Tuesday, 4 March 2014
'More beautiful than women, horses and all other animals': Welcome to the Arab beauty contest where million-dollar CAMELS with false eyelashes and lip filler compete for huge prizes
- Visitors trek across desert for lavish event in Liwa, United Arab Emirates
- Men happily declare they prefer camels to their wives - and all other women
- Prize camels can change hands for as much as £1.8million at all-male event
- Festival also features camel races and milking competitions
Thousands of men leer on, playboys skid around outside in expensive cars, and top models command fees reaching into the millions as part of the biggest beauty contest this side of Dubai.
But, unlike most pageants, it is not women on display but camels - a situation which suits the exclusively male attendees just fine.
Visitors to this sprawling event held annually in Liwa, United Arab Emirates, happily admit that they consider the winning camels - which change hands for almost £2million each - more beautiful than their wives, and indeed any other woman.
'Sexy, yeah?': One of the prize camels poses for the cameras in the United Arab Emirates
ISLAM'S FINAL VERDICT ON MS.WORLD PAGEANT :IT IS "WORST THAN BUYING AND SELLING SLAVES" AND IS A FORM OF "HONOR KILLING OF WOMEN"
Miss World demeans women.
Since the premiere held in 1951 in the United States, a competition for the World Beauty Queen (Miss World) got a response in many areas.However, the event is organized by the Miss World Foundation was also condemnation and rejection by various communities in different parts of the world.
Not least in the Middle East. female human rights activists in Iraq, for example, considered that this kind of event is a form of honor killings of women. Wave rejection came from the Muslim community. In Iraq, the Islamic militant group in 2006 threatened to kill Miss World Iraq, concerned ultimately forced to flee to Jordan. pros and cons
In 2002 Miss World haunts Nigeria to cause physical violence. Nasr al-Islam group hunt down a local journalist named Daniel Asyoma. 's due to an article in the local media were very hurt Muslims. In the article, the reporter wrote, if Prophet Muhammad was still alive, would undoubtedly approve of this event. "It could be also marry one of the contestants," wrote Asyoma who then fled to the outside Nigeria.
.So, what are the views of fatwa institutions in Muslim-majority countries related to Miss World? The fatwa institutions agreed that Muslims should not organize and participate, either as facilitators, participants, or cheerleaders in contests that emphasize the beautiful face.
View as presented by Dar al-Ifta of Egypt, Saudi Arabia's Council of Senior Ulema, al Assembly Palestine-Ifta, the fatwa and each institution in Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Syria, Tunisia, and Morocco.
According to Sheikh Hisamuddin Affanah, this contest is contrary to the principles and values of Islam, as well as the form of imitation of the Western culture. The event has the potential to degrade women. Beautiful face and body used as a medium of propaganda and promotion. "It's worse than buying and selling slaves," he said.
BUT KILLING WOMEN FOR HONOR BY STONING,MARRYING AND RAPING LITTLE GIRLS ETC.ETC.ETC, IS NOT AGAINST "PRINCIPALS AND VALUES OF ISLAM".
SOURCE PLEASE USE GOOGLE TRANSLATE http://www.republika.co.id/berita/dunia-islam/fatwa/14/03/01/n1raxd-fatwa-tentang-miss-world-di-dunia-islam-1
Air quality in six locations in Klang Valley and Perak record unhealthy levels
Six locations in the Klang Valley, Putrajaya and Perak recorded unhealthy air quality this evening.Air quality continued to deteriorate in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya as air pollutant index (API) for Cheras and the administrative capital registered a reading of 105 and 110, respectively, as at 5pm today.
Port Klang, which had consistently recorded unhealthy readings today, recorded 131 while Banting was at 117.
Outside the Klang Valley, air quality in Seri Manjung registered 107 while Kg Air Putih in Taiping recorded an API of 102.
Petaling Jaya and Shah Alam are hovering near unhealthy levels, at 95 and 98 respectively while Batu Muda in Kuala Lumpur recorded a reading of 91.
An API reading of between 0 and 50 is considered good; 51 to 100, moderate; 101 to 200, unhealthy; 201 to 300, very unhealthy; and 301 and above, hazardous according to the Department of Environment.
In a Bernama report last week, Malaysian Meteorological Department (JMM) director-general Datuk Che Gayah Ismail said the current air quality had no links with the eruption of Mount Sinabung in North Sumatera, Indonesia or other outside factors.
Instead, the unhealthy readings have been traced back to domestic sources such as smoke from forest fires, factories, vehicle emissions and the open burning of land.
The hot and dry weather, without any rainfall for several days, had only made the situation worse, Che Gayah had said.
Earlier today, the authorities carried out cloud seeding which saw slight rain in various parts of the Klang Valley. – March 3, 2014.
MIC man challenges Waytha to contest in Kajang
The former deputy minister can use the by-election to prove that he still commands support of the Malaysian Indian community, says its youth chief.PETALING JAYA: A MIC leader today challenged former deputy minister in the Prime Minister’s Department P Waythamoorthy to contest the Kajang by-election to prove that he still has the support of the Malaysian Indian community.
“Instead of sitting in his office and issuing press statements targeting Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak and MIC, he should make a comeback as a politician and contest the Kajang by-election,” said former MIC Youth information chief S Subramaniam.
He said the by-election would be the best opportunity for Waythamoorthy to prove that he indeed had the support of the two million strong Malaysian Indian community.
“He wants to champion the cause of the community. It would be better if he contested in the Kajang state seat by-election. Although it would be an uphill battle for him to win the seat, at least he will know how many of the 4,000 Indian voters in Kajang support him.
“I challenge him to get at least 50% of the Indian votes. This will prove that he is indeed an Indian leader acknowledged by the community. Otherwise he should just zip up because he threw away an golden opportunity to serve the community as a deputy minister.
“He did a disservice to the community by resigning as deputy minister. He thought he would become a hero with the resignation but he was wrong. His action backfired. Now he is struggling to find a platform to say whatever he wants,” said Subramaniam.
He said if Waythamoothy can muster more than 2,000 Indian votes in Kajang, “I would personally support him to raise Indian related issues to the government.”
Three days to accept challenge
Subramaniam said anyone can claim that they had the peoples’ support but the most important thing is to prove it.
“We give him three days to accept the challenge. If he fails to stand up to this challenge then he should stop his mini-serial of issuing press statements every day,” added Subramaniam.
The MIC man also wanted Waythamoorthy to answer three questions before running down the government and MIC.
“Firstly, what is the status of the class action suit against the United Kingdom government in the Royal Court of Justice in London for US$4trillion (US$1million for every Malaysian Indian)?” he asked about the suit filed by Waythamoorthy on Aug 31, 2007.
In the suit, Waythamoothy on behalf of Hindraf, wanted United Kingdom to pay each Indian family in Malaysia RM1 million for bringing their ancestors from India to work in Malaysia about 100 years ago.
“Secondly, Waythamoorthy must unveil details of how much government funds he received and how he spent it while he was a deputy minister,” he added.
Subramaniam said Waythamoorthy must also answer queries as to the fate of RM800,000 banked into the Hindraf account in 2007.
A Malay’s perspective on HINDRAF’s plight
Firdaus Alam, a former estate boy
I have been following the HINDRAF movement for some time since pre GE12. They have risen against the tide of Malaysian politics to address various issues ranging from statelessness, education, employment, institutionalized discrimination, forceful religion conversion etc.
In the beginning after their rally in 2007, like many Malays, I was upset with their allegation that the Malaysian Indians have been treated unfairly in Malaysia.
Do the Indians hate the Malays? Impossible!!!
Malays have a closer cultural affinity to Indian Malaysians than to Chinese Malaysians, to be honest. Well, from my point of view anyway. Malays don’t have any qualms eating at an Indian restaurant, but do you see many Malays eating at Chinese restaurants? So from a Malay man’s perspective, I was confused with the statement from Hindraf that the Malays are marginalizing and discriminating the Indians.
Then there was the allegation by the Malay media spin doctors that they were connected to LTTE and therefore are aggressive towards the government to create havoc in a stable country like ours.
As I started reading more of HINDRAF since their rally, I began to understand their movement better. I found out that they had sent over 3,000 memorandums to the government on the plight of the poor Indians prior to their rally which was to no avail.
Then they did an eye catching act by initiating the law suit in Britain to catch the attention of the government as it had spread like wild fire in the international scene.
This is when I realized that they were seeking attention to address the issues that the Indians appear to be hoodwinked or sidetracked due to political interests and are not, per se, against the Malay community.
As usual the Indian parties within the BN coalition discarded them as a nuisance and the government followed suit by further sidelining them without even listening to their plight.
As a 50 something Malay who grew up in the estates during the 60′s & 70′s, I have many friends from the estates. Although I was from a poor family, with the assistance of the government I was able to move myself up the ladder to a comfortable position today.
In retrospective of my yesteryears, I began to enquire about some of my Indian friends from the estate. Many had dropped out after Form 3 & Form 5 without continuing their education due to their parents’ financial (dis)ability although I must admit some of them were indeed cleverer than I. Even the Tamil school in my estate looks the same as it was 40 years ago.
After the HINDRAF leader resigned from his position, I had the opportunity to go through their MOU with BN and noted that their demands seeking to streamline the statelessness issues affecting the displaced estate workers, their well-being, increasing educational opportunities as well as employment and business opportunities appear to be a fair demand for them.
Oh, yes!!! I always have a favorite tag line amongst my Malay friends, “Nothing wrong with the Indians, look at AK and TF. They are symbols of Indian success in the country”.
Actually, I used to argue with my friends that they are only looking at it in a superficial manner because it is obvious Hindraf is fighting for the poor Indians, not the urban, educated, middle class or rich Indians and similar ones in other races but the bottom 60- 65% who live in small towns, rural areas.
Another indicator that I always reflect on is the number of Indian beggars, homeless ones, suicidal rate and the increase in gangsterism amongst the Indians compared to the 70′s & 80′s. Why is there such a sharp increase over the last 30 years? Do we even question this or rather conveniently ignore it?
I believe it is these Malaysians that Hindraf fights for when the other communities contemptuously shun them as a societal sore even when they are Malaysians!
Another spin that has been created by the Malay media is that the Indians are encroaching into the rights of the Malays. I think this is bullshit. I think what the Indians are seeking is a piece of the cake in the nation – not the whole cake; therefore, the other stakeholders like the Malay and Chinese need to understand their plight and work with them to address it.
Obviously, the Indian political parties in BN are ineffective as they had let this segment of our community slide down the scale in the development of the nation.
Now, after the resignation of the HINDRAF bloke from the government, it appears that the Malay media has gone on spin again. I fail to see why the Malay media is trying so hard to influence the Malay readership when reasonable and sensible Malays in the street are aware of the problems faced by the Malaysian Indians.
In all fairness, I think the request made by HINDRAF to lift our fellow Malaysian Indians is a fair one.
The Malay politicians in this country need to come to their senses and think more objectively rather than playing politics in protecting their useless allies by running away from their responsibilities to ensure the well-being of the Malaysian Indians who also happen to be our brethren.
As for my Malay folks out there, many of us came from a rural settings and have been fortunate that the system has been helpful for us to progress in our lives. It is about time for us to view things beyond just fluttering the eyelids and acknowledge that something needs to be done to improve the state of the Displaced Estate Workers and their generations.
Thank you.
Rise of religious classes in public schools questioned
(Sydney Morning Herald) – Segregating children based on religious faith, or for other classes, has detrimental effects and is at odds with the inclusive philosophy of public education.Hindu, Buddhist and Islamic scripture classes are growing rapidly in NSW public schools, and students are on waiting lists for the popular ethics classes.
But as the popularity of the religious and ethics classes grows, some academics argue that segregating children based on religious faith, or for other classes, has detrimental effects and is at odds with the inclusive philosophy of public education.
Ethics classes, which started in 2011, had about 13,000 students this year, up from 8000 12 months ago.
About 250,000 students in NSW public schools get Christian religious education, with the largest providers coming from Catholic and Anglican churches.
The NSW Islamic scripture program teaches more than 22,000 Muslim students, up from 17,000 at the end of 2010. The number of students taking Hindu dharma classes has doubled in the past five years and is fast approaching 10,000. Judaism classes are attended by 2700 students.
Southern Cross University sociology of religion expert Cathy Byrne says segregation on religious grounds is outdated, inappropriate and educationally unsound.
”International research has shown children learn best about these ideas when they are given the opportunity to dialogue with others of their own age,” she said.
Dr Byrne said ethics classes have ”a fine and worthy intention” but ”even if you have a school that has ethics volunteers, you can still get the outrageous distribution of inappropriate fundamentalist and proselytising material”, she said.
Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/national/education/rise-of-religious-classes-in-public-schools-questioned-20140301-33sq6.html#ixzz2uraQW7jp
Yes, Ally Hazran Hashim and Siti Kassim are among the unsung heroes and heroines of Malaysia and I welcome the public to pinpoint and identity more “unsung heroes” out to save Malaysia from the voices and forces of hate, bigotry and intolerance
By Lim Kit Siang,
On Saturday (1st March) I issued a statement calling on Malaysians to pay tribute to ordinary Malaysians who are the country’s unsung heroes who dare to stand up for a better Malaysia whether in terms of a better education system, clean elections or inter-religious harmony, for they are the salt of the earth who will ensure that Malaysia will achieve her greatness instead of becoming a failed state.
I named three persons, viz:
· *Mohd Nor Izzat Mohd Johari, the head of Suara Guru Masyarakat Malaysia (SGMM), who is facing mean, petty and punitive persecution although he had rendered great national service in spearheading the protest against the woes of the badly-planned and poorly-conceived student-based assessment (SBA) system; and
· *Royal Malaysian Air Force pilot Major Zaidi Ahmad who is facing court martial for his patriotic duty of speaking up about the indelible ink fiasco in the recent 13th General Elections; and
· *Azrul Mohd Khalib, social activist, who led a Malaysians for Malaysia group to spearhead a “Walk for Peace” movement among ordinary Malaysians who care about the country to push for national healing in the face of the worst racial and religious polarization in the nation’s 56-year history.
On my Facebook on the statement, Linda Chong wrote:
“Mr Lim Kit Siang, I think U have left out Ally Hazran Hashim in his role in meeting up with fellow christians in a Kajang church lately…please check this up.”
I checked up and I agree with Linda that Ally Hazran Hashim qualify to be among the unsung heroes who are making unusual efforts to help make a better Malaysia.
A Star article dated Feb. 9, 2014, entitled “Moderate Muslims fight back for multifaith Malaysia” by Hariati Azizan chronicled Ally’s great deed and is commendable reading by all Malaysians who want a better Malaysia.
This is from the Star article:
In the spirit of the World Interfaith Harmony Week, some Malaysians are seeking to promote diversity, peace and understanding.
WHILE some irresponsible groups have been swamping churches with banners and messages of hate, training consultant Ally Hazran Hashim, 47, decided to rally some friends to gather at his hometown church, the Holy Family Church in Kajang, with flowers, oranges and messages of love last Sunday.
This small act of compassion and harmony is exactly what the country needs amid the religious and racial tension that remains unabated.
“It was basically to show the Christians in Kajang that not all Muslims are against them. I also wanted to create awareness for all Muslims that such acts of love sharing will bring respect to our faith, Islam. Islam means peace and we represent the true Muslim believers who want peace, love and unity among all Malaysians regardless of race and religion.”
Like many, Ally is disheartened by the actions of certain groups who have been fanning racial tension in the country.
“It has prompted me to do something that will bring the focus back to unity. I really believe Malaysia as a multiracial community loves peace. It is only a few who are creating or being used to create disharmony.”
Driven by his dream of unity, Ally wasted no time in meeting Father George Harrison about organising the “Love & Peace Offering”. As soon as Father Harrison agreed, he posted a shout-out on Facebook.
“I was touched by the response I got. Some people from Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya also gave their support and said they would join me.
“I was amazed with more than 15,000 likes from other FB members and groups, and well-wishes from many Muslims from all over Malaysia. I even got a message from Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir who couldn’t join us in Kajang as she was in London during that time. That was a real motivation for me to go forward with the event.”
To his delight, he adds, a group from a Hindu temple also said they were interested in joining him.
Ally admits he has been a moderate Muslim from young.
“My personal conviction and my upbringing was always to respect other religions, and as my mother used to say: ‘Never condemn others because it is as if you are condemning your Creator himself.’ That is what I have always believed in and hold on to till today,” he says.
Fear of reproach and criticism did not enter his mind even once.
“I only wanted to go back to the basics and remind people that God created us all as human beings and the purpose of the Creator is to see everyone living peacefully, loving one another, sharing and understanding and respecting each other.
“Anyway, when God is with me, why should I be afraid of human beings? I am sharing peace, which is Islam’s true meaning, with people of other faiths. I don’t see anything wrong in preaching our faith through a simple gesture of a love offering. Let this be a sign for those who are against the true teaching to repent and understand what Islam really means.”
Still, although he believes moderation is the right path to take (“Moderation always wins … Islam speaks of moderation,” he says), Ally feels there are times when a strong stand is needed to maintain peace.
“This is where I feel the authorities have failed, because they have not taken stern action against those who try to provoke and create unrest among races in Malaysia.
“The extremists must be brought to the court of law so that it will deter others from creating chaos and putting fear among peace-loving Malaysians.”
Ally says he has lodged various police reports against Man Namblast and Mohd Hidayat who insulted Thaipusam on Facebook, the petrol bombing at Penang’s St Assumption Church, and also the May 13 demonstration by some Malay NGOs in Seberang Prai.
“I hope action will be taken against them. I have also written to our top leaders and the religious leaders to ask them to put a stop to this racial and religious instigation.”
With some friends, the human behavioural physiologist who runs a training consultancy firm in Kajang is working to organise more interfaith gatherings, beginning with a visit to a few places of worship in Brickfields on Feb 23.
“My humble wish is that everyone will start the ball rolling in their own states too.”
His mega plan, however, is to organise a gathering of all faiths in Kajang soon, he says.
“Kajang can be the starting point of unity and peace sharing among Malaysians of all religions… let the Kajang candle light up Malaysian unity. Watch my Facebook space under the name Ally Hashim Hazran and join us.”
The label “moderate Muslim” makes her uncomfortable but lawyer Siti Kasim did not have to think hard about which side she is on when it comes to “extremist” Muslims.
“I have been following closely the development on the way our country is moving towards the ‘Talibanisation’ way of life. The issue of the banned words generally and the usage of the Allah word specifically is the icing on the cake. I can see the situation getting from bad to worse,” says Siti, who was one of the people who organised the visit to the Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Klang last month to help defuse the brewing religious tension in the country.
Very much a believer that her faith is between her and God, Siti says the attitude and behaviour of the noisy “extreme” groups riled her up so much that she was determined to make her stand on the issue.
“I feel my country has been hijacked by extremists who have a very narrow view of what Islam is. I feel these people are insulting me and other Malays, as if we don’t have our own brain to think.
“These so-called defenders of Islam and Malay rights act as if they are representing Islam and all Malays. Every time I read the news, my heart rate goes up another notch.”
When she talked to her friends, she realised they felt the same way. “We felt we must do something. So we agreed to go to the Klang church to show solidarity with our Christians friends. I wanted to get other friends to join me, so I set up an event page on Facebook and sent invitations to everyone on my Friends’ list.
My other friends had the same idea and they started to use the event page to get their own friends on board, and it just went viral from there.”
The response was astounding and 30 people turned up at the church to give out flowers to the congregation as a peace offering.
“I was surprised! We just wanted to be there to show to our Christian friends that there are other Muslims who disagreed with what was going on. We also wanted to tell these so-called Muslim NGOs that they do not speak on the behalf of all Malays and not to take us for granted,” she shares.
Siti Kasim is known for her strong voice in the human rights circle – she once chastised Lembah Pantai MP Nurul Izzah Anwar for backing down from her comment that freedom of religion is a human right for all – and this is seen in her frank words on the matter.
“The authorities seem to be endorsing these extreme groups. It seems like no one from any political divide is willing to risk their political career to do what is right. No one is willing to come forward officially to condemn their behaviour.”
Siti also says she is a strong proponent for a secular state.
“The state should be neutral. This neutrality is what is meant by secularism. It is a political principle where a secular state may be supported by religious believers and be the home of widespread religious belief.
“To me, secularism is the best guarantee for a multifaith situation. Religion will flourish under secularism. No one would be able to use religion as a political tool.”
When asked if she was worried about backlash or being reproached for her stand, Siti says, “Worried? In all honesty, I am not. I am more worried and angry at the way our country is going. I really don’t care if anyone criticises me or calls me names as I have been called a murtad many times over. I am not afraid of them as they are not God. I am only answerable to God.”
Siti calls on those who are concerned about Malaysia’s slide towards intolerance to come out and speak up.
“Show the authorities that the silent majority is no longer going to be silent. If the politicians aren’t able to do their job, we are no longer going to be quiet. More and more people are beginning to realise there is no reason to be in fear anymore. We do not have to go into battles to win the war, but speak up and stand up we must.”
Siti shares that she and her friends are not planning visits to other churches but will support other solidarity initiatives in other towns and states.
Last week, she went to support Ally’s unity initiative in Kajang.
“He contacted me to go and support him there. So I went with a few other friends. I hope there will be others, especially more Malays, who will organise the same.”
What Siti is planning is to get people out to Putrajaya on March 5 for the Leave Hearing (for the Allah case) at the Federal Court.
“I hope to show the public and the authorities that there are citizens including Malays who do not support the banning of the word Allah.”
Back to her issue of her discomfort at being called a moderate Muslim, Siti has this to say: “A Muslim is a Muslim. There are no two ways about it. The question is, which version of Islam I believe. I believe in universal goodness and compassion.
“My stand on interfaith issues is very simple. Respect. If we want other religions to respect ours, we must give the same courtesy to them too.”
From the Star report, we have uncovered another unsung heroine, lawyer Siti Kassim.
I welcome more inputs from Malaysians to pinpoint and identity the unsung heroes who are doing their patriotic duty to build a better Malaysia and not to allow the voices and forces of hate, bigotry and intolerance to destroy our multi-racial and multi-religious Malaysia.
(Media Statement in Kuala Lumpur on Monday, 3rd March 2014)
On Saturday (1st March) I issued a statement calling on Malaysians to pay tribute to ordinary Malaysians who are the country’s unsung heroes who dare to stand up for a better Malaysia whether in terms of a better education system, clean elections or inter-religious harmony, for they are the salt of the earth who will ensure that Malaysia will achieve her greatness instead of becoming a failed state.
I named three persons, viz:
· *Mohd Nor Izzat Mohd Johari, the head of Suara Guru Masyarakat Malaysia (SGMM), who is facing mean, petty and punitive persecution although he had rendered great national service in spearheading the protest against the woes of the badly-planned and poorly-conceived student-based assessment (SBA) system; and
· *Royal Malaysian Air Force pilot Major Zaidi Ahmad who is facing court martial for his patriotic duty of speaking up about the indelible ink fiasco in the recent 13th General Elections; and
· *Azrul Mohd Khalib, social activist, who led a Malaysians for Malaysia group to spearhead a “Walk for Peace” movement among ordinary Malaysians who care about the country to push for national healing in the face of the worst racial and religious polarization in the nation’s 56-year history.
On my Facebook on the statement, Linda Chong wrote:
“Mr Lim Kit Siang, I think U have left out Ally Hazran Hashim in his role in meeting up with fellow christians in a Kajang church lately…please check this up.”
I checked up and I agree with Linda that Ally Hazran Hashim qualify to be among the unsung heroes who are making unusual efforts to help make a better Malaysia.
A Star article dated Feb. 9, 2014, entitled “Moderate Muslims fight back for multifaith Malaysia” by Hariati Azizan chronicled Ally’s great deed and is commendable reading by all Malaysians who want a better Malaysia.
This is from the Star article:
In the spirit of the World Interfaith Harmony Week, some Malaysians are seeking to promote diversity, peace and understanding.
WHILE some irresponsible groups have been swamping churches with banners and messages of hate, training consultant Ally Hazran Hashim, 47, decided to rally some friends to gather at his hometown church, the Holy Family Church in Kajang, with flowers, oranges and messages of love last Sunday.
This small act of compassion and harmony is exactly what the country needs amid the religious and racial tension that remains unabated.
“It was basically to show the Christians in Kajang that not all Muslims are against them. I also wanted to create awareness for all Muslims that such acts of love sharing will bring respect to our faith, Islam. Islam means peace and we represent the true Muslim believers who want peace, love and unity among all Malaysians regardless of race and religion.”
Like many, Ally is disheartened by the actions of certain groups who have been fanning racial tension in the country.
“It has prompted me to do something that will bring the focus back to unity. I really believe Malaysia as a multiracial community loves peace. It is only a few who are creating or being used to create disharmony.”
Driven by his dream of unity, Ally wasted no time in meeting Father George Harrison about organising the “Love & Peace Offering”. As soon as Father Harrison agreed, he posted a shout-out on Facebook.
“I was touched by the response I got. Some people from Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya also gave their support and said they would join me.
“I was amazed with more than 15,000 likes from other FB members and groups, and well-wishes from many Muslims from all over Malaysia. I even got a message from Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir who couldn’t join us in Kajang as she was in London during that time. That was a real motivation for me to go forward with the event.”
To his delight, he adds, a group from a Hindu temple also said they were interested in joining him.
Ally admits he has been a moderate Muslim from young.
“My personal conviction and my upbringing was always to respect other religions, and as my mother used to say: ‘Never condemn others because it is as if you are condemning your Creator himself.’ That is what I have always believed in and hold on to till today,” he says.
Fear of reproach and criticism did not enter his mind even once.
“I only wanted to go back to the basics and remind people that God created us all as human beings and the purpose of the Creator is to see everyone living peacefully, loving one another, sharing and understanding and respecting each other.
“Anyway, when God is with me, why should I be afraid of human beings? I am sharing peace, which is Islam’s true meaning, with people of other faiths. I don’t see anything wrong in preaching our faith through a simple gesture of a love offering. Let this be a sign for those who are against the true teaching to repent and understand what Islam really means.”
Still, although he believes moderation is the right path to take (“Moderation always wins … Islam speaks of moderation,” he says), Ally feels there are times when a strong stand is needed to maintain peace.
“This is where I feel the authorities have failed, because they have not taken stern action against those who try to provoke and create unrest among races in Malaysia.
“The extremists must be brought to the court of law so that it will deter others from creating chaos and putting fear among peace-loving Malaysians.”
Ally says he has lodged various police reports against Man Namblast and Mohd Hidayat who insulted Thaipusam on Facebook, the petrol bombing at Penang’s St Assumption Church, and also the May 13 demonstration by some Malay NGOs in Seberang Prai.
“I hope action will be taken against them. I have also written to our top leaders and the religious leaders to ask them to put a stop to this racial and religious instigation.”
With some friends, the human behavioural physiologist who runs a training consultancy firm in Kajang is working to organise more interfaith gatherings, beginning with a visit to a few places of worship in Brickfields on Feb 23.
“My humble wish is that everyone will start the ball rolling in their own states too.”
His mega plan, however, is to organise a gathering of all faiths in Kajang soon, he says.
“Kajang can be the starting point of unity and peace sharing among Malaysians of all religions… let the Kajang candle light up Malaysian unity. Watch my Facebook space under the name Ally Hashim Hazran and join us.”
The label “moderate Muslim” makes her uncomfortable but lawyer Siti Kasim did not have to think hard about which side she is on when it comes to “extremist” Muslims.
“I have been following closely the development on the way our country is moving towards the ‘Talibanisation’ way of life. The issue of the banned words generally and the usage of the Allah word specifically is the icing on the cake. I can see the situation getting from bad to worse,” says Siti, who was one of the people who organised the visit to the Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Klang last month to help defuse the brewing religious tension in the country.
Very much a believer that her faith is between her and God, Siti says the attitude and behaviour of the noisy “extreme” groups riled her up so much that she was determined to make her stand on the issue.
“I feel my country has been hijacked by extremists who have a very narrow view of what Islam is. I feel these people are insulting me and other Malays, as if we don’t have our own brain to think.
“These so-called defenders of Islam and Malay rights act as if they are representing Islam and all Malays. Every time I read the news, my heart rate goes up another notch.”
When she talked to her friends, she realised they felt the same way. “We felt we must do something. So we agreed to go to the Klang church to show solidarity with our Christians friends. I wanted to get other friends to join me, so I set up an event page on Facebook and sent invitations to everyone on my Friends’ list.
My other friends had the same idea and they started to use the event page to get their own friends on board, and it just went viral from there.”
The response was astounding and 30 people turned up at the church to give out flowers to the congregation as a peace offering.
“I was surprised! We just wanted to be there to show to our Christian friends that there are other Muslims who disagreed with what was going on. We also wanted to tell these so-called Muslim NGOs that they do not speak on the behalf of all Malays and not to take us for granted,” she shares.
Siti Kasim is known for her strong voice in the human rights circle – she once chastised Lembah Pantai MP Nurul Izzah Anwar for backing down from her comment that freedom of religion is a human right for all – and this is seen in her frank words on the matter.
“The authorities seem to be endorsing these extreme groups. It seems like no one from any political divide is willing to risk their political career to do what is right. No one is willing to come forward officially to condemn their behaviour.”
Siti also says she is a strong proponent for a secular state.
“The state should be neutral. This neutrality is what is meant by secularism. It is a political principle where a secular state may be supported by religious believers and be the home of widespread religious belief.
“To me, secularism is the best guarantee for a multifaith situation. Religion will flourish under secularism. No one would be able to use religion as a political tool.”
When asked if she was worried about backlash or being reproached for her stand, Siti says, “Worried? In all honesty, I am not. I am more worried and angry at the way our country is going. I really don’t care if anyone criticises me or calls me names as I have been called a murtad many times over. I am not afraid of them as they are not God. I am only answerable to God.”
Siti calls on those who are concerned about Malaysia’s slide towards intolerance to come out and speak up.
“Show the authorities that the silent majority is no longer going to be silent. If the politicians aren’t able to do their job, we are no longer going to be quiet. More and more people are beginning to realise there is no reason to be in fear anymore. We do not have to go into battles to win the war, but speak up and stand up we must.”
Siti shares that she and her friends are not planning visits to other churches but will support other solidarity initiatives in other towns and states.
Last week, she went to support Ally’s unity initiative in Kajang.
“He contacted me to go and support him there. So I went with a few other friends. I hope there will be others, especially more Malays, who will organise the same.”
What Siti is planning is to get people out to Putrajaya on March 5 for the Leave Hearing (for the Allah case) at the Federal Court.
“I hope to show the public and the authorities that there are citizens including Malays who do not support the banning of the word Allah.”
Back to her issue of her discomfort at being called a moderate Muslim, Siti has this to say: “A Muslim is a Muslim. There are no two ways about it. The question is, which version of Islam I believe. I believe in universal goodness and compassion.
“My stand on interfaith issues is very simple. Respect. If we want other religions to respect ours, we must give the same courtesy to them too.”
From the Star report, we have uncovered another unsung heroine, lawyer Siti Kassim.
I welcome more inputs from Malaysians to pinpoint and identity the unsung heroes who are doing their patriotic duty to build a better Malaysia and not to allow the voices and forces of hate, bigotry and intolerance to destroy our multi-racial and multi-religious Malaysia.
(Media Statement in Kuala Lumpur on Monday, 3rd March 2014)
Selangor Water MoU Focuses On Implementation Of Langat 2 Project - Muhyiddin
KAJANG,
March 3 (Bernama) -- Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the memorandum of
understanding (MoU) on the restructuring of the Selangor water industry
focuses more on efforts to ensure the Langat 2 Project can be
implemented, not to raise water tariff.The Deputy Prime Minister said the MoU between the federal and Selangor governments focused more on important issues such as the date for commencing work, the acquisition of more than 75 plots of land and the appointment of the contractors.
"That (water tariff increase) I do not know, so far we are just discussing the important stage of ensuring that the problem of water shortage in the Klang Valley can be resolved immediately.
"To me, this matter is of more importance, although the question on water tariff is also important but since water management is under the purview of the state government, it's too early for me to say there is an improvement or otherwise," he told a media conference after chairing the meeting of the Barisan Nasional (BN) By-Election machinery for the Kajang state constituency at the Hulu Langat Umno office, here Monday.
He was commenting on the statement by the PKR strategic director, Rafizi Ramli, that the agreement might result in a rise in the water tariff.
Commenting on the hot weather and the haze that occurred in several states now, Muhyiddin advised the public to comply with the advice issued by the Health Ministry to ensure that they remained healthy.
Saturday, 1 March 2014
Waytha: Let Kajang be Indian referendum on BN- Malaysiakini
The proposal comes after Waythamoorthy drew flak from his former BN colleagues who dismissed his claims that the ruling coalition failed to help the Indian community.
"I now urge Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin and Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein to join forces with their 'team players', MIC, and come up with a full report of what the government has done for the Indian community over the last 20 years.
"Both Khairy and Hishammuddin are most welcome to go around with their team players to the 10 percent Indian voters in Kajang and present their case.
"This exercise, if both the ministers dare do, would give them a yardstick to gauge what they and their team players have done for the community," he said in a press statement today.
Khairy (left)
and Hishammuddin had critcised Waythamoorthy for attacking BN after
quitting the government and accused him of not being a team player when
he was deputy minister in the Prime Minister's Department.Waythamoorthy was appointed as deputy minister after throwing his support behind BN in the last general election in exchange for the ruling coalition's support of the movement's blueprint on helping the Indian community.
A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed between the two parties but Waythamoorthy resigned on Feb 10, after nine months in government, claiming BN had refused to uphold the agreement.
"Hindraf maintains its claim that the Indians in Malaysia have been marginalised from the mainstream development of the country," said Waythamoorthy.
He
said there had not been any significant allocation for the Indian
community for almost 50 years and any allocation in recent times have
only come in the form of election goodies."All the so-called allocations that had come by in the last five years (were) in piecemeal manner manned by the existing political parties without much accountability, transparency or a monitoring process, except for rhetoric whenever aelection came by.
"The whole purpose of the Hindraf MOU with BN was to ensure that a special unit is dedicated to ensure that a fair amount of funds are allocated on a targeted basis for the uplifting of the Indian poor to resolve their issues permanently," he said.
Friday, 28 February 2014
Job vacancy for 'Yes tuan' deputy minister - Malaysiakini
The posting comes in the wake of Persatuan Hindraf Malaysia chairperson P Waythamoorthy’s (left) resignation as a senator and deputy minister early this month. Among others, the advertisement stated that all “kooja thukis” (apple polishers) are encouraged to apply for the position.
It
also contained the images of several Indian Malaysian leaders such as
MIC’s M Saravanan and P Kamalanathan, who drew flak for kissing the hand
of Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin during the Hulu Selangor
by-election in 2010.Others portrayed were Malaysian Indian United Party (MIUP) chief S Nallakaruppan and Makkal Sakti Party president RS Thanenthiran.
The advertisement, posted by the Facebook user ‘Bolehland’, stated that candidates with the experience of shortchanging the Indian community would have an added advantage.
Other requirements include being a BN team player, and the applicant must be able to communicate in the BN language of “Ya Tuan” (yes, master), “Boleh Tuan” (can do, master), “Jangan takut Tuan” (Don’t be afraid, master) and “Orang India semua sokong Tuan” (All the Indians support you, master).
Aspiring candidates were told to contact ‘Najib’ if interested.
All MIC leaders qualified
The advertisement is gaining in popularity since its emergence, with hundreds sharing it with their friends.
As for the comments in cyberspace, Indian NGO leader Rajaretinam Armuggan wrote: “Kelayakan asas.... mesti sedia jadi pengkhianat kaum!!! Serta sgt suka tunduk dan cium2 dan jilat Umno... walaupun dipukul ditendang berkali2...” (Basic qualification, must be prepared to betray the race, as well as bow, kiss and lick Umno... despite being kicked repeatedly).
Another user, Sathy Vel Naidu said, “And the winner is ‘Ketta’Karuppan”. This was an obvious reference to Nallakaruppan, where the first four alphabets of his name “Nalla” means “nice or good” while “Ketta” means “bad”.
Whereas Radha Krishna Subramaniam remarked, “All MIC leaders are qualified for the job.”
'World must recognise M'sia belongs to Malays'
Islamic NGO Ikatan Muslimin Malaysia (Isma) today
demanded global recognition that Malaysia is the land of the Malays,
claiming that scientific study had proven that the Malay civilisation
was older than Angkor Wat or Borobudur.
"Like
how the world recognises that China is for Chinese, India is for
Indians, England for the English, Ireland is for the Irish, and Germany
is for Germans, surely Malays have their own land," Isma's
vice-president II Abdul Rahman Dali said in a statement today.
Claiming unspecified "scientific research", Isma said that the Malay gene has been proven to exist before that of the Chinese.
"This region, which centres at the land of the Malays, is called the Cradle of Human Civilisation, which gave birth to other ethnicities.
"So it is valid that this land belongs to the Malays originally," he said.
He also claimed a recent research showed that the Kedah Tua Malay civilisation in Lembah Bujang dates back to the 2nd century BC, thus confirming that the civilisation was older than archaeological and historical sites such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Borobudur in Indonesia.
"As such, we want the Chinese, Indians or anyone not to question the Malay position anymore. We also want the whole world to recognise Malaysia, which is known as Malaya, as the heritage and right of the Malays," Abdul Rahman said.
Isma's
statement today comes following months of increasing demands by several
Islamic and Malay rights NGOs, including Isma and Perkasa, to
strengthen Malay supremacy in the country.
The calls grew louder ever since a kangkung-themed flash mob, organised by PKR's Machang Bubok assemblyperson Lee Khai Loon, which angered such NGOs who claimed the act of stuffing the leafy vegetable into an effigy of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak was an affront to Malays and the rulers.
Racial and religious tension in the country have escalated of late, partially due to the Court of Appeal ruling in October last year that Catholic weekly The Herald is not allowed to use the word ‘Allah’ to address God in its Malay texts.
The Christian community in Malaysia, especialy those in Sabah and Sarawak, have used the term in Malay copies of the Bible for years, however, various other quarters have claimed that ‘Allah’ is exclusive to Muslims.
"Like
how the world recognises that China is for Chinese, India is for
Indians, England for the English, Ireland is for the Irish, and Germany
is for Germans, surely Malays have their own land," Isma's
vice-president II Abdul Rahman Dali said in a statement today.Claiming unspecified "scientific research", Isma said that the Malay gene has been proven to exist before that of the Chinese.
"This region, which centres at the land of the Malays, is called the Cradle of Human Civilisation, which gave birth to other ethnicities.
"So it is valid that this land belongs to the Malays originally," he said.
He also claimed a recent research showed that the Kedah Tua Malay civilisation in Lembah Bujang dates back to the 2nd century BC, thus confirming that the civilisation was older than archaeological and historical sites such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Borobudur in Indonesia.
"As such, we want the Chinese, Indians or anyone not to question the Malay position anymore. We also want the whole world to recognise Malaysia, which is known as Malaya, as the heritage and right of the Malays," Abdul Rahman said.
Isma's
statement today comes following months of increasing demands by several
Islamic and Malay rights NGOs, including Isma and Perkasa, to
strengthen Malay supremacy in the country.The calls grew louder ever since a kangkung-themed flash mob, organised by PKR's Machang Bubok assemblyperson Lee Khai Loon, which angered such NGOs who claimed the act of stuffing the leafy vegetable into an effigy of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak was an affront to Malays and the rulers.
Racial and religious tension in the country have escalated of late, partially due to the Court of Appeal ruling in October last year that Catholic weekly The Herald is not allowed to use the word ‘Allah’ to address God in its Malay texts.
The Christian community in Malaysia, especialy those in Sabah and Sarawak, have used the term in Malay copies of the Bible for years, however, various other quarters have claimed that ‘Allah’ is exclusive to Muslims.
‘Guan Eng ignoring Indians’
A coalition of NGOs in Penang made demands to Lim Guan Eng to address problems plaguing the Indian community there
GEORGE TOWN: A coalition of local NGOs here has called on the Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng to directly address Indian issues, inclusively and effectively in Penang.
Coalition of Non-Governmental Organisations and Concerned Citizens on Indian Affairs in Penang chairman N Ganesan said Lim would never find permanent solutions for fundamental Indian issues in the state by sidetracking the problems.
He also reminded Lim that it was the social responsibility of his Pakatan Rakyat administration to resolve the Indian issues.
He said Lim should firstly set aside time to hear out lay Indian public views and opinions on arising matters pertaining to the community.
Secondly, he said the Chief Minister should forge close working ties with the coalition, representing 51 Indian-based NGOs and Hindu temples in Penang, to address and resolve the issues.
He said there were fundamental problems in the manner the Indian and Hindu social, political and economic issues being handled currently by the state government.
He said these were matters for the state government to deal with, not for Lim’s administration to delegate and relegate them to peripherally related agencies to handle them.
“Currently Lim had been viewing Indian issues narrowly.
“He ignores our requests to hear our views on various issues affecting the community
“He seems not to understand the fundamental dynamism of Indian issues in Penang.
“He also does not have time for us despite us requesting a meeting with him three times,” lamented Ganesan at a press conference here today.
Also present were coalition members V Nandakumar, SV Manimaran, P Janarthan and P Asokan.
For instance, he said the issue of Hindu burial ground and crematorium in Batu Lanchang was yet to see any positive resolution because Lim had not found the time to hear the coalition’s petition.
Demands in the petition
The coalition submitted the petition to the Chief Minister’s Office this morning.
Ganesan said demands in the petition were minimum social responsibilities and costs for the state government.
Among the coalition’s demands are:
1)The current two cremation incinerators must be restored to operating conditions with the necessary statutory compliance achieved.
2)Competent personnel need to be appointed to manage, operate and maintain the facility.
3)The management of the crematorium has to be consolidated with the appointment of competent and experienced manager.
4)Independent continuous audits of the management and technical aspects need to be performed by reputable audit firms and the reports of each audit to be made public.
5)The state government needs to provide financial and other necessary resources and expertise for the request we have set forth above.
6)On successful implementation of the items above for the Batu Lanchang crematorium, it is the desire of the Indian community that another similar crematorium be set up at a suitable site on the mainland. The Indian population in the 55-95 years segment is expected to triple in 20 years’ time and much of this growth is expected to happen on the mainland.
“We are interested in achieving a sound and amicable solution to the matters.
“We have been very patient with him and had given him almost three months to respond but he responded by deflecting and ignoring our requests.
“His disregard for the seriousness of the matter and towards representatives of the Indian community of Penang is in stark contrast to his otherwise daily rhetoric of inclusiveness.
“Given this, we cannot help but conclude that the Malaysian Malaysia of DAP was nothing more than just another political perversion,” said Ganesan.
GEORGE TOWN: A coalition of local NGOs here has called on the Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng to directly address Indian issues, inclusively and effectively in Penang.Coalition of Non-Governmental Organisations and Concerned Citizens on Indian Affairs in Penang chairman N Ganesan said Lim would never find permanent solutions for fundamental Indian issues in the state by sidetracking the problems.
He also reminded Lim that it was the social responsibility of his Pakatan Rakyat administration to resolve the Indian issues.
He said Lim should firstly set aside time to hear out lay Indian public views and opinions on arising matters pertaining to the community.
Secondly, he said the Chief Minister should forge close working ties with the coalition, representing 51 Indian-based NGOs and Hindu temples in Penang, to address and resolve the issues.
He said there were fundamental problems in the manner the Indian and Hindu social, political and economic issues being handled currently by the state government.
He said these were matters for the state government to deal with, not for Lim’s administration to delegate and relegate them to peripherally related agencies to handle them.
“Currently Lim had been viewing Indian issues narrowly.
“He ignores our requests to hear our views on various issues affecting the community
“He seems not to understand the fundamental dynamism of Indian issues in Penang.
“He also does not have time for us despite us requesting a meeting with him three times,” lamented Ganesan at a press conference here today.
Also present were coalition members V Nandakumar, SV Manimaran, P Janarthan and P Asokan.
For instance, he said the issue of Hindu burial ground and crematorium in Batu Lanchang was yet to see any positive resolution because Lim had not found the time to hear the coalition’s petition.
Demands in the petition
The coalition submitted the petition to the Chief Minister’s Office this morning.
Ganesan said demands in the petition were minimum social responsibilities and costs for the state government.
Among the coalition’s demands are:
1)The current two cremation incinerators must be restored to operating conditions with the necessary statutory compliance achieved.
2)Competent personnel need to be appointed to manage, operate and maintain the facility.
3)The management of the crematorium has to be consolidated with the appointment of competent and experienced manager.
4)Independent continuous audits of the management and technical aspects need to be performed by reputable audit firms and the reports of each audit to be made public.
5)The state government needs to provide financial and other necessary resources and expertise for the request we have set forth above.
6)On successful implementation of the items above for the Batu Lanchang crematorium, it is the desire of the Indian community that another similar crematorium be set up at a suitable site on the mainland. The Indian population in the 55-95 years segment is expected to triple in 20 years’ time and much of this growth is expected to happen on the mainland.
“We are interested in achieving a sound and amicable solution to the matters.
“We have been very patient with him and had given him almost three months to respond but he responded by deflecting and ignoring our requests.
“His disregard for the seriousness of the matter and towards representatives of the Indian community of Penang is in stark contrast to his otherwise daily rhetoric of inclusiveness.
“Given this, we cannot help but conclude that the Malaysian Malaysia of DAP was nothing more than just another political perversion,” said Ganesan.
MIC hits back at Waytha
'Don't blame us for your failure,' says secretary-general Prakash RaoPETALINGJAYA: A top MIC official today chided Hindraf leader P Waythamoorthy for his remarks about the party, saying he was blaming it for his own failure as deputy minister in the Prime Minister’s Department.
MIC Secretary-General A Prakash Rao told FMT his party saw itself as part of a brotherhood in the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition.
Referring to Waythamoorthy’s recent resignation, he said the former deputy minister was too greedy and wanted to handle all government funds meant for the Indian community.
“Waythamoorthy failed to shine as deputy minister because he was a lone ranger,” he said.
“He did not even bother trying to work with MIC since the day he signed the memorandum of understanding with BN. Thus, it is not fair for him to ask MIC to leave BN.”
Yesterday, Waythamoorthy challenged MIC to leave BN, accusing it of acting as a propaganda mouthpiece for the government and ignoring issues affecting the Indian community.
In a press statement, the Hindraf chief said MIC was founded to protect the rights of Malaysian Indians, who were then mostly plantation workers, but had failed to do so.
Prakash Rao rejected the accusations. “MIC is more focused on finding solutions to our community’s problems through BN consensus,” he said. “We prefer to fight from inside to find solutions then fight from outside.”
He added that MIC had managed, through the years, to benefit the Indian community through educational and economic programmes.
He also said Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak and MIC president G Palanivel had been working closely in the past three years to finding fast-track solutions to uplift Indians economically.
“Our priority is to uplift the Indians to be on par with national development,” he said.
‘Local councils still in dire straits’
Only a portion of the 24 councillors were appointed in each local authorities in Selangor, says a coalition of NGOs
PETALING JAYA: A Selangor-based coalition of NGOs today expressed concern over the state government’s delay in appointing a full batch of local councillors across the 12 district authorities in Selangor, saying this might lead to potential policy snags.
The Coalition of Good Governance (CGG) spokesperson Jerald Joseph said despite the need to appoint 24 councillors in all the local governments by Dec 31 last year, the state has so far only appointed a portion of them.
He said for Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), only 19 of out the 24 councillors were appointed
“The whole of PJ is divided into 24 zones and each councillor is supposed to take care of one area. Now there are five zones which are not represented,” he told a press conference today.
Another NGO leader from Friends of Kota Damansara, Jeffrey Phang, claimed that some local governments were mulling over the rise in property density (plot ratio) in areas surrounding the Mass Railway Transit (MRT) project.
“This is going to have a serious impact in places like PJ, which is already very crowded. Who is going to oversee our interest ?” he asked.
Most of the local councillors in Selangor were appointed from the Pakatan Rakyat coalition parties of DAP, PKR and PAS, except a 25% quota which is supposedly reserved for the NGO members.
The appointment of councillors involves a great deal of horse-trading and political negotiations.
Jerald said while the NGO coalition places restoration of local council election as the ultimate agenda, they were concerned that even the current interim measure of having local councillors appointed by the state was not transparent.
For example, he said, the guidelines for councillors appointment was kept in the dark and the 25% quota allocated for NGO members was diluted.
“The CGG believes that this delay in appointments affects the running and functioning of local governments and thus the need of having local government elections is more urgent,” he said.
He said the state executive councillor (exco) for local government Teng Chang Khim has promised to hold local government elections by end of this year, but the details have not been forthcoming.
The CGG would be organising a public forum on March 12 in Kajang to invite all Kajang bye-election candidates to state their commitment on local elections .
The Pakatan-ruled states has argued that the federal laws have prevented them from holding local government polls, but civil society said the problems can be solved by the state appointing individuals who win in local elections.
PETALING JAYA: A Selangor-based coalition of NGOs today expressed concern over the state government’s delay in appointing a full batch of local councillors across the 12 district authorities in Selangor, saying this might lead to potential policy snags.The Coalition of Good Governance (CGG) spokesperson Jerald Joseph said despite the need to appoint 24 councillors in all the local governments by Dec 31 last year, the state has so far only appointed a portion of them.
He said for Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), only 19 of out the 24 councillors were appointed
“The whole of PJ is divided into 24 zones and each councillor is supposed to take care of one area. Now there are five zones which are not represented,” he told a press conference today.
Another NGO leader from Friends of Kota Damansara, Jeffrey Phang, claimed that some local governments were mulling over the rise in property density (plot ratio) in areas surrounding the Mass Railway Transit (MRT) project.
“This is going to have a serious impact in places like PJ, which is already very crowded. Who is going to oversee our interest ?” he asked.
Most of the local councillors in Selangor were appointed from the Pakatan Rakyat coalition parties of DAP, PKR and PAS, except a 25% quota which is supposedly reserved for the NGO members.
The appointment of councillors involves a great deal of horse-trading and political negotiations.
Jerald said while the NGO coalition places restoration of local council election as the ultimate agenda, they were concerned that even the current interim measure of having local councillors appointed by the state was not transparent.
For example, he said, the guidelines for councillors appointment was kept in the dark and the 25% quota allocated for NGO members was diluted.
“The CGG believes that this delay in appointments affects the running and functioning of local governments and thus the need of having local government elections is more urgent,” he said.
He said the state executive councillor (exco) for local government Teng Chang Khim has promised to hold local government elections by end of this year, but the details have not been forthcoming.
The CGG would be organising a public forum on March 12 in Kajang to invite all Kajang bye-election candidates to state their commitment on local elections .
The Pakatan-ruled states has argued that the federal laws have prevented them from holding local government polls, but civil society said the problems can be solved by the state appointing individuals who win in local elections.
Dr M: Religious clerics dividing Muslims
(MM) - In a scathing post against the ulama (clergy) class, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad accused its members today of disuniting Muslims in Malaysia for worldly and political gains.The nation’s longest-serving prime minister also defended himself against anti-hadith accusations, claiming that Islam and its adherents have become weak from blind faith perpetuated by the clerics.
“In Malaysia, schism also happens when those who are called ulama and are proficient in Arabic isolate themselves and break the unity of Muslims, just because they do not attain a post in the world and not chosen to be a Yang Berhormat,” Dr Mahathir wrote in his blog yesterday.
Yang Berhormat is the Malay honorific commonly used to refer to federal and state lawmakers.
“The schism is ongoing up until now. Therefore Muslims have become weak and they have to beg for support from non-Muslims … There is no neutral ulama who is urging Muslims to unite and be brothers again,” he added.
Dr Mahathir also questioned the public’s unquestioning acceptance of these ulama and their interpretation of Islam solely due to the group’s proficiency in the Arabic language, which is regarded as central to the faith.
“Is it wajib (compulsory) for us to accept whatever is taught by those religious scholars who speak Arabic although it runs counter the Islamic teaching in Quran or hadith?” the veteran statesman asked.
“It is very dangerous and confusing when anybody, just because they are proficient in Arabic and received a bachelor’s degree in Islamic studies, can be labelled ulama.”
According to Dr Mahathir, the clerics are also to blame for the division among Muslims of different denominations, in addition to starting feuds against non-Muslims that is contrary to Quranic teachings.
“The weakness of Muslims and the insults against Islam is caused by their teachings that cannot be questioned, which begs for unconditional loyalty only for them,” he added.
Dr Mahathir’s comments came after he was accused of being a deviant and anti-hadith stemming from his support for outspoken scholar Dr Kassim Muhammad, who was similarly labelled.
According to the former prime minister, his critics have rejected and refused to consider his opinions on Islam simply because he is not proficient in Arabic.
Dr Mahathir insisted that one is no less a Muslim even if one does not speak the language, and pointed out that some Arabic-speaking Muslims behaved poorly and caused more harm to their fellow followers of Islam.
He also questioned Muslims who prioritised the hadith over Quranic teachings, and who consequently advocate the violent and cruel punishments prescribed in the hadith.
Hadith — the collection of Prophet Muhammad’s deeds and sayings — were collected and documented by scholars in the 9th century after they were previously passed down orally for over 200 years.
Islamic scholars have used hadith as basis for the Islamic code of law and an essential complement to the Quran, despite contradictions to Quranic teachings.
Earlier this month, Kassim, a controversial social science and Islamic academic, delivered a lecture at the Perdana Leadership Foundation where Dr Mahathir was patron, during which he lambasted, among others, the Muslim clergy class of imitating the Christian priesthood caste.
His lecture has since been derided by some clerics and members of Islamist party PAS, who subsequently used it to attack rivals Barisan Nasional and Umno as allegedly supporting an anti-hadith movement.
Why Muhyiddin has not countermanded the mean, petty and punitive directive to transfer Nor Izzat from Jerantut to a rural school for spearheading the protest against the SBA weaknesses
By Lim Kit Siang,
The Najib administration prides itself on its efficiency and “People First, Performance Now” slogan, but almost a week have passed and the Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has yet to countermand the mean, petty and punitive directive to transfer Mohd Nor Izzat Mohd Johari, head of Suara Guru Masyarakat Malaysia (SGMM) from Jerantut to a rural school for spearheading the protest against the weaknesses in the implementation of the student-based assessment (SBA) system.
Instead of thanking Nor Izzat for his contribution in forcing the Education Ministry to face up to the crisis faced by teachers as a result of dismally-conceived implementation of the SBA, resulting finally in the SBA system being put on hold last week, Muhyiddin is allowing the “Little Napoleons” in the Education Department a free hand to penalise Nor Izzat and other teachers for their courage and conviction in speaking up about the SBA weaknesses.
When Nor Izzat’s punitive transfer to a rural school with only 24 hours’ notice became public, Muhyiddin disclaimed responsibility, denying that he was involved in Nor Izzat’s transfer.
But what has Muhyiddin done in the past week to countermand Nor Izzat’s punitive transfer.
I have been informed that Muhyiddin had done nothing and Nor Izzat’s 24-hour transfer directive has not been countermanded.
Nor Izzat and others who have stood their ground to point out the weaknesses of the SBA system had performed an important national service and should be commended and rewarded for their conviction and tenacity to act in the interests of the teachers and even more important the students.
Instead of being grateful to Nor Izzat and the teachers involved, they are instead being victimised by mean, petty and punitive bureaucratic actions.
It has been suggested that Nor Izzat should be conferred the “Tokoh Cikgu” for the Year 2014. Muhyiddin should give this proposal serious consideration.
I suggest that the over 400,000 teachers in the education service be given an opportunity to express their views whether they agree that Nor Izzat should be conferred the title “Tokoh Cikgu” for the year 2014.
Muhyiddin should meanwhile take immediate action to revoke all mean, petty and punitive directives issued to Nor Izzat and other teachers for their role in criticising the weaknesses in the implementation of the SBA system?
(Media Statement in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 27th February 2014)
The Najib administration prides itself on its efficiency and “People First, Performance Now” slogan, but almost a week have passed and the Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has yet to countermand the mean, petty and punitive directive to transfer Mohd Nor Izzat Mohd Johari, head of Suara Guru Masyarakat Malaysia (SGMM) from Jerantut to a rural school for spearheading the protest against the weaknesses in the implementation of the student-based assessment (SBA) system.
Instead of thanking Nor Izzat for his contribution in forcing the Education Ministry to face up to the crisis faced by teachers as a result of dismally-conceived implementation of the SBA, resulting finally in the SBA system being put on hold last week, Muhyiddin is allowing the “Little Napoleons” in the Education Department a free hand to penalise Nor Izzat and other teachers for their courage and conviction in speaking up about the SBA weaknesses.
When Nor Izzat’s punitive transfer to a rural school with only 24 hours’ notice became public, Muhyiddin disclaimed responsibility, denying that he was involved in Nor Izzat’s transfer.
But what has Muhyiddin done in the past week to countermand Nor Izzat’s punitive transfer.
I have been informed that Muhyiddin had done nothing and Nor Izzat’s 24-hour transfer directive has not been countermanded.
Nor Izzat and others who have stood their ground to point out the weaknesses of the SBA system had performed an important national service and should be commended and rewarded for their conviction and tenacity to act in the interests of the teachers and even more important the students.
Instead of being grateful to Nor Izzat and the teachers involved, they are instead being victimised by mean, petty and punitive bureaucratic actions.
It has been suggested that Nor Izzat should be conferred the “Tokoh Cikgu” for the Year 2014. Muhyiddin should give this proposal serious consideration.
I suggest that the over 400,000 teachers in the education service be given an opportunity to express their views whether they agree that Nor Izzat should be conferred the title “Tokoh Cikgu” for the year 2014.
Muhyiddin should meanwhile take immediate action to revoke all mean, petty and punitive directives issued to Nor Izzat and other teachers for their role in criticising the weaknesses in the implementation of the SBA system?
(Media Statement in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 27th February 2014)
LAWASIA Concern at Karpal Singh Conviction on Sedition Charges
As
the Law Association for Asia and the Pacific, LAWASIA joins others in
the international legal community in recording its concern at the recent
conviction of senior lawyer and leader of the Malaysian opposition
party, Karpal Singh, on sedition charges.
Mr Singh faced charges under the Sedition Act 1948
for a statement made by him to the media during a constitutional crisis
in Perak in 2009 where he indicated his view as a lawyer that the
Sultan of Perak's actions in removing the Chief Minister of the Perak
government would be justiciable.
While
appreciating that the conviction is a matter for the courts, LAWASIA's
concern arises where the Malaysian government had, in 2011, indicated
its intention to repeal the Sedition Act, which is widely regarded as
draconian and a relic of colonial era laws.
In this context, it notes the view of the Malaysian Bar that "the decision to proceed with the prosecution of YB Karpal Singh under a law that the government has slated for repeal is inexplicable and raises the spectre of selective prosecution."
Further, it notes that the United Nations Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers indicate at Article 23 that lawyers "have
the right to take part in public discussion of matters concerning the
law, the administration of justice and the promotion and protection of
human rights…"
In addition, it endorses the view of the Malaysian Bar that "The
right of a citizen (in this case a senior and experienced lawyer) to
voice an opinion on a constitutional law point, that is, whether the
decision of a Ruler of a State is justiciable in the courts, is clearly
within the scope of freedom of speech and expression guaranteed under
Article 10 (1)(a) the [Malaysian] Constitution.”
As
an association comprised of the peak legal bodies of Asia and the
Pacific, as well as individual judges and lawyers, LAWASIA is dedicated
to protecting human rights and upholding the rule of law. It shares the
concerns of others that the prosecution of Karpal Singh in these
circumstances indicates a disregard for fundamental constitutional
rights of freedom of expression as well as the universally-accepted
responsibilities that adhere to members of the legal profession.
Isomi Suzuki
PRESIDENT
February 26, 2014
Access To Higher Education Improves Lives - Najib
PETALING
JAYA, Feb 27 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said a quarter of
Malaysians aged between 18 and 24 are now pursuing higher education,
thanks to the government's continued efforts to improve and widen access
to education to citizens.The prime minister noted that when Universiti Malaya took its first batch of students in 1959, there were only slightly over 300 students enrolled in higher education in this country, before the numbers improved to about 4,500 in 1967.
"Today, with increased access to education, it's estimated that one in four Malaysians aged between 18 and 24 are in higher education," he said when opening the Unitar International University's new campus in Kelana Jaya, here today.
Present were Second Education Minister Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh, Unitar chancellor Datuk Mohamed Nizam Tun Abdul Razak and chairman Datuk Seri Dr Suleiman Mohamed.
Najib noted that increasing access to education at every level for all could improve the odds of success for those who were born in less fortunate circumstances.
"Over the years we've fought poverty through education," Najib said, adding that education was also a potent medicine to address income inequality.
"Today, we see many sons and daughters of fishermen, rubber tappers and farmers return to their kampung during Hari Raya, Chinese New Year and Deepavali as doctors, engineers and lawyers," he said.
The prime minister drove home the point that widening access to education should go hand in hand with efforts to increase the quality of education.
In this connection, Najib called for greater collaboration and engagement between local and international universities, saying that Unitar was one of the institutions created for this purpose.
He said armed with education, people would be able to overcome challenges that may come their way.
"And an educated person is not just about having a degree but, more importantly, having the right attitude towards life," he added.
On Unitar, which was set up in 1997, Najib hoped the university which was named after his late father, Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, could continue to grow into a top private institution of higher learning based on the spirit and legacy left by the creator of the National Education Policy.
"On behalf of my family members, I wish to congratulate Unitar on the launching of this new campus and pray that it will continue to progress in providing quality education to the community," he said.
The new 15-story campus building built on an environment-friendly concept also has facilities for the disabled group and capable of accommodating 8,000 students.
Thursday, 27 February 2014
Marina Mahathir sues Muslim NGO over Comango allegations – Bernama
Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir (pic) is suing the president and 15 committee members of Ikatan Muslimin Malaysia (Isma) over its allegations linking her to the activities of the Coalition of Malaysian NGOs in the UPR (Universal Periodic Review) Process (Comango).Marina, who sits on the Sisters in Islam (SiS) board of directors, named Isma's president Abdullah Zaik Abd Rahman, deputy president Aminuddin Yahaya, vice-president Abdul Rahman Mat Dali and 13 other committee members as the defendants.
Marina was represented by counsel Muhammad Faizal Faiz Mohd Hasani, of Messrs Lee Hishammuddin Allen & Gledhill, who filed the defamation suit at the High Court Registrar's office on January 16.
The media was provided a copy of the statement of claims today when the case was mentioned in chambers before Judicial Commissioner Rosilah Yop.
The defendants' counsel Azad Bashir told reporters that Rosilah had scheduled March 10 for the filing of their defence statements.
In her statement of claims, Marina claimed that Isma had distributed 70,000 pamphlets titled "Among the 54 NGOs in Comango" at mosques in the Klang Valley, Kuala Lumpur, Shah Alam, Putrajaya, Seremban, Kota Samarahan (Sarawak), Melaka, Kuantan and Kuala Terengganu on November 8 2013.
The former chairman of the Malaysian AIDS Foundation claimed that Isma also posted an article titled "Isma distributes 70,000 pamphlets exposing Comango" on its website http://www.ismaweb.net the same day.
She stated that the pamphlets and article implied that she was involved in Comango's activities, personally involved in its report on human rights, was the mastermind behind the non-governmental organisation and did not respect the Federal Constitution.
Marina claimed that on November 11 2013 she had issued a press statement refuting the allegations, denied she was involved in said report and gave the defendants a chance to retract their accusations.
She claimed that on the same day Isma had however made a press statement through Aminuddin repeating its accusations, to which she responded two days later through the press as well.
She further claimed that all the defendants had failed to retract the alleged defamatory statements despite three letters of demand dated November 19 and 27 and December 12.
Marina said the statements had tarnished her reputation and sought general, exemplary and aggravated damages, an injunction to prevent the defendants from publishing said statements again and an apology from them. – Bernama,February 26, 2014.
Pelajar dakwa guru pukul dengan kasut
Tidak memberi tumpuan ketika pendidikan jasmani.
PETALING JAYA: Seorang pelajar tingkatan dua mendakwa seorang guru sekolah menengah di Pulau Carey memukulnya menggunakan kasut kerana didakwa tidak memberi tumpuan ketika pendidikan jasmani.
Sebuah NGO iaitu Pertubuhan Progresif Tamilar Malaysia memberitahu perkara ini dalam satu kenyataan hari ini.
Presiden NGO itu, M.A. Kalaimugilan berkata, beliau bertindak pantas setelah mendapat tahu perkara itu.
“Phak kami bersetuju dengan tanggungjawab seorang guru untuk menghukum seorang pelajar , tetapi ini bukan caranya.
“Penghinaan seperti ini sudah pun telah menjadi trend bagi masa sekarang kerana masalah seperti ini sering berlaku di banyak sekolah,” kata Kalaimugilan kepada FMT.
Tambahan pula, pihak pengurusan sekolah juga mengaku bahawa tidak ada tindakan tatatertib kerana guru berkenaan telah memohon maaf kepada pelajar, kata kalaimugilan yang mereka melawat pengurusan sekolah untuk penjelasan semalam.
Bagaimanapun, katanya beliau tidak mahu `mohon maaf’, tetapi tindakan berat perlu diambil ke atas guru berkenaan.
“Bukan sekadar penukaran sekolah guru, atau mohon maaf, supaya masalah ini akan menjadi satu pengajaran bagi semua guru guru sekolah,” katanya lagi.
Kalaimugilan juga menambah, penghinaan seperti ini, mungkin akan menjejaskan pelajar dan keluarga pelajar dari segi mental .
Pengurusan sekolah juga berjanji supaya akan membawa pergi isu ini kepada perhatian pejabat pendidikan daerah (PPD).
School student (1)“YB P Kamalanathan (Menteri Pelajaran) mungkin ada ciri-ciri untuk memaafkan sesiapa, tetapi kami sebagai NGO tidak boleh lagi memaafkan mana-mana pihak yang bersalah.
“Kami juga menuntut Kamalanathan sebagai menteri pelajaran bertanggungjawab untuk mengambil tindakan ke atas guru berkenaan kata Kalaimugilan.
Beliau juga telah menghantar memo kepada PPD, Kementerian Pelajaran melalui email dan jika pihak berkuasa gagal untuk menyelesaikan masalah, mungkin rakyat sendiri akan turun untuk bertindak.
Kata Kalaimugilan. tujuan penglibatan NGO adalah untuk menjaga kebajikan, hak pelajar-pelajar.
Beliau menambah, NGO itu mempunyai rakaman video mangsa pelajar, dan rakaman video perbincangan dengan pihak sekolah.
PETALING JAYA: Seorang pelajar tingkatan dua mendakwa seorang guru sekolah menengah di Pulau Carey memukulnya menggunakan kasut kerana didakwa tidak memberi tumpuan ketika pendidikan jasmani.Sebuah NGO iaitu Pertubuhan Progresif Tamilar Malaysia memberitahu perkara ini dalam satu kenyataan hari ini.
Presiden NGO itu, M.A. Kalaimugilan berkata, beliau bertindak pantas setelah mendapat tahu perkara itu.
“Phak kami bersetuju dengan tanggungjawab seorang guru untuk menghukum seorang pelajar , tetapi ini bukan caranya.
“Penghinaan seperti ini sudah pun telah menjadi trend bagi masa sekarang kerana masalah seperti ini sering berlaku di banyak sekolah,” kata Kalaimugilan kepada FMT.
Tambahan pula, pihak pengurusan sekolah juga mengaku bahawa tidak ada tindakan tatatertib kerana guru berkenaan telah memohon maaf kepada pelajar, kata kalaimugilan yang mereka melawat pengurusan sekolah untuk penjelasan semalam.
Bagaimanapun, katanya beliau tidak mahu `mohon maaf’, tetapi tindakan berat perlu diambil ke atas guru berkenaan.
“Bukan sekadar penukaran sekolah guru, atau mohon maaf, supaya masalah ini akan menjadi satu pengajaran bagi semua guru guru sekolah,” katanya lagi.
Kalaimugilan juga menambah, penghinaan seperti ini, mungkin akan menjejaskan pelajar dan keluarga pelajar dari segi mental .
Pengurusan sekolah juga berjanji supaya akan membawa pergi isu ini kepada perhatian pejabat pendidikan daerah (PPD).
School student (1)“YB P Kamalanathan (Menteri Pelajaran) mungkin ada ciri-ciri untuk memaafkan sesiapa, tetapi kami sebagai NGO tidak boleh lagi memaafkan mana-mana pihak yang bersalah.
“Kami juga menuntut Kamalanathan sebagai menteri pelajaran bertanggungjawab untuk mengambil tindakan ke atas guru berkenaan kata Kalaimugilan.
Beliau juga telah menghantar memo kepada PPD, Kementerian Pelajaran melalui email dan jika pihak berkuasa gagal untuk menyelesaikan masalah, mungkin rakyat sendiri akan turun untuk bertindak.
Kata Kalaimugilan. tujuan penglibatan NGO adalah untuk menjaga kebajikan, hak pelajar-pelajar.
Beliau menambah, NGO itu mempunyai rakaman video mangsa pelajar, dan rakaman video perbincangan dengan pihak sekolah.
Waytha wants ‘slave MIC’ to leave BN
Waythamoorthy says that the Umno "tuans' have used Indian issues for their own political ends.PETALING JAYA: Former deputy minister P Waythamoorthy wants MIC to leave Barisan Nasional (BN) for acting as a propaganda mouthpiece for the government and sidelining issues affecting the Indian community.
Waythamoorthy in a press statement said that MIC was founded to protect the rights of the Malaysian Indians who were then mostly plantation workers but failed to do so.
“All we hear from MIC is that government is doing this and that in the Tamil media.
“But beyond that nothing concrete is done to find permanent and comprehensive solutions to the long standing problems faced by the Indian community.
“Since my resignation, BN has falsely propagated than a sum of RM 500 million has been dispersed to the Indians over the last 5 years.
“On the other hand even if it is true, the RM 500 million never reached the community,” said Waythamoorthy.
He also challenged the government to prove how the RM 500 million allocation was spent.
Government Ministries have failed
On the other hand Waythamoorthy claims that the Education Ministry had failed to disburse scholarships and places in local universities on a fair basis and thousands of deserving Indian students were denied their educational rights.
He adds that even the Agriculture, Housing as well as Human Resources Ministry have failed to provide alternative agriculture ventures, job training opportunities, alternative land and houses nor adequate compensation for the 800,000 displaced plantation workers since 1970’s.
With all these government failures, Waythamoorthy says it has caused the new urban underclass and rise in crime among Indians.
After resigning from his post last week, Waythamoorthy called Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak to step down for failing the Indian community and breaching the MoU signed between Barisan Nasional and Hindraf prior to GE 13.
Tamil Muslims and nation-building
Jihad for Justice chairman, Thasleem Mohamed Ibrahim, highlights his community's contribution to Malaya and the importance of the Tamil language
PETALING JAYA: Indian Muslims, particularly the Tamil Muslims, are not aware of the extent of their contribution towards nation-building, said Jihad for Justice chairman Thasleem Mohamed Ibrahim.
Speaking from his office located in Petaling Jaya, Thasleem, 64, said that Tamil Muslims not only came to then Malaya to do business but they also contributed immensely to society.
“How many of us know that a number of Tamil dailies in the past were set up by Tamil Muslims? We had the Vidya Vicharini set up in 1883 by Ghulam Kadir Navalar, a famous poet in Penang.
“CK Malchdoom Sahib founded Singai Varthamani in Singapore in 1875. SPSK Kader Sahib, another Tamil Muslim, started Vijaya Kedanan in 1887 in the British crown colony,” said Thasleem.
Thasleem added that Kadir Sahib also started one of the earliest Malay newspapers in 1894, known as Tanjong Pengerusi.
Thasleem also touched on Munshi Abdullah, known as the father of Malay literature in the 1800s, saying that Munshi was from a Tamil-Yemeni ancestry, and was a scholar fluent in multiple languages.
“Munshi was fluent in Arabic, Tamil, English and Malay. Nevertheless, he was very proud of his Tamil ancestry,” said Thasleem.
“And how many of us know that Munshi was one of the earliest persons in the region to translate the Bible into the Malay language,” asked Thasleem.
He also said that the word Melayu comes from the Tamil word Malai Ur- which means land of the mountains. The British imperialists corrupted the word and changed it to Malaya,” he said.
Maintaining that he is not against the Malays or anyone else, Thasleem said that it was time for Tamil Muslims to start learning about their history and cherish their cultural heritage.
“Don’t get me wrong. I’m always a Malaysian first. At the same time, I would like to also preserve my ethnic identity as it defines my origins.
“My ancestors came from Alagankulam, an ancient maritime port located in Tamil Nadu, India. I’m a Tamil Muslim and proud of my heritage.” he said.
‘We must cherish our heritage’
Thasleem added that Malaysian Indians, in general, are fortunate in a way because they are still able to trace their ancestral genealogy, unlike those living in other nations.
“Indians in Mauritius, the US, South America and Fiji are only Indians by blood as they do not speak their mother tongue. It is only in recent years that they are trying to trace their roots,” he said.
Thasleem urged Tamil Muslims in the country to do some soul-searching and trace their rich history.
One way, he said, was to encourage more Tamil Muslim children to attend Tamil schools in order to at least preserve the use of the classical language.
Currently, Thasleem said the enrollment of Tamil Muslim children in vernacular schools was low.
“There are about 500,000 Indian Muslims in the country, with Tamils making roughly 90% of the number.
“But out of the about 100,000 students studying in Tamil schools, only 375 of them are from the Tamil Muslim community,” said Thasleem.
He added that in the past the Tamil Muslim community had contributed immensely to the development of Tamil schools, by offering land and funds.
However, Thasleem urged Tamil Muslims not to turn fanatical in protecting their roots, saying that it goes against Islamic teachings.
“We don’t have to be a fanatic to be proud of our heritage. Prophet Muhammad says that no race is superior to another. Don’t adopt a racial background we don’t belong to.
“The Tamil language defines our heritage and it is wrong to say that only Hindus speak Tamil. If you can’t study in a Tamil school, at least speak the language at home,” he said.
PETALING JAYA: Indian Muslims, particularly the Tamil Muslims, are not aware of the extent of their contribution towards nation-building, said Jihad for Justice chairman Thasleem Mohamed Ibrahim.Speaking from his office located in Petaling Jaya, Thasleem, 64, said that Tamil Muslims not only came to then Malaya to do business but they also contributed immensely to society.
“How many of us know that a number of Tamil dailies in the past were set up by Tamil Muslims? We had the Vidya Vicharini set up in 1883 by Ghulam Kadir Navalar, a famous poet in Penang.
“CK Malchdoom Sahib founded Singai Varthamani in Singapore in 1875. SPSK Kader Sahib, another Tamil Muslim, started Vijaya Kedanan in 1887 in the British crown colony,” said Thasleem.
Thasleem added that Kadir Sahib also started one of the earliest Malay newspapers in 1894, known as Tanjong Pengerusi.
Thasleem also touched on Munshi Abdullah, known as the father of Malay literature in the 1800s, saying that Munshi was from a Tamil-Yemeni ancestry, and was a scholar fluent in multiple languages.
“Munshi was fluent in Arabic, Tamil, English and Malay. Nevertheless, he was very proud of his Tamil ancestry,” said Thasleem.
“And how many of us know that Munshi was one of the earliest persons in the region to translate the Bible into the Malay language,” asked Thasleem.
He also said that the word Melayu comes from the Tamil word Malai Ur- which means land of the mountains. The British imperialists corrupted the word and changed it to Malaya,” he said.
Maintaining that he is not against the Malays or anyone else, Thasleem said that it was time for Tamil Muslims to start learning about their history and cherish their cultural heritage.
“Don’t get me wrong. I’m always a Malaysian first. At the same time, I would like to also preserve my ethnic identity as it defines my origins.
“My ancestors came from Alagankulam, an ancient maritime port located in Tamil Nadu, India. I’m a Tamil Muslim and proud of my heritage.” he said.
‘We must cherish our heritage’
Thasleem added that Malaysian Indians, in general, are fortunate in a way because they are still able to trace their ancestral genealogy, unlike those living in other nations.
“Indians in Mauritius, the US, South America and Fiji are only Indians by blood as they do not speak their mother tongue. It is only in recent years that they are trying to trace their roots,” he said.
Thasleem urged Tamil Muslims in the country to do some soul-searching and trace their rich history.
One way, he said, was to encourage more Tamil Muslim children to attend Tamil schools in order to at least preserve the use of the classical language.
Currently, Thasleem said the enrollment of Tamil Muslim children in vernacular schools was low.
“There are about 500,000 Indian Muslims in the country, with Tamils making roughly 90% of the number.
“But out of the about 100,000 students studying in Tamil schools, only 375 of them are from the Tamil Muslim community,” said Thasleem.
He added that in the past the Tamil Muslim community had contributed immensely to the development of Tamil schools, by offering land and funds.
However, Thasleem urged Tamil Muslims not to turn fanatical in protecting their roots, saying that it goes against Islamic teachings.
“We don’t have to be a fanatic to be proud of our heritage. Prophet Muhammad says that no race is superior to another. Don’t adopt a racial background we don’t belong to.
“The Tamil language defines our heritage and it is wrong to say that only Hindus speak Tamil. If you can’t study in a Tamil school, at least speak the language at home,” he said.
End ‘Allah’ dispute by settling court case, pastors tell Putrajaya
(MM) - Putrajaya should end its five-year-old legal tussle with the Catholic Church by coming to a mutual agreement on the latter’s use of the word “Allah”, a Sabah-based group of pastors said today ahead of next week’s appeal on the matter at the Federal Court.
Unhappy that the Court of Appeal had last October upheld a ban on “Allah” in Catholic weekly Herald, the group of clergymen also insisted that the appellate court has “no rights to interfere in religion”.
Claiming that the Court of Appeal had exceeded its constitutional jurisdiction by ruling that use of the word “Allah” was not integral to the Christian faith, it said federal government still had a chance to set things right at the country’s highest court.
“We now call on Putrajaya to rectify the mistake by entering into a consent judgment before the Federal Court based on the 20 points assurance given to Sabah and Sarawak in the formation of Malaysia in 1963,” the Kota Kinabalu Chinese Pastors’ Fellowship (Chinese PFKK) said in a statement tonight.
A consent judgment takes place when all parties involved in a court matter agree to a set of terms to resolve the dispute.
In the 20-point agreement inked before the formation of Malaysia in 1963, it was stipulated among others that the people of Sabah are free to practice their own religion, and there should be no state religion in North Borneo.
The Sabah Constitution was, however, amended in 1973 by the state government to make Islam the religion of the state of Sabah.
Besides the Catholic Church’s challenge of the Home Ministry’s banning of “Allah” in its weekly paper Herald, two other cases involving Christian materials with the Arabic word for God will be up for case management here next week.
The Malay Mail Online understands that the Sabah SIB Church’s case over materials previously seized by the Home Ministry will be heard in chambers next Tuesday, while Sarawakian Jill Ireland Lawrence Bill’s case is scheduled to appear in court next Thursday.
In reference to these three cases, the Sabah group said : “This is a call to prayer for all parties as well as the judges to act with justice and righteousness.
“More importantly, they must act with conscience based on the Malaysia Agreement,” it added, referring to the 1963 agreement which incorporated the guarantee of complete religious freedom to Sabah and Sarawak.
Noting that one-third of the Cabinet ministers were from Sabah and Sarawak ― whose Christian natives had long used “Allah” in their indigenous languages, the group urged them to speak up for religious freedom regardless of their religious beliefs.
“The crisis facing us is one of freedom of religion enshrined in the Federal Constitution. They are duty bound to uphold the supremacy of the Constitution,” it said.
In a show of solidarity with the the state’s grassroots movement of Christian natives ― Perpaduan Anak Negeri (PAN) Sabah, the PFKK said it was “equally affected and offended” when their rights were “crippled” by government restrictions on the use of the Malay language bible Alkitab and the banning of the use of “Allah”.
Despite acknowledging Putrajaya’s 10-point solution in 2011 which allows Christians to use, print and distribute bibles with the word “Allah” with certain requirements for Peninsular Malaysia, the group called it “the latest deception” and “a 1Malaysia but 2-Alkitab policy”.
“We reject this one-country-two-system policy,” it said.
On October 14 last year, Justice Datuk Seri Mohamed Apandi Ali, in reading a summary of the Court of Appeal judgement by a three-man panel, said the home minister had acted well within his powers to disallow the Herald from using the word “Allah” in its Bahasa Malaysia section.
The Catholic Church’s bid to appeal the appellate court’s October ruling is opposed by nine respondents, namely the Home Ministry, the government, the Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association and the Islamic councils of six states.
According to a 2010 census, Muslims are Malaysia’s largest religious group, followed by Buddhists. Christians are the third largest at 2.6 million, which comes up to about 10 per cent of the entire Malaysian population.
Bumiputera Christians, who form about 64 per cent or close to two-thirds of the Christian community in Malaysia, have used the word “Allah” when praying and speaking in the national language and their native tongues for centuries.
Malaysia’s Allah Issue Seen from Afar
A former US ambassador to Malaysia sounds the alarm
Like other friends of Malaysia overseas, I have followed the controversy over the use of the word "Allah" with interest, but also with great concern. For I believe that this issue, if left unchecked, has the potential to tear Malaysia and the dream of "Bangsa Malaysia" apart.
While there are racial and religious issues in every society, what makes the situation in Malaysia different is that it is the government that has condoned and even provoked these tensions for its own political purposes.
For years, UMNO justified its existence by saying that the Malays are under threat, and that only UMNO could defend “the Malay race”.
After the 13th general election, in which UMNO candidates received only 30 percent of the national vote – and in which BN as a whole got only 47 percent – it had two choices. It could broaden its appeal or it could narrow it by trying to appeal to the PAS voter base, for whom religion rather than race is a more important concern.
Unfortunately, UMNO chose the latter course and started to play the "Muslim" card. Now, according to the government and UMNO, it is not just Malays, it is also Islam that is under threat. As for the "Malay" card, UMNO increasingly has gone to the extreme, pandering to extreme racist elements, starting with PERKASA.
The irony of the “Malays/Islam under threat” claim, of course, is that in Malaysia, both Malays and Muslims are the majority. And UMNO controls the government. So how can the Malay race and the Muslim religion in Malaysia be under threat?
To UMNO’s leadership, it doesn’t matter. There is no need to explain. They just speak and offer no evidence, and use their propaganda instruments - Bernama, RTM, Utusan Malaysia, the New Straits Times, etc – to spread the word.
From an international perspective, they also make assertions that are totally out of line with Islamic thinking and practice in the rest of the world.
Think about it – Malaysia is the only country in the world that ignores history and linguistics and dares to ban non-Muslims from uttering the word "Allah." Like Humpty Dumpty, the Malaysian government stands alone – and claims for itself the right to decide what words mean and what words people may read, write, think, and speak.
How can Prime Minister Najib Razak, his government, and its supporters justify their actions, when no one else in the Islamic world agrees with them? When Islamic scholars like Reza Aslan say, “We are laughing at you,” how do they respond?
They don’t. Because they don’t know what to say. They seem to be living on their own planet.
Actions, not just words
But it is not just what Najib and his government say, it also is what they have done.
It is the government that seized more than 20,000 Bibles in 2009.
It is the government that banned the use of the word "Allah" in the Catholic weekly The Herald.
It is the government’s Police Force that joined the recent raid on the Bible Society of Malaysia, confiscating over 300 bibles without a search warrant.
It is the government’s religious affairs department, JAKIM, that directed mosques throughout Malaysia to say, without citing any evidence, that Islam is “under threat,” that Christians and Jews are “enemies of Islam,” and that Christians are responsible for turning Muslims against each other and tricking them into losing their rights.
It is Najib’s cabinet that stood silently by and decided not to enforce its 10-point plan to restore religious peace and harmony in the nation.
It is the government that refused to take any action after the leader of PERKASA called for the burning bibles.
There is no greater example of uniformed assertions than former PM Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s recent claim that Christians have “no right” to use the word "Allah." Because he is Mahathir, he just says it, and he expects everyone to agree.
As the saying goes, everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but not to their own facts. In this case, history and the facts are not on Mahathir’s side. Mahathir is totally, 100 percent, wrong.
The word "Allah" was used by Arabic-speaking Christians for centuries before the birth of the Prophet and the rise of Islam. Indeed, archaeologists have found an Arabic-language Christian Bible (the Mt Sinai Arabic Codex 151), that is nearly 1,300 years old, in which God is called "Allah."
Indeed, someone might ask what right Muslims have to say the word "Allah," when it was used first by Christians? Who is violating whose rights?
The answer is simple – even though Jews and Christians used it first, they would never deny Muslims the right to say the word "Allah." Because while over the years, men and women have practiced and interpreted our religions in different ways, in the end we all worship the same God – the God of Abraham, the Creator of the Universe.
So here is the question. In the entire Islamic world, why is it only in Malaysia that people claim that uttering or writing the word "Allah" is the exclusive right of Muslims? Why is it only in Malaysia, and nowhere else in the world, that some Muslims say they will be “confused” if other people – Christians – use the word "Allah" when they worship inside their own churches, or when they read the Bible in the privacy of their own homes?
What makes Muslim Malaysians different from the other 1.5 billion Muslims in the rest of the world? I would like Malaysian advocates of the "Allah" ban to explain this, not to me (a Christian), but to explain it to the rest of the Islamic world.
Dangers of ‘quick research’
The senior judge in the Allah appeal, Mohamed Apandi Ali, wrote in his opinion that through his “quick research” on the history of the language of the Bible, “it is clear that the word ‘Allah’ does not appear even once as the name of God or even of a man in the Hebrew scriptures. The name ‘Allah’ does not appear even once in either the Old or New Testament.
“There is no such word at all in the Greek New Testament. In the Bible world, God has always been known as ‘Yahweh’, or by the contraction ‘Yah.’ That being the historical fact, it can be concluded that the word or name ‘Allah’ is not an integral part of the faith and practice of Christianity.”
Justice Apandi’s judgment clearly shows the dangers of “quick research.” He should have spent a little more time on the web. But because he refers to how the word "God" is expressed in Hebrew, Greek, and Arabic, he has raised the important issue of language and the words that we use in different languages to refer to God.
How many languages are there in the world? The Christian Bible has been translated in whole or part into an astonishing 2,817 languages, according to the Wycliffe Bible Translator, a UK organization. The complete Bible is available in 513 languages, including Arabic and Malay.
Both the Arabic and Malay Bibles use the word "Allah" to refer to God. In the case of Arabic, it has been so for at least 1,300 years, and in the case of Malay, which “borrowed” the word "Allah" from Arabic, for at least 300.
Even so, Justice Apandi ignored both history and language when he claimed that the Arabic and Malay language word for God – Allah – belongs exclusively to Muslims. That is because Jews and Christians used the word "Allah" before the Prophet was even born.
Judge Apandi also was wrong when he said that the Jews have always referred to God as "Yahweh." My own “quick research” on Wikipedia, which must have lasted 15 seconds longer than the learned judge’s, shows that the Hebrew Bible uses many names for God.
While Yahweh is indeed the most common expression, two others are "Elah" and "Eloah." They both sound very similar to "Allah" and there is a reason for that. Just as Jews, Christians, and Muslims all believe in the God of Abraham, the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Arab languages are all related to each other.
Most scholars say that Jesus spoke Aramaic, not Hebrew. And when Jesus spoke of God, he said, “Ellah.” That sounds remarkably very similar to the Arabic "Allah." And it should, because Aramaic and Arab are what linguists call “cognates.”
As word of Judaism and Christianity spread into the Arabian Peninsula, "Allah" became the Arabic language name for the God of Abraham. The word "Allah" was used first by Arab Christians and Mizrahi Jews, and only later by the Prophet and Muslims.
Sorry, Justice Apandi. Sorry, Mahathir. Sorry, Najib and UMNO.
If anyone owns the “trademark” on the word "Allah," it is the Christians, who first spread the word of the God of Abraham into the Arabian peninsula, and who first used the word "Allah." But here is the point – no Christian Malaysian insists and no Arabic-speaking Christian insists that the word "Allah" belongs exclusively to them.
So the burden of proof therefore is on any Malaysian who ignores history, language, and the facts – and who ignores what the rest of the Islamic world is doing – and simply asserts that only Muslim Malaysians may use the word "Allah."
John R. Malott served as US Ambassador to Malaysia from 1995 to 1998. He contributed this to the Malaysian website Malaysiakini.
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