Edward Ling

Dance It Competition

2011-08-30T00:32:00.001+08:00

Dance It Workshop

Day 1, September 3rd
Time: 8.30am-6.00pm
Venue: Urban Groove Dance Academy
Address: SUBANG JAYA (TAIPAN BUSINESS CENTRE)
No:7, 2nd Floor, USJ10/1C
47610 Subang Jaya,
Selangor, Malaysia.
Open to ages: 7-35 years

A dance workshop conducted by professional dance instructors that have years of experience in the dance scene. Come join us and learn exciting new moves and dance tips to improve your swagger from these professional instructors. Yes, it is completely FREE! Come with your friends and family.

Dance It Competition

Day 2, September 4th
Time: 2.30pm-5.30pm
Venue: Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall
Event: Dance It Competition!

Grand Prize: RM 3000
First runner up: RM 2000
Second runner up: RM 1000

Compete as a team or as an individual to stand a chance to win lucrative cash prizes.

*AUDITIONS WILL BE HELD ON THE 3RD SEPTEMBER (AFTER THE WORKSHOP).

To register, find the links on our Facebook event page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=257375934272550

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact us at 017 211 3550

10 points

2011-04-12T16:11:00.001+08:00

Christian group rejects Idris Jala's 10-point solution

In a lengthy 10-point statement, the Council of Churches of Malaysia (CCM) Youth did not mince its words in dismissing the 10-point solution offered by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Idris Jala.

It said that the "quick-fix" proposal ignored the "the overt and covert manner which the government had discriminated against the Christian citizenry for close to 40 years".

The following is CCM Youth's press release expressing its views in response to the various statements issued by the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM), the National Evangelical Christian Fellowship (NECF), the 10-point solution as proposed by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Idris Jala, and comments made in the media by the Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein and various parties.

1. 10-point proposal only addressed the Al Kitab issue

The 10-Point Proposal presumed that Christians were only concerned with the Al Kitab issue. That premise is incorrect.

The 10-Point Proposal distracted both the public and the church leaders from getting to the heart of the matter, that is, the concern over the overt and covert manner which the government had discriminated against the Christian citizenry for close to 40 years that had resulted in the gradual deterioration of basic rights of Christians to freely exercise their faith.

2. Restore full rights and full freedom enshrined in the federal constitution

CCM Youth denounced deplorable accusations that Christians were not being “fair” or “reasonable” in resolving the Al Kitab matter. CCM Youth disclosed that the Malaysian government had unreasonably and unjustly acted in bad faith since the early 1970s to-date against the Christian community. Among some examples were:

Gradual erosion of the control of mission schools which included even the physical removal of words such as “Holy” and crosses from schools, even though the land, building and board of governors belonged to the church;

Removing or disallowing “Christian Fellowships” from being recognised as societies in schools and universities;

Harassing and transferring out Christian teachers found teaching Bible Knowledge, a legitimate examinable subject for the SPM;

Gazetting the Al Kitab, the Bible in Bahasa Malaysia and Bahasa Indonesia, as a threat to national security under the Internal Security Act;

Denying the use of the word 'Allah' for the Christian God, even though it had been used by indigenous groups way before independence, and being the only Muslim country in the world to do so despite wide Arab usage;

Denying Christians land to operate churches or cemeteries.

And the list goes on.

CCM Youth was saddened that Christians today were openly abused, harassed and provoked in the media and encouraged by the government, with all sorts of erroneous information being placed on official government websites put up as decrees; linking activities from Valentine's Day to 'poco-poco' to crosses on football jerseys, to Christian beliefs without so much as a dialogue or a clarification with the Christian community.

So much so that even the Islamic government machinery, with nods from cabinet ministers, the Home Ministry and state governments, unashamedly encouraged over-zealous religious officers and Islamic-based NGOs, to propagate and sow seeds of hatred towards the Christian community.

CCM Youth was informed that recently a group of students went for an excursion to the Kuala Lumpur City Hall, and were denied entry just because their uniform had a cross.

After so many years of racial-religious polarisation under the hands of government machinery, religious and racial bigotry is now blatantly practised and widely nurtured in government departments against Christians.

CCM Youth believed that the 10-Point Proposal was superfluous as Christian citizens were not asking for anything extra, but for their basic constitutional rights, enshrined in the Federal Constitution, to be respected and honoured.

3. Christians' birthright to read, speak and write in the national language

CCM Youth opined that it was ludicrous to deny Malaysian Christian citizens the right to use the country's national language for the purposes of exercising their faith.

On the one hand, non-Malay citizens are often criticised for their purported lack of loyalty when they did not speak Bahasa Malaysia, but when they did, like in this case in order to read the Bible, which they had been doing for generations, they were denied that right.

CCM Youth reiterated that as citizens of this country, it was their God-given birthright, which “should not be given up, negotiated, traded away, nor 'sold for a bowl of pottage'”, being simply rushed into just because Christian leaders were offered a “quick-fix” solution to the immediate problems that were originally created by unjust parties.

4. The 10-point proposal does not carry the weight of law

CCM Youth decried attempts to create a 'band-aid' compromise solution that did not carry the weight of law. If the government were truly sincere, there would not be a need for a 10-Point Proposal.

Insofar as this matter was concerned, all the government needed to do was to instruct the Home Ministry to drop its appeal on the 'Allah' issue, which the Catholic Church won on Dec 31, 2009 when it took the case to the High Court. This action would immediately lead to the withdrawal of the Allah and the Al Kitab from any further restrictions in the country.

CCM Youth urged the government to uphold democratic principles and not play games by taking a round-about route that did not reflect their sincerity.

5. 10-point proposal sows disunity amongst Christians

The 10-Point Proposal served only to promote disunity amongst Christians, playing to the ruling government's 'divide-and-rule' tune. CCM Youth questioned how it could be plausible for a 1Malaysia, yet a 2Bible and 3Rule solution?

If at all, it only cemented CCM Youth's opinion that 1Malaysia had been nothing but political rhetoric.

If Christian leaders had agreed to this proposal, the Orang Asal of Sabah and Sarawak would have one rule; while believers in the peninsula, including the Orang Asli, would have another rule.

Should Christians subject themselves to such confusion and be manipulated to accept such terms? Likewise, by agreeing to such terms now, would Christians then forfeit the right to resolve future outstanding matters beyond the Al Kitab issue?

6. No guarantee that pledges or assurances will be honoured

Time and time again, the Christian community have been given assurances but only to be disappointed later on. CCM Youth urged church leaders to be wise, for what had been dressed as compromise could turn out to be an entrapment – “Even the elect were deceived, if that were possible.”

CCM Youth pointed out that they were well aware that there were many obstacles ahead, and they understood the “card game was in the hands” of the government.

Even if the federal government gave the impression of giving way, they could fall back on the state government machinery that would kick in and take that to another gear which involved harassing book stores, printers, forwarding agents, schools and so on, located in affected states.

7. The tipping point - today's decision will impact future generations

CCM Youth urged church leaders to take their time and not to be in a hurry. It was imperative that they did not fail future generations, or act in a manner that could adversely undermine or enslave future generations from practising their faith freely.

CCM Youth urged church leaders to remain faithful and to take as much time as they needed to ponder and to ask pertinent questions without compromising the faith.

Otherwise, future generations would return to remind past generations of leaders of "compromises" made today, or that the church leaders held silent when they could have spoken up, having restrained themselves from pursuing justice when they had the opportunity to do so.

CCM Youth urged church leaders not to worry about having to come to a decision by the CFM's Biennial General Meeting on April 14, 2011, but to take ample time to pray and seek the Lord before coming to a decision.

CCM Youth reminded church leaders that even the youths today were still learning the full extent of the rights that had been eroded to-date as events unfolded, and CCM Youth would endeavour to support church leaders to their best of abilities to recover that which was lost, and hand over full freedom to future generations as their legacy.

8. Are we speaking to the right party with the authority?

With due respect to Senator Idris Jala, CCM Youth raised concerns that there were no assurances that he had the full weight of the cabinet behind him in this regard, given the underlying tones and lack of media support from cabinet ministers. Even the prime minister himself had been strangely silent.

From remarks given by the home minister and various “shadow gatekeepers”, there had been no assurance that the relevant ministries would honour any form of agreement. What remained consistent so far had been the consistency of the government's inconsistencies. The danger of flip-flops was not a probability, but a given.

CCM Youth believed that this rush to force a solution was inadvertently linked to the outcome of the Sarawak elections and the potential impact from its Christian majority population.

CCM Youth observed that it was this careless 'short-term opportunistic' attitude of the government for political expediency that had made them wary of such overtures and advised church leaders to exercise greater caution under such circumstances.

If the government were sincere in addressing the grievances of the Christian community, CCM Youth believed that nothing less than the coming together of a task force from the Prime Minister's Department, the Home Ministry, the attorney-general, the Education Ministry and all state governments and Islamic departments had to take place.

9. Sorry seems to be the hardest word

CCM Youth pointed out that it was Idris Jala (centre) who apologised.

So far, no official statement of apology had been offered by any ministry, especially none was forthcoming from the home minister, the main protagonist who directed the stamping of the Bibles.

The public ought to know that this entire episode of the desecration of the Christian's Holy Scriptures happened during the holy month of Lent which precedes and commemorates the Lord Jesus Christ's crucifixion and celebrates His resurrection.

If an opportunity presented itself for reconciliation and restoration to properly right the grave wrong committed, CCM Youth would certainly offer forgiveness. Obviously, the situation had yet to present itself.

10. Christian cabinet ministers must take leadership

CCM Youth noted that except for Idris Jala, many Christian cabinet ministers have kept silent. One cabinet minister even called Christians foolish for holding prayer rallies. CCM Youth challenged cabinet ministers to be faithful and to choose today whom they served - whether God or man.

CCM Youth reiterated that they were not being unreasonable, audaciously demanding or stirring trouble. CCM Youth regretted that for a long time, the church had remained silent, having compromised when it should not have.

In good faith, church leaders had been drawn into endless unproductive closed-door meetings, given verbal promises and handshake agreements that never materialized.

Unfortunately for the church, Christian goodwill had not been reciprocated, and closed door agreements never honoured. The recent desecration of the Al Kitab was the last straw.

CCM Youth called upon all Christians today to rally firmly behind their Christian leaders as they worked towards a resolution for the community. CCM Youth urged the Christian community to uphold their leaders in prayer more fervently.

CCM Youth reiterated that they remained committed to nation-building and bringing about justice, peace and reconciliation for all Malaysians and migrants, and would stop at nothing to bring about change for the betterment of all peoples regardless of creed, race or religion, through proclaiming truth and bringing about justice and transformation to the nation.

GANGGUAN BEKALAN AIR TIDAK BERJADUAL DI BEBERAPA KAWASAN DI SUBANG JAYA

2011-04-03T00:03:00.001+08:00

SYARIKAT BEKALAN AIR SELANGOR SDN BHD 393257-T

KENYATAAN MEDIA

2 APRIL 2011 SIARAN SEGERA

GANGGUAN BEKALAN AIR TIDAK BERJADUAL DI BEBERAPA KAWASAN DI SUBANG JAYA

Kuala Lumpur - Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor Sdn. Bhd. (SYABAS) ingin memaklumkan bahawa terdapat gangguan bekalan air tidak berjadual di beberapa kawasan sekitar SS15 sehingga SS19, Subang Jaya disebabkan penurunan pada paras kolam Effingham, Bukit Gasing dan Subang Airport.

Kejadian ini telah menyebabkan agihan bekalan air dari saluran paip utama menjadi tidak stabil dan melibatkan kira-kira 9,000 akaun pengguna di kawasan sekitar Subang Jaya.

Setakat laporan ini dikeluarkan, pihak SYABAS telah mengambil tindakan dengan meningkatkan bekalan air masuk ke kolam-kolam berkenaan ke tahap maksimum di ketiga-tiga kolam tersebut.

Sementara menanti bekalan air pulih seperti sediakala, pihak SYABAS telah menggerakankan lori-lori tangki bagi membantu membekalkan air kepada para pengguna yang terlibat. Pihak SYABAS akan memaklumkan perkembangan berkaitan dengan gangguan ini dan usaha-usaha yang dijalankan oleh SYABAS dari masa ke semasa untuk makluman para penduduk di kawasan terlibat.

Sehubungan itu, para pengguna yang mempunyai sebarang pertanyaan atau aduan berhubung bekalan air disarankan untuk menghubungi talian bebas tol PUSPEL iaitu 1- 800 - 88 –5252 yang beroperasi selama 24 jam sehari atau SMS ke 39222 dengan menaip: PUSPEL untuk tindakan segera

..2/

2 APRIL 2011

SIARAN SEGERA

GANGGUAN BEKALAN AIR TIDAK BERJADUAL DI BEBERAPA KAWASAN DI SUBANG JAYA m/s 2

dilaksanakan oleh pihak SYABAS. Selain itu, para pengguna juga boleh melayari laman sesawang Twitter dengan menaip www.twitter.com/puspel serta membuat carian ‘puspel syabas’ di Facebook.

- tamat -

ABDUL HALEM BIN HAJI MAT SOM

Pengurus Besar, Bahagian Komunikasi Korporat & Hal Ehwal Awam

Tel : 03-2088 5408 Faks : 03-2282 4154

HP : 012-2771527 Email : halem@syabas.com.my

ahms/en

CFM MEDIA STATEMENT PROTECT AND DEFEND CHRISTIANS’ RIGHT TO USE THE ALKITAB

2011-03-31T00:07:00.001+08:00

CHRISTIAN FEDERATION OF MALAYSIA

(PERSEKUTUAN KRISTIAN MALAYSIA)

Address: 10, Jalan 11/9, Section 11, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

Telephone: (03) 7957 1278, (03) 7957 1463, Fax: (03) 7957 1457

Email: cfmsia@yahoo.co.uk

30th March 2011

CFM MEDIA STATEMENT

PROTECT AND DEFEND CHRISTIANS’ RIGHT TO USE THE ALKITAB

We are grateful to Almighty God for bringing together Christian leaders from across churches in Semenanjung, Sabah and Sarawak to address the current controversy surrounding the impounding of Bahasa Malaysia Bibles, the Alkitab, at Port Klang and Kuching. This decision weighs heavily on us because of the implications not only for Christians but for all Malaysians.

We are united in our reaffirmation of the freedom of religion and worship. Therefore, our position is that there should be no restrictions, proscriptions or prohibitions whatsoever on the Bible or the use of the language of our choice in the practice of our religion, as it was in the days before and after the formation of Malaysia.

Christians, like any other Malaysians, are not demanding for anything beyond our constitutional and fundamental human rights as enshrined in Article 11(1) of the Federal Constitution and Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The current controversy surrounding the Alkitab is just one of many issues that concerns Christians. There has been a systematic and progressive pushing back of the public space to practice, to profess and to express our faith. For example, the wearing and displaying of crosses and other religious symbols, using religious words and constructing places of worship have been restricted.

When Christians express this concern, we do so not just for ourselves but on behalf of all Malaysians. Our faith forms a critical component of our identity as Malaysians in nation-building as enshrined in the first pillar of our nation’s Rukunegara: Belief in God.

As regards the offer made by the government on 22 March 2011, we respectfully state that this does not address the substantive issues. In point of fact, our previous offer made in 2005 to use the term “A Christian Publication” was only honoured in respect of one shipment of the Alkitab. Subsequent shipments were similarly held up and subjected to further arbitrary conditions for release.

In order to move forward, we call on the Government to commit itself once and for all to remove every impediment, whether legal or administrative, to the importation, publication, distribution and use of the Alkitab and indeed to protect and defend our right to use the Alkitab.

This includes revoking all orders made under the Internal Security Act 1960, which have declared the Alkitab as a threat to national security. Neither can the Alkitab be considered a threat to public order under the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984. We categorically reject the characterisation of our Holy Scriptures in this manner.

Instead, we see our Holy Scriptures as providing enlightenment and direction. In the words of the psalmist, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” (Psalm 119 : 105). In the New Testament is stated the teaching that we hold dear and true : “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (II Timothy 3 : 16)

We remain committed to work with the Government for a viable and long-term solution where the detailed processes and procedures are made clear and unequivocal and so long as our fundamental liberties as enshrined in the Federal Constitution are not infringed.

As for the copies of the Alkitab that have been impounded and desecrated, we reiterate our position that the action of the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) in stamping the Bibles amounts to an act of defacement, disrespect and treating with disdain the holy book of the Christians.

Given the unfortunate experience of KDN’s tendency of taking arbitrary action without consulting affected parties or respecting the religious sensitivities of the Christian community, any decision to collect copies of the Alkitab which have been stamped and serialised would be with a view to prevent the possibility of further arbitrary acts of desecration, disrespect or destruction being committed against the Holy Scripture of the Christians by KDN and its officers.

We have left it to the 2 importers to decide whether or not to collect the Alkitab, based on their different specific circumstances and level of trust in the authorities and the processes in their local context.

Nevertheless, no matter what their decision is, we remain united in our common stand to uphold the principle of freedom of religion which includes the free availability without hindrance or obstacle of the Alkitab and all sacred scriptures in Malaysia.

We continue to call on all peace-loving Malaysians to pray for a dignified resolution to these critical issues in the life of our nation.

Dated this day 30th March 2011

Bishop Ng Moon Hing

Chairman and the Executive Committee

The Christian Federation of Malaysia

2011-03-10T21:11:00.000+08:00

1 P a g e

CHRISTIAN FEDERATION OF MALAYSIA

(PERSEKUTUAN KRISTIAN MALAYSIA)

Address: 10, Jalan 11/9, Section 11, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
Telephone: (03) 7957 1278, (03) 7957 1463, Fax: (03) 7957 1457
Email:
cfmsia@yahoo.co.uk

10 March 2011

MEDIA STATEMENT BY CFM

DETENTION OF BAHASA MALAYSIA BIBLES YET AGAIN

The Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) is greatly disillusioned, fed-up and angered by the repeated detention of Bibles written in our national language, Bahasa Malaysia. This time yet again at the Port of Kuching in Sarawak.

30,000 copies of the "Perjanjian Baru, Mazmur dan Amsal" i.e. the "New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs" are currently being withheld.

This is notwithstanding that the Government in its attempt to to justify its position against the use of the word "Allah" in the Alkitab, the Government had given the assurance that the Bible in Bahasa Malaysia, will be freely available, at least in Sabah and Sarawak.

Since March 2009, all attempts to import the Bible in Bahasa Malaysia, i.e. the Alkitab, whether through Port Klang or the Port of Kuching, have been thwarted.

The previous consignment of 5,000 copies of the Alkitab imported in March 2009 is still being held by the Ministry of Home Affairs in Port Klang. This is despite repeated appeals which resulted in the Prime Minister making a decision to release the Alkitab held in Port Klang in December 2009 which was reported to CFM leaders by several Cabinet Ministers and their aides.

In absolute disregard of this decision, the 5,000 copies of the Alkitab remain detained. The Prime Minister when told about the continued detention of these 5,000 Bibles at a hi-tea event last Christmas expressed surprise that the order to release the same held in Port Klang had not been implemented. However, nothing has been done by the authorities to ensure their release.

Prior to March 2009, there were several incidents where shipments of the Bible in Bahasa Malaysia were detained. Each time tedious steps had to be taken to secure their release. It would appear as if the authorities are waging a continuous, surreptitious and systematic programme against Christians in Malaysia to deny them access to the Bible in Bahasa Malaysia.

2 P a g e Malaysian Christians, many of whom have grown up with Bahasa Malaysia as their principal medium of communication as a result of the Government’s education policies, must have access to Bibles in Bahasa Malaysia in order to read, comprehend and practise their faith.

The freedom of religion guaranteed as part of the fundamental liberties under our Federal Constitution is rendered meaningless if adherents to a religion are denied access to their religious texts in a language that they can understand.

It is an affront to them that they are being deprived of their sacred Scriptures. Many are wondering why their Scriptures are considered a threat to national security. All these actions in relation to the detention of the Bibles continue to hurt the Malaysian Christian community.

We would ask how the Government’s transformation programme can be successfully implemented if civil servants can blatantly refuse to obey the Prime Minister’s order? Is the Government powerless to act against these "little Napoleons" who substitute their own interests and agenda in place of the Prime Minister’s directives?

We call upon the Government to act now and prove their sincerity and integrity in dealing with the Malaysian Christian community on this and all other issues which we have been raising with them since the formation of the Christian Federation of Malaysia in 1985.

As an immediate step, we insist upon the immediate release of all Bibles which have been detained.

Bishop Ng Moon Hing Chairman and the Executive Committee,

Christian Federation of Malaysia

Pakatan Rakyat Orange Book (Buku Jingga) - Change now, Save Malaysia

2011-02-08T18:04:00.002+08:00

CONTENTS
1
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
2
Country in Crisis
Economic Crisis
Rot in National Institutions
Ethnic Tensions
Burdening the Rakyat
Violated Rights
Endemic Corruption
Educational Crisis
3
Prosperity, Solidarity and Social Justice with Pakatan Rakyat
Freeing our National Institutions
Achieving Prosperity through a Fairer Distribution of Income
Increasing the Rakyat’s Disposable Income
Transparency Empowering the Rakyat
Prioritising Educators
A Culture of Knowledge as the Core of Universities
Fighting Corruption
Sabah-Sarawak as Equal Partners
4
Pakatan Rakyat’s First 100 Days Programme
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
1
CHANGE NOW, SAVE MALAYSIA!
After 53 years of independence, Malaysia is in crisis. The Malaysian dream of a harmonious and prosperous nation has been shattered.
Democracy and the rakyat’s rights continue to be trampled and eroded by the UMNO/BN leadership. Corruption and abuses of power are rampant. The nation’s wealth has been misappropriated by the powerful and connected elites.
UMNO/BN is unconcerned about the plight of the ordinary rakyat: for most, personal incomes and living standards have stagnated, and all are beset by the rising cost of living. As a nation, our competitiveness has suffered due to weak policies and ineffective government.
To overcome this national crisis, we need a political will to change. Malaysia is in dire need of a major paradigm shift in its policies and thoughts. Pakatan Rakyat offers our nation a strong political will for change.
In meeting our nation’s needs, we have crafted the Common Policy Platform; a comprehensive and holistic policy document to help/enable all the rakyat. Our policies are based on these four primary goals and principles:
1. A transparent and true democracy to reflect and empower the supremacy of the rakyat;
2. A dynamic and sustainable economy to provide prosperity and social welfare to all;
3. Social justice to ensure the complete development of rights and respect of human dignity;
4. Federal-State and foreign policies that are based on principles of fairness and justice.
Malaysians have suffered for decades due to the abuses of power, corruption and ethnic politics under the archaic UMNO/BN system. Now, Pakatan Rakyat via the Common Policy Platform proposes a set of policies and plans to lead the nation to a new and better future.
Pakatan Rakyat parties have reaffirmed their commitment to the Federal Constitution. We will be guided by it: it is our moral compass in our struggle for a better Malaysia. Our allegiance is encapsulated in our Common Policy Platform, whose first three objectives are:
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
2
1. To defend the Federal Constitution, Islam as the religion of the Federation while other religions can be practiced peacefully anywhere in the country, the special position of the Malays and the indigenous peoples anywhere including Sabah and Sarawak, and the legitimate interests of other races in accordance to Article 153.
2. To defend the role and responsibility of the institution of Constitutional Monarchy.
3. To uphold the use of Bahasa Melayu in accordance to Article 152 of the Constitution and promote Bahasa Melayu as the regional lingua franca, while protecting and strengthening the use of mother tongue languages for all races, and improving the command of the English language in order to enhance Malaysia’s global competitiveness.
All member parties of Pakatan Rakyat have pledged to uphold a united position, and to be bonded by a common struggle. Our unity has paved the path toward a two-party political system for the nation.
We seek the rakyat’s support to improve upon the success we achieved in the historic 12th General Election. We resolve to deliver to the rakyat in the coming 13th General Election, their wish for a change in the Federal Government and end to the UMNO/BN corrupt administrative system. The rakyat’s clamour for political change is honourable and historic. The end of a failing one-party rule system is also essential to save Malaysia from the present crisis.
The Pakatan Agenda represents the heart beat of the rakyat’s longing for a nation and a community rooted in democracy and fairness. Our agenda is inclusive of all. It provides an elemental transformation in thought, approach and methodology of government. These fundamental changes are needed to liberate the nation’s institutions from the tyrannical greed of the present elites – those ravenous leaders who are only interested in perpetuating their self–interests at the expense of the rakyat and our nation’s future.
In contrast, Pakatan Rakyat’s agenda will reinvigorate our nation’s economic prospects and offer inclusive growth; the distribution of the nation’s wealth is based on social justice and fairness. This is evidenced by our existing and planned programmes, which are all grounded in our wish to serve the current and future needs and welfare of the wider majority.
Under UMNO/BN, Malaysia’s economic prospects are grim; we have failed to keep up with regional neighbours that were once on par with or behind us. UMNO/BN gropes in the dark for solutions to our economic morass. As a result of their mismanagement, our nation is now faced with stiff competition from previously economic lesser countries. Our nation’s
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
3
economic ranking and stature, within the context of the global economy, has fallen drastically.
To make matters worse, we have leaders who are distant and who prioritise their own selfish interests, ignoring the suffering rakyat. Whilst welfare supports have been slashed in the name of reducing the government’s financial burdens, the gaping maw of corruption is widening, as greedy and uncaring elites plunder our nation’s wealth.
The UMNO/BN government’s actions shows a lack of genuine political will to restore our global competitiveness as a nation. The recently announced new economic programme is flat and disappointing, lacking any real commitments to implement “economic transformation.” Instead, it focuses on mega and vanity projects.
The nation and the rakyat face multiple worries and fears. The UMNO/BN culture is to misuse and abuse our national institutions to hide its weaknesses and wrongdoings; and it has continually directed key institutions to exert undue pressure on Pakatan Rakyat, is dangerously common and prevalent. UMNO/BN’s ultimate objective is to prolong its rule, at all costs. It is neglecting the nation’s increasingly chaotic economic, political and social challenges, and it is failing to put up any effective solutions.
Malaysia needs change, now! The future of nation and the rakyat is uncertain and worrisome. If we do not change now, the rot of our nation will continue unabated. Eventually, our nation will decline from a state of gloom, to that of doom.
The rakyat’s hope of a peaceful and prosperous multi-ethnic Malaysia must be rekindled immediately. This can only be achieved with the principles of social justice and unity. Pakatan Rakyat is confident that our agenda for change, will see the spirit of justice and unity returning to our nation and our communities.
This Pakatan Agenda introduces our policies and action plans based on our Common Policy Platform, designed to realise the mission of Pakatan Rakyat to build a prosperous and just nation. We believe that national prosperity can only be achieved and sustained, if it is rooted in the principles of social justice and unity. Under Pakatan Rakyat, the spirit of democracy will become embedded in our nation’s administration and institutions. With this, our nation’s hopes will be realised and flourish.
This Pakatan Agenda carries the rakyat’s aspirations. Our Common Policy Platform will help produce a just and enlightened community. This document presents a viable vision of a prosperous and just Malaysia under Pakatan Rakyat.
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
4
Together let us change now, to save Malaysia! Let us spread this message of hope and transformation to the nation.
Y.B. Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim
Y.B. Lim Kit Siang
Y.B. Dato’ Seri Hj. Abdul Hadi Awang
Advisor
People’s Justice Party (KEADILAN)
Parliamentary Head
Democratic Action Party (DAP)
President
Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS)
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
5
A COUNTRY IN CRISIS
Economic Crisis
Malaysia’s economy has stagnated since the East Asian economic crisis of 1997/98. After a decade of economic mediocrity, Malaysia is now far behind countries like South Korea, Taiwan and Singapore, and may soon be overtaken by Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam.
The UMNO/BN administration’s response to the economic crisis has been to scatter promises with empty slogans that cost the rakyat millions of ringgit.
We are presented with a plethora of economic plans such as the New Economic Model (NEM), the Government Transformation Program (GTP), the Economic Transformation Program (ETP), and others – none of which truly departs from previous economic approaches.
These programs are still based on excessive spending of public monies to fund mega projects without any intention to implement the economic reforms that are badly needed.
years in a row of budget deficits for Malaysia.
years in a row, that Malaysia has failed to achieve its economic growth targets.
is the average economic growth from 2001 – 2005 vs. UMNO/BN’s target of 7.5%.
is the average economic growth from 2006 – 2010 vs. UMNO/BN’s target of 6%.
For the first time ever, our GDP is now smaller than Singapore’s.
billion ringgit is the amount of PETRONAS money that has been used by the UMNO/BN government between 2007 and 2010, an average of RM81.25 billion per year.
10
4.7%%
4.2%%
GDP
325
12
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
6
is the percentage of national debt to GDP in 2009, up significantly from 35.1% in 1998.
is the multiple of increase in UMNO/BN government expenditure, from RM68 billion (1998) to RM214 billion (2010), fuelled largely by PETRONAS money and increasing borrowings.
is the number of years that Malaysia has had single-party rule, under UMNO/BN administrations.
Rot in National Institutions
National institutions are facing increasing deterioration due to UMNO/BN political interference. The independence and competency of our judiciary is becoming increasingly questionable. The well-publicised impropriety of our top judges has caused a crisis of confidence amongst Malaysians and the international community. There is an increasing trend of political meddling in judicial proceedings.
If the integrity of our institutions is not reinstated, injustice will prevail and confidence will further deteriorate. Attempts to revive the flagging image of Malaysia in the eyes of local and foreign investors will continue to be ineffective.
Malaysia fell
Ethnic Tensions
UMNO/BN continues to foster disunity, in order to maintain their grip on power. This colonially inspired divide and rule tactic has increased in intensity since the rakyat’s political tsunami of 2008. This reflects the ruling elite’s attitudes – they would sacrifice harmony for political gains when desperate.
53.3%
3
26
spots in the institutional integrity ranking in the Global Competitiveness Report conducted by the World Economic Forum from 2007 to 2009.
53
Pakatan Agenda:
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7
34%
There has been a marked increase in racially charged incidents since March 2008. These have been orchestrated by UMNO/BN, pursuing its narrow-minded political games, threatening multiethnic unity.
UMNO/BN has also been increasingly obsessed with using issues that incite inter-ethnic suspicions. Such attempts to create discontent reflect UMNO/BN’s increasing desperation.
Burdening the Rakyat
Malaysia suffers a lame economy and poor economic prospects. The UMNO/BN administration has failed to reinvigorate the economy. This has disadvantaged the rakyat considerably. Stagnant nominal salaries have crippled the rakyat’s purchasing power – many find it difficult to deal with the rising cost of living.
is the average increase in salary of Malaysians between 2000 – 2010, compared to a worldwide average of 3.2% (including all poor countries).
is the decrease in purchasing power, comparing the ratios of change in salaries and inflation between 1990 and 2009.
Is the percentage of Malaysian households earning less than the average income of RM 1,500 a month (the lowest income group).
out of 4 families in the lowest income group category is Malay/Bumiputra.
of Malaysian workers (about 4 million people) are paid less than RM700 a month, which is below the poverty line.
of the RM39 billion paid in subsidies and compensation each year are given to
2.6%
4%
40%
3
62%
Pakatan Agenda:
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8
corporations (IPPs, highway concessions etc), and not to the rakyat.
billion allocated for food subsidies (sugar, wheat, rice), which UMNO/BN is trying to revoke. RM19 billion worth of gas subsidies are given to independent power producers and RM4 billion is given to highway concessionaires each year.
billion worth of gas subsidies are given to independent power producers each year, compared to RM 11 billion worth of petrol subsides for the rakyat – now at risk of being revoked for the rakyat, but not for the corporations. Rakyat to suffer, while these corporations will continue to enjoy special big profits.
billion worth of personal debt owed by Malaysian households to banks, the worst in Asia.
is the number of years that Malaysia has had single-party rule, under UMNO/BN administrations.
Violated Rights
The rakyat are increasingly subject to ruthless abuses of power under UMNO/BN rule. Incidents of extrajudicial killings and police brutality are increasing and involve victims of all races.
The freedom of peaceful assembly and expression has also come under consistent attack, both in public space and cyberspace. The UMNO/BN administration seems intent on finding ways to control the Internet, seeing as it is the only way left to spread alternative information to the rakyat.
These actions do not reflect a government willing to respect the freedoms and rights of the rakyat and uphold their dignity. The UMNO/BN grip on power shows no sign of loosening or offering betterment, on its own accord.
RM4
RM19
RM466
53
Pakatan Agenda:
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Endemic Corruption
Corruption is a cancer that is destroying our nation from the inside. A culture of corruption has been the primary obstacle to bringing about a dynamic economy and society. In the last decade especially, corruption has been the primary reason foreign investment has been reluctant to come to Malaysia, and has complicated the already difficult process of reviving the economy. Local investors have also taken flight.
Corruption is rampant because of the tacit support of the UMNO/BN administration and their connections to the rentier class (especially cronies connected to the ruling party). These Ali Baba’s are parasites that suck the nation’s coffers dry to fill their greedy pockets.
If unchecked, the corruption flourishing under the present UMNO/BN leadership will continue to erode our nation’s competitiveness and suck dry our nation’s soul.
billion lost each year to leakage, financial improprieties and continuing corruption.
is the ratio of losses due to corruption to the amount spent for petrol subsidies for the rakyat i.e. for every 1 Ringgit of petrol subsidies, 3 Ringgit is lost to corruption.
is the score in the Corruption Perception Index in 2010 vs. the UMNO/BN target of 4.9. This score is lower than in 2009.
is the percentage of Malaysians polled by Transparency International who said that corruption is worsening in 2010 compared to 2009.
is the number of years that Malaysia has had single-party rule, under UMNO/BN administrations.
RM28
3:1
4.4
53
46%
Pakatan Agenda:
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10
29.7%
A Crisis in Education
Economic and social difficulties are a direct result of a lack of an effective education policy. After 53 years of independence under UMNO/BN rule, Malaysia’s education system has deteriorated. Once respected regionally, our rankings are now on a downward slide.
UMNO/BN seems to use schools and universities as platforms to peddle political influence. Education is meant to create social mobility, and drive the economy for the betterment of all. It is a key public good that should be treated with respect. The most advanced nations are those that have highly effective and just educational systems at all levels - the primary, secondary and tertiary levels, offering both vocational and academic streams.
is the ranking in the UNDP World Development Report 2010 on the level of human development. Malaysia is far behind South Korea (12), Hong Kong (21), Singapore (27) and even Brunei (37).
is the percentage of Malaysians who finished secondary education between 2001 and 2009, compared to South Korea (96.4%), Hong Kong (75.2%) and Brunei (88.2%).
in every 4 Malaysians did not complete secondary education between 2001 and 2009.
is the percentage of Malaysians who begin tertiary education, compared to South Korea (96.1%).
is the number of years that Malaysia has had single-party rule, under UMNO/BN administrations.
57
68.7%
1
53
Pakatan Agenda:
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PROSPERITY, SOLIDARITY AND SOCIAL JUSTICE WITH PAKATAN RAKYAT
Pakatan Rakyat's has been granted a mandate to run several states by the rakyat and has managed to instill the spirit of solidarity and social justice to help ensure prosperity for all. The basic principles as set out in our Common Policy Platform have been put into practice in a myriad of pro-rakyat policies, to achieve distributive growth.
The primary focus of Pakatan Rakyat in the years to come will be to further strengthen its pro-rakyat approach and continue to uphold best practices in governance. This will give the rakyat the opportunity to judge for themselves, the sincerity and effectiveness of the Pakatan Rakyat governments.
Specific growth oriented and pro-rakyat steps will be introduced in the Pakatan Rakyat states with similar measures at national level, by Pakatan Rakyat’s national leaders and activists.
The track records of the Pakatan Rakyat states - Kelantan, Kedah, Penang, Perak and Selangor - in defending the interests of the rakyat is unrivalled by UMNO/BN. Reports from the Auditor-General and independent observers have confirmed that the Pakatan Rakyat administrations are not only transparent and free from corruption, but are also people-friendly, welfare-driven, and have been successful at increasing state revenues.
The areas which will be given particular emphasis in our effort to put the Common Policy Platform into action are as follows:
Freeing our National Institutions
Recognising the importance of having independent national institutions with integrity, Pakatan Rakyat pledges to:
 Continue the practice of transparent and responsible government currently championed by Pakatan Rakyat states, to demonstrate our commitment towards freeing the nation's institutions from the undue influence of politics.
 Set up a Council of Experts to formulate and change existing national policies with regard to key economic, political and social challenges.
 Strengthen the working of Pakatan Rakyat’s Parliamentary Committees (currently tasked to shadow designated ministries), to monitor and verify the operational effectiveness of the various Ministries by publishing reports and findings once every six months.
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
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 Provide information and educate a wider audience of the importance of independent national institutions with integrity, co-operating with NGOs and civil society.
 Continue to pressure on the current Government to free the nation's institutions from political interference, through sustained campaigns and initiatives.
Achieving Prosperity through a Fairer Distribution of Income
Recognising the many hardships faced by and sacrifices made by the majority of the rakyat, oppressed by unjust income distribution, Pakatan Rakyat pledges to:
 Engender a paradigm shift in the mainstream discourse away from the UMNO/BN obsession with corporate equity shareholdings to one that revolves on concrete and measurable targets that focuses on actual household income. The 30% Malay/Bumiputra equity target obsessively defended by UMNO/BN has been hijacked by the very same elites defending it. These equity targets means nothing to the majority of Malays/Bumiputras, still trapped in poverty after 53 years of UMNO/BN rule. We propose using household income targets; targets that will directly impact hundreds of thousands of Malaysian families earning less than RM1,500 per month.
 Investigate and take action against the plunderers of the rakyat's wealth; stolen in the name of championing the interests of the Malays/Bumiputra, including the scandalous loss of shares worth RM52 billion allocated to the elite and cronies.
 Continue non-discriminatory direct assistance schemes for the rakyat as a means of equitable wealth redistribution, including welfare inspired schemes such as free water, old folks and single mother assistance.
 Defend the rakyat’s right to petrol and basic household subsidies so long as corporate subsidies to independent power producers and concessionaires remain.
 Champion the interest of the poorest, regardless of race with household incomes under RM1,500 per month. We shall strive to provide a minimum household income of RM4,000 per month for every household in Malaysia within the first 5 years of a Pakatan Rakyat government. This is achievable by way of implementing a series of policies which will raise incomes and create job opportunities to ensure that every household will be able to have more than one member in employment. These policies will include the implementation of a minimum wage,
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
13
employment laws which will allow women to work from their homes, training schemes to transform and upgrade the skill-sets of the Malaysian workforce, and entrepreneurial assistance free from discrimination.
 Provide and guarantee food security for all and ensure reasonable food prices. Within the first two years of taking power at federal level, to reduce the nation's dependence on food imports.
Increasing the Rakyat’s Disposable Income
There has been a continuing erosion of the rakyat's purchasing power, as inflation continues to outpace increases in salaries. In addition to promoting productivity growth, there is a pressing need to address the problem of rising costs which are suppressing the disposable income of the rakyat. Productivity growth will require the development of an effective education system, the growth of investments and the promotion of R&D. This will take time to implement and achieve. However, we can address unjustified high costs of utilities due to corporate monopolies and put the steps to ensure abundance of affordable housing immediately. Pakatan Rakyat pledges to:
 Re-structure four key areas of public infrastructure and utilities in order to reduce the high prices paid by the rakyat, by preventing concession holders from monopolies and excessive profits. The four areas of public infrastructure and utilities concerned are water, electricity, highways and broadband connectivity. Pakatan Rakyat will ensure that these utilities are either cost effectively run or competitive via effective regulations.
 Complete the take-over of the management of the water industry in the Klang Valley in order to ensure that water tariffs remain affordable. We will continue the Free Water Scheme enjoyed by the rakyat thus far.
 Prevent the wholesale privatisation of the healthcare sector, as this could jeapordise the cost and quality of healthcare to the rakyat. We will thus ensure that quality healthcare services can continue to be enjoyed by the rakyat free of charge.
 Create a National Housing Board to oversee, develop and manage a people-centric housing development scheme. This will ensure that every family in Malaysia can afford to own a comfortable dwelling at a price commensurate with their income.
 Quickly solve outstanding cases of abandoned housing projects which continue to oppress the rakyat, by any means thought appropriate by the Pakatan Rakyat state governments. Thus far, Pakatan Rakyat
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
14
governments have already begun to rehabilitate housing projects involving some 3,000 homes.
 Continue and further expand micro-credit schemes introduced to help the poorest improve their economic position, through financial aid, training and effective implementation. Thus far, RM70 million has already been allocated for various micro-credit schemes in the Pakatan Rakyat states.
Transparency Empowering the Rakyat
The rakyat can and should play a crucial role to monitor the effectiveness of any government – to ensure good and clean administration. Pakatan Rakyat pledges to:
 Continue the empowerment of the rakyat as a check and balance mechanism by practising complete transparency of government and information. This will include the complete implementation of the Freedom of Information Enactments already introduced in Pakatan Rakyat states.
 Extend support for civil society through increased assistance to NGOs which champion the rakyat's interests, as part of the overall effort to strengthen the role of NGOs as the voice of the rakyat.
Prioritising Education & Educators
Recognising the immense contribution of our educators towards the nation’s development and social solidarity, Pakatan Rakyat pledges to:
 Provide direct funding to all types of educational institutions - at all levels and for academic, technical and vocational streams - in order to expand access to effective education for Malaysians of all walks of life. Our educators are the core of our education system and we would offer them direct assistance programmes, as recognition of their key role and their noble sacrifices and unrelenting service in nation building.
 Harmonize the pay of educators using the principle of fair assessment with consideration to expertise and length of service.
 Implement a salary scheme with a fair and comprehensive assessment system for teachers which will be on par with that of engineers, accountants and doctors. This is our firm commitment to establish a quality education system.
Pakatan Agenda:
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15
 Re-evaluate current deployments in schools to ensure that all teachers are fully trained and qualified, including a resolution of the status of temporary teachers.
 Reduce the bureaucratic and administrative burden faced by our educators. The UMNO/BN’s constant cycle of new education policies and its emphasis on administrative perfection and complete reports has come at the expense of time which would have been better spent in educating our future generations.
A Culture of Knowledge is the Core of our Universities
Under UMNO/BN administration, our universities are trapped in a crisis of credibility and quality. This is a pressing and major problem for the nation. Pakatan Rakyat believes that no further time can be wasted, and that urgent and specific attention is needed, with a concerted effort to restore the standard of our universities. Pakatan Rakyat pledges to:
 Restore intellectual and academic freedom to the universities, by ending all forms of political interference in their administration.
 Create a Selection Panel, staffed by experts, to shortlist and assess the suitability of candidates to lead the universities. We shall ensure that the best possible candidates are placed at the head of our universities. We are committed to the principle of academic meritocracy in universities.
 Fully support our students’ struggle to repeal AUKU and restore the right of university students to express themselves and engage fully in political thoughts and activities.
 Solve the funding crisis in higher education. PTPN’s deficit is projected to reach a stratospheric RM46 billion within a decade. We would reduce the financial burden of student loans by offering interest-free schemes and allowing repayments to commence six months after entering full-time employment.
 Guarantee the right of every qualified Malaysian to obtain tertiary and further education at minimal cost.
 Restore the rakyat’s right to educational scholarships, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution, for those who are deserving. We pledge to limit the need for costly private education.
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
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Fighting Corruption
Recognising the widespread destructive trends wrought by corruption upon our nation, Pakatan Rakyat pledges to:
 Place the administration of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) under the supervision of Parliament, including the appointment of MACC’s most senior positions.
 Launch an all-out anti-corruption ‘war’ at state level. This would include tightening government procedures and administrative mechanisms.
 Offer legal services to defend any individual who exposes a corruption scandal, without regard for political affiliation. This is to encourage more people to come forward and play their part in the fight against corruption.
 Continue implementing the practice of open tenders, including the introduction of new steps with checks and balances in supply chain management. These are aimed at stamping out all forms of corruption.
Sabah and Sarawak as Equal Partners
Respecting the position of Sabah and Sarawak as equal partners in the Malaysian Federation, and honouring previous agreements made, Pakatan Rakyat pledges to:
 Restore autonomy to Sabah and Sarawak in line with and within the framework of the Federal Constitution and the Federation Agreement.
 Raise the royalties paid on petroleum and hydrocarbon resources to Sabah and Sarawak to 20% from the present 5%.
 Set up a Royal Commission to solve the perennial problem of illegal immigration and citizenship in Sabah.
 Help bring the level of infrastructural development in Sabah and Sarawak up to par with other states of the Federation.
 Increase national integration between Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia through a fair power-sharing arrangement that fully upholds the spirit of the Federation.
Pakatan Agenda:
Change Now, Save Malaysia!
17
PAKATAN RAKYAT’S FIRST 100 DAYS PROGRAMME
Pakatan Rakyat will implement holistic and necessary reforms in the national administration of the economy, education and others. These will be based on principles that have been outlined in the Common Policy Platform.
As a start to this reform programme, we commit to implement the following within the first 100 days of receiving the rakyat’s mandate to rule:
1. Reform the main national institutions of government, such as the Election Commission, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, the Attorney General’s Chambers and the Malaysian Royal Police Force to introduce transparency and restore accountability of government.
2. Abolish the Internal Security Act.
3. Direct Khazanah Berhad, the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and all other government bodies that own highway concessions to complete the transference of such highway assets to the government with the purpose of abolishing tolls.
4. Change the structure of national subsidies by reducing corporate sector subsidies (such as the gas subsidies of RM19 billion to independent power producers) and transferring these savings toward subsidies for the rakyat.
5. Recognise the roles and contributions of public servants by re-evaluating the salary structures; starting with an increase in teachers’ allowances by RM500 per teacher per month as a recognition of the importance of their role as educators in nation building.
6. Restoring all private water concessions to the government, making water a public asset of the rakyat.
7. Deploy free Wi-Fi internet services to all Malaysians in the urban and semi-urban areas.
8. Dissolve Felda Plantations to redistribute its estate lands to the second and third generation of Felda settlers.
9. Increase oil royalties to Sabah, Sarawak, Terengganu and Kelantan to 20%.
10. Set up a Royal Commission to comprehensively resolve the problems of illegal immigration and citizenship in Sabah.

Sunway Group has police Bantuan, Genting Group has police Bantuan, but no police bantuan for Selangor Government

2011-02-08T13:16:00.002+08:00

KENYATAAN AKHBAR
8 FEBRUARI 2011
_______________________________________________________________________
Kerajaan Persekutuan Perlu Terima Tawaran Kerajaan Negeri Untuk
Tubuhkan Pasukan Polis Bantuan

YAB Menteri Besar Selangor, Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim menghantar surat kepada YB Menteri Dalam Negeri, Dato’ Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein semalam yang meminta pihak kementerian mempertimbangkan permohonan Kerajaan Selangor untuk Menubuhkan Pasukan Polis Bantuan.

Surat ini adalah yang kedua dihantar YAB Menteri Besar selepas surat pertama yang dihantar kepada YAB Timbalan Perdana Menteri dan salinannya dihantar kepada YB Menteri Dalam Negeri pada Julai tahun lepas, tidak mendapat sebarang maklum balas.

Dalam surat kepada YB Menteri Dalam Negeri itu, YAB Menteri Besar menyatakan kebimbangan Kerajaan Negeri terhadap kadar jenayah yang semakin meningkat sehingga menimbulkan kebimbangan serius di kalangan rakyat Selangor, serta mengulangi hasrat kerajaan negeri untuk mengambil langkah konkrit demi menangani masalah ini.

“Saya menulis kepada YB Menteri Dalam Negeri supaya hasrat Kerajaan Selangor untuk menubuhkan Pasukan Polis Bantuan menjadi kenyataan. Keselamatan rakyat adalah keutamaan kerajaan negeri, dan tiada alasan munasabah mengapa kerajaan Persekutuan harus menolak tawaran kami untuk menyumbang sumber tenaga dalam usahasama menjaga keselamatan rakyat,” kata Menteri Besar.

Kerajaan Selangor pernah memohon kepada Kementerian Dalam Negeri untuk menubuhkan Pasukan Polis Bantuan dan Majlis Bandaraya Petaling Jaya (MBPJ) menjadi perintis, tetapi ditolak dengan alasan anggota polis mencukupi untuk mengawal keselamatan.

Bagaimanapun, dua kes yang terbaru di mana dua pegawal keselamatan ditetak di Damansara Perdana serta kes wanita hamil yang ditampar dan dirompak jelas membuktikan perlunya ada pasukan keselamatan tambahan untuk membantu polis mengawal keselamatan dan mencegah kejadian jenayah.

Niat Kerajaan Selangor ini murni iaitu menyediakan pasukan keselamatan bagi membantu dan melengkapi rutin harian anggota polis, bukannya mengambil alih tugas penguatkuasaan pasukan polis. Dengan peningkatan bilangan pasukan keselamatan yang diberi tugas rondaan dan pencegahan jenayah, keselamatan rakyat dapat dipertingkatkan.

“Kerajaan Selangor komited untuk menubuhkan Pasukan Polis Bantuan ini dengan hasrat menyediakan persekitaran kehidupan yang aman selaras dengan misi Kerajaan Negeri menjadikan Selangor sebagai negeri idaman, tenteram dan berkebajikan,” kata Menteri Besar.

Dikeluarkan oleh:
SEKRETARIAT AKHBAR
PEJABAT DATO’ MENTERI BESAR SELANGOR

Some of the companies that has police bantuan status : -

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM)
Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN)
Telekom Malaysia
Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB)
Percetakan Nasional Malaysia Berhad (PNMB)
Uda Holding
Semasa Sentral
Petronas
Felda Security
Utusan Melayu (M) Berhad
Pos Malaysia Berhad
Jabatan Perdana Menteri (JPM)
Kementerian Penerangan
Bursa Malaysia (BSKL)
Puncak Niaga Sdn. Berhad
Persada Sungai Besi (AADK)
Jabatan Perkhidmatan Awam (JPA)
Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri (LHDN)
Rapid KL
Maju Holding Sdn. Berhad
Astro
Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad

Source : http://www.copskl.my/PolisBantuan/tabid/2680/Default.aspx

MyConstitution Campaign is coming to Subang Jaya

2011-01-17T23:24:00.001+08:00

MyConstitution Campaign is coming to Subang Jaya

Kempen PerlembagaanKu

http://www.perlembagaanku.com/

Venue : MPSJ Auditorium
Date : 13 February 2011 (Sunday)
Time : 12:30pm - 6:00pm

Call now to register (limited seats) 016 221 3381
There is no admission charge

Program Outline

12:30pm

Arrival and registration

1:00 pm

Welcome and introduction by YB Hannah Yeoh (ADUN Subang Jaya)

1:05 pm

MyConstitution Campaign presentation by Edmund Bon (Chairperson of the Constitutional Law Committee, Bar Council)

1:15 pm

MyConstitution Campaign video presentation by Lingswaran Singh (Member of the Constitutional Law Committee, Bar Council)

1:25 pm

Module 1 Workshop

2:25 pm

Group presentation - Module 1

3:30 pm

Tea break

3:45 pm

Rakyat Service Advertisements presentation (8 short videos corresponding to each booklet theme)

4:00 pm

Module 2 Workshop

5:00 pm

Group presentation - Module 2

5:40 pm

Wrap up - Know your rights

6:00 pm

End

Cost for NKEA labs 'exorbitant'

2010-09-24T23:26:00.000+08:00

http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/fmt-english/politics/barisan-nasional/10622-cost-for-nkea-labs-exorbitant-says-consultant

Cost for NKEA labs 'exorbitant'

FRI, 24 SEP 2010 14:37

By Syed Jaymal Zahiid

KUALA LUMPUR: The consultation fees for the entire Selangor economic blueprint cost just a fraction of what the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu) had spent on just one of the 12 national key economic area (NKEA) labs, claimed prominent independent analyst Ong Kian Ming.

Ong, one of the consultants working closely with Pemandu for the education cluster in one of the NKEA labs, told FMT that the entire consultation cost for the 12 labs by the Najib administration was close to RM23 million, exorbitant when compared to the fees paid by the Selangor government for the state's economic blueprint.

"This whole exercise, in terms of the consultants' fees (independent poll centre Merdeka Centre and myself), will cost the Selangor government RM120,000, slightly more than 5% of an NKEA lab," he said, adding that one NKEA lab alone cost the government about RM2 million in terms of consultation fees.

"Will the end product be as 'good' as an NKEA lab? I cannot be the judge of that since the (economic) blueprint has not been written.

"But I think it will be at least on par if not better than an NKEA lab because of Merdeka Centre's experience in dealing with political issues and gauging what implementation plans can be more easily 'sold' and implemented and because of my own experience as a consultant, academic and political analyst," he said.

Ong is also one of the consultants hired by the Selangor government for its economic blueprint.

Staff shortage for NKEA labs

It is learnt that Pemandu, led by Minister in the Prime Minister Department Idris Jala, had to organise and run the NKEA labs at short notice. Most of the staff involved with the NKEA projects are those also working on the National Key Results Areas (NKRAs), another aspect of the Najib administration's reform efforts.

This had forced the outfit to rely heavily on external international consultants which included McKinsey, Boston Consulting Group and Ethos, with McKinsey leading the group and spearheading four labs. The rest are spread among the firms.

"If the existing Pemandu staff were not doing the NKRAs and perhaps had more consulting type experience, they probably would have been able to manage the NKEAs by themselves, without the help of external consultants.

"But because of the short time frame involved, they had to rely on the consultants... as a taxpayer, I would obviously not be happy with the amount of money spent on the consultants. As a consultant myself, I know that it could be done at a much cheaper rate. The Selangor blueprint is proof of this," said Ong.

Given that the overall cost of the NKEA labs are kept under the Official Secrets Act, FMT was told by sources that Pakatan Rakyat MPs will be seeking clarification on the matter when Parliament convenes mid-October.

Vision 2020 may not materialise

The NKEA labs were conducted to find ways to boost the economy of which the outcome was the identification of 131 entry point projects that the government claim can mobilise more than a RM1 trillion in private investments needed to realise the Economic Transformation Programme (ETP).

The ETP is one of the key programmes crafted by the Najib administration to realise Malaysia's developed nation status in 10 years although various leaders, including former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad, believe that Vision 2020 is doomed to fail.

Some of the projects identified are infrastructural, such as the KL mass transit system, the high-speed rail system to Singapore and Penang and the construction of a huge oil storage facility next to Singapore.

Despite widespread scepticism that the private sector would respond, 60% of the identified investments worth RM1.4 trillion would come from the private sector, 32% from government-linked companies and 8% from the government.

5th NCOI

2010-09-08T22:41:00.001+08:00

http://ncoi05malaysia.wordpress.com/2010/08/14/welcome-to-the-5th-national-congress-on-integrity/

YOUTH LEADERSHIP PROGRAM IN THE USA

2010-08-18T18:01:00.001+08:00

ATTENTION STUDENT LEADERS AND ADULT EDUCATORS: APPLY NOW FOR THE YOUTH LEADERSHIP PROGRAM IN THE USA

The U.S. Embassy's Public Affairs Section invites student leaders and adult educators to apply for the 2010 Youth Leadership Program. Five student leaders (age 15-17) and one adult educator from Malaysia will be selected to join other participants from ASEAN countries for a 25-day program (October 27 – November 20, 2010) hosted by Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Illinois. All costs will be covered by the U.S. Embassy.

This program is designed to promote high-quality leadership, civic responsibility, and community engagement among Southeast Asian future leaders. It will offer a practical examination of the principles of democracy and civil society as practiced in the United States and provide participants with training that allows them to develop their leadership skills. Participants will visit several communities in the United States, including DeKalb and Chicago, Illinois, and Washington, DC.

The experience will be intensive, academic, and highly interactive. The program sponsors seek energetic applicants who are ready to develop their skills in order to be effective leaders in their schools and communities.

Student applicants must…..
--be a Malaysian citizen
--be at least 15 years old and not more than 17 years old by the start of the exchange program (born after October 28, 1992 and before October 27, 1995) --be students in Form Three, Form Four or Form Five
--have good English-language skills
--have permission from parents (and schools, if missing any classes) to participate in the entire program.

Adult applicants must…..--be a Malaysian citizen
--be at least 30 years old and not more than 45 years old by the start of the exchange
--be active in working with youth in either a school or community setting
--be willing and able to meet periodically with selected students (SEAYLP participants) from all schools in their city during 2010-2011 to support their follow-up work
--have good English skills

The U.S. Embassy, in conjunction with its partner Northern Illinois University, will cover all participant costs.

Program details and electronic application forms may be viewed and downloaded fromhttp://malaysia.usembassy.gov/ylp.html

To request more program details, all interested candidates are asked to contact Helena Bridget, Public Affairs, American Embassy, 376 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur. Tel: (03) 2168-5106; fax: (03) 2148-9192 e-mail: publicaffairskl@gmail.com
The deadline for receipt of applications is September 8, 2010.

DAPSY on UUCA

2010-08-11T21:39:00.000+08:00

Kenyataan Media oleh Ketua Pemuda Sosialis DAP (DAPSY) dan Ahli Parlimen Rasah Loke Siew Fook pada Rabu, 11 Ogos 2010 di Petaling Jaya.

DAPSY mengutuk keputusan Kabinet untuk terus melarang pelajar universiti daripada menyertai parti politik

DAPSY berasa amat kesal dan mengutuk keputusan Kabinet pada hari ini yang terus melarang pelajar universiti daripada menyertai parti politik. Ini merupakan satu keputusan yang amat retrogresif dan mendukacitakan aspirasi golongan muda khususnya pelajar-pelajar di Institusi Penggajian Tinggi Awam (IPTA). Keputusan ini terus menafikan hak pelajar universiti tempatan dan bercanggah dengan Perlembagaan Persekutuan yang menjamin hak berpersatuan kepada setiap warganegara Malaysia.

Keputusan Kabinet pada hari ini menunjukkan bahawa Barisan Nasional langsung tidak mendengar pandangan rakyat khususnya golongan muda yang ingin melihat Akta Universiti dan Kolej Universiti (AUKU) dimansuhkan dan kebebasan akademik dikembalikan di kampus universiti tempatan. Keputusan ini juga membuktikan bahawa sayap Pemuda Barisan Nasional khasnya Pemuda UMNO dan Pemuda MCA semakin hilang taringnya kerana suara mereka yang mendesak supaya pelajar universiti dibenarkan untuk menyertai parti politik langsung tidak diberi pertimbangan oleh kerajaan. Malahan, suara Timbalan Menteri Penggajian Tinggi, Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah yang jelas ingin membawa perubahan ini juga tidak diendahkan oleh Menterinya sendiri.

DAPSY akan terus mendesak supaya AUKU dimansuhkan dan kebebasan pelajar universiti dikembalikan. DAPSY yakin bahawa sekiranya Pakatan Rakyat mengambil alih tampuk pemerintahan Kerajaan Persekutuan, agenda mendemokrasikan IPTA akan diberi perhatian yang serius dan kebebasan pelajar universiti termasuk menyertai parti politik akan dikembalikan.

Keputusan Kabinet hari ini akan menyemarakkan lagi semangat mahasiswa tempatan untuk bangkit membawa perubahan politik dan Barisan Nasional akan diberikan satu pengajaran yang lebih pahit oleh golongan muda pada pilihanraya umum yang ke-13 kelak.

LOKE SIEW FOOK

[NEWGATE] Meeting on 7th August is POSTPONED

2010-08-05T01:13:00.002+08:00

If you can't make it, send a proxy! Download proxy form from http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Newgate_USJ21/files/

7th August 2010 @ 3p.m. [NEWGATE]

2010-07-25T17:01:00.001+08:00

Newgate Purchaser Meeting with PWC, new developer, YB Teresa, YB Han

Posted by: "chew_chee_seng" cheeseng@mpsb.net chew_chee_seng

Fri Jul 23, 2010 5:13 am (PDT)

Dear all,

I have just attended a presentation by PWC's Executive Director Mr. Victor Saw to YB Teresa and YB Hannah at DAP Puchong office this afternoon. Together with them are Mr. Yogaraj and Mr. Donovan of PWC, Mr. Gary Chong of DAP Puchong, Mr. Pritpal and myself.

The PWC has given us a factual update that their Receiver & Manager team is ready to present to all Newgate Purchasers the new developer Sumbangan Lagenda Sdn Bhd, the proposed new scheme and the project revival time table. PWC has proposed the meeting to be held at 3.00pm, 7th August 2010 at a venue to be sourced by YB Teresa and YB Hannah. FYI, we need a hall to host at least 1000 purchasers.

In the interest of time as well as with the suggestion from YB Teresa, we have agreed that we should adjourn the Newgate Buyer Pro-tem Committee meeting proposed earlier (31st July) and to hold it in conjunction with the meeting called by PWC on the 7th August. As a matter of fact, it might not be necessary nor we have the time for the pro-tem committee meeting afterall as we believe everybody will be more concern about the new scheme and the new developer. Besides, I have also received verbal support from Mr. Pritpal that he will give us full support to our Newgate Buyer Committee.

So, please help spread the word around. Mark your calendar and make sure we all attend the meeting on the 7th August 2010. Hopefully we can have more than 75% of the purchasers turn up for the event.

Thank you very much.

Best Regards
Chew Chee Seng

The S&P Agreement has been duly signed! @ Newgate

2010-07-20T18:05:00.000+08:00

The S&P Agreement has been duly signed!

Posted by: "chew_chee_seng" cheeseng@mpsb.net chew_chee_seng

Mon Jul 19, 2010 6:04 pm (PDT)

Dear all,

I wish to inform you that the developer who was awarded the contract to revive the Newgate project has duly signed and executed the S&P. Thanks for the update from Mr. Albert of RHB Bank Debt Recovery department who is tasked to take care of the Newgate revival project.

We now shall switch our attention to the court action. Hopefully the court would dismiss Jessica Loke's injuction application. I am awaiting the news from PWC or other relevant party.

Thanks & Regards.
Chew

Paul (The Octopus), we need your help...

2010-07-20T17:56:00.000+08:00

Watch the FIFA World Cup Final 2010 Live on the Biggest Screen (15"x20") in Subang Jaya - 12th July 2010, 12.30 a.m. - 5 a.m., SS15 Wet Market Carpark

2010-07-05T20:46:00.001+08:00

Chronicle of events on Newgate project

2010-06-21T21:35:00.000+08:00

Re: Update from Newgate Protem Committee

Posted by: "Chew Chee Seng" cheeseng@mpsb.net chew_chee_seng

Sun Jun 20, 2010 6:22 am (PDT)

Dear all,

For the benefit of all purchasers of Newgate Avenue, here’s the chronicle of events from 2007 till now.

2007

A Newgate 21 Purchaser Protem Committee was formed in 2007 due to the fact that the appointed developer Pinggirran Setia Sdn Bhd has failed to deliver their obligation to construct the apartment according to contract’s terms and conditions.

June 2008.

RHB and PWC that they have given Pinggirran Setia until 30th June 2008 to submit its debt restructuring proposal.

Sept 2008

RHB Bank confirming that they are taking legal action against Pinggiran Setia Sdn Bhd (PS) for failing to service the loan. The PS’s contractor Ehsan Bina has completely removed the passenger hoist (Construction lift) from the site.

Oct 2008:

RHB has appointed PWC as receiver and manager (R&M) for the revival of Newgate Avenue project as of 22nd September. PWC will need at least 2 to 3 months to prepare the tender documents.

Feb 2009:

Tender was called.

March 2009:

Tender Closed.

June 2009:

PWC and RHB is going to award the tender to successful bidder.

August 2009:

PWC submitted the “winning Bid” to RHB Bank

Oct 2009:

RHB Bank wasn’t very happy with the repayment commitment from the “Winning Bid” and PWC were asked to revert RHB’s opinion to the developer

Nov 2009:

RHB Bank had officially informed PWC few days ago that they have accepted PWC selected winning developer. PWC on the other hand has delivered the letter of award/acceptance (LOA) to the winning developer called “Sumbangan Legenda Sdn Bhd” and I believe the developer has return the signed letter of acceptance by now.

Feb 2010:

Sales and Purchase Agreement 9SPA) is being drafted.

March 2010:

The execution of S&P has delayed due to some issue to do with Pinggiran Setia. The new developer Sumbangan Lagenda Sdn Bhd (SLSB) is still keen to pursue and is currently addressing the issue together with the PWC.

April 2010:

The former contractor Ehsan Bina has filed a caveat to the title of the Newgate project. This action threw a spanner into the SPA signing process between Pinggiran Setia (Managed by receiver manager PWC) and the winning bidder Sumbangan Lagenda Sdn Bhd. The inability of PWC to find an amicable solution with Ehsan Bina has caused the SPA not being signed until now.

Nevertheless, RHB Bank has decided to take over the role of PWC to negotiate with Ehsan Bina as it is as important to RHB Bank as it is to us to solve the caveat problem as soon as possible. As a matter of fact, I am sure you will be delighted to know that RHB Bank has walked the talk by sub-contract Sumbangan Lagenda to clear the bush of the project site and re-fence the whole project site.

May 2010:

RHB solved the problem with Ehsan Bina Sdn Bhd.

June 2010:

SPA is being signed.

At present:

PWC is looking for venue to call all purchasers for meeting with PWC and Sumbangan Lagenda Sdn Bhd (SLSB). We will be informed the proposed “NEW” terms and conditions. I am not sure PWC will call the Newgate Purchaser Committee to discuss with SLSB before meeting all the purchasers as promised earlier. Nevertheless, I think it makes no difference as all we want is the Newgate Project to be revived ASAP.

Thanks.

Interesting Feedback received @ www.dapsj.com

2010-06-12T21:50:00.001+08:00

Submitted on 09/06/2010 - 11:46am
Submitted by anonymous user: [180.73.150.xxx]

Submitted values are

Name: xxxxxx
NRIC: xxxxxx
Residential Address:
xxxxx

Business Address (If Any):
Mobile No / Contact: xxxxxx
Email: xxxxx
Issue / Complaint / Suggestion / Feedback:
i was at usj 3/1k at after 10am. i was in the car waiting for my husband. i was calling customers in the car when suddenly a nyamuk flew by. it didn't sting me. i managed to kemek it with papers. i scooped it up with a piece of paper to throw it out. but before tat i managed to see its legs. zebra legs. i suspected it as nyamuk aedes.

Karnival Futsal Padang Jelajah Selangor - MPSJ

2010-05-28T21:30:00.003+08:00

Hubungi saya di edwardling(at)gmail.com jika berminat : -

Tarikh : 5 Jun 2010 (Sabtu)

Tempat : Kompleks Sukan MPSJ, USJ 5

Pasukan : 32 Pasukan lelaki sahaja

Yuran - PeBT Zon 1 - RM100.00 telahpun dibayar

Johan RM1K - Mewakili Zon MPSJ ke pertandingan akhir di stadium mini shah alam

Medal, Sijil

Naib Johan - RM500.00

Medal, Sijil

Ketiga - RM300.00

Medal, Sijil

Keempat RM100.00

Medal, Sijil

8 orang pemain dan 2 orang pengurus pasukan.

Pemain mesti berumur bawah 32 tahun.

Mesti memakai seluar pendek, pelapik tulang kering & stokin bola.

Salinan I.C. diperlukan semasa menghantar borang.

Selepas Tsunami

2010-05-26T21:55:00.001+08:00

A good 4 part series documentary by Komas.

The 12th General Election did not only result in the change of government in four states or the lost of Barisan Nasional two-thirds majority in Parliament. It brought along many practices never seen before in the governmant system. In Selangor, a body under the state assembly was formed to monitor the use of public funds.

In the federal Parliament the increasing presence of opposition representatives has resulted in more serious debates. Today, UMNO and Barisan Nasional has started speaking the language of change. However, the real reform process is not as easy as voting on polling day.

This documentary discusses the meaning behind those promised changes.

Info on KOMAS - komas.org

A Big Pictures production for Pusat KOMAS.
36 mins.
Director: Anna Har
Producer: Brenda Danker
Executive Producer: Jerald Joseph
Editor: Chi Too

Pilihan Raya umum ke-12 bukan setakat melibatkan perubahan empat kerajaan negeri atau kehilangan kuasa dua pertiga Barisan Nasional di Parlimen. Ia membawa kepada pelbagai amalan yang tidak wujud dan namkapasing sebelum inin dapat dirasakan oleh rakyat buat julung kalinya. Di negeri Selangor satu badan di bawah Dewan Negeri ditubuhkan untuk memantau perbelanjaan dana awam.

Di peringkat Persekutuan , Parlimen kini nampak lebih serius dengan kehadiran wakil pembangkang. Hari ini, Barisan Nasional yang keras kepala sebelum 8 Mac lalu, juga sudah mula bertutur dalam bahasa prubahan. Bagaimanapun, perubahan yang sebenar bukanlah semudah membuang undi pada pilihan raya.

Selepas Tsunami is also available in Mandarin, Tamil, and Iban language.
Please contact Pusat KOMAS +603-7968 5415 to purchase the DVDs. Email: info@komas.org.

Part1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjzICTdaHXU
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fg1srKR0k2w
Part 3: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eWug84lIMmc
Part 4: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqldPY2Ko_A

The Fantastic Four

2010-05-25T22:39:00.001+08:00

DAPSY on UUCA 25th May 2010

2010-05-25T17:14:00.001+08:00

Press Statement

25th May 2010

DAP Socialist Youth (DAPSY) fully supports the abolition of the “anti-democratic” law of the University & University Colleges Act (UUCA) 1971.

In line with our stand, we strongly urge University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) to:

1. Withdraw the use of this draconian law on UKM political science students -- Muhammad Hilman bin Idham, Muhammad Ismail bin Aminuddin, Azlin Shafina Mohamad Adzha and Woon King Chai -- who were mere observers in the recent Hulu Selangor by-election campaign.

2. Reconsider its decision to charge these students for participating in a political process, a right granted to every citizen of Malaysia as provided for in the Federal Constitution.

Article 119 of the Federal Constitution in Malaysia specifically states that every citizen above the age of 21 is qualified to vote, which is a form of expression and participation in politics. Thus, the provisions under Section 15(5)(a) of the University & University College Act 1971 which disallows students from expressing support and participating in politics is in direct contradiction with the Federal Constitution of Malaysia.

The charging of the four students is a reflection of the retrogression of democracy and academic freedom in UKM. By right, UKM should encourage and preserve the academic freedom and pursuance of knowledge by students in order to further research in their respective fields of study.

We urge UKM to respect Article 119 of the Federal constitution that guarantees the freedom of Malaysian citizens to participate in the sovereignty of the democratic practices and processes.

Finally, we call upon Higher Education Minister YB Dato Seri Mohamed Khaled Bin Nordin to explain these actions since they seem to be against the spirit of the UUCA amendment in recent times which was to give more room to undergrads to express their political viewpoints.

Agree or disagree?

2010-05-25T13:41:00.002+08:00

Democratic principles enhance the workplace. Supervisors should incorporate democratic principles into their management practices.

Controlled Media in Malaysia

2010-05-21T12:57:00.000+08:00

http://thenutgraph.com/reporting-on-sibu

Reporting on Sibu

18 May 10 : 8.00AM

By Ding Jo-Ann
dingjoann@thenutgraph.comdingjoann at thenutgraph dot com

Investigating frontpage stories
after the Sibu by-election...
(© clarita | morguefile.com)

(Corrected at 5.55pm, 18 May 2010)

THE day after Sibu fell to the Pakatan Rakyat (PR) in a closely-watched and fought by-election, what kind of frontpage stories greeted Malaysians in the press?

With some newspapers relegating the news of the week to a second lead and others completely ignoring it as a front page lead, what can Malaysians discern about media independence and fairness?

The message is clear, especially when one compares the way the press reported Barisan Nasional (BN)'s win in the Hulu Selangor by-election with its loss in Sibu.

Reading the news

Here's a pictorial guide to some newspapers' front pages the day after the 25 April Hulu Selangor and 16 May 2010 Sibu by-elections. We've also included our own totally impromptu rating on the newspapers' fairness in reporting the results. Readers are also invited to put their own ratings and contest ours, if they wish, in the comments section below.

Berita Harian: Tawan vs menang

Hulu Selangor: A victorious P Kamalanathan, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin are featured prominently.

Sibu: Professor Datuk Dr Ibrahim Ahmad Bajunid being awarded the 2010 Academic Leadership Award at Universiti Malaysia Pahang is featured prominently. The Sibu results were relegated to the second lead story.

Fairness rating: D+

Utusan Malaysia: Tumbang vs ???

Hulu Selangor: "PKR tumbang" screamed Utusan Malaysia's headline following BN's win in Hulu Selangor. This was followed up by four full-page reports and pictures on the by-election.

Sibu: "Hadiah Hari Guru" said Utusan's headline following PR's narrow but significant win in Sibu. The second lead was about Najib receiving an International Telecommunication Union award. TheSibu results were only reported on page four in a single article.

Fairness rating: F

NST: Teachers Day

Hulu Selangor: A beaming Kamalanathan, Najib and Muhyiddin surrounded by supporters featured prominently. The results occupied the entire front page.

Sibu: A beaming Professor Ibrahim featured prominently, with the Sibu results made second lead. Apart from a candidate profile picture in the inside pages placed alongside BN's Robert Lau Hui Yew and independent candidate Narawi Haron, no other photographs were published of DAP's Wong Ho Leng.

Fairness rating: D+

The Star: Picture perfect

Hulu Selangor: Kamalanathan, Najib and Muhyiddin once again.

Sibu: (Corrected) Wong Ho Leng's only appearance on the front page of a traditional peninsular Malaysia English and Malay language newspaper, although the caption focuses on Wong's defeated opponent instead of him. It reads: "Lau congratulating Wong on his victory." Nevertheless, The Star deserves some credit for even putting Wong's picture, although tiny in comparison to Kamalanathan's, on its front page.

Fairness rating: B-

Teachers vs election

As much as our teachers should be respected and revered, it is curious how annual teacher's day celebrations could take precedence over the Sibu by-election results. And with all due respect to Professor Ibrahim and his award, what was his picture doing on newspapers' front pages instead of DAP's Wong Ho Leng's?

The one appearance of Wong Ho Leng,
receiving congratulations from BN's
Robert LauFrom a newsworthiness perspective, it is clear that the story of the day was the PR's victory over the BN in Sarawak, especially following the PR's loss in Hulu Selangor. Indeed, it was the topic people were tweeting and talking about all weekend. Teacher's Day, while important, clearly wasn't the hot news of the day.

This then raises the question of how newsworthiness is measured in newsrooms. For certain, there is no such thing as objectivity or neutrality since editors, journalists and even media companies carry with them their own personal biases and value systems.

But not being neutral doesn't mean a journalist or media outfit cannot be fair, accurate and accountable especially when writing the news. The traditional media clearly were not in its coverage of the Sibu by-election, and that only reinforces certain things.

One, ownership by BN parties or BN-friendly parties was likely part of the decision-making process of what was front-page news the morning after Sibu. This only goes to show how important it is for political parties or politicians not to own the media.

Two, how can the traditional media expect to retain its credibility if it was so clearly lopsided in its reporting of two recently-concluded by-elections? Barring any major environmental disaster of tsunami-like proportions, would any credible newspaper in the world have omitted to mention the closely-fought Sibu by-election on its front page on 17 May 2010?

If Utusan Malaysia were to be honest, it would ask itself, how does relegating the big news of the day to the inside pages demonstrate that they will and can report fairly, whatever their political preferences? And if its readers cannot trust the paper to report fairly, how will the paper survive with other new media players competing for readers' attention?

As it is, Utusan's coverage of the Sibu by-election, in contrast to the way it reported on Hulu Selangor, clearly demonstrates its lack of professionalism. Perchance, this situation has been brought about because the paper is owned by a political party — Umno — which has much at stake in the current political scenario? How else would one explain why Utusan's newsroom thought that it was more important for the public to be educated on gifts for teachers instead of the by-election results?

Handling bias

It is unrealistic to expect any news room to ignore its political leanings. The UK's The Guardianfor example is known for being partial to the Labour party. Guardian columnist Lucy Mangan's piece entitled "101 reasons to love our Tory government" and "How to learn to live with Tories" for example, clearly reveals her political leanings.

The Daily Telegraph on the other hand, has, perhaps unkindly, been branded by some as The Daily Torygraph because of its partiality to the Conservative party.

Screencap of Guardian's front page,
6 May 2010

Political preferences aside, when writing the news, these newspapers did not resort to underhanded tactics of denying front-page space to any political party during campaigning for the recent British general elections. In fact, on 6 May 2010, the day of Britain's general election,Guardian readers would have been greeted with a picture of Conservative leader David Cameron (right) on the front page of their morning paper. Interestingly, The Times, which is politically aligned to the Conservatives, had Labour party leader and then Prime Minister Gordon Brown on its front page on 6 May, albeit in a rather unflattering cartoon.

To put it simply, news is news, no matter who your editor may vote for or who owns your paper. And a rookie journalist would be able to tell you that "Goodies for teachers" is not more newsworthy than "Ho Leng wins Sibu with 398-vote majority".

The Nut Graph needs your support

Places the Prime Minister of Malaysia cannot visit...

2010-05-20T17:19:00.003+08:00

1. Rejang Park...

2. ???

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwNLT428PqU&feature=player_embedded

Firefighting experience

2010-04-21T05:10:00.009+08:00

It never dawned on my mind that I would be able to experience what it would be like to be a fireman.

As part of the Legislative Fellowship Program, I was given the extraordinary experience of a day in a life of a fireman.

We were brought to the Oklahoma State University's Fire Services Training Center.

Suiting up with "Phua Chu Kang" boots : -

Suited up and ready to go : -

Testing the oxygen mask (thought of bring it back with me to use when FRU send tear gas towards peaceful protesters in Malaysia) : -

All set to set the house on fire (I'm on the far right): -

(Fire!! Its burning hot - notice that I'm closest to fire) :-

Smiling whilst explosions happen in the background:-

Most firemen in Oklahoma are trained paramedics. Surprisingly, a majority of their calls are related to medical issues and not firefighting.

I would like to give my sincerest appreciation to all firemen all around the world who give their lives selflessly to save others. As a good fireman said "We must be the craziest people on earth. Whilst everyone is running out of a fire, we run right in". There were about 340 something firemen who died whist running into the towers of the 9/11 tragedy. Countless others have lost their lives all over the world in duty.

Here's to all the brother-sister hood of firefighting all around the world. Thank you for doing what you do!

When I grow up, I want to be a fireman. :)

Still demanding for free and fair elections in Malaysia

2010-04-20T05:22:00.002+08:00

April 12th 2010 : The fellows here in Oklahoma staged a peaceful demonstration demanding for the Malaysian Election Commission - calling for a free and fair election - reiterating that the requests made during the 2007 BERSIH rally has still not been met.

Usage of Indelible Ink - Not Met

Clean-up of Registered Voters Roll - Not Met

Abolition of Postal Votes - Not Met

Access to the Government controlled print and broadcast media for Opposition Parties - Not Met

With two by elections coming soon in Malaysia, the promise by the ruling coalitions' promise of a "Performance Now" seems to be mere "lip service" as it has been 3 years since one of the largest peaceful demonstrations in Malaysia in recent times but it is true that no serious action has been taken by the Election Commission.

Support DAPSY Selangor in the Hulu Selangor & Sibu By-Elections

2010-04-19T11:41:00.001+08:00

http://dapsyselangor.blogspot.com/

Visit to a "direct supervision jail"

2010-04-13T02:11:00.005+08:00

I had the good opportunity opportunity to a 3-hour in-depth tour of a Direct Supervision Jail in Tulsa named David L. Moss Criminal Justice Center a.k.a Tulsa County Jail.

Whilst Malaysia is still struggling with a basic fundamental human right issue such as death in custody, the United States has already begun using new centers such as this jail that uses a new and unique way to correct human behavior.

Quoting CCM Youth in their press statement July 21st 2009: -

The critical issue is not one of “Who’s next?” but “Who’s before?” Teoh Beng Hock is but the latest of a growing list of deaths under detention or custody or police action –

A Kugan, Samiyati Indrayani Zulkarnain Putra, Francis Udayappan, Dr Tai Eng Teck (the police officer was eventually convicted), V Vikines, Tharma Rajan, M Ragupathy, Syed Fadzil Syed Ibrahim, Hasrizal Hamzah, Prakash Moses, Kannan Kanthan, Ahmad Salleh, Ulaganathan Muniandy, Vivashanu Pilai, Ho Kwai See, Ravichandran Ramayah, Veerasamy Gopal, L. Yoges Rao

– just to name a few of the more celebrated deaths out of the untold numbers who died under police action, or inaction. Do we still remember these names? Or have they been neatly filed and forgotten?

This only the tip of the iceberg - what of the deaths of undocumented migrants or detainees in rural police stations that we don’t hear about in the media? According to our previous Deputy Home Minister Wan Fairuz Wan Salleh, he reported in Parliament that a staggering 1,531 died in custody in 4 years from 2003 to 2007. According to Suhakam, 1,300 foreign migrants died in detention centres in the past 6 years. These statistics are damaging, and damning. How many more talented youth do we have to sacrifice before we finally pull the plug on the potential for blatant abuse by enforcers of the law?

At Tulsa County Jail, cameras were not allowed inside so I only can describe what I saw with words.

1. There are no typically jail "bars". Only wooden and glass "rooms"

2. "Offender" control - one officer is placed live in "pods" (which consists of many rooms) 24 hours a day. "Offenders" roam freely within the pods, and typically there could be up to 100 offenders in a pod with only one officer!

3. The concept is based on mutual respect, that if you respect the offenders, they are more likely to respect you. However, if offenders break any rules, privileges are taken away, e.g. no t.v., no access to telephone (normally they can make as many as the like), recreation in gym, and socialism. Eventually if they don't behave they will be put into solitary confinement.

What amazed me was that how well respected the offenders were treated. In fact, this jailed seemed to have better facilities then some schools in Malaysia!

More details and benefits of these jails can be read here.

Oklahoma State Capitol

2010-04-08T23:54:00.006+08:00

[Top] That's me with the Oklahoma State Capitol in the back. It was modeled after the Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. (See below).

On top of the Oklahoma State Capitol there is a statue that looks like that: -

And here is me at the White House :

The Capitols are where elected representatives meet to make/discuss/debate/reject/revise laws. Notice that the buildings are built to be more "grand" then the white house? This was intentional. It is because they wanted to recognize that the people should be elevated more then a person in power. Let's look to the future where there's Makkal Sakthi! (People Power!)

Observations from OK house of representative committee meetings

2010-04-08T03:14:00.005+08:00

I attended a Oklahoma house of representative committee meeting today (Education committee).

The purpose of these committees is to first listen to new bills (proposals) - in this case related to education in the state and if passed, will go to the house of Representatives, and if passed, will go to the Senate for scrutiny and if passed will become law.

Here are some observations :

1. Everyone is civil ; meaning everyone respects one another, does not talk for too long, does not complain or argue unnecessary, admit if they have made a mistake, respects the chair & authority.

2. Great processes - new or revised bills are presented, questions are asked, representatives & experts on subject matter are present to answer any related questions, debated (if any).

3. Democratic process - After that, the single bill is voted upon. Here in OK state, they use an computerized vote where representatives press buttons and everyone can see who is voting in support (yea) or against (nay). See picture below (top right screen). Apologies for low quality photos as it was taken without wanting to interrupt the proceedings.

"Will there be debate", "will there be debate", is frequently heard repeated many times..if there is no debate, they go on to voting.

Back in Malaysia, we need to see more debate going on. Typically I do not see our members of parliament bringing any significant "bill" to begin with and do they even debate? Or do they vote along "coalition" lines? Do people who disagree get sidelined or put in cold storage?

LFP - Malaysia Delegate Biographies

2010-04-07T04:14:00.001+08:00

Legislative Fellows Program

March 28 – May 5, 2010

Malaysia - Delegate Biographies

Ms. Adriene Leong

Research Assistant

Office of Teresa Kok, Senior Minister for Investment, Industry, and Trade, Selangor State Government

Adriene is a research assistant in the office of Selangor state senior minister Teresa Kok. Her responsibilities include conducting research and making policy recommendations on investment, industry and trade. Prior to her current position, she was an intern with United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in Tokyo and following that, intern to Selangor State Assemblywoman Hannah Yeoh in Subang Jaya. Before entering civil service, Adriene worked as a copywriter developing marketing communications and advertising concepts.

Adriene received her undergraduate degree in communications from Charles Sturt University in Australia. She received a diploma in human rights and humanitarian assistance from the United Nations University in Tokyo, Japan. In 2009 Adriene graduated from Sophia University in Tokyo with a master’s degree in international business and development studies.

Mr. Boon Kia Meng

Parliamentary Affairs and Research Officer

Democratic Action Party

Kia Meng currently works for the Democratic Action Party (DAP) of Malaysia as a parliamentary affairs and research officer. His responsibilities include managing legislative research and press affairs as well as assisting in drafting the party platform. Prior to his work at DAP he served as a refugee status determination officer for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. He has also lectured on constitutional law and politics at Kolej Tunku Abdul Rahman.

Kia Meng holds a law degree from the University of Manchester and a master of arts in philosophy from King’s College, London.

Mr. Edward Ling

Political Secretary

Office of Assemblywoman Hannah Yeoh, Selangor State Government

Democratic Action Party

Edward Ling currently serves as the political secretary for Selangor State Assemblywoman Hannah Yeoh. His responsibilities include policy formation and implementation as well as political campaigning. He is concurrently involved with the Democratic Action Party, where he is the founder and chairman of the Bandar Subang Jaya branch. Outside of politics, Edward works as a business development manager for an IT company.

Edward received a higher diploma with distinction in software engineering and a diploma in computing and information technology from the Asia Pacific Institute of Information Technology. He graduated with distinction from Monash University in Australia with a bachelor’s degree in computing.

Tweet tweet

2010-04-06T23:14:00.004+08:00

I have started tweeting.

www.twitter.com/edward_ling

"Fellow" comrades with me

2010-04-01T10:23:00.005+08:00

ACYPL Expertise

Since 1966, the American Council of Young Political Leaders has been the pre-eminent catalyst for promoting shared knowledge and friendship among young elected, political, and policy leaders worldwide.

For more than 40 years, the ACYPL professional staff has developed and managed international exchange activities designed to introduce the next generation of leaders to diverse, and often complex, aspects of politics, governance, public policy making, and civil society both in the United States and around the world. Our programs provide opportunities for oftentimes divergent groups to explore common concerns and points of difference. They enhance participants’ ability to shape broader and well-informed perspectives about the world and make them better informed decision-makers at home. An ACYPL international exchange provides young leaders with a unique opportunity to develop and practice leadership and public diplomacy skills that serve them throughout their lives.

Candidates selected by Merit

ACYPL considered a large group of candidates for this important fellowship. 3 of us Malaysians have joined five other young political leaders from Indonesia & Taiwan as part of this program managed by ACYPL under the sponsorship of the US Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

The two other Malaysians selected for this program are Adriene Leong and Boon Kia Meng. Adriene was previously an intern at Hannah Yeoh's office, and is currently research assistant (as a civil servant) to Teresa Kok. Kia Meng is currently Lim Kit Siang's parliamentary affairs and research officer. Kia Meng & myself are party members. I have confirmed the fact that candidates from other parties including the ruling BN coalition also applied for this program.

L-R (Kia Meng, Edward, Adriene)

Selected for - the Legislative Fellowship Program (LFP)

2010-03-30T09:02:00.003+08:00

I have been selected for a legislative fellowship program (LFP) by the American Council of Young Political Leaders (ACYPL).

Here an excerpt from their invitation letter : -

Mr. Edward Ling

Selangor, Malaysia

Dear Edward:

Congratulations on your selection as a delegate for the American Council of Young Political Leaders’ (ACYPL)Legislative Fellows Program (LFP) that will take place from March 28 – May 5, 2010. You have been chosen based on your outstanding professional accomplishments as well as your potential as a future leader in Malaysia. As a LFP participant you will be joining nearly 100 fellows from 16 countries for programming in Washington, DC and around the United States. Furthermore, in becoming an ACYPL alumnus you will join a distinguished network of over 7500 individuals from the Unites States and around the world, many who have achieved national and international prominence.

Through a generous grant from the United States Department of State, ACYPL will conduct a four-part exchange to take place over 20 months that will include 36 young professionals from Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and the United States. Each international participant will take part in a four-week internship in Illinois, Ohio, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Washington, or Missouri. Your American host will then travel to your country for 10-14 days of joint outreach and capacity building activities.

Your program will be an important professional development opportunity; one designed to strengthen your leadership and public diplomacy skills and enhance your knowledge of the United States as well as international relations. Specifically, the LFP is intended to enhance your understanding of the US governance, politics and policy making and the role of civil society plays in the American political process. While your schedule will include many professional meetings, we understand the importance and value of cultural activities and free time.

Throughout your program, you will meet and share meals with government officials, business and community leaders, members of the media and others leaders who will be interested in your insights and perspectives. With this in mind, we encourage open dialogue and conversation between fellow delegates and American counterparts with the hope that you will establish long-standing professional relationships and friendships that will be maintained long after your exchange.

I would like to thank the U.S. Department of State & ACYPL for this wonderful opportunity! I will do my best to blog as often as possible on what I am learning on this program.

Ayah, ayah!

2010-01-25T21:07:00.001+08:00

A man came home from work and his children ran to him and called out ‘Ayah! Ayah!’.
His neighbor got very upset and said to him, “Can you please tell your children not to call you ‘Ayah’?”
The man asked, “Why?”
The neighbor retorted, “Because my children call me ’Ayah’ too. They might get confused and mistake you to be their father.”

What are the COPS doing? I suggest they learn to use the internet

2010-01-11T14:23:00.001+08:00

;">

Cops deny latest church attack

UPDATED

By Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 11 — Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Ismail Omar has denied that a Sidang Injil Borneo (SIB) church in Seremban was attacked today.

The SIB church in Negri Sembilan’s capital was attacked today with a firebomb, leaving scorch marks on its front doors.

The doors of the SIB church in Seremban show signs of scorching.

The attack did not affect the church interior and was believed to have occurred early this morning.

“What I know is that it did not happen. Where did you get this information from? That is what I want to know. You must double check,” Ismail told reporters after attending a briefing for foreign diplomats on the current situation in the country.

Rasah member of Parliament, Loke Siew Fook visited the church soon after the attack and confirmed the incident.

“The worship hall was not affected, the attack only affected the front door,” Loke told The Malaysian Insider.

Meanwhile, Negri Sembilan police chief Datuk Osman Salleh said a report has been lodged over the incident, but refused to provide any details.

Ismail gave his assurance that the police will continue to monitor the situation to ensure national security.

“I would like to tell the public to carry on with their daily course [of life] and ... my observation shows that there is no problem.

“That is the fact, the fact is from ... the police. I want to remind people to please use the Malaysian Control Centre in Bukit Aman, which is [in operation] 24-hours [daily],” Ismail said.

He added that the public should not believe news that is not verified.

“We should be more matured and encourage Malaysians to be more objective ... in approaching the situation in our country,” he said.

Ismail also confirmed that no arrest has been made as the police must first conduct an investigation.

“Every information we receive must be investigated and verified to ensure that we arrest the right person.

“I am aware that there are names mentioned in the blogs but the police process [is such], we want to be sure we get the right person,” he said.

Networking Dinner to Celebrate Christmas with DAPSY

2009-12-09T22:23:00.001+08:00

DAPSY Selangor is organising a networking dinner to celebrate the Christmas season in 2009 as part of our efforts to engage the youth and be seen with the people, as well as attract the interest of the younger generation who at large still tend to shun politicians.

The details of the event are as follows:
Venue: Restaurant Chef & Brew @ Plaza Damansara, Medan Setia 2, Bukit Damansara, Kuala Lumpur
Date: 19 December 2009 (Saturday)
Time: 7.00pm onwards till late.
Dress code: Smart casual
Menu: Ala carte
Cuisine: Western, Fusion, Chinese, limited Japanese dishes
Price: RM35/++ per person (approximation for 3 course meal, excluding drinks)
Reservation : 40 pax maximum

The restaurant is chosen because of its cosy ambience and ample parking space. It is located near Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s former residence.

The map to the place can be located at the following link: http://maps.google.com/maps?q=3.149600,101.653000&z=16&om=1

Driving directions to Chef & Brew:

If driving from PJ Hilton area:

1.Head northeast toward Persiaran Barat21 m
2.Turn left at Persiaran Barat0.9 km
3.Turn left to merge onto Jalan Timur0.4 km
4.Turn right at Exit Jalan Timur14 m
5.Take the ramp onto Lebuhraya Persekutuan1.5 km
6.Take the ramp onto Lebuhraya Sprint1.9 km
7.Slight left to stay on Lebuhraya Sprint3.2 km
8.Take the exit toward Persiaran Bukit Kiara0.2 km
9.Turn right at Persiaran Bukit Kiara0.8 km
10.Continue onto Jalan Setia Murni0.4 km
11.Turn right toward Jalan Medan Setia 117 m
12.Turn right at Jalan Medan Setia 10.1 km
13.Continue onto Jalan Medan Setia 2
Destination will be on the left79 m

The guests of honour are:
1. YB Jenice Lee
2. YB Anthony Loke

The theme for the evening: Spirit of Giving (Giving your lives for a better Malaysia)

Agenda:
7.00 pm - Arrival of Guests (Registration)
7.30 pm - Dinner
8.30 pm - Getting to know each other
9.00 pm - Welcome speech by YB Jenice Lee
9.10 pm - Dialogue with your elected reps
10.00 pm - Closing Speech by YB Anthony Loke
10.30 pm - Good Night and Merry Christmas!

Please help to publicise this event to your contacts who may or may not be party members. It's open to all professionals especially to the younger generation below the age of 40.

Please inform me at 019-316 7027 of your attendance and the number of guests attending via sms or email me by 17 Dec 2009 (deadline).

We have reserved seats for only 40 persons (First come, first served basis). We will officially come up with a full list of names confirmed attending.

A registration name list will also be prepared to confirm the attendance of guests for that night.

If you need further details, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you very much and see you there!

Yours faithfully,

Ashvin Raj
DAPSY Selangor Committee Member

Public Forum:Whither the Constitution?

2009-12-07T11:26:00.001+08:00

Disappointments

2009-12-07T11:25:00.001+08:00

The heights by great men reached and kept

Were not obtained by sudden flight;

But they, while their companions slept,

Were toiling upward in the night.

Standing on what too long we bore,

With shoulders bent and downcast eyes,

We may discern-unseen before-

A path to higher destinies!

~Longfellow

Murderers Rule

2009-10-28T17:52:00.000+08:00

http://asiasentinel.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2116&Itemid=164

Getting Away with Murder in Malaysia

Tag it:

Written by Our Correspondent
Monday, 26 October 2009
It's best to be connected to the ruling national coalition See also: Malaysian Aide's July Death 'Probably Homicide' On July 16, according to the testimony of a Thai pathologist, Teoh Beng Hock, a 29-year-old aide to an opposition politician, was probably beaten during a marathon questioning session, sodomized, strangled unconscious, dragged to a window of the Malaysia Anti-Corruption Commission in Kuala Lumpur and thrown to his death. The country's law enforcement establishment maintains that Teoh committed suicide by leaping from the MACC building after the inquiry was concluded into irregularities in his boss's accounts. But it is far from the first "suicide" in custody and what happened to Teoh happens all too frequently when the luckless collide with the powerful in Malaysia. His real killers are unlikely ever to be identified. As many as 350 people have died in custody since 1990. The privileged are rarely brought to trial. The most infamous recent case before Teoh's is that of Altantuya Shaariibuu, a 28 year-old Mongolian translator who was murdered in 2006 by two bodyguards of then-Deputy Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak. Altantuya had been jilted by Najib's best friend, Abdul Razak Baginda, and was demanding money from him. Although numerous witnesses and evidence connected Najib to the affair, he was never questioned or put on the witness stand, nor was his chief of staff, Musa Safri, who Baginda said in a cautioned statement he approached about getting Altantuya from ceasing her harrassment. His two bodyguards were convicted of the murder although one, in his confession, said the two men were to be paid RM100,000 to kill her. The court never asked who would pay the money. The confession wasn't allowed in court. Baginda was acquitted without having to put on a defense and promptly left the country and Najib was eventually named Prime Minister. Such questionable cases go back to at least the early 1980s when Sultan Mahmud Iskandar of Johor was dubbed the "killer king" by the British tabloids after he shot a trespasser to death on his property. He also reportedly assaulted and killed a golf caddy who was said to have laughed when the sultan missed a golf stroke and he maimed the caddy's brother. He later was alleged to have assaulted and injured a hockey coach, kicking off a constitutional crisis that led to former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad's removal of legal immunity from prosecution for all of Malaysia's nine sultans, although Iskandar was never either arrested or jailed. There are plenty more. In 1988 an attractive young woman named Mustakizah Jaafar, who owned a video rental business in Malacca, was found hacked to death by unknown assailants. Mustakizah reportedly was pregnant at the time of her death. She was believed to be having an affair with Megat Junid Megat Ayob, the onetime UMNO deputy home affairs minister, who died in January 2008 of cancer. No one was ever charged with Mutakizah's murder. The widespread gossip about Megat Junid's connection with Mustakizah didn't do his political career any harm. He was ultimately named Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister in 1997 although he lost his parliamentary seat two years later and retired from politics. In 2002 the decomposed body of Haslezah Ishak, the attractive young second wife of Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa, second in line to the throne of Perak, whom he had met in a karaoke lounge, was found under a bridge, clad in a bra and jeans. Four men, including a palace aide, a bomoh or witch doctor, a fisherman and a carpenter were arrested and jailed for the murder. No one was ever arrested or questioned for hiring them to kill her although suspicion fell on the prince's wife, Rajah Mahani, who had been publicly consulting witch doctors over her suspicion that Haslezah had put a spell on her husband. In 2003, another attractive young woman, Norita Shamsudin, was found murdered in an apartment in a Kuala Lumpur suburb. A night club guest relations officer, Norita had been rumored to be having an affair with Shahidan Kassim, then chief minister of the state of Perlis. Although another individual was arrested and charged with the murder, he was later declared not guilty and no one else was ever charged. According to local news reports, the inspector general of police, Mohd Bakri Omar, classified the case under Malaysia's Official Secrets Act and no details were ever released. Earlier this year, authorities finally completed an inquest into the 2007 death of beautiful ethnic Indian actress Sujatha Krishnan, who also worked part-time as a secretary to S.Vell Paari, chief executive officer of Maika Holdings and the son of S. Samy Vellu, the head of the Malaysian Indian Congress, a component of the ruling national coalition. Sujatha died in a hospital in a Kuala Lumpur suburb of Klang three days after she had been rushed in for treatment. Her body was cremated almost immediately after her death. The coroner ruled she had died after poisoning herself by drinking poison. The family vainly requested an investigation into her death. For those at the bottom end of Malaysia's power spectrum, life can be considerably tougher if suspicion falls on them. According to the reform organization Malaysians Against Death Penalty and Torture (MADPET), a distressing number of suspects have died in custody. "Relying merely on data provided by the government, it has been disclosed that there have been 150 deaths from 1990 until 2004 (10.7 per year), 108 deaths between 2000 and 2006 (18 per year), and, 85 deaths between 2003 and 2007 (21.25 per year)," the organization said. According to a 2003 report by the Asian Human Rights Commission – the same year Norita was killed ‑ statistics released in Malaysia's parliament in October of that year by the Home Ministry, showed 23 people died in police custody between 2002 and July 2003. Of those, 16 died in 2002 although according to the report, other figures indicated that 18 had died in custody in the first nine months of 2002 alone. Parliament was told in October 2002 that a total of 34 persons had died in police custody since 2000 ‑ six in 2000, 10 in 2001 and 18 from January to September 2002. According to the report, then-Deputy Home Minister Chor Chee Heung denied that methods of torture used to obtain information from suspects led to their deaths. He claimed that the majority of deaths were the result of attempts to escape from police custody. Typical seemed to be the case of Hasrizal Hamzah, who had been detained on suspicion of murder in October of 2003. According to a senior assistant police commissioner, Harizal confessed to the murder and then, as he was being moved to a new location, supposedly shoved the accompanying policeman aside despite being handcuffed, and leapt over a balcony to his death. Earlier this year, the Indian community was enraged by the death of a 22-year-old named Kugan Ananthan who was detained on Jan. 15 on suspicion of stealing luxury cars. He reportedly collapsed during questioning and died on Jan. 20 from "acute pulmonary edema," or fluid in the lungs. However, after his body was released to his family, an autopsy found that he had suffered from internal bleeding in his heart, left lung, spleen, kidneys and scalp area. The soles of his feet had been beaten and the back of his neck and spine area were bleeding. His back was covered with contusions, beating marks and bruises. He had sustained more than 10 serious burn marks, probably as the result of being burned by a heated v-shaped iron bar. He had also been starved during the entire time he was being tortured, allegedly by as many as seven police officers, his family charged. "There is a clear lack of supervision, medical care and concern for the general well-being and rights of suspects while under police remand," the Human Rights Commission said in its 2003 report. It does not appear that anything has changed. The odds are that the cases involving both Kugan and Teoh will end up the same way scores of others have.

inCORRECT, inCORRECT, inCORRECT

2009-10-23T12:35:00.000+08:00

Lest we forget...

Thursday October 22, 2009

Case against Lingam closed

KUALA LUMPUR: The case against Datuk V.K. Lingam in connection with the alleged brokering of judges, which was featured in a video clip, has been closed with no further action.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Nazri Abd Aziz said in a written reply to Lim Guan Eng (DAP-Bagan) on Monday that the investigation showed no criminal offence had been committed in the appointment of judges.

“After ACA officers investigated those involved in the video clip, it was concluded that there is no abuse of power.

“The Attorney-General (A-G) has decided that no further action is needed,” he said.

It was reported that four investigation papers were opened in connection with the Lingam video clip.

Three were sent to the A-G’s Chambers while one remained with the then Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA), now Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission.

Of the three with the A-G’s Chambers, two were closed due to insufficient evidence while the remaining one was awaiting further investigation.

Nazri said the remaining paper was later classified by the A-G as “no further action” as there were no suspects who could confirm the handling of documents in the appointment of High Court judges.

A Royal Commission of Inquiry was conducted in the Lingam video case which showed the prominent lawyer purportedly involved in brokering a deal that manipulated the appointment of judges.

The video implicated five people, including Lingam, former chief justices Tun Eusoff Chin and Tun Ahmad Fairuz Sheikh Abdul Halim, tycoon Tan Sri Vincent Tan and the then Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor who was in charge of legal affairs.

Teoh was murdered (80%)

2009-10-21T16:35:00.000+08:00

Teoh's death 80% homicide: Thai DocOct 21, 09 11:16am
Renowned Thai pathologist Dr Pornthip Rojanasunand made several explosive allegations at the Teoh Beng Hock inquest this morning.

Among others, Pornthip suggested that the political aide could have been strangled before falling from the 14th floor of Plaza Masalam.

The colourful doctor noted that the marks on Teoh's neck indicated the possibility of 'manual strangulation'.

Furthermore, she pointed out that Teoh's skull fracture was not typical of an injury from a fall.

In another startling revelation, Pornthip said the injury to the deceased's anus could have been caused by penetration with an object before his fall.
'80 percent homicide, 20 percent suicide'
In view of this, her conclusion is that Teoh's death was 80 percent homicide and 20 percent suicide.

The pathologist also disagreed with the opinion of forensic experts that Teoh 'fell to his death consciously', saying that the deceased could have been unconscious.

She also cited three reasons for making the conclusion. These were:

1) The autopsy report indicated that he was alive when landing on the ground, but she found no protection injuries on the body.

2) She found wounds that looked like pre-fall injuries.

3) The chest injuries were result of primary impact.

Pornthip, 54, was testifying as an expert witness at the inquest which is being held to determine the cause of Teoh's death.

She is the director and co-founder of the Thai Justice Ministry's Central Institute of Forensic Science and is well-known for investigating complicated homicide cases.

Teoh, the 30-year-old political secretary to Selangor executive councillor Ean Yong Hian Wah, had been summoned to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission office on the 14th floor of Plaza Masalam to be questioned over irregularities in the disbursement of state funds on July 15.

He was found dead on the fifth floor service corridor of the building the following day.

Private sector and its agencies to use Bahasa Malaysia

2009-10-20T11:11:00.001+08:00

> Berita Harian front-paged a report about the proposed amendment to the National Language Act 1963 and the Education Act 1996 to empower Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) to penalise the private sector and agencies that fail to use Bahasa Malaysia in official dealings.

The Attorney-General Chambers is studying the matter. Under the proposed law, action would be taken against those not using Bahasa Malaysia during meetings, preparation of minutes and official functions.

A draft of the proposed amendments to the Acts has been discussed with the Education Ministry and would be tabled in Parliament.

The report quoted DBP director-general Datuk Termuzi Abdul Aziz as saying it was timely the Government empowered the agency.

Currently, he said DBP could only advise the private sector and its agencies to use Bahasa Malaysia. He said a circular had been issued in 2006 for the language to be used during official functions at all government departments.

He added that some countries, including Slovakia, were already penalising those who did not use the national languages during official functions.

He said Malaysia should be proud because Bahasa Malaysia ranked fifth in the world in terms of the number of speakers.

DAP National Alternative Budget 2010

2009-10-08T16:51:00.002+08:00

It is available online at the DAP website: http://dapmalaysia.org/newenglish/DAP_Budget_2010_en.pdf

Youth Speak Out: Engaging in Democracy and Grasping Opportunity

2009-08-25T21:34:00.000+08:00

Youth Speak Out: Engaging in Democracy and Grasping Opportunity

RAISE YOUR VOICE, SHARE YOUR IDEAS, and GET INVOLVED IN DEMOCRACY! Submit your essay on democracy, and get your free ticket to the world’s largest gathering of democracy and human rights activists in Jakarta, Indonesia, in 2010!

The World Youth Movement for Democracy (www.wymd.org), a youth network of the World Movement for Democracy (www.wmd.org), is pleased to announce the launch of its Global Essay Contest. Fifteen winners (3 in each region: Asia, Central/Eastern Europe & Eurasia, Middle East & North Africa, Latin America & Caribbean, and Sub-Saharan Africa) will be invited to participate in the upcoming 6thAssembly of the World Movement for Democracy in Jakarta, Indonesia, in April 2010.

Questions: Democracy has been practiced in different ways and in different contexts. We believe there are core universal democratic values and aspirations that we all share, which transcend our differences, even though we live in different cultures, speak different languages, and eat different food. The purpose of this essay contest is to highlight personal engagement in democracy by promoting critical thinking about the role of young people in democracy and to connect youth with broader democracy movements. The questions posed below for this essay contest aim to challenge youth to write about their perspectives on democracy and their understanding of democracy activism, particularly their own.

Essays are required to address one or more of the following questions:

What democratic spaces exist for young people in your society? What do you see as democratic values in your society? How do you engage with them?

How can democracy help address your personal and social concerns (poverty, access to education, pandemics, inequality etc.)? How do you and others in your community address these concerns?

Describe and explain how a specific event or instance changed your perception of democracy.

Submissions: Please submit your essay by 15 September 2009 via email attachment as a Word document or a PDF. Please make sure to clearly designate, in the body of your email, your full name, age, gender, physical address, and phone number, to the relevant regional email address listed below. Essays can be submitted in Arabic, English, French, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish, and the essay must be no more than 2,000 words. Authors must be between 18 and 30 years old.*
· Asia: WYMD.ASIA@GMAIL.COM
· Central and Eastern Europe & Eurasia: WYMD.EURASIA@GMAIL.COM
· Middle East & North Africa: WYMD.MENA@GMAIL.COM
· Latin America & Caribbean: WYMD.LAC@GMAIL.COM
· Sub-Saharan Africa: WYMD.AFRICA@GMAIL.COM
To submit your essays via fax, please fax: +1.202.378.9889. Please provide your personal details in the fax cover sheet.

Timeline:
June 2009 – Launch of the Essay Contest
September 15, 2009 – Deadline for the essay submission
October 18, 2009 – Announcement of Regional Winners
December 2009 – Regional winner essays posted on website in English
April 11-14, 2010 – World Movement for Democracy Sixth Assembly
April 14, 2010 – Announcement of global winners at World Movement for Democracy Sixth Assembly closing ceremony

Review Process: The submitted essays will be reviewed by regional committees each of which will determine three regional winners. The regional winners will be announced on the World Youth Day for Democracy (October 18). If needed, each of the regional committees will also translate the 3 winning essays into English to post on the World Youth Movement for Democracy Website.
Essays will be evaluated based on:
Composition;
Clarity;
Creativity; and
Practicality.
Prizes: The 15 regional winners (3 from each region) will be provided with sponsorship to cover travel and other expenses related to their participation in the World Movement for Democracy’s Sixth Assembly in Jakarta, Indonesia, in April 2010.* The Assembly, bringing together over 500 democracy activists, scholars, and practitioners from over 100 countries, will provide an opportunity for the Regional Winners to attend workshops and connect with hundreds of civil society leaders from around the world. The conclusion of the contest is the announcement of two global winners at the Assembly’s closing ceremony.

For further information on the Global Youth Essay Contest, please visit: www.wymd.org. If you have any specific questions, please contact Cecilia Andersen at: ceciliah@ned.org.

Good luck and we look forward to reading your essays!

*Please note that you must be over age 18 by April 11, 2010 to qualify for participation in the World Movement for Democracy Assembly, if you are a Regional Winner.

This Essay contest is generously sponsored by the Hurford Foundation.

Minister of "culture"?

2009-08-11T14:54:00.001+08:00

Culture of insulting reports who use the International language of English?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyL3zR-TOPI

Interesting Article from Berita Harian

2009-07-21T18:49:00.003+08:00

http://www.bharian.com.my/Current_News/BH/Sunday/Rencana/20090719001247/Article/index_html

Kematian Teoh timbulkan pelbagai spekulasi politik
Oleh Zainul Ariffin zainul@nstp.com.my
KEMATIAN Teoh dijadikan polemik dan isu politik tanpa mengambil kira kesedihan yang melanda anggota keluarganya.
Oportunisme boleh rampas kesedihan untuk jadi modal siasahADAKAH ahli dan penyokong Pakatan Rakyat saja yang berasa sedih ke atas kematian Teoh Beng Hock? Tentu sekali jika dilihat dari muka-muka sama yang bergegas mengepalai tunjuk perasaan apabila saja ada kejadian seperti ini berlaku, beratur untuk perhatian jurugambar dan pemberita, dan di dalam kepala menghitung laba politik yang mungkin diperoleh.
Oportunisme politik boleh merampas kesedihan untuk dijadikan modal politik. Kematian boleh dijadikan pemangkin untuk naikkan kemarahan, dan juga batu hikmat menarik sokongan. Terlalu sedikit cubaan untuk menenangkan keadaan. Di dalam kes Teoh setiap kenyataan seakan-akan berbau politik. Jika orang marah, apikan lagi. Jika bersedih, apa lagi, kenangkanlah nasib mereka dan paling penting, cari pihak yang perlu dipertanggungjawabkan. Sudah tentulah Suruhanjaya Pencegahan Rasuah Malaysia (SPRM) perlu bertanggungjawab kerana mendiang Teoh kali terakhir berada di pejabat berkenaan dan mayat beliau dijumpai berhampiran. SPRM juga menemuduga Teoh hingga awal pagi.
Tanggungjawab SPRM ialah untuk menyiasat sepenuhnya kejadian itu, dan jika ada kesilapan atau kelemahan, atau kecuaian dan salah laku di pihaknya, tindakan perlu diambil. Ia mesti telus dan tegas. Tetapi ia sepatutnya tidak perlu dipertanggungjawabkan untuk menangkis tuduhan yang tidak berasas, menjawab tohmahan, dan melayan agenda politik orang lain. Segala keraguan dan persoalan mesti dijawab, tetapi mestilah tidak yang bermotifkan politik. Yang lebih penting, tanggungjawab SPRM ialah supaya ia tertumpu kepada tugasnya. Siasatan yang masih ada, termasuk terhadap ahli politik yang bertempik dan berkumpul di luar pejabatnya, yang cuba menimbulkan syak dan wasangka terhadap integriti agensi itu, mestilah diteruskan. Kita faham ramai yang marah. Kita juga tahu ramai yang bersedih dengan kematian Teoh. Semua orang ada abang, adik, anak, suami, kawan dan faham serta simpati kepada pemergian orang muda seperti Teoh yang masa hadapannya nampak cerah.
Bukan orang Cina atau penyokong Pakatan Rakyat saja yang tahu marah dan mahukan keadilan. Namun, elemen perkauman dimasukkan oleh beberapa ahli Dewan Negeri Selangor apabila mereka disiasat sama ada menyalahgunakan peruntukan dan kuasa oleh SPRM, walaupun anggapan ini salah kerana ada Adun Melayu disiasat juga. Namun keraguan timbul, terutama di kalangan bukan Melayu bahawa SPRM, yang semestinya seperti agensi kerajaan lain banyak pekerja Melayu, secara selektif memilih bukan Melayu untuk disiasat. Apabila mangsa kemalangan pula orang bukan Melayu, yang sebelumnya disiasat orang Melayu, bertambah hebatlah spekulasinya. Di alam maya internet tidak susah mencari kesimpulan berunsur perkauman. Adakah ini politik? Peduli apa kesannya kepada negara asalkan popular. Walau dihias dengan kata-kata manis seperti hak asasi ataupun ketelusan atau keadilan, yang jelas, kadang-kadang, agenda perkauman nyata. Kenapa perlu menanam kebencian, meniup api kemarahan terhadap agensi kerajaan yang banyak juga penyokong mereka bekerja di dalamnya? Dengar sajalah perkataan kesat yang dilemparkan kepada polis dan sebagainya? Keadilankah yang dituntut atau kebencian digalakkan? Adakah strategi untuk menggalakkan syak terhadap agensi kerajaan. Dulunya kehakiman kemudian polis, kini SPRM? Apakah nilai kepemimpinan politik jika apa yang digalakkan ialah membenci dan menghasut? Di manakah fahaman politik atau ideologi mulia? Apabila saja ada perkara seperti ini, bergegas-gegas muka yang sama mengeluarkan kenyataan yang pada asasnya menanam syak kepada institusi. Cukuplah dengan membenci pimpinan kerajaan. Mereka orang politik, mereka boleh terima semua ini. Tetapi pegawai kerajaan bukan orang politik; mereka jalankan tugas dan arahan. Sedarlah jika setiap kali institusi kita dicerca dan dihina, lama-kelamaan akan ada yang terlekat. Makin lama semakin tipis kepercayaan kita. Pepatah Inggeris berkata: 'You reap what you sow' jika ada pihak yang mahu popular dengan menabur syak wasangka kepada orang lain, lama kelamaan dia juga akan menerima kesannya. Katalah ditakdirkan pembangkang memerintah, tidak akan reputasi institusi dan agensi yang dipijak-pijak akan kembali pulih serta merta. Apa yang runtuh sukar dibina semula. Institusi akan terus dipandang serong, kepercayaan rakyat akan tetap menipis. Adakah kehakiman atau polis yang sentiasa dikutuk akan jadi baik tiba-tiba dan terus diterima rakyat. Hakisan tidak boleh dipatah balik, malah ia selalu membawa kepada keruntuhan. Kenapa, contohnya perlu kerajaan Selangor mahukan pakar bedah swasta untuk siasat kematian Teoh? Adakah pakar hospital kerajaan tidak layak? Atau tidak boleh dipercayai? Kenapa Menteri Besar Selangor, seorang Melayu, meragui kebolehan orang sebangsanya bertindak dengan tulus dan adil? Bukankah banyak pegawai agensi atau institusi kerajaan orang Melayu? Adakah polis, hakim, guru, penyiasat, doktor, pensyarah Melayu semuanya tidak boleh dipercayai? Percayalah, inilah yang berlaku apabila kita sama naik menabur syak pada agensi dan institusi kerajaan. Layari sahaja laman internet untuk mengetahui apa yang dikatakan mengenai institusi-institusi yang kebanyakan diketuai dan dipenuhi oleh orang Melayu. Bukan ahli dan penyokong parti politik saja yang mahukan keadilan. Orang lain pun begitu. Tetapi jangan semua institusi diruntuh. Janganlah termakan kata-kata orang, yang agendanya kadang-kadang hendak mempersoalkan kebolehan orang Melayu.

TAWAS

2009-07-21T16:59:00.001+08:00

The procedure for application of this scheme is as follows: -
• This scheme is provided free-of-charge (no registration fee is required).
• The parents or guardian would need to register through the official registration forms only.
• Every registration needs to be made by the parents/guardian with the accompanying documents as follows: -
• The newborn baby's birth certificate and MyKid (original to be cited)
• The identification cards of both parents/guardian (original to be cited)
The conditions for the application of TAWAS: -
• Any such application would need to satisfy either one of the two conditions below: -
Condition #1: -

All such application is open to 'Anak Selangor', meaning to say the child is a citizen of D.Y.M.M. Sultan Selangor which fuflfills these criterias: -
1. Malaysian citizen AND
2. Born in Selangor or outside of Selangor starting from 1st January 2008, AND
3. Whether: -
• Either the mother or father was born in Selangor, OR
• Either the mother or father was born in Kuala Lumpur before 1st February 1974
Condition #2: -

All such application is open to 'Anak yang dilahirkan di Selangor', which fulfill these criterias" -
1. Malaysian citizen AND
2. Born in Selangor from 1st January 2008 onwards, AND
3. Either the mother or father of the newborn baby was not born in Selangor but has resided here for a minimum of ten (10) years.
The Modus Operandi: -

Registration - Investment of RM 100 from the state government - The child reaches the age of eigtheen (18) - Receives RM 1,500

The registration centre (Projek TAWAS): -
Tingkat (LG) Bangunan Darul Ehsan, No. 3, Jalan Indah, Seksyen 14, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan.

For any further inquiries, please contact them at: -
Telephone: 03 - 5510 3498 / 03 - 5510 3499
Facsimile : 03 - 5510 3494
Website : www.tawas.org.my

Education Talk: Top Universities in the United States

2009-07-15T16:00:00.000+08:00

Education Talk: Top Universities in the United States

Descartes Education Counselling Centre, a non-profit organisation will be organising a talk by former and current students from some of the top universities in the United States on getting into these schools.

The panelist will comprise of alumni and students from Ivy League universities such as Harvard, Dartmouth, Yale and Cornell, as well as other top liberal arts colleges such as Swarthmore, Middlebury, Bates and Colby.

They will share their personal experiences with the US education system – a system that reputably produces very employable graduates and world leaders with great competency and capabilities. They will also provide interested students with valuable information about selecting the right university, completing application forms and other practical information on gaining places in these schools.

Students will also learn the tricks of where and how to secure yourself a US university financial aid, unusual perks and opportunities offered under the US education system (foreign study programmes, self-designed curriculums, freedom to explore personal academic interests, etc.), aspects of a vastly different culture and student life. And to top it up, we have an interactive session, where you can mingle around and talk with the alumni yourself personally.

Therefore all students in the top universities and colleges in the United States for undergraduate study or those who are still figuring out what to do for their tertiary studies, come join us for the talk at:

Title : Top Universities in the US – The Gateway to a Bright Future
Date : 25th July 2009 (Saturday)
Time : 11am-4pm
Venue : LT5, 4th Floor, Sunway University College

All are welcome and attendance is free.

For more information, please contact Ms Ally Pua @ allypua@yahoo.com or 012-3286300

Girls, ready to play futsal?

2009-06-25T20:26:00.001+08:00

Should Local Council Elections be Restored in Malaysia?

2009-06-01T19:07:00.002+08:00

Announcing Inaugural Debate organised by the Office of State Assemblyman of Subang Jaya, Hannah Yeoh

"Should Local Council Elections be Restored in Malaysia?"

The Office of State Assemblyman of Subang Jaya, Hannah Yeoh, will be organising a debate on the motion ”Should Local Council Elections be Restored in Malaysia?” to encourage more public awareness and discourse on the topic.

Date: Sunday, 7 June 2009
Time: 2.30pm – 3.30pm
Venue: Sekolah Sri Sedaya, Jalan SS13/4, 47500 Subang Jaya

Are local council elections truly the bedrock and foundation of the democratic system? Or are they an unnecessary drain on the resources of a country which already has elections at the federal and at the state level?

Will restoring local council elections ensure that councillors will be more accountable to the public? Or will it simply ensure that councillors will take a populist stand in dealing with the concerns and issues of local residents?

The panel of debaters in support of the motion will feature:

1. YB Tony Pua Kiam Wee, Member of Parliament for Petaling Jaya Utar
2. YB Gobind Singh Deo, Member of Parliament for Puchong
3. YB Sivarasa Rasiah, Member of Parliament for Subang

The panel of debaters opposed to the motion will feature:

1. Iqbal Hafiedz Ahmed Bazari
2. Suresh Gnasegarah
3. Faisal Moideen

Members of the press and public are invited to attend. Admission is free.

For more information, please contact:

Rajiv Risyakaran
Special Assistant,
Office of State Assemblyman of Subang Jaya Hannah Yeoh
Email: rajiv@dapsj.com

From May 13 to 1Malaysia – The Future of Malaysian Nation Building

2009-05-10T21:14:00.001+08:00

In commemoration of the 40th anniversary of May-13 incident, my office will hold a public forum entitled “From May 13 to 1Malaysia – The Future of Malaysian Nation Building” on 13th May 2009 (Wednesday), 8.00pm in Civic Hall, MBPJ, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Bearing in mind the nation’s difficult past, the objective of this forum is to enable a group of Malaysians from different background and of different era to explore together a Malaysian future that will become our common destiny.

Invited speakers include YB Lim Kit Siang (DAP MP for Ipoh Timur), YB Nizar Jamaluddin (PAS MP for Bukit Gantang), YB Khalid Abd. Samad (PAS MP for Shah Alam), K. Ragunath (Chairman of Malaysian Bar Council), Chan Nyan Hoi (Retired Judge of Court Of Appeal), Associate Professor Dr. Azmi bin Sharom (Lecturer of UM Faculty of Law), Tricia Yeoh Su-Wern (Research Officer of Selangor Menteri Besar’s Office).

Each panelist will be given 10 minutes to lay out her/his ideal Malaysia future, and the audience will have opportunity to voice their own versions of “1Malaysia”. The forum will end with each panelist given 10 minutes to wind up her/his speech.

Light refreshment will be prepared. All are welcomed to attend this forum.

Resurfacing of Roads in Subang Jaya

2009-05-07T21:58:00.001+08:00

Dear Residents of Subang Jaya

Greetings to you
Please be informed that Selangor Govt has provided funds to MPSJ to resurface roads in the Municipality.

Kindly assist us by giving feedback on those roads that need to be resurfaced. I will be taking feedback for roads in Subang Jaya. The Councillors of the respective zones will be happy to receive feedback from residents in their zones.

Kindly send e-mail directly to me by 11th May (Monday) to : theresa@pc.jaring.my

Thank you for your kind attention on the matter

Warm regards
Theresa Ratnam Thong
Ahli Majlis MPSJ
Pengerusi JKP Zon 1, Subang Jaya

Conincidence or .. came from MCA meeting (or going to one?)

2009-04-15T22:08:00.003+08:00

Looks like mca, talks like mca, smells like mca ... but say that she is "independent"?

Help for the needy

2009-04-15T10:59:00.000+08:00

This article is from The Star Online (http://thestar.com.my)
URL:

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/3/30/lifefocus/3355711&sec=lifefocus

Meet the MB session (For NGOs)

2009-04-09T21:50:00.002+08:00

Dear all,

The Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim will be opening his office on Thursday 16th April in the morning, between 9am and 12pm, to meet with non-governmental organisations (NGOs). This is an excellent opportunity for you to discuss with the MB certain issues which you think are extremely important, which you have not until now had the chance of doing. I would encourage those of you who haven't had any interaction with the MB before to do so.

What you will need to do is send in a one-pager, detailing your organisation's background and the issue that you would like to raise during the discussion. It will be one-on-one (the NGO in concern with MB) but not for very long, only 15 mins or so which means you have to address the issue in a very systematic and easy-to-understand manner.

Please e-mail me if you want further clarifications. Please send this to me by tomorrow, or latest Monday 13th April.

Note: Please come only upon confirmation and invitation.

Thanks very much and look forward to hearing from you! If due to the overwhelming responses we cannot accommodate everyone in a slot, do not fret as there will be other such occasions to do so.

Warm Regards,
Tricia Yeoh

--
Tricia Yeoh
Pegawai Penyelidik kepada YAB Dato' Menteri Besar Selangor
(Research Officer to the Chief Minister of Selangor)
20th Floor, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Building,
40000 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan.

E-mail: triciayeoh@selangor.gov.my/ tricia.yeoh@gmail.com
URL: www.selangor.gov.my
Tel: 03-55447610
Fax: 03-55109686

Freedom Film Festival

2009-04-03T15:04:00.002+08:00

The outcome of the last general election had everyone talking about the reawakening of people's power. But how far has this political transformation resulted in the improvement of our lives as Malaysians?

The FreedomFilmFest is now accepting entries for video proposals with the theme "Real Change?"

Send in your proposal and stand to win RM5000 to make your film.

You can also send in your completed videos and be in the running for a cash prize of RM2000

Competition Details and entry form on:

http://freedomfilmfest.komas.org

Watch this year's competition trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmQRqgYNvr4

www.airuntukrakyat.com

2009-04-03T14:52:00.000+08:00

Please visit www.airuntukrakyat.com which has all the relevant information and facts on the much publicised Selangor Water Restructuring Exercise.

Inefficient ROS

2009-03-30T15:31:00.000+08:00

KENYATAAN MEDIA
28 MAC 2009
KENYATAAN PENGARAH PENDAFTAR PERTUBUHAN SELANGOR MENGECEWAKAN
SHAH ALAM: Kerajaan Negeri hari ini merasa kecewa dengan kegagalan Jabatan Pendaftar
Pertubuhan Negeri Selangor (ROS Selangor) untuk memberi respon kepada surat-surat daripada
kerajaan Negeri tentang dalam status Badan Kebajikan Isteri-isteri Wakil Rakyat Selangor atau
Balkis.
Malah permintaan Kerajaan Negeri untuk satu perbincangan bersama ROS Selangor mengenai
status BALKIS juga tidak dihiraukan. Sikap professionalisma dan kecekapan ROS Selangor
menjadi tanya kerana pertanyaan dan permintaan ini dibuat lebih enam bulan yang lalu.
Semalam, rakyat dikejutkan dengan kenyataan Pengarah ROS Selangor, Encik Mohd Yunus
Jamil ketika disoal oleh panel Jawatankuasa Pilihan Khas Mengenai Keupayaan,
Kebertanggungjawaban dan Ketelusan (SELCAT) Selangor, bahawa Balkis kononnya telah
dibubarkan dengan sah. Pegawai kanan berkenaan jelas menyatakan bahawa ROS Selangor
telah meluluskan pembubaran Balkis tanpa mengikut peraturan dan Undang-undang Pertubuhan.
Sikap ini dilihat sebagai tidak bertanggungjawab sebagai penjawat awam yang memandang
remeh tentang sesebuah pertubuhan yang ketika ini masih dalam siasatan. Sehubungan itu,
Kerajaan Negeri akan membuat aduan rasmi kepada Ketua Pengarah Perkhidmatan Awam
Malaysia, Tan Sri Ismail Adam kerana adalah jelas sikap Pengarah ROS Selangor ini jelas tidak
mengikut etika perkhidmatan awam.
Sikap ini juga mencerminkan kelemahan dan ketidakupayaan pegawai kerajaan dalam
menjalankan tugas dengan amanah, telus dan bertanggungjawab. Sikap sebegini juga akan
menjatuhkan status pegawai kerajaan.
Kerajaan Negeri juga berpendapat pegawai sebegini tidak patut bertugas di Selangor yang amat
mementingkan efisiensi (efficiency) dan sistem pentadbiran yang telus dan bertanggujawab.
NIK NAZMI NIK AHMAD
SETIAUSAHA POLITIK KEPADA MENTERI BESAR SELANGOR

SELCAT

2009-03-11T19:52:00.000+08:00

PRESS STATEMENT
MARCH 11, 2009
EXCO ASSET DECLARATIONS TO BE MADE PUBLIC FRIDAY
The Pakatan Rakyat Government in Selangor would like to thank His Royal Highness Sultan Shariffudin Idris Shah for his support and advice as stated in his opening speech at the 12th State Legislative Assembly meeting yesterday. The state welcomes the Sultan’s advice for its EXCO members to declare their assets for public scrutiny.

As such, the state would like to announce that the asset declaration of EXCO members will be available on the official Selangor Government website, at www.selangor.gov.my beginning Friday. This move would allow public to scrutinize all transactions of assets during the EXCO members’ period of appointment in office.
Assets here refer to property, shares and/or large sums of cash transfers taking place during this period of time. The official dates are between March 24, 2008 (the date of swearing in of the EXCOs) and present.

Transactions include any acquisition or disposal of assets during that time period.
The state would like to stress that the objective of asset declaration is to ensure that those holding highest

Office within the Selangor Government would not take advantage of their positions to unlawfully or unethically acquire assets - financial or otherwise. The declarations would enable EXCO members to make unbiased and impartial decisions on policy thus enhancing the credibility of the state government.

After seeking legal advice, the state decided that it is best not to include assets owned by EXCO members prior to holding office. This is because the state is unable to provide security for the EXCO and their family members; and neither is there any insurance policy that can be obtained to address this concern.

However, every EXCO member has disclosed the information privately to the Menteri Besar’s Office and this information can be released for legitimate reasons – subject to the conditions set by and approval of the Special Select Committee on Competence, Accountability and Transparency or SELCAT.
While we have the utmost confidence in our EXCO’s integrity, this move reflects the state’s uncompromising stand on transparency, accountability and good governance.

TAN SRI ABDUL KHALID IBRAHIM
DATO MENTERI BESAR SELANGOR

Press Statement by Selangor Secretariat

2009-03-04T02:06:00.001+08:00

PRESS STATEMENT
MARCH 2, 2009
PNSB SENDS REPRESENTATION TO IRB
SHAH ALAM: Permodalan Negeri Selangor Berhad (PNSB) today met with Inland Revenue Board (IRB) to
officially declare its failure to include benefits in kind in the EA forms submitted over the past years.
PNSB gave its commitment to furnish IRB the details of all benefits in kind given to its employees in the past
years including those given to its chairman and directors. PNSB has over the years given its employees –
including its Chairman, members of the Board of Directors benefits in the form of material, cash or both.
Among the benefits include cars and drivers, as well as holidays for local and international destinations.
In today’s meeting, IRB had confirmed that benefits must be included in the EA form and this include motor
vehicles, drivers, holiday benefits, gifts both in cash and kind to employees including Chairman and members
of the Board. There is no exemption to anyone irrespective of rank and position in the company.
The state government is therefore puzzled by the media statement made by PNSB’s former chairman Dato’
Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo who claimed there was no need for him to pay tax for the car and driver he
received while he was the Menteri Besar. He was reported in News Straits Times on Feb 27, 2009 as saying:
“If I pay taxes on the car, it would be like paying double to the IRB as the company would have also paid for
it.”
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
SEKRETARIAT AKHBAR, PEJABAT MENTERI BESAR SELANGOR, TINGKAT 20, BANGUNAN SULTAN SALAHUDDIN ABDUL AZIZ SHAH,
40502 SHAH ALAM, SELANGOR, MALAYSIA. TEL: 603-554470032 FAX: 603-55109686
Apart from benefits in kind, PNSB will also seek clarification from IRB on certain spending on gifts – both in
material and cash – given to its staff.
The ongoing evaluation exercise in PNSB, which was conducted to enhance the company’s performance, led
to the discovery of the failure to include benefits in kind in the EA forms which contravenes the Income Tax
Act.
PRESS SECRETARIATE
DATO’ MENTERI BESAR OFFICE

Selangor Issues

2009-02-24T12:19:00.001+08:00

1) Malaysian Insider article here saying that irregularities in the State GLCs' accounts from the past State government are being revealed (click to see the article here). Look out for updates.

2) Selangor is going through a water restructuring exercise and for those of you following the stories on the media, it's turning out to be a pseudo-fight between the State and Federal Governments. It can get technical, but the bottomline is this: The Federal Government bypassed the Selangor Government to negotiate with water concessionaires, and is going to likely save the failed privatised concession companies by paying them a high price. If so, Selangor and KL citizens are going to suffer by getting their water tariffs increased by 37% on April 1st 2009 OR other Malaysians suffer by getting taxed in other forms. See the Water Panel's latest press release pasted below.

It is an admission that privatisation has failed. Citizens have paid the price for this failure once already, and paying companies a price beyond what they deserve is a second time people will pay.

I hope people will see that this goes beyond merely the "financial section" of the news. It will affect consumers ultimately. I'll be sending round more info soon. We are organising briefing sessions throughout the next weeks on this. Please be on the lookout for and spread the news on how seriously this exercise will impact all of us.

If you are in a capacity to publicise this through the news, magazines, tv shows, editorials, blogs, write-ups, forums, etc, please do so and contact me if you need more info at 012-6122100. I can provide people to speak on the issue.

Thanks and best,
Tricia

**

Joint Media Statement by Member of Parliaments in the Selangor Water Review Panel in Kuala Lumpur on Monday, 23rd February 2009:

Federal Government Sabotaged Offer by Selangor Government to Acquire Water Assets and Concession in the State

The Selangor state government made an offer to 4 privatised water service providers – Puncak Niaga Sdn Bhd (PNSB), SYABAS, SPLASH and ABASS to acquire their water assets and concessions on the 13th February 2009.

The combined RM5.71 billion offered was made with the objective to deliver the lowest possible water tarriffs for the residents of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur. At the same time, the offer was consistent with, and guided by the terms and conditions specified in the concession agreements signed willingly by all parties involved. It was a comprehensive offer because it encompasses the audited asset value of all water-related assets as well as a very fair and reasonable return to the capital invested by the respective concessionaires.

However, before the concessionaires are able to respond to the state government's offer by the 20th February, we are shocked that the Ministry of Energy, Water and Communications, via Dato Teo Yen Hua, CEO of National Water Services Commission (SPAN) announced on the 18th February that the Federal Government will proceed to negotiate directly with the water concessionaires.

Instead of supporting the state's offer, SPAN intentionally threw a spanner in the works to sabotage the Selangor state's attempt at delivering the lowest possible water tarriffs to her people.

For with an alternative competing offer which will not only encompass higher cash valuation but also more lucrative terms and conditions from the Federal Government, SPAN has single-handedly destroyed any likelihood of a positive response from the concessionaires to the state government.

Therefore with SPAN's interference, it was not surprising that the concessionaires rejected the state government's offer on 20th February, last Friday. We will like to call upon the Minister to explain the actions of his Ministry for sabotaging the efforts of the Selangor State Government.

We will like to reiterate our position that if the offer from the Federal Government to acquire these assets and concessions at the same or lower price than what the Selangor state government has offered, we will not only agree to letting the Federal Government lead the negotiations, but also provide the Ministry with our full support and co-operation.

If however, the Ministry offers the concessionaires a much higher cash value for its assets as well as lucrative license terms for them to continue as the water operators in the state, the Minister must explain why he is forsaking the rights and interest of 7.3 million population of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur.

We will also like to emphasize to the Minister that under the law, particularly the Water Services Industry Act 2006, as well as the terms of the current concession contracts, the Selangor state is a counter-party to all previous and future agreements. Hence the attempt by the Federal Government to unilaterally negotiate with the concessionaires is illegal and will be subjected to future dispute and complications.

Therefore, we call upon the Federal Government to respect the rights of the State and let the Selangor Government proceed with the negotiations with the concessionaires in the interest of the people of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur.

Tony Pua, MP Petaling Jaya Utara
Charles Santiago, MP Klang
William Leong, MP Selayang
Dr Dzulkifli Ahmad, MP Kuala Selangor

Job Opening

2009-02-24T01:19:00.002+08:00

Pengarah, Belia & Sukan Department, Selangor State Government (Reports to MB)

Qualification -
Degree with working experience, preferably with in event organization.

Scope of work -

Work proposals and ensure projects are carried out effectively

Perks
An assistant and a clerk clear will report to you

Please email you resume to yinghalee@gmail.com and <amirudin.shari@gmail.com> and post to a copy of the resume to

Majlis Sukan Negeri Selangor

Carlton Holiday Hotel & Suites,

Level 3, No. 1, Persiaran Akuatik,

Jalan Aerobik 13/43, Seksyen 13,

40100 Shah Alam.

Attn to Tuan Haji Mohd Zubir Bin Haji Idrus

Please state clearly: Applikasi untuk jawatan Pengarah, Jabatan Belia dan Sukan

The basic salary is RM2000+

27th February 2009
Candidate will be selected next week.

New Chief Inspector for USJ 8 Balai Polis

2009-02-23T11:38:00.004+08:00

Balai Polis USJ8

Chief Inspector Tuan Loi Yew Lik
H/Phone : 012 4118843
Telephone : 03 56374471
Email Contact : likiloi@yahoo.com

Forum : "Perak Coup D'etat : What Say You?"

2009-02-17T01:47:00.002+08:00

Forum : "Perak Coup D'etat : What Say You?"

Date : 17th Feb 2009 (Tue)

Time : 8:00pm

Venue : Dewan Hamzah, Majlis Perbandaran Klang, Klang (Map)

Speakers : Mohd. Nizar Jamaluddin, Ngeh Koo Ham, A. Sivanesan, Lim Kit Siang, Khalid Samad, Dr. Dzulkifli Ahmad, Haris Ibrahim, Charles Santiago, Ronnie Liu, Dr. Xavier Jayakumar

Organizer : Charles Santiago

Please contact Yap (016-2026300) / Sarah (016-6267797) if you have any further enquiries.

NEWGATE 21 up for Sale

2009-02-15T13:34:00.001+08:00

Public Consultation & Dialogue

2009-02-15T13:26:00.001+08:00

A public consultation and dialogue on Malaysia's highway toll concession agreements will be held since they were "declassified" for public viewing a few months ago. For members of the public who wish to find out more details of our findings, as well as for the professionals with additional information, please join us for an evening of sharing and brainstorming.

The details are as follows:

"Can We Have Our Highways Back?"
Venue: Crystal Crown Hotel, Petaling Jaya
Date: 18 February (Wed)
Time: 7.30pm

The panel speakers include:

Sdr Lim Kit Siang, DAP Parliamentary Leader
Sdr Tony Pua, MP Petaling Jaya Utara
Sdr Teh Chi Chang, Economic Advisor to DAP Secretary-General
Other speakers to be confirmed

Oxymoron (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxymoron)

2009-02-05T10:52:00.002+08:00

" An oxymoron (plural oxymorons or, more rarely, oxymora) is a figure of speech that combines two normally contradictory terms. Oxymoron is a loanword from Greek oxy ("sharp" or "pointed") and moros ("dull"). Thus the word oxymoron is itself an oxymoron.

Oxymorons are a proper subset of the expressions called contradictions in terms. What distinguishes oxymorons from other paradoxes and contradictions is that they are used intentionally, for rhetorical effect, and the contradiction is only apparent, as the combination of terms provides a novel expression of some concept, such as "cruel to be kind" or "team of mavericks".

The most common form of oxymoron involves an adjective-noun combination. For example, the following line from Tennyson's Idylls of the King contains two oxymorons:

"And faith unfaithful kept him falsely true"

Oxymorons can also be wooden irons in that they are in violation of the Principle of contradiction which asserts that nothing can be thought if it contains contradictory characteristics, predicates, attributes, or qualities. "

Examples of Oxymoron "independents that support BN"

What the??

Happy CNY!

2009-02-04T13:22:00.000+08:00

Renovations at the Pusat Perkhidmatan ADUN SJ

2009-01-12T23:44:00.003+08:00

We are looking for glass door contractors interested in renovation works.

a) To dismantle and discard away glass and gypsum board for the extension of the existing
rooms. Size: approx 90” x 96” – 1 nos & 84” x 182” – 1 nos.

b) To supply and install aluminium sliding door.
i) Size: 90” x 96”(h) – 1 unit
ii) Size: 182” x 84”(h) – 1 unit

If you are interested please e-mail your quotation to edwardling@dapsj.com . If a site visit is necessary, please come to our office during our opening ours. Map, address and opening hours can be found here.

If you would like to sponsor this renovation work, kindly contact me as well.

Condolences

2009-01-01T14:54:00.002+08:00

Chief Ins. Foo of the USJ8 police station passed away on Tuesday, 30th December 2008 at 10.25p.m.

My sincere condelences to his family.
Mother: Lee Siew Nai
Wife: Alice Ong Suit Wan
Son: Foo Sheng An
Brother: Foo Teik Hooi
Nephew: Foo Sheng Yang
Sister-in-law: Tan Mue Cheng
Niece: Foo Yeh Li

Contact 1800 88 1818 for more info.

Balai Polis Subang Jaya 03 5633 2222
C/I Tuan Sulaiman Bin Baputty 019 3707100

Balai Polis USJ 03 5635 6904
S/I Tuan Amir 012 2713294

Balai Polis Taipan 03 5633 7222
Sajan Thanabalan 012 2135377

Balai Polis Bandar Sunway 03 5638 2122
C/I Tuan Krisnan 012 5818927

National DAPSY (DAP Youth) Leadership 2008

2008-12-20T13:07:00.000+08:00

Position	Name
Chairman	Loke Siew Fook, Anthony
Deputy Chairman	Lee Ying Ha, Jenice
Vice Chairman	Yong Wui Wui, Violet
Vice Chairman	Wong Kah Woh
National Secretary	Loh Chee Heng
Assistant National Secretary	Tey Kok Kiew
National Treasurer	Leong Ooi Yee
Assistant National Treasurer	Lau Keng Ee
National Organizing Secretary	Chang Teck Chee, Eddie
Assistant National Organizing Secretary	Leong Ooi Kuan, Carmen
National Publicity Secretary	Ng Wei Aik
Assistant National Publicity Secretary	Ong Boon Piow
International Affairs Bureau Director	Chang She Yun, Medaline
Political Education Bureau Director	Ooi Leng Hang
Varsity Affairs Bureau Director	Tan Hong Pin
Committee Members	Chan Su Sann
	Cheong Chee King
	Choong Siew Onn
	Gobind Singh Deo
	Khoo Poay Tiong
	Kuan Perk Siong
	Ling Sieak Meeng, Edward
	Ng Suee Lim
	Teo Eng Ching
	Teo Kok Seong
	Tiew Way Keng
	V.Sivakumar
	Yeoh Soon Hin

Join the Voluntary Police Force

2008-12-02T00:09:00.002+08:00

Please be informed that the Subang Jaya Division of the Sukarelawan Polis Diraja Malaysia Selangor kontingen is accepting application of new recruits for 2009 intake. Residents of USJ or Subang Jaya are encouraged to join. Application forms can be obtained from the PVR Office at Balai Police Taipan (which is the HQ for Subang Jaya) or you can contact directly

(Cheng Kok Leong) Inspector/SP Ketua Sukarelawan Polis Daerah IPPD Subang Jaya
Mobile: 019-2296828.
Email: leonchengkl@gmail.com
Fax: 03-80766487
or visit the official Sukarelawan Polis website www.spdrmselangor.org.my

Qualification requirements :-
1. above 18 years and below 35 years old
2. Malaysian citizen
3. Must have a day job with minimum salary of RM1,200.00 and with the permission of employer.
4. Minimum SPM

Money Basics No 3

2008-12-01T01:28:00.000+08:00

Openings at DAP HQ

2008-11-05T18:31:00.002+08:00

DAP HQ is looking for extra staff to help cope with the increasing heavy workload. Please assist by spreading the words that DAP HQ is looking for:

1) 1 receptionist
2) 3 general clerks

Candidates should have basic PC knowledge, can speak and understand Bahasa, English and Mandarin (advantages). Experience is not essential.

They can contact Ms Lim at 03-79578022 for interview.

Children's Day Celebrations

2008-11-02T23:21:00.000+08:00

Activities

1. Coloring competition by Nural (Pending confirmation)
2. Balloon Sculpture by the clown
3. Magic Show by the clown
4. Bouncing castles
5. Gardenia Wagon
6. Yeos – Sponsored 45 carton of just tea drinks
7. Yakult – sampling & activities (talk on digestive system) – Pending confirmation
8. Foot Reflexology – (to be confirmed)
9. Foot scan by Adidas confirmed
10. Maestro Swiss – VICO chocolate drink & Activities.
11. Health Screening – by HOPE worldwide (BMI Test, BP, Weight & Height, Glucose Test)
12. Sanofi & Pasteur – Free Flu Vaccine & activity

More events

2008-10-27T21:26:00.000+08:00

COMING SOON

Money Basics 2

Register for Money Basics 2 online (preferred) HERE.
Please come if you have registered. By registering and not attending, you have denied somebody his opportunity to improve his life financially.

How did forum go?

2008-10-24T20:04:00.004+08:00

http://www.malaysiakini.com/news/91860

DAP gesa boikot semua penerbitan Utusan

Jimadie Shah Othman | Oct 24, 08 12:10pm

Tidak cukup dengan memboikot akhbar Utusan Malaysia, DAP kini menggesa supaya ia diperluaskan meliputi kesemua tiga akhbar dan 11 majalah terbitan Kumpulan Utusan.

Saranan itu dibuat pemimpin utama parti itu Lim Kit Siang dalam sebuah forum di Dewan Perhimpunan China Selangor dan Kuala Lumpur di ibunegara malam tadi.

DAP dan Pakatan Rakyat sebelum ini memboikot akhbar itu sebagai tindak balas selepas mendakwa akhbar berkenaan menyiarkan laporan yang berat sebelah.

Terbaru, parti itu mendakwa akhbar berkenaan menyiarkan laporan berat sebelah berhubung isu laungan azan yang membabitkan ahli Parlimen Teresa Kok.

Bercakap dalam forum bertajuk "Membunuh YB lawan Kebebasan Media", Lim mempertikaikan kualiti laporan akhbar itu yang didakwanya berat sebelah dan tidak profesional.

Lim menyatakan langkah terbaru itu ketika mengulas cadangan yang sama oleh seorang lagi peserta forum itu, pensyarah Universiti Malaya (UM) dan penulis blog terkenal Dr Azmi Sharom.

Turut menyokong saranan tersebut ialah seorang lagi ahli panel, penulis blog Haris Ibrahim.

Haris menyarankan supaya pengiklan menarik balik iklan mereka di akhbar itu selain menuntut orang ramai terus memboikot akhbar berbahasa Melayu popular itu.

"Kalau hendak serang balas, seranglah di tempat yang paling berkesan," katanya menjawab soalan hadirin mengenai tindakan seterusnya untuk menghadapi Utusan Malaysia.

Simbolik kepada pemboikotan itu, kelima-lima mereka mengangkat kain rentang bertulis "boikot Utusan" di akhir program.

Ahli panel turut menerima seorang satu kain rentang yang disampaikan oleh ahli Parlimen Petaling Jaya Utara, Tony Pua.

Ahli panel lain ialah Teresa dan ketua pengarang editor Roket, Wan Hamidi Hamid.

http://www.malaysiakini.com/news/91870

民行论坛促杯葛整个前锋报集团
郭素沁准备展开第二波法律行动

李伟伦 | 10月24日下午3点24分

因为一篇被指禁止雪兰莪州回教堂播放祈祷呼唤声(Azan)的文章，而与《马来西亚前锋报》扛上的民主行动党士布爹区国会议员郭素沁，准备展开第二波的法律行动，继续控告前锋报。

这篇被郭素沁指责为诬赖及捏造的专栏文章，更导致她被警方援引内安法令逮捕长达一周。

已在日前入禀高庭起诉《前锋报》及该专栏作者毁谤的郭素沁说，虽然她目前针对该报只入禀了一项控状，但这只是开始，更多的入禀行动将接踵而来。

"迄今我只入禀了一项诉讼控告《前锋报》，但更多的（入禀）将陆续有来，包括针对查米尔瓦利亚（Chamil Wariya）等人。"

行动党趁势办论坛声讨前锋报

查米尔瓦利亚是一名资深报人，他日前为《前锋报》撰写一篇名为《 YB J的新政治》（Politik baru YB J）的短篇小说，并引起争议，被指影射郭素沁，鼓吹恐怖主义和暗杀行动。

民主行动党国会领袖林吉祥日前在国会下议院揭露此事后，很快就掀起巨大的回响。该党趁势在昨晚举办一场名为“暗杀一名国会议员VS新闻自由”的论坛，并获得全场爆满的200名观众出席支持。

该项论坛是在隆雪华堂楼上讲堂举行，共邀请6名嘉宾主讲。除了郭素沁和林吉祥外，还包括回教党莎亚南区国会议员卡立沙末、人权律师哈利斯依布拉欣、马来亚大学法律系讲师阿兹米与英文版《火箭报》总编辑旺哈米迪。主持人则是梳邦再也区州议员杨巧双的政治秘书林谢明。

暂撇律师忠告坚持在论坛主讲

作为整起风波的当事人，郭素沁一开始演讲时即表明，由于她目前正与《前锋报》打着官司，因此律师劝告她勿出席这项论坛。

不过她表示，她最后还是坚持出席，并在演讲中多次对支持者表示感谢。

这名在308大选获得最多多数票的行动党女将说，她不清楚本身为何在大选后，便屡遭《前锋报》恶意攻击，但相信该报主要是冲着她在雪州民联政府的职位而来。

因雪高级议员身份遭圈中攻击

郭素沁本来是士布爹区国会议员，她在308大选出了捍卫原职成功，也攻下了雪州金銮区州议席，并在后来出任雪州高级行政议员一职。

"国阵从来没有预料到会丧失雪州政权。在民联执政的5个州属中，国阵最想夺回的就是雪州政府，但若要成事的话，首先就须赢得马来选票支持。"

郭素沁分析说，既然国阵政府深知难在赢得华、印裔的支持，便转向巫裔选民下手，包括散播各种恶劣谣言，如指责民联政府被行动党所操纵，及意图制造马来人遭排挤的假象等。

至于为何由巫统控制的《前锋报》会选上她为攻击对象，一向快人快语的郭素沁表示，这是因为她是雪州的高级行政议员。

网民透过直播询问赔偿金用途

郭素沁已在日前入禀高庭起诉《前锋报》以及其高级编辑兼专栏作者再尼哈山（Mohd Zaini Hassan）刊登一则影射她禁止雪州回教堂播放祈祷呼唤声(Azan)的诽谤文章，并索偿3千万令吉。

询及若成功胜诉，她将如何使用该笔赔偿金时，郭素沁指出，目前还未想到这个问题，或许将把钱捐给党，或用作其他政治用途，但却肯定不是由她本人所保留。

她笑着说，由于替她打官司的代表律师全是义务性质，因此她也不排除在胜诉后，把赔偿金用来缴付律师费。

郭素沁当时是透过网络直播，回答一名在线观众的提问。这是当晚论坛的其中一项创举，通过行动党的网络电视，让网民观赏直播，并在线上直接发问。

前锋报集团成为众所矢之箭靶

昨晚的论坛也几乎成了"讨伐"《前锋报》的大会。大会既安排工作人员在会场售卖10令吉一件，打着"杯葛《前锋报》"标语设计的T恤，更在论坛结束前，把一个"杯葛《前锋报》"的大横幅打开，让主讲嘉宾合照留念。

此外，一众主讲人也竞相鞭挞《前锋报》，人权律师兼部落客哈利斯最先吁请所有出席者，停止在《前锋报》上刊登广告。随后马大讲师兼专栏作者阿兹米更是直接表示："为何不要直接杯葛这该死的整个集团？"

在获得郭素沁的挺声支持后，论坛主持人林谢明甚至利用手提电脑查出马来前锋报集团属下的16本出版刊物，并向现场观众念出刊物名称，吁请现场观众一起响应杯葛前锋报集团。

这 16本刊物包括：《马来西亚前锋报》（Utusan Malaysia）、《马来西亚前锋报星期刊》（Mingguan Malaysia）、《Kosmo!》、《马来人前锋报》（Utusan Melayu）、《Wanita》、《Saji》、《Pemikir》、《Mastika》、《Mangga》、《Hai》、《Harmoni》、《Al Islam》、《Kawan》、《I sihat》、《Urtv》和《Remix》。

If you don't read chinese, click this link to translate the chinese article. Not grammatically correct (As it is a direct translation, but you will be able to understand it)

http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.malaysiakini.com%2Fnews%2F91870&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&sl=zh-CN&tl=en

"Assassinating a YB" vs Press Freedom

2008-10-23T14:20:00.002+08:00

I've been ask to be the moderator for this : -

Public Forum: "Assassinating a YB" vs Press Freedom

Date: 23.10.08 (Thursday)
Time: 8.00pm
Venue: KL & Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall, Jalan Maharajalela, KL

Speakers:

1. Lim Kit Siang, DAP Parliamentary Leader, Member of Parliament for Ipoh Timor, blogger since 2005 [http://blog.limkitsiang.com]
2. Khalid Samad, Member of Parliament for Shah Alam, PAS Selangor Deputy Commissioner, blogger [http://khalidsamad-shahalam.blogspot.com/]
3. Harris Ibrahim, Lawyer, blogger [http://harismibrahim.wordpress.com/]
4. Dr Azmi Sharom, Academician, The Star columnist
5. Wan Hamidi Hamid, Senior Journalist, Editor-in-Chief of Rocket
6. Teresa Kok, Selangor Senior Exco, Member of Parliament for Seputih, blogger [http://teresakok.com]

See you there!

Crazy Little Thing called love

2008-10-20T02:26:00.003+08:00

Yeah, I've been quiet on my blog for a while now.

Too much news, too many happenings, so I decided I did not want to add to the overwhelming happenings.

So, to distract a little bit, go watch a play. I loved it. More details can be found here.

Article about me

2008-10-20T02:21:00.001+08:00

Source : http://themicahmandate.org/experience/sivin13.shtml or http://sivinkit.net/archives/4691

Conversation with Edward Ling

By Sivin Kit

During the build up to the March 8th General Elections and the aftermath, it became more obvious to the Church at large that there were more Christians who were involved as politicians as well as working behind the scenes. One significant development was the increased participation of younger people in the political process, whether as basic as a polling and counting agent or availing themselves for election to office.

I met Edward Ling at numerous Christian university and youth leadership related events in the past. So when I discovered he was the campaign manager and later political secretary for Hannah Yeoh, I was curious as to what led him to where he is today and what makes him tick as he has taken a conscious plunge into party politics through the Democratic Action Party (DAP).

In this article I have included his speech made at recent 15th DAP National Congress (2008) which gives us a glimpse of how he engages the issues within his own party. What struck me in his speech was his call for the DAP to reflect their stated ideology as a truly “Malaysian” party by attracting more Malays into their ranks. This looks like quite a daunting task in my view for a political party which seems to depend more on a base of Chinese voters and championing non-Malay Muslim concerns. But, voices like Edward need to be heard within the spheres of influence that he is part of. Change happens at multiple levels and his call is part of the bigger picture.

The second part that struck me was a small segment at the end of his speech where he reflected a self-critical stance of the younger leaders within the Pakatan Rakyat which is healthy. The emphasis on freedom of speech and thought while also taking into consideration the issues emphasized by the respective component parties, ie. PKR and PAS, shows us an ongoing work in progress beyond the sound bites we get in mainstream media.

I have highlighted the two points above hopefully to deepen our appreciation of the currents within and beyond the structures which Edward has chosen to participate in. I believe it also helps nuance our kneejerk reactions towards headlines which often do not tell the whole story.

What is important and encouraging to me in my conversation with Edward, is that there are these younger leaders from the Church such Edward who are willing to take the plunge, or in one of my favourite slogans, “Jump first, and fear later”! Now, the ball is passed back to us in the churches to provide the needed pastoral support, personal as well as corporate encouragement, critical engagement and resources so that those like him are not left alone to slog through the messy world of politics on their own until the next general elections!

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself, and what are you currently involved in terms of politics.

My name is Edward Ling, I am currently the Political Secretary to Hannah Yeoh. I guess I am an unsuspecting candidate for a political secretary. I help Hannah on a voluntary basis (But I do get reimbursed a small allowance for my travel & such). I act as the right hand person to Hannah, helping her in every way possible. I think you can also term my role as personal assistant. Sometimes it is difficult to define the responsibilities at this moment because I help her in various areas - from setting up the office, representing her in certain appointments, helping her answer calls, setting up appointments, helping her draft policies, sometimes to driving and accompanying her to meetings, just to name a few. Recently we got a few other volunteers on board to help Hannah as well.

2. How did you land up doing what you are doing now?

I have always been interested in politics. As a young boy I was more interested in reading the newspapers then studying my books. My mum had to ban me from reading the papers!

Even before (and after) I graduated and came back from Australia in 2003, I became a “complainer” - I would complain about almost everything to do with this country. From the “useless” Moral Studies in school to administration of the country. I always thought there was a better way and I had a better idea. Some could term this as “an arm-chair critic”. One day I decided that I had to do something about it - instead of just complaining - so I decided to join DAP. I wanted to choose a platform to voice my opinions and suggestions. I thought - what better way to implement change then to be in a position of influence and power - i wanted to to change the country through politics.

3. There have been complaints that the younger generation are more apathetic to current issues especially civil society concerns and politics in the country; were you once upon a time in that category? If yes, what changed you? If it was an ongoing interest, how was it nurtured?

It was always an ongoing interest. I used to draw pictures in my Moral subject paper in protest (while still schooling) *laughs*. I did that because I thought Moral studies was a waste of precious schooling time!

4. Who are some people dead or alive :-) who have inspired you to do what you are doing now?

I admire William Wilberforce (a prominent British politician, philanthropist and slavery abolitionist in the late 18th to early 19th century). Born wealthy, he could have lived a comfortable life, but he gave his life fighting for change, against the status quo of slavery. Watch the movie “Amazing Grace”. ;-)

5. What kind of support are you getting from your local church leadership or the church in general in your active involvement thus far?

A few of the church members have stepped forward to join as volunteers. However I believe the churches in Malaysia still have a lot of room to get involved in community work. I wish churches would churn out political ministry (alongside with kids ministry, worship ministry, etc..). Few churches understand that we have lost the influence in government and politics. We are too comfortable being shoved into shoplots and factory lots. Why should this be? Our 1st Rukun Negara reads “Kepercayaan kepada Tuhan”. Why are we afraid or avoiding what we are allowed to do?

6. You are now involved through DAP and Pakatan Rakyat; what made you walk this particular path? Do you have friends who are with the Barisan Nasional component parties, how do you relate?

At this moment in time Barisan has a party whip - which effectively means anyone who wants change within Barisan will face a tough time trying to implement change. Besides, I believe most readers here already know the sins and weaknesses of Barisan National.

For me, DAP has been the most consistent in its stand in terms of its vision in which the party wants to propel the country forward.

I don’t have many friends in Barisan Nasional, although I’d love to make friends with them. After all, we should “love our enemies”. I usually can’t relate to them and we usually get into a heated debate as soon as we start discussion politics. *laughs*. I do have a close relative who is a member of MCA.

7. How does your Christian faith and worldview inform your politics? Are there specific Biblical references or teaching your draw from in your work?

Well, the Bible speaks a lot about governance. The Bible speaks very much about God’s instruction to man on how to govern. Take numbers/leviticus/exodus for example.

John Chung was instrumental in helping me realize how easy it was to be involved.

You can read more about Christian involvement here:
http://theagora.blogspot.com/2005/05/politics-why-bother.html

8. What are some lessons you have learnt thus far after being actively involved in the last elections and now supporting the ADUNS who are elected? Please share some highlights, challenges and surprises.

Some lessons learned - language skills are very important we cannot rely on our own strength but His. With God, all things are possible! I have learned that I am not as patient as I though I was.

Highlights

When people hear our story and attitudes are changed. When I see another young person rise up to do something for a good cause.

Challenges

Being an agent of change in a country which is so resistant to change. Attitudes, I cannot change

Surprises

I was surprised when some of my closest friends popped by my house on the 12 of March! (4 days after the historical March 8th).

9. What would be areas of equipping and support from the church which you think would help you be a better agent of change?

I believe starting a “political ministry” or rebranding it as “community work project” would appeal to the churches as what we do in this ministry is to engage society in totality. In the last few months I have ministered to society more then in my 25 years as a Christian. If you are interested to know more on how you can help, I encourage you to come and see me. :)

http://edwardling.blogspot.com/

Speech made at the 15th DAP National Congress (2008)

Good day,

Leaders of DAP, fellow delegates.

My name is Edward Ling, delegate from Damansara branch, now pro-tem Chairman of DAP Bandar Subang Jaya.

Let me start with a little story. There were a bunch of new recruits at boot camp. Their trainer said to them “For the next two weeks, you are going to do all of your training without changing any of your clothes”.

So for the next two weeks, the new recruits did all their exercises & training without changing their clothes. Finally after two weeks, the trainer announced “I have got good news for all of you. Today, I am going to allow you to change your underwear”

”Phew, finally!” sighed the relieved recruits.

Then the trainer continued “Tim, you change with Ken, Ken, you change with Reuben, Reuben, you change with Jack …....etc...etc...”.

The moral of the story here is that when we change, we must change for a good reason. We should not change merely for the sake of changing.

Much has been said about change. Malaysians has voted for change – our challenge to all Malaysians is to change their negative attitudes. However, DAP must also change as we propel Malaysia forward.

We speak about Malaysian Malaysia, but we need more concrete steps to achieve this.

Firstly to attract more Malays into DAP, we need to learn from the private sector – there is no need to reinvent the wheel – we can learn from some multinational companies and what they are doing. One idea is to practice what is called “diversity and inclusiveness”.

What this means is that we have to value the background, perspectives and diversity of all Malaysians, and strive to incorporate the needs and viewpoints of diverse communities in the design and implementation of policies.

A simple example would be to have more of our DAP meetings in Bahasa Malaysia. If this is not possible, have it in English, the neutral language. We should try to avoid using certain exclusive languages that only certain communities understand.

Let us not repeat the mistake of not being prepared to govern. Some of our leaders openly admitted that we were surprised to become government in the states that PR won on March 8th. Is DAP in Pakatan Rakyat prepared to govern Malaysia tomorrow? What is our blueprint for the country? What is our negotiation strategy with the rest of the coalition parties in Pakatan Rakyat? Are we actually able to propose new systems that will work immediately? I know for a fact that we have leaders who will be able to draw up a budget immediately (since we have come up with the alternative budget). However, what about other areas? We really need to attract the right experts and the professional into the party. When we become the federal government, we must not simply give positions such as ministerial positions to party leaders merely for the fact that they are party leaders. Don’t forget, we speak of meritocracy which means we have to fit the right candidates for the right jobs. Those who are not qualified for the job should not been given the task.

On a side note, it is important to reassure our voters in the last elections that the party is not sidestepping its promises to hold local council elections by having a concrete proposal on how we are going to implement this once we are in power.

I believe there are two key areas in which we must focus our energy and brain power - the Malaysian economy and education. In terms of these two key areas education, let us start to draw up a blueprint in which will truly propel Malaysia forward.

I also observe that DAP needs to rapidly grow its leadership base. Today, DAP leaders are wearing too many hats. We should strive to avoid giving too many positions to a single individual, but instead give the opportunity to raise and groom other young talented leaders. We need to do this in order for our leaders to be effective in their jobs. For example, today we have leaders who are elected representatives in both parliament and state assemblies, who hold state positions, are in the CEC and also hold a position in the CEC, etc, etc …

Let me now turn my suggestions to our friends in Pakatan Rakyat. Firstly I think it is good that we openly give suggestions as the saying goes “iron sharpens iron”.

To the groups in PKR and PAS who protested at the Bar council Forum, I totally disagree with reasoning of the protest. However, we must allow for freedom of speech as we so often talk about.

To PAS members who say that you are sidelined in Pakatan Rakyat, pleased be informed that we are equals. The statistics show that in terms of ratio, the number of councilors appointed to PAS far exceeds that of DAP.

Thank you.

Coming Events

2008-10-08T22:54:00.002+08:00

Lady Survival Skills

Be Street Smart To Survive
(Open to Ladies only)

An crime prevention awareness program organised by the ADUN's office of Subang Jaya

Topics covered include
- Preventing Snatch Theft
- Preventing break-ins
- Crime prevention
- and much more

Speaker
Vol. Capt. K. Balasupramaniam
The Malaysian Safety Activist

Date/Time: 18 October 2008/2.30-7.00p.m.
Venue: Lecture Theather 7, Sunway University College
Admission: By registration only HERE.

Limited spaces available! Priority will be given to N31 Subang Jaya residents (SS12-19, USJ1-15, PJS 7,9,11).

Rumah terbuka Hari Raya Aidilfitri

Tarikh: 25th Oktober 2008
Masa: 12pm – 2pm
Lokasi: Dewan Serbaguna SS15 (MPSJ)

Money Basics Series

As participants are limited to 80 only, registration is on a first-come-first-served basis. Pre-registration is required for all participants. Walk-in participants will not be allowed. Register HERE.

Dialogue Session with Orang Kurang Upaya (OKU)

Date/Time: Saturday, 29 November 2008 @ 11am

Venue: Dewan Kenanga, MPSJ

Entrance fee: Free of charge (but registration online HERE is compulsory)

The objective of the dialogue session is to provide an avenue for 'Orang Kurang Upaya' (OKU) or carers of OKU living in Subang Jaya to voice the concerns/challenges faced by them. YB Hannah Yeoh, ''Jabatan Kebajikan Masyarakat' (JKM) and MPSJ councillors are expected to be present at the dialogue session.

Candlelight vigit for ISA detainees

2008-09-15T14:43:00.000+08:00

Saudara-saudari sekalian,

DAP Cawangan Bandar Subang Jaya akan mengadakan Majlis Memasang Lilin (Candle Light Vigil) demi kempen Sokong, Simpati dan Solidariti terhadap Sdri Teresa Kok & penahan-penahan ISA.

Dengan itu, majlis ini akan diadakan di DAP Bandar Subang Jaya, No24a, Jalan SS14/1, 47500 Subang Jaya pada 16/9/200 (Selasa) jam 7.30p.m-8.30p.m. Untuk maklumat selanjutnya - termasuk peta sila layari www.dapsj.com)

Diminta saudara-saudari dapat datang untuk menyokong kempen ini.

Sekian, terima kasih.

Edward Ling
Pengerusi Pro-tem
DAP Bandar Subang Jaya

=======

Friends,

Dap Bandar Subang Jaya will be having a candle light vigil in support, sympathy and soliditary for YB Teresa Kok & the other ISA detainees.

This event will take place at

DAP Bandar Subang Jaya,
No24A, Jalan SS14/1,
47500 Subang Jaya
16/9/200 (Tuesday), 7.30p.m-8.30p.m.

For more information, (including map), please visit www.dapsj.com

Please come and support our cause.

Thank you,

Edward Ling
Chairman, pro-tem
DAP Bandar Subang Jaya

My speech made at the 15th DAP National Congress (2008)

2008-08-25T00:06:00.002+08:00

Good day,

Leaders of DAP, fellow delegates.

My name is Edward Ling, delegate from Damansara branch, now pro-tem Chairman of DAP Bandar Subang Jaya.

Let me start with a little story. There were a bunch of new recruits at boot camp. Their trainer said to them “For the next two weeks, you are going to do all of your training without changing any of your clothes”.

So for the next two weeks, the new recruits did all their exercises & training without changing their clothes. Finally after two weeks, the trainer announced “I have got good news for all of you. Today, I am going to allow you to change your underwear”

“Phew, finally!” sighed the relieved recruits.

Then the trainer continued “Tim, you change with Ken, Ken, you change with Reuben, Reuben, you change with Jack…....etc...etc...”.

The moral of the story here is that when we change, we must change for a good reason. We should not change merely for the sake of changing.

Much has been said about change. Malaysians has voted for change – our challenge to all Malaysians is to change their negative attitudes. However, DAP must also change as we propel Malaysia forward.

We speak about Malaysian Malaysia, but we need more concrete steps to achieve this.

Firstly to attract more Malays into DAP, we need to learn from the private sector – there is no need to reinvent the wheel – we can learn from some multinational companies and what they are doing. One idea is to practice what is called “diversity and inclusiveness”.

What this means is that we have to value the background, perspectives and diversity of all Malaysians, and strive to incorporate the needs and viewpoints of diverse communities in the design and implementation of policies.

A simple example would be to have more of our DAP meetings in Bahasa Malaysia. If this is not possible, have it in English, the neutral language. We should try to avoid using certain exclusive languages that only certain communities understand.

Let us not repeat the mistake of not being prepared to govern. Some of our leaders openly admitted that we were surprised to become government in the states that PR won on March 8th. Is DAP in Pakatan Rakyat prepared to govern Malaysia tomorrow? What is our blueprint for the country? What is our negotiation strategy with the rest of the coalition parties in Pakatan Rakyat? Are we actually able to propose new systems that will work immediately? I know for a fact that we have leaders who will be able to draw up a budget immediately (since we have come up with the alternative budget). However, what about other areas? We really need to attract the right experts and the professional into the party. When we become the federal government, we must not simply give positions such as ministerial positions to party leaders merely for the fact that they are party leaders. Don’t forget, we speak of meritocracy which means we have to fit the right candidates for the right jobs. Those who are not qualified for the job should not been given the task.

On a side note, it is important to reassure our voters in the last elections that the party is not sidestepping its promises to hold local council elections by having a concrete proposal on how we are going to implement this once we are in power.

I believe there are two key areas in which we must focus our energy and brain power - the Malaysian economy and education. In terms of these two key areas education, let us start to draw up a blueprint in which will truly propel Malaysia forward.

I also observe that DAP needs to rapidly grow its leadership base. Today, DAP leaders are wearing too many hats. We should strive to avoid giving too many positions to a single individual, but instead give the opportunity to raise and groom other young talented leaders. We need to do this in order for our leaders to be effective in their jobs. For example, today we have leaders who are elected representatives in both parliament and state assemblies, who hold state positions, are in the CEC and also hold a position in the CEC, etc, etc…

Let me now turn my suggestions to our friends in Pakatan Rakyat. Firstly I think it is good that we openly give suggestions as the saying goes “iron sharpens iron”.

To the groups in PKR and PAS who protested at the Bar council Forum, I totally disagree with reasoning of the protest. However, we must allow for freedom of speech as we so often talk about.

To PAS members who say that you are sidelined in Pakatan Rakyat, pleased be informed that we are equals. The statistics show that in terms of ratio, the number of councilors appointed to PAS far exceeds that of DAP.

Thank you.

New Opening Hours

2008-08-19T17:09:00.001+08:00

DAP N31 Subang Jaya Service Center
ADUN Hannah Yeoh Tseow Suan

NEW OPENING HOURS
(AS OF WEDNESDAY, 20 AUGUST 2008)

Monday – Friday (1 p.m. – 7 p.m.)
Thursdays (1 p.m. – 7 p.m, 8p.m. – 10p.m.)
Closed on weekends & public holidays