging Abdullah to step down is likely to win enough nomination for Vice President. But the divisions seen to have forgotten the role played by Rais Yatim, who as Minister who was not afraid to air his views on Abdullah mismanagement.

13. Important though the nomination by the divisions in qualifying a candidate to contest for positions in the UMNO Supreme Council; they do not have the final say. That lies with the delegates attending the AGM.

14. In 1987 when Tengku Razaleigh contested for Presidency against me, I had more than three-fourth for the divisions nomination. But I only won by 43 votes cast by the 2500 delegates from the divisions. Obviously the delegates to the AGM did not vote according to the decisions by the divisions.

15. It behoves those contesting not to be too confident they would win simply because they have received the highest number of nominations by the division. Lots of things can happen when the AGM is held in Kuala Lumpur. I will not be surprised to see a lot of money flow, and a lot of minds changed.

16. In the 1987 elections there was a break for Friday prayers during the voting. It is believed that many delegates were approached during this break and persuaded by one means or another to ignore the decisions of their divisions and to vote for someone else.

17. For this reason there should not be any interval in the voting. If necessary it should not be held on Friday. It is however important that the voting be on the first day of the assembly.

18. As I said the country is watching this UMNO Elections with bated breath. If the UMNO divisions and delegates allow their greed to overcome their better judgement then it will be the last time they would be the king-makers in Malaysia.

19. I am reminded of the greed of a kampong Malay who used to collect "buah keranji" in the forest to sell to the Thais. It was tedious work, as the trees were tall and there were plenty of ants.

20. Impatient with the difficulties he encountered, the "keranji" collector chopped down the tree. And that was the last time he made money from collecting "keranji".

21. Perhaps the English educated prefer the goose that laid the golden egg.

22. Whichever, the lesson to be learnt is the same. Sell your vote today and that will be the end of your UMNO politics.

Isu lompat parti :Minggu pertama sidang Parlimen berlalu sepi

(Agendadaily)

Mereka yang berminat dengan isu pembangkang nak tawan Putrajaya menerusi lompat parti Ahli Parlimen Barisan Nasional mungkin akan dapat ‘ feel ‘ suasana semasa jika berada di Parlimen sepanjang minggu lalu.

Pada waktu ada yang merasakan tentunya timbul excitement bila Dewan Rakyat mula bersidang balik pada Isnin 13 Oktober suasananya hingga ke hari Khamis bila sidang ditangguhkan untuk sambung ke minggu depan boleh kata biasa-biasa saja.

Ini mengenangkan kehangatan cerita Penasihat PKR Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim mendesak Perdana Menteri supaya adakan sidang tergempar Parlimen kerana pembangkang macam dah tak sempat-sempat nak buat usul tidak percaya terhadap kerajaan atas dakwaan ‘ sudah ada jumlahnya ‘ Ahli Parlimen Barisan Nasional yang nak melompat.

Malah sebilangan pemerhati yang berkunjung ke Parlimen dan para wartawan yang membuat liputan hairan melihat senario relaks dan tak wujud keadaan resah gelisah di kalangan para Ahli Parlimen BN serta tanda-tanda red alert macam kerajaan nak terbalik bila-bila masa saja disambar oleh pembangkang.

Lebih menarik dari tinjauan Agendadaily isu lompat parti ini semacam tidak diambil peduli dan tidak diperbualkan sangat oleh kalangan ahli parlimen baik BN maupun pembangkang.

“Hairan juga tengok isu yang sebelum 16 September dulu macam nak meletup dunia punya riuh dah sejuk macam tak ada apa-apa,”kata seorang aktivis politik yang dua tiga kali melawat parlimen untuk melihat suasananya.

Katanya mungkin mereka yang di luar sana menduga macam-macam tetapi suasana di parlimen nyata adalah sebaliknya.

Hakikatnya kalau nak tahu isu itu tengah mengelegak atau tidak suasana di Parlimen dimana semua Ahli Parlimen berkumpul dan bersidang adalah penentu suhunya.



Apakah gambar ‘ penghulu’ Parlimen yakni Menteri Di Jabatan Perdana Menteri Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz boleh duduk bersembang dan bergelak ketawa dengan Anwar yang juga Ketua Pembangkang sambil kena teh tarik di ruang rehat para Ahli Parlimen petang Khamis ini dapat memberi indikasi kepada senario itu.

Turut sama menyertai mereka ialah ahli Majlis Tertinggi UMNO yang bekas Ketua Menteri Melaka Tan Sri Rahim Thamby Chik yang datang melawat beberapa rakan di Parlimen petang itu.

Lain-lain yang ada di situ ialah Ahli Parlimen PKR Machang Saifuddin Nasution dan Ahli Parlimen PKR Subang N Sivarasah dan Ahli Parlimen Gombak Azmin Ali- 17/10/2008

Perlantikan Zaki Azmi : Pelengkap kehanaman Institusi Kehakiman Negara

(Chegubard)
Penghakiman Mahkamah Khas yang ditubuhkan untuk mendengar kes membabitkan kerabat diraja yang telah membenarkan saman sebuah institusi kewangan ke atas DYMM SPB Yang Di Pertuan Besar Negeri Sembilan merupakan penghakiman terakhir bagi Ketua Hakim Negara Tun Abdul Hamid Mohamad yang akan bersara hujung bulan ini.

Institusi kehakiman negara sudah lama dikritik hebat, bermula dengan krisis kehakiman tahun 1988 dan selepas itu penghormatan dalam dan luar negara terhadap institusi kehakiman negara kian merudum. Sehinggalah perlantikan Ketua Hakim yang terakhir (Tun Abdul Hamid Mohamad) juga dipertikaikan kerana penglibatan serius beliau dalam krisis kehakiman 1988.

Namun kebelakangan ini seperti nampak ada cahaya untuk usaha mengembalikan maruah institusi kehakiman negara. 'Pampasan' kepada Bekas Ketua Hakim yang dipecat ketika Krisis Kehakiman 1988 walaupun belum cukup sedikit memberikan harapan.

Namun sinar 'kabur' itu terus padam apabila mendengar desas-desus calon Ketua Hakim yang baru iaitu seorang yang terkait rapat dengan parti politik umno selain dari cerita porpular kontroversi rumah tangganya.

integriti Institusi Kehakiman Negarasudah tercalar teruk ekoran senarai lantikan hakim yang diumum September 2007.

dalam senarai lantikan terbaru itu, melibatkan Peguam terkemuka, Tan Sri Zaki Azmi menjadi orang pertama yang dilantik terus sebagai hakim Mahkamah Persekutuan, dan tidak mengikuti urutan kebiasaannya di mana seseorang itu terlebih dahulu dilantik menjadi hakim Mahkamah Tinggi dan Mahkamah Rayuan.

Perlantikan beliau diragui kerana sejauh mana beliau mampu menjamin kebebasan bertindak dalam melaksanakan hukum. Ini kerana, Zaki menduduki jawatan tersebut tanpa dilantik sebagai hakim Mahkamah Tinggi dan Mahkamah Rayuan, satu proses biasa dalam kenaikan pangkat hakim di negara ini.

Beliau mempunyai rekod 'yang masih segar' terlibat dengan perbagai syarikat korporat, firma guaman, parti politik malah juga masih segar dalam melakukan kesalahan secara sedar melanggar undang undang dalam perkahwinan beliau.

Peguam berusia 62 tahun itu, yang mempunyai kaitan rapat dengan Umno - pernah menjadi penasihat undang-undang parti itu - menerima watikah perlantikannya daripada Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin di Istana Negara pagi ini.

Zaki, anak kepada Tun Azmi Mohamed yang menjadi Ketua Hakim Negara dari 1966 hingga 1974, merupakan perunding kepada sebuah firma perundangan terkenal sejak September lalu.

Beliau juga pernah dilantik menganggotai Suruhanjaya Diraja Penambahbaikan Perjalanan dan Pengurusan Polis pada 2004. Zaki juga merupakan Penasihat Suruhanjaya Komunikasi dan Multimedia Malaysia serta Majlis Sukan Negara.

Zaki juga pernah menjadi pengerusi jawatankuasa disiplin Umno, setiausaha jawatankuasa pemilihan Umno dan timbalan pengerusi lembaga rayuan disiplin Umno.

Kontroversi perceraian

Bagaimanapun, beliau melepaskan jawatan tersebut pada 2005 ekoran tercetusnya kontroversi berhubung perceraiannya dengan isterinya keduanya yang berusia 30-an.

Zaki mengahwini Nor Hayati Yahaya, 32, pada bulan Mei 2005 dan mereka berpisah selepas tiga bulan mendirikan rumahtangga.

Pasangan tersebut dikahwinkan oleh seorang kadi dari Thailand di Perlis dan kedua-duanya bersetuju untuk membakar sijil asal perkahwinan mereka bagi menyembunyikan perkara itu daripada pengetahuan isteri pertamanya.

Mereka juga mencapai persetujuan sebelum perkahwinan itu bahawa jika hubungan mereka bermasalah, mereka bersetuju untuk berpisah.

Sejak itu, Zaki mendakwa beliau menerima pelbagai ugutan dari Nor Hayati, who, termasuk dakwaan meminta RM10 juta daripadanya.

Nor Hayati juga didakwa mendesaknya supaya mendaftarkan perkahwinan mereka, jika tidak, dia didakwa mengugut untuk mencemarkan reputasi Zaki.

berikut ialah profail beliau khususnya penglibatan dengan korporat dan UMNO.

Hampir kesemua penglibatan beliau tersebut 'masih segar' dan boleh menimbulkan keraguan dalam menjamin pelaksanaan keadilan. Maka sudah tentu rakyat punya alasan kukuh untuk khuatir mengenai kredibeliti dan intrigriti badan kehakiman negara.

Abdullah: Umno is not a bully

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has dismissed suggestions that Umno has over-dominated the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition at the expense of other component parties.

MCPX

Opening the 55th MCA annual general meeting in Kuala Lumpur today, Abdullah - who is also BN chairperson - said the issue of Umno being a “bully” has never arisen.

“Umno is not a ‘bully’ party, there is no such thing as bully, we are all friends,” Abdullah said in reply to a point raised by outgoing MCA president Ong Ka Ting in a farewell speech earlier.

“If that is our way (being a bully), many component parties would have left BN by now,” stressed the premier. Ong, seated on stage, smiled at Abdullah’s apparent rebuttal of his earlier remark.

In a rather hard hitting speech earlier, Ong said questions have been raised over BN’s power-sharing concept as Umno is seen as over-dominating the other component parties.

Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak was among the VIPs present this morning, alongside leaders of other BN component parties.

A total of 2,378 MCA delegates were present, or 99.04 percent of attendance.

‘Oppositions out to create hatred’

Elaborating later, Abdullah blamed the opposition for stirring up the issue and claimed parties such as the DAP wanted to see the split of the MCA or Gerakan.

“Their (the opposition) work is to create hatred among BN component parties.

“Do you think Ka Ting allows himself to be bullied? You think (MIC president S) Samy (Vellu) can be bullied? You think (Gerakan president Dr Koh) Tsu Koon wants to be bullied?

“I want to say that Ka Ting is not a weak leader, he is a strong and assertive leader,” explained the premier, in referring to the MCA chief who is stepping down after five years as president.

In his 30-minute speech, Abdullah also reminded the component parties that it is essential to keep up the strength of the ruling coalition.

BN suffered its worst ever electoral outing in the last general election in March when it lost its two-thirds majority in Parliament to the Anwar Ibrahim-led Pakatan Rakyat opposition alliance.

The Chinese and Indian communities have clearly deserted BN in the poll, with perception among Chinese voters who think the MCA is being subservient to Umno, the largest ruling party.

The MCA Youth which met yesterday has called for the creation of a second BN deputy chairperson post to be held by the party. The post is current held by Najib.

BN leaders admit perception exists

Commenting on Abdullah and Ong’s statements after the opening, several leaders of BN component parties acknowledged that the ‘Umno bully’ perception indeed exists among the people.

PPP president M Kayveas described the perception as “very widespread” among the people.

“The prime minister has said that it’s not true that the component parties were bullied but the perception is that Umno controls everything or the Umno’s voice seems to be louder.

“Sometimes when other component parties leaders said certain thing, you will find Umno Youth giving (us) warning,” said Kayveas who was also present at the MCA event today.

Asked on the proposal for a second BN deputy chief's post, the PPP president suggested a direct election to be held for the top posts at the BN supreme council instead.

He said direct election is a better way to ensure that other BN parties also have a stake in the selection of the top BN leadership.

Gerakan’s Koh also acknowledged the perception but attributed it to the statements and actions of lower ranking BN component parties leaders, which let the opposition to take advantage of the situation.

He said BN top leaders like Abdullah and Najib were open-minded and always prepared to hear the views from the component parties.

On the second BN deputy chief's post, Koh said the BN can always discuss the matter in depth.

... but MCA says Umno dominates BN

Outgoing MCA president Ong Ka Ting said the public perceives that Umno is the dominant member of Barisan Nasional and that the coalition’s ‘power sharing’ concept was not effective.

MCPX

“Now, there is a situation which is not right and needs to be rectified. A lot of people have the perception that the BN power sharing was not effective and not practiced according to its original principles.

“Umno is seen as a party which is far more dominant than other component parties,” said Ong, adding that BN leaders must rectify the situation and allow component parties to participate in making important decisions.

“It shouldn’t look like as though Umno (is the sole) decider in important policies while other parties are (merely) asked to defend (the policies) to uphold the BN spirit.

“The power sharing slogan is often used and (but) it is deemed lip service,” he added.

Ong said this in his policy speech at the 55th MCA annual general assembly which was attended by Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and his deputy Najib Abdul Razak.

‘Racial politics disgust voters’

Ong also outlined seven reasons why the party was almost decimated during the March 8 general election. Among them were the government’s failure to stem corruption, rising crime and inflation.

However his most hard hitting comments were on the negative vibes on race relations when he said that voters were turned off by racial politicking and arrogance shown by certain BN leaders.

“They (voters) are disgusted and angry by some BN politicians who are ‘arrogant’ and feel uneasy when (they hear) statements and speeches with racial undertones or threats on other races.

“There are also politicians who appear to have amassed a lot of wealth not long after holding posts in a party or after they become local government councillors,” he said.

Another reason outlined by Ong was that voters were unhappy with how religious issues are being handled by the authorities, which gave the impression that religious freedom does not exist.

He cited the example of how complications occur when a marriage between a non-Muslim and a Muslim ends in divorce prompting tussles over custodial rights, religion of children and the division of property.

“When such matters are referred to the authorities, the outcome seems that the issue cannot be handled in a way which reflects religious freedom,” said Ong, to loud applause from the gallery.

He suggested to the premier and his deputy to amend the laws, and even possibly the Federal Constitution, to resolve such problems “once and for all”.

Remove equity requirements

Ong also urged the government to review weaknesses in the implementation of economic policies in other to liberalise the economy and allow Malaysia to become more competitive.

He suggested that the government should immediately stop issuance of government contracts through direct negotiation to companies with no track record.

“Economic policies should also be liberalised further and equity requirements which limits development should be revoked to allow Malaysian companies to become more competitive,” he added.

While no specific examples given, Ong could be referring to the requirement for foreign companies to fulfil the 30 percent bumiputera rule.

Ong’s seventh and final reason for BN’s loss in popularity was the government’s lack of development and funding for Chinese and Tamil schools.

'Arrest Khairy under ISA'

A MCA Youth delegate today called on the authorities to detain Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin under the Internal Security Act (ISA) for making racist remarks.

MCPX

He also wanted the security law to be invoked against suspended Umno Penang leader Ahmad Ismail who courted controversy recently by describing the Chinese in Malaysia as squatters.

Perak delegate Ting Tai Fook (right) made the call during the debates at the MCA Youth annual general meeting held at the party headquarters in Kuala Lumpur.

Khairy, who was one of the VIPs present at the MCA Youth meet this morning, has however left shortly after the opening before the debates commenced.

Ting took Khairy, who is also the son-in-law of Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, to task over his remarks concerning the ratio of the bumiputera and non-bumiputera quota on scholarships.

He said such remarks were not only condoned by the Umno leadership but also paved the way for Ahmad to make similar offensive remarks.

At this juncture, Ting said the ISA should not be used against civilians as seen in a crackdown last month.

“If we want to use ISA, let’s use ISA against these few people first [...] I also believe Khairy, this irresponsible leader will be defeated badly in the coming Umno Youth chief elections,” he said to applause from the delegates.

The Perak MCA Youth delegate stressed that the ethnic Chinese were not second-class citizens or the servants in this country.

Ting also hit out at Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim and accused him of being a liar for consistently claiming that he has the numbers to form government.

Resolution targets Khairy, Ahmad

Meanwhile, a majority of the MCA Youth delegates also echoed the dissatisfaction concerning the remarks made by Khairy and Ahmad.

Replying to Ting in the winding-up later, MCA Youth legal bureau chief Gan Ping Sieu said the wing is against the use of ISA against any civilian.

Apart from coming under heavy fire during the debates, one of the resolutions adopted at the meeting was also made in reference to Khairy and Ahmad. The resolution condemned several “narrow-minded leaders.”

“Their action will jeopardise the racial ties in this multiracial country which is formed based on different ethnicity, cultures and religions.

“Therefore, MCA Youth urges the relevant quarters to take immediate action to avoid these extremists from affecting the harmony in the country,” read the resolution.

Although the resolution did not name Khairy and Ahmad directly, it however stated that the reason for this resolution was due to the duo’s recent statements.

“Khairy made a statement in Parliament that the non-bumiputeras have taken away the bumiputeras’ privileges and their quota for the (government’s) JPA scholarship. His statement is against the cabinet decision.

“Ahmad also made a statement filled with racist elements to the extent that it caused unhappiness in the society. Therefore, serious action should be taken against these racist leaders,” read the document.

Other than this, the other resolutions which were passed included calling on the government to review the ISA and Printing Presses and Publications Act 1948 to make it relevant with the current times.

The Youth wing also expressed support for the government’s move to set up the Malaysian Commission of Anti-Corruption, as well as a special complaints commission on the reforms of the police force and judicial appointment commission.

Election results

In another development, the MCA Youth election results announced at 7pm revealed that those seen to be aligned to the new Youth chief Dr Wee Ka Siong had made a near clean sweep.

Except for the newly-elected deputy secretary-general Loh Chew June, the rest were those whose names had appeared on the cai dan (list of preferred candidates) that was widely circulated today.

As expected, Perak MCA Youth chief Dr Mah Han Soon won the No 2 post. He garnered 1,152 votes to beat his opponent Song Kee Chai, who polled 394 votes.

Wee, who was the wing’s secretary-general, won the top post uncontested on Monday.

Met by reporters later, Loh thanked the delegates for their support despite him not being on the cai dan. He said this had spurred him to work harder in order to get support from the delegates.

Those who were elected into the wing’s top posts include vice-chairpersons Yong Chen Leong, Yoo Wei How, Dr Chin Tung Leong and Yit Lee Kok. The new secretary-general is Chai Kim Seng.

Johor activist arrested under ISA

(Breaking News)

A 26-year-old activist has been arrested under the Internal Security Act (ISA) tonight following a report she made accusing the police of abuse of power in yesterday’s controversial eviction of a squatter colony in Johor. MCPX Cheng Lee Whee, a self-employed programmer who is a volunteer for human rights group Suaram, lodged the police report at the Permas Jaya police station in Johor Bharu at about 3pm yesterday. The report was made in response to the forced eviction of squatters in Kampung Baru Plentong Tengah - a predominantly Malay village akin to Kuala Lumpur’s Kampung Baru - and the arrest of 27 individuals for attempting to stop the demolition of the settlement. Cheng was summoned by inspector Azman Mustafa to the state police headquarters in Seri Alam at around 8pm so that her statement could be taken relating to her police report. Four of her friends accompanied her to the police station, among them were Suaram Johor Bahru coordinator Nyam Kee Han, Parti Socialis Malaysia central committee member Choo Shinn Chei and Suaram volunteer See Siew Min. The three were arrested yesterday at the forced eviction. At around 10.45pm, after Cheng had her statement recorded by the police, she was informed by Criminal Investigation Department chief DSP Mohd Nor Rasid that she had been arrested under section 28 of the ISA for "spreading false information". Section 28 of the ISA involves the dissemination of false reports. According to the section, "Any person who, by word of mouth or in writing or in any newspaper, periodical, book, circular or other printed publication or by any other means spreads false reports or makes false statements likely to cause public alarm, shall be guilty of an offence." According to lawyers, section 28 does not empower the police to detain a suspect without trial. The suspect must be brought to court within 24 hours either to be charged or be further remanded to facilitate police investigation. ‘Police chief confirmed ISA arrest’ Cheng was later escorted to the Pasir Gudang police station where she is expected to be remanded tomorrow for further investigation. DAP state assemblymen for Skudai, Dr Boo Cheng Hau, told Malaysiakini that he had spoken to Johor police chief Mokhtar Shariff as well as Seri Alam OCPD Supt Roslan Zainuddin by phone and both officers confirmed that Cheng had been held under ISA. He called on the police to either charge Cheng or free her as soon as possible. Attempts by Malaysiakini to contact Mokhtar and Roslan were unsuccessful. Last year, the ISA was invoked in Johor against five individuals for allegedly spreading rumours through SMSes about racial clashes.

Letter from a chinese supporter-HINDRAF

Hindraf and the Polish Solidarity Movement
A lesson from the Solidarity movement

OCT 16 — Although I have always subscribed to the belief that a broader movement representing the poorer sections of the people regardless of race is better than just fighting for the cause of a single race, I have always sympathised with Hindraf and its objective of calling attention to the marginalisation of Indians in the country.

We must understand why Hindraf appeals to so many of our Indian brothers. The Indians, without doubt, are one of the most neglected groups and with no effective representation in the government — the MIC and multiracial parties such as PPP and non-racial parties like Gerakan have failed in their roles to effectively represent the interest of the poorer sections of Malaysians.

Frustration, discontent and anger among the Indians led to the sudden rise of this movement which snowballed into a force that has, in no small part, contributed to the dismaying performance of the BN parties in the last general election.

There is a real need for the government to analyse and address the reasons why Hindraf was able to become such a potent force within such a short time, and take corrective steps to tackle the problems facing the poorer sections of this country.

I was therefore shocked to learn that the government has, instead of engaging Hindraf to learn about the woes of the people, taken a step backwards to ban Hindraf.

Remember the Solidarity movement in Poland? Solidarity was formed in 1980 by Lech Walesa as a trade union movement in Poland, which was under communist rule at the time. It tapped into the disaffection of the people against the communist regime, and it quickly grew into a mass movement spreading to the whole of Poland.

The Polish Communists, as communists elsewhere would do, imposed martial law in 1981 and banned the movement. However, instead of stifling the movement, the legacy of the movement lived on and became an even bigger force, until in 1986, the Polish government had no choice but to lift the ban, and negotiated with the leaders of Solidarity in a series of roundtable talks. The rest is history.

Elections were promised and finally held, and Walesa was elected President of Poland in 1990.

The government can ban Hindraf, but there is no way to ban the ideas and legacy of the movement. A better way is to actually release all Hindraf leaders and engage them in talks to find out ways to overcome the feeling of marginalisation of Malaysian Indians.

I would advocate that it goes even a step further. Engage those NGOs that represent the poorer section of all Malaysians, and find a solution to help the poor of all races.

Fifty-one years after independence, this is the right time to stop race-based affirmative policies, and instead tailor all help based on social strata and need.

Give the tongkat to those who really cannot walk; do not give the tongkat indiscriminately to those who not only can walk, but can run and jump. That is what the NEP is doing, so far skewed from its original purpose of eradicating poverty irrespective of ethnic groups.
Engagement and not suppression will be the key to a civil society. 

By Dr Hsu Dar Ren

APPEALING TO ALL PEACE LOVING; ON HUMANITARIAN GROUNDS

PLEASE SIGN THE PETITION AT THE LINK PROVIDED BELOW TO SAVE HELPLESS CHILDREN, INNOCENT WOMEN AND MEN FROM INDISCRIMINATE AND INHUMAN RANDOM BOMBING BY THE GOVERNMENT OF SRI LANKA ARMED FORCES UNDER THE CLOAK OF FIGHTING TERRORISM
 
 http://www.petitiononline.com/Sing01/petition.html
 
  PLEASE TREAT APPEAL URGENTLY 

  SIVAGAMIDEVI SOMASANM

  0137008007

TIME FOR ALL COMPONENT PARTIES WITHIN BARISAN TO SPEAK UP.

PRESS STATEMENT 17/10/08

RE : TIME FOR ALL COMPONENT PARTIES WITHIN BARISAN TO SPEAK UP.

HINDRAF calls upon all component parties within Barisan to speak up and make their stand clear on the issue of HINDRAF ban and the real problems facing the ethnic Indian community. 51 years has passed since independence and the ruling UMNO led Government has neglected and denied the ethnic Indians their basic rights and has oppressed suppressed and marginalized them so much so they remain a permanently colonized community. HINDRAF took the bold step to highlight these issues and is paying a heavy price and the ban is a desperate attempt to silence legitimate voice of democracy.

HINDRAF urges component parties within BN to come out of their cocoon and speak up the truth on the real situation facing the Indians and the impact of the UMNO repression on HINDRAF which is causing great uneasiness amongst the people. UMNO can’t go on forever silencing all legitimate voice of democracy in the unfounded and malicious allegation of National Security and against public order.

Barisan component parties have a moral duty to speak up the truth in the larger National interest and to protect and uphold the Rule of Law. The people who voted in the multi racial BN Government are losing their patience and confidence on the component parties which would eventually lead them into oblivion.

It is time for the component parties to come together and voice out the ground reality and rebuke UMNO for its arrogance and bully attitude against HINDRAF.

P.Waytha Moorthy

CHAIRMAN

HINDRAF

CPPS' Statement on Banning of HINDRAF

The Centre for Public Policy Studies (CPPS) is disappointed with the decision taken by the Home Minister, Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar to declare the Hindu Rights Action Force (HINDRAF) an illegal organisation. This move by the Ministry of Home Affairs is an infringement on the basic human right to expression and contradicts the Prime Minister's previous commitment to opening up the democratic space and allowing more open discussion in the country.
This decision is telling of the dismal state of civil liberties in Malaysia, and sends these signals to the domestic and international community. The CPPS finds ludicrous that HINDRAF, in trying to voice out very legitimate grievances of the consistent socio-economic marginalisation of the Indian community, has been labelled as a threat to "public order, peace, security and morality" (The Star, Thursday 16 October 2008).
According to the Minister, HINDRAF would also pose a threat to the prevailing racial harmony enjoyed in Malaysia presently. This spells caution that any interest group speaking on behalf of the economic marginalisation of their particular community would be considered as a threat. Instead of banning HINDRAF, the Government should have called for an open, rational discussion in order to ascertain the problems and issues raised, and in seeking constructive solutions to overcome them.
This move may instead fuel further resentment by minority ethnic groups who are legitimately raising concerns of their particular interests. Discussion and dialogue on grievances or perceived injustices should be encouraged, not stifled.
Suppressing dissent under the guise of national peace and security is in fact counterproductive to fostering true national unity amongst the citizens of the country. Genuine national unity begins by identifying real problems and struggles being faced by all interest groups in the country. The CPPS is also concerned that the government is planning on identifying specific members of HINDRAF or anyone associated with the group.
The CPPS urges the government to reconsider its ban on HINDRAF and respond to grievances of various ethnic groups by engaging in further discussion and working towards reaching mutually beneficial solutions. This draconian method of suppression is not sustainable in the long run. It is hoped that this move by the Ministry is not the beginning of a more extensive clampdown on civil society in Malaysia.
If Malaysia truly desires to become a democratic country of developed nation status, it must not suppress opinions of any interest groups, much less those who are already downtrodden upon and at wit's end.

Tan Sri Ramon V. Navaratnam,
Chairman

Tricia Yeoh,
Director Centre for Public Policy Studies
Kuala Lumpur 16th October 2008
For more enquiries, please contact: The Centre for Public Policy Studies; website: www.cpps.org.my;email: cpps@cpps.org.my
Tel: +603-20932820/20934209/20932630;Fax: +603-20933078

Pas says Umno should heed Rulers' warning

By Adib Zalkapli

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 - Opposition parties Pas and PKR said today the reminder issued by the Conference of Malay Rulers yesterday is a warning to Umno not to incite racial hatred.

"I believe it was intended for the race based political parties and also media like Utusan Malaysia, which has been promoting racial hatred, through their reports and even short stories," said Pas vice president, Datuk Husam Musa.

A short story published by Utusan Malaysia last week has been criticised as incitement and a thinly-veiled attack on Seputeh MP Teresa Kok.

Husam, who is known to be a protege of Pas spiritual leader Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat, said that Umno should not misinterpret the Rulers' reminder and exploit it for its own political gain.

"Umno should get the message from the Rulers not to cause racial tension, and as the ruling party it is in the best position to do so," he told The Malaysian Insider.

He added the opposition coalition, Pakatan Rakyat, has agreed to defend the Federal Constitution, specifically on the Malay language and the special position of the Malays and Bumiputeras.

"Pakatan Rakyat is a multi racial coalition, we always want to maintain racial harmony. There are Malay, Chinese and Indian members in DAP and in PKR," he added.

PKR information chief, Tian Chua also expressed a similar view, adding that it was a fair statement.

"It is a reminder not to politicise the issue, no political force can claim to be defending the rights of any race," said the Batu MP.

"In a way this is also a warning to Umno that this issue is none of your business. It is the Monarchy that is supposed to look after the Malay rights," said Tian.

The Conference of Malay Rulers yesterday issued a rare press statement urging everyone not to question the provisions in the Federal Constitution relating the special position of the Malays.

"It is not proper to dispute and question this Social Contract and more so to subject it to a review or change because it is the primary basis of the formation of Malaysia

"Therefore, it is appropriate for the Malay Rulers to remind that there should never be any attempt ever to test and challenge issues related to the Social Contract," said the statement.

Kit Siang wants Parliament to debate Zaki's appointment

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 – DAP parliamentary leader Lim Kit Siang has urged his fellow colleagues in the Opposition coalition to invoke Article 127 of the Federal Constitution to debate in Parliament the appointment of Tan Sri Zaki Azmi as Chief Justice.

Such a substantive motion has never been presented in Parliament before. In order to do so, he needs the support of 55 Members of Parliament, or just a quarter of the 222 lawmakers.

"Is Zaki capable of providing the necessary judicial leadership to ensure that Malaysia can rise above the past two decades of judicial darkness, plunging from one judicial scandal and crisis of confidence to another, and which reduced the Malaysian judiciary from its previous high international standing into a laughing stock for lack of independence, impartiality and integrity of the judiciary?" he queried.

The veteran leader called Zaki's appointment "the last nail in the coffin of Abdullah's pledge of judicial reform" in a press statement today.

Lim said that Datuk Seri Abdullah had reaffirmed his promise to deliver judicial reforms before his retirement as prime minister in March 2009, which includes the appointment of the top judge.

"The Prime Minister has shown utter disregard and contempt for the widespread objections of the legal community and civil society to the appointment of the first Umno Chief Justice in the 51-year history of the nation," he said.

The Ipoh Timur MP has been a vocal critic against Zaki's appointment to the Federal Court, as the latter was for many years the legal counsel for Umno and had also served on the party's Disciplinary Committee.

Lim had even raised the matter in the Dewan Rakyat last Wednesday before the appointment was confirmed yesterday evening. He had proposed High Court judge Hishammuddin Yunus, claiming that the latter's promotion in place of Zaki, would be "a credit to Malaysia".

Umno Youth welcomes Rulers' defence of social contract

©Bernama KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 (Bernama) -- Umno Youth has described a statement from the Conference of Rulers in defence of the social contract, as a show of love and concern of the Malay Rulers for the people. It also reflects the Rulers' concern to preserve racial harmony while ensuring the position of Islam and the constitutional monarchy system were respected, said Umno Youth chief Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein. "The stand is long awaited and I am confident that the institution of the Malay Rulers as the sovereign of the country, not only protects the Malays but also the people as a whole. "I call on all quarters to take a serious view of the reminder from the Rulers by not questioning the primary basis of the formation and prosperity of Malaysia," he said in a statement Friday. Hishammuddin said no one should question matters enshrined in the Federal Constitution on the Malay Rulers, the Malay and Bumiputera rights, the position of Islam as the official religion and the Malay language as the national language. Muslim Consumers Association of Malaysia secretary-general Datuk Ma'amor Osman said the Rulers had played their role and used their power by issuing the statement. "Matters stipulated in the social contract should not be questioned by any party as they have become the concrete foundation in the formation of the country," he said. Malaysia Youth Council secretary-general Tajudin Ahmad urged the government to take stern action against certain quarters who tried to disrupt racial harmony by questioning the constitution.

Dr M wants Umno to be rid of ‘Abdullah toadies’

By Shannon Teoh

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 - Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed has called on Umno to discard “Abdullah toadies” entirely from the party leadership or face the prospect of losing hold of federal government.

“If the Government of Najib is to be different from that of Abdullah, then Abdullah toadies must not be in,” the former party president said in reference to Datuk Seri Najib Razak's expected victory and appointment as prime minister after the March 2009 party polls.

Umno President Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi had promised to handover power to Najib in a mid-2010 transition plan but it has been fast-forwarded to March after intense pressure for him to step down as soon as possible.

Malaysia's longest-serving premier explained that if the wrong leadership was picked, then it would finish off Umno.

“If this were to happen then the incoming leadership of Umno will go down in history as the betrayers of this once glorious and powerful political machine.”

Mahathir, who has been criticising his successor Abdullah for years now, wrote in his blog that it was still unclear whether delegates would back those opposed to Abdullah or otherwise.

With nominations by divisions still ongoing, he reasoned that the lead in the deputy presidency and Wanita chief race by Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin - who has been the most vocal in pushing for Abdullah to step down as soon as possible - and Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz seemed to signal that the grassroots will back those who have been critical of Abdullah.

“This could end the ambitions of Datuk Azalina Othman Said, one of Abdullah's and Khairy Jamaluddin's most ardent supporters,” he said, referring to Abdullah's son-in-law who is running for Umno Youth chief against Mahathir's son Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir.

Mahathir also noted that Datuk Shafie Apdal was a strident voice urging Abdullah to step down and is likely to win enough nominations for vice-president.

He warned however, against counting chickens before they hatched as “important though the nomination by divisions to qualify” may be, the final say “lies with the delegates attending the AGM.”

He cited as an example, when his presidency was challenged by Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah in 1987.

“I had more than three-fourths of the division nominations. But I won by only 43 votes.”

“Lots of things can happen when the AGM is held in Kuala Lumpur. I will not be surprised to see a lot of money flow, and a lot of minds changed,” he added, claiming that in 1987, a break for Friday prayers was used to persuade delegates “by one means or another to ignore the decisions of their divisions and to vote for someone else.”

He asserted that it is important that Umno avoids money politics as “the country is watching this
Umno elections with bated breath.”

“If the delegates allow their greed to overcome their better judgement then it will be the last time they are the king-makers in Malaysia.”

He explained that under Abdullah's administration, tactics such as “dishing out lucrative jobs and titles, abusing the authority conferred on them, threats of all kinds” were used to safeguard the positions of a few “pretenders.”

“But their assumption was wrong. The division and branch leaders may kowtow to them but the rank and file and the non-member supporters decided to vote for the opposition,” he claimed.

He claimed as proof, the losses suffered in the March 8 general elections and the opposition's increased majority in the Permatang Pauh by-election which allowed Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim back into Parliament after a 10 year absence.-themalaysianinsider

Rulers’ Conference special statement - testimony of nation-building in crisis

(Limkitsiangblog)The Conference of Rulers issued a special joint press statement at its 215th meeting in Kuala Terengganu on the social contract as the bedrock of the formation of Malaysia, in particular “on the role of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Malay rulers regarding the special privileges, position, eminence or greatness of the Malay rulers, Islam, Malay as the national language, the special position of the Malays, and genuine interests of the other communities in accordance with the Federal Constitution”.

This is an unprecedented document and is testimony of Malaysian nation-building facing a crisis of confidence after half-a-century of nationhood – in particular after the March 8 “political tsunami” seven months ago.

This was the theme of my 2009 budget speech in Parliament on Tuesday and Wednesday, where I raised many issues on the tsunami of crisis of confidence afflicting Malaysia - affecting the Prime Minister, the Prime Minister-in-waiting, the Attorney-General, the Inspector-General, the judiciary and on a whole spectrum of issues whether on anti-corruption, human rights or nation-building.

The special press statement of the Conference of Rulers should be seriously studied by all Malaysians, whether political parties, civic organizations or ordinary citizens for the unity, harmony, prosperity and greatness of the Malaysian nation must be regarded as the responsibility and challenge of every Malaysian citizen, regardless of race, religion or territory so that we can enhance our national competitiveness in the borderless era of information technology and globalization.

Following is the special press statement of the Conference of Rulers on several matters enshrined in the Federal Constitution.

“Press statement issued by the Keeper of the Rulers’ Seal on the role of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Malay rulers regarding the special privileges, position, eminence or greatness of the Malay rulers, Islam, Malay as the national language, the special position of the Malays, and genuine interests of the other communities in accordance with the Federal Constitution.

“The Malay rulers who attended the meeting of the Conference of Rulers conferred on the issuing of this special joint press statement.

“The Malay rulers hold the constitutional role to safeguard the special privileges, position, eminence and greatness of the Malay rulers, safeguard Islam, Malay as the national language, and the genuine interests of the other communities in Malaysia.

“The actions of certain quarters in disputing and questioning these matters, which formed the primary basis for the formation of Malaysia and are enshrined in the Federal Constitution, had caused provocation and uneasiness among the people.

“In retaliation, several quarters particularly Malay leaders whether in the government or non-governmental organisations as well as individuals had expressed their dissatisfaction and anger against those who had made the statements and reports and organised the forums.

“Among the reasons identified for these to have occurred is the cursory knowledge of those concerned regarding the historical background as to why these provisions were enshrined in the Federal Constitution and the influence of their attempts to implicate the principles of impartiality and justice without regard for the historical background and social condition of this country. Narrow political interests are also a cause.

“Unless this phenomenon is arrested immediately, it can lead to disunity and racial strife that can undermine the peace and harmony which has all this while brought progress, development and success to the nation.

“As such, it is necessary for the Conference of Rulers to emphasise and remind all quarters of these constitutional provisions besides giving emphasis to the assurance of safeguarding the genuine rights of other communities.

“It has to be emphasised that each provision in the Federal Constitution has undergone the process of discussion, consideration, consultation, sacrifice and compromise of the highest degree for what has been championed, discussed, considered, benefited from as well as agreed to by all quarters concerned, until the realisation of the provisions in the Federal Constitution which are known as the Social Contract.

“It is not proper to dispute and question this Social Contract and more so to subject it to a review or change because it is the primary basis of the formation of Malaysia. Therefore, it is appropriate for the Malay rulers to remind that there should never be any attempt ever to test and challenge issues related to the Social Contract.

“Truly, the leaders of the pre-independence era were insightful, far-sighted. They brought along with them the Malay rulers for the negotiations to claim independence. The institution of the rulers was retained and legally enshrined in the Constitution of an independent Malaysia.

“The institution of the Rulers was accorded eminence, was positioned at the apex of government, as the head of the country and the states, as a protective umbrella, ensuring impartiality among the citizens. The institution of rulers takes on the role of being a check-and-balance to untangle complications, if any.

“The Conference of Rulers also calls on the Malays to be united to safeguard the privileges, position, eminence and greatness of the Malay rulers, safeguard Islam, Malay as the national language, and the genuine interests of the other communities in Malaysia as enshrined in the Federal Constitution. It has to be emphasised that this agenda is more important and foremost than political or factional interests.

“Non-Malays should not harbour any apprehension or worry over their genuine rights because these rights are guaranteed under the Federal Constitution and provisions of the state constitutions of Malaysia contained in Article 153 of the Federal Constitution.

“It is hoped that with this emphasis, all confusion among the people regarding these matters can be contained and an atmosphere of peace, harmony and mutual respect can continue to exist among the people for the maintenance of order in the country.”

Nik Aziz and his cheap, plastic BIC ballpoint pen

(Anilnetto) Here’s something our politicians can learn from Kelantan Mentri Besar Niz Aziz, who lives in a simple wooden house.

Farish Noor describes his encounter with the simple politician who still uses the same type of ballpoint that he saw him using when they met in 1999.

Blog reader Zack adds:

Nik Aziz was once ask why he did not press the BIC ballpoint pen hard on to the paper when signing documents. His simple answer was that it was to save ink! This man is a rare breed and one in a million.

We all know what most of the Barisan leaders are like, but I wonder to what extent the other Pakatan leaders will change their life-styles if and when they come to power.

In this respect, they can’t go wrong if they emulate the simple life-style of Nik Aziz.

I will let blog-reader Karma have the final say:

A great man, he is. Tok Guru reminds me of Gandhi. Both have spiritual strength and it is this strength that has coloured their personalities. Gandhi left no material wealth when he died, but he left spiritual wealth to the people of this world. Tok Guru would always remind us of the importance of spiritual values rather than forms in life. He believes in moderation. He also believes in simplicity.

His soft spot for all races and religions is because of his spiritual richness. When a person is spiritually strong, he will not waver when it comes to principles in life. Friendship to him is genuine. To forgive for him is divine. Hopefully, with his spiritual strength, Malaysians would be guided to the right path.

I remember in one of his religious talks he said, “Every Malaysian and every human being has the right to live peacefully in this world. Hate not each other, but help each other. Don’t make greed a way of life, as this will lead to selfishness. We are all children of God, seek in us the similarities and not the differences and this will lead us to a true bond among all. It is only when your heart is spiritually cleansed would you appreciate the beauty of creation and discover the truth.

“This is only a temporary world, remember. No one will live forever, strong or weak. So, nurture in you pleasantness to achieve the best in life. Rich or poor, you will one day leave this world. So, be kind to all when you are in this world.”