Police should take up Bala's SD2, says ex-CID chief

Even though the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) has closed its case on private investigator P Balasubramaniam's second statutory declaration (SD), the police should initiate their own probe on the matter, says former Kuala Lumpur Criminal Investigation Department chief, Mat Zain Ibrahim.

This case should not be viewed as an ordinary corruption case or a breach of ethics under the Legal Profession Act, he added.

Balasubramaniam's false SD not only involves the murder of a foreign national in the most cruel and appalling nature in the country's history but also contained valid information implicating the country's number one leader and his family as well as sales of defense intelligence," he said.

As such, Mat Zain said, the police should not leave this matter to the MACC or Bar Council to investigate.

"The police force will be viewed as irresponsible and cowardly if it does not dare to exert its power and skills to investigate this case to its very roots and bring all those responsible to justice in whatever way necessary," he said.

Balasubramaniam had claimed that he had signed the second SD, reversing his earlier one linking Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak to murdered Mongolian national Altantuya Shaariibuu, under duress and was also offered bribe for it.

He had admitted that the second SD was false and challenged attorney-general Abdul Gani Patail to charge him.

Mat Zain said that while MACC views the case as corruption under its own jurisdiction, a false SD is a criminal offence under the Penal Code which comes under police oversight.

He noted that while there was an initial police investigation, Abdul Gani had decided to drop the case against Balasubramaniam for the two conflicting SDs, justifying the move by saying that they were never used in court.

The fact is Section 193 of the Penal Code clearly states that it is a criminal offence to make a false statement, be it for use in court proceedings or any other purpose. The only difference is in sentencing, he said

He added that if the intention was for the SDs to be presented in court, the punishment would be a jail term of up to seven years, for other purposes, the offender would still be liable to three years in jail.

Mat Zain concluded that the decision not to charge Balasubramaniam could be due to apprehension over the possibility of the link among the premier, his confidante, Abdul Razak Baginda, and Altantuya being dragged into the picture.

Revival of Hindu Rashtra in Nepal is connected with the Establishment of a Hindu Rashtra in Bharat.

Why, What and Whom for Secularism in Nepal?
Revive the ancient Hindu Rashtra in present Nepal immediately.

By Dirgha Raj Prasai.

Nepal was bigger during the ancient time. ‘Himwatkhanda-Nepal’ extended from Bramhaputra in the East to Hindukush in the west, Kailash Mansovar in the North and Ganga in the South. In time the ‘Himwatkhanda Nepal’ disintegrated into many smaller nations. The fact is mentioned in the Prayaga archive of Samudra Gupta, the son of Bikramaditya, that ‘Nepal’ is a place lying in between Kamrup (current Assam) and Karkarpur (current Kumau). We can infer from these facts that Himwatkhanda Nepal in the ancient times was bigger than what is today. This area of the Himwatkhanda is the golden land. A veteran Rishi (Hindu’s ascetic Guru) in a special Vedic scripture has mentioned about Himwatkhanda, “Bharatkhande Utarayane Himalaya Tate Swarnabhumi, Swarnabhumi,” meaning ‘the northern part of Bharatkhande, the Himalayan mountains is the golden land and just haven’. We can draw inference as to the greatness of this land. Kalidash in his ‘Kumaar Sambhav’ has mentioned, “The land from Eastern Himalayas to the Western Himalayas is the Arya land.” Before the Muslim and English regime, Bharatbarsha had comprised 25 nations. After the unification of India by East India Company, then India was called Hindustan. But, before the King, the creator of greater Nepal- Prithvi Narayan Shah 1800 B.S (Bikram Sambat era) had said- ‘Nepal is the real ‘Hindusthana‘ at 1800 Bs (1753, AD)

During the time when Himwatkhanda Nepal remained a unified country the current powerful nations were divided into many smaller nations. Bismark had unified Germany, which had existed in the façade of many smaller nations, a hundred years after Nepal’s unification. Italy was also divided into many smaller nations a hundred years before Nepal’s unification, which was transformed into a greater Italy by good sons as Kabur and Gyalibhardi. Japan came out of the dark-age under the leadership of its King after Mehiji restoration hundred years after Nepal’s unification. Two decades before the unification of Nepal the now superpower America was a British colony. Prithvinarayan Shah had already unfurled the flag depicting the Sun and the Moon and unified the small kingdoms into a Himwatkhanda Nepal to save the tradition of this area. The Sanskrit language was the popular language of ancient Nepal and India. A famous Scholar Max Mucller has written in his book- ‘India-What Can it teach us’-’ Sanskrit no doubt has an immense advantage over all other ancient language of the East. In a certain Sense we are still speaking and thinking Sanskrit or more correctly Sanskrit is like a dear aunt to use and she takes the place of a mother who is no more. Let us take a brief look at additional evidence to help verify the ides that Sanskrit was the original language of the world, and that it is connected with numerous countries and cultures. Latin and Persian are dialects of Sanskrit. Greek has borrowed a lot from Sanskrit. French & English are full Sanskrit words, roots and speech forms.

So, the identification of Himwatkhanda Nepal is associated with the ancient Vedic Hindu religion. May all be happy in the world and let no one suffer from disease and be sad. May no one keep ill will towards another being? May all be liberal and compassionate? ‘Basudhaiv Kutumbakam’. All humans of the world are our relatives. May all receive equal amount of food, relation and shelter. Let us become a liberal character of compassion and be active for omnipresent. May all worlds be well? ‘OM- Shanti’ is Vedic Hindu customs cleansed indicative. The welfare and happiness of all is the supreme system which is the belief of the Vedic Hindu society. Dr. Basudev Krishna Shastri writes, “Hindus worship the Sun. The light that emanates from Sun is common for all. Without water no living being can survive. This is everyone’s right. Such things are beyond divisions, and consumed by all as per their necessity. For the prosperity of human life there must remain equal right and prerogative among us. No one should be hindered from contributing to their nation. So it is mentioned in the Veda, ‘Let us all rise for national awareness.’” This shows that Hindu religion is the vehicle that would show path to all human societies. Bramha- Bishnu-Maheshwor (the three Lords) is the guidance of Vedic Hindu life. In the ancient, Vedic Hindu religions the supreme is the ocean where anyone can swim anyhow.

Among all religions of the world Hindu religion is considered as the most liberal. According to renowned philosopher Voltaire, Hinduism is the best gift of the East to the West. Similarly, George Bernard Shaw, Irish litterateur also said ‘Hindu religion is the most important and the most liberal religion in the world. According to Encyclopedia of Religions and Ethics, signs of Hindu religion are even found in the present Islamic country like Iran. A stone scripture of 486 BC found in Iran contains the words Hindu and Hindus. Even an ancient Parsi scripture ‘Shatir’ has lifted a word of Ved Vyas ‘I am a true Hindu born in a Hindu country’. Another Hindu philosopher Manu has taken the area between Bindhya in south India and the Himalayas in the north as Aryabrata, the land of Aryans. Even outside travelers like Megasthaniz and Fai Han have written in their travel memoirs after their visit of the Kingdom of Chandra Gupta Maurya that Hindus have tall figure, long life, healthy, who avoid narcotics, simple, intelligent, truthful, who do not keep witness in transactions, do not lock their houses and there is no theft. So, in the evolutionary process of the world’s civilization, Hindu philosophy is taken as liberal, simple and tolerant.

The declaration of Nepal as a Hindu Kingdom does not signify just its religion rather it is taken as the source of Nepalese nationalism and an inseparable part of Nepal. So, the party leaders made a grave mistake by declaring Nepal as a secular state. If instead of declaring Nepal as solely a Hindu country, it would have made sense if it were declared both Hindu and Buddhist country. But it is a matter of serious concern for whose interest Nepal was declared a secular state. Nepal is a small country and on the south there is a big country with open border. There are about 800 million Hindus and Indian Hindus respect Nepal as a Hindu kingdom. This should be taken as a matter of pride for us. For security reasons also, Nepal has a big advantage by being a Hindu country. If the Maoists are for Nepal’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity, all Nepalese request them to change their idea about secularism. Even if one is a Christian or a Muslim, they should support to keep Nepal a Hindu country. But the seven political parties have made a great mistake by announcing Nepal as a secular state.

Even if one talks about secularism, the census 2001 AD can be taken as referendum. That time those who call them intellectuals, leaders of ethnic communities and communists and those who call themselves Christians had made campaign not to write anything in the column for religion or not to write Hindu as their religion. But the Hindus never confronted them or made it an issue. Despite the campaign against Hinduism, the number of Hindus in Nepal was found to be 82 per cent. If one keeps the Buddhists out the number of Hindus before the 2001 census was 83 per cent. Half of the diminished numbers were increased in Buddhism and Kiratis and there was half percentage point increment in Christians. The rise in Buddhism and Kiratis do not make much of a difference because Buddhism and Hinduism are complementary to each other and Kiratis also worship the same gods such as Shiva and Bhagawati like the Hindus.

Therefore, if instead of declaring Nepal as solely a Hindu country, it would have made sense if it were declared both Hindu and Buddhist country. But it is a matter of serious concern for whose interest Nepal was declared a secular state. No one has right to trample believe and conviction of more than two-thirds majority of the people. Even if there is a referendum, more than 85 percent Nepalese will vote for a Hindu country. More than that Hindus have the freedom to pursue their own way of observing the religion. Therefore, if Nepal is to be declared a secular country, all countries, which call themselves as Christian or Muslim countries should also be declared secular countries. If they want Nepal to become a secular country, they should also be willing to shun their ‘Cross’ of the Christians, ‘sign of David’ of the Jews and ‘Kaba’ of Muslims. Actually, Kaba shrine is a pre-Islamic Shiva temple where the Hindu practice of perambulation is still meticulously observed and strictly followed. However, it needs to be pondered that even if Nepal was a Hindu Kingdom, its nature was a defacto secular country as Hindus have never done anything that would harass or trouble other religions. (So, the abolition of an only official Hindu Rashtra (Nation-State) in Nepal in 2008 was actually a clear violation of secularism as public realize it now generally. At least Maoists are not secular any way. They are the bloody Communists against Humanity in all sense. Ed. Hindu Existence).

It is shameful to write that in Nepal there are some existing international non-governmental organization (INGO) who are talking to develop Nepal but they were and has been involving in spreading the Christian religion with money and giving the fallacious assurance. The Nepalese religious people always regard the other religions. Nepal and the monarch never show the religious intolerance. From the very beginning, there are two Mosques in front of the Royal palace, near Clock Tower, have never faced intolerance. But, the so-called big party leaders and some civil society’ and INGO conveners who are the puppets Christian Mission are active to destroy the indigenous culture and identities. We should remember the quotation of Voltaire: “Christianity is the most ridiculous, the most absurd and bloody religion that has ever infected the world.”

Despite knowing this fact it is intriguing on whose interest the so-called big parties including Maoist declared Nepal a secular state. They had directly hurt the feeling of the majority of the Hindus in the country and more than 1 billion Hindus all over the world. Political leaders must rethink its decision. What they should have done is to remove the anomalies such as untouchables and other caste-based and social discriminations. This would have been the real tribute and service to the country and to the religion. Apart from some social anomalies there is nothing in Hindu religion that should be opposed. By declaring republic and Nepal a secular country; they are only serving the interest of a narrow group. Otherwise, if one thinks of the liberalism and tolerance, Hinduism comes first and foremost of all other religions.

If we want to understand the reality about the secularism we can study the national history of India. A world renowned Hindutva analyst Stephen Knapp says- India is slowly losing the Vedic culture (Hinduism) is through the process of secular or Christian education. In public schools all Vedic books have been removed from the curriculum. There are no possibilities to study the ancient Hindu literature or art in such institutions. The Hindu population is slowly forgetting the unique history and lofty culture of their home land. 5th Feb. 2008- Peoples Review). In fact the Christian saints order to destroy the huts where they keep the idols of Hindu’s God & Goddess and to break the statues of Hindus idols into tiny pieces. That was there goal to destroy Hindu & Buddha culture and make the country a Christian nation. The most dangerous steps is that the Indian Congress I- leadership groups are all Christians.

The Cultural Analyst Stephen Knnap writes- India is a predominantly Hindu nation. 83% of the Indian population is Hindu. But it is a matter of great regret that India is the only country in the world where the Hindu majority population is being ruled by the other 17% minority communities. Sonia Gandhi, the President of the ruling Congress Party is a practicing Catholic Christian. Her son Rahul Gandhi who is being groomed as the next Prime Minister of India is also a Christian. Sonia’s daughter Priyanka Vadra and her husband Robert Vadra are also Christians. India’s Defense Minister is A K Anthony, a Christian. Sonia’s closest advisers are Christains: Margaret Alva (resigned recently), Oscar Fernandez, Ambika Soni, all are Christians. (yes, despite Ambika’s big Hindu sounding name, she is a Christian).

It is a matter of grief that the nonsense foreigners (both the Evangelic and Arabic Groups – Ed. Hindu Existence) who want to destroy the Nepalese identities, sovereignty had and have been supporting the Maoist groups. A Nepalese political analyst Prakash A. Raj writes-’The end of monarchy in Nepal and the declaration of republic would not have been possible without the support of Government of India as the Indian brokerage of ’12 Point Accord’ played the most important role in the success of Jana Andolan-2 (public agitation) in 2006. Thus. India, the secular country (actually anti-Hindu and run by an Italian lady – Ed. Hindu Existence) having the largest Hindu population in the world unfortunately played a dominant role in abolishing the only Hindu kingdom in the world. The stand taken by two European countries, Norway and Switzerland in supporting the Maoists after King Gyanendra took over power in February 2005 and before April 2006 is very revealing as it helped to gather support against the monarchy. Norway has shown a lot of interest in Nepal and was one of the few countries to welcome the first Maoist Prime Minister (Prachanda) of Nepal-2008. Now, all the foreigners are suffering by their mistakes.

Therefore, the question is why and how could they throw away the oldest and the most liberal of all religion just to serve the interest of another religion (Christian). The most important thing is that no religion and at the moment Hinduism must not be made a political issue. But by declaring republic & Nepal a secular state, they have made mixed religion with politics, which could be very dangerous and detrimental to the whole Nepalese society. Now it is a high time Nepal should be careful to save her indigenous culture. So, let all Nepalese unite and raise voice to revert the irresponsible party’s decision and again declare the constitutional monarchy as well as Hindu Rashtra in Nepal as a fortified and flourishing land of traditional Hindus & Buddhists as a resource of Global Peace and Humanity.

(This revival of ancient Hindu Rashtra in Nepal mostly depends upon the tie-up of Nepal Monarchy and Public in a coherent good-faith, welfare of public by the existing Hindu dynasty in Nepal and Hindu Sentiment in general. But, the role of Bharat is the main factor which must be a pro-Hindu form from all sides. Unless and until Bharat is declared as a Hindu State within 2025, the revival of a Hindu State in Nepal is remote. Revival of Hindu Rashtra in Nepal is now connected with the Establishment of a Hindu Rashtra in Bharat. So, the adherent Hindus of Nepal and Bharat (India) must fight jointly for the Hindu States both in Bharat and Nepal. Jayatu Jayatu Hindu Rashtram! Jai Bharat Hindu Rashtra !! Jai Nepal Hindu Rashtra !!! – Ed. Hindu Existence).

Egypt tourism slump blamed on Islamist rule

From Red Sea resorts, to Nile cruises, to the Giza pyramids, pictured, Egypt's tourism industry is struggling

FOR millennia, the Sphinx guarding Cairo's famed pyramids has gazed upon the rise and fall of civilisations and the passage of countless visitors.

Now though, the ancient statue is looking on an absence of foreign tourists.

They have been chased away, the coterie of local souvenir hawkers and guides in its shadow say, by the political turmoil swirling over the country.

On Saturday, as polling stations nearby received voters for the second round of a referendum on an Islamist-backed constitution, the Giza Necropolis, as the site comprising the Great Sphynx and the pyramids is known, was all but empty.

"Currently there is no tourism in Egypt," grumbled Adel Anwar, the 32-year-old owner of a trinket stall.

"The new Islamist government has no experience in managing the state," he said. "The Islamists care only about their interests, not us. They forget about everyone else."

The complaint is a common one among workers dependent on Egypt's tourist industry, a key earner for the economy.

From Red Sea resorts, to Nile cruises, to the Giza pyramids - one of the Seven Wonders of the World - the industry is struggling.

Before the early 2011 revolution that ended the 30-year rule of Hosni Mubarak, tourism accounted for $US12.5 billion ($12 billion) of Egypt's $US510-billion ($490-billion) economy.

Last year, that income slumped 30 per cent to $US8.8 billion as fewer tourists came, those that did spent less, and Egypt's currency declined in value.

President Mohamed Morsi and his Muslim Brotherhood campaigned on a platform of bringing back stability, and stressed that - despite the fears of their detractors - they had no plans to impose Islamist rules banning alcohol or bikinis.

But the promised stability has not been forthcoming. Instead Egypt has been jostled for a month now by protests for and against Mr Morsi, and for and against the constitution he calls key to the country's future.

"We need stability to get tourists back. But the Islamist rule is provoking more instability and rage," said Sayed Abdel Tawab, a 33-year-old tour guide who has seen his daily earnings shrink from $32 per day to $11.

"I have no hope there will be stability," said Yasser Bahlol, 33, in his own souvenir stand as he idly surveyed what would previously have been a bustling, high-season flow of visitors. Only a few Egyptian visitors wandered past, spending little.

"The constitution doesn't mention tourism at all even though tourism is a major pillar of the economy," he said. He added he was now looking to start a business outside the tourism sector to earn money.

Only one person there, Ahmed El-Leby, 52, was found supporting the constitution and Mr Morsi's government.

"I'll vote yes for stability," he said. "The opposition isn't patriotic."

That assessment was not shared by Demrdash Ghoneim as he waited in vain for tourists to ride one of his 10 horses. "Extremist Islamists are keeping tourists away from Egypt," he said.

The referendum result will solve nothing, Ghoneim predicted. "The Muslim Brotherhood divided the country with the constitution."

Read more: http://www.news.com.au/travel/egypt-tourism-slump-blamed-on-islamist-rule/story-e6frfq7r-1226542463908#ixzz2FuE4h7F7

Spanish Government Revokes Imran Firasat's Refugee Status Because he Made Anti-Mohammed Video

Absolutely shameful. Doubly shameful that they did it last thing on a Friday afternoon on the weekend before Christmas, when they knew almost no one would be paying attention.

The Spanish authorities have revoked the refugee status of a Pakistani citizen who recorded a defamatory video about Mohammed, for "jeopardising the security of the Spanish state, EFE was informed today by sources in the Ministry of Interior.

The decision, adopted at the last minute this Friday, was taken because the Pakistani citizen Imran Firasat, based in Spain, is considered "a threat to national security".

The author of the controversial video, who can present appeals against this decision, will have to abandon Spain, where he has been residing legally since 24 October 2006 - when he was granted the status of political refugee "for humanitarian reasons" - when the decision is final.

The judge who is investigating the making of the controversial video warned the Pakistani citizen Imran Firasat that if he distributed the video by any means he would order his immediate arrest, sources closed to the case informed EFE. The magistrate had accused the Pakistani of the crime of incitement to hatred and religious violence.

He is accused of threatening the security of the Spanish state by recording this tape which asks, among other things, whether Mohammed was a "child abuser".

Firasat now has a period of time in which to present appeals against the decision of the Ministry of Interior to revoke his refugee status and a judge will have the last word. If the judge decides to revoke his asylum status, this citizen of Pakistani origin will have to leave Spain.

Source: El Diario H/T: Maria José

Imran, if you're read this, the smart play here, from the perspective of the anti-jihad cause, is for you to go through the appeals process to the maximum extent, turning it into a theatrical event, trying to get some politicians and media on your side or at least interested enough to cover the cause. You need to dramatise the dhimmitude of the Spanish government to the Spanish people so they can see it and react to it. If it all takes place in obscurity, that reaction cannot take place. Consider carrying out some publicity stunt, like burning a Koran in front of Moncloa Palace. Or maybe burn a Koran and a Bible, just to dramatise the difference in reactions to the two different books. Or run in front of Prime Minister Rajoy holding a sign or wearing a T-shirt that says "Sharia victim" or something like that. That way the media will be forced to cover the case. If you lose the appeal, you can go to some other European country and appeal for asylum there, going through the whole process again. Of course none of this is going to be pleasant. You just need to be strong.

If you need to flee Spain, go to Britain. The human rights infrastructure there is so strong, it will be almost impossible for the government to throw you out.

India moves to quell gang-rape protests, but crowds build again

NEW DELHI, Dec 23 — The Indian government moved today to stamp out protests that have swelled in

Demonstrators shout slogans during a protest rally organised by various women's organisations in New Delhi. — Reuters pic

New Delhi since the gang-rape of a young woman, banning gatherings of more than five people, but still thousands poured into the heart of the capital to vent their anger.

Police in riot gear used tear gas and batons to hold crowds back from marching on the presidential palace, just as they did the day before in clashes that media reports said injured more than two dozen protesters.

Doctors said the 23-year-old victim of last week's attack, who was beaten, raped for almost an hour and thrown out of a moving bus in New Delhi, was still in a critical condition on respiratory support but responding to treatment.

New Delhi has the highest number of sex crimes among India's major cities, with a rape reported on average every 18 hours, according to police figures.

Most sexual assaults go unreported and unremarked, but the brutality of last week's attack triggered the biggest protests in the capital since mid-2011 demonstrations against corruption that rocked the government of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

The protesters, predominantly college students but also housewives and even children, are demanding more steps from the authorities to ensure safety for women and some want the death penalty for the accused.

Several city metro stations were closed and several roads were barricaded on Sunday to prevent a build-up of protesters.

However, by early afternoon the crowd around the India Gate monument - normally a festive place on a Sunday - had swelled to more than 2,000, according to police there. Scuffles broke out near government buildings, where youths shouted "Down with Delhi police!" and threw bottles at the forces holding them back.

Bowing to public pressure, Sonia Gandhi, chief of the ruling Congress party, emerged from her residence after midnight to talk to protesters. She went out again on Sunday with her son, Rahul Gandhi, who is seen as a future prime minister.

"She assured us of justice," said one of the students who met the Gandhis, though some in the crowds shouted "Down with Sonia Gandhi!".

Since last week's rape, the authorities have promised better police patrolling to ensure safety for women returning from work and entertainment districts, the installation of GPS on public transport vehicles, more buses at night, and fast-track courts for swift verdicts on cases of rape and sexual assault. — Reuters

RM100 mill mystery : Lets meet, NIAT tells MIC

A local NGO wants MIC to explain why an alleged RM90 million meant for Tamil schools was returned to the government.

KUALA LUMPUR: The National Indian Rights Action Team (NIAT) wants to meet MIC leaders to trash out issues pertaining to the RM100 million allocation for Tamil schools nationwide.

NIAT chairman Thasleem Mohamed Ibrahim, they will be sending MIC and official letter requesting them to attend a meeting on January 5 at the Soma Hall in Menara Manickavasagan here.

He said in addition, NIAT will also invite other Indian officials like Pemandu director D Raveendran and the head of Tamil school development Dr NS Rajendran for the meeting.

“Our office bearers will be present. We hope MIC leaders will also attend. We believe the proposed talk will only strengthen the community as this is a community issue. So we hope MIC would not overlook the matter due to political differences,” he said.

Thasleem said the Indians are still fighting for fundamental rights like education and job opportunities and there is an urgent need to find out why monies allocated for Tamil schools repairs were allegedly returned to the government.

“It is time that MIC leaders explain the situation and listen to feedback from the community with regards to allocations to upgrade and improve the condition of Tamil schools.

“Both the Chinese and the Tamil schools were each provided with a special allocation of RM100 million.

“While the Chinese schools have fully utilised the funds, the money for the Tamil schools is still a mystery,” Thasleem said.

In the 2012 budget, Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak awarded RM100mil to 369 partially-aided Tamil schools in the country.

The funds for Tamil schools were channeled through the MIC.

Silent Palani

However media reports claimed that only RM10million had reached the schools and the balance RM90 million was returned to the Education Ministry.

“We have checked with some Education Ministry top officials about the funds. And we came to a conclusion that MIC does not have details of the fund and how it was spent.

“So, we like to initiate talks with the MIC to sort-out matters which has dragged on for the last three years,” said Thasleem.

He pointed out that it was not enough just asking the government for funds, it was also important that MIC has details of how much was spent on a certain school to avoid duplication.

In recent days, several parties have questioned the whereabouts of the remaining RM90 million. Thus far MIC president G Palanivel has been silent on the issue.

Two weeks ago Palanivel, at the MIC annual general assembly, requested Najib to allocate RM350 million a year, for the next three years, to upgrade all the 523 Tamil schools in the country.

RM19mil losses: Businessman claims signature forged

A businessman was shocked to find that the Kuala Lumpur High Court had attested three affidavits without verifying it with him.

KUALA LUMPUR: A businessman whose company was tasked to execute the RM272 million Melaka Tram project today claimed that his signatures were forged in three affidavits submitted to court over a shares dispute, causing him to lose shares worth RM19 million.

Mrails International Sdn Bhd managing director V. Jeya Kumar said he was even more shocked to find out that the Kuala Lumpur High Court had attested the three affidavits between last year and now without verifying it with him.

Speaking to reporters after lodging a police report here over the forged signatures, Jeya Kumar said he was taken to court last year by an individual over a shares transfer dispute. He declined to name the individual.

Jeyakumar claimed he left the matter to a lawyer as he had often travelled out of the country last year.

After a while, he was told that he had lost the case and he suffered another blow when the Court of Appeal handed down a similar judgment in July.

Perusing court documents later, he found out that someone had forged his signature in an affidavit dated July 21, 2011.

“That day I was not in the country at all. As I continued reading the documents, I found out more,” he claimed.

He however did not want to speculate whether his lawyer was the one who did this.

Jeya Kumar also criticised the court for their oversight, saying that it can be equated to an injustice to him.

The businessman said he would have go to the police station for another round of statement-recording.

He also said the dispute had nothing to do with the tram project.

Karpal Singh ticks off two party leaders who accepted Datukships

(The Star) - DAP chairman Karpal Singh (pix) has chided two party leaders, Datuk Ngeh Koo Ham and Datuk Teng Chang Khim, for accepting Datukships from state rulers, which is against the party's long-standing principle.

He said that according to the principle agreed upon by party members since the mid 1990s, DAP state assemblymen and Members of Parliament were not to accept Datukships during their tenure in office.

“From now on, the party will take action against members who don't follow this ruling,” he said, adding that the form of punishment would be decided by the party's disciplinary board after a hearing.

Ngeh, who is also Perak DAP chairman, was conferred the title in 2008 while Teng, who is the Selangor state assembly speaker, accepted a Datukship in 2010.

Saudi website editor could face death for apostasy-rights group

(Reuters) - The editor of a Saudi Arabian website could be sentenced to death after a judge cited him for apostasy and moved his case to a higher court, the monitoring group Human Rights Watch said yesterday.

Raif Badawi, who started the Free Saudi Liberals website to discuss the role of religion in Saudi Arabia, was arrested in June, Human Rights Watch said.

Badawi had initially been charged with the less serious offence of insulting Islam through electronic channels, but at a December 17 hearing a judge referred him to a more senior court and recommended he be tried for apostasy, the monitoring group said.

Apostasy, the act of changing religious affiliation, carries an automatic death sentence in Saudi Arabia, along with crimes including blasphemy.

Badawi’s website included articles that were critical of senior religious figures, the monitoring group said.

A spokesman for Saudi Arabia’s Justice Ministry was not available to comment.

The world’s top oil exporter follows the strict Wahhabi school of Islam and applies Islamic law, or sharia.

Judges base their decisions on their own interpretation of religious law rather than on a written legal code or on precedent.

King Abdullah, Saudi Arabia’s ruler, has pushed for reforms to the legal system, including improved training for judges and the introduction of precedent to standardise verdicts and make courts more transparent.

However, Saudi lawyers say that conservatives in the Justice Ministry and the judiciary have resisted implementing many of the changes that he announced in 2007.

OMINOUS SILENCE from Dr M to Najib's plan for MACC to vet election candidates

Raised eyebrows, annoyance, snorts and sniggers. Those were among the most common responses to a plan by Umno President and Barisan Nasional chairman Najib Razak to seek the help of the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission to vet the ruling coalition’s candidates for the forthcoming 13th General Election.

To make it worse, there has been nothing but an ominous silence to this proposal from the most powerful man in Umno today, Najib's former boss and ex-premier Mahathir Mohamad, and with good reasons too.

Mahathir's son, Mukhriz, is unlikely to make the grade given the father’s reported US$ 44 billion in assets and the flight of US$ 200 billion in dirty money last year. In fact, few if any of the top leaders in Umno would be able to make the grade, with the entire plan already ridiculed by the public and tagged as an eye-wash to curry favor in a most childish way with voters.

Trying to scare the Devil or negotiating better exit terms



What is Najib trying to do? As far as the general perception goes, Najib along with Mahathir should to be among the first to be axed given the former's humongous Scorpene corruption and Altantuya Shaariibuu murder scandals. Can the 59-year-old Najib really be so fatuous as to believe that by roping in the MACC, whose own integrity is in doubt, it will make things right with voters?

Come on, voters are already sick and tired of the Umno-BN's never-ending story of bribery and plundering of the national coffers. So what is Najib after? Is he trying to warn Mahathir and his own deputy, the also corruption-tainted Muhyiddin Yassin, to back off? Red-hot on the Umno grapevine is talk that Mahathir and Muhyiddin have struck a deal to push out Najib before GE13. Is Najib trying to signal that he won't be giving up so easily and if he has to, he will fight back?

Those who are watching the developments in Umno will know soon enough. However, given the strength of Mahathir's sinister character and Najib's weak indecisivness, few believe Najib can do much to scare Mahathir. That would be like a kitten trying to take on a wolf.

At the most, it might buy the PM and his wife Rosmah Mansor a few more months in power, allowing them to make a more advantageous and graceful exit. Instead of relinquishing the premiership before GE13 as Mahathir and Muhyiddin are said to have demanded, Najib might get to lead Umno-BN into GE13 before stepping down as Umno president at the party's internal election due to be held later in 2013.

Mahathir conducted a purge of Umno, BN candidates



Mahathir is not an easy man to cross and few have survived doing so. His most successful opponent remains his chief thorn in the flesh - Anwar Ibrahim. Not Najib. For now until GE13, Mahathir may continue to say good things about Najib but this can change anytime. Author Barry Wain did not call Mahathir a maverick for nothing. Mahathir is indeed the power behind the throne and all eyes are now on the 87-year-old as he twists and turns to keep his grip on Umno and protect his family and their enormous wealth.

Upon assuming power in 1981, Mahathir decided, unilaterally, that his Bersih, Cekap dan Amanah (Clean, Efficient and Trustworthy) administration would not field undeserving candidates. Mahathir was judge, jury, and hangman in this case. No MACC or ACA for him! The candidates knew it had nothing to do with their being 'undeserving' but that this was his way of purging BN of candidates put up by his predecessors and bringing in his own faction members.

Many Umno and BN members who held party posts were not fielded as candidates in the General Election (GE) simply because they weren’t with him or he simply didn’t like their faces. To add insult to injury, they weren’t compensated with other government posts either because his aim was to finish them off politically and bury them for good. Yet, his losing candidates in party elections were not only fielded as GE candidates but were rewarded with other government positions when they lost at the party and GE levels.

Ruthless, mean, vicious, vindictive - these are all words used to describe Mahathir, and another strongman politician in Malaysia - Taib Mahmud of Sarawak.

Najib is no better than this duo. He and Rosmah are just as controversial and unpopular. But for his own self-preservation, Najib should know why he must get Mahathir and Company out of the 13th GE.

Mahathir’s regime was anything but clean, efficient and trustworthy as evident in, among others, Barry Wain’s book, “Malaysian Maverick – Mahathir Mohamad in Turbulent Times.” According Wain's research, during Mahathir's administration US$ 100billion was lost from the Malaysian treasury.

Mahathir stabbed Hussein Onn in the back and betrayed Razak



If Malaysia's third prime minister Hussein Onn, who was also Najib’s uncle, had not selected Mahathir as his Deputy Prime Minister, Malaysia would have had a different history. Hussein erroneously thought that since Mahathir was a lone ranger in politics and did not have any grassroots support, he would not be a challenge to him. Mahathir, however, being the wily Keralan that he was, managed to outmaneuver Hussein out of office in what’s seen today as virtually a coup d’etat.

This was how Mahathir repaid Abdul Razak, Najib’s father and Hussein’s brother-in-law, who brought him back to Umno after having being sacked by Tunku Abdul Rahman for being one of the three arch villains behind the May 13 race riots. The other two arch villains were Razak himself and then Selangor Menteri Besar Harun Idris who prevailed on the former to re-admit Mahathir into Umno.

The issue that Mahathir used against Hussein was the allegation that the latter’s wife was virtually running Petronas from her house. The Dap mysteriously received, now believed to be from Mahathir, documents in the post on the allegation and on Exxon allegedly stealing Malaysian oil on the high seas unknown to Petronas. Then Dap secretary-general Lim Kit Siang ended up in Court as a result of the documents as Exxon fought back with a legal suit.

The story, as it goes further, is that Mahathir had Hussein’s office completely cleared out when the Prime Minister was subsequently in London for medical attention.

He also reportedly spread rumours, in hinting at the allegations on Petronas/Exxon, that Hussein had a “terrible heart condition” and would be stepping down as Prime Minister upon his return “for health reasons”. Mahathir’s regime was a time of great rumour-mongering and all of which subsequently turned out to be true since they originated from the man himself.

It was Dap, albeit inadvertently, who helped put Mahathir in the Prime Minister’s chair.

Now, Najib has the opportunity to settle scores on behalf of Hussein, his father and Tunku and embark on a real purge of Umno and BN members he shouldn’t field as candidates. But will he rise to the occassion or is the latest MACC ploy just to negotiate better exit terms for himself and Rosmah?

If Najib had the guts ...



But if Najib could summon up the courage to launch a fight-back, then his primary purpose of bringing in MACC would be to eliminate those who are not in his camp.

This would include Muhyiddin, who is in cahoots with Mahathir to undermine him. However, MACC or no MACC, it would be difficult for Najib to drop Muhyiddin and get away with it. He would need a more complex plot and there is no enough time to get one going. However, Najib can get poetic justice by fielding only Muhyiddin from the latter’s and Mahathir’s camp.

It would not be a good idea for Najib to pack the list of BN candidates with only his people. He should include some from the Tunku, Hussein, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, Musa Hitam and Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah camps as well. This is the time for them to make a comeback and help neutralise Mahathir who never really had any grassroots support in Umno.

Mahathir survived by first pitting Musa Hitam and Tengku Razaleigh against each other not once but twice. He himself was returned unopposed. This is a feat he stage-managed. If either Musa or Razaleigh had taken on Mahathir for the Umno Presidency then, they could have beaten him.

Mahathir used everyone and betrayed them



Mahathir, having used Musa to neutralize Razaleigh – hinting that Razaleigh won’t be Deputy Prime Minister if he won -- subsequently spread rumours that the Mahathir-Musa 2M Administration would henceforth be the Mahathir Mohamad 2M Administration. Musa resigned and played into Mahathir’s hands.

Mahathir then brought in veteran Ghaffar Baba, a strong grassroots man who had the backing of Malay teachers who then formed the bulk of the Umno membership, as his Deputy Prime Minister. It was Ghaffar who helped to pull in votes for Mahathir as Umno president in the face of a combined assault by Razaleigh and Musa for the Presidency and Deputy Presidency. Even then Mahathir would not have made it had he not received the backing of votes from 30 illegal branches created by him.

As history has recorded, Mahathir used Anwar Ibrahim to 'kill' Ghaffar Baba. Subsequently, he had Anwar incarcerated on trumped-up sodomy charges because the latter realised that the former was a grave danger to Umno, the Malays and the country.

Mahathir’s past will catch up with him in the present to haunt his future. It should be evident when Najib announces the list of Umno and BN candidates for the 13th GE and the Mahathir-Muhyiddin camps find they have been left out in the cold.

Even if Najib disappoints, even if he chickens out and submits to the older man's will in exchange for more largesse, time has is running out. And it's not just for Mahathir but for the bad brand name that Umno has become thanks to selfish leaders who through the decades placed their vested interests way ahead of the party's.

It’s highly unlikely that anyone dropped from the Mahathir and Muhyiddin camps would be fielded by Pakatan Rakyat, led by Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim. If at all, Pakatan should only consider accepting candidates from the Tunku, Hussein, Badawi, Musa Hitam, Razaleigh and Najib camps who had expected to be fielded by BN but were not. The doors are fast closing even on this group. Brimming with young talent, Pakatan might not have space!

Malaysia Chronicle

Graft-check for BN candidates — Jaleel Hameed

DEC 21 — It must be the end of the world, dear sirs, if the Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman is saying that all coalition candidates for the general election must clear a corruption check.

Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today this vetting and clearing must be done by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

Excuse me for laughing, sir, but are you cracking a joke? No? You are serious about the MACC?

This agency, where witnesses or perhaps suspects, leap to their death mysteriously?

This agency, which told its Hong Kong counterpart that there is nothing suspicious about millions being sent to Umno’s Sabah chapter?

This agency, which is more interested in clearing its panel members of complicity rather than investigate where a sworn statement from a private investigator repudiating his earlier statutory declaration could mean something’s amiss?

Sir, you want the MACC to do this job? Does it even have any credibility left after three years of twiddling thumbs and fishing for small fry rather than big fishes?

When I read this morning that Datuk Johan Jaafar had proposed this idea, sir, I was wondering what confidence and optimism have possessed this veteran journalist and MACC panel member. Maybe it’s all those years of writing pro-BN material in Utusan Malaysia.

First of all, will the MACC and BN make public their asset declaration to ensure the voting public know these BN candidates are “clean”.

The graft trial of Dr Khir Toyo is a good point, sir. He was made Selangor mentri besar because he was young and “clean”, sir.

The Disneyland trips and Balinese-style residence are proof that a “clean” candidate can turn corrupt, sir.

I hope you’re not pulling our leg, sir. I want to believe that BN has changed and its candidates are “clean”. The MACC’s record is spotty at best for this but I guess they are the best that you have.

All the best in your endeavour, sir. Right now, a clean candidate from BN is as believable as the Mayan “end of the world” prediction.

* Jaleel Hameed reads The Malaysian Insider.

* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insider.

Najib Saddened By Keng Yaik's Death

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 23 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said he is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former president of Parti Gerakan Malaysia, Tun Dr Lim Keng Yaik, who died yesterday.

The Prime Minister said Dr Lim was a man of great character whose absence left the country poorer.

"In a illustrious career that spanned five decades, Tun Dr Lim proved to be an inspirational politician driven by a deep commitment to public service," he said in a statement today.

Najib said as a Cabinet minister for 22 years, Dr Lim served with distinction and played a big part in the country's transormation, helping to build a stable and properous society.

"All Malaysians owe him a debt of gratitude. Tun Dr Lim was not just a great leader, but a great Malaysian.

"He was a fighter to the end and we will miss him. Our thoughts now are with his family and close friends," he said.

Dr Lim died at his residence at the Tropicana Country Resort, Petaling Jaya at 4.45pm yesterday.

He was 73.

He is survived by his wife, Toh Puan Wong Yoon Chuan and three children.

Mayan Calendar Never Meant To Show End Of The World, Historians Say

The Mayan calendar is a hieroglyphic laden artifact that “ends” on December 21, but experts in the ancient culture said that Mayans never meant that to mean the end of the world was coming.

Time was measured differently on the Mayan calendar than it is today, counting individual days.

“That’s somewhat different from our own calendar, which is really tied to the length of the solar year,” Walter Witschey, an archaeologist and Maya expert at Longwood University in Virginia, told LiveScience.

The Mayans actually used three different calendars. Their sacred calendar, or Tzolk’in, lasted 260 days and then started over again, sort of like the modern 365-day calendar. It was used for scheduling religious ceremonies.

Another Mayan calendar was known as the Haab’, or secular calendar. This one lasted 365 days but didn’t take into account leap years for the extra time the earth revolves around the sun, so the seasons gradually shifted under this calendar.

The Mayan calendar that’s spurred talks of an apocalypse is the Long Count Calender. This measures in major cycles, the last of which ends approximately on December 21.

The Mayans themselves didn’t believe the end of their calendar meant an apocalypse was near, LiveScience notes. In fact, the only two drawing ever found about the end of the Mayan calender showed contemporary kings being remembered far into the future. Much of the hype around the so-called Mayan apocalypse came not from a misunderstanding about the Mayan calender but the desire of conspiracy theorists and marketers to take on the popularity of end-of-the-world predictions, CBS News noted.

“All week I’ve been telling people, ‘Don’t quit your day job. For God’s sake, pay your rent and do your laundry.’ The thing is Mayans never made this prophesy,” author Michio Kaku, a physics professor at the City University of New York and expert on the Mayan calendar. “This was hijacked. Hijacked by a doomsday machine that every 10 years, sells books, does TV specials propagating these things. Remember Y2K? Every 10 years … This a cash cow unfortunately.”
Read more at http://www.inquisitr.com/449572/mayan-calendar-never-meant-to-show-end-of-the-world-historians-say/#ur4RXqYf6e9xcMDB.99

"Tak berganjak selagi tak jumpa Isa"

'MACC statement does not clear lawyer Cecil'

Enforce 100% ban on meat and alcohol in Pandharpur or face agitation : HJS

Nagpur (Maharashtra) : While the case of sale of animals of cow lineage to butchers by Shri Viththal-Rukmini temple managing committee of the government is still fresh in mind, the President of Pandharpur Municipal Council has encroached on the faith of Hindus by requesting Home Minister, Mr. R. R. Patil, for the government grant of Rs. 60 lakhs to build an advanced slaughterhouse in Pandharpur itself. The implementation of Act to ban the cow-slaughter in the state is essential, but similarly, the government should also reject the request for building a slaughterhouse in Pandharpur, and Pandharpur should be made 100% free of meat and alcohol on the lines of other places of pilgrim such as Haridwar and Rushikesh. Otherwise, an agitation will be conducted to meet these demands. This was declared by Hindu Janajagruti Samiti and Rashtriya Warkari Sena in a press conference arranged on behalf of these 2 organisations.

Presently, the slaughter of cow lineage is going on in a large proportion, in the nation along with the state. The Union government has not yet given consent to implement the Act to ban the cow-slaughter. In such a situation, to demolish the conspiracy to discolour the water of pious Chandrabhaga river with the blood by building slaughterhouse, Warkari and devout Hindus have shown their preparedness. The government should also reject the request for building a slaughterhouse in Pandharpur, and Pandharpur should be made 100% free of meat and alcohol on the lines of other places of pilgrim such as Haridwar and Rushikesh. The government, which takes progressive step like banning Gutkha to keep young generation free from addition, should also take this next progressive step. Otherwise, we will perform Kirtan (Devotional songs) with Tal-Mrudung (Cymbals and drums) in front of every ‘permit room’. This warning was issued by Hindu Janajagruti Samiti and Rashtriya Warkari Sena.

Despite the presence of Tribal Develoment Minister, Mr. Babanrao Pachpute of NCP, who himself claims to be a Warkari, Guardian Minister of Solapur District, Mr. Lakshamanrao Dhobale and other Miinisters in power, such kinds of conspiracies are being hatched. Warkaris will seriously think as to who is really behind all these conspiracies. The direction of future agitations will be decided on considering above facts.

Conspiracy to finish Warkari sect ! – H. B. P. Rameshwar Maharaj Shastri

We are strongly opposed to build a slaughterhouse in Pandharpur. This conspiracy has been intentionally hatched by the government. This conspiracy is hatched to denigrate the sanctity of this pious place and thus, finish the Warkari sect. Those, who tried to incite Warkari sect have themselves been finished. If a slaughterhouse has been built here, the government will be the first to be butchered in it. Such was reaction of H. B. P. Rameshwar Maharaj Shastri while talking with the reporter of ‘Sanatan Prabhat’.

Conspiracy to build a slaughterhouse will be strongly opposed ! - H. B. P. Prakash Maharaj Javanjal

President of Maharashtra Warkari Mahamandal H. B. P. Prakash Maharaj Javanjal said, ‘Firstly, I strongly protest the conspiracy to build a slaughterhouse in Pandharpur. All Warkaris will unite to strongly oppose this conspiracy and will not let slaughterhouse be built.

UN Urges Indonesia, Nations to Ban Female Genital Mutilation

United Nations. The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on Thursday urging countries to ban female genital mutilation, calling it an “irreparable, irreversible abuse” that threatens about three million girls annually.

The resolution, which is not legally binding, asks the 193 UN members to “take all necessary measures, including enacting and enforcing legislation to prohibit female genital mutilations and to protect women and girls from this form of violence.”

The World Health Organization estimates that about 140 million girls and women have undergone female genital mutilation. Campaigners liken the psychological effects of female genital mutilation to those of rape.

Female genital mutilation — the partial or total removal of external female genitalia — is prevalent in 28 African countries and parts of the Middle East and Asia, notably Yemen, Iraqi Kurdistan and Indonesia.

It is carried out for cultural, religious and social reasons and is also known as female circumcision.

Female genital mutilation is also found in industrialized countries among some immigrant populations. Countries where the practice is near universal include Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea, Djibouti, Egypt, Sierra Leone, Mali and Guinea.

The resolution, which was adopted by consensus, also expressed concern about “evidence of an increase in the incidence of female genital mutilations being carried out by medical personnel in all regions in which they are practiced.”

“This practice, justified on false pretenses by supposed cultural and religious tenets, remains a taboo subject, misunderstood and misinterpreted in several societies,” Burkina Faso’s UN Ambassador Der Kogda told the General Assembly. Burkina Faso has led the move to try and stamp out the practice.

“We need to break the silence that has surrounded FGM [female genital mutilation]... and move towards its elimination,” Kogda said.

Some practitioners believe female genital mutilation will prevent sex before marriage and promiscuity afterwards; others say it is part of preparing a girl for womanhood and is hygienic. Opponents say it can also cause bleeding, shock, cysts and infertility, as well as severe psychological effects.

Below are some facts about FGM:

* An estimated 100 to 140 million girls and women worldwide have been subjected to FGM. In Africa alone, it is thought that three million girls may undergo FGM every year.

* FGM is prevalent in 28 African countries and parts of the Middle East and Asia, notably Yemen, Iraqi Kurdistan and Indonesia. It is also found in industrialized countries among some immigrant populations. Countries where the practice is near universal include Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea, Djibouti, Egypt, Sierra Leone, Mali and Guinea.

* There are several types of FGM. The most serious is called infibulation and involves the partial or total removal of the genitalia and stitching/narrowing of the vaginal opening. Clitoridectomy is the partial/total removal of the clitoris and/or hood. Excision is the partial/total removal of the clitoris and labia. FGM also includes all other harmful practices to the genitalia like pricking, piercing, scraping and cauterizing.

* FGM is mostly carried out between infancy and 15. The procedure is arranged by the women in the family.

* It is usually performed by traditional cutters who may use anything from razor blades to scissors, broken glass or tin can lids. However there is an increasing trend in some countries like Indonesia for hospitals to perform FGM.

* FGM is found among Muslim and Christian communities. It is also practiced by followers of some indigenous religions. People often believe FGM is required by religion, but it is not mentioned in the Koran or any other religious text.

* Reasons for carrying out FGM vary. Some communities believe it preserves a girl’s virginity, prevents promiscuity after marriage and increases male sexual pleasure. Parents say it is an act of love because it purifies the girl, brings her status and prepares her for marriage. It is also mistakenly believed to enhance fertility and make childbirth safer for the baby.

* FGM can cause severe bleeding, pain, shock, recurrent urinary tract infections, cysts and infertility. It increases the risk of labor complications and newborn deaths. The procedure itself can prove fatal.

* A recent study in Iraq found girls who had had FGM were more prone to post-traumatic stress disorders, depression and other psychological disturbances than girls who hadn’t. Campaigners liken the psychological effects to those suffered by rape victims. The silence surrounding FGM may also compound the girl’s sense of isolation.

* FGM has been banned by 20 of the 28 FGM-practicing countries in Africa as well as many industrialized countries. But enforcement of the law is usually weak and prosecutions are rare.

* FGM violates a plethora of international treaties which many FGM-practicing countries have agreed to. These include the U.N. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Maputo Protocol on women’s rights adopted by the African Union.

Reuters

Brother of Osama Bin Laden to Produce $1 Billion Movie on Prophet Mohammed

by THE GLOBAL MUSLIM BROTHERHOOD DAILY REPORT
Gulf media are reporting that a Doha-based company owned by a brother of Osama Bin Laden is producing a $1 billion dollar movie on the life and teachings of the Prophet Mohammad. According to the Gulf News report, Global Muslim Brotherhood leader Youssef Qaradawi is serving as an advisor to the film:

December 19, 2012 A $1 billion epic movie on the life and teachings of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) is set to be produced by Doha-based Al Noor Holding. The media company said that the movie endorsed by Islamic scholars, including Yusuf Al Qaradawi, the Chairman of the International Union of Muslim Scholars, would be in seven parts and would be produced according to the highest international standards using the most sophisticated technical and audio-visual systems. The company on Monday said that the team of experts has finished writing the scenario after overcoming a series of artistic and dramatic challenges. The approval of leading Muslim scholars was necessary for the company to move ahead with the movie production. ‘We are aware of the fact that this (film) is a difficult and a challenging task,' Al Noor Holding said in September. ‘This is why we have consulted many famous Islamic scholars, among them Dr Al Qaradawi, who will guide us on the Sharia aspect of the film.' Under strict Islamic laws, prophets cannot be depicted on screen or in print and the movie will be no exception. However, his companions will appear in the movie screen, in a decision that breaks with long-held views that their status among Muslims does not allow their depiction or embodiment on screen either. At the media opportunity in Doha on Monday, Al Qaradawi said that he conducted his own research and that he consulted with 30 senior scholars on showing the Prophet's companions in a movie. ‘Following the studies and the consultations, I have come to the conclusion that there was nothing wrong with showing the companions in dramatic work,' he said. ‘I used to oppose the idea as we have formed our own cognitive image and characterization of the prophets and companions and that we should not distort them with human images. However, following long researches and studies, I realised that we have been excessive in our approach and that there is no text or reference in the Quran or in the Prophet's Tradition and Sayings that does not allow it,' he said in remarks published by Qatari daily Al Sharq on Tuesday.

'MACC statement does not clear lawyer Cecil'

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission's statement that senior lawyer Cecil Abraham was not involved in closing investigations into ex-private investigator P Balasubramaniam is not sufficient to clear him of allegations of involvement in the drafting of Bala's second statutory declaration.

MACC operations review chairperson Hadenan Abdul Jalil's statement yesterday shows that the anti-graft body is "more concerned with defending its decision (to close the case)" rather than to investigate a wrongdoing, PKR vice-president Tian Chua (left) told a press conference today.

"Why is MACC so quickly coming up to deny things, especially since Cecil is sitting on the (operations review) panel? It's not good enough to issue a statement to say he was not involved (in closing the case).

"(It) doesn't mean that the whole issue of the falsification of an SD does not exist. This has been corroborated by at least two individuals," Tian Chua said, referring to Bala and carpet trader Deepak Jaikishan,

Instead of washing the panel's hands off the matter, he added, the MACC and the police should reopen investigations into possible offences, including "the making of a false statutory declaration, perjury, kidnap, extortion, bribery, corrupt practices, murder and the attempted covering-up of such offences".
These, he said, included Sections 107 and 120A of the Penal Code and Section 191 of the Statutory Declaration Act 1960.

Malaysiakini has contacted Cecil by way of fax, email and a letter by hand, and is awaiting his reply.
‘PM and Rosmah not on the list’

Besides Bala and Deepak, Tian Chua said, the authorites should immediately record the statements of Cecil, the prime minister’s brother Nazim Abdul Razak and lawyer Arulampalam.

Arulampalam was photographed by Bernama accompanying Bala at the press conference to reveal the second statutory declaration.

Tian Chua said this was because the five people had material contact with Bala and Deepak in relation to the signing of the second statutory declaration.

Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and his wife Rosmah Mansor are not included in the list, he said, as they were “not materially present in these meetings”.

“Whether Nazim came on behalf of Najib, or whether Rosmah met Deepak, we don’t know... Let's leave (the PM and his wife) alone first, we don’t want to defame the PM unnecessarily.

“What we want to know is whether Deepak really defamed the PM by making up these stories, and how these stories coincide with Bala's statement. We need the police to investigate,” Tian Chua said.

On claims that Deepak was paid by the opposition to make such claims, he said this was precisely the reason that the police should investigate.

Deepak sex video ‘not of concern’

He added that claims that a sex video involving Deepak would materialise soon “are not of our concern” as it is not up to “media, politicians or bloggers” to determine the credibilty of Deepak’s claims or his character.

Pro-establishment websites, including Mynewshub, have claimed that a sex video involving Deepak and a “Malay-looking lady” will circulate on the Internet soon.

Asked if the police were perhaps waiting for a report to be lodged by the prime minister himself, he said: “The DAP has lodged a police report against Deepak and PKR Youth, too, has lodged one on the issue. These are known facts.

“If what Bala and Deepak said are untrue, these two should be probed for attempting to criminally defame the PM and his wife,” he said.

Tian Chua added that the fact that Najib had sworn on the Quran to say that he has never met murdered Mongolian Altantuya Shaariibuu does not negate the need for an investigation into the conflicting statutory declarations.

Also at the press conference was PKR treasurer and Selayang MP William Leong and PKR's Sungai Petani MP Johari Abdul, who said that the integrity of both the MACC and the police are now on the line.