Monday, January 31, 2011

MALAYSIAN PEACEKEEPING TRAINING CENTER

I browsed through the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) website, and I was particularly interested to know more about the MAF Peacekeeping Training Center. My interest in the center stems from the fact that I have on several occasions been invited to speak on the subject of peacekeeping, when the center initially started running courses at the Port Dickson Golf Club. I think that was in early 2000.

I remembered too that in 1997, I was invited to deliver a talk at a peacekeeping forum in Thailand, where the topic given to me was ‘Peacekeeping Operations – Lesson Learnt’, and at another forum in Hawaii. I gladly accepted the invitations because I wanted to share my experiences on peacekeeping and at the same time learn from the experiences of others. All the speakers held various appointments during their peacekeeping duties, and I spoke about my experiences as a Sector Commander during my tenure in Cambodia in 1992/1993.

Going through the website, I noticed that the center has had many achievements i.e. being the first of its kind in the region and is able to lure international participation. I believe the center was mooted during the time when Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar was the Defence Minister, and it took fruition when Dato Seri Najib Tun Razak became the Defence Minister. The center was officially opened by Dato Seri Najib in April, 20, 2006

Besides Malaysia, the Nordic countries have an established reputation as being countries that had been involved in many peacekeeping duties since the UN first undertook peacekeeping duties in 1948 following a truce in the troubled Middle East, between the Arabs and the newly formed Jewish state of Israel. With these experiences, it was only proper that the Nordic region became the center for the teaching and training of potential peacekeepers.

The establishment of a Peacekeeping Center in Malaysia is apt because of Malaysia’s experience and involvement in peacekeeping duties throughout the world; the first being in Congo in 1960. I am told that today, the Malaysian Armed Forces have deployed peacekeepers, staffs and observers to no less than 20 countries across the world. This is an outstanding number, and I attribute this to the sterling role played by our officers and troops before, which have received profound acknowledge and recognition by the UN body.

With all the experiences that members of the Armed Forces have acquired on peacekeeping duties, I wonder whether the center maintains a library of records of all those who have participated in peacekeeping in their various capacities. The records could take the form of end of mission report, writings, documents, pictures and personal records by individuals or groups that had served on peacekeeping duties. I know there have been some officers who had written books to document their experiences, and I think this is a righteous cause. All of them did it at their own expense which to my mind is quite improper. I think Mindef should have paid for the cost of printing, or a portion of the cost. I am sure many officers would have gone into writing their experience if some form of financial support is offered to them. And from my experience and knowledge, no two peacekeeping mission is the same, and for this the experiences are different. It is for this very reason that a library of experiences be kept at the center.

I’ve just been told that someone is about to document into a book the army’s experience in Somalia, with particular reference and emphasis on the infamous Bokhara Market incident. I applaud this effort to correct the misleading depiction of the incident as shown in the US movie ‘Black Hawk Down’ and the writings by former Pakistan President General Perves Musharraf in his book titled ‘In The Line of Fire’ that is seriously flawed, erroneous and need to be rectified (read my posting dated June 13, 2008). I had in fact brought this error to the notice of the Armed Forces Chief at the time, and even wrote an email to General Musharraf’s office. However, I have not received any response from either one till today. I suppose my observation has no relevance to them.

Finally, I wish to congratulate the entire management of the Malaysian Peacekeeping Training Center for an excellent website that is highly informative. Should they need photos of my Cambodian experience, I would be most obliged to provide them with some.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Sunday, January 30, 2011

EGYPT - A NATION IN TURMOIL

Egypt’s President Hosni Mubarak hold to office is slipping steadily. The week long people’s protest is gaining momentum against his more than two decades of virtual power. The people have suddenly awakened. Even the country’s judges have joined the protest. Mubarak’s entire cabinet has resigned and he has appointed the country’s Intelligence Chief Omar Sulaiman as Vice President, an appointment which hitherto does not exist. A new Prime Minister too has been appointed.

Egypt has a standing army of five hundred thousand. It was reported that more than three hundred thousand soldiers has been deployed to quell the protest, and 150 protestors were reported to have died. Some in the army are said to have ignored orders to deal with the rioters; a scene similar to the protest in Tunisia recently.

Demonstrations in support of the protestors are gaining momentum throughout the world, including Iran and the US. Protests have spread to Alexandria and the famous tourist resort of Sharm El Sheikh. Cairo, especially around Tahrir Square is the center of the people’s protest where thousands remained entrenched. Egyptian air force jet planes have flown low over Tahrir Square to intimidate and scare the protestors, but the protestors remained resolved and resolute in their protest against Mubarak.

Saudi Arabia has pronounced its support for Mubarak, but most western leaders have supported US President Obama’s call to Mubarak that ‘reshuffling of the government is not enough’. Is this Obama’s way of saying that he has had enough of Mubarak, and that it is high time that Mubarak relinquish the Presidency?

The US government and Turkey has advised its citizens residing in Egypt to return home. US and Turkey has send planes into Egypt to extricate its citizens. There are many Malaysians, especially students in studying in Egypt’s renowned universities. What will be the fate of these students? Are they not to be flown out by our RMAF flights?

How long more can Mubarak remain in power? Is this the end of the road for Mubarak? My guess is that two decades of power is enough. Mubarak’s departure is inevitable. He should leave now and follow the route that the Tunisian former President and the Shah of Iran had taken.

I call upon all like-minded Malaysians to take stock of what is happening to Egypt today, and to be conscious of the fact that it is the people that decide the government and the fate of the nation. No government can survive if the people’s faith and trust in them is compromised.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

RNTC BUNGALOWS AT FRASER HILL

I was at a wedding reception last night and someone decided that the men sit around a table together, while our spouse sits together around a table of their own. We decided to sit separated from our spouses because we wanted some freedom to talk among ourselves, since most of us have not met one another for quite a while. I remembered someone telling me that there are three occasions where we meet old lost friends. First, is at a wedding reception. Second, is at a funeral of a friend and thirdly, at the Institut Jantung Negara (IJN). Indeed, I always had the occasion of meeting with a number of long lost friends on these three occasions.

Among the many things that we talked about was one that was related to the former British Armed Forces bungalows at Fraser Hills. I then recalled that I have stayed in one of the bungalows with my family on a brief holiday while I was in the service. I believe the bungalow is called ‘The Admiralty’. There is also another bungalow called ‘The Bishop’ and a group of buildings called the Royal Navy Training Center (RNTC). The Royal Navy here is in reference to the British Royal Navy.

Back in 1982, and as the Chief of Staff of HQ 4 Brigade located in Temerloh, Pahang, I recall having established a Tactical HQ at RNTC. We had to establish the HQ there to facilitate control over operations around the Fraser Hill area. Those were the days when the infamous Chong Chor and his groups were running wild in the state of Pahang.

Someone from among us raised the issue that back in the early 70’s, he and his entire intake, and including all Army officers at the time were debited a sum of RM5/- each month for a number of years, supposedly for the maintenance of the bungalows at Fraser Hill. He then questioned that since the bungalows were government owned, why were officers required to pay for its maintenance?

We then decided to do a simple calculation. Assuming that the number of army officers then were just 1000 and with RM5/- per officer per month, it will be RM5000/- per month. And if it was a year’s collection, it will amount to RM60,000/- and that is a phenomenal sum then. And if that number of officers were to include the Air Force and the Navy, then the collection would be many fold.

I just could not remember if I had made a similar monthly contribution, but I do remember that the bungalows were controlled by Army then. I am told that the bungalows are now controlled by the office of the KSU, and I do not know if those retirees of the Armed Forces are permitted to stay (for a fee) at the bungalows.

If indeed a collection was made for the maintenance of the aforesaid bungalows, then the questions that need to be asked are as follows:

1. Where and how was the collection kept and maintained?
2. What was the total collection?
3. How much was used for the maintenance of the bungalows?
4. Was the collection sanctioned by the government or otherwise?

I would like to seek responses from those who are privy to the above issue.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

MAY THE BEST CANDIDATE WIN

In the next few hours, voters in Tenang, Johor will cast their votes in the 16 by-elections, an extraordinary number of by-elections to be held in 3 years since the 2008 General Elections. Over the last two weeks, election workers and agents from both the political parties have been working hard to ensure that their candidate gets the best support in terms of widespread publicity.

I am not competent enough to make a guess as to who is likely to win the by-election, but in the battle for publicity it is quite obvious the BN candidate seems to have the edge. The mainstream media, especially the electronic media has been providing exclusive coverage for the BN candidate.

Like in all previous by-elections, I observe that candidates rarely make an appearance to speak to the electorates at public rallies. Instead, it is the leaders of the party that does the speaking while the candidate takes a back seat. This was clearly the case in Tenang where the likes of Muhyiddin Yasin and Chua Soi Lek took center stage for the BN candidate, while Anwar, Lim Guan Eng and some PAS leaders campaigned for the PR candidate. This being so, the electorates are not able to assess the oratory skills of the candidates and to listen to the election promises that the candidates could offer.

And as in all previous by-elections too, millions of ringgit has been handed out and with promises that more to come if the BN is voted in. With limited resources, PR could not offer cash handouts and cash promises. Neither could the PR make offers of development for the Tenang electorate.

I must admit that I am somewhat appalled and dismayed at the quality of issues raised by the parties throughout the campaigning period. I would have liked that candidates labour upon issues that affects the social and economic livelihood of the electorates, such as issues relating to unemployment, rising costs of living, education, medical and health care and benefits. What are the challenges that may affect society in the years ahead, and how do the parties intend to take on such challenges. Rather then labour upon the aforesaid issues, the parties choose to launch personal and discriminatory attacks on the candidates, their spouses and even other party leaders. This is disgusting to say the least.

I do not know if ever future contending political parties and their candidates will ever adopt a more rational method of campaigning where issues that affects the social and economic well being of the electorate takes precedents over personal discriminatory attacks.

Finally, I just have to say this………………..may the best candidate win.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Saturday, January 29, 2011

KUGAN – JUSTICE DENIED

Remember KUGAN ANANTHAN? I hope Malaysians do not have short memory, for it was only in January 2009 that news of the death of Kugan in police custody hit front page news. I too did a posting on Kugan in January 29, 2009 titled ‘Will there be another Kugan’s death’.

Remember how the police initially denied the family’s request for a post mortem because they suspected Kugan died of police abuse? And remember too how the police did a ‘wayang kulit’ by calling in 24 witnesses and only decided to charge a lone police constable name Navindran? Now, would you believe that it was only Navindran, without a single accomplish, had caused Kugan’s death? And now Navindran the accuse is acquitted of a charge for murder by the PJ Session Court Judge on ground that the prosecution had failed to establish a prima facie case against the accused and did not call for Navindran’s defence.

Truly, this is the most laughable and intriguing murder trial and judgment that the entire world has ever witness. Are the Malaysian police and courts that stupid? I don’t think so. The case occurred right under the watch of the police and inside the police confinement. Yet they cannot identify the person(s) who committed the abuse among the many policemen on duty that day. Are all the policemen on duty that day blind, deaf and mute? No, I don’t think so.

And pardon me for saying this, that I have now lost absolute confidence in police investigations as well as the courts. I think the judge must have been influence by the Teoh Beng Hock’s famous inquest where the finding was that ‘Teoh did not kill himself nor was he murdered’. So how did Kugan die and who killed him shall remain unanswered?

I dare say now that the prosecution being the police themselves have a lot to answer; not now but in the HEREAFTER. If the investigators were Malays, and I presume they must be Muslims, let me say this, that if the investigation was done with the purpose of protecting the murderer(s), then you as investigators are also guilty of MURDER and you will have to answer this to Allah swt. You can protect, hide, cheat and whatever you want to do to deny justice for the families of the dead, but your injustices will be ‘severely rewarded’ in death, so fear the wrath of Allah swt now before it is to late.

And with the acquittal, now what do we have in our midst, if it is not a government salaried murderer on the loose. And if he has murdered once, one can rest be assured that he will not stop at murdering another.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Friday, January 28, 2011

ARE WE SELF DESTRUCTING OURSELVES?

As I read and watch what is happening around the world today, it strikes me if the end of the world is getting closer. Slowly but surely, governments around the world are falling apart. Once powerful state leaders that has all the wealth that they need, and the might of the military and police staunchly behind them are being chased out like rabbits fleeing to evade the ferocious pursuing hound dogs.

The global weather in recent times has not been good either. It has become unpredictable and erratic. Severe snow has hit most parts of Europe and the US causing closure of airports and leaving thousands of travelers stranded. Major flood unseen of in some countries has caused massive losses to property and lives. Wanton killings and murders still reign in the troubled states of Afghanistan, Iraq and even Pakistan. Life seemed too cheap where even the cost of a single bullet is much more valuable and expensive. Are these not signs of a trouble world? And are these not signs that the end of the world is near? And who had caused all this, if it is not us to blame.

Now, Tunisia is the most recent example of a crumbling state where the people had risen to oust the President, his wife and family members, just like what happened to the all powerful Shah of Iran. And now we see Egypt and Yemen with its powerful leaders going through a tumultuous period that will probably see the two countries crumble, and its leaders faced with an uncertain future.

What are the causes that have raised public anger in these countries? The answer is simple – it is a corrupt government, rising food costs that has made life unbearable for the people, nepotism, cronyism, rising unemployment and a host of other reasons that has turned the people into wretched beggars in their own country. The rich and powerful continues to lead an opulent lifestyle and enriching themselves, oblivious to the plight of the people.

Obviously for these countries, it is not ‘People’s First’; rather it is ‘The Leader’s First’ where looting by its leaders are seen as their ‘sovereign right’, rather than be a protector of the people’s rights.

With all the uncertainty prevailing around the world today, the question now is for us to look at ourselves and to see if a similar situation exists in our country; a country that is blessed with numerous resources and have never suffered a major political and economic upheaval that warrants a people’s revolt. The May 13, 1969 racial riots or the Reformasi Movement are insignificant events compared to the Tunisian people’s uprising and the events in Egypt and Yemen today.

Now what do we see happening in our country today? Firstly, the incidence of corruption at all levels of government has not simmered. Secondly, nepotism and cronyism still languishes in the corridors of power. Thirdly, escalating costs of living has made many households much poorer. And worse still, race and religious tolerance that has bonded Malaysians together since becoming an independent nation, is now being questioned.

Of late public statements by some of our leaders are worrying and a cause of concern to many. I do not wish to quote these statements, but leaders must understand that anything they say can be misconstrued by people. To use words like ‘we will defend ourselves to the last drop of our blood’ can mean that the entire might of the government to include the police and the military will ultimately be used. And if the military is used to quell a people’s protest, I will violently oppose to it.

Having said the above, I think there is enough issues and situations that can start a public protest in this country that can escalate into a people’s revolt, especially so when the peoples stomach are hungry. I am also particularly concern that the exposes in public domain of corruption and abuse by some of our top leaders and past leaders to enrich their families can cause public dissatisfaction and anger. Now, there is already a perception that all top leaders and their cronies are untouchable by the law. Immunity is for the powerful and those who opposes will be jumped at by MACC and the police, even for a paltry some of RM 2000 or for a few cow heads.

We have heard and seen it all and my only hope and that of my children and grandchildren is NOT to see this blessed country of ours crumble and become a pariah nation. We can avoid this if our leaders can come to their senses immediately; otherwise it will be the masses that will eventually take charge of this country.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

THE RMN COMMANDOS – OUR TRUE HEROES

The recent success of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) commandos against a band of Somali pirates on board a Malaysian cargo ship plying the Gulf of Eden is a notch in the many successes of the RMN. The success in overcoming the threat from Somali pirates upon cargo ships will now place the RMN commandos as equal to its Australian and Korean military commandos that had met with success in dealing with these Somali pirates. Unlike Australian and the RMN commandos, the Koreans had all the pirates killed. Obviously, they do not take the pirates alive and that differentiates the Korean method in dealing with pirates, from that of the Australian and the RMN. I am told that our Royal Malaysia Police adopts a similar method in dealing with kidnappers i.e. take no kidnappers alive.

Somali pirates have in recent time ruled the narrow passage strip of the Gulf of Eden. Many ships had been looted and some shipping companies even had to pay huge sums in order to get its ship and crew released. Private cargo ships are not known to be carrying weapons for self protection against pirates, which is the only known threat to the safety of ships plying the oceans.

Somali pirates have now distinguished themselves as to be the only active pirates
operating the ocean today. I cannot imagine how they could scale a ship of such great heights, and without being noticed by the ship’s crew. I think the pirate of Southern Philippines that has been causing menace to some coastal areas in Sabah is certainly no match against these Somali pirates. Contrary to the views of some, I would regard the pirate of Southern Philippines as not being in the same league with the Somali pirates. I would rather term the Filipino pirates as a band of raiders whose activities are carried on land with the purpose of robbing and kidnapping people for ransom. We have seen such activities happening in Sabah in the recent past.

Now, the RMN commandos heroism deserve public acknowledgement. But comparing the treatment given to Dato Lee Chong Wei by the mainstream media at him winning the Malaysian Open Badminton Championship recently, the heroism of our RMN commandos is but a pale shade compared to Dato Lee’s badminton success. Why is this so? Here we have the RMN commandos facing a life threatening situation, and saving a multi-million ringgit cargo from being stolen, as well as the ship’s crew from being kidnapped or killed. Is Dato Lee’s success more deserving to be acknowledged and given wider media coverage by the mainstream media than the success of the RMN commandos?

I view this as a sad episode in media reporting and the authorities (whoever that may be) ought to realize this fallacy. And unless this is realized soon, there will be no guarantee that soldiers will not view negatively our authorities misguided perception of what heroism is all about. To all soldiers, heroism is about the sacrifice of one’s life in the face danger, and not about winning a badminton match. Winning a badminton match is better referred to as champion; most certainly not as heroes.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Amendment to last posting

Please amend date at the start of the sentence to read 'December 23, 2010' and not 'December 23, 2011' Error is very much regreted.

WILL THE SSM BE BESTOWED TO ANOTHER MILITARY OFFICER?

On December 23, 2011, the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) saw the passing of a great Malaysian warrior and former Chief of Defence Forces Gen Tun Ibrahim Ismail, who at the age of 88 was the only surviving military officer to have served the second World War, the first Malayan Emergency, the communist resurgence and the racial of May 13, 1969, and the Malaysian/Indonesian Confrontation. Gen Tun Ibrahim’s charismatic and colourful military career ended with his retirement in 1977, to be replaced by Gen Tan Sri Sany Abdul Ghafar.

The late Gen Tun Ibrahim was not known for his tantrum that is usually associated with some military officers. I have never served under Gen Tun Ibrahim as a staff officer, but have met him on several occasions i.e. on his visits to units and formation headquarters. I did post an article about him titled “Gen Tun Ibrahim – The Malay Warrior” dated July 10, 2008, and among others, described my personal experience as a subaltern with him, while I was on operations in the lone military outpost at Bakalalan, Sarawak in 1967.

Many have noticed that Gen Tun Ibrahim is the first and only military officer to have been bestowed the Seri Setia Mahkota Malaysia (SSM) that carries the honorific title of Tun. Likewise, for the Royal Malaysia Police, the title was bestowed to former Inspector General of Police, Tun Hanif. And many may not have noticed that Gen Tun Ibrahim was awarded the title many years after he had retired from the military, unlike Tun Hanif who was awarded the title while he was still in service.

I am told that there is a restricted quota to the number of SSM’s that can be awarded by the government to deserving living recipients’ i.e to only 25. Now, with the passing of Gen Tun Ibrahim, the question that needs to be asked is whether the SSM be bestowed to another living and deserving senior military officer? I suppose there are several to elect from, and I believe many serving military officers and all those that have retired would want the SSM be awarded to another senior military officer. I do not know the criteria for the nomination for the award, but I do believe that the recipient has to be a person that had served the nation with distinction, and certainly not a figure that is likely to be mired in controversies.

If I were given the opportunity to name the most deserving senior military officer to be awarded the lofty SSM, I would certainly name Gen Tan Sri Sany bin Abdul Ghafar. For all who had known him and had served him would say this i.e. that he was the person who had a heart for the soldiers well being, and he stood firmly by it. Gen Tan Sri Sany too had a colourful and charismatic military career, and was distinguished as being the first serving military to be assigned as an Ambassador while in the rank of Major General.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Saturday, January 22, 2011

IBRAHIM ALI – WHAT’S UP?

I simply cannot understand what is in the mind of PERKASA boss Ibrahim Ali. He seems to be making lots of statement in defence of the Malays and including the sovereignty of Malay rulers. I do not mind if the Malays that he is referring to are Malaysians, but now he has gone overboard by trying to be the champion for Singapore Malays. He says that the Malays in Singapore are marginalized, oppressed and are too cowed to speak out.

My question to Ibrahim Ali is this……..who is he to be the champion of the Singapore Malays? No doubt they are Malays but they are Singapore Malays and not Malaysian Malays. The differentiation is obvious because Singaporeans are not Malaysians, and conversely Malaysians are not Singaporeans. And doesn’t he know that there are also Malays in South Africa, Australia and on some of the islands in the South Pacific? And does he not want to be their champion as well? If this is not understood by Ibrahim Ali, I suggest he just have to shut-up. And if he still wants to be a Singapore Malay champion, he had better go down to Singapore and hold a public rally; something that he is most capable of doing. Whatever he says here is not loud enough to be heard by the Malays in Singapore or anywhere else.

Clearly, I am against interfering with the affairs of people, and more so people of another country. I have many Malay friends in Singapore holding reasonable jobs and am rich enough to take them and their families on holidays to Malaysia. They do not talk about Singaporeans of other races, not because they are cowed to speak out as Ibrahim Ali has said, but because they are happy to be citizens of Singapore. If you walk around the country, you will not find a single beggar anywhere. Definitely, you do not see beggars from Myanmar, India or any other foreign beggars. You don’t even see homeless people sleeping under bridges or along the back lanes, but you see them all in Malaysia. Of course, you may get to see gays and prostitutes loitering around the streets at night.

Now Ibrahim Ali, let me get straight with you. There are many things that are wrong with us. Don’t you know that the Malays here are more disunited now than before? Have you not indentified the reasons for this disunity? Don’t you know that some of the Malays here are also being marginalized, oppressed and are cowed from speaking out? Just try to say something that is not to the liking of the authorities, and you know what you will get………ISA. I am not saying that there is absolutely no freedom of speech in this country, but the authorities seems to be very selective in deciding who should be taken in, and who not to. But in the case of Ibrahim Ali he seems to have some form of immunity. Wonder who is behind him?

My advice to Ibrahim Ali is to stop criticizing people of another country. Rather, you should start criticizing the much malice that you see happening in this country. You can start by holding a public rally to expose such malice, or talk about narrowing the Malay divide that has no end. Try also to bring all Malaysians together and stop being parochial.

We certainly need people like Ibrahim Ali for the right purpose, but not for what he is today.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Friday, January 21, 2011

WORDS THAT HURTS AND BEING GENTLE WINS HEARTS

“Kita yakin negeri ‘dipinjamkan’ sementara kepada pembangkang tempohnya akan berakhir tidak lama lagi, rakyat ingin sebuah kerajaan yang boleh memenuhi jangkaan dan harapan. Mereka tidak mahu kepada kerajaan yang hanya boleh berjanji” says PM Najib, as reported on page 14, Metro, Friday 14 January.

Having read the above, I think Najib should have been more careful with what he says. These are the kind of words and language that makes people angry, and I must admit that I am angry. These words smacks of arrogance, the very thing that Najib has all along told his party members to avoid doing. It appears that Najib clearly does not believe nor understand what he has been talking all along, and I have little choice now but to caution him, being someone much older than him. If these are really his words, and not the usual scripted one, than I should not blame anyone else except to blame him alone.

Najib ought to understand that his audience and readers are no longer the ordinary kampong folk who would just smile and say YES to everything that he says. They have better access to the media, including the alternative media in the form of their more educated children of these kampong folks. Doesn’t Najib know that there are some mothers and grandmothers who are computer literate today? And I must also add here that the mainstream media is of no help to him.

Please have some gentle words for the opposition led government of Kedah, Selangor, Kelantan and Penang. The leaders of these four states, I believe are trying their level best to govern in a way that will bring benefit to the people, regardless of the people’s political belief and affiliation. Do not just ridicule them for want of cheap popularity. Surely, Najib knows too that these state have done reasonably well in some areas, and haven’t he read the Auditor General’s report?

Please remember that it took the BN 50 years to make Malaysia what it is today (for bad or for worse). And if Najib expects the opposition led states to do what BN has done in five decades in the three years that the former are in power, then Najib is expecting the impossible.

My brotherly advice to Najib is to lower your tone a bit. Find areas that can strengthen goodwill between you and the leaders of the opposition led states. Cooperate in areas that can bring benefit to the people of the states, and by doing this, you are seen to be caring them regardless of their political belief and affiliation. You should know that it is the people that have chosen the opposition to lead the state government, and these are all Malaysians, like yourself. If you hurt just one of them, you are indirectly hurting the rest. Being gentle win hearts and it is people’s hearts that you should be after.

I will not stop being critical of Najib’s if he continues with such unwarranted statements. And I will certainly praise him if he sincerely seeks ‘peace’ with leaders of the opposition led states.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

NOW, IT IS BY-ELECTION GALORE

‘ENDLESS POLLS’…….that’s the headlines in Star, Friday 21 January. With the death of Merlimau state assemblyman Datuk Mohamed Hidhir Abu Hasan, the nation is set to see its 15th by-election, the largest number ever recorded in our nation’s history.

But wait……. that number does not stop there. Another by-election is on the cards with the declaration on Wednesday by the Selangor State Assembly Speaker that the Port Klang seat is vacant after its assemblyman Badrul Hisham Abdullah failed to attend assembly sitting for a continuous period of six months. Badrul Hisham was elected on a PKR ticket, but later left the party to join UMNO, and claims that he will be contesting the decision by the Selangor Speaker. He even vowed to attend the Monday 24 January emergency sitting of the State Assembly. This will be an interesting event to watch as Badrul Hisham has suddenly awaken, and is now well and alive to fight his place in the assembly at all costs.

16 by-elections in a period of 3 years since the 2008 March General Elections!!!!!!. I think this number is not only a record for Malaysia, but for the entire world. Guinness book of records should be interested in recording this ‘strange phenomena’. To me, this is a worrying trend, and I suppose with this number, SPRM must by now be the world’s most experience election governing body. This is truly Malaysia Boleh.
Here, I would like to share some proposals that may help reduce the number of by-elections in the future.

1. Future candidates (first timers only) should not be more than 40 years old.
2. Elected candidates should not serve more than two terms.
3. All candidates must be certified medically fit, to enable them to contest.
4. Assemblymen are compelled to undergo a thorough medical check-up once a year.
5. Those assemblymen that are found to be medically unfit (upon undergoing their yearly medical check) will not be allowed to contest upon completion of their term.

Other than the above, I would like to propose that future selection of eligible candidates must take serious cognizance of the fact that candidates must be free of all ‘worldly sins and vices’.

And if he is a Muslim, he must take a vow to uphold strictly to his belief as a Muslim, and to the teachings of the holy Quran. If he is found to have breached that vow, and he having gone through the due process of public investigation, he can be asked to vacate his position as an assemblyman.

I wonder if the above proposals are worthy of consideration, and does it make any sense to you?


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Thursday, January 20, 2011

GIFTS GALORE

It was reported that the Saudi Arabia king in 2009, gave US President Obama, the First Lady and daughter gifts worth US190,000. The gifts given to the First Lady itself in the form of jewelries and other valuable and exotic gifts was US132,000 and I suppose the remaining was for the US President and the daughter.

In the US, there is such a law that governs the ownership of some gifts given to the US President and their family members that has to be handed over to the government, and to be kept at the National Achieves. I have no idea what ‘some of the gifts’ here means, and I suppose gifts given to the US President and his family by visiting heads of states, or during the US President’s official state visit overseas is deemed as having to give it to the state, and the President merely acting as a representative of the nation. In other words, the gifts are not given to Obama and his family as individuals; rather as a representative of the nation they represent. This is quite logical because the post of the US President is ‘given’ to Obama by the people, and that post is merely for a maximum of terms.

I do not know whether such a law or a policy exist in Malaysia. We have a King and a Queen. We also have a Prime Minister and a First Lady (so they say). We have many Ministers and Deputy Ministers. We have top civil servants, military and police. All such people goes abroad on visits (by invitation or otherwise) and surely they are given gifts, though not the likes of what the Saudi Arabia king gave to President Obama and his family. But these are gifts, and are they personal gifts or one that is considered to belong to the state or department? Honestly, I do not know, but from what I know, and in the absence of any law or policy, I presume the recipients of such gifts would assume it to be theirs. This is not wrong, I suppose.

I am told that former PM Tun Dr. Mahathir received many gifts during his 22 years as PM, and I am not sure if any record is made to list the type of gifts. But I do know that Tun Dr. Mahathir has a show room built in Langkawi to exhibit some of the gifts that he had received. However, I do not know whether the exhibits are still his, or has it been handed over to the government. This is a noble way of saying that “I did receive the gifts on behalf of all Malaysians and I would like it to be seen and shared by all’.

Now our First Lady has been on an official visit to Oman and is presently in Bangladesh, with an entourage of ladies. Being classified as an official visit, I suppose it is an all paid visit. The itinerary looks like any other official state visits by our national leaders, where the First Lady made calls on state officials. It is therefore not to be a pleasure trip, but an official one. And I am quite sure there will be many gifts showered by the host to the First Lady and members of her entourage.

Now, if the First Lady and her entourage did receive gifts, and that the visit has an official status, how then would you like to regard such gifts? I’ll leave it to you for an answer.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

THE BATTLE OF TENANG BEGINS

The by-election is on for the Tenang state constituency slated for January 30, left vacant following the death of BN state assemblyman Dato Sulaiman Taha on January 17. The ‘battle’ will be between two opposing sexes i.e. BN is fielding Mohd Azahar Ibrahim 39, a former civil servant, and PR in Normala Sudirman 38, a former teacher. The nomination of the latter as a candidate was announced a few days ahead of the former. Both are young an aspiring candidates with many more years ahead of them in the business of politics.

Tenang, located in the parliamentary constitution of Labis, Johore is largely a rural area, and its constituents is made up of 47.5% Malays, 39% Chinese and 12% Indians, from a total of 14,753 voters. Tenang, like all other rural constituencies in Johore, has traditionally been a UMNO/BN stronghold. It was only during the 2008 General Election that the state was jolted with some constituencies falling into the hands of the opposition.

It would be interesting to see what the two candidates have to offer to its constituents during the week long campaigning, beginning January 22 until the eve of voting day. The BN having an edge in countless resources (party or otherwise) has the obvious head start. PR on the other hand would have to strive hard to at least reduce the majority win of the previous state assemblyman over its opponent, if the PR hopes to see its chances in the next General Elections. I do not know what sort of resources is available to Normala to take on the challenge.

Despite meager resources, Normala could still pose a strong challenge to Mohd Azahar for three strong reasons; firstly, Normala is a local of Tenang and with obvious grass root support. Secondly, she being a teacher would have a strong appeal to the women folks, and being women, they would naturally have a soft spot in supporting their own kind. Thirdly, the role of her husband who is also a teacher in getting voters sympathy support for Normala, should not be discounted. The sudden decision taken by the state education authorities to post out Normal’s husband to Johore Baru, but was later withdrawn, was discriminatory on the part of the authorities. The reason given was that ‘he was not able to control the wife’ is absolute nonsense. How on earth could the education authorities come out with such a reason for the reassignment of Normala’s husband? Little wonder there has been several controversies in the past caused by teachers in Johore. Even the Johore state education director is not free of controversy. My advice to such teachers is that if they want to be involved in politics, please resign; and just follow the course taken by Normala.

As I have alluded above, Mohd Azahar will get all the resources he wants to win this by-election. That is no problem, and a start has already been announced by PM Najib himself that an allocation of RM 1 billion (not a million) is available to FELDA. I do not know where that allocation is coming from, but I suppose FELDA is still financially capable to allocate such a huge amount. But my question is…..why was the announcement made now and for what? Let’s hope that it not going to build another 100storey building in Tenang.

I do not wish to predict the winner of this by-election for I am no ‘tukang tilik’. My only hope is that whoever wins please do not just ignore the plight of the rural folks of Tenang for they truly need your care. And worse still, to abandon them upon winning, and to only appear at the end of your term is a grevious sin.

Finally, best of luck to Mohd Azhar Ibrahim and Normala Sudirman, and my the best win.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

TUNISIA – LESSONS TO BE LEARNT

Let Malaysians be warn that what happened to the Tunisian President Zine El-Adidine Ben Ali, could happen to any other country, when the leader of the state is overcome by greed and cares little for his subjects, and the wife is too immerse in leading an opulent lifestyle that is likened to Philippine’s Imelda Marcos. We have seen far too many similar incidents in the past, and some leaders today still have not learnt that being powerful (even with military backing) and excessive wealth, they can be toppled like a deck of cards, by the very people that had voted them in.

What led to President Ben Ali being ousted is his sheer ignorance of the fact that his fate lies with the people. Even the mightiest military power that is protecting him cannot diffuse the people’s anger that resembles a raging burning forest, where everything along its path is smoldered to the grounds.

Closer to home, we witnessed the downfall of the all powerful Philippines dictator Ferdinand Marcos, and his sad demise while in exile in a foreign land. We also saw the powerful Shah Riza Pahlavi of Iran who despite having the mightiest military force in the region and with US backing, was forced to go into exile by a people’s revolution led by just a Mullah, where Shah later died a stateless person.

Now, will we ever see a likening of people’s power in this country today? Are we not being enlightened with stories of abuse by those in power i.e. by irresponsible politicians and government officials alike? Gathering thousands as a show of solidarity over some issues in this country is not too difficult. Demonstrations held in the past have been mild though, when compared to those held in Thailand or even Indonesia. Violent protest on the scale of what was seen in Thailand recently has not taken place in this country. And our leaders ought not to be too complacent about it.

I read so much about the abuses of the Sarawak Chief Minister and his crave for personal wealth. If the reports are true, he needs to rethink and take quick remedial actions to placate the people of Sarawak. The same can also be said of Sabah’s Chief Minister who is said to have amassed a lot of wealth. They ought to realize sooner that power is not forever theirs. It will be relieved off them at some point in time, and what former Selangor Menteri Besar Khir Toyo is going through now, is an example to ponder. Clearly, Khir Toyo has lost virtually everything i.e. pride, respect, honor and his integrity is being severely questioned. Now, only the court can save him his lost pride, respect and honor.

Today, Malaysians are faced with rising costs that do not seem to level off. It gets steeper by the day. My wife tells me that with RM100 will get her nothing at the market. Every bit of item is pricy, and I just wonder how my kampong folks are keeping up with their meager income. They too have a family to feed, and I do not think they could afford a RM100 in a single market outing.

I do not wish to dwell on the many faceted issues affecting ordinary Malaysians today. It is enough for me to just touch on one simple ‘bread and butter’ issue as I have alluded above, for I believe that people’s anger will peak when their stomach is empty. We may not see a revolution happening in this country, but we will certainly see a riotous people out to demand that they and their families be fed.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

PROXY VOTING – AM I HEARING THE RIGHT THING!

‘Malaysian’, a viewer to this blog has drawn me to a proposal, among many other proposals by the Election Commission (EC), to allow a proxy voter to vote during a General Election. Like many like-minded Malaysians (if I may be term as one), I detest vehemently to such a proposal. I just could not believe that the EC could ever think of such a proposal, as it will only make a mockery out of the entire voting process. I can only say this,that the level of ingenuity of ideas of the EC seems all muddled up and smacks of plain stupidity. Or is the EC merely testing the voter’s intelligence, knowing too well that voters today are more inform of their voting rights, than viewed previously?

Except for former Penang Chief Minister Dr Koh SK, I have not heard of any other leaders’ state their position with regards to this proposal. Of course, critics of this proposal from the alternative media are aplenty.

This proposal is a reflection of what Malaysia Boleh can do to all of us. It either makes one look stupid, or a little cleaver. And if I were to tell my US or British friend about it, they are certain to scoff it as unthinkable and sheer stupidity. I think, if it were in India or Pakistan, there would surely be a nationwide people’s protest against the EC.

All along, we were told that our vote is a secret, and the decision to cast that single vote on a candidate of choice, lies in the voter and no one else. And of all things, how can one ensure that the proxy votes for the right candidate, or willfully cast a spoilt vote?

My brotherly advice to the EC is to stop propagating this idea before it gets too hot to handle. And if the EC wants an idea from me, I would just ask them to think about doing away with postal voting. It only encourages one to cheat.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Thursday, January 13, 2011

FALLEN FROM GRACE

Even before the trial of Tun Ling Leong Sik over the PKFZ fiasco could begin in earnest, we now hear that his once cabinet buddy Tan Sri Samy Vellu will likely be the next to follow him to the courts. If the allegation against Tun Ling involves the loss of billions in public fund, Tan Sri Samy allegation for the misappropriation of party fund in the MIED affairs, is but a fraction of PKFZ loses. Interestingly, the allegation against these two former ministers and party leader, and their impending court appearance is seen by some as retribution for the abuses that both may have done during their long period in political power. I do not know if there will be more allegation and charges, but I think this single allegation itself is enough to make them restive, and hopefully remorseful for the rest of their life.

Honestly, I do not have any sympathy for person(s) who have committed any form of abuse or misdeeds while in power. My only hope is that they be given a fair trial, and if indeed the allegation against them is found to be true, they ought to be punished severely. Honorific titles before their names and their past service to the nation should not influence judgment; rather judgment meted should be one that serves as a deterrent for others. The fall from grace with such honorific titles before their names, is most shameful for these two former national leaders.

Another leader to have fallen from grace is former Selangor state Menteri Besar Khir Toyo. It surprised me most to know that Dato Shamsuddin; a person that I met a few months ago, is complicit in the charges against Khir Toyo. Surely, it doesn’t make any business sense for Dato Shamsuddin to have offered Khir Toyo the sale of a valued property for half the price that the former had purchased. And despite Khir Toyo’s persistent denial that he has done no wrong in the property acquisition, and that it was his right to purchase the property at whatever price offered by the seller, such an unusual deal however raises more suspicion than truth. I however give credit to Khir Toyo for his decision to quit his position as the opposition leader in the state legislative assembly and to be relieved off all party post, pending the settlement of his court case.

Now, Dato Rais Yatim may be feeling a sense of relieve over the latest revelation in the Indonesian media that he did not commit rape of his maid as widely alleged. The maid herself has not made an appearance to deny the allegation. However, I believe this allegation has somewhat marred Dato Rais Yatim’s personality, in an otherwise controversial free and an outstanding politician that he is said to be. I am not at all surprise that this case may take center stage in the campaign during the up-coming by-election in Tenang, Johore.

And are we not surprised that the Chua Soi Lek sexual escapade in a hotel in Muar some years ago has resurfaced in Tenang? I suppose this are the hazards that our politicians have to bear, for being a politician as their preferred vocation.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Monday, January 10, 2011

THE ARMY – BACK ON TRACK

I believe the Army is now in good hands. This is the impression I get from my conversation with a number of serving army officers whom I met recently. They say that the army leadership is now more focus in its primary duties of defence and security. Issues relating to the welfare and well being of soldiers and their families are being given due attention, especially the provision of better housing for the families. Gone are the days when soldiers, particularly those working in Kuala Lumpur and in large towns, have to stay in rented homes that sometimes resemble those of some Romanian gypsies?

Back in the early days, I as a young duty officer would be asked to visit the homes of our soldiers that are living in rented homes, and I sometimes wonder why have they to live in such dilapidated homes and in such unhealthy surroundings, despite them having to sacrifice their lives for the country. For those who served throughout the period of the 60’s and 70’s would know what I mean.

There is also very little that I hear now of the corrupt practices among officers that have been so rampant in the past, and I attribute this to the realization among the current leadership that this disgraceful act has to stop. I deem those who were involved in corrupt practices in the past, regardless of the magnitude, is so lucky not be caught. Let me remind those who still have the urge to indulge themselves in corrupt practice to be weary of their dastardly acts. There is nothing more disgraceful than to be apprehended for the act, and be shamed for life.

I know personally most of the top echelon leaders of the army today, and I think they are out to cast off the poor image of the army, that has been caused by some leaders of the past. I say this with utmost sincerity, and I am glad that some have even vowed to put back the army to its glorious past. Religious awareness too is also given serious attention by some commands.

It is heartening to hear from a lot of officers that the ‘screaming and yelling’ is over. There is greater openness and discourse between superiors and subordinates. I am also told that officers are now forbidden to take off for a game of golf during working hours, and at no time will they be seen playing with contractors. This is something that should have been enforced many years ago. My only hope is that such a ruling will remain in force forever.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Friday, January 7, 2011

ARE WE TO SEE MORE CONTROVERSIES THIS YEAR?

In the true spirit of ‘Rakyat Di Dahulukan’, PM Najib is expected to announce the setting up of the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCOI), following the disputable open verdict by the coroner following the inquest into the death of Teoh Beng Hock (TBH) in June last year, while in the custody of MACC.

I just could not believe that a learned coroner after a long and arduous trial, and having heard from numerous witnesses and experts (including foreign ones) could not pass a verdict to determine as to what cause the death of TBH. A blogger friend (rights2write) had in jest written that TBH might have been “struck by a lightning, and was thrown out of the window”. In the absence of truth, I would tend to believe the blogger. I suppose the coroner just had too much to swallow, and was not is the correct frame of mind to make the right verdict; hence the open verdict.

I do not know what good it is to convene the RCOI. We had seen one before i.e. the Lingam case and the outcome of the RCOI just simply fizzles out. Now, we hear Minister in PM Department Nazri Aziz had said that “Teoh’s family could file civil suit against MACC next”. Are we to believe that this time, the court can reach a verdict that can truly satisfy Teoh’s family?

If I were to believe in what the former investigating officer SAC Zain Ibrahim had written about AG Gani Patail and former IGP Musa Hassan dubious acts of fabricating evidence to prosecute Anuar Ibrahim in his first sodomy case, then I can positively say that filing a civil suit against MACC is a worthless case, unless the courts and the police investigators can prove otherwise. There have been far too many unresolved cases of death in police custody, without seeing anyone prosecuted.

While the controversy over the open verdict was still raging hot, a group calling themselves Gagasan Anti-Penyelewengan Selangor GAPS and PERKASA held a demonstration in front of the State Secretariat Building, over the reluctance of the State Government to accept the appointment of the new State Secretary. They accuse Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim has betrayed the Sultan and demanded that the Menteri Besar resign. Am I not surprised that there were no water cannons or hooded police personals to disperse the demonstrators. I suppose they had a police permit to protest. How strange!!!!!!!

I do not know where these demonstrators were during the 1993 Constitutional Crisis when the government and its leaders were out to expose the excesses of the royalties. I clearly remembered news reports on TV showing the palatial homes of a particular ruler in Port Dickson. Other rulers too were not spared. But then, there were no GAPS, PERKASA or other Malay groups screaming ‘DERHAKA’. Why then do these groups decides to protest now, just because the Menteri Besar does not agree to the nomination of the new State Secretary, and the Sultan being made to abide a proposal by an agency of the federal government. Wasn’t it proper that the Sultan should listen to the advice of his Menteri Besar above others? And I think the actions of some who openly criticized the rulers then, were more serious and smacks of insults to our royalties.

This is just the beginning of the New Year, and I do not know what other controversies will crop up from now on. This makes me restless, and I dream of a day when this country is govern by level headed leaders. Wonder if that dream will ever be fulfilled.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Thursday, January 6, 2011

NEWS OF THE DAY

Dr. Rais Yatim (DRY) has come out strongly to refute an allegation that he was involved in the rape incident of a maid in 2007. The story was exposed by Wikileak some two weeks ago, and implicating former PM Tun Abdullah Badawi as well, who was said to have kept the storey under wraps.

The question that many had asked is why did DRY remained silent when the story was leaked out? Why a long wait to deny the allegation, and to allow people to make all kinds of statements? If indeed DRY is innocent, he should have come out with a statement of denial at that very instant and press charges against those who made the first exposure i.e. Wikileak itself. I now will have to pacify my kampong folks at Petaling and Gagu, Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan that all the fuss about this leak is not true after all.

DRY should remember that the kampong folks are his voters, and I think they will not tolerate such nonsense coming from their ‘revered child’. I could still remember what my late father said of DRY, that “he is just an ordinary school teacher who self taught himself to become a Menteri Besar”. DRY should have known how the kampong folks reacted against him when he quit UMNO, and joined Semangat 46 around the late 80’s. I personally do not expect DRY to be involved in such a disgraceful act, for I see him as one of the most learned Minister within the Najib administration.

Getting back to Selangor, the verdict is out on the death of Teoh Beng Hock i.e. “Coroner rules out suicide and homicide” that left many to question…………….. “then, how did he die?”. An open verdict like this does not solve the mysteries surrounding the death, but will only serve as precedence to similar cases in the future. I suppose this is not the end of the case after 18 months long inquest, with renewed calls for a royal commission of inquiry seemingly gets louder.
Questions are also being raised as to why have the police investigation not being able to find conclusive evidence to the cause of death, despite obvious marks found around the neck of Teoh, and “finger drag marks on the window as indicative of a person resisting a fall”?

Honestly, I find the verdict puzzling that is sure to erode further public mistrust and battered perception of both the judiciary and the police.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

AN ASSOCIATION OF SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES

I have long harbored the idea of forming an association comprising of sons and daughters of members of the Malaysian Armed Forces; both retired and serving. It all started some time ago when I met a group of young ladies having their evening tea together at KLCC; one of whom is the daughter of an Army colleague of mine. I greeted her and she then introduced me to all her friends who to my surprise are all daughters of officers of the Malaysian Armed Forces. All of them are doing well in the career, and this triggered the idea that why can’t these young people get together to form a larger association. I would like to look at the example of ANAK, a highly successful association formed by children of FELDA settlers.

ANAK is actively involved in voicing the plight of all FELDA settlers, in particular issues that affect the management of all FELDA schemes throughout the country. Whilst we recognize that FELDA was created to provide opportunities for Bumiputra’s participation in the plantation industry, it is now saddled with a number of problems caused primarily by gross mismanagement, abuses and possibly corruption by unscrupulous FELDA officials that have gone unnoticed for so long. Recently, FELDA settlers had brought cases of mismanagement by FELDA officials to the courts, resulting in the courts awarding large monetary compensation to the settlers. I believe new cases will emerge in the not too distant future that will pose a challenge for the newly minted FELDA’s Chairman.

I have been talking to a number of people whose fathers have served the Malaysian Armed Forces. I found that many are doing well in their career, and are holding high positions both in the public and in the private sector. I am not suggesting that this association (should it be formed) be involved in politics, but rather they be free from the abuses of politics, just like their fathers were when serving the Armed Forces.

What I need is someone who is committed and acceptable to the idea of forming such an association, in the belief that they being sons and daughters of members of the Armed Force can play a meaningful and productive role in society. In other words, this association serves to continue the sacrifices and contributions made by all servicemen towards society and the nation.

As I have indicated above, this association must remain apolitical, and is focused in creating an establish network of friends of the Armed Forces and promoting good values. Of course, the association has to define its purpose and objectives, and this can only be done through some brainstorming sessions by some protem members. Perforce, this association has to be led by a son or daughter of a member of the Armed Forces (serving or otherwise), and whose members are exclusively sons and daughters of members of the Armed Forces.

I wish not to say more, and my only hope is to get some responses from my readers to know whether this proposition on the creation of an association of sons and daughters of members of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ASDAF) is a viable proposition or otherwise.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Monday, January 3, 2011

WILL SEKOLAH MENENGAH SAINS MIRI, BAKAM, SARAWAK GET AIR CONDITION CABINS?

Would you believe that around late last year, the Sarawak State Education Department has issued an order for Sekolah Menengah (SM) Sains Miri,Bakam Sarawak to be closed; a school of approximately 400 students, and the students transferred to SMK Tinjar, Lapok, Sarawak, which is situated 120 km away? Do you know the reason for the closure of the school and the stupidity of having 400 students dislocated 120km away? Does the State Education Department or for that matter, the Ministry of Education not know the enormous logistical and administrative inconveniences of having 400 new students enrolled into the new school, that may or may not be ready to accept a large enrollment of new students? And what about the resultant inconvenience to be suffered by the students themselves?

Upon reading more of the issue, I realized that the reason for the proposed relocation of students was that some of the classes at SM Sains Miri were found unsuitable and unsafe to be used as classrooms. I guess the classes are in a dilapidated state, and this may be because there was no form of preventive maintenance taken on the classrooms over a protracted period of time. This may cause the classrooms to be left to sheer neglect, and even if the school had requested for funds for maintenance, I suspect the request may have been turned down. And if this assumption of mine is true, then I would like to suggest that the Sarawak State Director of Education resigns immediately. I think he no longer has any more reason to remain the Director.

After much protestation by the school’s Parents Teachers Association and a meeting held with the Education Ministry’s Director General, it was decided that the school be reopened, and temporary classes be hastily constructed, including to use of cabins. This is laughable, and can someone tell me whether cabin makes suitable classrooms? And this reminds me of the former Armed Forces Academy (now known as Universiti Pertahanan Malaysia) where they too had cabins as temporary classrooms, but these are air conditioned cabins. Is the Sarawak Education Department thinking of fixing air condition to the cabins as well?

I suspect that there are similar and larger issues affecting schools in Sarawak, especially those that are in the interior. I do not know if the Minister of Education has ever visited schools in the interior, say in places like Julau, Song, Katibas, Bakalalan, Bario or even Serian. I had seen a number of schools in interior Sarawak during my days in the Army, and I think the conditions of the schools are no better today.

My bit of advice to the Education Minister is that with the General Elections looming, please do make your calls to these isolated schools in the interior of Sabah and Sarawak. You will be surprised that these schools are in dire need of help. After all, it is your responsibility to ensure that students who are the country’s future, are afforded the best possible education, regardless of where and who they are.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

Sunday, January 2, 2011

DERHAKA DAN PENDERHAKA

As a child, I was constantly reminded by my mother these words, “jangan sekali kali menderhaka kepada mak kerana surga itu di bawah tapak kaki mak”. And when accompanying my father for his weekly religious classes, I quite often hear Tuan Guru Hj. Mohd Noh Marhakim (he passed away in the 50’s) reminds his congregation the same words that my mother had said to me i.e. “jangan sekali kali melakukan sesuatu yang boleh melukai hati ibu dan ayah kita kerana itu satu penderhakaan yang amat di murkai oleh Allah SWT”. This word ‘derhaka’ has remained in my mind ever since, that I should never in my life “menderhaka” to any one of my parents, and that word only applies to both my parents.

Now I hear that word ‘derhaka’ is being used so blatantly by politicians in the ‘standoff’ between the Selangor state government and the palace over the appointment of the new State Secretary.

Noh Omar is reported to have said that the Selangor state government’s action to not accept Khusrin as the State Secretary is likened to ‘derhaka’ to the wishes of the Sultan, and not to challenge the authority of the Sultan. I know that that word will now be used to condemn the action of the Selangor state government by the very same people who were themselves involved in ridiculing and subverting the position of the royalties in the 90’s. I do not wish to elaborate this any further as this well documented in our history.

I do not know how the Selangor state government will react to the swearing in of Khusrin as the newly appointed State Secretary by the Sultan this Sunday 9th January. And I do not know if Khusrin will ever take and subscribe the oath of secrecy in the presence of the Menteri Besar, as prescribed in Article 52 (4) of the Selangor State Constitution. Or will the swearing in by the Sultan be taken to mean that it is also in conformity with the aforesaid Article? I just wonder if ever there was precedence in Selangor of a similar incidence like this. Certainly not, after the constitutional crisis of the 90’s.

From my reading of the above issue, I would go along with some who have suggested that the best recourse is to take this case to the courts. Knowing the courts these days may not favour anything that the opposition does, as demonstrated in the Perak case, it is to me the only viable option left for Khalid Ibrahim’s government. It does not really matter if Khalid Ibrahim loses his case, but believing in the course of justice is better than going to the streets. Have faith that justice will prevail, and the people that have voted the state government knows their rights too.

Finally, to those who use freely the word ‘derhaka’, I say to them that that word only applies to my parents and to the all mighty Allah SWT, and nobody else. I would rather use the word “TAAT” to the rest.



CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION