What can you say about the statement of apology made by Singapore’s Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew? This gesture by a great statesman reflect the calibre of the man he is. Many a lesser man would not apologise because the statement was the truth. But this wise man spoke the truth and yet chose to apologise because it was in the larger interest of his country.
Perhaps this should be a lesson to Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin and his boss, Hishammuddin Hussien. Khairy spoke on a subject which offended the Chinese and resolutely refused to apologise. Hishammuddin castigated MCA vice-president for making what he thought was a baseless statement and demanded an apology which was duly given by Ong Tee Keat's boss, Mustapa Mohamed.
The cabinet under the misguided Najib Abdul Razak even reprimanded Ong. When the truth was finally unraveled, none of the protagonists even had the courage to apologise. When you compare these journeyman politicians to the stature of Lee, we begin to see the difference in the calibre of our leaders.
It takes a man of great courage to say he is sorry when he is in the wrong, but it takes a man of greater courage to apologise even knowing that what he said was right and the truth.
What Lee said was merely a reinforcement of what is already common knowledge among the Chinese and Indian Malaysians. There is no way our leaders can deny that the pillar of the government policy is not to marginalise the minority communities.
Every policy of the government from education, civil service, police, army, procurement of contracts, appointment of CEOs in GLC companies, appointment of political posts are all crafted and conceived with only one purpose in mind.
Our leaders espoused unity among the races and compassion to all those needy and less fortunate. But unfortunately every leader that have so far assume the mantle of power have failed to live up to that expectation.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Monday, October 02, 2006
Thailand coup a blow to democracy
I wish to refer to Dr. Chandra Muzaffar's
article dated 22nd sept. regarding the coup in
Thailand.Of late I have noticed that this writer has
lost his moral compass and has written articles that
are skewed towards a religious bias.In his article of
Israels invasion of Lebanon he had been quick to
condemn Israel without even a whisper of condemnation
of HiZbullah's kidnapping of the Israel's soldiers.
In his article of the Thailand Coup, this
writer has the temerity to even subtlely suggest that
the coup was justified because'Thaksin had undermined
the principal instituition......his power'.If one
subscribe to the principles of democracy any form of
revolt against a legitimate elected government is
unacceptedable.No matter how noble the objectives no
matter how justified, the only way to remove a
legitimate govt is by way of the ballot box and not at
the barrel of the gun.
The writer's concluding paragraph is a
revealation of his hidden motive for supporting the
coup.The leader of the revolt is a muslim general and
the writer is hopeful that this will perhaps pave the
way for the muslim insurgents and secessionalists to
at last have autonomy in the southern region of
Pattani, Yala and Narrathiwat. In this respect the
writer is certainly misguided because no matter who
takes over the helm of the Thai govt, the southern
region will never be given any autonomy.
article dated 22nd sept. regarding the coup in
Thailand.Of late I have noticed that this writer has
lost his moral compass and has written articles that
are skewed towards a religious bias.In his article of
Israels invasion of Lebanon he had been quick to
condemn Israel without even a whisper of condemnation
of HiZbullah's kidnapping of the Israel's soldiers.
In his article of the Thailand Coup, this
writer has the temerity to even subtlely suggest that
the coup was justified because'Thaksin had undermined
the principal instituition......his power'.If one
subscribe to the principles of democracy any form of
revolt against a legitimate elected government is
unacceptedable.No matter how noble the objectives no
matter how justified, the only way to remove a
legitimate govt is by way of the ballot box and not at
the barrel of the gun.
The writer's concluding paragraph is a
revealation of his hidden motive for supporting the
coup.The leader of the revolt is a muslim general and
the writer is hopeful that this will perhaps pave the
way for the muslim insurgents and secessionalists to
at last have autonomy in the southern region of
Pattani, Yala and Narrathiwat. In this respect the
writer is certainly misguided because no matter who
takes over the helm of the Thai govt, the southern
region will never be given any autonomy.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Singapore Has every Right to Comment.
Our former P.M, Tun Mahathir once said that
he would call spade a spade and that he would not
hesitate to criticise or condemn any nation that in
his opinion had faltered.In this vein he had
unhesitatingly criticise U.S for their role in the
middle east, the Israels in their conflict with the
Paletines, the insurgents in the southern Thailand,and
to a certain extent even Singapore whenever there was
a need to find a bogeyman to justify our shortcomings
.So if our leaders has no hesitation in criticising
every one and sundry whenever they feel like it what
is the rationale for not been able to accept criticism
from a foreign perspective?
Our leaders must accept the fact that the
right to speak the truth is not the exclusive domain
of our leaders alone.Others who view our system and
our citizens been harshly treated have every right to
voice their misgivings.More so with Singapore
especially where the citizens of both countries have
an embryonic,historical relationship.Most Singaporeans
have relatives in Malaysia and vice versa.How the govt
treats its subject in Malaysia invariably is felt by
the citizens of Singapore because of this close
relationship.
It would be foolish for our leaders to deny that
what M.M Lee Kuan Yew said is not true.By the act of
denial our leaders are merely prolonging and
accentuating the disunity that is currently prevailing
in our country.However, M.M LKY is guilty of one
important ommission.The chinese are not the only
people being marginalised.The Indians, the aborigines,
and the rural malays should also be included in the
marginalised community.Quite obviously, the
beneficiaries have been the elite, politically
connected malays that have been in power for the last
49 years.
he would call spade a spade and that he would not
hesitate to criticise or condemn any nation that in
his opinion had faltered.In this vein he had
unhesitatingly criticise U.S for their role in the
middle east, the Israels in their conflict with the
Paletines, the insurgents in the southern Thailand,and
to a certain extent even Singapore whenever there was
a need to find a bogeyman to justify our shortcomings
.So if our leaders has no hesitation in criticising
every one and sundry whenever they feel like it what
is the rationale for not been able to accept criticism
from a foreign perspective?
Our leaders must accept the fact that the
right to speak the truth is not the exclusive domain
of our leaders alone.Others who view our system and
our citizens been harshly treated have every right to
voice their misgivings.More so with Singapore
especially where the citizens of both countries have
an embryonic,historical relationship.Most Singaporeans
have relatives in Malaysia and vice versa.How the govt
treats its subject in Malaysia invariably is felt by
the citizens of Singapore because of this close
relationship.
It would be foolish for our leaders to deny that
what M.M Lee Kuan Yew said is not true.By the act of
denial our leaders are merely prolonging and
accentuating the disunity that is currently prevailing
in our country.However, M.M LKY is guilty of one
important ommission.The chinese are not the only
people being marginalised.The Indians, the aborigines,
and the rural malays should also be included in the
marginalised community.Quite obviously, the
beneficiaries have been the elite, politically
connected malays that have been in power for the last
49 years.
Mahathir should look at his own legacy
Mahathir should look at his own legacy before he comments. Compared to Singapore which has devolped to a modern developed country, Malaysia is still struggling to achieve that in 2020, nearly 14 years behind.Mahathir is jealous of LKY legacy compared to his.After 22 years he has not achieved anything noteworthy other than his abilty to spend on mega projects to feed his greedy cronies.He keeps on harping on racists comment without thinking for one moment that is a half indian.Not surprising that the people at Kubang Pasu has already ignored him.Compared to LKY who is still held in high esteem, Mahathir is now a pariah by his own admission.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
What the Pope quoted was the truth.
What the pope said was quoted in full from the
own words of Emperor Manuelll Paleologos of the
Byzantime empire.So what is the Pope quilty of when
the actual words did not originate from his own words
and thoughts?What the Pope quoted was from a source of
a historical figure.If the Pope is guilty of quoting
the words of any person living or dead then daily
thousand of journalists are also gulty of such a
crime.
It is up to the islamic religious authorities to
disprove any fallacy in the claim by the Pope and not
to criticise him for bringing up something which have
stood the test of time.What we witness today is a
display of the truth in the statement of the
Pope.Muslim fanaticsm have reared its ulgly head and
now in the 21st century we still hear and see muslims
clamouring for apostates to be killed in the name of
the religion.We need not have to go far from our own
shores. Even in Malaysia the case of Lina Joy's
dilemma is a good example of how muslims have
degenerated to the dark period when Prophet Mohamad
and his band when round killing the non believers and
raping the wives of the slain husbands.These are
factual events depicted in the books of the revered
caliphs and the Holy Koran.Muslims should not be in a
denial mode.It is imperative for them to study the
errie and close resemblance of the terror that took
place in the medieval period of Prophet Mohamad and
the terror and fanticsm of the 21st
century.Revealation of those events bear a striking
resemblance of what is taking place currently in many
muslim countries.Unless and until such time when
muslims can look at themselves and bring changes that
are adaptable to the 21st century more and more
conflicts will bring the 'Clash of Civilsation' to a
reality.
own words of Emperor Manuelll Paleologos of the
Byzantime empire.So what is the Pope quilty of when
the actual words did not originate from his own words
and thoughts?What the Pope quoted was from a source of
a historical figure.If the Pope is guilty of quoting
the words of any person living or dead then daily
thousand of journalists are also gulty of such a
crime.
It is up to the islamic religious authorities to
disprove any fallacy in the claim by the Pope and not
to criticise him for bringing up something which have
stood the test of time.What we witness today is a
display of the truth in the statement of the
Pope.Muslim fanaticsm have reared its ulgly head and
now in the 21st century we still hear and see muslims
clamouring for apostates to be killed in the name of
the religion.We need not have to go far from our own
shores. Even in Malaysia the case of Lina Joy's
dilemma is a good example of how muslims have
degenerated to the dark period when Prophet Mohamad
and his band when round killing the non believers and
raping the wives of the slain husbands.These are
factual events depicted in the books of the revered
caliphs and the Holy Koran.Muslims should not be in a
denial mode.It is imperative for them to study the
errie and close resemblance of the terror that took
place in the medieval period of Prophet Mohamad and
the terror and fanticsm of the 21st
century.Revealation of those events bear a striking
resemblance of what is taking place currently in many
muslim countries.Unless and until such time when
muslims can look at themselves and bring changes that
are adaptable to the 21st century more and more
conflicts will bring the 'Clash of Civilsation' to a
reality.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Housing Ministry should Review Antiquated Policies
Its about time the Housing ministry review some
of its antiquated policies that were introduced some
30 years ago.The country is propelling itself to be a
developed nation in 2020 and yet we persist in having
to build low cost houses.This mandatory polcy that
requires housing developers to set aside 30% of their
land for low cost houses has not only left alot of
areas with unsold and unihabitat low cost houses but
has become an eyesore in alot of housing estate.
The demand for low cost houses may have been
appropriate 30 years ago but with improve standard of
living few people would opt to buy low cost houses
now.So if there is no longer a demand for such houses
why do the Housing Ministry still continue to make it
mandatory to build low cost houses when there is no
demand?This policy if left uncheck would later
contribute to slums where it would be a haven for drug
addicts.
Another policy that need to be reviewed is the 5%
to 10% per cent discount offered to bumiputra
buyers.when this policy was first introduced it was
intended to increase bumi ownership of houses.This is
especially in respect of properties that are within
the reach of the average Bumis.But now the policy has
lost its direction and purpose and have now included
high end property which were for the rich and
famous.What rationale is there for developers to give
discounts to those Bumis who can afford to buy luxury
high end property?The proper remedy is to put a cap on
a certain price range that will mandate the developer
to give discount to Bumis and certainly not a blanket
application of all property.The Housing Ministry must
keep up with the times and continue to review old
antiquated policies .If not our housing landscape
would be inundated with unwanted, unsold houses left
uninhabited for years to come.
tel:0199810828
of its antiquated policies that were introduced some
30 years ago.The country is propelling itself to be a
developed nation in 2020 and yet we persist in having
to build low cost houses.This mandatory polcy that
requires housing developers to set aside 30% of their
land for low cost houses has not only left alot of
areas with unsold and unihabitat low cost houses but
has become an eyesore in alot of housing estate.
The demand for low cost houses may have been
appropriate 30 years ago but with improve standard of
living few people would opt to buy low cost houses
now.So if there is no longer a demand for such houses
why do the Housing Ministry still continue to make it
mandatory to build low cost houses when there is no
demand?This policy if left uncheck would later
contribute to slums where it would be a haven for drug
addicts.
Another policy that need to be reviewed is the 5%
to 10% per cent discount offered to bumiputra
buyers.when this policy was first introduced it was
intended to increase bumi ownership of houses.This is
especially in respect of properties that are within
the reach of the average Bumis.But now the policy has
lost its direction and purpose and have now included
high end property which were for the rich and
famous.What rationale is there for developers to give
discounts to those Bumis who can afford to buy luxury
high end property?The proper remedy is to put a cap on
a certain price range that will mandate the developer
to give discount to Bumis and certainly not a blanket
application of all property.The Housing Ministry must
keep up with the times and continue to review old
antiquated policies .If not our housing landscape
would be inundated with unwanted, unsold houses left
uninhabited for years to come.
tel:0199810828
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Malaysia cannot send its forces to Lebanon.
Malaysia lost its opportunity to send its
soldiers under the U.N banner to Lebanon long before
the present crisis.From the moment the state of Israel
came to being, Malaysia has not recogised Israel and
do not have any diplomatic relations with the
country.Malaysia has predicated its foreign policy in
sympathy with the Palestine cause and that the common
thread was religion.Otherwise how could you explain
Malaysia's non-recognition of the state of
Israel?Israel has not offended nor threatened the
security of our country and yet we seem to regard
Israel as our enemy.
Israel has every right to reject Malaysia's
participation to send its forces to Lebanon for the
simple reason Malaysia cannot expect to be neutral in
case of any conflict because of its stance towards
IsraelWithout a doubt, Malaysia would
be on the side of the Hizbullah irrespective of who
was at fault.In the present conflict of Israel and
Hizbullah, Malaysia has levelled its criticism at
Israel without rebuking Hizbullah for the kidnapping
and killing of Israel's soldier in Israel'
territory.This alone has cast serious doubts on
Malaysia to be a country that can exert its authority
in Lebanon with fairness.
soldiers under the U.N banner to Lebanon long before
the present crisis.From the moment the state of Israel
came to being, Malaysia has not recogised Israel and
do not have any diplomatic relations with the
country.Malaysia has predicated its foreign policy in
sympathy with the Palestine cause and that the common
thread was religion.Otherwise how could you explain
Malaysia's non-recognition of the state of
Israel?Israel has not offended nor threatened the
security of our country and yet we seem to regard
Israel as our enemy.
Israel has every right to reject Malaysia's
participation to send its forces to Lebanon for the
simple reason Malaysia cannot expect to be neutral in
case of any conflict because of its stance towards
IsraelWithout a doubt, Malaysia would
be on the side of the Hizbullah irrespective of who
was at fault.In the present conflict of Israel and
Hizbullah, Malaysia has levelled its criticism at
Israel without rebuking Hizbullah for the kidnapping
and killing of Israel's soldier in Israel'
territory.This alone has cast serious doubts on
Malaysia to be a country that can exert its authority
in Lebanon with fairness.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Petronas Hidden Agenda
Petronas is currenetly riding on a wave of
unprecedented financial success not of its making but
by a stroke of good fortune that seem to bless all oil
producing country.The profits generated from this
corporation which belongs to the govt of Malaysia and
by extension belongs to its citizen.
Since its inception it has not been transparent
in its financial reports and its actual financial
profile is only privy to a few top govt leaders.As a
citizen, may we ask the govt why are they perpetuating
such secrecy in their financial and managerial
performance.The govt is merely a custodian of our
nations resources and every citizen is surely entitled
to gauge and evaluate the performance of an entity
that generate so much wealth for the nation.
When an entity remains a recluse and its
financial record is hidden from public view, the only
conclusion we can surmise is that it has a hidden
agenda. And what may that secret hidden agenda be?
Petronas is first and foremost guilty of
discriminatory practice in its distribution of the
nation's wealth.100% of all petrol station are given
to malays to operate.Petronas offshore contracts are
selectively phased to bumiputra company with strong
political connections.Petronas employs 20,000 personel
and non-malays constitute only 1% of its
workforce.Even its Petronas university is not exempted
from discrimination with hardly a 10% non malay
enrolment being given places.
What about govt bailouts?The bailouts of Bank
Bumiputra,Bank Rakyat,BMF,and the Mahathir's son
Perkapalan sold to MISC and a host of others were all
malay business interests that were rescued with
Petronas funds.
All the above reasons clearly provides us with a
clear notion why the govt wish to keep Petronas record
a secret.It would have a hard time explaining to its
citizens why Petronas policies was so discriminatory
and skewed towards only one community.
unprecedented financial success not of its making but
by a stroke of good fortune that seem to bless all oil
producing country.The profits generated from this
corporation which belongs to the govt of Malaysia and
by extension belongs to its citizen.
Since its inception it has not been transparent
in its financial reports and its actual financial
profile is only privy to a few top govt leaders.As a
citizen, may we ask the govt why are they perpetuating
such secrecy in their financial and managerial
performance.The govt is merely a custodian of our
nations resources and every citizen is surely entitled
to gauge and evaluate the performance of an entity
that generate so much wealth for the nation.
When an entity remains a recluse and its
financial record is hidden from public view, the only
conclusion we can surmise is that it has a hidden
agenda. And what may that secret hidden agenda be?
Petronas is first and foremost guilty of
discriminatory practice in its distribution of the
nation's wealth.100% of all petrol station are given
to malays to operate.Petronas offshore contracts are
selectively phased to bumiputra company with strong
political connections.Petronas employs 20,000 personel
and non-malays constitute only 1% of its
workforce.Even its Petronas university is not exempted
from discrimination with hardly a 10% non malay
enrolment being given places.
What about govt bailouts?The bailouts of Bank
Bumiputra,Bank Rakyat,BMF,and the Mahathir's son
Perkapalan sold to MISC and a host of others were all
malay business interests that were rescued with
Petronas funds.
All the above reasons clearly provides us with a
clear notion why the govt wish to keep Petronas record
a secret.It would have a hard time explaining to its
citizens why Petronas policies was so discriminatory
and skewed towards only one community.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Muslims do not have a choice in Malaysia.
I wish to refer to Raja Saeed's letter, 'choice
to leave yours.'
Either the writer is an Indonesian muslim or he
is totally ignorant of the prevailing Syariah Laws in
Malaysia.The constituition of malaysia explicitely
states that all malays are muslims and it is
impossible for any malay to renounce Islam and convert
to another religion.In other words,malays are born
muslims and die as muslims.No matter what the Koran
says that Islam do not practice compulsion, this does
not apply here in Malaysia.Simply put, the malays just
have no choice.They have to accept their chosen faith
by birth and apothasy is a luxury they dont enjoy.
However, if the writer is an Indonesian the
situation is different.There, inter-marriage between
christians and muslims are quite common and there is
no compulsion that each have to convert to the
other.Yes, here in Indonesia we have a choice and that
is the main difference in the way Islam is practice in
the two countries
to leave yours.'
Either the writer is an Indonesian muslim or he
is totally ignorant of the prevailing Syariah Laws in
Malaysia.The constituition of malaysia explicitely
states that all malays are muslims and it is
impossible for any malay to renounce Islam and convert
to another religion.In other words,malays are born
muslims and die as muslims.No matter what the Koran
says that Islam do not practice compulsion, this does
not apply here in Malaysia.Simply put, the malays just
have no choice.They have to accept their chosen faith
by birth and apothasy is a luxury they dont enjoy.
However, if the writer is an Indonesian the
situation is different.There, inter-marriage between
christians and muslims are quite common and there is
no compulsion that each have to convert to the
other.Yes, here in Indonesia we have a choice and that
is the main difference in the way Islam is practice in
the two countries
Saturday, July 22, 2006
PAS is showing its True colour
Finally, Pas is beginning to show its true
colour by protesting at the Article 11 Public Forum in
Johore Baru.Despite its efforts to win the hearts and
minds of the non-malays, its deeds have proven that
once in power they will not suffer any public
discourse or debate where human rights are concerned.
Earlier in Penang they suceeded in disrupting the
forum held there.The police not wanting an incident
adviced the organisers to prematurely end their
forum.But many agreed it was a wrong decision as the
forum was a legitimate platform for a public debate on
an issue which has far reaching implication for its
citizens.And quite rightly they deserved to be heard.
This time in Johore Baru the protest did not
derail the organisers the legitimate right to hold
the forum.But the protest held at the instigation and
behest of PAS has clearly shown that they are
intolerant of any views and debate express by the
non-malays.
colour by protesting at the Article 11 Public Forum in
Johore Baru.Despite its efforts to win the hearts and
minds of the non-malays, its deeds have proven that
once in power they will not suffer any public
discourse or debate where human rights are concerned.
Earlier in Penang they suceeded in disrupting the
forum held there.The police not wanting an incident
adviced the organisers to prematurely end their
forum.But many agreed it was a wrong decision as the
forum was a legitimate platform for a public debate on
an issue which has far reaching implication for its
citizens.And quite rightly they deserved to be heard.
This time in Johore Baru the protest did not
derail the organisers the legitimate right to hold
the forum.But the protest held at the instigation and
behest of PAS has clearly shown that they are
intolerant of any views and debate express by the
non-malays.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Religion is the problem Facing Mixed union.
I would like to refer to sonny Mak's
article,'Nothing wrong with mixed union.'
Mak seem to miss the point why most chinese
parents object to mixed marriages with the malay
race.The objection does not stem from racial reason
but because of religious reasons.There are alot of
mixed marriages between chinese and
indians,eurasians,mat sallehs,kadazans etc and most
parents have no problem with that.But the moment when
a chinese man or a woman enters a relationship with a
malay man or a woman all hell break loose.This is
especially so when the relationship becomes serious
and marriage is on the card.Relatives from all sides
will make a beeline to the affected party and try to
convince him/her the pitfalls of such a union.If
everything fails the threat of disowning the son or
daughter usually do the trick and the relationship is
immediately put to an end.
Chinese parents dont mind their children marrying
any race as long as religion does not come into the
equation.They dont want their children to convert just
for the sake of marrying someone.The idea of changing
one's faith in order to get married is repulsive and
totally devoid of logic.Chinese marrying Indians do
not face this problem since religious beliefs are not
so rigid among the Indians and there are alot of
common grounds especially if they are Hindus and
Buddhists.
So Mak is wrong to presume that parental
objection is without any valid reason.The force
conversion of religion is the main reason why chinese
parents will not give their blessing for a
chinese-malay union.
article,'Nothing wrong with mixed union.'
Mak seem to miss the point why most chinese
parents object to mixed marriages with the malay
race.The objection does not stem from racial reason
but because of religious reasons.There are alot of
mixed marriages between chinese and
indians,eurasians,mat sallehs,kadazans etc and most
parents have no problem with that.But the moment when
a chinese man or a woman enters a relationship with a
malay man or a woman all hell break loose.This is
especially so when the relationship becomes serious
and marriage is on the card.Relatives from all sides
will make a beeline to the affected party and try to
convince him/her the pitfalls of such a union.If
everything fails the threat of disowning the son or
daughter usually do the trick and the relationship is
immediately put to an end.
Chinese parents dont mind their children marrying
any race as long as religion does not come into the
equation.They dont want their children to convert just
for the sake of marrying someone.The idea of changing
one's faith in order to get married is repulsive and
totally devoid of logic.Chinese marrying Indians do
not face this problem since religious beliefs are not
so rigid among the Indians and there are alot of
common grounds especially if they are Hindus and
Buddhists.
So Mak is wrong to presume that parental
objection is without any valid reason.The force
conversion of religion is the main reason why chinese
parents will not give their blessing for a
chinese-malay union.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Certification of Houses should be left to the professionals.
Much has been written about the decision by the
Works minister S Samy Vellu that architects and
Engineers will soon be responsible for the issuance of
certificate of Fitness (C.F).I take particular umbrage
at the comments of S.M Mohamad Idris of the
consumers'Association of Penang regarding his
objection to the proposal of allowing architects and
Engineers to issue the C.F.
Mohamad Idris would be well advised to confine
his comments to matters that he is familiar with and
not to adopt arm chair critic of matters that he has
very little knowledge of.
Since the beginning of our housing industry the
issuance of the C.F have been with the authority of
the local councils after having obtain approvals from
about a dozen govt bodies.Most if not all of the local
councils are manned by ordinary civil servants whose
knowledge and expertise in the building industry is
virtually nil.Despite this lack of expertise the law
till now demands that we obtain certification from
these authorities whose speed of approvals depends on
the quantum of money changing hands.With the need to
obtain approvals from a dozen of these govt bodies
imagine the bureacratic delay that a developer has to
endure.This result in an inordinate delay in the
issuance of the C.F sometimes stretching over a period
of years if no money change hands.
With the introduction of responsibilty of issuance
of C.F to architects and Engineers there is every
reason to believe that due care and diligence would be
exercise on compliance with specifications and
workmanship.It is very unlikely that these
professionals would risk their rice bowl by
compromising on quality and shoddy workmanship.At the
end of the day the responsibilty of issuing C.F comes
with an attached responsibilty of being liable to any
litigation that may arise as a result of their
certification.
From the inception of the Housing Act, we have
relied on the local authorities to issue the
certificate of Fitness.This has resulted in
bureacratic delay, corruption and abandonment of
housing project.The time has come for us to move
forward and experiment with a new method of
certification.It would be a great disservice to the
housing industry if critics like Mohamad Idris put a
nail to the coffin of this new proposal even before it
is implemented.
Works minister S Samy Vellu that architects and
Engineers will soon be responsible for the issuance of
certificate of Fitness (C.F).I take particular umbrage
at the comments of S.M Mohamad Idris of the
consumers'Association of Penang regarding his
objection to the proposal of allowing architects and
Engineers to issue the C.F.
Mohamad Idris would be well advised to confine
his comments to matters that he is familiar with and
not to adopt arm chair critic of matters that he has
very little knowledge of.
Since the beginning of our housing industry the
issuance of the C.F have been with the authority of
the local councils after having obtain approvals from
about a dozen govt bodies.Most if not all of the local
councils are manned by ordinary civil servants whose
knowledge and expertise in the building industry is
virtually nil.Despite this lack of expertise the law
till now demands that we obtain certification from
these authorities whose speed of approvals depends on
the quantum of money changing hands.With the need to
obtain approvals from a dozen of these govt bodies
imagine the bureacratic delay that a developer has to
endure.This result in an inordinate delay in the
issuance of the C.F sometimes stretching over a period
of years if no money change hands.
With the introduction of responsibilty of issuance
of C.F to architects and Engineers there is every
reason to believe that due care and diligence would be
exercise on compliance with specifications and
workmanship.It is very unlikely that these
professionals would risk their rice bowl by
compromising on quality and shoddy workmanship.At the
end of the day the responsibilty of issuing C.F comes
with an attached responsibilty of being liable to any
litigation that may arise as a result of their
certification.
From the inception of the Housing Act, we have
relied on the local authorities to issue the
certificate of Fitness.This has resulted in
bureacratic delay, corruption and abandonment of
housing project.The time has come for us to move
forward and experiment with a new method of
certification.It would be a great disservice to the
housing industry if critics like Mohamad Idris put a
nail to the coffin of this new proposal even before it
is implemented.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Beat The Best in South-East Asia First.
The Youth and Sports Ministry's proposal to
build a sports complex in London is so hilarious if
not for the fact that it has been seriously planned to
be implemented soon.How minister Datuk Azalina Othman
could support and initiate such a preposterous idea
speaks volume of the type and calibre of our inept
minister.
What rational reasons are there for our country
to transport our future sportsmen to a faraway place
half a globe away in order to grasp the fundamentals
of competing with the world's best?Frankly I cannot
find even one good reason to support such a
ridiculous idea.
The Minister would be well advised to follow the
old adage of not trying to walk even before learning
how to crawl.What is the logic of sending our
sportsmen to a cold, foreign place to learn how to
compete with the very best when we cant even compete
with mediocre sportsmen in South-East Asia which share
a common familiar climate?Shouldn't our sportsmen
compete and excel first in South-East Asia then in
Asia before taking the best in the world? Our
Minister's faith in our sportsmen is certainly
misplaced if she think we can compete with the world's
best before even been able to excel among south-east
Asia and Asia's best.If we cannot beat mediocre
opponents in familiar and similar climate then what
are the chances of us excelling in a cold foreign
unfamiliar land?
To spend $490 million in one of the most
expensive place in the world without any certainty of
success is one of the most irresponsible act of our
leaders.I strongly urge those responsible for making
this decision to seriously revoke this preposterous
proposal.
build a sports complex in London is so hilarious if
not for the fact that it has been seriously planned to
be implemented soon.How minister Datuk Azalina Othman
could support and initiate such a preposterous idea
speaks volume of the type and calibre of our inept
minister.
What rational reasons are there for our country
to transport our future sportsmen to a faraway place
half a globe away in order to grasp the fundamentals
of competing with the world's best?Frankly I cannot
find even one good reason to support such a
ridiculous idea.
The Minister would be well advised to follow the
old adage of not trying to walk even before learning
how to crawl.What is the logic of sending our
sportsmen to a cold, foreign place to learn how to
compete with the very best when we cant even compete
with mediocre sportsmen in South-East Asia which share
a common familiar climate?Shouldn't our sportsmen
compete and excel first in South-East Asia then in
Asia before taking the best in the world? Our
Minister's faith in our sportsmen is certainly
misplaced if she think we can compete with the world's
best before even been able to excel among south-east
Asia and Asia's best.If we cannot beat mediocre
opponents in familiar and similar climate then what
are the chances of us excelling in a cold foreign
unfamiliar land?
To spend $490 million in one of the most
expensive place in the world without any certainty of
success is one of the most irresponsible act of our
leaders.I strongly urge those responsible for making
this decision to seriously revoke this preposterous
proposal.
Monday, July 03, 2006
We are a Nation Of Barbarians.
A great man once said that a civilise nation is
judge by the way a nation treat its animal.If that is
the yardstick used to gauge the civility of our
country then the only conclusion I can make is that we
are a nation of barbarians.
I wish to refer to your article 'owner of 25 dogs
tries to save pets from deaths'.The people involved in
the carnage to kill those dogs are first and foremost
barbarians of the highest pedigree.In their resolve to
kill those dogs there was not the slightest hint of
compassion to at least capture the animals alive and
put them with the RSPCA so that they could be
adopted.Why should these dogs be killed when they have
not bitten anyone?The only complaint if there was any
was because of the stench and the numbers of dogs
staying in the premise.If that was their only offence
was killing a justified act?
Once again and too often we see enforcement
officials entrusted with their jobs have deemed it
neccessary to use more brutal force than what is
required of them.
judge by the way a nation treat its animal.If that is
the yardstick used to gauge the civility of our
country then the only conclusion I can make is that we
are a nation of barbarians.
I wish to refer to your article 'owner of 25 dogs
tries to save pets from deaths'.The people involved in
the carnage to kill those dogs are first and foremost
barbarians of the highest pedigree.In their resolve to
kill those dogs there was not the slightest hint of
compassion to at least capture the animals alive and
put them with the RSPCA so that they could be
adopted.Why should these dogs be killed when they have
not bitten anyone?The only complaint if there was any
was because of the stench and the numbers of dogs
staying in the premise.If that was their only offence
was killing a justified act?
Once again and too often we see enforcement
officials entrusted with their jobs have deemed it
neccessary to use more brutal force than what is
required of them.
Saturday, July 01, 2006
Custom Dept should not Fool the public.
Custom Prevention division Head,Adnan ariffin talk
about greater transparency by forming a committee to
surpervise the auction.But the question is why is the
sale confined to civil servants and top govt officials
only?.All confiscated vehicles belong to the govt and
therefore indirectly belongs to the taxpayer.Then why
should the auction be only offered to these elite govt
officials?In order to have more transparency, why cant
the auction be opened to all malaysians and given to
the highest bidder.To say that there is a reserve
price and then selectively give it to a low bidder is
not something we could call transparent.In fact such a
practice could result in abuse and corruption.
Afterall what is stopping the committee from
conspiring to give the auction to his friends at a
negotiated low reserve price.Adnan should not try to
fool the taxpayer by saying this system of auction is
transparent when it is fraught with abuse and
corruption.
about greater transparency by forming a committee to
surpervise the auction.But the question is why is the
sale confined to civil servants and top govt officials
only?.All confiscated vehicles belong to the govt and
therefore indirectly belongs to the taxpayer.Then why
should the auction be only offered to these elite govt
officials?In order to have more transparency, why cant
the auction be opened to all malaysians and given to
the highest bidder.To say that there is a reserve
price and then selectively give it to a low bidder is
not something we could call transparent.In fact such a
practice could result in abuse and corruption.
Afterall what is stopping the committee from
conspiring to give the auction to his friends at a
negotiated low reserve price.Adnan should not try to
fool the taxpayer by saying this system of auction is
transparent when it is fraught with abuse and
corruption.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Why do dogs attack humans?
I wish to refer to your article dated 28th June
instant with the caption "dog attack was unprovoked.'I
live in a mixed rural neighbourhood comprising of
malays, chinese and siamese in Kelantan.I love dogs
and animals in general but because of my proximity
with my malay neighbours I find it inappropriate to
keep them.However my siamese neighbours did not have
the same reservation and one actually kept a few
mongrel dogs as pets in their compound.Whenever the
young malay neighbourhood's children pass my siamese
neighbour's house they would throw pebbles and stones
at the sleeping dogs.This provacative acts caused the
dogs to bark and sometimes coming out of their
enclosures to chase the malay children.Sad to say this
act of provacation was not only confined to the malay
children but also to the adults malay.
We must not underestimate the intelligence of
dogs.From then on, these dogs will always inevitably
bark and chase malay children passing in front of my
siamese neighbour's house.Not surprisingly, the dogs
did not bark or chase any of the chinese or Siamese
children who had not provoked the dogs.
It is rather sad that muslims especially
children are taught at a young age to detest dogs in
view of their religious taboos.This instinctive
behaviour to attack and provoke dogs whenever they
come in contact is the cause of many attacks on malay
children or for that matter any children who choose to
provoke them unnecessarily.
Perhaps muslim religious ulamas could provide
some education that dogs like all other animals are
also God's creature and like all other animals they
deserve as much to live .
instant with the caption "dog attack was unprovoked.'I
live in a mixed rural neighbourhood comprising of
malays, chinese and siamese in Kelantan.I love dogs
and animals in general but because of my proximity
with my malay neighbours I find it inappropriate to
keep them.However my siamese neighbours did not have
the same reservation and one actually kept a few
mongrel dogs as pets in their compound.Whenever the
young malay neighbourhood's children pass my siamese
neighbour's house they would throw pebbles and stones
at the sleeping dogs.This provacative acts caused the
dogs to bark and sometimes coming out of their
enclosures to chase the malay children.Sad to say this
act of provacation was not only confined to the malay
children but also to the adults malay.
We must not underestimate the intelligence of
dogs.From then on, these dogs will always inevitably
bark and chase malay children passing in front of my
siamese neighbour's house.Not surprisingly, the dogs
did not bark or chase any of the chinese or Siamese
children who had not provoked the dogs.
It is rather sad that muslims especially
children are taught at a young age to detest dogs in
view of their religious taboos.This instinctive
behaviour to attack and provoke dogs whenever they
come in contact is the cause of many attacks on malay
children or for that matter any children who choose to
provoke them unnecessarily.
Perhaps muslim religious ulamas could provide
some education that dogs like all other animals are
also God's creature and like all other animals they
deserve as much to live .
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Demolishing Hindu Temples.
The demolishing of Hindu temples in several
states recently caused outrage among the indian
communnity.But looking at it objectively, it was
something long overdue but sadly the manner in which
it was done left alot of disharmony and
discontentment.Part of the blame rest solely with the
indian community for building shrines on an ad hoc
approach.Many not only flouted local regulations in
putting up those shrines but many erected their
shrines on state and private lands without proper
authorisation.
In Negri sembilan, the presence of such
shrines are not only an eye sore but have been
flourishing without proper approvals.These shrines
whether built on state or private land would have to
be eventually demolished.Building of shrines or Hindu
temples cannot be allowed to continue without proper
control and regulation.
However, part of the blame should also be
shouldered by the respective state govt.While mosques
have been allowed to flourish in practically every
nook and corner of townships, the govt. has totally
ignored the allocation of land and funds for other
religion to build their temples, churches and
shrines.It is really very sad that while the govt
allow the practice of other faiths it has not been
fair in its allocation of land for other faiths to
build places of worship.
The govt cannot continue to remain indifferent
especially when religion plays an important role in
every ones life.For Malaysians to live in harmony with
its diverse race and religion the govt cannot simply
ignore the problem of land for other faiths to build
places of worship.To do so would be at their own
peril.
states recently caused outrage among the indian
communnity.But looking at it objectively, it was
something long overdue but sadly the manner in which
it was done left alot of disharmony and
discontentment.Part of the blame rest solely with the
indian community for building shrines on an ad hoc
approach.Many not only flouted local regulations in
putting up those shrines but many erected their
shrines on state and private lands without proper
authorisation.
In Negri sembilan, the presence of such
shrines are not only an eye sore but have been
flourishing without proper approvals.These shrines
whether built on state or private land would have to
be eventually demolished.Building of shrines or Hindu
temples cannot be allowed to continue without proper
control and regulation.
However, part of the blame should also be
shouldered by the respective state govt.While mosques
have been allowed to flourish in practically every
nook and corner of townships, the govt. has totally
ignored the allocation of land and funds for other
religion to build their temples, churches and
shrines.It is really very sad that while the govt
allow the practice of other faiths it has not been
fair in its allocation of land for other faiths to
build places of worship.
The govt cannot continue to remain indifferent
especially when religion plays an important role in
every ones life.For Malaysians to live in harmony with
its diverse race and religion the govt cannot simply
ignore the problem of land for other faiths to build
places of worship.To do so would be at their own
peril.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
There Are Crooked Judges.
Who says there is allegations without any basis?The C.J must be ignorant about what is happening at his doorstep.I was a victim of a corrupt judge.I made a formal complaint to the then Lord President Tun Dzaiddin and he didnt even reply to my letter.Naturally there was no action and I was just helpless as there was nowhere I could turn too.
My case was a straight forward one.A lorry rammed into my store and caused the building to collapse. I made a police report and proceeded to file a civil suit against the owner of the lorry. Since he was covered under insurance, the latter defended the suit.As a layman I was convinced it was an open shut case as through no fault of mine the lorry carelessly rammed into my building.My lawyer even pointed out to the judge that I could not be blamed for the accident since it was impossible for the building to cause the accident.Therefore it was not even probable that I had contributed in any way to the accident.But that was not the case because I lost the case. I would have left the matter as it was and blame it on my lawyer if not for an incident I witnessed with my own eyes.
On the morning of my case as I made my way to the court's canteen I saw the insurance lawyer chatting and laughing merrily with the judge at the canteen.I was so disgusted at the sight and felt at that moment my case would be prejudiced by the close rapport between the Insurance counsel and the judge.
I immediately wrote a letter to the then Lord President, Tun Dzaiddin and related the whole incident, disclosing my full name and the court involved.I did not even receive a courtesy reply and no action was taken of the matter.I feel so aggrieved at the whole matter but what recourse do I have?
If the judiciary is serious about cases of corruption then it should set up a committee to review such cases like mine and investigate why such straight forward case like mine could end up losing to the insurance company.
Because of this case I have completely lost faith in our judiciary.
My case was a straight forward one.A lorry rammed into my store and caused the building to collapse. I made a police report and proceeded to file a civil suit against the owner of the lorry. Since he was covered under insurance, the latter defended the suit.As a layman I was convinced it was an open shut case as through no fault of mine the lorry carelessly rammed into my building.My lawyer even pointed out to the judge that I could not be blamed for the accident since it was impossible for the building to cause the accident.Therefore it was not even probable that I had contributed in any way to the accident.But that was not the case because I lost the case. I would have left the matter as it was and blame it on my lawyer if not for an incident I witnessed with my own eyes.
On the morning of my case as I made my way to the court's canteen I saw the insurance lawyer chatting and laughing merrily with the judge at the canteen.I was so disgusted at the sight and felt at that moment my case would be prejudiced by the close rapport between the Insurance counsel and the judge.
I immediately wrote a letter to the then Lord President, Tun Dzaiddin and related the whole incident, disclosing my full name and the court involved.I did not even receive a courtesy reply and no action was taken of the matter.I feel so aggrieved at the whole matter but what recourse do I have?
If the judiciary is serious about cases of corruption then it should set up a committee to review such cases like mine and investigate why such straight forward case like mine could end up losing to the insurance company.
Because of this case I have completely lost faith in our judiciary.
Monday, May 01, 2006
What is the big deal selling sand to Singapore?
Frankly, can anyone tell me whats the big deal in
selling sand to Singapore?To me it is purely and
simply a commercial decision.If the price is right and
if we have sand whats wrong in selling sand to
Singapore.? Whats the big deal?Unless some idiot
equate selling sand as selling part of Malaysia.If not
if we have surplus sand why not sell as much sand as
Singapore wants.
Now coming to the use of air space by Singapore. Whats
the big deal here? Is there a compromise in our
sovereignty by allowing them to use our air
space?Rubbish. It is the norm for neighbours to allow
each other to use each other air space for security
and surveillance purpose.After all we are not at war.
So what is really wrong with the gesture of allowing
the use of the air space.Surely Singapore is not going
to ues our air space to subvert our country.
If both of the squabble is over a non issue why
pretend to blame Singapore for asserting its right for
a balance benefit?Afterall why should Singapore come
out with $700 million to build its side of the bridge
if it does not benefit them at all.
The trouble with our leaders is that they have always
treated Singapore as a small brother they think they
can bully.But looking at their economic progress and
their superlative adminisration of their small Island
state, I am begining to wonder who is the big brother
and who is the small brother.
Monday, May 01, 2006 9:28:40 PM
selling sand to Singapore?To me it is purely and
simply a commercial decision.If the price is right and
if we have sand whats wrong in selling sand to
Singapore.? Whats the big deal?Unless some idiot
equate selling sand as selling part of Malaysia.If not
if we have surplus sand why not sell as much sand as
Singapore wants.
Now coming to the use of air space by Singapore. Whats
the big deal here? Is there a compromise in our
sovereignty by allowing them to use our air
space?Rubbish. It is the norm for neighbours to allow
each other to use each other air space for security
and surveillance purpose.After all we are not at war.
So what is really wrong with the gesture of allowing
the use of the air space.Surely Singapore is not going
to ues our air space to subvert our country.
If both of the squabble is over a non issue why
pretend to blame Singapore for asserting its right for
a balance benefit?Afterall why should Singapore come
out with $700 million to build its side of the bridge
if it does not benefit them at all.
The trouble with our leaders is that they have always
treated Singapore as a small brother they think they
can bully.But looking at their economic progress and
their superlative adminisration of their small Island
state, I am begining to wonder who is the big brother
and who is the small brother.
Monday, May 01, 2006 9:28:40 PM
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Little Napoleons at Land Office.
I would like to refer to the article
'fourteen years and no strata titles.'As a developer I
sympathise with owners of such building.The
fundamental problem lies not with the developer but
with the respective land office that are responsible
for the issuance of the strata titles.This problem is
endemic in all states and in all building that
requires strata titles to be issued.
It is common knowledge that those who are
responsible to issue strata titles in the land office
are reluctant to do so unless and until they are paid
by the developers.The developers on the other hand
having completed their work and having obtain their
certificate of fitness are reluctant to pay any under
table money to those corrupt land office staff.Hence
we have a stalemate which in many instances can drag
on for twenty years or even more.
The case of the apartments build at Vista
Komanvel is an example.The Commonwealth games
apartment were completed in 1998 and used to house the
atheletes.After the Games the apartment were sold.
Nearly 10 years down the road those unfortunate enough
to buy are left without a strata title.What reason can
the land office have for not issuing starta titles
when the apartments were initially certified fit to
house atheletes and subsequently deemed fit to be sold
to buyers for occupation?
When buyers fail to obtain strata titles the
blame no longer rest with the developer.Their duty and
obligation ends when they obtain the certtificate of
fitness for occupation.In such instances the full
blame rest solely with the land office where the
little Napoleons will not budge unless and until they
are paid under table money.
'fourteen years and no strata titles.'As a developer I
sympathise with owners of such building.The
fundamental problem lies not with the developer but
with the respective land office that are responsible
for the issuance of the strata titles.This problem is
endemic in all states and in all building that
requires strata titles to be issued.
It is common knowledge that those who are
responsible to issue strata titles in the land office
are reluctant to do so unless and until they are paid
by the developers.The developers on the other hand
having completed their work and having obtain their
certificate of fitness are reluctant to pay any under
table money to those corrupt land office staff.Hence
we have a stalemate which in many instances can drag
on for twenty years or even more.
The case of the apartments build at Vista
Komanvel is an example.The Commonwealth games
apartment were completed in 1998 and used to house the
atheletes.After the Games the apartment were sold.
Nearly 10 years down the road those unfortunate enough
to buy are left without a strata title.What reason can
the land office have for not issuing starta titles
when the apartments were initially certified fit to
house atheletes and subsequently deemed fit to be sold
to buyers for occupation?
When buyers fail to obtain strata titles the
blame no longer rest with the developer.Their duty and
obligation ends when they obtain the certtificate of
fitness for occupation.In such instances the full
blame rest solely with the land office where the
little Napoleons will not budge unless and until they
are paid under table money.
Friday, April 07, 2006
National Schools Doomed to fail
The govt don't seem to know why non malay
parents dont want to send their children to National
schools.In the 9MP, the govt propose to introduce
mandarin, tamil classes and then went on to suggest
that this will solve the problem of poor enrolment of
non malays in National schools.Sadly this will not be
the case and National schools are doomed to fail.
The issue here is not about language.It has not
always been about language but because of other
issues.During the time of Tuanku Abdul Rahman, when
National schools was conducted in the English medium
droves of chinese and indians together with malays
were enrolled in National schools.Vernacular schools
were slowly forced to close because of lack of
enrolment.During that time there was no mandarin or
tamil taught in those schools and inspite of this it
was the choice of every parents irrespective of race
to send their children to National schools.
Why has the situation changed since then and why
are non malay parents shuning national schools?The
answer lies with the present set up and structure of
national schools.Time and time again this have been
brought to the notice of the relevant authorities but
the problem has never been addressed.
National schools in its present form has been
transformed to semi religious malay
schools.Headmasters and headmistress of these schools
have deemed it fit to impose their islamic standards
on attire, morality and conduct to all and sundry
without regard whether they are muslims or non
muslims.Relgious obligations are performed during
classes in the presence of non muslims who are suppose
to follow the rituals.
There was a time when National schools have a
healthy mix of malays and non malays teachers but now
National schools are predominantly of one race.When
this happen there is no longer any racial and
religious sensitivity.Collectively it was alright to
propagate their religion to all and sundry
irrespective of race.
Unless and until such time when the relevant
authorities come to appreciate the realty of the
situation it is unlikely there will be any significant
response to the govt's effort in promoting enrolment
of non malays in national schools.
parents dont want to send their children to National
schools.In the 9MP, the govt propose to introduce
mandarin, tamil classes and then went on to suggest
that this will solve the problem of poor enrolment of
non malays in National schools.Sadly this will not be
the case and National schools are doomed to fail.
The issue here is not about language.It has not
always been about language but because of other
issues.During the time of Tuanku Abdul Rahman, when
National schools was conducted in the English medium
droves of chinese and indians together with malays
were enrolled in National schools.Vernacular schools
were slowly forced to close because of lack of
enrolment.During that time there was no mandarin or
tamil taught in those schools and inspite of this it
was the choice of every parents irrespective of race
to send their children to National schools.
Why has the situation changed since then and why
are non malay parents shuning national schools?The
answer lies with the present set up and structure of
national schools.Time and time again this have been
brought to the notice of the relevant authorities but
the problem has never been addressed.
National schools in its present form has been
transformed to semi religious malay
schools.Headmasters and headmistress of these schools
have deemed it fit to impose their islamic standards
on attire, morality and conduct to all and sundry
without regard whether they are muslims or non
muslims.Relgious obligations are performed during
classes in the presence of non muslims who are suppose
to follow the rituals.
There was a time when National schools have a
healthy mix of malays and non malays teachers but now
National schools are predominantly of one race.When
this happen there is no longer any racial and
religious sensitivity.Collectively it was alright to
propagate their religion to all and sundry
irrespective of race.
Unless and until such time when the relevant
authorities come to appreciate the realty of the
situation it is unlikely there will be any significant
response to the govt's effort in promoting enrolment
of non malays in national schools.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
When 15 is better than 16
Before attempting to reform the country's
education system, the education ministry should learn
how to define what constitute a top scorer. Such basic
principles in determining a top scorer seems to be an
enigma to our education ministry and reflects poorly
on their ability to perform a simple task properly.
What logic and rationale can they conclude that
a student who takes 15 subjects and obtain 15A1s is
better than a student who takes 16 subjects and obtain
15A1s and 1A2? By any stretch of imagination , common
sense tell us that Chong Huey Ee should be the top
student by virtue of her extra 1A2 nothwithstanding
that it was an A2. The fact that she had already
obtained 15 A1s is already equivalent to the declared
top student of 15A1s but in addition has an extra
A2.If such simple logic is lost at the education
ministry then better not resort to try an reform the
education system.
education system, the education ministry should learn
how to define what constitute a top scorer. Such basic
principles in determining a top scorer seems to be an
enigma to our education ministry and reflects poorly
on their ability to perform a simple task properly.
What logic and rationale can they conclude that
a student who takes 15 subjects and obtain 15A1s is
better than a student who takes 16 subjects and obtain
15A1s and 1A2? By any stretch of imagination , common
sense tell us that Chong Huey Ee should be the top
student by virtue of her extra 1A2 nothwithstanding
that it was an A2. The fact that she had already
obtained 15 A1s is already equivalent to the declared
top student of 15A1s but in addition has an extra
A2.If such simple logic is lost at the education
ministry then better not resort to try an reform the
education system.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Reduce Import duty on cars
The response to the price increase of petrol
has not being encouraging.For the first time in its
history of petrol price increase it has to review and
convince the general populace why it is essential to
impose such a drastic hike.The govt's petrol price
increase is justified in view of the increase in the
world's petroleum price but the increase of petrol
price should be followed by a corresponding decrease
in the import duties of car.The govt cannot have both
i.e. increase in petrol price and retention of the
current high import duties on car.
Our import duties on car is already one of
the highest in the world and to increase the price of
petrol without a corresponding decrease in import
duties in car price would be a double whammy for
consumers.
There is no longer any justification for the
govt to continue petrol subsidy.Over a period of time
all petrol and diesel subsidy should be removed.The
daily long queues of foreign cars at petrol station at
Bukit Kayu Hitam, Rantau Panjang and further south at
Johore Bharu should be sufficient reason enough why
subsidy cannot continue.At a subsidy price of 50cts
per liter our nation is losing millions daily to
foreigners who capitalise on the price differential
between the neighbouring country.
Then there are the profiteers, the fishermen in
Kelantan and Kedah who filled their subsidised diesel
and sell them to Thai Trawlers in mid sea.This
practice will continue as long as there are easy money
to be made.
The decision to increase the price of petrol
has been made and the people have to live with it but
the govt can be compassionate by ameliorating the
effect by decreasing the price of import duties on car
has not being encouraging.For the first time in its
history of petrol price increase it has to review and
convince the general populace why it is essential to
impose such a drastic hike.The govt's petrol price
increase is justified in view of the increase in the
world's petroleum price but the increase of petrol
price should be followed by a corresponding decrease
in the import duties of car.The govt cannot have both
i.e. increase in petrol price and retention of the
current high import duties on car.
Our import duties on car is already one of
the highest in the world and to increase the price of
petrol without a corresponding decrease in import
duties in car price would be a double whammy for
consumers.
There is no longer any justification for the
govt to continue petrol subsidy.Over a period of time
all petrol and diesel subsidy should be removed.The
daily long queues of foreign cars at petrol station at
Bukit Kayu Hitam, Rantau Panjang and further south at
Johore Bharu should be sufficient reason enough why
subsidy cannot continue.At a subsidy price of 50cts
per liter our nation is losing millions daily to
foreigners who capitalise on the price differential
between the neighbouring country.
Then there are the profiteers, the fishermen in
Kelantan and Kedah who filled their subsidised diesel
and sell them to Thai Trawlers in mid sea.This
practice will continue as long as there are easy money
to be made.
The decision to increase the price of petrol
has been made and the people have to live with it but
the govt can be compassionate by ameliorating the
effect by decreasing the price of import duties on car
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Our Judiciary is inconsistent
Dear Editor,
Recently a rapist received a 20 year sentence
and a couple of strokes of rotan for his crime. A few
days later the murderers of Darren Kang pleaded guilty
and were sentence to 5 years each.
Next, eleven KLIA workers were caught stealing from
the baggages of airport passengers and they were fined
each between $1000 and $1500.The money and valuables
they stole amounted to $19500.
Then on march 4th at Shah Alam court, judge Azimah
Omar sentenced a Chinese national to a fine of $10,000
in default 12 months jail for selling VCD.
What message is the judiaciary trying to convey
to criminals? That the sentence for murder is lighter
than rape and that it is alright to steal but a more
serious offence to sell illegal VCD?
Frankly such ridiculous decisions have cast a
doubt on some of the ability of our judges to preside
and past judgement.Its absolutely shocking when you
compare the gravity of the offence that they can be so inconsistent.
Recently a rapist received a 20 year sentence
and a couple of strokes of rotan for his crime. A few
days later the murderers of Darren Kang pleaded guilty
and were sentence to 5 years each.
Next, eleven KLIA workers were caught stealing from
the baggages of airport passengers and they were fined
each between $1000 and $1500.The money and valuables
they stole amounted to $19500.
Then on march 4th at Shah Alam court, judge Azimah
Omar sentenced a Chinese national to a fine of $10,000
in default 12 months jail for selling VCD.
What message is the judiaciary trying to convey
to criminals? That the sentence for murder is lighter
than rape and that it is alright to steal but a more
serious offence to sell illegal VCD?
Frankly such ridiculous decisions have cast a
doubt on some of the ability of our judges to preside
and past judgement.Its absolutely shocking when you
compare the gravity of the offence that they can be so inconsistent.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
AllPetrol and Diesel Subsidy should be removed.
Malaysians should support the govt's decision
to increase petrol and diesel price by 30 cts per
litre.This decision in fact should have been gradually
implemented a long time ago so that by now all vestige
of subsidy should have been removed by now.Any
artificial pricing not supported by economic
principle cannot be sustained over a period of
time.Subsidies tend to manipulate the pricing system
and creates a situation for profiteering and black
marketeering.Such a situation normally will benefit a
section of the population such as fisherman and
certain transportation sectors.
If Thailand and Indonesia can move towards
abolition of subsidy there is no reason why Malaysia
cannot do so.The fundamental principle to adhere is to
let supply and demand determine the market price.Over
time all other prices will be determined by market
forces and will be accordingly priced.
However, the govt should proceed with caution
its intention to divert the subsidy saved to be
chanelled for developement and the transportation
sector.Malaysians will certainly not accept a
situation where the benefits of the majority from the
subsidy be diverted to a few political cronies who
will benefit from the contracts dished out for
political motives.If this was to happen then its like
taking the subsidy of the majority and putting it into
the pockets of the miniority.Hopefully, this will not
happen.
to increase petrol and diesel price by 30 cts per
litre.This decision in fact should have been gradually
implemented a long time ago so that by now all vestige
of subsidy should have been removed by now.Any
artificial pricing not supported by economic
principle cannot be sustained over a period of
time.Subsidies tend to manipulate the pricing system
and creates a situation for profiteering and black
marketeering.Such a situation normally will benefit a
section of the population such as fisherman and
certain transportation sectors.
If Thailand and Indonesia can move towards
abolition of subsidy there is no reason why Malaysia
cannot do so.The fundamental principle to adhere is to
let supply and demand determine the market price.Over
time all other prices will be determined by market
forces and will be accordingly priced.
However, the govt should proceed with caution
its intention to divert the subsidy saved to be
chanelled for developement and the transportation
sector.Malaysians will certainly not accept a
situation where the benefits of the majority from the
subsidy be diverted to a few political cronies who
will benefit from the contracts dished out for
political motives.If this was to happen then its like
taking the subsidy of the majority and putting it into
the pockets of the miniority.Hopefully, this will not
happen.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
Mistake To Suspend sarawak tribunal
Our cabinet ministers have made the wrong decision in suspending the licence of the Sarawak Tribunal.The cabinet in taking such a drastic step fail to consider the plight of the 300 workers of the paper.If each worker has 3 dependents this means about 900 people will be affected by the decision to suspend the paper.It is liken to using the hammer to kill an ant.The appropriate punishment would be for those responsible to resign and that should have been the end of the matter.To punish the whole group of people for the mistake of probably one person is too extreme.Can the cabinet ministers tell the children of those dependents whose father or mother had to stop work and cannot bring food to the table because of what the govt did?It is a shame really that the real victims are the innocent workers.Frankly , our ministers just dont seem capable of even making a simple decision without making the whole issue into a mountain from a mole hill.
Friday, January 20, 2006
Article 121(1a) Of the Constuition must be amended.
The P.M has degenerated to a pathetic figure, devoid of any direction and authority to bring our nation of diverse culture and religion to a harmonious conclusion.The non-muslims have a right to demand that the Federal constituition protect the religion of the miniority.The current dilemma facing the non muslim is that the present article 121(1a) does not provide sufficient safeguard to ensure that the rights of the non muslims are protected.The civil courts have abdicated their responsibilty to hear cases involving non muslims when islamic religious issues are involved.The civil courts as it is have surrendered their judicial supremacy in direct contravention of the Federal constituition and have accepted the supremacy of the Syariah law.This act alone has left the non muslims position vulnerable and devoid of any protection from the civil courts.Unless article 121(1a) is amended to address this lacuna there will always be another case similar to Moorthy .Can Malaysia afford to have its people facing this uncertainties over and over again without its attendant consequences?
Thursday, January 19, 2006
DBKL Action Is Unreasonable
Enough is enough. DBKL must come out with a
clear irrevocable policy of releasing bumiputra houses
for sale to the non-bumis once conditions have been
complied.Developers around the Klang Valley of late
have been mystified by the frequent changes in the
conditions that DBKL have implemented.The previous
condition was that developers have to advertise in the
major newspapers for sale of housing units to
bumiputra at a discount.After a gestation period of 3
months if the units allocated to bumis are not sold
then they are released to the general public.Now they
have changed their conditions and have insisted that
developers have to do road shows at shopping centres
such as at the Mid-Valley to attract bumi buyers.After
having complied with the 2nd condition, DBKL has now
once again insisted that another road show be carried
out to get bumi buyers when it was quite evident from
the previous road show that bumis were simply not
interested in housing estate with a big majority of
non malays.
DBKL doesnt seem to realise that road shows
and advertisement in the news media cost alot of money
and by imposing these unreasonable demands they are
causing indirectly to the abandonment of housing
projects which would otherwise have been completed.
If DBKL is so adamant in helping the bumis to
buy these houses then it should ask its state agency
to buy up all the bumis unit and sell them to bumis at
a later date.That way at least developers are not
burdened with the holding cost when DBKL keep on
introducing unreasonable conditions.
The Housing Ministry is partly to blame for the
current policy of imposing the 30% sale of houses to
bumis.This is an old policy forged in the 80s with the
vested purpose of helping bumis to increase house
ownership.At no time was it the intended purpose of
the policy to help rich bumis to purchase property at
a discount.Now in the Klang Valley house costing
$300,000 and above are given discount.These are houses
that are only affordable to the rich bumis and if they
can afford to buy such high end houses then there is
no rationale for non bumis to subsidise their
purchase.It is high time the Housing Ministry correct
this unfairness and perhaps introduce a more equitable
policy like stipulating that houses costing $100,000
and below should be sold at a discount to bumis.That
way those bumis that are deserving will only benefit
and not the rich bumis.
clear irrevocable policy of releasing bumiputra houses
for sale to the non-bumis once conditions have been
complied.Developers around the Klang Valley of late
have been mystified by the frequent changes in the
conditions that DBKL have implemented.The previous
condition was that developers have to advertise in the
major newspapers for sale of housing units to
bumiputra at a discount.After a gestation period of 3
months if the units allocated to bumis are not sold
then they are released to the general public.Now they
have changed their conditions and have insisted that
developers have to do road shows at shopping centres
such as at the Mid-Valley to attract bumi buyers.After
having complied with the 2nd condition, DBKL has now
once again insisted that another road show be carried
out to get bumi buyers when it was quite evident from
the previous road show that bumis were simply not
interested in housing estate with a big majority of
non malays.
DBKL doesnt seem to realise that road shows
and advertisement in the news media cost alot of money
and by imposing these unreasonable demands they are
causing indirectly to the abandonment of housing
projects which would otherwise have been completed.
If DBKL is so adamant in helping the bumis to
buy these houses then it should ask its state agency
to buy up all the bumis unit and sell them to bumis at
a later date.That way at least developers are not
burdened with the holding cost when DBKL keep on
introducing unreasonable conditions.
The Housing Ministry is partly to blame for the
current policy of imposing the 30% sale of houses to
bumis.This is an old policy forged in the 80s with the
vested purpose of helping bumis to increase house
ownership.At no time was it the intended purpose of
the policy to help rich bumis to purchase property at
a discount.Now in the Klang Valley house costing
$300,000 and above are given discount.These are houses
that are only affordable to the rich bumis and if they
can afford to buy such high end houses then there is
no rationale for non bumis to subsidise their
purchase.It is high time the Housing Ministry correct
this unfairness and perhaps introduce a more equitable
policy like stipulating that houses costing $100,000
and below should be sold at a discount to bumis.That
way those bumis that are deserving will only benefit
and not the rich bumis.
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
DBKL is not functioning
The Commonwealth Games is over for almost
10 years now.The apartments that housed the atheletes
were immediately sold after the games and those
unfortunate souls who had the misfortune to purchase
the apartments are now faced with a dilemma.Ten years
down the road the purchasers of those units have still
not received their strata titles despite certificate
of occupation been issued and all purchasers have
moved into their apartments.
The purchasers would like to pose the question
to DBKL.Why are strata titles not been issued after 10
years?The buildings were completed ten years ago and
certificate of fitness was issued for occupation.One
suspect that the developer has not given a bribe to
DBKL officers and that explain the lack of urgency in
issuing the strata titles.DBKL owes the purchasers an
explanation for such an inordinate delay and their
explanation should dispel any doubts over their
motives for not issuing the titles.
10 years now.The apartments that housed the atheletes
were immediately sold after the games and those
unfortunate souls who had the misfortune to purchase
the apartments are now faced with a dilemma.Ten years
down the road the purchasers of those units have still
not received their strata titles despite certificate
of occupation been issued and all purchasers have
moved into their apartments.
The purchasers would like to pose the question
to DBKL.Why are strata titles not been issued after 10
years?The buildings were completed ten years ago and
certificate of fitness was issued for occupation.One
suspect that the developer has not given a bribe to
DBKL officers and that explain the lack of urgency in
issuing the strata titles.DBKL owes the purchasers an
explanation for such an inordinate delay and their
explanation should dispel any doubts over their
motives for not issuing the titles.
Monday, November 21, 2005
Tudung And Bak Ku Teh
It really irks me when muslim converts adopts
a more holier than thou attitude than those born
muslims.We would expect muslim converts to have a
better view from both side of the divide to make a
more unprejudiced statement.Farah Abdullah @ SL Pang
presented her views purportedly on behalf of the
Muslim Professional forum.To say that non-muslims must
adhere to a dress code that reflects the teachings of
Islam is to cast aspersion on the dress code of
non-muslims.If the purpose of the dress code is to
encourage female students to dress modestly than there
should be no controversy.But to force non-muslim
students to don a tudung which is a religious attire
for female muslims is without doubt insensitive.
To make the point more obvious, let us say
UTAR, an instituition with a 90% chinese students
decide to make it compulsory that all students
irrespective of religion, race should have a
compulsory breakfast of bak ku teh every morning
before lecture commenced.Therefore if we were to
follow Pang's argument then all students 'must expect
and comply with rules that they may not be comfortable
with.'After all it is a chinese academic
instituition.Conversely this can also be argued that
this has nothing to do with fundamental human rights.
S.L pang has made her choice to be a muslim
convert. She should learn to respect the rights of
others who may feel uncomfortable donning a tudung.If
she is adamant that IIU should have the right to
impose a dress code for its students then I would like
to invite her for breakfast of bak ku teh at the
UTAR's Canteen.
a more holier than thou attitude than those born
muslims.We would expect muslim converts to have a
better view from both side of the divide to make a
more unprejudiced statement.Farah Abdullah @ SL Pang
presented her views purportedly on behalf of the
Muslim Professional forum.To say that non-muslims must
adhere to a dress code that reflects the teachings of
Islam is to cast aspersion on the dress code of
non-muslims.If the purpose of the dress code is to
encourage female students to dress modestly than there
should be no controversy.But to force non-muslim
students to don a tudung which is a religious attire
for female muslims is without doubt insensitive.
To make the point more obvious, let us say
UTAR, an instituition with a 90% chinese students
decide to make it compulsory that all students
irrespective of religion, race should have a
compulsory breakfast of bak ku teh every morning
before lecture commenced.Therefore if we were to
follow Pang's argument then all students 'must expect
and comply with rules that they may not be comfortable
with.'After all it is a chinese academic
instituition.Conversely this can also be argued that
this has nothing to do with fundamental human rights.
S.L pang has made her choice to be a muslim
convert. She should learn to respect the rights of
others who may feel uncomfortable donning a tudung.If
she is adamant that IIU should have the right to
impose a dress code for its students then I would like
to invite her for breakfast of bak ku teh at the
UTAR's Canteen.
Saturday, October 29, 2005
Proton Cars In Malaysia Not fitted with air bags.
Our govt,principally our former Prime
Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir, must bear full
responsibilty for the many deaths caused and
contributed by the inferior Proton cars that are
virtually forced upon unsuspecting malaysian
buyers.Because of the National Automative Policy which
made the price of foreign made cars almost prohibitive
for the average malaysian buyers, the average
Malaysians are left with no choice but to buy the
cheaper version of the local produced Proton cars
which are devoid of safety features such as air bags
and ABS brakes.
It is an established fact that cars fitted with
air bags have statistically saved lives in the event
of accident and yet Proton assemblers for reason of
cost had deliberately not fitted such safety device in
Proton assembled cars in Malaysia.And yet one
significant irony remains .Malaysian cars exported to
U.K were all fitted with air bags.By this act our govt
have deemed fit to derogate the lives of Malaysian as
insignificant and valueless compared to foreign user
of Proton cars.
The grave yards in Malaysia are littered with
the lives of Malaysians whose lives could have been
saved had our govt abandoned its protectionist policy
and allowed Malaysians the opportunity to buy foreign
cars that are fitted with the latest safety devices.
As long as this policy continue the lives of
those lost driving Proton cars shall continue to be on
the conscience of our govt.
Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir, must bear full
responsibilty for the many deaths caused and
contributed by the inferior Proton cars that are
virtually forced upon unsuspecting malaysian
buyers.Because of the National Automative Policy which
made the price of foreign made cars almost prohibitive
for the average malaysian buyers, the average
Malaysians are left with no choice but to buy the
cheaper version of the local produced Proton cars
which are devoid of safety features such as air bags
and ABS brakes.
It is an established fact that cars fitted with
air bags have statistically saved lives in the event
of accident and yet Proton assemblers for reason of
cost had deliberately not fitted such safety device in
Proton assembled cars in Malaysia.And yet one
significant irony remains .Malaysian cars exported to
U.K were all fitted with air bags.By this act our govt
have deemed fit to derogate the lives of Malaysian as
insignificant and valueless compared to foreign user
of Proton cars.
The grave yards in Malaysia are littered with
the lives of Malaysians whose lives could have been
saved had our govt abandoned its protectionist policy
and allowed Malaysians the opportunity to buy foreign
cars that are fitted with the latest safety devices.
As long as this policy continue the lives of
those lost driving Proton cars shall continue to be on
the conscience of our govt.
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
ACA must do Its Job without fear or Favour.
The ACA appears to be super efficient in
investigating the alleged misappropriation of the
$150,000 from the St John's school's fund but seems to
be dragging its feet in the DBKL tender of the Masjid
India hawkers lot.Why is it so difficult to ascertain
whether proper procedures were adopted in the tender
exercise for the hawkers lot.?And if it was done in a
transparent manner how could they explain why majority
of the lots ended in VIP hands. Maybe DBKL can
explain how several of these lots could possibly fall
into the IGP sons hands if the tender exercise were
transparent.
The speed with which ACA investigated the St
John misappropriation case and the reluctance it
proceeded with the Masjid India case confirms public
suspicion that ACA are slow to act where the felony
involves politicians.In the former case where only
school teachers are involve it is presumably safe to
investigate without fear or favour because of the
absence of any political backlash.In the case of the
DBKL, the ACA have to tip toe their way around the
political bigwits, fearing it might step on some
political bigshots.Hence very likely nothing will come
out of the DBKL investigation as a cover-up is most
likely.
investigating the alleged misappropriation of the
$150,000 from the St John's school's fund but seems to
be dragging its feet in the DBKL tender of the Masjid
India hawkers lot.Why is it so difficult to ascertain
whether proper procedures were adopted in the tender
exercise for the hawkers lot.?And if it was done in a
transparent manner how could they explain why majority
of the lots ended in VIP hands. Maybe DBKL can
explain how several of these lots could possibly fall
into the IGP sons hands if the tender exercise were
transparent.
The speed with which ACA investigated the St
John misappropriation case and the reluctance it
proceeded with the Masjid India case confirms public
suspicion that ACA are slow to act where the felony
involves politicians.In the former case where only
school teachers are involve it is presumably safe to
investigate without fear or favour because of the
absence of any political backlash.In the case of the
DBKL, the ACA have to tip toe their way around the
political bigwits, fearing it might step on some
political bigshots.Hence very likely nothing will come
out of the DBKL investigation as a cover-up is most
likely.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Indians Can Change Their Destiny.
I fail to agree with Samy Vellu's assertion
that the 3% equity for the Indians had been on the
national agenda for a long time and that nothing had
been planned and implemented for the community.The
failure to reach that equity level lies not with the
govt but with the MIC leader which Samy leads.
The dilemma facing the marginalised indian
community will continue as long as they are led by the
current MIC leaders.For 25 years the indian community
have been led by these leaders and in many ways the
trust bestowed to them have been repeatedly betrayed.
The pitiful and marginalised position the
Indian community are enduring would not have occurred
had their leaders placed community above self, service
and sacrifice above greed.
Partly to blame for this current dilemma are
the Indian community generally and the MIC members
specifically.Like the proverbial sheep been led to the
slaughter house, they had faithfully placed their
trust to these same leaders who had deemed fit to
plunder the wealth meant for the poor and destitute in
the Indian community.
During Dr. Mahathir's reign, a man not known
for his generosity, a few million Tenaga Nasional Bhd
newly Public listed shares were allocated to Maika,
the investment arm of MIC.The shares ostensibly for
Maika would indirectly benefit the many rural Indians
in estates and other low category jobs if equity in
the form of unit trust shares were taken up by the
community.MIC members went on a frantic campaign to
encourage the poor Indians from the rural areas to
Invest in Maika for a slice of the economic cake.It
was like manna from heaven and the poor uneducated
Indians got the bait together with the hook line and
sinker.They ploughed their hard earned savings meant
for their children's education in Maika shares with a
promise of a return many fold their original
investment.The TNB shares never reached
Maika.Somewhere along the way to Maika the TNB shares
were hijacked to another entity.
Subsequently ,Maika shares went into a tail-
spin and wiped off millions from its value.The
hard-earned savings of thousand of poor Indian
investors were left clinging to the valueless Maika
shares.The extent and untold hardship and misery this
episode had on the Indian community can never be
measured in monetary terms.In many poor Indian
households, the dreams and aspirations of young
ambitious children were destroyed forever.Today, we
see jobless, uneducated Indians whose only option is
to turn to a life of crime in order to survive.The
govt. has not opened its door in the civil service for
them and the private sector will continue to remain
elusive for the unqualified.
The plight and fate of the Indian community
will continue to remain bleak and diminish if it
places its faith in the same MIC leaders which had
hoodwinked them for the last 20 years.They have no one
else to blame but themselves if they persists in
choosing the same faces in the MIC leadership which
have brought them nothing but despair and
despondency.Through the present MIC leadership, the
Indians are now a marginalised community. Only the
Indian community can make a change for the better,
failing which they will have to endure another 20
years of destitution.
that the 3% equity for the Indians had been on the
national agenda for a long time and that nothing had
been planned and implemented for the community.The
failure to reach that equity level lies not with the
govt but with the MIC leader which Samy leads.
The dilemma facing the marginalised indian
community will continue as long as they are led by the
current MIC leaders.For 25 years the indian community
have been led by these leaders and in many ways the
trust bestowed to them have been repeatedly betrayed.
The pitiful and marginalised position the
Indian community are enduring would not have occurred
had their leaders placed community above self, service
and sacrifice above greed.
Partly to blame for this current dilemma are
the Indian community generally and the MIC members
specifically.Like the proverbial sheep been led to the
slaughter house, they had faithfully placed their
trust to these same leaders who had deemed fit to
plunder the wealth meant for the poor and destitute in
the Indian community.
During Dr. Mahathir's reign, a man not known
for his generosity, a few million Tenaga Nasional Bhd
newly Public listed shares were allocated to Maika,
the investment arm of MIC.The shares ostensibly for
Maika would indirectly benefit the many rural Indians
in estates and other low category jobs if equity in
the form of unit trust shares were taken up by the
community.MIC members went on a frantic campaign to
encourage the poor Indians from the rural areas to
Invest in Maika for a slice of the economic cake.It
was like manna from heaven and the poor uneducated
Indians got the bait together with the hook line and
sinker.They ploughed their hard earned savings meant
for their children's education in Maika shares with a
promise of a return many fold their original
investment.The TNB shares never reached
Maika.Somewhere along the way to Maika the TNB shares
were hijacked to another entity.
Subsequently ,Maika shares went into a tail-
spin and wiped off millions from its value.The
hard-earned savings of thousand of poor Indian
investors were left clinging to the valueless Maika
shares.The extent and untold hardship and misery this
episode had on the Indian community can never be
measured in monetary terms.In many poor Indian
households, the dreams and aspirations of young
ambitious children were destroyed forever.Today, we
see jobless, uneducated Indians whose only option is
to turn to a life of crime in order to survive.The
govt. has not opened its door in the civil service for
them and the private sector will continue to remain
elusive for the unqualified.
The plight and fate of the Indian community
will continue to remain bleak and diminish if it
places its faith in the same MIC leaders which had
hoodwinked them for the last 20 years.They have no one
else to blame but themselves if they persists in
choosing the same faces in the MIC leadership which
have brought them nothing but despair and
despondency.Through the present MIC leadership, the
Indians are now a marginalised community. Only the
Indian community can make a change for the better,
failing which they will have to endure another 20
years of destitution.
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Build-Then-sell not viable Option
Housing Developers were caught by surprise
recently when the Housing and Local government
Ministry through its Minister , Datuk Ong Ka Ting,
announced that it was finalising a proposal for the
build-and-sell (BTS) concept to be adopted by the
Housing Ministry.Such a concept if adopted would have
serious repercussions on the building industry.The
nonchalant manner in which the proposal was to be
hastily tabled for a cabinet decision does not augur
well for the housing industry.
I cannot recall any discussion or debate being
held by the Housing Ministry with the Housing
Developers on the build-and -sell concept.The speed
and haste for the implementation (if indeed it is
implemented) of such a concept will certaintly spell
the end for medium and lower housing developers
From the onset I would categorically say that
the build-and-sell concept based on the Australian
model of 10/90 would be a failure if not a disaster if
introduced in the Malaysian building industry.The
10/90 system based on the Australian model is
regulated under S9AA of the Sale of Land Act 1962 of
the State of Victoria.Such a model from its appearance
would favour the house buyers but not necesssary
providing any advantage in terms of the cost of the
house.From the perspective of the Developer this model
would only further compound its problem
nothwithstanding the fact that it still have to comply
with existing housing laws and state governments
policies on Bumiputra ownership, mandatory laws on low
cost housing and infrastuctural requirements enforced
by local councils.In short, such a concept would not
be a workable model in the context of the Malaysian
environment where procedural and government policies
differ extensively with the Australian model.
The 10/90 variant model as practice in Australia
is successful because of the absence of bureacracy and
the efficient mechanism in place for submission and
approval for building plans.The normal time required
for such approval is about 3-6 months in Australia as
compared to 2-3 years over here in malaysia.In
addition, conditions such as mandatory 30% low cost
and bumiputra allocation housing all play a
significant part in adding cost to the total
expenditure of the developer.It must be noted that all
these extraneous conditions are absent in the
Australian model and this ensure a smooth
implementation of the 10/90 model.
Let us examine the 10/90 concept in more
detail in order to expose the frailities of such a
model.Under the 10/90 model, purchasers pay a
downpayment of 10% of the contract price upon signing
of the sale and purchase agreement and the deposit is
placed in an escrow trust account(lawyers as
stakeholder).The remaining 90% of the purchase price
becomes payable only on delivery of vacant possession
of the completed house.Obviously the house buyer has
zero risk and the bulk if not the total risk factor
is borne by the developer.From the very beginning the
developer would have to use its own or borrowed funds
to finance the project.They do not even have the
luxury of using the buyer's 10% deposit since it is
escrowed in an account until the handover of the
houses.From the time of submission of the property for
approval until the completion of the houses, the
gestation period is almost 5 years.(assuming building
take 2 years).Is it practical and fair for the
developer to bear the risk for 5 years before seeing a
return on its initial investment?And what would happen
if during the interim period there is a downturn in
the property market and the buyer decides to cancel
its obligation to buy the house?The buyer may choose
to forfeit its 10% deposit but the developer would now
be left without the 90%purchase price.It is little
comfort that the legal remedy for specific performance
is available but how many developer can afford the
lengthy litigation to recover the money.?
In short the likely scenario would be abandon
projects and bankrupt housing developers who are left
in the lurch by house buyers in the event of a
property crash.
The Housing Ministry must first ask itself
the question whether it can dismantle the onerous
government and state policies of low cost housing and
mandatory bumiputra allocation. Whether it can promote
an efficient mechanism to reduce bureacracy in the
submission and approval of building plans.If the
answer is no, then the 10/90 model is not a workable
option for our building industry.If there is an
attempt to introduce the Australian 10/90 model it is
imperative that all other conditions must be in place
before we seek to introduce the model in toto.
recently when the Housing and Local government
Ministry through its Minister , Datuk Ong Ka Ting,
announced that it was finalising a proposal for the
build-and-sell (BTS) concept to be adopted by the
Housing Ministry.Such a concept if adopted would have
serious repercussions on the building industry.The
nonchalant manner in which the proposal was to be
hastily tabled for a cabinet decision does not augur
well for the housing industry.
I cannot recall any discussion or debate being
held by the Housing Ministry with the Housing
Developers on the build-and -sell concept.The speed
and haste for the implementation (if indeed it is
implemented) of such a concept will certaintly spell
the end for medium and lower housing developers
From the onset I would categorically say that
the build-and-sell concept based on the Australian
model of 10/90 would be a failure if not a disaster if
introduced in the Malaysian building industry.The
10/90 system based on the Australian model is
regulated under S9AA of the Sale of Land Act 1962 of
the State of Victoria.Such a model from its appearance
would favour the house buyers but not necesssary
providing any advantage in terms of the cost of the
house.From the perspective of the Developer this model
would only further compound its problem
nothwithstanding the fact that it still have to comply
with existing housing laws and state governments
policies on Bumiputra ownership, mandatory laws on low
cost housing and infrastuctural requirements enforced
by local councils.In short, such a concept would not
be a workable model in the context of the Malaysian
environment where procedural and government policies
differ extensively with the Australian model.
The 10/90 variant model as practice in Australia
is successful because of the absence of bureacracy and
the efficient mechanism in place for submission and
approval for building plans.The normal time required
for such approval is about 3-6 months in Australia as
compared to 2-3 years over here in malaysia.In
addition, conditions such as mandatory 30% low cost
and bumiputra allocation housing all play a
significant part in adding cost to the total
expenditure of the developer.It must be noted that all
these extraneous conditions are absent in the
Australian model and this ensure a smooth
implementation of the 10/90 model.
Let us examine the 10/90 concept in more
detail in order to expose the frailities of such a
model.Under the 10/90 model, purchasers pay a
downpayment of 10% of the contract price upon signing
of the sale and purchase agreement and the deposit is
placed in an escrow trust account(lawyers as
stakeholder).The remaining 90% of the purchase price
becomes payable only on delivery of vacant possession
of the completed house.Obviously the house buyer has
zero risk and the bulk if not the total risk factor
is borne by the developer.From the very beginning the
developer would have to use its own or borrowed funds
to finance the project.They do not even have the
luxury of using the buyer's 10% deposit since it is
escrowed in an account until the handover of the
houses.From the time of submission of the property for
approval until the completion of the houses, the
gestation period is almost 5 years.(assuming building
take 2 years).Is it practical and fair for the
developer to bear the risk for 5 years before seeing a
return on its initial investment?And what would happen
if during the interim period there is a downturn in
the property market and the buyer decides to cancel
its obligation to buy the house?The buyer may choose
to forfeit its 10% deposit but the developer would now
be left without the 90%purchase price.It is little
comfort that the legal remedy for specific performance
is available but how many developer can afford the
lengthy litigation to recover the money.?
In short the likely scenario would be abandon
projects and bankrupt housing developers who are left
in the lurch by house buyers in the event of a
property crash.
The Housing Ministry must first ask itself
the question whether it can dismantle the onerous
government and state policies of low cost housing and
mandatory bumiputra allocation. Whether it can promote
an efficient mechanism to reduce bureacracy in the
submission and approval of building plans.If the
answer is no, then the 10/90 model is not a workable
option for our building industry.If there is an
attempt to introduce the Australian 10/90 model it is
imperative that all other conditions must be in place
before we seek to introduce the model in toto.
Friday, September 23, 2005
Anwar Lost his opportunity to lead.
I totally disagree with Ah Chong's article
that 'Anwar very much a leader after six years'.With
due respect to Anwar, he had his chance to show his
qualities of leadership to lead our multi-racial
country into the next millenium, but he failed
miserably.
Let us not forget that when he was Education
Minister, his race based and communal policies did not
endear him to the chinese community. Mara
matriculation schools did not even allocate the 10%
places for non-malays when it was first promised but
later through Dr.Mahathir's direction that the 10%was
grudgingly given.
Even when he was Deputy Prime Minister, he was
not a popular figure amongst the other communities
because of his frequent malay agenda.During his brief
tenure as Deputy P.M he did not display any qualities
of justice and fairness to the other races. Now that
he is no longer in the corridors of power why should
we believe that he would change.
There is a tendency for politicians to try and
garner support merely for political mileage and
expediency so that it will appeal to a wider
audience.But given the earlier opportunities, he had
failed to introduce any of those measures which he now
deemed superflous.Sad to say, he had his chances and
he blew it. I dont't think our future and destiny lies
with his leadership.The sea of faces in our political
spectrum also do not presently offer us with many
choices.The charismatic and strong leadership that we
yearn for is sadly lacking.There is no light at the
end of the tunnel.We just have to trudge into this
millenium aimlessly without any direction.
that 'Anwar very much a leader after six years'.With
due respect to Anwar, he had his chance to show his
qualities of leadership to lead our multi-racial
country into the next millenium, but he failed
miserably.
Let us not forget that when he was Education
Minister, his race based and communal policies did not
endear him to the chinese community. Mara
matriculation schools did not even allocate the 10%
places for non-malays when it was first promised but
later through Dr.Mahathir's direction that the 10%was
grudgingly given.
Even when he was Deputy Prime Minister, he was
not a popular figure amongst the other communities
because of his frequent malay agenda.During his brief
tenure as Deputy P.M he did not display any qualities
of justice and fairness to the other races. Now that
he is no longer in the corridors of power why should
we believe that he would change.
There is a tendency for politicians to try and
garner support merely for political mileage and
expediency so that it will appeal to a wider
audience.But given the earlier opportunities, he had
failed to introduce any of those measures which he now
deemed superflous.Sad to say, he had his chances and
he blew it. I dont't think our future and destiny lies
with his leadership.The sea of faces in our political
spectrum also do not presently offer us with many
choices.The charismatic and strong leadership that we
yearn for is sadly lacking.There is no light at the
end of the tunnel.We just have to trudge into this
millenium aimlessly without any direction.
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Bumiputra Discount On Houses should Be abolished.
When policies formulated and implemented
many years ago becomes no longer relevant in today's
society, the govt should take steps to abolish or
adjust it to suit the current circumstances.When the
policy of mandatory requirement that developers should
give a 5% to 10% discount for bumiputra house buyers
was introduced it was intended to increase house
ownership of bumiputras.This was especially directed
at ownership of houses in the lower and medium
bracket.
However, today we see the policy extended to
cover and include high end, sophisticated
condominiums, apartments and bungalows.If bumiputras
can afford to buy such expensive properties what then
is the rationale for giving them a discount when
inevitably the cost would be borne by non-bumi buyers.
Instead, the govt should put a ceiling of
house prices which would qualify for a discount.For
example, all houses below $100,000 should be given a
5% or 10% discount for bumiputras.This way the benefit
of lower priced houses would be given to those who are
in need of help and not those who are rich and not
deserving.
On many occassion local authorities have been
guilty of delaying the release of bumiputra unsold
units when it was quite apparent that bumiputras were
not interested in the property.This has undoubtedly
caused alot of hardships to developers and has
contributed to alot of abandon projects.This is
especially true with DBKL where developers after
having satisfied the condition of advertising in the
papers for sale of Bumi units were further told to
hold road show at Mid-valley .The whole exercise was
really a futile one because most of the properties
were located in predominantly chinese areas and no
amount of publicity could persuade bumiputras to buy
the unsold units.
If the govt is so insistent on selling those
units to bumiputras then perhaps the option is to set
up an agency to purchase all units allocated to bumis
and gradually sell at a price they feel would be fair.
That way housing developers would not be caught with
the holding cost which undoubtedly would be pass on to
the consumers.
many years ago becomes no longer relevant in today's
society, the govt should take steps to abolish or
adjust it to suit the current circumstances.When the
policy of mandatory requirement that developers should
give a 5% to 10% discount for bumiputra house buyers
was introduced it was intended to increase house
ownership of bumiputras.This was especially directed
at ownership of houses in the lower and medium
bracket.
However, today we see the policy extended to
cover and include high end, sophisticated
condominiums, apartments and bungalows.If bumiputras
can afford to buy such expensive properties what then
is the rationale for giving them a discount when
inevitably the cost would be borne by non-bumi buyers.
Instead, the govt should put a ceiling of
house prices which would qualify for a discount.For
example, all houses below $100,000 should be given a
5% or 10% discount for bumiputras.This way the benefit
of lower priced houses would be given to those who are
in need of help and not those who are rich and not
deserving.
On many occassion local authorities have been
guilty of delaying the release of bumiputra unsold
units when it was quite apparent that bumiputras were
not interested in the property.This has undoubtedly
caused alot of hardships to developers and has
contributed to alot of abandon projects.This is
especially true with DBKL where developers after
having satisfied the condition of advertising in the
papers for sale of Bumi units were further told to
hold road show at Mid-valley .The whole exercise was
really a futile one because most of the properties
were located in predominantly chinese areas and no
amount of publicity could persuade bumiputras to buy
the unsold units.
If the govt is so insistent on selling those
units to bumiputras then perhaps the option is to set
up an agency to purchase all units allocated to bumis
and gradually sell at a price they feel would be fair.
That way housing developers would not be caught with
the holding cost which undoubtedly would be pass on to
the consumers.
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Gerakan Election Is Rigged.
The Gerakan presidential election tomorrow
is a foregone conclusion.Dr. Lim keng Yaik will win
and will win handsomely.He will win not because he
deserves it or he commands the support of the Gerakan
members but because the election is rigged.I know it
for a fact because only recently I found out I was a
Gerakan member for the last 10 years in Kelantan.
Some 10 years ago I was invited to
participate in a Gerakan organised Golf tournament and
in order to qualify to play I was told that every
player had to sign a Gerakan membership form.I was
under the impression that the membership was
specifically for that occassion.Ten years down the
road I discovered recently that I was still a member
despite the fact that I had not attended any of its
meeting and had not paid for my annual membership
fees.
Somewhere, someone in Kelantan has been paying for my
annual subscription fees and have been using my name
to cast all Gerakan held election.I was not the only
person who was roped in to be Gerakan member. At least
more than a 100 of unsuspecting golfers were enlisted
to be Gerakan members and to this day I believe their
names like mine still remain in the Gerakan electoral
roll.
My name and 100's of phantom Gerakan members
would be used for tomorrow's election to decide the
fate of the presidential candidate.Kerk Choo Ting does
not stand a chance to win tomorrow's election and I am
quite certain his staunch supporter, Dr Tan Kee Kwong will also meet the same fate.
is a foregone conclusion.Dr. Lim keng Yaik will win
and will win handsomely.He will win not because he
deserves it or he commands the support of the Gerakan
members but because the election is rigged.I know it
for a fact because only recently I found out I was a
Gerakan member for the last 10 years in Kelantan.
Some 10 years ago I was invited to
participate in a Gerakan organised Golf tournament and
in order to qualify to play I was told that every
player had to sign a Gerakan membership form.I was
under the impression that the membership was
specifically for that occassion.Ten years down the
road I discovered recently that I was still a member
despite the fact that I had not attended any of its
meeting and had not paid for my annual membership
fees.
Somewhere, someone in Kelantan has been paying for my
annual subscription fees and have been using my name
to cast all Gerakan held election.I was not the only
person who was roped in to be Gerakan member. At least
more than a 100 of unsuspecting golfers were enlisted
to be Gerakan members and to this day I believe their
names like mine still remain in the Gerakan electoral
roll.
My name and 100's of phantom Gerakan members
would be used for tomorrow's election to decide the
fate of the presidential candidate.Kerk Choo Ting does
not stand a chance to win tomorrow's election and I am
quite certain his staunch supporter, Dr Tan Kee Kwong will also meet the same fate.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
M.D should shoulder MAS loss
What justification can the C.E.O of MAS
have when the national carrier for which he was the
head suffer such excruciating 1st quarter loss of $280
million?To blame the loss on high fuel cost is at best
a feeble excuse when other airlines merely suffer a
dip in profits.In contrast, S.I.A (Singapore Airlines)
merely posted a 7.9% decline in profit for the 1st
quarter while Cathay Pacific Airways reported a drop
in profit of 5.7% for the six months.(nst 23rd August,
2005).What is even more interesting and glaring of
mismanagement at MAS is the performance of budget
airline AirAsia Bhd which is a fifth the size of MAS
but is slated to post a quarterly net profit of $30
million.
When I perused the resume of the outgoing M.D I
was shocked to discover that he is an Anthropology
graduate of U.M.Now what business has an anthropology
graduate has managing a multi-million enterprise
company like MAS?It doesn't matter that he was exposed
for some time in the aircraft industry. The bottom
line is he is just not qualified acadametically for
such a post.
Next we learn that the front runner to be the
next C.E.O is a young Cambridge graduate who is the
present Chief Executive of MAS' parent company,
Penerbangan Malaysia Bhd.I am impress with his
academic qualification but what experience has a young
man of 34 has of running a multi- million company like
MAS?Frankly, those people enthrusted to appoint a
suitable person to manage the national carrier has
fail miserably.Time and time again their decision has
not been based on pure ability and qualification but
more on political connection and cronyism.This
practice is prevalent in all govt Linked companies
and as a result most of them have underperformed and
consequently suffer unprecedented losses.
Its time those who are enthrusted with the
responsibilty to appoint personnel in govt-linked
companies are held accountable for their
selections.They should not be allowed to squander tax
payer's money by making appointments to suit their
preference rather than appointments to suit the
company.
have when the national carrier for which he was the
head suffer such excruciating 1st quarter loss of $280
million?To blame the loss on high fuel cost is at best
a feeble excuse when other airlines merely suffer a
dip in profits.In contrast, S.I.A (Singapore Airlines)
merely posted a 7.9% decline in profit for the 1st
quarter while Cathay Pacific Airways reported a drop
in profit of 5.7% for the six months.(nst 23rd August,
2005).What is even more interesting and glaring of
mismanagement at MAS is the performance of budget
airline AirAsia Bhd which is a fifth the size of MAS
but is slated to post a quarterly net profit of $30
million.
When I perused the resume of the outgoing M.D I
was shocked to discover that he is an Anthropology
graduate of U.M.Now what business has an anthropology
graduate has managing a multi-million enterprise
company like MAS?It doesn't matter that he was exposed
for some time in the aircraft industry. The bottom
line is he is just not qualified acadametically for
such a post.
Next we learn that the front runner to be the
next C.E.O is a young Cambridge graduate who is the
present Chief Executive of MAS' parent company,
Penerbangan Malaysia Bhd.I am impress with his
academic qualification but what experience has a young
man of 34 has of running a multi- million company like
MAS?Frankly, those people enthrusted to appoint a
suitable person to manage the national carrier has
fail miserably.Time and time again their decision has
not been based on pure ability and qualification but
more on political connection and cronyism.This
practice is prevalent in all govt Linked companies
and as a result most of them have underperformed and
consequently suffer unprecedented losses.
Its time those who are enthrusted with the
responsibilty to appoint personnel in govt-linked
companies are held accountable for their
selections.They should not be allowed to squander tax
payer's money by making appointments to suit their
preference rather than appointments to suit the
company.
Friday, August 19, 2005
Why Should we honour Abdul Taib Mahmud and Rafidah Aziz.
First we celeberate mediocrity, then we
reject meritocracy, now we honour corrupt
politicians.Our country is really in a mess.A few
weeks ago, the Chief Minister of Sarawak was given an
honorific Datoship from Penang and on the 10th August,
Rafidah Aziz was honoured by the Chief Minister from
Sarawak despite her current predicament in the current
controversial A.P issue.
What begs to be answered is that is our
country so short of deserving candidates who have made
meaningful contribution to society that we have to
keep on honouring the same corrupt politicians?Now
what has the chief minister of Sarawak done for Penang
and what has Rafidah done for Sarawak short of giving
some A.Ps to some of her favourite people?
Frankly, until we review our criteria for
bestowing honorific titles to deserving people the
present method is making a mockery of the whole
system.
reject meritocracy, now we honour corrupt
politicians.Our country is really in a mess.A few
weeks ago, the Chief Minister of Sarawak was given an
honorific Datoship from Penang and on the 10th August,
Rafidah Aziz was honoured by the Chief Minister from
Sarawak despite her current predicament in the current
controversial A.P issue.
What begs to be answered is that is our
country so short of deserving candidates who have made
meaningful contribution to society that we have to
keep on honouring the same corrupt politicians?Now
what has the chief minister of Sarawak done for Penang
and what has Rafidah done for Sarawak short of giving
some A.Ps to some of her favourite people?
Frankly, until we review our criteria for
bestowing honorific titles to deserving people the
present method is making a mockery of the whole
system.
Saturday, July 30, 2005
Our Nation is on the verge of Bankruptcy
According to Bank negara Malaysia's annual
report as at the end of 2004, the government's
external debt totalled Rm$34.7 billion while its
domestic debt is estimated atRm$181.9 billion.(nst. 28
July,2005.)If these figures are accurate and I have no
reason to doubt the authencity of Bank Negara's own
data base,then we can safely say that our nation is on
the verge of bankruptcy.A nation that is Rm$220
billion in debt cannot be viewed as solvent.
Malaysians must now ask our leaders how a
nation with so much natural resources end up being so
indebted?Were there lack of good governance, lack of
transparency and accountability that contributed to
this state of affairs?The crucial question is whether
our country was all along being financially
mismanaged?
In order to ascertain lack of good governance
we must first examine some policy decisions.Why was
lucrative highway contracts farmed out to private
enterprise with guaranteed future profitabilty?If
future profit is guaranteed why didnt the Govt. do it
themselves and divert the profits to the country's
coffers instead of benefitting private companies with
political connections?
Why was govt. contracts privately negotiated
and given at inflated price to contractors when a
public tender would save the govt.huge sums?Why did
the govt incur huge foreign and domestic debt to build
infrastuctural projects when it didnt had any funds of
its own?Why did the govt. forgoe revenue from excise and
custom duties by giving away A.Ps that benefitted a
few individuals that are politically connected to the
govt.
All these above questions remain unanswered and
must now be addressed.In view of our country' present
indebtedness, a comprehensive review should be
undertaken to introduce good governance,
transparency,accountabilty and good ethical
leadership.
Any attempt to introduce the N.E.P without addressing
the above weaknesses would be futile.
report as at the end of 2004, the government's
external debt totalled Rm$34.7 billion while its
domestic debt is estimated atRm$181.9 billion.(nst. 28
July,2005.)If these figures are accurate and I have no
reason to doubt the authencity of Bank Negara's own
data base,then we can safely say that our nation is on
the verge of bankruptcy.A nation that is Rm$220
billion in debt cannot be viewed as solvent.
Malaysians must now ask our leaders how a
nation with so much natural resources end up being so
indebted?Were there lack of good governance, lack of
transparency and accountability that contributed to
this state of affairs?The crucial question is whether
our country was all along being financially
mismanaged?
In order to ascertain lack of good governance
we must first examine some policy decisions.Why was
lucrative highway contracts farmed out to private
enterprise with guaranteed future profitabilty?If
future profit is guaranteed why didnt the Govt. do it
themselves and divert the profits to the country's
coffers instead of benefitting private companies with
political connections?
Why was govt. contracts privately negotiated
and given at inflated price to contractors when a
public tender would save the govt.huge sums?Why did
the govt incur huge foreign and domestic debt to build
infrastuctural projects when it didnt had any funds of
its own?Why did the govt. forgoe revenue from excise and
custom duties by giving away A.Ps that benefitted a
few individuals that are politically connected to the
govt.
All these above questions remain unanswered and
must now be addressed.In view of our country' present
indebtedness, a comprehensive review should be
undertaken to introduce good governance,
transparency,accountabilty and good ethical
leadership.
Any attempt to introduce the N.E.P without addressing
the above weaknesses would be futile.
Thursday, July 28, 2005
A.Ps Given To Niece.
The Minister of Internatonal Trade and
Industry, Rafidah Aziz adamantly claimed that she was
wronged and that she had not done any thing irregular
with respect to the issuance of A.Ps.She lied as
implied by Dr. Mahatir's statement because she mislead
not only the UMNO assembly but also the cabinet.The
obvious flaw in her statement of innocence is the
contradiction as reveal in the A.P list of 2004 where
it was shown that her niece, Annie, received 850 A.Ps
in 2004 and 199 A.Ps in 2005.
One wonders how she could swear her innocence
in front of the Holy Koran that she was cleaned when
in effect her hands were tainted with
corruption.Unless of course we are led to believe that
it is perfectly legitimate for a Minister to dispense
A.Ps to their relatives.Surely it would be a mockery
of our system if a Minister can escape with such a
brazen act of deception and still remain in public
office.But then maybe this is something acceptable in
'Bolehland.'
Industry, Rafidah Aziz adamantly claimed that she was
wronged and that she had not done any thing irregular
with respect to the issuance of A.Ps.She lied as
implied by Dr. Mahatir's statement because she mislead
not only the UMNO assembly but also the cabinet.The
obvious flaw in her statement of innocence is the
contradiction as reveal in the A.P list of 2004 where
it was shown that her niece, Annie, received 850 A.Ps
in 2004 and 199 A.Ps in 2005.
One wonders how she could swear her innocence
in front of the Holy Koran that she was cleaned when
in effect her hands were tainted with
corruption.Unless of course we are led to believe that
it is perfectly legitimate for a Minister to dispense
A.Ps to their relatives.Surely it would be a mockery
of our system if a Minister can escape with such a
brazen act of deception and still remain in public
office.But then maybe this is something acceptable in
'Bolehland.'
Sunday, July 24, 2005
The Govt. Should Abolish A.Ps.
The revelation of the A.P. list merely
confirmed what the Tun had said all along that too
many A.P's were given to only a few individuals.But
what is most shocking is Rafidah's defending the
policy of giving out so many A.P's to so few
bumiputras.No one can deny that A.P's are licence to
print money because the permits are marketable and
easily converted to cash.The open A.P's are especially
in demand and can easily fetch $50,000 per permit.The
demand for such an A.P can be seen by this example. A
Ferrari from Europe will cost about $500,000.If you
buy an A.P at $50,000 your cost will be
$550,000.Without an A.P after paying excise and custom
duties the cost of the car will be in the vicinity of
$1.5 million. (custom and excise duties at 150%)
Rafidah seems to make a big deal that
Nassimuddin was able to get five or six franchises
from different companies from all over the world.But
the fact of the matter is that when you have A,Ps the
foreign principal companies come looking for you and
not vice versa.You dont even have to lift a finger
because the foreign principals know that if you can
import cars at a cost of $11,000 without paying excise
and custom duties, it is a virtual certainty that
their imported cars will sell like hot cakes.With the
franchise A.Ps you don't even have to have any
expertise in the automative industry to make a
handsome profit.All you have to do is add a margin
that is not below proton cars price and presto you are
printing 40k to 50 k for each A.P.
What is most sickening is Rafidah's statement
that it is a workable scheme that she will continue to
practice.Surely a scheme that only enrich a few
already rich bumiputras cannot be deemed to be
equitable.If such a scheme is allowed to continue, the
N.E.P will certainly not be able to be achieved in a
100 years.The wealth will remain in the hands of a few
wealthy malays while the rural heartland of the malays
will continue to remain impoverish.
The govt should abolish this skewed method of
wealth distribution and devise a more equitable system
that will ensure the poor rural malays will benefit
from its N.EP policy.
The A.P scheme is certainly not a suitable
vehicle for wealth distribution.The billions of
dollars that would have been collected from the excise
and custom duties should rightly go to the country's
coffers.From the revenue collected, a scheme that is
more equitable in wealth distribution should be
implemented so that the 30% equity in the economic pie
can be attained by all the malays.
confirmed what the Tun had said all along that too
many A.P's were given to only a few individuals.But
what is most shocking is Rafidah's defending the
policy of giving out so many A.P's to so few
bumiputras.No one can deny that A.P's are licence to
print money because the permits are marketable and
easily converted to cash.The open A.P's are especially
in demand and can easily fetch $50,000 per permit.The
demand for such an A.P can be seen by this example. A
Ferrari from Europe will cost about $500,000.If you
buy an A.P at $50,000 your cost will be
$550,000.Without an A.P after paying excise and custom
duties the cost of the car will be in the vicinity of
$1.5 million. (custom and excise duties at 150%)
Rafidah seems to make a big deal that
Nassimuddin was able to get five or six franchises
from different companies from all over the world.But
the fact of the matter is that when you have A,Ps the
foreign principal companies come looking for you and
not vice versa.You dont even have to lift a finger
because the foreign principals know that if you can
import cars at a cost of $11,000 without paying excise
and custom duties, it is a virtual certainty that
their imported cars will sell like hot cakes.With the
franchise A.Ps you don't even have to have any
expertise in the automative industry to make a
handsome profit.All you have to do is add a margin
that is not below proton cars price and presto you are
printing 40k to 50 k for each A.P.
What is most sickening is Rafidah's statement
that it is a workable scheme that she will continue to
practice.Surely a scheme that only enrich a few
already rich bumiputras cannot be deemed to be
equitable.If such a scheme is allowed to continue, the
N.E.P will certainly not be able to be achieved in a
100 years.The wealth will remain in the hands of a few
wealthy malays while the rural heartland of the malays
will continue to remain impoverish.
The govt should abolish this skewed method of
wealth distribution and devise a more equitable system
that will ensure the poor rural malays will benefit
from its N.EP policy.
The A.P scheme is certainly not a suitable
vehicle for wealth distribution.The billions of
dollars that would have been collected from the excise
and custom duties should rightly go to the country's
coffers.From the revenue collected, a scheme that is
more equitable in wealth distribution should be
implemented so that the 30% equity in the economic pie
can be attained by all the malays.
Saturday, July 16, 2005
Justice should be Tampered with Mercy.
I wish to refer to the article nst. dated 16th
july 'man gets Jail, rotan for sex with minor.'I
followed the case in 2003 when session court judge
Suraya Othman in her wisdom released Mohd Khairil
Anuar Osman on a $5000 three year bond for good
behaviour.At that time I was most impressed with the
demeanor of this Judge because she took the trouble to
inquire from the prosecutor whether the sexual act
between the two teenagers was consensual and on
finding that it was she proceeded to give a non
custodial sentence to the young man.At that time I
fully concurred with the Judge sentence because a
custodial sentence would not only ruin his future but
cast him among hardened criminals in prison.An act of
passion between two young people cannot be construed
as a criminal offence under section 376 of the penal
code.
Judge Suraya Othman had said at that time "that
it would not serve public interest to put him in jail
for a technical crime and that five years jail for
statutory rape was too heavy a sentence."This Judge
should be complimented.While other Judge would simply
gloss over the case , she would take the trouble to
inquire to see whether there were any mitigating
circumstances.She embodies the principle that justice
should be tampered with mercy.I salute this woman.
Imagine my shock when I read your paper that the
prosecutor had succeeded in his appeal when Judge
Datuk Muhamad Ideres Muhamad Rapee had struck out the
order of Judge Suraya.What is justice if justice means
sentencing a young man to 10 years in prison for an
offence that can be translated to be a moment of
passion which resulted in consensual sex between two
teenagers.If it was a case of an older man with the
minor I would understand the gravity of the
offence,but this was a young man barely out of his
teen.While we are safely in the comfort of our home
spare a thought for this frighten young man
languishing in prison for a crime he probably doesn't
even know.The law should show some compassion and
bring him home from prison. He simply don't deserve
the 10 years and five stroke of the rotan.Anybody who
can help this young man please do so.I am convince that
this young man got a poor deal.
july 'man gets Jail, rotan for sex with minor.'I
followed the case in 2003 when session court judge
Suraya Othman in her wisdom released Mohd Khairil
Anuar Osman on a $5000 three year bond for good
behaviour.At that time I was most impressed with the
demeanor of this Judge because she took the trouble to
inquire from the prosecutor whether the sexual act
between the two teenagers was consensual and on
finding that it was she proceeded to give a non
custodial sentence to the young man.At that time I
fully concurred with the Judge sentence because a
custodial sentence would not only ruin his future but
cast him among hardened criminals in prison.An act of
passion between two young people cannot be construed
as a criminal offence under section 376 of the penal
code.
Judge Suraya Othman had said at that time "that
it would not serve public interest to put him in jail
for a technical crime and that five years jail for
statutory rape was too heavy a sentence."This Judge
should be complimented.While other Judge would simply
gloss over the case , she would take the trouble to
inquire to see whether there were any mitigating
circumstances.She embodies the principle that justice
should be tampered with mercy.I salute this woman.
Imagine my shock when I read your paper that the
prosecutor had succeeded in his appeal when Judge
Datuk Muhamad Ideres Muhamad Rapee had struck out the
order of Judge Suraya.What is justice if justice means
sentencing a young man to 10 years in prison for an
offence that can be translated to be a moment of
passion which resulted in consensual sex between two
teenagers.If it was a case of an older man with the
minor I would understand the gravity of the
offence,but this was a young man barely out of his
teen.While we are safely in the comfort of our home
spare a thought for this frighten young man
languishing in prison for a crime he probably doesn't
even know.The law should show some compassion and
bring him home from prison. He simply don't deserve
the 10 years and five stroke of the rotan.Anybody who
can help this young man please do so.I am convince that
this young man got a poor deal.
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Wake Up A.C.A and Do your Job.
It has become a habit for our Menteri Besars
when in or out of office to display great wealth.Not
long ago if memory serves me correct we had an M.B
caught in Australia with a couple of millions in loose
change trying to exit from an Australian city.Needless
to say he was caught and charged in court and from
there the sordid details of his extravant purchase of
landed property was revealed.The revealation of his
astounding wealth seems to pose some questions as to
how the wealth was accumulated when his monthly salary
was only about $20,000.Considering that he had only
served one term as M.B (but was still in office) the
question still remain unanswered till today was 'where
did he obtained his millions?'
Next, we had an M.B who contested for an UMNO
vice-President post who spent nearly a million to
secure his win by bribing the delegates.The million he
spent for the election was just only loose change
because his two palatial homes in Port Dickson and
Nilai must have cost a few million too.
The most scandalous of the lot must be the
ex-M.B of Sabah losing $158 million to a casino in
U.K.What is most perplexing in this case was how did
he accumulate such fabulous wealth in so short span of
time?
Frankly, its not difficult to trace where their
wealth is derived from.The State ExCo. consisting of
elected state assemblyman that are selected in the
exco committee holds regular monthly meeting to decide
on matters from application of state land to approval
of licences for forest concessions..If you require
approval for any application dont expect to get it as
a matter of course.Without going through the proper
channel and some agreed financial arrangement it is
most likely your application will be rejected without
any reasons given.
Despite all these public display of wealth by our
politicians the most glaring dereliction of duty must
be the A.C.A.They seem oblivious to all that is
happening.Maybe they are waiting for the culprit to
make a public confession before they will take any
action.By now the citizens of this country must be
immune to all this blatant acts of corruption.Each new
leader come to office with the promise of eradicating
this scourge but each time we are left
disappointed.Sadly we must admit we just don't have
the leader to exert the political will and
determination to wipe out this menace.
when in or out of office to display great wealth.Not
long ago if memory serves me correct we had an M.B
caught in Australia with a couple of millions in loose
change trying to exit from an Australian city.Needless
to say he was caught and charged in court and from
there the sordid details of his extravant purchase of
landed property was revealed.The revealation of his
astounding wealth seems to pose some questions as to
how the wealth was accumulated when his monthly salary
was only about $20,000.Considering that he had only
served one term as M.B (but was still in office) the
question still remain unanswered till today was 'where
did he obtained his millions?'
Next, we had an M.B who contested for an UMNO
vice-President post who spent nearly a million to
secure his win by bribing the delegates.The million he
spent for the election was just only loose change
because his two palatial homes in Port Dickson and
Nilai must have cost a few million too.
The most scandalous of the lot must be the
ex-M.B of Sabah losing $158 million to a casino in
U.K.What is most perplexing in this case was how did
he accumulate such fabulous wealth in so short span of
time?
Frankly, its not difficult to trace where their
wealth is derived from.The State ExCo. consisting of
elected state assemblyman that are selected in the
exco committee holds regular monthly meeting to decide
on matters from application of state land to approval
of licences for forest concessions..If you require
approval for any application dont expect to get it as
a matter of course.Without going through the proper
channel and some agreed financial arrangement it is
most likely your application will be rejected without
any reasons given.
Despite all these public display of wealth by our
politicians the most glaring dereliction of duty must
be the A.C.A.They seem oblivious to all that is
happening.Maybe they are waiting for the culprit to
make a public confession before they will take any
action.By now the citizens of this country must be
immune to all this blatant acts of corruption.Each new
leader come to office with the promise of eradicating
this scourge but each time we are left
disappointed.Sadly we must admit we just don't have
the leader to exert the political will and
determination to wipe out this menace.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Democracy is Dead in Malaysia
The term democracy no longer connotes any
significance if the freedom to say the truth is
rewarded with a punishment.A government that demands
absolute loyalty from its cabinet members irrespective
whether it is right or wrong cannot fundamentally
pretend to espouse democracy.At best it can only
pretend to be one.Western style democracy especially
the Westminister type demands that ministers in the
cabinet or parliamentarians are expected to speak on
issues that they feel is in contradiction or is
contrary to their expectations.
It is therefore not uncommon for members of the
same party to break ranks in order to voice their
opposition to certain govt. policy as in the case of
Labour Ministers and parliamentarians speaking out
against the U.k govt's involvement in the Iraq war.
So when Deputy Minister Sothinathan was
suspended for breaking rank and speaking against the
govt. on an issue that affected the interest of a
section of the malaysian public, the suspension marks a
sad day for our fledgeling democracy.If a member of
the govt whether he be a minister or backbencher
cannot speak out on issues that he feels is against
the interest of its citizens then democracy is dead.
significance if the freedom to say the truth is
rewarded with a punishment.A government that demands
absolute loyalty from its cabinet members irrespective
whether it is right or wrong cannot fundamentally
pretend to espouse democracy.At best it can only
pretend to be one.Western style democracy especially
the Westminister type demands that ministers in the
cabinet or parliamentarians are expected to speak on
issues that they feel is in contradiction or is
contrary to their expectations.
It is therefore not uncommon for members of the
same party to break ranks in order to voice their
opposition to certain govt. policy as in the case of
Labour Ministers and parliamentarians speaking out
against the U.k govt's involvement in the Iraq war.
So when Deputy Minister Sothinathan was
suspended for breaking rank and speaking against the
govt. on an issue that affected the interest of a
section of the malaysian public, the suspension marks a
sad day for our fledgeling democracy.If a member of
the govt whether he be a minister or backbencher
cannot speak out on issues that he feels is against
the interest of its citizens then democracy is dead.
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Who are The London Terrorists?
After sept. 11, foreigners of muslim
origins coming to the united kingdom are stringently
screened and it is not uncommom for the immigration to
turn away dubious muslim travellers if they are
suspicious of their intended purpose of travel.
In view of the very strict entry
surveillance, it is most likely that the terrorist who
planted the bombs were muslims of British origin.There
were previous instances where British citizens of
muslim origin going to Pakistan, Afganistan and even
Iraq to join the legions of foreign fighters.If there
are British citizens of muslim origin who are prepared
to go to foreign land then it is conceivable that
there are fanatic muslim terrorists of British origin
on British soil.
As long as Britain host a sizeable
population of muslim citizens it is highly probable
and most likely in the forseeable future that such
bombings will be repeated.To prevent such future
bombings in the future the govt. must institute more
stringent immigration policy prohibiting muslim
migration into the United Kingdom.At the same time it
should monitor closely the movements and activities of
radical muslim groups in the united Kingdom.
In the aftermath of the London bombing many
muslims in London no doubt criticised the bombing but
what was most disturbing was their denounciation was
qualified with a justification that it was in return
for United Kingdom's invovlement in Afganistan and
Iraq where innocent civilians were bombed and
killed.If such perception is common among the muslim
populace in U.K then it is very possible that there
will be muslims who are prepared to extract revenge on
British soil.
The chorus of Protest against such
terrorists bombings should be unanimous and vocal.To
kill and slaughter innocent civilians in the course of
furthering the muslim religion do not serve justice to
the very religion they are trying to defend.
origins coming to the united kingdom are stringently
screened and it is not uncommom for the immigration to
turn away dubious muslim travellers if they are
suspicious of their intended purpose of travel.
In view of the very strict entry
surveillance, it is most likely that the terrorist who
planted the bombs were muslims of British origin.There
were previous instances where British citizens of
muslim origin going to Pakistan, Afganistan and even
Iraq to join the legions of foreign fighters.If there
are British citizens of muslim origin who are prepared
to go to foreign land then it is conceivable that
there are fanatic muslim terrorists of British origin
on British soil.
As long as Britain host a sizeable
population of muslim citizens it is highly probable
and most likely in the forseeable future that such
bombings will be repeated.To prevent such future
bombings in the future the govt. must institute more
stringent immigration policy prohibiting muslim
migration into the United Kingdom.At the same time it
should monitor closely the movements and activities of
radical muslim groups in the united Kingdom.
In the aftermath of the London bombing many
muslims in London no doubt criticised the bombing but
what was most disturbing was their denounciation was
qualified with a justification that it was in return
for United Kingdom's invovlement in Afganistan and
Iraq where innocent civilians were bombed and
killed.If such perception is common among the muslim
populace in U.K then it is very possible that there
will be muslims who are prepared to extract revenge on
British soil.
The chorus of Protest against such
terrorists bombings should be unanimous and vocal.To
kill and slaughter innocent civilians in the course of
furthering the muslim religion do not serve justice to
the very religion they are trying to defend.
Saturday, July 02, 2005
Suhakam should consider its call to punish those who visit prostitutes.
The human rights commission,Suhakam,should
preoccupy itself with more important issues rather
than making a call to punish those who frequent
prostitutes.Studies have shown that people who
frequent prostitutes have an underlying sexual problem
or the need to vent their sexual frustration vis-a vis
prostitutes.
The oldest profession in the world
invariably has a role to play in every age and in
every society.There are people in our society who have
difficulty in forging meaningful relationship with the
opposite sex and the availabilty of prostitutes
provide an avenue for these psycologically handicap
people to have the service of prostitutes.In the
absence of prostitute these people would have no
alternative but to target innocent woman who could be
your sister, wife or even your mother.
In the context of our malaysian society we
have over a million of foreign workers in our work
force.Most of these foreign workers left their wives
and family to seek work here. These foreign workers
are also human beings who have sexual urges like every
normal human beings.Over a duration of two to three
years while they are here where do you expect them to
release their pent-up sexual frustration?Would we
prefer a situation where these foreigners resort to
raping your sister, wife or love ones?There are
certainly many such cases already in our midst and the
surest way to aggravate the situation is to take away
the outlet for them to visit prostitutes.
In fact many western countries have now even
seen the merit of legalising prostitution and
strangely enough statistic have shown that sexual
crimes are virtually non-existent in such countries.
Our southern neighbour, Singapore have also joined the
chorus of countries legalising prostitution.So before
hastily calling for punishment against those visiting
prostitutes and the extreme measure of eradicating
prostitution, I suggest Suhakam make an in depth study
before embarking on such a course.
preoccupy itself with more important issues rather
than making a call to punish those who frequent
prostitutes.Studies have shown that people who
frequent prostitutes have an underlying sexual problem
or the need to vent their sexual frustration vis-a vis
prostitutes.
The oldest profession in the world
invariably has a role to play in every age and in
every society.There are people in our society who have
difficulty in forging meaningful relationship with the
opposite sex and the availabilty of prostitutes
provide an avenue for these psycologically handicap
people to have the service of prostitutes.In the
absence of prostitute these people would have no
alternative but to target innocent woman who could be
your sister, wife or even your mother.
In the context of our malaysian society we
have over a million of foreign workers in our work
force.Most of these foreign workers left their wives
and family to seek work here. These foreign workers
are also human beings who have sexual urges like every
normal human beings.Over a duration of two to three
years while they are here where do you expect them to
release their pent-up sexual frustration?Would we
prefer a situation where these foreigners resort to
raping your sister, wife or love ones?There are
certainly many such cases already in our midst and the
surest way to aggravate the situation is to take away
the outlet for them to visit prostitutes.
In fact many western countries have now even
seen the merit of legalising prostitution and
strangely enough statistic have shown that sexual
crimes are virtually non-existent in such countries.
Our southern neighbour, Singapore have also joined the
chorus of countries legalising prostitution.So before
hastily calling for punishment against those visiting
prostitutes and the extreme measure of eradicating
prostitution, I suggest Suhakam make an in depth study
before embarking on such a course.
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Five Days Week A mistake.
Dear Editor,
At the moment Malaysia cannot afford a
five days week.As it is , many of the govt.
departments are struggling to clear the backlog of
their current workload and the newly going to-be
implemented five days week is going to increase that
workload.The land office is one typical department
that has a pile up of land transfer applications and
even with computerisation the waiting period for such
transfer to be completed can be 3 to 6 months.In
addition to this, sub-division of land now takes a
minumum of 1 to 2 years and with the five days week
the period is going to be longer.
Another area that will suffer with the five
days week would be the judiciary.As it is, the backlog
of court cases have already reached an unprecedented
delay time.Some civil cases have a waiting period of
up to 5 years and even without the new five days week
the outstanding cases have not been resolved. The old
adage that justice delayed is justice denied is going
to be more pronounced.
All these backlogs in workload could have been
averted if the govt. introduce a five day week but at
the same time open all govt departments for seven days
week.This effectively means we have a win-win situation
where civil servants enjoy a five days week but at the
same time keeping all govt. dept open for seven days
week.This can easily be accomplished by rotating off
days for staff. Some staff may take week days off and
some may work during week-ends.All these would merely
involve some administrative juggling and should not
pose any problems in the organisational structure.One
added advantage of a seven days week would be the
creation of more employment opportunities and this
should offer employment avenues for our unemployed
graduates.The increased revenue obtained from the
seven days week should easily offset the cost of
additional staff.
While it is commendable for the govt. to give
more time for civil servants to spend with the family,
it is also important that the govt should ensure the
quality of service rendered to its citizens should not
be compromised.While a seven days week has not been
tested any where in the world, I suggest the govt
seriously consider its implemetation because I feel it
is a viable proposition.
,
At the moment Malaysia cannot afford a
five days week.As it is , many of the govt.
departments are struggling to clear the backlog of
their current workload and the newly going to-be
implemented five days week is going to increase that
workload.The land office is one typical department
that has a pile up of land transfer applications and
even with computerisation the waiting period for such
transfer to be completed can be 3 to 6 months.In
addition to this, sub-division of land now takes a
minumum of 1 to 2 years and with the five days week
the period is going to be longer.
Another area that will suffer with the five
days week would be the judiciary.As it is, the backlog
of court cases have already reached an unprecedented
delay time.Some civil cases have a waiting period of
up to 5 years and even without the new five days week
the outstanding cases have not been resolved. The old
adage that justice delayed is justice denied is going
to be more pronounced.
All these backlogs in workload could have been
averted if the govt. introduce a five day week but at
the same time open all govt departments for seven days
week.This effectively means we have a win-win situation
where civil servants enjoy a five days week but at the
same time keeping all govt. dept open for seven days
week.This can easily be accomplished by rotating off
days for staff. Some staff may take week days off and
some may work during week-ends.All these would merely
involve some administrative juggling and should not
pose any problems in the organisational structure.One
added advantage of a seven days week would be the
creation of more employment opportunities and this
should offer employment avenues for our unemployed
graduates.The increased revenue obtained from the
seven days week should easily offset the cost of
additional staff.
While it is commendable for the govt. to give
more time for civil servants to spend with the family,
it is also important that the govt should ensure the
quality of service rendered to its citizens should not
be compromised.While a seven days week has not been
tested any where in the world, I suggest the govt
seriously consider its implemetation because I feel it
is a viable proposition.
,
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Dr. Shafie Mohd Salleh should Resign.
The Higher Education Minister, Dr. Shafie mohd
Salleh, is a product of the system.In terms of
experience as a minister he has done nothing
outstanding and his role in the Gomez saga exemplifies
his mediocrity.But his recent statement denying that
there was no tampering of exam results and favouritism
in promotion at U.M. reflects on his abilty as a
minister.
The pertinent question that needs to be
answered is how did Shafie arrived at the decision
that there was no tampering of students results and
that there was no favouritism in promotion?To say
publicly via the media he must be very confident with
his statement.But how did he come to that
conclusion?.One can only assume that the
Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Hashim Yaacob would have
communicated this to Shafie.
Does Dr. Shafie realise that his statement is in
direct contradiction with the staff Union association
of U.M allegations that the Vice -chancellor was aware
of exam tampering and favouitism in
promotions.?Further, Gomez also publicly accused U.M
authorities of the same demeanour.So who is telling a
lie now?
How could a Minister be so slip-shod in his work
is beyond me.To do justice to this allegations and to
determine the veracicty of such a serious allegation,
the proper thing to do is to conduct a transparent,
unbiase investigation into the truth of the matter.An
allegation of such importance which could in effect
tarnish the reputation and integrity of the
institution should not be treated with such
friviolty.A mere public statement of denial by the
Minister that such allegations was a figment of
somebody's imagination is the height of stupidity.The
proper and appropriate thing for the Minister to do is
to conduct an impartial investigation into this
allegation before coming to any conclusion .The
failure of Dr. Shafie Mohd Salleh to do this is
tantamount to dereliction of his duty and for that he
should resign.
Salleh, is a product of the system.In terms of
experience as a minister he has done nothing
outstanding and his role in the Gomez saga exemplifies
his mediocrity.But his recent statement denying that
there was no tampering of exam results and favouritism
in promotion at U.M. reflects on his abilty as a
minister.
The pertinent question that needs to be
answered is how did Shafie arrived at the decision
that there was no tampering of students results and
that there was no favouritism in promotion?To say
publicly via the media he must be very confident with
his statement.But how did he come to that
conclusion?.One can only assume that the
Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Hashim Yaacob would have
communicated this to Shafie.
Does Dr. Shafie realise that his statement is in
direct contradiction with the staff Union association
of U.M allegations that the Vice -chancellor was aware
of exam tampering and favouitism in
promotions.?Further, Gomez also publicly accused U.M
authorities of the same demeanour.So who is telling a
lie now?
How could a Minister be so slip-shod in his work
is beyond me.To do justice to this allegations and to
determine the veracicty of such a serious allegation,
the proper thing to do is to conduct a transparent,
unbiase investigation into the truth of the matter.An
allegation of such importance which could in effect
tarnish the reputation and integrity of the
institution should not be treated with such
friviolty.A mere public statement of denial by the
Minister that such allegations was a figment of
somebody's imagination is the height of stupidity.The
proper and appropriate thing for the Minister to do is
to conduct an impartial investigation into this
allegation before coming to any conclusion .The
failure of Dr. Shafie Mohd Salleh to do this is
tantamount to dereliction of his duty and for that he
should resign.
Friday, June 24, 2005
University Bashing And Govt. Bashing.
Dr. Musa Mohd Nordin's seem to take umbrage at
the truthful articles written by Product of the system
and Artemis Tower.Yes , the truth always hurts and
Musa like many of his counterparts who are a product
of the system would be the last to admit it.If not for
government intervention and policies extended to
Public Universities, civil service, army, police and
every government controlled institutions, people like
Musa would not be sitting comfortably in their
positions and making unbelievably half baked
statements that they are not product of the system.Ask
all the top bumiputra civil servants, the IGP, the
Chief Justice and they will deny that they are the
product of the system.I bet my last dollar that every
one of them will say that they are there because of
merit and not because of bumiputratism.And if we are
to believe that this is true then we better start
believing that 40% of Malaysia's non bumiputra
citizens
are imbeciles incapable of holding or leading any of
the top government positions.
Malaysians of non bumi ethnic origin should not
only be bashing at the malay academics at U.M but
should also be bashing at the govt.for not appointing
non-bumi's for top positions in the civil service,
judiciary,police, army and every govt-controlled
institutions.It is not by accident nor by merit that
the top positions are occupied by one ethnic group but
by a clear an irrevocable design by the corridors of
power in the govt.
It is people like Dr. Musa who choose to deny
that they have benefitted from the system and by
their own volition often chose to bite the hand that
feeds them.This even prompted the former P.M, Mahathir
to rebuke the malays for being ungrateful and turning
their back against the govt despite the govt's
numerous assistance and opportunities provided for
them.
the truthful articles written by Product of the system
and Artemis Tower.Yes , the truth always hurts and
Musa like many of his counterparts who are a product
of the system would be the last to admit it.If not for
government intervention and policies extended to
Public Universities, civil service, army, police and
every government controlled institutions, people like
Musa would not be sitting comfortably in their
positions and making unbelievably half baked
statements that they are not product of the system.Ask
all the top bumiputra civil servants, the IGP, the
Chief Justice and they will deny that they are the
product of the system.I bet my last dollar that every
one of them will say that they are there because of
merit and not because of bumiputratism.And if we are
to believe that this is true then we better start
believing that 40% of Malaysia's non bumiputra
citizens
are imbeciles incapable of holding or leading any of
the top government positions.
Malaysians of non bumi ethnic origin should not
only be bashing at the malay academics at U.M but
should also be bashing at the govt.for not appointing
non-bumi's for top positions in the civil service,
judiciary,police, army and every govt-controlled
institutions.It is not by accident nor by merit that
the top positions are occupied by one ethnic group but
by a clear an irrevocable design by the corridors of
power in the govt.
It is people like Dr. Musa who choose to deny
that they have benefitted from the system and by
their own volition often chose to bite the hand that
feeds them.This even prompted the former P.M, Mahathir
to rebuke the malays for being ungrateful and turning
their back against the govt despite the govt's
numerous assistance and opportunities provided for
them.
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
racial Integration cannot be attained by merely introducing Language classes.
Our govt doesn't seem to understand the
underlying problem why non-malays are reluctant to
send their children to National schools.If they think
that by introducing language classes such as mandarin
and tamil it will attract them back to National
schools then they are in for a surprise.
I thought by now our educational
authorities would know that our National schools have
surely and surreptiously become religious schools
catering for the needs of the malay students.With the
present set-up, a non malay will simply not fit into
the daily curriculum.
But the fundamental question is whether our
govt is really serious about forging racial
integration amongst its plural society?I don't think
so.What about the bumiputra students that are creamed
from schools at standard six and sent to MRSM
schools?These MRSM schools are exclusively bumiputra
instituition catering exclusively for only one
community.From the moment these students are creamed
from standard six to MRSM schools they will have no
contacts whatsoever with non bumiputra students.These
students will not have any opportunity for racial
interaction with other races. When these students
continue their tertiary education thay will virtually
go through a phase in their adult lives similarly
without any contact with the other races.From the
cream of these students one day will emerge a leader
to lead this nation. The frightening thought is that
this leader will be someone who has no knowledge, no
contact and no understanding of the other races.One
can only speculate what the repercussion would be when
this become a reality.
underlying problem why non-malays are reluctant to
send their children to National schools.If they think
that by introducing language classes such as mandarin
and tamil it will attract them back to National
schools then they are in for a surprise.
I thought by now our educational
authorities would know that our National schools have
surely and surreptiously become religious schools
catering for the needs of the malay students.With the
present set-up, a non malay will simply not fit into
the daily curriculum.
But the fundamental question is whether our
govt is really serious about forging racial
integration amongst its plural society?I don't think
so.What about the bumiputra students that are creamed
from schools at standard six and sent to MRSM
schools?These MRSM schools are exclusively bumiputra
instituition catering exclusively for only one
community.From the moment these students are creamed
from standard six to MRSM schools they will have no
contacts whatsoever with non bumiputra students.These
students will not have any opportunity for racial
interaction with other races. When these students
continue their tertiary education thay will virtually
go through a phase in their adult lives similarly
without any contact with the other races.From the
cream of these students one day will emerge a leader
to lead this nation. The frightening thought is that
this leader will be someone who has no knowledge, no
contact and no understanding of the other races.One
can only speculate what the repercussion would be when
this become a reality.
Dr.Hashim Yaacob should Resign
The looming crisis regarding U.M's
involvement in exam results tampering and favouritism
in the promotion of its academic staff have rendered
Dr. Hashim Yaacob's position as Vice-Chancellor
untenable.If there is any truth in the allegations
levied against the U.M authorities and I personally do
not doubt the veracity of the allegations, then it is
indeed a serious blemish to U.M as an academic
institution.
The allegations strike at the very chord
of what U.M strives to attain in providing graduates
of a certain standard comparable to the very best at
least in Asia.Tampering of results of students
especially is a serious matter because it cast a dark
shadow on the quality of its graduates and this in
turn will deprive the innocent graduates the
recognition they duly deserve.
The recent statement by Dr. Hashim Yaacob
that Gomez resignation was not a loss to U.M and the
susequent reversal of his decision by P.M to allow 2
years of non- pay leave to Gomez is further prove that
he can no longer remain at his post as Vice Chancellor.
Any person with any intellectual ability to comprehend
his dilemma would have no hesitation in tendering his
resignation.Dr. Hashim Yaacob should do the needful and
just resign. That is the most honourable thing for him
to do and hopefully it will retrieve at least a portion
of whatever reputation he has left.
involvement in exam results tampering and favouritism
in the promotion of its academic staff have rendered
Dr. Hashim Yaacob's position as Vice-Chancellor
untenable.If there is any truth in the allegations
levied against the U.M authorities and I personally do
not doubt the veracity of the allegations, then it is
indeed a serious blemish to U.M as an academic
institution.
The allegations strike at the very chord
of what U.M strives to attain in providing graduates
of a certain standard comparable to the very best at
least in Asia.Tampering of results of students
especially is a serious matter because it cast a dark
shadow on the quality of its graduates and this in
turn will deprive the innocent graduates the
recognition they duly deserve.
The recent statement by Dr. Hashim Yaacob
that Gomez resignation was not a loss to U.M and the
susequent reversal of his decision by P.M to allow 2
years of non- pay leave to Gomez is further prove that
he can no longer remain at his post as Vice Chancellor.
Any person with any intellectual ability to comprehend
his dilemma would have no hesitation in tendering his
resignation.Dr. Hashim Yaacob should do the needful and
just resign. That is the most honourable thing for him
to do and hopefully it will retrieve at least a portion
of whatever reputation he has left.
Monday, June 20, 2005
The World Already Knows.
I don't think I agree with P.M's statement
that we have to tell the story about Malaysia to the
world.Frankly the world already knows and the picture
they see is not an attractive one.In this day of
globalisation and information technology the click of
the mouse will simply tell everyone from Timbucktu to
Alaska what is happening in Malaysia.Our corrupt civil
service, our lack of transparency in awarding govt
contracts, the govt bailing out of badly managed
companies using Govt-linked companies funds,our
corrupt politicians,our poorly managed finance
ministry manned by an incapable 2nd Finance minister
and a Bank Governor who does not even know the meaning
of misalignment.To be honest, the list of bad
corporate governance of our public listed companies
have led foreign investors to shun our equity
market.By just looking at our stock market index of
800 plus tells a simple story that investors are not
interested in our market that lacks transparency.
In short the world knows about our poorly
managed economy and all the nuts and bolts of our govt
apparatus.There is simply nothing to tell the world
what they already know.
that we have to tell the story about Malaysia to the
world.Frankly the world already knows and the picture
they see is not an attractive one.In this day of
globalisation and information technology the click of
the mouse will simply tell everyone from Timbucktu to
Alaska what is happening in Malaysia.Our corrupt civil
service, our lack of transparency in awarding govt
contracts, the govt bailing out of badly managed
companies using Govt-linked companies funds,our
corrupt politicians,our poorly managed finance
ministry manned by an incapable 2nd Finance minister
and a Bank Governor who does not even know the meaning
of misalignment.To be honest, the list of bad
corporate governance of our public listed companies
have led foreign investors to shun our equity
market.By just looking at our stock market index of
800 plus tells a simple story that investors are not
interested in our market that lacks transparency.
In short the world knows about our poorly
managed economy and all the nuts and bolts of our govt
apparatus.There is simply nothing to tell the world
what they already know.
Corrupt LLN and Indah water Officials.
The ulgly tentacles of corruption has now spread from the police, civil service to LLN and the sewerage company Indah water.Last week a business colleague of mine confided that he was so exaperated with the attitude of the engineer who reportedlythreatened that no electricity would be provided for his housing project.The reason being that he started his project after two years of LLN approval to provide him with electricity.My friend was adamant that therewas no delay because after obtaining approval from LLN he still had to obtain approval from other govt authorities and this took almost two years before it was finally approved. Needless to say, my friend was desperate as any delay in completing his project would inccur more cost.Finally, he ask his project manager to approach the engineer and money changed hands. A week later he received a letter from the LLN engineer that theywould now supply electricity for his project. Next encounter was with the Indah water authorities.The contractor for my friend's sewerage could not commence his work. Each time he went to the Indah water office he was told that they could not find his file.Without the file and the approved plans my friend's contractor could not proceed with his work.Finally in desperation he approached one of the officials and again money changed hands and miraculously next day the file was found. When confronted with such a situation, most businessman would find it more convenient to give than suffer severe economic losses.Nobody enjoy parting with their hard earned money but what recourse did my friend had?Its easy to condemn my friend and say that he should have refrained from giving money to those crooked officials. But the economic consequences of failing to deliver houses on time could be disastous. Yes, sad to say, it appears corruption has spread its tentacles to practically every aspect of our lives.As long as our leaders do not have the political will and the personal determination to eradicate this menace it will gradually become part of our culture and entrenched in our society.
Scholarships And Patriotism
Every year at this time there is alot of heart break for parents and students with exemplary results.The same tune is repeated year in and year out and despite the obvious lack of transparency in its selection criteria, the authorities dont seem to care or simply dont give a damn about it.From the media hue and cry it is quite obvious that the affected parties are always the non bumiputra students. The stark silence from the bumiputra students can only mean that they are quite happy with the selection criteria. And why not when you see bumiputra with mediocre results getting scholarships in critical courses. Frankly I dont know what kind of message our govt is sending to these young intelligent malaysians who have attained brilliant,excellent academic results.We are talking about the cream of the malaysian students. Students who manage to obtain 13 and 12 straight A'S being denied scholarships to do courses of their choice.As one student succinctly put it,the govt wants us to love our country and be patriotic but is this their way of winning our love for the country.? The present govt policy has created a generation of bitter, angry malaysians.In order to have loyalty and patriotism from its citizenry the govt has to earn it.It doesnt come easy on a platter.The govt cannot expect its citizens to remain loyal and patriotic when it treats its citizens with contempt.At the moment our govt seem to be imbued with jealousy at the remarkable academic success of its non bumiputra citizens that it is contriving every means possible to deprive them of any success at all. I wish the govt have the opportunity to hear the angry voices of parents and students vented at them. Any govt worth its salt would take heed of this, for a govt that choose to ignore this angry cry would do so at their own peril.
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