Wednesday, May 26, 2010

KTMB LAND DEAL – WHY THE HASTE?

The speed at which PM Najib concluded a deal with his Singapore counterpart over the proposed relocation of KTMB's train terminal at Tanjung Pagar to Woodlands is baffling. Once again, Malaysia have lost a historical landmark that has been ours since the colonial days, just by a stroke of a pen. Earlier it was the RMAF Sg. Besi airbase, and a few months ago, it was Pulau Batu Putih. What else is going for sale or lost, is any one's guess.

I do not know what all it takes for PM Najib to strike such a hasty deal with his Singapore counterpart. But as an ordinary citizen, I am terribly concern that this all important issue, i.e. the question of the nation's sovereignty is given a backseat. Nations go to war over their rights to retain land, and in the example of KTMB land deal, it seems a cup of tea was all it takes to conclude an agreement. Malaysians are totally ignorant as to how the deal was made, and by saying that Khazanah owns 60% of the deal in the future development of KTMB land is not enough to satisfy every right thinking Malaysians. The least PM Najib could have done was to raise this issue in Parliament.

Former PM Tun Dr. Mahathir had once remarked that it is not easy to negotiate and to strike a deal with the Singapore government, that is to our advantage. But in the case of PM Najib, it wasn't that difficult at all. What is so lacking in Tun Dr. Mahathir that he had so often failed in his dealings with his Singapore counterpart. And what is so obviously easy for PM Najib to appease his counterpart to accept an agreement, that has for years been kept in abeyance.

I know for sure that officials of the Singapore government are not dumb and stupid. They are the best crop of the nation, and it is not so easy to hoodwink them. They do not have people like Bung Mukhtar, or for that matter, the likes of Nazri Aziz as lawmakers. Each an everyone of them are scholars, and I think PM Najib knows this.

My only hope is that PM Najib does not get hoodwink by his Singapore counterpart in this KTMB land deal, and that the agreement reached is in the best interest for both Malaysia and Singapore.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

US ARMY RECALLS ADVANCE COMBAT HELMETS

It was reported that the US Army had recalled 44,000 Advance Combat Helmets (ACH) that was supplied to them by ArmorSource for some defects that does not meet US Army's technical specifications.

It was reported that US Army Program Executive Officer, Brig Gen Pete Fuller in rejecting the ACH remarked that, “Soldiers safety is our number one priority”.

Here we note the mark difference between the Malaysian Army and the US Army when dealing with equipments that are known to be defective, where the former would just close an eye if a defect is observed. I blame this solely on the lack of integrity on our officers who may have been on the 'pay roll' of the agents or suppliers of such defective equipments.

The US Army has shown us what integrity is all about, and that soldiers safety is paramount. Will the Malaysian Army be bold enough to do likewise, in rejecting some known defective combat helmets that was supplied to the army recently?


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Monday, May 24, 2010

FOOTBALL BETTING – IS IT HALAL OR HARAM?

The answer to the question posed in the title of this posting is best answered by the religious gurus within the government. I would personally like to hear from the Minister in the PM Department in charge of Islamic affairs, his personal opinion with regards to this issue. As of now, there is absolute silence from all of the government’s religious gurus, including the Malay champion PERKASA. Why the silence…….I don’t know. To say that they do not have eyes to see and ears to hear may not be true.

I don’t blame PM Najib for approving the Football Betting activity because he may be ignorant of the religious ruling on this matter, but certainly I do not forgive his religious advisers. Or are the religious advisers too afraid to say to PM Najib that Football Betting is haram? Where are the Muftis then? And why are they silent too? Mind boggling indeed!

The government claims that Islam is the official religion of this country, but what they do contradicts the official Islamic status of this country. Is the government thinking of collecting taxes from this gambling activity, and don’t they know that money derived from all forms of gambling activities is haram? It was only about two months ago at a mosque in Bukit Antarabangsa during a Friday prayer that the sermon by the Imam that day was all about ‘duit haram’, where the congregation were told that anything that you do with ‘duit haram’ is haram. Even a primary school boy will understand what the Imam had said, but strangely, our government’s religious gurus seem oblivious that Football Gambling is haram, and money derived from such an activity is haram.

I do not want to claim to be a religious guru, but I certainly know that Football Gambling is haram. So let us not try and defend what PM Najib has done, and to reason that he had approved it for the non-Muslim only.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Sunday, May 23, 2010

NAZRI AZIZ – PLEASE BE MORE RESPONSIBLE IN WHAT YOU SAY OF OTHERS

It was reported that the Coroner’s Court has rejected a motion to cite Minister in PM’s Department Nazri Aziz for contempt for allegedly calling Dr. Pronthip a liar after the latter had failed to attend the resumption of the inquest into the death of Teoh Beng Hock.

In rejecting the motion, Coroner Azmil Mustapa Abas cites that, “Nazri was merely expressing a personal view”. He further cites that, “To say that Dr. Pronthip lied is not acceptable, but everyone is entitled to their own opinion”.

I must thank Coroner Azmil for his professional judgment in rejecting the motion to cite Nazri Aziz for contempt. I can now call anybody a liar as I please, and then say that I am expressing a personal view, and am entitled to my own opinion. I can also now call the Coroner and Nazri Aziz a lair as well…………could I?

Personally, I think this judgment does not make any sense at all. How could Nazri Aziz utter such a statement, just because Dr. Pronthip does not want to present her findings personally to the court. Dr. Pronthip has her reason not to attend the court in person, and one has to respect her decision. By citing such a motion, the coroner has now created precedence for anyone to call a witness a liar if he/she fails to appear in court to defend his/her findings, or to be cross examined.

As for me, calling someone a liar is not a pleasant thing to do unless I am extremely sure that he/her has lied. Taking Dr. Pronthip’s case, no one except those with a professional knowledge similar to that of Dr. Pronthip can make any observation/comments on Dr. Pronthip’s findings. Now, who is Nazri to make a comment and to call Dr. Pronthip a liar? Is he a member of the prosecution team? If he wants to be in the prosecution team, then he should resign his minister’s post? And being a minister, does he think he has the right to make comments on any cases that goes before the courts?

I just wonder, sometimes learned people can be so uncouth and a bothersome. And Nazri Aziz is one minister who has the capacity to say things that are uncouth and lacks finesse. I can simply sum up by saying that it is the upbringing of Nazri Aziz that has made him what he is today.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Friday, May 21, 2010

PM NAJIB MUST ADMIT THAT HIS CAMPAIGNING METHOD WAS FLAWED

PM Najib has made the biggest blunder of his life; something that I and most people would not want to believe nor hear what he has said during his recent by-election campaign in Sibu. I wouldn’t want to watch the video of him campaigning again, because I believe that what he did was all wrong. I am surprised that he had the audacity to utter ‘child like promises’ to the people of Sibu. Isn’t the manner the promises were made a form of corruption? If it was not, then what do you call it? It is just like saying, “I give you this million ringgit contract, and you give back 500 thousand in kickback”.

We have had five PMs before Najib, and as far as I can recall, none had campaigned the way that Najib did. I think, the honorable Tun Abdul Razak would the first person to criticized Najib, and I do not know what the others would say. Tun Dr. Mahathir and Tun Abdullah has so far refrained themselves from commenting, and could it be that they are in agreement with what Najib had done? Silence does indicate agreement.

I want to be honest that I once admired Najib, for I like his simplicity, caring, approachable and mild mannered nature. I first met him when he was the Menteri Besar of Pahang, when I was then the Chief of Staff of HQ 4 Brigade back in the early 80’s. Having to attend several state meetings in which he presided, and despite his youth, I still appreciated his maturity at the way he conducts the meeting. He was then in his late 20’s, and I was nearing 40 then.

The last time I met Najib was when he flew in to visit the Malaysian troops serving in Cambodia in 1992. I attended dinner with him in Cambodiana Hotel that night, and in attendance was PERNAMA Chairman, retired Gen Tan Sri Hashim Ali. We talked among others, the quantum of UN allowances that each soldier was to receive, and Gen Tan Sri Hashim Ali supported my view that the UN allowances must be paid in full to each soldier, without any deduction. Gen Tan Sri Hashim Ali was making reference to the deduction made by the government upon the UN allowances paid to our soldiers serving in the Congo then. Najib must have heeded the argument made by Gen Tan Sri Hashim Ali and upon his return to Kuala Lumpur; he announced that soldiers serving with the UN in Cambodia shall receive their UN allowances in full. That announcement fulfilled the promise that I made to my soldiers at a parade in Majidee Camp, Johore Baru, prior to our departure to Cambodia when I said that, “ if I were to receive 1 ringgit, you all too will receive 1 ringgit”.

Now that Najib is the PM, he has changed somewhat in his tone and language. The language that he had used in Sibu, appears like he is so desperate in wanting to win, and is willing to disregard decency and good campaigning ethics. He was at his best trying to dangle a carrot to his audience that eventually was thrown back at him. I would say that the BN could have won if Najib had used his own personal strength i.e. his good-natured character. He did not employ such demeaning tactics during the 12th GE. Najib has now to swallow his pride and accept a portion of blame for BN’s lost, and not just simply say that the Sarawak BN campaign machinery was not up to the mark. He should have been more direct by saying that the Sarawak Chief Minister, who has been at the helm of the state government for more than two decades, should assume full responsibility for the loss, and not to remain mute and oblivious to the issues affecting Sibu.

Losing Sibu, a former stronghold of the BN is a bitter lesson for Najib’s administration. If the lost of Sibu is to serve as a wake-up call for the up-coming Sarawak state election and the 13th GE, then the BN had better watch out. Losing Sarawak would mean losing the political grip of the Federal government and with that ends BN’s political dominance over the whole nation.

Dangling the carrot is no longer an assured method used to appease the voters, especially the Chinese in Sarawak. It may still be applicable here in the peninsular because the Chinese in Sarawak and the Chinese in the peninsular are two different people. The BN could use such campaigning methods successfully with the Ibans, just like the way the BN did with the Malays and Indians voters during the Hulu Selangor by-election.

My appeal to Najib is please change your campaigning methods to something more honorable and decent. Stop this carrot dangling method as it is nothing more than corruption. What you have done is to encourage more corruption, and it does not surprise me now that this country will one day end up like Zimbabwe. Besides, you have also given sufficient ammunition to the opposition to ridicule you in the next GE.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Thursday, May 20, 2010

MORE ARMED FORCES CAMPS FOR SALE – TRUE OR FALSE?

I have just received a note in my post box this morning that I want to share with all my readers, the contents of which is appended below. I do not know whether the note is written in jest, or is it the truth. I will leave it for all to judge.

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ARMED FORCES CAMPS FOR SALE

Following the recent sale of the RMAF base in Sg. Besi, Kuala Lumpur, the government has now offered for bidding several other Armed Forces camps as under:
1. RMAF base Subang, Selangor
2. RMN base Lumut, Perak
3. Army base Camp Mahkota, Kluang, Johor
4. Mindef complex, Jalan Padang Tembak, Kuala Lumpur
5. Army camp, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
6. Army camp Terendak, Melaka
7. Army Camp Kuantan, Pahang
8. RMAF base Kuantan, Pahang
9. Army base Kuching, Sarawak
The above camps are not conclusive, and more Armed Forces camps will be offered for bidding in the next 6 months. There is no price tag offered, and the winning bidder is one that offers the highest price quote. Bidders are advised to submit along a full detail of what they proposed to do with the camps. End.
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Since no mention is made with regards to the evicted units and occupants of the above camps, I therefore assume that the units will be disbanded to save cost that is likely to be incurred by the government.

Can someone please confirm whether the above note is true or otherwise?


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

THE ORDER OF THE DAY - SOME THOUGHTS FOR THE NEW CHIEF OF ARMY

Come Monday, May 24th 2010 the newly minted Chief of Army (COA) Jen Dato Zulkifly Zain will make his maiden speech in what is known as ‘The Order of the Day’ speech at Sg. Besi Army Camp in a grand army parade. The speech sets in motion the COA desire on the shape and form of what he expects the Army to be. Normally, it is from this speech that policies/instructions emanate and to be disseminated down to the various commands for implementation. It is quite normal too that a text of the speech is prominently displayed at various places within the formation and units, to be mustered by officers and soldiers.

I do not know what is in the mind of the new COA, and how he intends to structure his speech. I hope the contents of the speech is not going to be one that is too ambitious and high sounding, but a speech whose ideas and thoughts are achievable, practical, desirable and most of all benefiting the army. I hope too that the speech is void of any intended acquisition of more sophisticated military hardware and grandeur projects. I would rather like to hear how the new COA intends to consolidate the forces (equipment and men) presently at his disposal, and to build them into a formidable force capable of meeting the challenges and demands of a modern army.

To meet the challenges and demands of a modern army, the developmental aspect of the human capital is of primary importance. Hence, I hope to hear the measures that the COA would take to fulfill the aforesaid requirement that not only emphasizes the development of the officer corps, but including the other ranks as well. Related to this, I hope he allude to the developmental aspect of the various army training institutions, to be coupled with the introduction of new teaching and training methods that is based on technologies that can generate excitement and realism in training.

I would also like to hear how he foresees the army reserve force (ARF) be develop into a force that can truly augment the regulars in time of need. There should be greater emphasis on ‘cross training’ and affiliation with the regulars so that a common bond and understanding is achieved. ARF must never be treated as a ‘second class army’, rather they be treated as equals with the regulars, if not better.

In so far as the technical units are concern, the thrust would be to develop knowledge and skills that can lead officers and soldiers alike to become experts in a specialized field. They should also be encouraged to go into research and development that can contribute to the development of the local defence industry. I have no doubt that our officers and soldiers have the prerequisite knowledge and skill to indulge in research and development; an area that has not been given focus in the past. The knowledge and skill that they have acquired is no loss to the army when they retire; on the contrary it will be a gain to the private sector and the nation upon them leaving the army.

I also hope that the speech does allude to the importance that the army is apolitical organization and should not be dragged into any political squabble by any one political party. Politicians must be told to avoid inferring the use of the army in any foreseeable civil disturbance. The decision to use the military or otherwise is a military one, and is not to be dictated by politicians. The public has to be reminded of the army’s primary role and it’s pledged loyalty to King and country. A word should also be made as to the army’s continued role in support of national development, particularly of the rural areas.

An emphasis must also be made with regards to developing a joint force operational capabilities with the other two armed services, because future wars will be joint in nature. Every effort must be made to include the participation of the other two armed services in all major army exercises, and such exercises must be well scheduled and regulated. The idea is to think 'joint', and not single service anymore.

Finally, make it clear that the army does not tolerate corrupt officers and soldiers, as the profession is a noble and honorable one. Establish a clear policy to refrain officers from having any dealings with businessman, or be seen to favour a particular businessman that has business interest with the army. If officers and soldiers are found to be corrupt, the punishment must be severe as a deterrent to others.

I wish the new COA the best of luck, and I have every confident and hope that he will lead the army to new heights.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

WHERE HAVE THE MILLIONS GONE?

Each time I take the route along MMR2 overlooking the newly built army housing complex at Sg. Besi camp, I say to myself that this was the place that I last served prior to my retirement. And seeing the new housing complex, I thought it will be the final solution to the housing problems of soldiers who had to go on rentals, since there were an acute shortage of public housing for the soldiers during my time.

The construction took a long period of time to complete; almost a decade; and it was only last night that I was told that the developer i.e. Syarikat Perumahan Negara (SPN) had done a shoddy job. If one were to view the housing complex from the exterior, it will look good, but getting into the houses speaks a different kind of story. I inquired further, only to be told that the military authorities in Sg. Besi have refused to take over most of the houses because of the numerous defects found to the houses. Now where do we go from here, and whom do you blame.

Millions have been spend, and millions more will be spend on infrastructure development for the Armed Forces, and each time a contract is awarded to someone, the result is full of uncertainty.Why has this to be so, if it is not because of the massive corruption that is all too familiar in the construction industry. Someone did say to me that the construction industry in this country is the most corrupt industry, and there is little doubt now that SPN has proven it to be so.

These are some of the real issues that the Armed Forces should be serious about i.e. proper housing for soldiers, and not be too enthusiastic about the procurement of military hardwares that costs billions. What good are these billion ringgit military hardwares if your soldiers are living in dilapidated houses, and where the maintenance money is never enough?

I did make a comment regarding the dilapidated and famous Army Combat Training Center (PULADA) in Ulu Tiram, Johore in some earlier postings. I say famous because even the former Ugandan President Addi Amin was trained in that center when it was occupied by the British Forces in the 50's. I did ask someone to make a visit to the center and to witness for themselves the terrible state of affairs at the center. I say, just throw one billion ringgit from the eight billion ringgit allocated for the 8x8 IFV project, and I can assure you that with that money, you can get three ultra-modern PULADAs that will benefit hundreds of officers and soldiers. At least with an ultra-modern PULADA, we will no longer be ashame to receive visitors from overseas and to show them that the Malaysia Army's training facility is comparable, if not better than that of other modern armies. I served PULADA twice, and I was terribly ashame to take my foreign visitors on a tour around the center.

Once again, I say where have we gone wrong? I think the answer lies in the leadership.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

MUSHAARAF – BLATANTLY WRONG IN FACTS

Come the month of June, I will be a 2 year old blogger. Actually, I started blogging after having known that a friend of mine i.e. retired Mej Dr. Rafick Khan Abd Rahman who owns a blog ‘rights2write’, has been writing to express his personal views over a myriad of issues, which he could not otherwise have done without his articles being edited, if he were to send his articles to the mainstream media.

I too have been writing and sending articles under the ‘Letters column’ of the New Straits Times, and my short letters too would be scrutinized by the editor. I also noted that if I were to send letters that are critical to the government, then my letters would end up in the waste paper basket. This was when I started to follow the foot-steps of retired Mej Dr. Rafick Khan, and to try my luck at blogging.

What I like most about blogging are the comments following the articles that I write. I read every piece of comment, and it is from these comments that I get to learn more about what I have written. I am not particularly concern about the language used by some commenter, but from the language they used, I can also make out the sort of person the commenter is, and understanding people’s character is one thing that I enjoy doing.

Here, I wish to draw the attention of my readers to an article that I posted on Friday, June 13th 2008 titled’ “The Madina Market Incident – A propaganda in its distasteful form”. I wrote the article rebutting what the former Pakistan’s President Pervez Mushaaraf wrote in his book, ‘In the Line of Fire’, in which he praised his troops for their daring exploits to save some Americans soldiers from being slaughtered by Somali fighters. Mushaaraf also commented that Pakistani troops were also involved in the ‘Black Hawk Down’ rescue efforts, but the Americans had failed to depict Pakistani troops heroic efforts in the movie.

I wrote an email to the Chief of Defence Force then i.e. Gen Tan Sri Aziz Zainal about this fake propaganda by Mushaaraf, where I told him that it was the Malaysian troops that were instrumental in the rescue of the trapped American soldiers; not the Pakistani troops as depicted by Mushaaraf in his book, and to put right the imperfections of Mushaaraf writings. I did not get any response; neither do I know whether my comments have been acted upon. If my comments have not been acted upon, then Mushaaraf has succeeded in telling a blatant lie to the world that the Pakistani troops were the heroes that had served the American soldiers from being slaughtered. From the story related to me by a Malaysian army officer involved in the rescue, the Pakistani troops were actually cowards and were never at the scene. (Please read my posting of June 13, 2008 for better understanding of the issue)

I would like to appeal to the present Armed Forces leadership to once again look into this matter, and to correct what I deem as a blatant lie by Mushaaraf, and worse still, dishonoring and denying the bravery of our Malaysian soldiers in Somalia, in the Madina Market incident. I would like to see a statement be made in the media, both print and electronic, to rebut Mushaaraf’s writings. Mushaaraf was wrong in facts, and it is our duty to correct it.

For the information of my readers too, my emails to the office of the President of Pakistan and the office of the Pakistan Chief of General Staff remained unanswered.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

RODZALI………… WHY DO YOU WANT TO GIVE UP SG. BESI EASILY?

RMAF Chief Dato Seri Rodzali Daud is reported to have said that the RMAF is ready to vacate the base in Sg. Besi to an alternative site, should a request be made by the government. However, the Defence Minister has denied any such move. Now, who are we to believe?

In the first instant, I think Rodzali does not appreciate history and lacks any knowledge that the RMAF’s birth place is the base in Sg. Besi. He is too young to know this, and hence such foolish thoughts. Just ask his predecessors; the likes of Sulaiman Sujak, Mat Ngah, Ghani Aziz (all are still alive and well), and I am quite sure they will fume in anger. These were the people who virtually grew up in Sg. Besi, and I know they all have a story to tell about the base. And here we have this young Chief who thinks moving out is the better option without appreciating the young history of the RMAF.

Each time I past the base on my route South, I recall the many Herald flights that I use to take to Sabah and Sarawak. I also remembered having to return from Labuan in the 60’s in a RAAF C 130 Hercules flight with my mother awaiting my return. I also remembered seeing the RMAF Chief then, Mat Ngah riding his BMW big bike around the base, and I admired him for his long and curly hair. These are thoughts that come to my mind when I see familiar things, and Sg. Besi air base is one place that I am extremely familiar with. Surely, we do not want Sg. Besi air base to be another Mid Valley, and the congestion that it will create around the area.

I would like to appeal to Rodzali to discard the idea of moving out the Sg. Besi air base to a new location. Moving out will only enriched others, but the RMAF will lose a significant part of its history. And I being a lover of history vehemently despise such a move.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Monday, May 17, 2010

THE OPPOSITION PARTY’S PREDICAMENT

In the situation where PKR is at now, I think it requires a miracle to get the party out of its predicament. There seems to be a trail of issues and problems besetting the party mainly caused by defections, dissensions, and speculations of further defection of more party members that may costs PR state controlled government to weaken. Anuar Ibrahim seems a spent force, and his on-going sodomy trial is seriously tapping into his resources, which I think is affecting his physical well being. The ‘gang-ho’ that he was, is eroding.

Though one may blame that there are the hidden hands of UMNO/BN behind all the problems besetting the PKR today, I would rather attribute the failure of the PKR leadership itself to scrutinize its own members, who by and large were formally UMNO/BN members. Some carry along with them the egoistic and arrogance posture that is a trademark among some UMNO elitist. I would also think that the bottom line is personal and materialistic gains, and the void of any sincere and steadfast loyalty to party. This has been the bane in UMNO/BN in the past, which has now manifested itself in PKR…….an eerie manifestation.

I somehow do not see a similar trend infecting PAS or DAP. Generally, their members have been staunchly loyal to the party, and it is because of this that the party has remained intact, and is quite free of self serving individuals. It is evident that there is greater sense of loyalty among its members towards its leaders, and the squabble among members for party positions is not too obvious. Internal squabbling is kept low keyed. And of course, one has not heard nor come across accusation that its members are involved in money politics, a creation of UMNO and a redefining in the meaning of corruption. Securing a party position means nothing really to them, because it does not come with the largesse, contracts or whatsoever.

The formal coalition of PKR, PAS and DAP into a unified Pakatan Rakyat (PR) for the up-coming General Election scheduled in the next two years will be a daunting one for whoever is to assume the leadership of the coalition. A loosely knitted PR is certainly not the way to challenge a well machined BN that has the ‘sky as its limit’. And by remaining in separate political entities does not portray unity; rather it show a serious division that is shrouded in mistrust and uncertainty.

The formal coalition (if ever it is to be realized), need to be strong and a leadership that is buttress in absolute loyalty, corruption free and its policies focused towards people oriented policies. Promises of grandeur projects that is suppose to benefit the people, like that of the many ‘corridors’ introduced during the time of Tun Abdullah Badawi’s administration, I think will no longer draw the peoples support. Who are the beneficiaries of such grandeur projects, if it is not the elitist and the powers that be? The rural folks remained sidelined, or are merely spectators to the dislodgement of their once tranquil and serene environment.

PR has to be realistic in their promises to the people, which must be easily understood and implementable. The promises of millions here, millions there is all hallow talk, and it does not appeal to the people any longer. Anyway, where is the money to throw when PR is not the ruling government? PR therefore cannot take on UMNO/BN based of the promises for grandeur projects. PR can certainly take on UMNO/BN over the ‘bread and butter’ issues, and these are the core issues that are at the heart of the people, and the lists are aplenty. Relook and capitalised on the winning strategies that was adopted in the 12th GE. If it was successful once, it may be successful the second time.

Two years more from the 13th General Elections is not too far away. And if PR thinks that the party can create another ‘tsunami’ that can take them along the road to Putrajaya, then the groundwork has to begin now. This means that there should no longer be any petty squabble from within and among the parties. PR has to solidify its members and they must be willing to entrenched themselves in all nook and corners of the country. The idea is to be visible and to create a ‘third column’ like strategy that was successfully adopted by the Japanese in Malaya in the run up to World War 2. Knowing the needs of the people is the key to winning the election. And similarly in war, and as the saying goes, knowing the enemy wins the war.

Now the million dollar question is who among the leaders of PR today that can lead the charge during GE13. Will it be a leader from PKR? Will it be someone from PAS, or will it be from DAP? The obvious answer is that the person has to be Malay, and my bet is that he is somebody from PAS. Will my prediction be right this time? We will have to wait and see.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Sunday, May 16, 2010

IBRAHIM ALI – PLEASE GIVE 1 MALAYSIA A CHANCE

“I don’t need to apologies to anybody. Even if the guy puts a gun to my head, I would not do so” say Ibrahim Ali, the Malay hero. Would you want me to believe in what he had said? Well, I hope somebody does put gun to his head and I bet you he will plea for mercy. No right minded and sane person wouldn’t panic at being pointed a gun. Only an insane person does react to fear, and if we are to believe in what Ibrahim Ali has said, then I say he is clearly insane.

What has angered this Malay hero? Was it over the failed attempt by some Malay NGOs to gather in Trengganu to commemorate May 13? Why throw tantrums at others? Wasn’t it not PM Najib who disallowed the gathering to be held, and if it was so, then throw your anger at PM Najib. Would Ibrahim Ali dare to do this? I don’t think so because he has all to loose, and his political career will be in jeopardy. After all, he only has another 2 more years in parliament and after that time, he will be left in a limbo. UMNO wouldn’t lift a finger to lend support for him in the next GE, and he knows that. Hence, he has to make a name for himself now as a Malay hero (without troops) in the hope of securing Malay rural support in the next GE.

Ibrahim Ali, don’t you be so confident that just because you were able to successfully gather the Malays for the PERKASA gathering a few ago months ago, you think you can be voted again in the next GE? It wasn’t you that drew the Malay crowd. It was the presence of Tun Dr. Mahathir. Take away Tun Dr. Mahathir, and you will be left alone howling at an empty PWTC hall.

What you are doing now does not auger well for this country. You must recognize that ours is a multi-racial country, and we have lived together respectfully as a nation for many years. To say that the Malays have dominated the country’s political, economic and social life is totally incorrect. The other two races have made significant contributions too and we ought to be thankful for that. We will not be what we are today without them. We have no choice but to live together for the good of our children and our generation to come, as this is the only country and home that they know. The Malays will gain respect if we respect others, and this was what I saw during my formative years. Maybe, you have not lived side by side with other races; hence your parochial outlook.

PM Najib, I think is trying to put right the racial divisions that are prevalent in our society today, with the 1 Malaysia slogans. I personally think he is doing the right thing, but Ibrahim Ali’s actions are a diversion to PM Najib’s aspirations. So Ibrahim Ali, please give 1 Malaysia a chance.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

LET’S STOP BUYING FRENCH

Big things are happening in the French courts. French investigators are digging up a trail of corruption and kickbacks alleged to have been paid by French defence manufacturers Thales (formerly known as Thomson-CSF) and DCN (the manufacturer of the Scorpene submarines) to officials and agents in Taiwan, Pakistan, India and Malaysia for the purchase of French made submarines. Just imagine that these two companies are government–owned and that being so, French government officials are therefore deemed to be corrupt as well. It was reported that in the past, the extent of corruption goes right into the palace of the French President.

Recently, Mr. Joseph Breham, a French investigator was in Malaysia to carry out enquiries supposedly relating to the purchase of the two Scorpene class submarines by the Malaysian government, which was built by Armaris (a subsidiary of DCN). The French investigator has made some revealing statements that identified Perimekar, the Malaysian agent for the Scorpene deal, was merely commission earner without any prior experience in naval procurement. Perimekar’s incorporation as a registered Malaysian company for the multi billion ringgit deal was done only a few months before the signing of the contract. Mr. Joseph Breham further reveals that DCN is famous for paying kickbacks and commissions, as was noted in the Taiwan and Pakistan cases. The Malaysian government has said that it does not want to have anything to do with the French investigator, and this only strengthens public belief and perception that there were indeed some dubious dealings i.e. a hefty kickback.

A kickback reportedly of 140 million Euro was paid to the Malaysian agent, but what is of concern to the investigator is whether any portion of the kickback was funneled back to French officials. The poor Mongolian beauty never got her share of the commission for being a ‘partner’ in the deal. She got blown to smitten instead. And similarly, I do not really know if Razak Baginda actually got his portion of the commission, since the money trail was not detected anyway in banks in this country. Had the money been here, BNM would surely have detected it. However, the revelation by the French investigator does confirm that there was a commission paid, and where do you think is the money deposited?

It is unfortunate that dealings with French defence manufacturers has resulted in a trail of death that is believed to have been caused by failed promises of cash payouts, blackmailing, greed etc. Pakistan and Malaysia are cases in point. Mysterious cases of death like these makes excellent James Bond movie and I hope some movie producers at some point in time will consider making one. And to dispose off a dead body with the use of the C4, I am sure is an act that has never been filmed before.

Malaysia has had a bad experience over the submarine deal that leaves an indelible black mark in our country’s defence dealings with France. Now, we hear of the probable purchase of the Eurocopter for the RMAF, which has a French label attached. The Army too has recently gone for the French manufactured 120mm Rifled Mortars manufactured by Thales. And I suppose the ammunition for the mortars is also French manufactured. Unfortunately, the mortars are not to be mounted on French made mortar carriers, but most probably on the Adnan Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV); a Turkish brand. I am just wondering if the Adnan IFV is sufficiently built to take on a 120mm Mortar mounted role. If Adnan IFV is not suitable, then there will always be the French to the rescue.

The Eryx anti-tank missile that is in the army’s inventory is also French manufactured. And it was only a few days ago that a friend send me an email showing a video of a French soldier deploying the Eryx, whose missile dropped only a few meters in front of the soldier when fired.

So the French connection with Malaysia is strong, and it will get stronger if French defence manufacturers remain willing to offer hefty commissions and kickbacks to Malaysian agents. That’s how Malaysian agents operate anyway. Someone did pass a remark to me recently when he said to the effects that, “if you want to be an instant millionaire, go for French”. Not French fries please, but the Euros.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Saturday, May 15, 2010

PROMISES, PROMISES EVERY WHERE AND NOT A DROP IS FULFILLED

I just do not know whether to laugh or cry when I read that PM Najib during his visit to some long houses along the Rejang river has said that the “BN is committed to improving the living standard of the rural folk in Sarawak and Sabah”. Since he was touring the longhouses along Rejang River, I presume he was making reference to the folks living in dilapidated housing conditions in that area.

Mind you, I have been to Sarawak recently and visited a longhouse in Kg. Prangkan Mawang, not very far away from Serian town(read my posting dated May 9, 2010), and to my horror, the longhouse is still without pipe water and electricity. We are already in the 20th century, and the BN has ruled this country since independence. But what I saw in Kg. Prangkan Mawang appears that Sarawak is still living in the 40’s. Fortunately, the men no longer wear the ‘cawat’, and the women folks are all dressed up. But it was a different scene altogether in Kuching town, where the home of the ministers, their families, and top government officials live in palace-like homes with exceedingly large compounds. These lots of people certainly live well ahead of the 20th century.

If PM Najib was touring the Rejang valley, let me tell you that I was there in the 70’s travelling upstream along the Rejang river from Sibu to Kapit. I lived for a year in Song, a small town just downstream from Kapit. There were several longhouses in Song that I use to frequent, and there was no pipe water and electricity then. Even in the town of Song, the power was from the generator with intermittent supply. I honestly do not know whether the longhouses in Song today have pipe water and electricity, but from my observation of Kg. Prangkan Mawang, I guess the situation in Song has not changed.

So what is PM Naib saying about improving the living standard of the rural folk in Sarawak and Sabah? Isn’t 50 years long enough for the Sarawak and Sabah governments to raise the living standards of the rural folk? Or do they need another 50 more years to realize the dreams of the children and grandchildren of the rural folks of the two states to access pipe water and electricity?

The promises and talks about improving the living standards of the rural folks and the eradication of hardcore poverty among rural Malaysians have been played over and over again, and it gets louder especially during the elections. But really, nothing substantive will occur after the elections. So what do you term such failed promises and talks? My understanding is that if you have made a promise and you do not fulfill the promise, then you are called a liar. I do not know what other better or worse superlatives to use.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Thursday, May 13, 2010

WHAT IS IN THE WORD……..SORRY?

Why is it so difficult to say sorry? The IGP says that the police will not apologies to the parents of school boy Aminulrasyid Amzah who was shot dead by the police late last month in Shah Alam. The parents of Aminulrasyid has demanded an apology from the police for alleging that Aminulrasyid was a suspected criminal, and that the IGP has refused to apologies citing that it could have legal implication, since the case is now with the courts.

Please forgive my ignorance and not being a lawyer, I do not understand what does the IGP means that by apologizing, they are legal implication. Is the IGP implying that by saying sorry, the police are deemed to have admitted to the murder? Or by saying sorry, it gives the parents of Aminulrasyid an advantage in court to prosecute the police for alleged murder? Or by saying sorry, the IGP has shamed the entire police force by giving in to the demands of an aggrieved mother?

My understanding of the word SORRY, I think differs from that of the IGP. As a child, my parents (and I believe that of the parents of the IGP) taught me to say sorry for every mistake that I make, regardless of whether the mistake was made deliberately or otherwise. I am told that saying sorry is to show humbleness, and an act of showing remorse. It does not really matter the magnitude of the mistake made, and how slighted the person can be. But by saying sorry upon realizing that a mistake has been made to someone, any normal person would have opened their hearts and willingly accept the apology.

I think the IGP is just too stubborn and has little remorse for the inadvertent failure of his own people. He seems not having the feeling of guilt that his men has committed a grievous mistake (rightfully or wrongfully), and that the mother of the dead victim has lost a dear son. Mind you, some mothers would go berserk upon losing someone dear, what more if being shot by the police.

The IGP opted to defend his men (rightfully or wrongfully) for an act that most would consider it too excessive. The gun is certainly not a toy. It kills and the user must know this. Letting loose a shot, or several shots deliberately aim at someone is an act intended to cause hurt or at worse death to someone. The question that I would like to pose is whether shooting is the only option to the policeman, when he suspects a criminal. Even if a crime has occurred, is shooting the criminal dead the correct cause of action? What if the crime is just stealing food from a food stall? Is death the only sentence befitting the crime of stealing food? I really do not know, but I think the policeman need to be more conscious and cautious of his action, and that what he does is not deemed too excessive. I think, this is where most policeman have failed, and that failure I presume lies in their training i.e. to be thoroughly trained to recognise how and what to act within the bounds of their powers.

By not willing to apologies, I hope the IGP has not set a bad precedence to the younger generation of police officers and ranks where the word sorry has little meaning and value. I hope too that our children and grandchildren do not take the example of the IGP where saying SORRY, seems no longer a word of humility.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

MAY 13 – A DATE THAT IS BEST NOT TO BE REMEMBERED

As a Malay and a retired soldier, I must confess that I hate to talk about the May 13, 1969 racial riots that will long remain a 'dark spot' in the annals of this nation. I was then a 26 year old soldier serving in Tawau, Sabah, and I only knew about the riots from the mainstream media that reaches Tawau sometimes a day too late. There was no TV then, and my immediate concern was towards my parents and my siblings who were residing in Kg. Datuk Keramat, Kuala Lumpur. Incidentally, May 13, 2010 is just a day away.

Making a call home from Tawau those days was extremely difficult and in fact, throughout the period of the rioting, I never got to call home, even from the Telecom office in Tawau. My only hope is that my parents and my siblings are all safe, and that nothing untoward will happen to them. I managed to returned home about a month after the riotings, and on the way to my parents home, I passed Kg. Baru and witnessed the destruction of some rows of shops caused by the rioting. There were a number of people killed during the riotings, and I was told that army units were deployed to Kg. Baru and Kg. Datuk Keramat to maintain the curfew. I personally do not know if the soldiers had shot and killed civilians to enforce the curfew, but if they did, I think what the soldiers did was wrong.

My parents must have lived in a state of fear in the days following the riots and food was in shortage. My father worked in the hospital, and the nature of his job requires that he be present for work everyday, and he therefore had to be escorted daily to his place of work, especially during the curfew hours. It was during his travel to work that he would stop to buy food for the family.

A few days ago we hear of a politician from Penang making reference to May 13 to the Penang Chief Minister, for reasons best known to him. Today, we read in the papers that some Malay NGOs will be holding a gathering in Kuala Trengganu tomorrow May 13, and the theme of the gathering is “Bangkit Melayu'. It was reported too that Tun Dr. Mahathir will be present at the gathering.

I do not know what is the purpose of the gathering and why the date chosen is May 13. The theme 'Bangkit Melayu' itself can give rise to lots speculation and interpretation. And it would not be wrong for one to speculate that the theme has racial under tones, and is a warning of sorts to the other races. If this is the reason for the gathering, than I think it is wrong for it will only create further mistrust and hatred of the Malays by all other races. This is a dangerous precedence, and I think it will not do any good for race relations and racial harmony among all races. My personal view of this gathering is one of lack of tolerance, insensitive and a show of arrogance to the other races. I despise such acts and my only hope is to see that the sponsors of this gathering return to their senses, and to accept that what they do will only create greater disharmony, intolerance and hatred among the various races of this country, and where the Malays will then be blamed.

I feel ashame too that Tun Dr. Mahathir; a person that I have my highest respect and regards is being dragged into this mess by an undesirable group of Malay NGOs. And this gathering too will distort and not do any good for PM Najib's 1 Malaysia.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Monday, May 10, 2010

AZHAR IBRAHIM – PLEASE SHUT UP

Who is this creature named Azhar Ibrahim from Penang? Why has he to utter the word “May 13” during a debate with Penang CM, Lim Guan Eng at the last day sitting of the Penang State Legislative Assembly? And who is he to say that the army will be called in if another May 13 like incident is to happen? Is he implying that another May 13 is likely to happen in Penang if the state government does not give in to his whims and fancies? Will he be leading a riot, and if he does, I will be the first person to volunteer to shoot him dead.

I would now like to ask this so called moron Azhar Ibrahim, where was he during May 13, 1969? I suppose he must be hiding under his mother’s armpit. As a retired soldier and having seen the disaster created by the incident, I do not wish to see a similar incident occur the second time……never again. Neither, do I wish to see soldiers be used to deal with public disorder, because soldiers are not trained to shot civilians. Please use the police, for they specialize in shooting civilians.

If you Azhar Ibrahim are so brave, why don’t you volunteer to fight with the Palestinians? If you die, you will be assured of a place in heaven. Is that what you want?

I would like to warn all politicians like this moron Azhar Ibrahim, to use a bit of your brains and to talk more sensibly. May 13 is a bitter lesson for all of us and the entire nation. My parents suffered in KL during the rioting, but not you Azhar Ibrahim in Penang. So please shut up.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

RM8 BILLION – IS IT WORTH THE SPENDING?

The hefty RM8 billion worth Letter of Intent (LOI) awarded to Deftech for the production of 257 of the 8x8 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) and other variants by the government recently has come under public scrutiny. The public demands an explanation for such hefty spending, for little is known to the public as to what really constitutes the RM8 billion spending. To the ordinary man on the street, they will just divide 8 billion by 257, and the answer is RM32 million for each IFV. This figure is certainly out of the ordinary; an unbelievable amount.

As a basis of comparison, the British government in 2007 opened to all international 8x8 IFV manufacturers to compete for a 16 billion pound sterling supply of 3,500 vehicles to the British Army. If one were to convert the total costs into RM and divide it by the total number of vehicles, the cost per vehicle would just be around RM22 million i.e. RM10 million cheaper than that offered by Deftech. RM10 million is certainly not RM10 ringgit, and this is where the government need to come out with a comprehensive explanation to appease public skepticism.

I have in an earlier posting argued that an 8x8 IFV is not suited for the Malaysian terrain. My views differed from that of the present army leadership; hence the purchase. But what I do believe is that the army has not given serious thoughts to the practical utilization of this huge monster vehicle in an actual battle situation in the Malaysian environment. Having such a huge and cumbersome vehicle does not mean that it can outperform other armoured vehicle, or has a much superior combat capabilities. This is a false notion, as size of the vehicle is certainly not the primary factor to determine combat superiority.

I am not an armoured trained officer; hence I cannot speak for the armour corps. But I have gone through some military exercises with the Indian Army in armoured warfare while a student at the Indian Staff College. It was difficult enough to deploy the vehicles in a tactical armoured maneuver in the Indian plains, and I think it will be worse in the Malaysian terrain. The emphasis here is in the effective tactical armoured maneuvers, and I do not see such a maneuver anywhere in our terrain. What good if the IFV is strung along the highway in single file formation without the opportunity of utilizing the inherent characteristics of the IFV? May I suggest that students of our staff college be given the opportunity to exercise the deployment of the 8x8 IFV during TEWTs; not just a troop but a regimental deployment in support of a formation? I would also like to suggest that the Armour Corps itself conducts an exercise and to evaluate the practicability in the effective tactical maneuver of such monstrous vehicles. I can bet that the deployment is going to be a major fiasco.

Here, I would also like to raise the issue with regards to awarding Denel of South Africa as the subcontractor for Weapons System Integration and the joint manufacturer of turrets for the IFV. I am told that the IFV will be equipped with the Denel Land System turret incorporating Denel’s Two Man Light Compact Turret 30mm, Denel’s ATGW, and Denel’s Prototype 30mm Cannon; the latter I am told is currently not used by the SA Army, and neither is it used by other armies, for reason that the weapon is believed to have some ‘unresolved problems’.

It was reported that in early November 2009, a team of selected senior army officers had made a quick visit to Denel’s facilities in South Africa, together with the local agent. Upon their return, the team quickly decided to support Denel as the integrator of the weapons system for the 8x8 IFV project. What actually transpired during the visit is not known, but rumours have it that there were some promises of a hefty kickback to a certain senior army officer by the local agent. I hope this isn’t true, but if it does, it calls for some serious rethinking and of necessity, a thorough investigation. Will the Military Police Criminal Investigation Division be willing to start the investigation, or are they toothless to do so?

The question that needs to be asked is what was the purpose of the visit? Was it to observe a weapon shooting demonstration of all the weapon systems earmarked for the project, or was it merely a visit of the facilities, and to be briefed of the systems? If it was merely a briefing and a visit around the facilities, then I would say that the visit was a worthless one. If it was a shooting demonstration, then there must be an evaluation report, and this report must be transparent to others as well. The concern of many is about the Prototype 30mm Cannon which may be a cause of problems later, and will the local agent or the manufacturer be willing to offer a guarantee that the weapon does not cause any problems, and a replacement made at their costs? And most importantly, why was the final decision to offer Denel made in such haste? Wasn’t there an open tender? To those involved in the decision making, it is pointless to hide because everyone knows who represents Denel, and the reason why Denel was selected.

Anyway, one would tend to believe in a rumour that there was a kickback, because the deal was done without inviting tenders to other international bidders. It was an arbitrary decision, so they say. Most would have thought that the 30mm Mk 44 Bushmaster would be the better choice for the 8x8 IFV, as the Turkish version is equipped with the 30mm Mk 44 Bushmaster, a weapon system that is already proven with the Turkish Army. And why was the 30mm Mk 44 Bushmaster not given a chance to be evaluated?

What we do not wish to see is a similar failure in the weapons used in the Scorpion and the Sibmas, or has army failed to learn from past lessons and experience? Hence, a review of the Denel’s Prototype 30mm Cannon by the new army leadership needs serious consideration.

For the billions spend, the army deserves something that will truly improve its fighting prowess. The people will also demand that the money is well spend, as the nation’s defence and security will be in jeopardy if the army is to be equipped with a worthless weapon system. Let not this RM8 billion become another blunder, and blunders in defence acquisition seemed quite in vogue and trendy of late.

Finally, let it be known that it is not the agents to decide what and how the army should be equipped; it is the army’s leadership. And if army fails, it is the leadership that will bear the brunt; not the agents.

Now, may I ask……………is the army leadership willing to accept such blame? And this is also the very reason why I have said all along that the army’s top leadership should avoid being associated or being seen to be associated with local defence agents. The army, and I suppose the same goes for the other two services as well, has assigned committees to study, evaluate and make their professional recommendations on all major equipment purchases. Heed the findings of these professional committees, and the top leadership must never exert the authority or influence in the final decision making. I am made to believe that there was top army leadership influence in the final decision to accept Denel.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Sunday, May 9, 2010

A MEMORABLE TRIP TO KG. PRANGKAN MAWANG IN THE SERIAN DISTRICT, SARAWAK

I did promise to write something upon my return from a short break away from Kuala Lumpur. The place that I had gone to was Kuching, Sarawak, a place that I have not visited for more than a decade. While I was in the military, I never had the opportunity to be stationed in Kuching, and Sarawak in the 70’s was a communist terrorist hot-bed. The closet that I had served in Sarawak was Bekalalan in the 60’s, and Song, east of Kanowit along the Batang Rajang in the 70’s, and Kuching was never near these two places.

I had gone to Kuching to be part of my family party to visit the family of my grandson’s future in-laws. Despite the distance and the South China Sea that divides peninsular and Sarawak, this grandson of mine could manage to win the heart of a Sarawak lass of Bidayu ethnicity named Elize, and Christian by birth, and to force us to act as the ‘negotiator’ to woo the in-laws to be, to accept him as their future son in-law.

Being an elder in the family, I accepted to lead the negotiating party and the bidding. I know that the various ethnic groups in Sarawak are steep in tradition when it comes to wooing their daughters hand in marriage, and not knowing the Bidayu tradition, really scares me. I was particularly concern of the ‘ngirup’ session that can be torturous, and I was pleased that the family understood that the ‘ngirup’ session is ‘taboo’ to me, not at this age, and they too have Muslims among their family members.

The home of Elize is in Serian, a two hour drive SE of Kuching. Traveling further SE is the town of Balai Ringin that was the home of the army during the troubled period of the 70’s. I am told that Balai Ringin still retains a base for the army. The Serian-Balai Ringin road used to be a security road once, and there have been several incidences of terrorist ambushes along the road. Today, the road is a highway and it took us about an hour to get to Serian.

But Serian town wasn’t our final destination. The home of Elize is further inland and another 50 minutes drive along a narrow one lane path before we could reach our destination i.e. a Bidayu longhouse in Kg. Prangkan Mawang.

Our arrival at Kg. Prangkan Mawang was well received by the villagers, and in particular the village head who happens to be a retired soldier, the parents of Elize and the entire family members. It was quite a reception with several shots fired from the shot gun upon seeing our arrival, and the sound of gongs permeated the air. Upon getting into the longhouse, there was an announcement made over the loud speaker welcoming us, and I was so pleased to see that among the crowd gathered in the longhouse were several ex-soldiers, and some claimed to have met me before and even served me. Their presence gave me the added confidence that the villagers can accept me and my entourage, and surely they must have said some good things about me to the parents Elize; hence the elaborate and official-like welcoming party.

The session started with a short welcome speech given by a representative of our host. He too was an ex-soldier who had served in the Service Corps. Then I was invited to give a speech and I began by saying that getting into a longhouse is not a strange thing for me. I have visited many longhouses before and even lived in some of them. I expressed my appreciation and thanks to them for receiving us with such an elaborate welcoming ceremony and proceeded to announce our intention and purpose of this visit. I told them that we are here to seek the hand in marriage of Elize, the daughter of Kassim for my grandson Hanif. There were smiles and nod of approval when I made the announcement, especially from the parents of Elize and the village head. Sensing that they had approved of my request, I became even more confident and relax and started to hand over some gifts to the parents of Elize, her other siblings, the village head and the representative of the parents. We also gave away sweets and chocolates to the children.

With the end of the formalities, the representative announced that lunch is served and we were ushered by the parents into a room for lunch. We were told that the food was prepared by an ex-soldier who was a cook from the Service Corps, and with samplings of Bidayu cuisines.

After lunch, we thought that the ceremony was over and we could take leave from our host, but that wasn’t to be. We were once again invited to be seated in the hallway to be entertained with dances, games and songs, and for which we were expected to participate as well. Except for me, the rest of my entourage has never been into a longhouse and has never been treated to their dances and games. I therefore had to take the lead in joining the hosts to their dances, to give members of my entourage and including their spouses the encouragement to join in the dances as well. Wasn’t I pleased that every member of my entourage willingly joined in the dances to the joy of our hosts and the entire occupants of the longhouse. The entire entertainment lasted for about two hours and when it ended, we were all drench in sweat and exhausted. Had there been the ‘ngirup’ session, I think the whole entertainment session would have extended into the night.

The hosts must have sensed that we have had enough of the entertainment and announced our impending departure. The entire occupants of the longhouse were called to lineup along the hallway to shake our hands and to wish us goodbye. It was quite an emotional farewell and before we could leave, the parents of Elize presented our spouses with gifts, and even some food and a large bag of rice that they had harvested.

We left Kg. Prangkan Mawang in the Serian district with both a sense of joy and sadness; joy at having to be accepted to be part of the Bidayu family, and sad at having to know that life for them in the years ahead is a life of continued subsistence, of being deprived of the basic amenities, such as electricity and piped water, in this age and period of the 20th century. Unthinkable I should say.

Elize, my granddaughter is now officially named Nur Nazia Elizabeth, a Muslim convert and hopefully she be married to my grandson Hanif Alwi in a few weeks from now.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

NOTICE

With effect tomorrow May 5, 2010, I will be out of Kuala Lumpur, and will only return home on Sunday, May 9,2010. Since I am likely to have a tight visit schedule, it is most unlikely that I will not be able to post any article during the period. I will certainly be back on the air with an article upon my return, and it is only then that my readers will know where I was during the 5 days break.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

AZAMUDDIN'S STATEMENT REVEALING

15 year old schoool boy Aminulrasyid Amzah's death at being gunned down by the police in Shah Alam on the morning of April 26, 2010 has raised public anger to the extreme, that anything said by the police regarding this case now, can no longer appease the public. This is bad times for the entire police force, and the effect of public anger has affected even the government's response to the case, that the public sees as one that favours the police. I do not wish to repeat what the IGP responses were, which is viewed by most as a mockery. And I don't even want to trust what was said by the Home Minister himself. Do we not remember the Shah Alam 'cow head incident', where the Home Minister had the audacity to hold a press conference with the perpetrators of the cow head incident by his side?

When the case first appeared in the media, the police had tried to make Aminulrasyid the villain by naming him a criminal, with a parang in the car that is intended to show to the public that Aminulrasyid had some bad motives. Even the parang found in the car can easily be contested, as it is commonly known that the police has lots of devious means up their sleeves to frame and discredit someone. Luckily, they did not place a bag of heroine in the booth of the car, and to later claim that Aminulrasyid was a drug dealer.

Now, the prime witness i.e. Azamuddin Omar, the person who was with Aminulrasyid throughout the incident has made a public statement that differs from what was earlier reported by the police. As the story goes, the police were on a shooting spree with more than 10 shots fired at the car. With that number of shots, even a mammoth could not have survived. With 10 shots, what does this really mean? Isn't this a deliberate act of murder? Now, what justification can the police offer that the action of the policeman is justifiable, and if need be,10 shot wasn't enough.

Selangor police chief has said that, “it was unethical for lawyers representing Aminulraysid's family to allow Azamuddin to give his account when the case was being investigated”. But was the police ethical when they announced that Aminulrasyid was a criminal, even before investigation began? And what about the story of the parang found in the car? Isn't the police trying to influence the minds of the public that Aminulrasyid was indeed a criminal? Who is playing fair now, and let it be known that the public are not stupid to believe all that the police have said.

The public now demands that the IGP takes full responsibility over the action (rightfully or wrongfully) of his men, and to resigns with grace. The longer he remains in the force, the more brick-bats will the thrown at him.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

BEST OF LUCK SENATOR EZAM NOOR

You can say what you want Ezam Noor, but I say that you are unfit to be made a Senator. In fact, it is a mockery. Look back at what you have done for the country. Nothing outstanding, nothing gracious and nothing honorable. But what I do know of you is that you are the person in possession of 6 boxes (supposedly filled with documents) of alleged corruption of people in high places. I also know you as a betrayer of friends. Till today you have not opened the boxes, but at every by-election, you will be the first person to say that the boxes are still with you. That is your strength; a hollow threat to others. Please keep those boxes Ezam, and have it ready to be brought to your grave.

You say that your appointment as a Senator has nothing to do with your return to UMNO's fold. You say you deserve to be made a Senator on grounds that you are a strong anti-corruption advocate through GERAK. Who are you to say all these things. I say to you that all that you have said are bags of rubbish, and I am not surprise that with your appointment as a Senator, you will be made a Yang Berhormat Menteri in double quick-time.

When you are made a Yang Berhormat, I hope you will not take the opportunity to bad-mouth your former close political associates in parliament, since you now have a huge umbrella (parliamentary immunity) to protect you. Parliamentary immunity is short-lived Ezam, and a time will come when the umbrella is taken away from you, and you will be left alone to fend for yourself. And when that time comes, all your friends will be your enemies. Don't you remember the saying that in politics that, 'there are no permanent friends, but rather permanent enemies'.

I wish you the best of luck Senator Ezam Noor, and I hope you will continue to be a strong anti-corruption advocate. You are known to have the oratorical skills of Anuar Ibrahim, and please make good use of such skills when you debate issues in Dewan Negara, and hopefully later in Parliament.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Monday, May 3, 2010

SOME TIPS FOR THE CHIEF OF ARMY DESIGNATE

Since the new army leadership has been announced, I have been receiving several SMSs and calls affirming their satisfaction to the choice of both the designated COA and DCOA i.e. Lt Jen Zulkifli Zain popularly known as ZZ (to be promoted to full General upon assuming his new appointment), and Lt Jen Zulkifli Zainal Abidin (ZZA) respectively. I am glad that the norm with regards to appointing the DCOA to take over as COA in the new army lineup is being respected. I am now told that the incumbent COA will relinquish his post on May 20, and thereafter proceed on leave.

There will surely be many things already in the mind of the COA designate, of what he aspires his command would be. I believe that one of the most important thing he should do upon assuming his new post is to ensure the right selection of his immediate staffs that will serve him well, loyal, honest, truthful and most importantly, that they all possess the highest level of personal integrity. There are many among the current crop of officers that possesses such traits and qualities, and if ZZ is able to identify them and bring them to his side, then I am quite sure we are going to see a rehabilitated and rejuvenated army, for the army certainly deserves something better now, than the past.

I am quite sure too that ZZ does not want to inherit the ‘legacies’ (good or bad) of his predecessor, and in this regards he will need to dispose of those officers whom he think will be a bane to him because of the link that they are likely to have with his predecessor. The link can take many forms, and the most important being the business dealings that they have had in the past with some favoured companies and agents. I say this because of what I hear from within and outside the confines of army. ZZ has to be serious about this if he wants to be recognized as a professional soldier and a true leader of men, and is devoid of any personal interest and linkages with businessman, defence contractors and its agents.

Assuming the exulted post of COA comes with a myriad of responsibilities. More importantly, such responsibilities extend to not only the soldiers but to their families as well. This is actually the crux of soldiering, and as the saying goes, ‘if there are no soldiers, then there are no officers’. This saying is merely to emphasize the importance of soldiers in the army, and if an officer fails in his/her responsibility towards his charge, he/she is deemed to have failed in his/her responsibility. ZZ’s responsibility now is to ensure that all officers under his command know full well their responsibilities towards their charges and their families first, before self.

I am quite sure that ZZ throughout his army service has had many experiences serving under several superior officers, and is well acquainted with the idiosyncrasies of his superiors. He would have also learnt and observe their style of command of his superiors; one that he admires, and one that he opposes. It is quite normal among subordinates to observe their superiors, to learn and to emulate the good leadership traits that are inherent in the superiors. This is what most retirees like me, and many others in the service today hope to see of ZZ; an exemplary leader who show good leadership qualities, and one that does not throw tantrums like a mad bull.

The army has seen such acts in the past, and I can say for certain that such acts are only done by those who have a serious a personality problem, and is lacking in self confidence. The reason he throws his tantrums is to show others that he is in control over all things and to exert his authority, merely to hide his apparent self weaknesses. People of this sort are weaklings, unmotivated and have false pride in them.

What I have said above are nothing new and equally, it is not my desire to teach ZZ what leadership entails. I believe he knows more than I do. But my concern is the army for which I still adore, and an early reminder to ZZ about some of the things that he should observe is apt, before he assumes the exulted post of COA.

I think, he knows too the reasons why I have been critical of army in the past, and if he don’t, what he need to do is read all my previous postings to understand my criticism of the army, especially with regards to corruption (or seen to be corrupt) by a certain group of army officers, which he may or may not know. And if nothing changes and corruption still prevails, let it be known that I will continue to criticize the army leadership till my dying days.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

SAVE DATO MIRZA TAIYAB FROM FURTHER ABUSES

I had in some earlier postings last year supported the DG Tourism Malaysia, Dato Mirza Taiyab (DMT) from being a victim of some concerted abuses of his bosses (whoever they are) that had caused DMT to be charged for alleged corruption, and to lose his pride and dignity as an honest and most trustworthy civil servant. I am glad to be a friend of DMT, and was even more pleased to know that he had been freed of all charges against him. The culprit that had put DMT into trouble is still free, but that freedom is short-lived on earth, as the wrath of Allah onto the person that had framed DMT will be severe in the hereafter. That person, I am told lives in a luxurious home, and has many cars parked in the compound of the house. Questions will surely be asked as to how can this person own such a luxurious home and so many cars? That answer can only be answered by the person, who is no longer seen nor heard in the political circle.

Now I hear that DMT is once again being told to do something that is 'unethical' and can be construed as corruption. Once again, his boss (now a new one) is involved in trying to offer a business contract to a member of the family, with likely kickbacks to benefit the boss. The budget for the contract which is related to a Media Campaign to promote tourism in Malaysia, I am told amounts to RM33 million, and the kickback demanded is said to be 30% or around RM10 million. Just see how bosses these days can enrich themselves over night, without the slightest fear of reprisal from the authorities; or are the authorities themselves a party to this scam?

Mind you, the owner of company that was awarded the contract is so powerful and arrogant that he can threatened DMT to follow his every instruction, and if DMT fails to comply, he will be punished to the extend of sending him to jail. The owner of the company happens to be a close associate of the son of some bosses of the Tourism Ministry, and it is for this very reason that he is acting like a thug.

To my dear friend DMT, please be resolute in not giving in to the demands of some corrupted idiots. You have suffered enough in the past and have no fear towards them, even if the foul instruction come from the boss. You should play strictly by the rules, and if forced to do something that you know isn't right and is acting against your conscience, report it to your superior in the civil service i.e. the KSN or raised the matter personally to MACC. Allah is with you DMT, and seek is guidance always in your prayers.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Sunday, May 2, 2010

PLEASE MR. POLICEMAN – SHOOT THE RIGHT TARGET

It has taken me quite a while to pen this article relating to the death of 15 year old school boy Aminulrasyid Amzah who was shot by a policeman in the early hours of Monday 26 May in Shah Alam. The reason is simply because I am a bit dumb founded at the way our policeman are reacting these days, and it becomes obvious to me that there is something seriously wrong with the training of our policeman. I now begin to fear that I too can be shot at anytime, for any reason that the police may find it necessary to shot me. For a moment I thought I was in Zimbabwe or in some forsaken African state, but it wasn’t to be. Thanks,I am still in Malaysia and seeing this ‘freelance sharp shooter’ who is a government employee so willingly use his gun to stop a car really frightens me. Isn’t there any other way to stop a fleeing car, or is shooting the car the only way to stop a car? Isn’t there a thing called ‘the use of minimum force’ by way of warning shots, before a policeman ‘goes for the kill’?

I thought our policemen are equipped with high speed cars and motorcycles. And even if they are on low powered motorcycles, they have the means to call for reinforcement. Isn’t that the way they are trained?

I simply could not fathom why a gun had to be used to stop a car. If it was a fleeing car that was trying to get away from the policeman, then the policeman wasn’t in any danger of being rammed by the car. And neither was the policeman in danger of being shot, or attacked with a parang, or has already being shot by someone from the fleeing car. Neither of these things happened, and yet the policeman thought that using the gun was the best option.

Now, if the policeman were to say that he only intended to shot the car tyres to disable the car, then he is a bad shot, and he requires many more hours of training at the shooting range. And if indeed he was a poor shooter, than I think he should not have been given a gun, and the police must accept blame for allowing a poor shooter to be equipped with a gun. I now wonder when did the policeman last undergo a shooting practice?

I have handled guns before, but I must confess that I am a poor shot. Guns are not easy to use, but by virtue that a gun is the personal weapon of a policeman, then they must be experts at handling a gun and engaging a target at the right point of aim. Since, there have been numerous cases of shooting by policeman that resulted in death, I presume then that their training calls for ‘one shot one kill’ type of training. This was what was told to me by a UTK friend of mine, who does not believe in a second shot kill. In the case of the UTK, I can fully understand their reasoning because the danger to their lives is real.

The IGP’s statement following the incident when he said that “if you do not want the police to enforce the law, then say so. I will tell my men to not take any action, including conduct inspection on vehicles or arrest Mat Rempits who ride without licenses” is laughable. Such words coming from the IGP is unbecoming and makes the entire force a laughing stock. I would like to suggest that the IGP goes for a public relations course. But on second thought, it is a bit too late for him, because he has just a few months left before he retires from the force.

Let us hope that this will be the last time that we hear of a shooting of a school boy. The policeman has many other targets to shoot, like robbers, murders and kidnappers, but certainly not another school boy.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Saturday, May 1, 2010

PUBLIC PERCEPTION IN THE AWARD OF ARMY CONTRACTS BAFFLING

I would like to once again raise the much talked about issue regarding the award of two army contracts that is believed to be mired in corruption and abuse by the winning bidder, working in cohorts with certain individuals that has influence in supporting the bidder win the contract. The contracts in question are the supply of Ballistic Helmets (BH), and Bullet Resistance Vest (BRV) for the army. I had in an earlier posting questioned the rational of why does army need 30,000 pieces of BRV; an amount that I think is nonsensical. I had also talked about the defective BH supplied by the contractor, but yet it was deemed acceptable by army. The latter issue is well exposed in public domain.

As far as I know, and having been a staff in the Trial & Development Wing of PULADA at two different periods, I am aware that there are stringent international rules governing the issuance and approval of safety equipments to members of the Security Forces; and both BH and BRV are categorized as safety equipments. I believe too that local companies that are suppliers or manufacturers of such equipments must be in possession of a police permit to deal in both these equipments. I am told too that the plates used in the BRV are restricted items requiring police and import permits.

The recognized international body that governs the issuance of approval for security related equipments for use by the world’s Security Forces is the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), which is a research and development agency of the US Department of Justice. The NIJ issues the classification and categorization of various equipments depending on its level of resistance, purpose etc. If NIJ is the authority, then what has the army trial team got to do with the trials of such equipments, or is the army trial team superior to NIJ? I would like to know the nature and level of tests that they conduct, and whether the team members are technically proficient in conducting such trials. What army should have done was to verify the source and manufacturer of the equipment (be it imported or local manufactured), and whether the equipment has the prerequisite NIJ classification and categorization. Verification status can be easily accessible via internet.

I am told that there is an existing government policy that gives preference to locally manufactured products, and that the company has ready been manufacturing such products either for exports or for domestic use. In the above two issues, the company that was awarded the contract is believed to neither have the manufacturing facility, nor has been manufacturing such equipments for exports or for domestic use. But yet, I am told that there is already a local company that is manufacturing the BRV with export capability, and yet the company failed the army’s test. If it is true that the winning bidder does not have a ready manufacturing capability, than one can assume that the equipment that was presented for trials has been brought in from a foreign manufacturer, without verifying the NIJ status of the manufacturer itself. What is even worse is that neither has all other bidders who have failed in their bid, be given access to the trial reports conducted locally, which in itself can be a source of abuse and manipulation by the trial team, and I believe this happens most of the time. Now, where is the transparency that one talks about? This has been the general complaint by bidders, with some having lost the desire and confidence to do any further tender dealing with Mindef.

I am still puzzled as to how the two contracts were awarded out, and I do hope someone from within Mindef itself will be bold enough to open up an investigation into these two tender awards. Will the new army leadership that is scheduled to take over the reins of the Army in the next few days be willing to do this? I hope they do.

Let us all take a cue from the submarine deal where the case of kickbacks is still open to investigation by the French government.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION