SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDIL FITRI

Menjelang Syawal yang akan kita tempuhi tidak beberapa masa lagi, kami sekeluarga ingin mengucapkan Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, Maaf Zahir Batin kepada semua pembaca blog ini yang saya kasihi.

Saya terutamanya, dalam beberapa artikal saya mungkin telah menyinggung perasaan beberapa pembaca saya, dan dengan itu saya dengan rendah diri menyusun jari mohon ribuan maaf sekira nya ada diantara membaca yang telah tersinggung kerana artikal tersebut. Saya tidak berniat untuk menyinggung perasaan sesiapa sekali pun, malahan menulis dari hati ikhlas saya bahawa menegur itu adalah satu kebaikan dan tanggungjawab, dan bukan untuk memburuk buruk atau mencerca sesiapa sekali pun.

Saya turut juga memohon kehadarat Illahi agar saya diberi kekuatan dan ingatan yang subur untuk terus menulis dalam hasrat saya menentangi korupsi dikhalangan masyarakat kita, terutamanya dikhalangan bangsa Melayu kita.

Sekian, salam sejahtera.

MUFTIS CAN AND MUST PLAY A POSITIVE ROLE IN POLITICS

Perak Mufti Dato Seri Harussani Zakaria who has been seen by the Malays as an ‘UMNO Mufti’ has made some startling revelation about his association with the country’s top political leaders that runs contrary to what others thought and saw of him previously.

During a religious forum organized by Sinar Harapan earlier this week, he said that he cautioned then PM Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamed to be careful about accusing Anuar Ibrahim, then Deputy PM of sodomy without sufficient evidence. This case is history now and the court had overturned the charges of sodomy against Anuar Ibrahim only after Anuar Ibrahim had served eight years of prison term and upon Tun Dr. Mahathir’s resignation as PM. Harussani further revealed that Tun Dr. Mahathir had refused to heed his advise concerning Anuar Ibrahim and alleged that Tun’s staffs had restrained him from meeting Tun.

Harussani went further to say that he also advised PM Najib that his administration is weak, corrupt and is not trustworthy (tidak amanah); reasons that caused the Malays to be divided till this very day. These are serious allegations that can easily alienate the Malays, especially the rural Malays away from UMNO. Corruption and untrustworthy leaders are acts unacceptable to Islam that can influence the religiously bias rural Malays to disassociate themselves from such like leaders. And now having to be revealed by a mufti can be of serious consequence for the UMNO’s leadership.

The question now is how will the UMNO leadership react to these indefensible allegations and to remedy the badly dented image of the party from being alienated further. If UMNO remains in denial mode and think that Harussani words has little impact on the rural Malay support for the party, I dare say that UMNO will be in deep trouble. I can say with confidence that the urban Malay support for UMNO has long dwindled since the reformasi movement of 1998, and with PAS actively engaging both the urban and rural Malays, UMNO’s future seems bleak. I am beginning to see PAS being the alternative to UMNO, and definitely PAS young leaders today are no longer seen as religious bigots, but a voice of reason, moderate and corrupt free individuals that engage the people with reasonable ease. PAS today has even been accepted by the non Malays and this was clearly seen during the many by-elections, which hitherto was an outcast to the non Malays. The acceptance of PAS by DAP is a case in point.

I believe the Mufti’s can and should play an active role in the politics of the country, for I am told that there is no conflict or contradiction whatsoever between religion and politics. Muftis can no longer afford to sit back and be the ‘yes man’ to their governments. We have seen how governments silence their Muftis if they do not toe the line of the state leaders. How could a Mufti remain silent now if what they see happening in front of their eyes is unjust and in serious violation to the teachings of Islam? I know the Muftis are fully aware of the corruption that is going on, the lies and deceit that languishes, perpetrated by those in power. UMNO leaders cannot deny this for it is partly them that have caused the Muftis to speak out now; and appropriately so.

The willingness of the Muftis to speak out critically against the abuses by the powers that be hopefully will not be merely a charade. Rather, it is but the beginning of a serious effort by these religious groups to commit themselves directly and constructively in the politics and well being of the country, which I believe they can play an influential and positive role.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

IT IS WISER NOT TO TALK ON SOMETHING THAT YOU DO NOT KNOW

Deputy Minister of Plantation, Industries and Commodities Datuk Hamzah Zainuddin was reported to have remarked that he was curious to know what was the Bar Council’s stand on Anuar Ibrahim decision to give his testimony from the dock, thus denying the prosecution to cross examined Anuar Ibrahim in the ongoing sodomy trial.

I am not a lawyer but I am not that stupid too, not to understand what the three options given to Anuar Ibrahim by the trial judge Datuk Zabidin Mohd Diah implies. Of the three options (I suggest Datuk Hamzah Zainuddin finds out what the three options are himself), Anuar Ibrahim choose to give his testimony from the dock, and by electing this option, Anuar Ibrahim will not be subject to be cross examined by the prosecution team. Since there were three options given, the onus to elect either one of the option lies with Anuar Ibrahim himself, and not with the Bar Council or any particular UMNO lawyer or Hamzah Zainuddin himself. What sort of remark coming from a deputy minister is mind boggling.

Now you see the kind of shallow mindset aka dummies some people are, and worse still of a deputy minister in not wanting to understand the privileges that an accused person has even during a trial. It was the trial judge himself that allowed the options and certainly he would not have wronged Anuar Ibrahim for having elect to give his testimony from the dock. So why is Hamzah Zainuddin questioning Anuar Ibrahim rights to the option? Why not question the judge himself if he (Hamzah) thinks he is smarter than the judge and the judge is wrong? Was Hamzah Zainuddin suggesting that Anuar Ibrahim should give his testimony from the witness stand, thus enabling the prosecuting team to cross examine the latter? This is a rather silly thought where even a first year law student would have understood the difference.

And not having had enough of what was said by Hamzah Zainuddin, comes our Puteri UMNO Chief Rosnah who said that Anuar Ibrahim should have the courage to give his testimony from the witness stand, and be subjected to a cross examination. What silly talk is this? Like her UMNO counterpart Hamzah Zainuddin, if she does not have inkling as to the legal process and rights of the accuse, it is better that she remains mute. And to both of them, I say this…………..that it is wiser not to talk on something that you do not know; least you will not be looked at like a fool.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

ANOTHER COMMENT FROM A RETIRED SENIOR ARMY OFFICER

I would like to share with my readers a comment from a senior colleague of mine regarding the highly ‘controversial statement’ made by the Chief of Defence Forces recently, concerning the revelation made by four ex-servicemen on postal voting that they claimed were mired in abuses. Let it be known that whatever comments made by my colleague and I in this posting is not intended to belittle or to ridicule the Generals of the AF. It is merely a voice to remind the AF leadership that the retirees are still mindful of what goes on in the AF today, and that the AF remains true to their avowed profession i.e. as defenders of the nation.

LT KOL IDRIS BIN HASSAN (Retired) wrote:

I refer to “The army is apolitical” (The Star, Aug 19) with Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Zulkifeli Mohd Zain refuting claims by four ex-soldiers that they were ordered to cast postal votes for other officers and their wives while they were in service. The General went on to rebuke the public by saying “people need to show their support for the army’s role in the country, and asking, “How can we be loyal to you when you are disloyal to us?”

With due respect, the CDF needs to be reminded that we as a nation were able to successfully defeat the Japanese during World War 2 when they occupied our country, repel the enemy forces during the Indonesian Confrontation, and rout the communist terrorist during the Emergency largely because the rakyat supported the army by giving vital information on enemy movements.

Many joined vigilante corps like the Home Guard and fought alongside the army. Thousands of them lost their lives in reprisal action by the enemy. The public has always supported, and will continue to support the army to protect our beloved homeland. To say the public is disloyal is perhaps not the best choice of words.

The army is the combatant arm of the nation. Its duty is to defend the country and the way of life the nation has chosen for itself. The army’s foremost duty is loyalty to King and country and of obedience to the orders of the government of the day. It remains a political and owes no allegiance whatsoever to any political party. It is for this very reason that soldiers are required to abstain from taking part in politics, directly or indirectly. The intention is to keep the army from conflicting currents so that it may retain the team spirit which is so vital for its success.

The restrictions, however do not bar soldiers from holding opinions on matter that concern them as citizens, but from expressing such as are likely to jeopardize the trust the nation and the people have placed in them. Our Generals too are at times to be blame when the impartiality of our army is questioned.

I remember reading in an English language tabloid, “Don’t bite the hand that feeds you”, RMAF Chief tells personnel. The action of the outgoing RMAF Chief was most inappropriate when he said that “those who wear the uniform by right should vote for the existing government, as we have benefitted from the present administration”.

The General was probably trying to score some brownie points in the hope of earning a lucrative appointment in retirement which is usually the case. Sadly, such statements from a very senior officer and a service chief at that do not augur well for the impartiality of the army.

At this level, the CDF is not only a soldier but also a diplomat; he should not display combatant body language when appearing on national TV. This is also no longer a time when a mere denial would suffice and the problem would go away. Perhaps the CDF needs to check the present system of postal voting in all military establishments and suggest changes if necessary.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

KHIR TOYO BID FORGIVENESS THIS HARI RAYA

I believe most of you would have read former Selangor MB Khir Toyo’s latest posting in his blog dated August 23, 2011 titled ‘Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir Batin dan Kisah 3 Menteri’. I am an ardent follower of the blog simply because Khir Toyo was the MB of my state; the most develop state in the country. And having lost the state to the PR during the 2008 GE was Khir Toyo’s greatest sin to the BN government, and his subsequent fall from grace was inevitable.

Khir Toyo’s posting centered on two issues i.e. firstly, to seek forgiveness from all those that he may have caused them hurt and displeasure in the past and secondly, to express disdain at some quarters (he says some ministers) at suggesting that the only way for UMNO to win back Selangor is to ensure that he goes to jail. Well, the second issue does not surprise me at all, because this has been UMNO’s embedded culture of back stabbing, deceit and defaming others, especially among power seekers, apple polishers and aspirants to be rich and famous. Someone did write to say that vying the post of a Ketua Bahagian is a sure route to power and richness, and it is for this very reason that the Ketua Bahagian post is the most hotly contested during the party election. Even a Ketua Cawangan has its ‘goodies’. And one sure needs a lot of money to throw around to get nominated.

Khir Toyo alleged that there are three ministers involved in suggesting that the way to win back Selangor is to incarcerate him, but short of naming them. This is a serious allegation that can destroy forever UMNO’s chances of winning back Selangor. Do not underrate Khir Toyo’s support, even if that support is dwindling. Khir Toyo’s detractors ought to know that UMNO’s secrets are in the hands of Khir Toyo, and surely PM Najib being the Information Chief for Selangor would not want secrets (good or bad) to be revealed at this critical moment and time when the GE is near.

Even before Khir Toyo made such an allegation, and me being a Selangorean, I quite often hear the rumbling that goes on within UMNO Selangor. It is obvious now that these rumblings have weakened UMNO Selangor that has now left the state without a leader of substance and credibility. If one were to say that UMNO Selangor has Agriculture Minister Nor Omar as a suitable choice to replace Khir Toyo, I say that it is wrong. I personally see that this minister has little substance in him, and I do not think Khir Toyo would want him to manage the state. It is obvious to me too that by virtue of PM Najib having to take upon himself to manage the affairs of UMNO Selangor is sufficient proof that the state is devoid of a leader of substance. And this only leaves me to say that UMNO Selangor chances of winning back the state in the next GE is but a dream.

As a watcher of UMNO politics in the state, I personally think that there ought to be a complete change of faces within UMNO Selangor leadership, if the party is to survive. The party can no longer have teachers, gate keepers and petty traders to lead the charge in Selangor. It has to have professionals and learned individuals that are fairly young and are incorruptible to be a serious challenge to PR. The question now is whether UMNO Selangor in its current form can take on such a challenge? My honest answer is simply no, and I leave it to my readers to reason why.

And to Khir Toyo, my friendly advice to him is this…………….if you are convince in upholding the truth for the sake of your party, do not have any fear to speak out. And if you are damn sure who the three ministers that you mentioned are out to incarcerate you, please name them for if you don’t, these are the people who will continue to be the ‘duri dalam daging’ that will finally see the demise of UMNO Selangor.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

SHAHRIZAT ABD JALIL TO THE RESCUE

The Star Online, August 23, 2011 reports of a housewife, Leow Le Peng who resides in Klang, Selangor had to stop two of her children from attending school out of sheer poverty. The family became impoverish since Leow’ husband suffered a neurological disease several months ago, and was forced to quit his job. The burden to fend for the family now lies with Leow and her two school going children who collect discarded boxes, plastic bottles and aluminum cans to be recycled and sold for a living.

I suppose, upon being told of Leow’s predicament, Community Development Minister Shahrizat Abd Jalil decided to visit the impoverish family (with pressmen included in her entourage) to present goodies, and including measures to help pay for Leow’s husband medical bills, and to provide financial assistance for Leow’s two school going children.

While I applaud Shahrizat’s quick response to help Leow and her family off their economic woes, I somehow do not agree with her remarks that the Selangor state government (just because the state is a PR controlled state) had failed to identify such families in dire straits.

It was only on Monday that I posted and article giving my experience about helping a poor old man who lived alone in a makeshift hut (without pipe water and electricity) in Pahang, without a job and a family to support him. He survives on the barest necessity and eats whatever he grows around his makeshift hut. I didn’t blame the Pahang state government for the old man’s predicament, but I did say that the ‘wakil rakyat’ has to take the blame.

I think Leow’s family plight is not peculiar to the state of Selangor only, but is also found in all states throughout the country. Shahrizat only need to walk around the back lanes of urban Kuala Lumpur, or to take a peep under bridges around the city centre at night, to witness the homeless city dwellers. They may not be Malaysians, but regardless of who these people are, they are still human being that needs to survive. Do not tell me that Shahrizat’s home state of Pulau Pinang is free of the destitute and homeless; and if there are destitute people today in the state, will she now blame the PR state government for creating the problem?

Let me tell Shahrizat that this issue of the destitute and homeless people has been around for ages; certainly it is not a recent phenomenon. And does she not know that the number keeps increasing by the day, not in Selangor only, but throughout the country? And does she not know the reason for this? The answer is simple; this government has over the last 50 odd years been taking about eradicating poverty, but till today the problem still remains. Now who do you blame for this? Khalid Ibrahim, Khir Toyo, Lim Eng Guan, Tok Guru Nik Aziz, or is it not the BN government that has ruled this country since 1957 part of the blame?

So stop blaming others Shahrizat, because you are also a party to blame. And please stop this cheap publicity stunt.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

MUHYIDDIN – 50 YEARS TO LATE

DPM Muhyiddin Yassin is reported to have said that the federal government still prioritized Bumiputera interest, contrary to the perception among the country’s dominant majority. At the same time he also said that changes should not be seen in a narrow context of ethnic groups, but in a broader context to benefit all Malaysians.

I say this to Muhyiddin that it is 50 years too late. This is the kind of rhetoric that government has been saying all these years. The NEP formulated following the aftermath of the May 13, 1969 racial riots was aimed at resolving the economic imbalances among races and improving upon the economic and social well being of the Bumiputra. But till today the government is still stuck with the same rhetoric that priority is to better the economic and social prospect of the Bumiputera. Do we need another 50 more years before the Bumiputera can come out of its predicament? I honestly doubt we can, given another 100 years without a drastic change in the mindset of governance of our present and future political leaders.

Today we hear of new pronouncement being made aimed at what the NEP was suppose to achieve, but said in various mind boggling acronym………………NEM, TERAJU, PEMANDU and what have you. Billions of ringgit have been announced to support these economic and social imperatives, but where the billions are to come from remain hazy. I hope it is not coming from EPF or FELDA that I am told, has been a sort of Auto Teller Machine for projects where success or failure isn’t really of deep concern. Just imagine launching a multi billion project at the wink of an eye. I was told in the past, a project of such magnitude has to go through a multi layered committees to trash in detail the cost and benefit of such a project before it is finally approved, and this may takes months or years. I would define a ‘wink of an eye’ project is normally one that is supposed to reflect grandeur or a masterpiece that does not benefit the rural folk. Who actually benefit such a project……I do not know.

If one were to talk about progress and the proper management of a nation’s wealth, I wish to invite Muhyiddin and his entire cabinet to read the entire transcript of the Singapore Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam budget speech that was presented in parliament Friday last. I know the entire cabinet will be ashamed to see how the small island state has progressed, and they now have so much of excess revenue that the government wants to share it with the entire population; not restricted to civil servants and retirees like we do. The Singapore Finance Minister does not talk about grandeur projects like building a 1000 storey building; rather he emphasized the benefits to be given back to the people. The major difference is that we spend billions (that diminishes in thin air); contrary to the Singapore government that gives back to its people the billions.


So Muhyiddin, you can call it by whatever name i.e. NEM, TERAJU, PEMANDU in the name of progress, but I have little confidence in its success of uplifting the economic and social woes of this country, especially of the Bumiputeras. Muhyiddin can shut me out on this, but please show me a single visible proof that what he says will work out with positive results, and that it is no longer pure rhetoric or an election gimmick. I know that some projects have enriched some people, but not all people get to share a piece of the success. Does Muhyiddin not know that there are still Malaysians that survive on just one meal per day? I have seen this with my own set of eyes when I was the Brigade Commander serving in Pahang. Having seen the plight of this poor old man living in a shack, we gathered some money and bought him whatever food we could, and we even purchased him a bicycle. Obviously, no one really cared for this man, neither does the wakil rakyat know of his existence.

My only word of advice to Muhyiddin, if he really cares to listen to this old and retired soldier, is to get cracking on leakages that go unabated through the scourge of corruption. For as long as corruption lingers and remain unstoppable, I do not believe in his words…………..pronounce in whatever superlatives.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

RUSLAN KASSIM PLEASE SHUT UP

Star Online August 20th 2011 reported that Perkasa Information Chief Ruslan Kassim has labelled Marina Mahathir as ‘mudah lupa’ merely for differing in views with that of her father Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamed regarding the Bersih rally. While we are yet to hear a single statement from Tun Dr. Mahathir to labelled her daughter as ‘mudah lupa’, here we have Ruslan to drag Tun Dr. Mahathir to his rescue.

I have been told that Tun Dr. Mahathir is himself a controversial figure and has all along been a subject of criticism from his detractors. So if Marina Mahathir’s view is so different from that of her father, I see no contradiction, but rather an acceptable fact that her father could willingly accept. I think Marina Mahathir has been making a lot of differing statements all these years, if one cares to read her blog. But why has Ruslan to raise this issue now. Is he trying to place a wedge between Tun Dr. Mahathir and Marina Mahathir? This is typical of Perkasa when they have lost out over an issue, and the Bersih rally is one fine example of them having chicken out after some boisterous statements by their hero.

Not satisfied at having to drag Tun Dr. Mahathir to Perkasa’s cause, Ruslan now dared Marina Mahathir to declare her assets. My question to Ruslan is for what reason does he wants Marina Mahathir to declare her assets? I think Ruslan is just being stupid. Before Marina Mahathir declares her assets, Ruslan might want to ask all the cabinet ministers to declare their assets first, if he dares. It is not only the cabinet ministers but also to all the top BN leaders including him.

I dare you Ruslan and if you do not do it, will you just shut up and start thinking of how to improve the badly dented image of Perkasa.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

CDF’S STATEMENT – MY TWO CENTS WORTH COMMENTS

I have been receiving calls from several people (known and unknown to me) to seek my comment on the recent statement made by the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Tan Sri Zulkifly Mat Zain concerning the revelation made by some former Armed Forces (AF) retirees that the ballot papers of AF personals have been rigged in the past to favour BN candidates. Personally, I have not seen nor have I been involved in the rigging. But I did hear that such an activity has occurred in the past, and if one were to proceed with an investigation (I believe it should be done to redeem public confidence), I suggest it should start at the very source i.e. at Jabatan Rekod dan Pencen (JRP) and the AF Intelligence Division.

I fervently believe in a free and fair election where all contending candidates must be given equal opportunity to the electoral process. Just look at what Singapore had done in the last election where it was conducted in complete fairness to all candidates. The opposition (though small) were even given air time on TV to express their political agendas to the public, that is barely acceptable here. There wasn’t any arrest or harassment on opposition candidates by the authorities during the campaign. Everything was civil and orderly. Finally, the Singapore election saw a long standing minister being ousted and because of this, the government has taken drastic measures to win back public confidence; not by demonizing the opposition, but to see what more can be done to improve on their weaknesses. Here, I do not wish to make any further comparison between us and Singapore, but certainly there is a lot our politicians can learn from the Singapore election.

Now with regards to the CDF’s comment that was viewed on TV and in the alternative media, I have this to say. I personally think the CDF should have been more careful with the phrases used during the press conference. There must not be any political undertone that would subject him to odium by civil society. Please remember that civil society’s thinking today is unlike what it was in the 60’s. It has change dramatically. There is a lot of consciousness and differing perception among civil society today of the ruling government and of political parties. People now have greater access to the media, where in the past the MSM ruled supreme. Today the alternative media is easily accessible, even to grandfathers and grandmothers. There is no denying this fact.

I am rather shocked to hear that the CDF has referred the former soldiers as traitors. This is uncalled for and with such a declaration; it merely nullifies the former soldiers past service record of loyalty, sacrifice and service to King and country. What I fear is that by referring to them as traitors merely on grounds that they were trying to reveal the truth may also hurt the feeling of other former soldiers. This is because the camaraderie among soldier is strong even after having long retired from the service and this is true among them. If indeed they were traitors, such a declaration I think can only be announced by the King in his capacity as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.

While I have my highest respect for the CDF and the service chiefs, they ought to be extremely careful and weary of making statements that can be seen to have a political undertone. Please confine statement to reflect the AF apolitical stand and not to be dragged into the ‘abuses of politics’. Cast away the poor example shown by the likes of the Deputy Chairman of the Election Commission that clearly shows he acted as a tool to his political masters. Please remember too that the AF is not subservient to politics, if it is to be respected.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

MCMC – STOP MONKEYING AROUND

Did any of you saw the video of an argument that ensued between lawyer Fadiah Natwa Fikri ( a lawyer representing Lawyers for Liberty) and an uncouth MCMC officer (he deserve to called one) in front of the MCMC headquarters recently?

Fadiah Natwa was merely acting as a lawyer for Suara Keadilan’s Yusriah Yusof who was summoned to MCMC for a statement over a photograph she took of a bloodied bodyguard of Anuar Ibrahim, injured in the face after being hit by a police teargas canister during the Bersih rally. The photograph was widely circulated online in the alternative media, but absolutely nothing appeared in the MSM, for a very simple reason i.e. that a photograph like this is bad publicity for the police.

If one were to listen to the subsequent explanation given by Fadiah Natwa to reporters as to how she and Yusriah had to tolerate the aggressive and arrogant MCMC officers conducting the interview on Yusiah, one wouldn’t believe these are officers of our most distinguished civil service. If what was described by Fadiah was true, then I think they (MCMC officers) were all poorly trained public servants and do not deserve to be salaried at public expense. This is a poor reflection of officers of the government that has brought shame and disrepute to the entire civil service and the government, and if nothing is done to remedy this, the public will continue to lose faith and confidence in MCMC as well as the government. I do not know how the MCMC Minister will react to this, but I suppose he would just regard this incident as something trivial.

And having seen this incident, I am not at all surprise that such insolent and aggressive culture of our civil servants has permeated some other department of the government as well, notably the police and MACC. I’ll stick by my argument that namely these two departments and now including the MCMC need a complete revamp from ‘head to toe’, for civil society no longer have any respect for them.

The decision taken by MCMC to act on Yusiah for a mere photograph raises a lot of questions. What offence has Yusiah breached by taking the photograph? Is it because Yusiah is a photographer for Suara Keadilan that makes the photo taking an offence? Had the photo taken by the MSM, would MCMC act the way they did on Yusiah? I do not think so because the MCMC officers are good and loyal servants of the government and they would not have bothered with an interview. This smack of stupidity, ignorance and sheer arrogance of power of some low level government officials who think they can do what they wish, to the extent of exerting their will on an innocent lady photographer. If indeed the Suara Keadilan lady photographer has committed an offence that is punishable by law, then launch a police report. I am now beginning to wonder who instructed the MCMC officers to conduct an interview on Yusiah. Or does MCMC think they are law in themselves?

To you Fadiah Natwa, I salute you for your stand against those MCMC male aggressors.
And to Yusiah Yusof, the photo makes good publicity during GE 13. Keep it up.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

THANK YOU - RMAF

On Monday 15th August, I received a call from one Mej Mohd Azzuan Abd Wahab RMAF, a staff officer at Markas Tentera Udara informing me that the Chief of Air Force has kindly extended me a copy of a book titled ‘Operasi Piramid’ which was officially launched by the Defence Minister on August 2nd 2011. I told Mej Mohd Azzuan that I will be meeting him today at the main gate of Mindef to receive the book.

I was told about the launching of the book from a blogger friend, but little did I know that I was to receive a copy, and books fascinate me.

‘Operasi Piramid’ chronicles the RMAF’s involvement in evacuating thousands of Malaysian students from Egypt back home during the tumultuous period of the Egyptian revolt early this year. Glancing through the book, I have little doubt that ‘Operasi Piramid’ was no ordinary operation undertaken by the RMAF, as it involves transiting through the airspace of a number of foreign countries. I am amaze at the readiness and dexterity of the RMAF C 130 crew and its supporting staffs to undertake such a mammoth tasking with incredible success.

I salute the men and women of the RMAF, especially the crew of the C 130 for their spirit, indulgence and professionalism in undertaking a task so complex with great success. Had I not been given the book, I would not have known to what extend the RMAF’s involvement in ‘Operasi Piramid’.

Finally, I wish to sincerely thank the RMAF Chief Jen Tan Sri Dato Sri Rodzali bin Daud for his kind gesture and thought of a retired army soldier like me, and to extend a copy of this truly wonderful book ‘Operasi Piramid and duly signed by him.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

THE PARLIAMENTARY SELECT COMMITTEE

The EC Deputy Chairman Wan Ahmad Wan Omar has expressed surprise at PM Najib’s recent announcement to form a Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to dwell on mattters in connection with the recent demands of Bersih for an electoral reform that is mired in controversies. Wan Ahmad was reported to have said, “I didn’t expect the PM to take this step”, and by this brief statement, one assumes that the EC would not have done anything had Najib remain silent over this issue. But in the next breath, Wan Ahmad has all praises for Najib by stating that Najib “has made the right announcement, and has shown sincerity in satisfying the people about the electoral system”. A statement like this is so often said by politicians when there are cornered to please their masters. And I am not surprised that such a statement comes from Wan Ahmad who lacks the understanding that he does not serve any political master, but only the King.

I say to Wan Ahmad that he should be ashamed of himself being the ‘custodian’ of the EC, and for not reacting positively to the demands of Bersih in the first instant. Rather he has been defensive and too protective of his responsibility, and at some point in his argument he claimed that there is nothing he could do to institute changes since there are laws governing the functions of the EC. Again I say this to Wan Ahmad that the EC laws are not sacrosanct; unlike the Quran. EC laws can be changed or modified to suit changing situations, and the Bersih demands clearly reflect the need to change.

I am a bit surprised to note that it has been Wan Ahmad all along to lead the ‘defence’ of the EC since the Bersih issue came to light. Of course, there were some occasional statements made by the EC Chairman himself. But this was unlike the previous EC Chairman where he was always at the forefront taking the full brunt from the public. I do not think the EC Chairman has retired, or is he on his way out, thus allowing his deputy to take charge in readiness for a takeover? Had a similar situation arise in the army, the chief would have been forced to resign, for it is quite obvious that he can no longer show leadership.

PM Najib has yet to announce the full term of reference of the PSC, and it will also be interesting to know who shall lead the committee and its members. There have been voices that the committee should be opposition led, but I am quite skeptical that this will be allowed by the government. But whoever is appointed to chair the committee, he/she must be free of any political influences, and to achieve this, I believe the chair must be given to someone who is without any political affiliation and a person of high integrity.

Let us all placed out trust and confidence in the PSC and to patiently await its outcome. Malaysian have waited for decades for a free and fair elections, and I hope the findings and recommendations of the PSC will be the best and most satisfying ever for the Malaysian voters. I believe too that this will set a fine example for other countries to emulate.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

MEETING THE DEMANDS OF BERSIH

At long last, PM Najib has buckled (for good reason) to the demands of Bersih and where he announced the setting up of a parliamentary select committee to discuss electoral reforms before the next GE. He also said that the members of the select committee will comprised of both BN and opposition, but made no mention about including Bersih and selected members of the civil society. In fact, it was Bersih that had started the demand and protest for an electoral reform, but it now seems that Bersih in particular, is not privy to the membership of the select committee. I find this strange and totally unacceptable.

Now even the EC has awakened from their slumber and persistent denials. The commission is said to have started the process of cleaning the electoral roll for phantom voters. And isn’t this an act of self confession and guilt that there were indeed phantom voters in the EC’s electoral roll previously? If there were phantom voters, then both the EC Commissioner and his deputy are deemed to have lied to the public all the while and they should rightfully resign. What is worse is that they have breached the trust bestowed upon them by the King; and in more direct terms, they can no longer be trusted with the job.

The decision made by Najib, I know will come under severe criticism; not from civil society or the opposition, but from within his own party. I am quite sure in the next few days dissenting voices in defence of the righteousness of the EC can be heard aloud. Certainly such dissenting voices will not come from Bersih, civil society or the opposition, but from those who feel threatened by the decisions likely to come off the select committee. I do hope the select committee will seriously look at the complains made against the EC in states that are controlled by the opposition in particular, in light of the strong statements made by Najib himself that the opposition controlled states has to be retaken and won by all means (or words to the effect). As I have said in the past, such strong statement by Najib could backfire and placed him on the defensive, and this what we see happening to him now.

Henceforth, Najib has to be extremely careful not to be intimidated by his party members and those of his inner circle (including Perkasa)into retracting what he had announced. Another U-turn, denial or excuses would only widened the gap of mistrust that civil society has had in him, besides further alienating him from the believers of the cause of Bersih. I believe Najib is strong enough to take on the foreseeable challenges from dissidents to his announcement, and if he can withstand and rebut such challenges, he will surely have the support of the thousands that were out gathered on July 9th , and certainly me included.

This is indeed a critical moment for Najib, and he must know that leadership is all about taking challenges. Najib has no other choice but to exert his leadership now over his party members. Even if Najib were to fall out of favor just because he is trying to defend what he think is best for the nation and its people, he falls with grace and honor. In this particular instant, it is not the party members to judge him, but it is the people i.e. the voters; the very people that will finally decide the fate of the party during the election.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

LIARS PREFERRED

There has been so much of hue and cry over the beating by rioters of one of our Malaysian student Asyraf Haziq Rossli during the riots in London recently. The news was all over our mainstream media for days and including the BBC, CNN etc. UMNO even questioned why was the opposition mute over the incident? While the action taken by UMNO to help Asyraf off his predicament and his family is commendable, little attention however is given to incidents in the country eg. the many death while in police custody and the overzealous act by our policemen shooting dead a schoolboy in Shah Alam. I would also like to commend the action by the office of the Malaysian High Commission in London to take full charge of the situation affecting Asyraf, and calling for a press conference was the right thing to do and for Asyraf to express his views about the incident.

Now, aren’t the above serious incidents i.e death in police custody and the shooting of the schoolboy warrant speedy investigation and justice for the bereaved family members? I now want to ask, what is UMNO’s and our political leaders stand over these incidents? Has there been any assistance given to the bereaved family members? I am still not convinced that the action taken by the authorities over the many cases of death in police custody and even the handling of the shooting of the schoolboy in Shah Alam is fair. As I have stated in some previous articles that we now have a number of government salaried killers in our midst, and they are roaming free. But I know for sure that those who are guilty of incurring such death, or are an accomplished will not be free of their conscience. There is certainly no escape for them, and if they are Muslims (applies to other faith as well) their fate is sealed when they meet their creator to answer to all their misdeeds. The problem with us is that we do not see the ‘hereafter’, and by not seeing, we do not know nor feel what it is like to be in hell.

This goes also for all those who are corrupt, and there are thousands around us that lives a luxurious lifestyle due to their corrupt practice. Have we not heard the story of the gatekeeper that became rich and build himself a palatial home in Klang, but did not live long enough to enjoy the fruits of his labor? And are we not now seeing a former head of a state government being charged for alleged corruption relating to acquisition of some properties in Selangor? What a way to end an illustrious life i.e. from being an honorable and respected individual to one of scorn and despise. I do not know what it is like to be in court facing a corruption charge, but I think the air conditioned court room being kept at 24 degree Celsius is cool enough to keep the accused in a balance physical and mental state of mind.

It was just a few hours ago that I received a call from someone that I do not know asking me this question, “What is happening to our country today. Where is the racial and religious tolerance that our political masters talked about”? The caller notes that we are more divided today than that at the time of her father. I totally agree with the caller, and I explained that me being of the age of her father had gone through a different period of life i.e. one of respect, tolerance and where issues of race and religion among the society then were kept sacred and wasn’t a hindrance in our social upbringing and lifestyle.

Now we hear of Ezam Nor who was made a senator with the courtesy of the Najib’s government taking of wanting to burn Malaysiakini news portal over the raid by JAIS on a church in PJ incident. I challenge Ezam to go and burn the news portal, if he dares. I say, do not try to be another Malay champion like that froggy Ibrahim Ali, who chickened out during the Bersih rally after all his threats. And did Ezam not chicken out with his lies about having in his possession boxes of files on corrupt individuals that he wished to expose; only to shut up now that he is appointed an honorable senator? I now want to ask Ezam, did he not lie about the loads of files? And I wonder what criteria and basis was used by Najib to have Ezam appointed a senator? And I personally see nothing that Ezam did in the past that is so outstanding that qualifies him to be a senator other than him being a coward.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

THE ELECTION COMMISSION – A DISHONEST AND UNTRUTHFUL BUNCH

The Election Commission (EC) says that there have been some technical glitches in the electoral roll, but they stop short of accepting full responsibility. If there were only one or two glitches, then I and many others are willing to accept that there was no malice intended against the opposition. But the glitches are far too numerous in obvious intent to cheat in order to booster the BN’s chances of winning hugely in the up-coming GE. I could not find a much kinder expression, but to use the derogatory word CHEAT to express rancor towards the EC for failing in their duty to maintain an apolitical stance and sworn duty to remain neutral in the management of their functions and duties. I now believe that cheating has been the hallmark of the EC all these years, and it is high time that all likeminded Malaysians put a brake to all this.

Me, being an ex soldier and a leader of men, I am always reminded of the qualities of a good leader, and what I try to hold dearly are these three qualities i.e. integrity, honesty and sincerity. It is not only me that tries to uphold such princely qualities, but there are also many others like me. You see leadership come with responsibilities and being a leader, one must set good examples all the time. It is not only the soldiers that will constantly be watching you, but their families as well. Throughout my years in the service, I have seen it all i.e. the good and not so good leaders, but I always remind myself that if I do not like the behavior and character of the not so good leaders, then I will make sure that I do not emulate their examples. But I would say that I was most fortunate to have served under some of the finest military leaders; without whom I wouldn’t be what I am today.

Looking at the experience that I have gone through and comparing it with what I see happening in the EC, I think the EC is well below my standard i.e. they are not honest and a pack of liars. And mind you, the commission is answerable to the King, and if it were the military, the top echelon officers would have gone to the gallows. This is where the military differs from the civil service. It is the discipline imbued in the military training that makes all the difference. Lying and dishonestly is a serious offence in the military that is liable to punishment and even a dishonorable discharge. However such offence makes little sense to the EC, and this applies to some of our political leaders as well. Do we not often hear our political leaders make lots of promises during an election, only to renege their promises upon them winning. If they have lied once, they will continue to lie and this is the culture that I find most prevalent and disgusting among our leaders.

PM Najib now say that he intend to meet up with the EC to resolve issues affecting the commission. I suppose Najib is concern at the demands of Bersih and the many complains brought about by the opposition and civil society regarding the EC. But why leave out the very people that demanded change in the EC? Why not get Bersih into the discussion and some notable likeminded personalities as well. Najib has to show openness and sincerity in wanting to see change in EC, but openness seems to have eluded Najib. Why is this so? And what about his slogan “rakyat di dahulukan, pencapaian diutamakan”. Does this slogan mean nothing to him?

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

THE EUROFIGHTER TYPHOON – WILL IT BE THE RMAF’S FINAL CHOICE?

Got this email being circulated by some one that I thought would be good reading, since it is quite related to what the RAMF has in store i.e. the intended acquisition of new generation fighter aircrafts as a possible replacement for the Russian made MIG 29N purchased in the 90’s.

RAF STRIP JETS FOR SPARE PARTS: TYPHOONS TORN UP FOR LIBYA AIR FLEET.

The RAF is tearing apart state-of-the-art fighter jet for spare parts to keep warplanes flying over Libya. Three Typhoons, costing 125 million (pound sterling) each are cannibalized at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire to cover a desperate shortage of parts. This means three jets had to be grounded in March so RAF technicians could raid them to keep the maximum number of Typhoons in the air (in Libya).

Commander Nigel “Sharkey” Ward, decorated for flying Harrier jump jets during the Falklands war said, “The Typhoon is an astronomically expensive aircraft that is ill suited to any role outside UK airspace. It is essentially a very expensive RAF sacred cow”. End.

I read too that the Indian Air Force (IAF) is also acquiring the latest generation of fighter aircrafts, dubbed the most expensive acquisition in the history of the IAF by acquiring 126 aircrafts at an expected costs of USD 12 billion.

The IAF has short listed two aircrafts after a thorough evaluation i.e. the Eurpoean Eurofighter Typhoon and the French Dassault Rafale, and a final decision is expected in September.

In the case of the RMAF, speculations are rife that the choice for its latest acquisition is also the Eurofighter Typhoon, and being the more expensive (as reported by Commander Nigel) the final choice could easily be the Typhoon. In the case of the IAF, costs per aircraft is taken into serious consideration and whichever manufacturer offers the best in terms of pricing (lowest bid) without compromising performance wins the contract.

The IAF too has the MIG 29 and in much superior numbers than the RMAF. But the IAF does not easily discard the aircraft for a new one (like we normally do). Rather they go for refurbishment and up-grades. This is what we are bad at because we have not prepared nor developed expertise to such levels where we can perform extensive refurbishments and up-grade on our fighter aircrafts. So, the easy way out is to buy, and we will keep on buying if nothing is done to develop our own expertise, and this goes for the entire Armed Forces.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

HISHAMUDDIN – YOU GOT IT ALL WRONG

Hisham, you got it all wrong once again. How could you compare the London riots with that of the Bersih protest? Any Dick, Tom and Harry knows the difference between the two and don’t tell us that if our police had not acted the way they did, we would have suffered the same consequences as the London riots. Hisham was merely echoing (supposedly, without giving much thoughts) what was said by the DIGP Datuk Khalid Abu Bakar earlier.

Please Hisham, you still think that we Malaysian are so naïve and to be told of the untold destruction the Bersih rally could have caused to the peace and security of this country. To me, had there been no water cannons or tear gas, the rally would have fizzled out in just a few hours, with no arrest, injuries and even death. The protestors would have given a huge thumb up to the police for their patience and cooperation. And I am quite sure Hisham would have gained much popularity for this, and I quite sure too that even Pak Samad would have some kind words for the government.

Hisham and the rest said that the authorities acted in a ‘civil way’, and the police had to justify their activities by showing videos to the press of their supposedly civilised way of handling a peaceful protest demanding a free and fair election. Even the electronic media with the courtesy of the Information Ministry went all out to proof their ‘innocence’, but the fact of the matter is that civil society and particularly those that were at the rally knows exactly what happened. They say that you need to cover a lie with a bigger lie, and that was what the authorities actually did to cover their lies; and one clear example was the incident at Tung Shin Hospital. Despite all the evidences, not a word of apology and regrets from the authorities………….what sheer arrogance.

Clearly, the London riot wasn’t started for a political reason, and this was clearly mentioned by the British PM in parliament and this was supported by the opposition leader. The British civil society responded in the same manner. It was a criminal act by gangs of youth that just wanted to create chaos and public disorder. There was no clear leadership and demands. The rioters acted quite independently and it was a clear case of ‘you do what you like’ and if caught, ‘you answer for yourself’.

You see, the difference is too obvious if one were to compare it with the Bersih rally. The Bersih rally had a genuine purpose and this was well stated at the outset. It had a leadership and is well organized and made known to the authorities. It wasn’t a ‘cloak and dagger’ operations. Even a formal request for the rally was submitted to the authorities with an assurance that the rally will be peaceful. This request was flatly disapproved and was deemed an illegal assembly; on the most outrageous basis. Even a yellow shirt and the word Bersih became illegal. See how paranoid can the authorities be.

Once again I would like to say this to adik Hisham, “berfikir lah dahulu sebelum bercakap. Awak ini bukan nya budak budak lagi tapi seorang menteri. Dan sebagai saorang menteri apa yang harus keluar dari mulut awak ialah kata kata yang mulia lagi bijaksana yang boleh diterima akal. Contohi lah kemuliaan dan kebijaksanaan ninda dan ayahanda awak. Itu lah ingatan kekanda awak yang hina ini”.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

RMAF SG. BESI BASE CEASES OPERATIONS NOV 30TH 2011

Below is the complete news report taken from The Malaysian Insider dated August 09, 2011 for the reading of all RMAF officers and men, particularly those that have retired and had at some point in their career served at the base. I just want to know what their reaction would be upon reading this news. To me it is the most idiotic news that I have ever heard…………..another piece of military history gone in the name of development. Happy reading.

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 9 - The city’s Sungai Besi air base will close its doors on November 30 to make way for development under the government-owned 1 Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB)

The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) chief Tan Sri Rodzali Daud said aircraft operations would be relocated to their other facilities with only helicopter services remaining in Sungai Besi, Bernama reported.

1MDB – the master developer for Bandar Malaysia – signed the transfer of the 169.6ha in June from the federal land commissioner.

Rodzali clarified that RMAF are hoping to keep the museum and mosque located inside the land. This is being discussed along with the transfer of assets, infrastructure and facilities to their other bases in Subang, Sendayan and Kuantan.

He said it is important they prepare a command and control system at the new Subang base so that operations can be fully transferred by 2016.

The restructuring will result in Subang becoming the command and control center and relying on Sendayan for flight training and Kuantan to lodge other assets.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

WHAT’S HOT IN THE NEWS?

The hottest news relating to corruption being reported in the media presently is the PKFZ multibillion scandal involving former MCA boss and Transport Minister Tun Ling Liong Sik, and the former Selangor Menteri Besar Khir Toyo; both being notable politicians (though one has retired, and the other remains an active politician). The other single new that is now making waves, besides the Anuar Ibrahim’s sexual escapade, is the multi million ringgit diamond ring reportedly purchased by Rosmah Mansor.

In the case of Tun Ling Liong Sik, a ‘budak boy’, I least expected him to be involved in the PKFZ scandal that ran into billions, as I would have thought that his years as a ‘budak boy’ would have made him a more disciplined person imbued with the sense of loyalty, honesty and integrity. I now think that it must have been his years as a politician that had spoilt him to act like a rogue, and to be associated with the business world, one has also to be a rouge.

In the case of Khir Toyo, I thought that by being picked up by then PM Mahathir so early in his political career and to be placed in the pedestal as a Menteri Besar in double quick time, Khir Toyo must surely be someone outstanding, brilliant, an incorruptible and a trusted young politician. Being a village boy whose parents were mere simpleton, he would not have been easily influence by the grandeur in life that is so obvious among the senior politicians within the state.

But my good and noble presumption of the two politicians above has proven to be wrong. And what’s worse, both are titled personalities i.e. one is a Tun and the other is a Dato. This has made me to be even more suspicious and doubtful as to the trustworthiness and truthfulness of our present day politicians in their effort to fight corruption. And titles mean really nothing. Looking at their life style alone makes me wonder whether what some of them have amassed today is through their well earned and honest effort or otherwise. You be the judge.

Here, I am not accusing that all politicians are corrupt or that corruption is synonymous with politicians. I know that some are honest and god fearing, like the stories that I so often hear when I travel to Johore, regarding the late Tun Hussein Onn and the ‘reluctant politician’ Tun Dr. Ismail. I know that these two noble politicians have left the world with no worldly possessions; rather they only left behind their good deeds and honorable name that we Malaysians can cherish.

As for Anuar Ibrahim, my hope about him getting a reprieve in the ongoing trial is beginning to wither. It is best that I set my thoughts that he will be incarcerated in the end, and it will take a miracle that he gets scot free. But if Anuar does get a reprieve, the challenge to PM Najib during the up-coming GE will be a fiercely fought battle – a mother of all battles as Saddam Hussein had once said. UMNO pundits have already predicted of a possible retake of my state, Selangor, and this is in keeping with the pledge that Najib made i.e. to retake Selangor by all means. The same goes to Pulau Pinang where the BN is confident of a recapture of the state. But what I hear is quite different, unless thousands of illegals are to appear in their ghostly outfit at polling day; a government sanction invasion of illegal’s made legal, as I have stated in my previous posting.

And finally, with regards to Rosmah Mansor’s multi millions ringgit diamond ring, let me just be forthright by saying that if it was true that Rosmah had purchased the ring with her lifetime hard earned, clean and honest savings (that’s what was reported in Utusan Malaysia), I wish her all the best. But if it was otherwise, then that multi million ringgit diamond ring will be a curse and the cause of her husband’s pitiful downfall. And what follows after will be the most unsettled and restive period of their lives. Surely they do not wish to be dragged to court like Tun Ling and Khir Toyo.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

THE STORY OF THE TWO ID’S

It was reported in an opposition news media that some serving members of the Armed Forces has two identity cards (ID) i.e. first is the service issued ID, and the other the NRD issued ID. The news also reported that this is a deliberate ploy by the government in an attempt to allow holders of such ID’s to vote twice during the election in a bid to favor the government’s chances of winning the up-coming GE.

I am not quite sure whether to believe or not to believe the news report. But I can say for certain that in my 34 years of military service, I have not heard nor seen any soldier or officer that has in their possession two IDs. I remembered that upon being enlisted into the service, our civilian ID has to be surrendered, and little do I know where the ID is being kept. Upon retirement, I was told to report to the NRD to have a new civilian ID processed and issued. The old civilian ID was never returned to me and the only thing I know of my old ID is the ID number which is recorded in the new ID.

I do not know if the process of surrendering one’s civilian ID upon the enlistment of officers and soldiers has now changed. I believe the process is the same, unless there is a deliberate attempt by someone to use the surrendered ID for a ‘specific purpose’ without the knowledge of the owner of the ID. But to allow the civilian ID to be retained by the owner to be used specifically for voting purposes sound absurd and nonsensical.

I have known officers and soldiers personal character and habits. They being so close to one another will share and speak quite freely of any ‘secrets’ that one harbors. Even their love affairs are not kept a secret, but to be shared and joked about. I still hold lots of secret on some of my fellow officers, especially their times as a young officer and gallivanting days. We do continue to share some of those ‘old stories’ when we meet, only to realized how wonderful the days were when we were young officers. I also believe the same goes for the soldiers. Officers and soldiers being what they are do not keep secrets among friends, and should they be in possession of two IDs as reported, many would have known about it.

If at all the report of the two ID’s is true, I dare challenge the originator of the report to reveal their source. Otherwise, I would just say that the report is fictitious, and is nothing but a big lie.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

WILL MALAYSIA BE LIKE EGYPT OR IRAQ?

Having watched Al Jazeera on the ongoing trial of former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak who was caged-in on a stretcher, I begin to wonder if ever such a thing could happen in this country to anyone of our leaders. Mubarak is charged for premeditated murder for ordering the shooting of the protestors during the people’s revolution that evicted him from power, and for massive corruption throughout his years as Egypt’s President, that spans more than two decades.

No one had ever realized, including me, that the man who was once the Egyptian Air Force Commander that served with distinction during the October War against Israel in 1973, and was later appointed the Vice President of Egypt under President Anuar Sadat. Hosni Mubarak rose to become the fourth President of Egypt following the assassination of Anuar Sadat while witnessing an Armed Forces parade in 1981. Besides the above two charges, strangely enough, Hosni Mubarak is also being investigated for the assassination of Anuar Sadat that happened 30 years ago. Since it was a case of murder, I think there isn’t a time bar imposed upon such cases. So, the many murderers in our midst better beware, particularly those that had caused the death of many while the victims are being incarcerated in our prison cells. The Kugan case is one that I can still remember.

Having seen the pathetic and ailing state of a once powerful head of government and a strong ally of the most powerful nation in the world USA, Hosni Mubarak’s bed ridden figure strikes me to believe even more that no human being is powerful enough to decide and to control his or her fate. It is the will of the All Mighty that Hosni Mubarak has to fall and his fate now lies mercilessly in the hands of the Egyptian trial judges. Now, not even his once powerful ally could lend him a helping hand. Many of his loyalists had abandoned him, and some are on trial with him.

Hosni Mubarak’s downfall is unlike that of Saddam Hussein of Iraq. While it was the Egyptian people that caused the downfall of Mubarak, Saddam’s downfall was very much ‘US aided and sponsored’. In other words Mubarak deserves to be brought down more than Saddam, because the latter’s downfall wasn’t genuinely through a people’s revolution. Now, who then was the more hatred leader?

Coming back to what we see happening in this country presently, I cannot say for certain that this country is ripe for a people’s revolution. Although we know that corruption among the political elite and government officials are rife, but there are still the semblance of political, social and economic stability in this country. The people can still find food on their table. Jobs are aplenty. There is the sense of security prevailing throughout, and ‘cowboy like executions’ that I used to witnessed in Cambodia in the early 90’s is rarely heard off. I can say that our people are yet to be pushed to the wall.

But despite the above prevailing ‘feel good factor’, the government has to be watchful and constantly vigilant against the rise in abuses and the deprivation of the rights of individual by the ruling authorities. Draconian laws like the much debated ISA and the EO are examples to quote. The recently held Bersih 2.0 rally to demand free and fair elections can spark a more serious people’s backlash. And the growing support that Bersih had gain internationally cannot be ignored by the government. But despite all this, I think there is still the lackadaisical attitude among the ruling elite to treat seriously the causes that had sparked people’s discontent. They (the governing elites) think nothing will happen to them because they are secured in the arms of the law. But just look at what had happened to Mubarak? Was he not surrounded by his powerful security forces? The same goes for Saddam.

So let us all be mindful that if the people has awakened, nothing can stop them from meeting their demands; nothing at all. Not even the mighty security forces. And let us be reminded again that we should draw lessons from Mubarak and Saddam, although many would say that what happened in Egypt and Iraq is not likely to happen in this country.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

PAROI CAMP - WAS THE ARMY HOODWINKED?

Does Paroi Camp, Seremban that was home to ‘T’ Battery LLAD rings a bell to officers and men of the Royal Artillery Corps? I remembered the camp well because it was first occupied by a newly raised Royal Malay Regiment battalion around the late 70’s, before it was handed over to an artillery unit. I think it was the 13th Battalion Royal Malay Regiment. It was an old British Camp though with a short airstrip and the hanger became the army boxing team training center. Well, in those days the Artillery Corps had excellent boxers and I do not really know the reason why. I suppose their soldiers were the hardy type having built their muscle and strength from lifting the heavy bombs and guns. Names like Lt Kol Maskan Katan and Mej Maniam (both artillery officers) comes to mind as they were the officers’ charged with managing the army boxing team.

Sometimes in the 80’s, the Negeri Sembilan state government wanted to build a stadium at Paroi, on grounds that army were ‘technically squatters’, so says the state government then. I may be wrong in my presumption, but if the land was state property, I think Mindef wouldn’t have succumbed easily to the demand by the state government. But on second thought, and upon knowing the ill fated decision to sell off the historical Sg. Besi Air Force Base, I think Mindef would still give away Paroi Camp anyhow, in keeping with the well tested Malaysia Boleh slogan. And did we not see how a portion of Majidee army camp, Johor Baru was sold off to some developer without any thought given towards preserving the historical camp i.e. the birth place of the Malaysian Special Service Unit (MSSU) in the 60’s, or the Commandos as it is popularly known now. Colorful personalities that were the pioneers of the MSSU, e.g. Mej Sidek, Mej Abu Hassan, Lt Ghazali Ibrahim, Lt Ramli Ismail, Lt Sarjit Singh and Lt Hussein Awang Senik are now merely names in the pages of the Malaysian commandos history (if there is one).

After the eviction of ‘T’ Battery LLAD from Paroi to Segenting Camp, Port Dickson that was to become the Artillery School, the stadium was eventually built. However, a large tract of the camp area that was supposed to be developed by the state was left unattended for some unknown reason. I am told that the piece of unattended land has now become private property, with a notice board prominently displayed as such. One can hazard a guess as to who had acquired the land (the notice board says it is Property Development Sdn Bhd), and who do you think are the beneficiaries from the sale of the land. One wonders who the Menteri Besar was then when the sale of the land was transacted and at what price. I doubt details of the transaction will ever be made public because such a transaction is usually categorized as ‘OSA’.

The question that many would ask now is why dispose off a piece of state property that could have been developed by the state to cater for public interest, and at the same time the property remain in the hands of the state government. Such piece of property is priceless and if I were the Menteri Besar, I would have put the area to better use i.e. like turning it into a recreation center, building a school or a hospital or any other public amenities that could benefit the people. Since the property remains in the hands of the state, I would not be getting a cent.

Well, selling off state property in the name of development is the usual argument by most state governments. But why the haste in evicting the army unit out, when it is only now that the reason for the eviction has become obvious i.e. to dispose it to a private concern. What a cleaver way to hoodwink the army.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

MEJ NOR IBRAHIM SULAIMAN RMAF (RETIRED) EFFORTS NOT IN VAIN

I had in February 10th 2010 posted an article in support of Mej Nor Ibrahim Sulaiman RMAF (Retired) who believed that officers and soldiers who are recipients’ of the gallantry award of the Jasa Perkasa Persekutuan (JPP) and Pingat Tentera Udara (PTU) deserves to receive a ‘gallantry allowance’ on a similar basis as the recipients of the PGB and SP. Mej Nor Ibrahim began his ‘struggle’ to obtain some form of ‘monetary recognition’ from the government dates back to 2008.

On July 30th 2011, PM Najib finally announced that all recipients of the JPP and PTU will be granted a monthly allowance of RM1000 backdated to 2009, thus ending the long and perilous struggle by a lone retired air force officer to obtain full recognition from the government that the JPP and PTU are no less superior gallantry awards than the PGB and SP. For his achievement, I salute Mej Nor Ibrahim who has proven to others by his exemplary act that being retired does not make him a discard, but still has in him the spirit and valor to fight; not for himself, but for the benefit of others. His unselfish deed is history for the RMAF and the Armed Forces in particular, and he must be honored as such.

Now this leaves just one more award i.e. the Kepujian Perutusan Keberanian (KPK) that is also recognized as a gallantry award that should rightfully deserve a similar recognition as the other four gallantry awards. Why was it that the KPK being a gallantry award deserves no recognition at all? If at all the KPK is deemed a ‘lesser gallantry award’, than wouldn’t it be proper that a ‘lesser gallantry allowance’ be considered? It is too much for the government to allocate some form of allowances to the recipients of the KPK who had sacrificed their lives to make this country free and safe?

I think the amount of allowances to be granted to all recipients of the KPK is far less that the amount of money loss through corruption by unscrupulous government officials, and let’s be truthful about this. A life lost or maimed in defence of the country is valueless, unlike the piece of jewelry that are worn by the ladies of the rich and famous.

I now plea on behalf of all recipients of the KPK for the government to reconsider granting some form of allowance to such recipients, and that their sacrifice to the nation is not left in vain. Can someone now takeover from where Mej Nor Ibrahim has left i.e. a long and perilous struggle to win recognition for the KPK?

To know more of Mej Nor Ibrahim please view his blog at http://xnuripilot.blogspot.com

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

NEW ARMY LEADERSHIP – CONGRATULATIONS

I wish to congratulate (though late) the following army officers who have been promoted recently to the top three positions of the army hierarchy. They are:
1. Chief of Army, Gen Datuk Hj. Zulkifly Hj. Zainal Abidin whose previous appointment was the Deputy Chief of Army.
2. Deputy Chief of Army, Lt Gen Datuk Seri Panglima Ahmad Hasbullah Mohd Nawawi whose previous appointment was the Commander Field Army.
3. Commander Field Army, Lt Gen Datuk Zulkipli Kassim, whose previous appointment was the Commander 4th Infantry Division.

Having known them (though cursory for some), I can however place my trust and confidence in their ability to shape the army to meet new challenges in the times ahead. To me, they represent a new crop of army officer who are highly intelligent, professional, responsible and whose style of leadership are well liked by the officers and men they lead.

They are officers of the highest integrity and holds firmly to their religious beliefs. I trust that they are incorruptible to the worldly temptations that have been rooted in some leaders of the recent past, and of which I was thoroughly ashamed of.

My only hope is that they can institute and inculcate a new culture in the army that is based upon trust, royalty, integrity, professionalism and most of all the fear towards the all Mighty. And remember too that the army’s loyalty is towards King and country first.

Finally, may the blessing and guidance of Allah swt be upon them.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

A GOVERNMENT’S SANCTIONED INVASION OF ILLEGALS

Over the last few days Kuala Lumpur and Putra Jaya witnessed an exodus of illegal immigrants wanting to have their status declared ‘legal’ with the courtesy of Najib’s administration. This is what I term as a government sanctioned invasion of illegal immigrant, and after having had their fingers printed and recorded in the so called state of the art biometric recorder, they are then declared legal immigrants. How convenient and how efficient are the authorities at selling out this country to the illegals. This is disgusting indeed and the Malaysia Boleh slogan has been stretched a bit too much. Never have I heard of any country in this world that welcomes illegal immigrants so tactfully, with kind generosity and with so much publicity accorded. We even had the smiling Home Minister mingling among the illegals earlier on, maybe to see whether the illegals are fully fed or otherwise.

I do not know what has become of the Home Minister. The Defence Ministry had spent so much money and resources, deploying men and equipment to monitor and to prevent illegal immigrants from entering the country. Likewise, the Immigration authorities, Maritime Enforcement Agency, police and even Rela partakes in the enforcement and prevention of illegal immigrant. But here, the Home Minister, rather than take drastic measures to expel these illegal immigrants, conveniently issues out an invitation to legalize all illegal immigrants.

With thousands of illegal immigrants made legal, the country no longer needs to defend itself against a possible invasion, because the ‘invaders’ in the form of legalized immigrants are safely on our shores. We do not know who and what they are; murderers, rapist, drug addicts, thieves and what have you. So they are now free to roam the country, do what the like, marry locals if they wish and have as many children as they can, that would later become citizens of this country. How easy it is to be a citizen of this country with the kind generosity and courtesy of our government.

It took years of hard work by the security forces to ensure the peace that all Malaysians enjoy today. Many have lost their lives in the process and are forgotten. For those who are alive today; some are without their limbs and some even without their vision, and do we really care for them? Yes, we do care for them i.e. once a year during Warriors Day with a gift of hamper.

With such ease in granting legal status to all illegal immigrants, I wonder what will become of this country and the future of its people. I am not at all surprise that some of them will in all probability be granted voting rights to vote in the upcoming GE. With Malaysia Boleh, I think everything is possible. Don’t you believe so?

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

INTERESTING READ – SINGAPORE READY ITS ARMED FORCES ON JOINT WARFARE

Dear Readers,

I have just received an article via email from a retired army colleague that I would like to share it with all of you, particularly for those who are still in the military service. While our politicians are still arguing as to whether they are Malays or Malaysian first, our closest neighbor Singapore is doing the rightful thing i.e. to get all Singaporeans to think defence first.

And did I not write about the proper employment of our Joint Force Headquarters? We can certainly learn from the example shown by the Singapore Armed Forces on what a Joint Force operation is all about. Please read the article below AND LEARN SOMETHING FROM IT.

MINDEF SINGAPORE

The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) conducted a readiness exercise on August 2011. The exercise involved troops from 1st Guards Battalion conducting a battalion coastal hook, supported by elements from the Army, the Republic of Singapore Air Defence (RSAF) and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)

The exercise featured the recapture of an offshore island that had been occupied by an enemy force. Minister for Defence Dr. Ng Eng Hen was present to witness the exercise today at Pulau Sundong. This was the first time Dr. Ng visited an SAF exercise since he took over the defence portfolio in May 2011.

The exercise demonstrated the integration and operational readiness of the SAF. Dr. Ng first observed SAF troops and M113 Armoured Personnel Carriers disembarking from the RSN fast crafts to secure the beach area with support from the RSAF F-16 fighter aircraft and Apache AH-64 helicopters. The troops then proceeded to advance inland supported by Light Strike Vehicles to capture the airstrip located in the centre of the island. After the airstrip had been secured, Dr. Ng saw a Super Puma helicopter deliver additional logistics supplies to the troops and evacuated simulated casualties.

After viewing the exercise, Dr. Ng spoke about the SAF’s readiness and capability to execute a complex exercise involving elements of the three services, as well as the confidence of our soldiers. He said, “They (the soldiers) must have confidence in the machines that we buy, the equipment that they have, their ability to execute these operations. I would say that at a professional level, it is not easy to do it. It is tri-service which means that it involves elements of the Navy, Air Force and the Army. And your command and control systems need to be up to stretch. Your coordination and your ability to excute real time. It is complex”.

Dr. Ng was accompanied by Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Neo Kian Hong and Chief of Army Major General Ravinder Singh.


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION

MALAYSIAN FIRST OR MALAY FIRST

I am getting a bit confused with the argument of whether I am a Malaysian first or a Malay first. DPM Muhyiddin had declared that he is a Malay (I believe of Javanese descent) first, and probably a Malaysian second. In the case of PM Naijb, he is not able to decide whether he is a Malay (I believe of Bugis descent) first and a Malaysian second or vice versa.


Now, since there is so much of confusion created by our leaders themselves who are not certain as to who and what they are at this late stage of the lives, let me therefore make a declaration as to who am I. I am not a Malay but a Malaysian first, and a second generation grandson of a Sumatran immigrant of the Minangkabau clan, second. I do not know whether my grandparents had gone through the process of the biometric finger print by the immigration authorities then. I don’t think so because OP Pasir by the authorities wasn’t there at the time to monitor and to arrest illegal immigrants. I have to declare that I am a Malayan and subsequently a Malaysian first by virtue that I am born in this country and not a Sumatran or Indonesian or elsewhere. This is a logical conclusion.


My grandfather must have been quite a sailor then. He was said to have brought along his entire family members from a place called Semaong, Bukit Tinggi, Sumatra (minus my father who was born here) by sampan, and settled at a village called Petaling, Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan. My grandfather is believed to have three wives that he had brought along, and a third believed to be from Selewasi, Indonesia. If indeed, the third wife is from Selewasi, she therefore must be a Bugis, and I therefore have Bugis cousins that I have never met.


Going by that brief history of my roots, I am therefore not a Melayu or a Malay. I am, as I have declared a thoroughbred Minangkabau, and I am not ashamed to called one. I just do not understand why the Malays need to call themselves as such in the first instant. Most of the so called Malays are the children of immigrants from all over the world, such as from India, Pakistan, Arab, China, Thailand and Turkey and probably from Bangladesh as well. If we claim ourselves to be descended from people of the aforesaid countries, then just say so. Even Najib or Muhyiddin cannot claim they are Malays, because they are of Bugis and of Javanese descent respectively. And why not ask the Perak Menteri Besar whether he is a Malaysian first or a Malay first. I am quite sure you will get a confused answer too.


And this takes me to question why was it that Najib was so reluctant to answer a simple question from a student as to whether he (Najib) was a Malaysian first or a Malay first. The answer Naijb gave is even more confusing when he said that he does not, “want to respond in a way that will divide him from his deputy”. Now, the answer sounds that he is too afraid of his deputy, and gives an impression that there is difference in opinion between the two over the Malaysian first issue. If both cannot even come to a common agreement and understanding over such a basic issue, than I doubt they can both agree over other more complicated issues.


Certainly, I do not want to be confused as our leaders over this issue. Let us just accept that Muhyiddin is a Malay first, while Naijb is not quite certain whether he is a Malay or Malaysian first. But as for me, I am very certain that I am a Malaysian first and a Minangkabau second. Does that satisfy everybody?


CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION.

PALANIVEL TO BE MADE A FULL MINISTER

MIC President G. Palanivel is to be made a full minister in a week’s time say PM Najib. In the first instant, Palanivel is never an elected representative; an unwindable MIC candidate so they say, but is capable enough to be made a Senator, and to be appointed a deputy minister. Now, with him being appointed a full minister is like a school boy being granted a triple promotion. But in the case of a school boy, a triple promotion would mean that he must be no less than a genius. I do not know if Palanivel is an MIC genius, but to be elected the party president, then a senator, a deputy minister and now a full minister, he must be someone close to a genius. Or was Najib looking at Palanivel with a blinkered eye?

The announcement by Najib comes as no surprise to me. With the Indian support for MIC wavering, the only sensible thing to do to placate MIC members is to ‘reward’ its President. I am sure this reward does not come for free. Rather it has strings attached and that strings are an assurance that the MIC remains firmly behind (not in front) UMNO and to remain a trusted partner within the BN. Hopefully too, those MIC fence sitters will now be more convince that Naijb is truly their hero and savior to bring the Indian community out of their doldrums and miseries. They say that Mr. Samy Vellu failed miserably in this respect and losing Sg. Siput in 2008 GE, is the only way of venting anger at him.

I have many Indian friends, some since my formative years. I know their inner feelings, although they would not want to spill out their concerns to me out of respect for my own feelings towards them. I know too that the Indian community is generally not quite happy, and in many ways they have been left out of the mainstream of society. This is not well recognized by the government too and being Malaysians and a minority group, it is the responsibility of the government to ensure the community have equal place in society. I think the main failure with Mr. Samy Vellu to look after his community was because he felt he was above all others, unreachable, aloof and wasn’t really at the core of the many issue and problems confronting the community. He was acting like a superstar of the Indian movies, to be praised and garland everywhere he went.

There are many rich Indians like the billionaire Ananda Krishnan, but then what has he done to help his community. He would have provided a few dollars here and there, but surely the community needs more than monetary help. I do not know where Mr. Samy Vellu is now. Is he in hibernation or is he seeking solace in the cool surroundings of Batu Caves? Surely, having been the MIC boss for so long, he still can contribute meaningfully towards the betterment of his community.

I think I know the Indians well, much more than my many Malay friends. This is because I grew up among the Indian community; since my late father was a government employee and was given a government quarters alongside his many Indian colleagues.

I do not know about Najib or whether he ever had an Indian as his neighbor. But I can assure you that the Indian friends that I have are my loyal friends. And for Najib to give Palanivel a promotion (at a time when the GE is near) I think is a good start for Najib to win more loyal Indian friends to his side to lift his winning chance in the next GE. Finally to Palanivel as a full minister, my hope is that he can perform better than his predecessor.

CRUSADE AGAINST CORRUPTION