Another Year Wiser...

Here's wishing one and all a Blessed, Successful and Healthy 2009.

Let the lessons learnt in 2008, guide us to better things in 2009.
Let the experiences of 2008, inspire us to dream our dreams and make it a reality in 2009.

To seek, to find but not to yield. USAHA HINGGA JAYA!

Busy December...

I have been terribly busy these past weeks leaving me with little time to post my blog. So what has Peter been up to...

I have kicked off the Harapan Negara project (harapannegara.blogspot.com) which is to build a Civil Society of Anak Bangsa Malaysia. A society where Good Governance (competency), Accountability and Transparency - CAT - is a part of our life. We practice it and expect others to practice it too.

However, for the society at large, in order to practice CAT, we must also empower them with awareness and knowledge of what is happening around us.

Therefore, AFP Resources Sdn Bhd has been set up as a resource center. This would be predominantly a Consulting and Training and Event Management company which will help human development of Anak Bangsa Malaysia - to build a competent human resource pool.

The future of Malaysia would truly be in the hands of all of us, Anak Bangsa Malaysia.

To some, this may seem like a dream: but dreams do come true, and all it takes is that first step. Who would have thought/believed that a black man would be in the White House?

What is your stand? To continue to watch from the sidelines and see history being made; or to be a part of it, and make history. Make Malaysia a better place; perhaps not for ourselves, but certainly for our children.

Harapan Negara - A Hope For The Nation.

With the stroke of a pen.....

We are well into December, the season of sacrifice and goodwill.....

While many of us are thinking of what presents to buy for Christmas, the families of many of the ISA detainees are thinking of where the money will come from for their children's school books.

While we are thinking of where to have our Christmas Dinner, the same families are thinking of where the money will come from, to but food on their tables.

And these are families that have been made "single parent families" by the stroke of the pen of the Minister; not by the court of law. And all basic human principles and religion tell us that one is innocent until proven guilty!

All religion also teaches us about justice and standing up for the oppressed. Yes, many of us are standing up for justice; by being present and supporting the No to ISA candle light vigil,for example. Many of us come together as One United Voice; the Suara Anak Bangsa Malaysia. And YES! we can change things - but not immediately.


Meanwhile, the reality is that these families need to continue to live; they need real help. Please read the following blog: http://lailagmi.blogspot.com
Please try to help out in any way you can...

These families are also Anak Bangsa Malaysia; they too are our family, our brothers and sisters. Please do what you can especially for the innocent children, more so, during this, the season of goodwill.

I wish you all: Compliments of the Season!

Harapan Negara - Anak Bangsa Malaysia

I am embarking on a journey to do something positive to contribute to make Malaysia a better place.

I have commited my time and energy to help my community. However, the reality is that doing volunteer work is an expensive hobby. To continue serving the community, we must be sustainable both physically and financially. Otherwise, no matter how passionate and sincere we are, the reality will hit us.

Therefore, with my partners, we are trying to link businesses, the government, NGOs and the community in a smart partnership. We are negotiating for government funds as well as financial backings from the business community.

With these funds, we can be more stable financially and be able to concentrate and commit fully to serving the community.By the Grace of God, we will also be financially strog enough to support and bring on board others to contribute their efforts and energy.

I am starting on a journey to help build a more competent and socially responsible community; a civil society. We have a pool of experts who will lend and share their experiences to train and build a more knowledgeable society. Each of these experts will be available to contribute their time and energy to the community.

Meanwhile, companies who believe and practices Social Responsibilities will be taken onboard as our partners. They will contribute financially as well as share their entreprenurial experiences. In return we will endorse these companies to the government and communities to expand their businesses. These companies, however, must meet the requirements that we would have set for Corporate Social Responsibilities.

Our mission is a Civil Society; practicing Good Governace, Transparency and Accountability at all levels of society. On this mission, our target would be Anak Bangsa Malaysia - One Nation, One Spirit, One Voice - the Voice of Anak Bangsa Malaysia. Our guiding priciples will be the 5 principles of the Rukunegara:
Belief in God - Loyalty to King & Country - Supremacy of the Constitution - The Rule of Law - Mutual Respect and Good Social Behaviour.

May the Good Lord grant me the Strength on this long and difficult journey; the Patience and Love to help others understand; the Blessings and Wisdom to overcome obstacles and challenges and the Humility to continue to bring Glory to His Name.

The Fire in Our Spirits

Last night was the third Candlelight Vigil that I have attended at the PJ Civic Center.

As always, a wonderful crowd, mixed ages but one people: Bangsa Malaysia

Last night, that mystery lady who voiced her rights when she bumped into the Support ISA march the previous Sunday spoke. She related her experience and why she did what she did. One brave woman with a truly burning spirit because of her love for her country.

These Vigils still require a Police Permit which Councillor Richard still goes about applying on our behalf. And it is approved but with the usual clauses of what cannot be done.

The authorities should know by now that they can extinguish the light on our candles (the permit only allows candles for 15 minutes. However, they can never extinguish the fire in our spirit.

And it is this fire in the spirit of the people that will keep going to bring positive changes to this nation. The people gather everyweek because of their love for the country....to make this country a better place for the generations to come.

We sing the State and National ANthem with pride and glory in the true spirit of Patriotism.

And it is the combined fire in our spirits that will bring about the changes. Combined together, it will indeed be the true spirit of Malaysia Boleh! and one united voice: Suara Anak Bangsa Malaysia.

And after ISA, there are still more that this Suara Anak Bangsa Malaysia can do.....

May the Fire In Our Spirits Continue to Burn for a Better Malaysia!

May God Bless Us All

Justice for all....all men are equal

Justice for all....all men are equal
Posted by: petluc
I refer to your report on the Coalition of Malay NGOs and the 5 police reports they lodge.

I fully respect the group's rights to assemble and to march to the police station to lodge their reports.

However, I was just curious to know if this group had a permit; if yes, how come their application was allowed; on what grounds.

If no, than how come no FRU came out and no arrests made.

It was clearly proven that this group was violent in the fact that they even chased a women, who was also exercising her right to shout!

And since the group was already at the Balai, why no arrests made?

Same rule for all?? Nov 9 in PJ, still fresh in my mind

Sad...

The Victory of Good over Evil

As I sit here sending out Divali greetings on my handphone, I feel so proud to be a Malaysian. In our country, we are exposed to the varied cultures in our communities. Whether or not we fully understand each culture, we nevertheless know a little about the celebration of each culture.

Here in Macau, most would not have an idea at all about the Divali celebration. Forget about any knowledge as to say the Oil Bath Ritual etc when they do not even know of the celebration. We cannot blame them as there are hardly any Indians here.
Nevertheless, as a Malaysian, I feel so proud and indeed so grateful. Understanding and celebrating other cultural celebrations has been a part and puzzle of growing up. And it is this knowledge and experience that has made me sensitive to other cultures and the differences. And it has contributed to making me a better person, (I hope ).

It is on this note, that I am thinking that Malaysia would indeed be a much better place if our children are taught more comprehensively about the various cultures. Teaching just the basics would probably not be enough. We need to teach our children to fully appreciate and understand each culture and religion in order that they can respect the differences. It is thus this respect for the differences of each others culture and religion that will bring Malaysia forward.

Happy Divali.

Happy Divali

Here's wishing all my Indian friends Happy Divali. May the light of the festival bring love and joy to our hearts and soul. May the festival bring our nation to enlightenment......that the light will guide our leaders and show them the way.

My heart and prayers go out specially to the families of our Indian friends being held under ISA; just as it goes out to the families of all the ISA detainees too.

Happy Divali.

The Challenegs Ahead....

"The quality and availability of public goods like education, public housing, public health, crime prevention have all declined, while child and aged care and public transport are near inexistent, resulting in a Hobson's choice for the poor and middle class in either facing the decline in living conditions or an ever higher cost of maintaining a decent lifestyle.

A total of 57.8 per cent of the country's 5.8 million families live on a combined monthly income below RM3,000, including 8.6 per cent who make less than RM1,000 per month. The already skyrocketing inflation, and the impending crisis, has hit them really hard.

The dependence on government-related employment and foreign workers over the last decade stops the economy as a whole from moving up the value chain and to respond to a crisis effectively. One in four of Malaysia's labour force is a legal foreign worker while approximately one in four in the workforce works for the public sector directly or indirectly, for instance, in government-linked corporations. The private sector lacks the capacity to innovate and compete internationally, thus hindering its ability to weather the storm.

The challenge of our time is to ensure that there is sufficient food on the table of the almost 60 per cent of our nation's families, and to ensure that their quality of life does not descend further."

With all these problems, we still see in our national papers, the headlines carrying news of the UMNO nomination; of House Speaker rejecting motions, suspending MP for seemingly minute and personal emotional reasons.....hmmm God help us!

There is also the added problems of retrenchment in the Singapore labour market, and thus all these will be back in Malaysia; can we just ignore these social problems?

So, all MPs and elected reps and councillors and all of us; GET REAL! The challenges ahead will be difficult but not impossible to overcome.

God's grace, peace and strength be with us all.

Love and Hatred.....where will each lead us to...

For God so loved the world, that He gave....

As I sit here alone in my apartment, reading news about Malaysia, I cannot but feel sad and truly disappointed.

First there is the Utusan's cerpen about the killing of a Chinese Female YB; have we, Malaysians stoop so low. Where is the love in our heart? What are we teaching our children, it is so obvious that the cerpen is politically motivated.

I urge the leaders to handle this potentialy dangerous situation carefully and swiftly. Bring to task the people responsible for this; for even thinking about it. These are truly the people that should be in Kamunting for inciting hatred and causing fear in our land.

Hannah Yeoh's blog entry titled WIth Great Power Comes Great Responsibility sent me further into the DOWN mood.

When will we ever learn; truly indeed, we have still a long way to go in political and social maturity. We always expect others to do everything and we sit back to watch and comment. We want change , we want freedon but we do not want that responsibility that comes with it.

That is how Malaysia has been governed all these while; give them a little bit here and a little bit there and BN continues to rule. Than on 8th March, some people woke us up, and we all started enjoying this new change. A few weeks down the road, we go back to what we were used to before; sit, talk, complain and complain some more.

These few people who woke us up are still there and will be there to speak up and fight for what is right; even with threats. It is about time we, MALAYSIANS start walking the talk. Stand up and do something!

DO not just talk about injustice; do something about it; even a small gesture. Were you there at the courts when RPK's hearing was taking place? Were you there at the candle light vigils to free the ISA detainees? Or were you at home saying; "aiyooo these people ah.....causing traffic jam only...."

Well, my fellow Malaysians, please walk the talk - let us together give MERDEKA a new meaning.

Let us make change happen, for a better tomorrow for all!

Let us give that little sacrifice as GOD did, that He gavce his only Son......

Hate brings us pain, and only love can bring freedom and change!

Yesterday, today.....

Yesterday I met a stranger...

Today this stranger is my friend. Had I not taken the time to say hello, or return a smile, or shake a hand, or listen, I would not have known this person. Yesterday would have turned into today and our chance meeting would be gone.
Yesterday I hugged someone very dear to me. Today they are gone... and tomorrow will not bring them back. Wouldn't it be nice if we all knew tomorrow would be here? But we don't, so take the time TODAY to give a hug, and a smile....

JUST FOR TODAY,

. ..smile at a stranger
...listen to someone's heart
...drop a coin where a child can find it
...learn something new, then teach it to someone
...tell someone you're thinking of them
...hug a loved one
...don't hold a grudge
...don't be afraid to say "I'm sorry"
...look a child in the eye and tell them how great they are
...don't kill that spider in your house, he's just lost so show him the way out
...look beyond the face of a person into their heart
...make a promise, and keep it
...call someone, for no other reason than to just say "hi"
...show kindness to an animal
...stand up for what you believe in
...smell the rain, feel the breeze, listen to the wind
...use all your senses to their fullest
...cherish all of your TODAYS

Today you were thought about by me....

What next....

September comes to an end now. What lies ahead; the overall economy does not look good - banks collapsing, people panicking.......

One interesting news item in Hong Kong is how these people who bought bonds of these collapsed banks. They bought them through local HK banks, and now when these bonds seem worthless, they blame the bank. They are asking for government's compensation. They claim the banks never told them of the risks involved in buying these bonds.

However, when the opposite happens, these same investors will pocket the profits happily to the bank. I wonder...

Every investment has a risk involved and these investors whould know better. Therefore, it is scandalous when these same investors ask for compensation in such a situation.

Gosh...rich man's talk; surely there are other matters more urgent for the government to consider!

Towards the end of September, October beckons...

As we approach October, I look forward to cooler weather ahead. However, typhoon season may not be over yet. Taiwan was badly hurt again and the storm is heading towards the mainland.

Come October 1st, China celebrates yet another National Day; this year's celebration would indeed be different. It would indeed be a special celebration: The success of the Beijing Olympics plus the success of the Space Mission. Truly good reasons to celebrate!

I am sure people of Chinese origin all over the world are proud of China's achievements. I consider myself MALAYSIAN but I am equally proud of what CHINA has shown to be capable of. My prayer and wish is to see the Chinese giving the West a run for their money; what they can do, the Chinese can do better!!!!

Whilst I would enjoy the Chinese celebration, my heart is still very much in Malaysia; What lies ahead for Malaysia in the coming months - my prayers are for changes for the better....for harmony and peace..and progress!

May this last quarter of 2008, see my dreams and wishes come true.

And The WInd Continues to blow....

This week started slowly but with the bad news that RPK detained for 2 years. Hmmm, all these is just bringing us back a few more steps in our journey towards CHANGE.

I am sure there will be lots more Candle Light vigils - for RPK's and the other detainees' release. Better still, get rid of ISA; it is no longer relevant in its present form!

Over here in Macao, the Typhoon Season continues....yesterday, yet another category 8 warning....causing offices to close early and this morning, offices resumed around 11am.

Last night the storm was strong...so many sign boards were torn down; this morning debris were all over the place. All last night, fire-trucks siren were all over the place, blaring away....

That scenario last night is perhaps what it is like politically in Malaysia. Warning signals all over, and the occassional scare with falling sign boards and lamp posts and uprooted trees.....and what it leaves behind will be debris all over.

The good thing is, it will all blow-over: after some cleaning up, everything is back in order. Better still, having gone through the experience, the next time round, we will tighten the screws on the notice boards a little bit harder, maybe change the location of the lamp-posts and grow stronger deeper rooted plants...

There will always be a silver lining behind the dark clouds.....

My prayers continue to be with RPK and his family, Manoharan and his family and all the rest in detention...

Amen!

The Silver Lining.....

It was a busy day for me today....meetings lunch and meetings. When I got back to office and went online, the great news greeted me: Teresa released!

It is a wonderful news to start the weekend. I quickly sent off a SMS to Teresa. Yes, even from Macau, I do send messages and make calls of support! My little contribution towards Khidmat Negara!

What now?

Hmmmmm, that we will see continuous positive changes in Malaysia. I continue to pray for the other ISA detainees: RPK, The Hindraf 5 and the others.

Meanwhile, PR versus BN, what is happening; there must be changes and I strongly feel that REFORM, there must be!

I look forward to the days ahead!

Dark Clouds .....

I woke up to an SMS informing me that Teresa Kok has been arrested under ISA. This cannot be true; I sent a message for confirmation to Hannah and the reply was positive.

Hmmmm, when I went online, there was also the arrest of the journalist. Plus the earlier arrest of RPK.....

What is my country coming to; it just does not make sense at all - the journalist arrested for doing her job, yet the guy that started it all, is out there? Is there no sense in Malaysia, where is justice? I hope all Journalists in Malaysia will stand-up and protect and defend their rights!

As I follow the events through both the Main stream and alternative media, i cannot help but feel sad for my nation. Especially so in this holy month and on the eve of the mid-autumn festival. Furthermore, we are still in the midst of our month long National Celebration.

I have removed the little Jalur Gemilang that I had flying in my apartment. In its place, will be a candle to be lighted to remind me of the sad state my country is in. It will remain lighted till a ray of hope shines through.

Until than, my prayers for my country; I am nevertheless still proud of being Bangsa Malaysia; that few ignorant guys up there, Malaysia, my great nation; is not theirs to keep! I will defend it ...

Looking In from the Outside

I have been following-up on the Penang guy making such stupid and irresponsible remarks about his fellow citizens. What was worse, was the fact that his leader; the Prime Minister took such a long time to make a decision on what to do. As a result, all kinds of remarks and opinions were expressed through the media.

Two things that were reflected in the whole incident. That racial issues continue to be used and exploited in Malaysian politics; that our Prime Minister is very slow in responding and very indecisive and lack a firm grip of the UMNO members.

One the latter issue, I am looking forward to a change in the leadership. Clearly the imcumbent is not capable of running the country. He is however more than capable in ruining the nation. If he is truly the statesman that he claims to be, he should step aside, now!

However, who is to take over. Clearly, we have limited choices. There is no clear succession plan within UMNO. Can ANWAR truly fulfil his promises and get rid of UMNO, hmmmmmm , the 6 million dollar question! Nevertheless, change is definitely still needed........things can only improve with change.

Back to the first issue, racial politics in Malaysia. We are always so proud to claim that we are a successful multiracial society; and this is where the problem lies. We fail to acknowledge that our success is more from tolerance than anything else. Tolerance, like an elastic band, can only be stretched to a limit, beyond which it would snap! I note sadly that we are near snapping point.

Thus, we have to seriously go back to basics: start respecting each others race and thus cultural and religious background. To respect means to understand not just to tolerate. That understanding starts from school. Thus, it would be many years to accomplish this new generation of Malaysians.

The mind-set change must also come with the political parties. There should no longer be any race based political parties: dare to take that step and be a truly multi racial party, where leadership rights are based not on skin colour but on one's ability. No longer do we first identify your race, because it should no longer matter. It is Bangsa Malaysia.........

How many forward thinking Malaysians are there, to dare make these changes and sell the idea to fellow Malaysians.

Still, I remain optimistic and I will do my part.......

Another Step Towards Change.....

CONGRATULATIONS to all Malaysians and in particular to the people of Permatang Pauh for daring to make a change!

That tsunami of 8th March and the after shocks are still being felt....but we, the Princes and Princesses of the land, have yet to see concrete changes; even in the PR States. However, after 50 years, we can surely wait a few more months.

So, what lies ahead now, is there good reasons to celebrate our 51st birthday this coming Sunday.I would like to see more reflections this Sunday and my birthday wish would be that we learn from mistakes of the past and move on towards a brighter future. It would be a disgraceful failure if what we have coming is the same old thing in a different package!

Lets move towards a truly Malaysian Malaysia - Bangsa Malaysia - where we are one race with different cultural background and religious beliefs - ONE RACE, ONE NATION! Let us move towards being a society of concerned people, a caring society a truly MUHIBBAH Society. A society where we respect each other, treat each other the way we want others to treat us: where salt taste as it should and not leave a bad taste in out mouth.

I regret to read about the SALT Story in today's STAR. see link:

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/8/27/nation/22176985&sec=nation

The Malaysia I hope to see is a Malaysia where we do not seek to exploit each other, but live and work together in harmony, for ourselves not for others to see. There must be sincerity in all that we do.....

Coincidentally, the Holy Month of Ramadhan coincides with our 51st Merdeka Celebration - so let us reflect and enrich ourselves spiritually as well.

May God Bless us all and Guide and Lead our leaders as we move towards a greater Malaysia for all!

The Younger Breed - the next generation

A few months ago, I blogged about an Edward Ling, whom I see as the next generation leader, someone I am proud to have met.....

Today, I add on this short speech that the same Edward Ling gave during the recent DAP Convention, I sure am proud of this young man.....

"Good day,

Leaders of DAP, fellow delegates.

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

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

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

“Phew, finally!” sighed the relieved recruits.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you."

Now you know what I mean about having faith in this guy.....

And the winds came calling again - and my heroes!

Back in Macao on Wednesday and Friday (22nd August) - Typhoon Nuri came calling. This time the typhoon was worst than the previous one. Stronger winds and certainly much more rain!

Gosh, that makes it two Category 8 warnings in a month.

Anyway, it has blown over now and last night was the closing of the Beijing Olympics. An impressive show indeed and Well Done - BEIJING! London has indeed a hard act to follow; but they will of course do just as well - I am sure of that.

What I feel sad is that now we have the Paralympics - the Olympics for the Challenged. These athletes whould be given greater recognition but they have been and continue to be in the shadows.There will be none of the Live telecasts etc and certainly far less media coverage.

These athletes are equally heroes: but society does not think so. :-(

Nevertheless, for me - they will be My HEROES

Lets Get Real...

Back in Malaysia to do Interviews.

Of the 21 people scheduled, 15 turned up. Not too bad.

However, I was kind of disappointed with some of the young people that I met.

They are young, mid 20s - with probably lots more of the world to see. However, some of them are conceited and unrealistic. At mid 20's how much experience can one have: yet these same people are trying to ask for rediculous salary - in axcess of RM10,000. Gosh, I just wonder what planet they are living in.

Many still have this idea that going to work overseas means "expatriate lifestyle" - whatever that means. Now, the world is getting smaller and smaller - working in one country or another really makes not much of a difference. Gone are the days whee you go overseas to work (like the Mat Sallehs in Malaysia ) you live like a Lord. In today's world, it is no longer so.

As young people, I would have hoped that their purposes of going to work overseas is to gain experiences which would not be available locally. Being able to save money is important - but not unrealistic amounts. Mindsets have to change.

Still, I was quite impressed with this lot of people that I saw. These same people, can make Malaysia proud as we "export" them to work elsewhere. I always hold to the principle that when I work overseas (which is most of my time) I am an Ambassador of my country.

When the wind blew.......

Yesterday, the storm warning was at Category 8. This means that people are advised to stay in - as strong wind is forecasted.

I woke up as usual at 6:45 , to prepare breakfast and get ready for work. Turned on the television and heard the Category 8 warning for Hong Kong; changed channel to local Macao Channel and confirmed same Warning for Macao too.

At Category 8, there will be no public transport and most businesses would shut down. Television channels would give 30 minute updates on latest situations.

I stayed indoors - outside, the winds were coming on and off accompanied by rain. Fire truck sirens kept blaring away as trees were being up rooted.

With nothing much to do except the television and reading, it was thus terribly boring. By afternoon, the rain stopped, the winds slowed, wanted to come in to office but as the Category 8 warning remained, thus no public transport.

Went off to the supermarket around 5pm - yeah, thank GOD some were open for business and it was of course packed! The rain however, kept coming and off, sometimes with strong wind, thus making using an umbrella an almost impossible battle.

By 8pm, the announcement that the level has gone down to Category 3 - soon after, the rubbish trucks were already making their rounds, collecting garbage. Such efficinecy!

This morning, the rain is still there, on and off - but the winds are not so strong anymore. I hope it will all get blown away, and tomorrow is Olympic Opening...yeah!

One month and......

Come this Friday, I would have been here for a month. This Friday, 8th August will also be the opening of the Beijing Olympics. This would also be the day I go and place my finger print for my BLUE CARD; that is the work permit here for foreigners.

The past few weeks, it has been really bright, sunny and hot. However, beginning yesterday, strong wind, cloudt and some rain. It is expected that the typhoon will hit by the end of the week!

What a shame - Beijing Olympics - just pray it will not be a wash-out.

I am looking forward to watching the Opening live on tv. Was thinking of going to Hong Kong and join in the crowd at the Open Area where they will show it on large TV Screens....but hmmm the weather does not look too promising.

If it rains in Beijing than pity; no fireworks i guess..:-(

Of course over this last few days, in the news on tv and in print, nothing else but the Olympics. Talk about the weather, the haze...and also the bombing. Yet another terrorist attack in China yesterday.....

I pray for a peaceful Olympics....

hmmmm, Macao oh Macao..

Yesterday, in HKG, a long tiring but interesting day. Tried out the FREE ferry ticket from HKG to Macau. It works....

The Venetian, one of the biggest Casino operator here also runs a Macao-HKG Ferry Service. If you join their Rewards Club (free membership) you can than get FREE tickets on their Ferry. Normal tickets costs around HKD148 (RM60) one way. Only condition is, cannot pre book and only available two hours before the departure.

As it was a weekday, no queue and thus it is practical. I can just imagine the long, long queue at weekends....:-)

This morning, I went to open an account at the bank. However, the banks here have very strict requirements for opening bank accounts, especially when it is for Foreigners. I find this most "unfriendly" and not customer orientated seeing that Macao's economy is completely relying on foreigners.

I went to 3 banks and only one showed any sense of good customer services. Disappointing really. Of course, being me, I made noise, and only than one gets some semblance of sense and service! Gosh, Macao, oh Macao...you have a long way to go....

:-)

Malaysia on the news......

On prime time television last night, there was a mention about ANWAR's Press Conference re the sodomy case. At the weekend, there was a documentary on Lim Guan Eng and Penang. Funny thing was the programme refer to Guan Eng as the CHIEF EXECUTIVE of MALAYSIA.............hmmmmm :-)

Over here, all eyes are set on for the 8th August Olympic Opening. One just cannot escape from being reminded about it.

Yesterday, I was walking around at the newly opened FOUR SEASONS Retail Outlet. I bumped into these two Towering basketball players from the US DREAM TEAM. Gosh, they were tall - reminded me of the Twin Towers :-)

Its all these little things that make one miss home haha.

Last Sunday and again on Monday, I had my meal at a small Malaysian Kopitiam here. Not too pricey neither is it cheap. The food was nothing to shout about but the landlady's service was good - good atmosphere too!

After a few weeks of hot days, it rained heavily on Sunday but only for a short while but it came with strong wind. Yesterday, was terribly hazy and now this morning, the sky is dark; forecast of thunderstorm.

Let's see what the sky brings today....

And more from Macau...

Kind of settled down in my new place. The kitchen is up and running since the weekend. However, accessories are still incomplete, so for now can only cook for two maximum. Other stuff are due in, and until than only basic cooking. Still, feels so much better than outside food!

This week sees the opening of yet another high end retial out at the Four Seasons. We are supplying the staff for 7 outlets - the guys and gals have been having their training over the weekend and also this Monday to Wednesday pending the opening on Friday. They will be trying out their uniforms and having their haircut and grooming sessions.

I am busy making introductions to our clients and the industry. I am also keeping myself to the updated versions of the applicable law governing my industry. The laws are always being ammended! Gosh!

Back in the office, I am streamlining our documents, templates of our contracts and terms.

All in I think the week ahead would be busy and interesting.

My second week in Macau

I moved into the apartment yesterday. Gosh, it was a real summer day - lots of sunshine and sweat.

I moved in and started doing some shopping for household stuff. Still a lot more to purchase to make it a comfortable and homely place. It will come to that - but for now, just basic requirements.

This is much better than staying in the hotel; much more comfortable and relaxing. The television reception is great too, all 50 channels of it! Current favourite channel is CCTV Music Channel.

From Macau .....

I write to you from Macau.

I was greeted here with heavy rain (showers of blessings). I can be contacted in Macau on 00 - 853 - 6650 65 46.

As always I will be keeping a close watch on the Malaysian Scene and blogging on it from Macau. This would mean I am seeing things from a slightly different perspective.

Meanwhile, many Malaysians in Macau in the gaming industry. Saw quite a few of them at the Immigration Department this morning. They were there for their VISA application.

I hope to actually meet up with these Malaysians here over the next few weeks. It would be interesting to see thier viewpoints about working here in Macau and also their take on Malaysia.

Will write more soon.....

Something More To Consider

Another Lesson in Life

In ancient times, a King had a boulder placed on a
roadway. Then he hid himself and watched to see if
anyone would remove the huge rock. Some of the
king's wealthiest merchants and courtiers came by
and simply walked around it. Many loudly blamed the
King for not keeping the roads clear, but none did
anything about getting the stone out of the way.

Then a peasant came along carrying a load of
vegetables. Upon approaching the boulder, the
peasant laid down his burden and tried to move the
stone to the side of the road. After much pushing
and straining, he finally succeeded. After the
peasant picked up his load of vegetables, he noticed
a purse lying in the road where the boulder had
been. The purse contained many gold coins and a note
from the King indicating that the gold was for the
person who removed the boulder from the roadway. The
peasant learned what many of us never understand!

Every obstacle presents an opportunity to improve our condition.

Good Governance and Accountability

http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2008/6/26/central/21600719&sec=central

Make meeting’s minutes available to everyone

RECENTLY, I had the honour of attending a public hearing at the Majlis Perbandaran Subang Jaya (MPSJ). The hearing was to hear the developer's proposal and the residents’ objection to the development of a nine-storey office block.

After this hearing, the objections and concerns raised would be brought to the meeting of the One Stop Centre (OSC) for a decision on the developer's proposal. In fact, what should be brought would of course be the minutes of the hearing plus the comments from the relevant officers in attendance.

I was thus surprised that when a resident asked if minutes of the hearing would be made available to the residents, the answer was in the negative.

I find this extremely strange. As this is indeed a public hearing, therefore the minutes should be made public too. This is to ensure that what is written is in fact what was discussed at the hearing. The minutes would be an important contributing factor to the decision making process of the OSC. Therefore, it is the right of the concerned residents to see the minutes of the hearing.

I am not sure if this is also in the guidelines for the local councils. If indeed it is, I strongly urge the authorities to re-look into this matter. Transparency is a very important contributing factor towards good governance and thus a civil society.

I have had the privilege of attending meetings at the same council and have seen the minutes being wrongly recorded. At a meeting where no decision was made but the subsequent minutes indicated that a decision was made.

Therefore, these minutes must be made available, at the very least to those in attendance. In this case, minutes should be given at least to a representative of the residents.

Good Governance and Transparency

I refer to the report by Chia Ying in today’s STAR Metro, Lee: Application Not The First. http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2008/6/25/central/21624396&sec=central

I am absolutely surprised that an ADUN and / or Local Councillor carries so much authority in local governance. The former Subang Jaya assemblyman was quoted as saying; “There was no need for a public hearing as I had rejected it outright then, because it's a waste of public funds and time…….” He was referring to a developer’s proposal to develop a piece of land in USJ6.

My concern is the fact that an Adun / Councillor can make such a decision with no respect to laid down laws and procedures. Is a developer not entitled to a fair hearing also, if his application is submitted according to laid down guidelines?

In the same way, if an Adun / Councillor can reject outright, as boasted by the ex Adun, then he can also approve an application. Perhaps this answers the question on why there is an apparent over-development in Subang Jaya, especially in the Taipan area. Perhaps, Mr Lee could also explain why a development in USJ11 was approved without the affected residents given the opportunity of voicing their concerns in a Public Hearing. Was it also a waste of public funds, since the ADUN believes in the project?

Now I can understand why we have a local council, MPSJ in particular that seems to have little regard for public interest. Their hands are perhaps tied because we had a bunch of “napoleans” breathing down their necks. When the PM mentioned about these Little Napoleans, we had assumed it was the civil servants, but now it seems it is the BN politicians.

May the newly appointed councillors to be sworn in soon, carry out their duties with due respect to the procedures as laid down. No one; residents, developers or investors are above the law – transparency, accountability and good governance are all we ask for – is that too much to expect?

Education and Politics - HANNAH YEOH

The recent posting in YB HannahYeoh’s blog made me angry and disappointed.
SMKSU Prefects' Reunion
Few months ago, I was invited to the Prefects' Reunion of SMK Subang Utama to be held next week. I just received news that I could no longer attend the function because I'm an assemblyman from Pakatan Rakyat.
Two prefects have confirmed that the teachers have issued a threat to the prefects to withdraw their invitation to me and if not, the event would be cancelled.

Read more:
http://hannahyeoh.blogspot.com/2008/06/smksu-prefects-reunion.html

As I understand it, Education is under the Federal Jurisdiction. After the last election, the Ministry issued a ruling to all principals that they cannot invite “opposition” to officiate school functions. It was indeed a very narrow if not down right stupid thing to do.

However, in this instance, I believe the principal of the school has even carried out this ruling a step further – to control a “private” function and to the extend of “bullying” the current students and teachers.

This brings us to the issue of what is our education policy / education system? It seems like it is made to be an extension of the government’s propaganda machinery (thus an extension of UMNO). The system is not educating but rather indoctrination.

We as concerned citizens in a civil society cannot sit and do nothing about this issue. We must make our stand to safe guard and protect our education system. It is these children in our schools today that will be our leaders. What we teach them now, we will reap in the future.

Our children must be taught to respect DEMOCRACY. In a democracy, the opposition is as much a part and parcel of the system. We must teach our children to honour and respect our Wakil Rakyat irrespective of party.

Infact, all schools should be proud of the achievements of their past and present students. To be elected as a Wakil Rakyat is something to be proud of. However, just because they are from the opposition, we choose not to recognise them, than we are seriously sending a wrong message to our students.

In this case with YB Hannah Yeoh, is also becomes confusing for the students – as she is from the government. Is the school teaching its students to be disrespectful? Are we teaching our children “dirty politics” and abuse of power?

Parents who are reading this, if you do not stand up and do / say something – than we will see the destruction of our education system; and thus our future. Picking up your child and sending them overseas is not the solution! Stand up and stand united and make the Voice of the Rakyat be heard! Lets continue the change that started on the 8th of March 2008.

Somehing to consider....

First Important Lesson - Cleaning Lady.

During my second month of college, our professor
gave us a pop quiz. I was a conscientious student
and had breezed through the questions until I read
the last one:

'What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?'

Surely this was some kind of joke. I had seen the
cleaning woman several times. She was tall,
dark-haired and in her 50s, but how would I know her name?

I handed in my paper, leaving the last question
blank. Just before class ended, one student asked if
the last question would count toward our quiz grade.

'Absolutely,' said the professor. 'In your careers,
you will meet many people. All are significant. They
deserve your attention and care, even if all you do
is smile and say 'hello.'

I've never forgotten that lesson. I also learned her
name was Dorothy.

Cash Rebates - as appeared in STAR (16June) and NST(17June)

Beginning from today, many of us would be making a beeline to the Post Office to collect our rebate of RM625. (your press report refers) This is one of the steps taken by the government to assist the Rakyat to offset some of the hardship following the partial removal of petrol subsidy.

I welcome this move though I reserve my opinion on the question of removing the petroleum subsidy.

My concern here is about the government through Post Malaysia is also looking at a plan for rebate collection by those living abroad. I strongly believe that they should not even bother to waste time on this.

The whole point of the rebate is to assist those who need it, who are directly affected by the higher petrol price; thus it is only restricted to owners of vehicles under 2000cc. Therefore, those who are living abroad, are not paying the higher petrol rates, thus not directly affected by the removal of the petroleum subsidy. They should not be entitled to this rebate.

From your press reports, some parents have argued that their children are studying/working abroad and thus cannot be present in person to collect the rebate.

Well, if a student can own a vehicle and also being able to study abroad, than I believe that this person do not need this rebate! Likewise, someone who is working abroad, is not directly affected by the higher costs in this country. They too do not qualify for the rebate.

Thus, the government should not go out of their way to work out a plan for third party collection of rebate, especially when it is for those who are abroad. Anyway, the existing guidelines allow for this rebate to be collected within a year. There is ample time for these people to claim the rebate.

I feel that even with having to collect the rebate in person, it already has many areas for abuse. Allowing third party collection would be opportunity for greater abuse.

On the same note, I strongly believe that each person is only allowed to claim rebates for one vehicle. If a person can own more than one vehicle, he should infact not be needy, thus not be entitled to the rebate at all. If this person truly feels the financial burden because of the higher price of petrol, than he should just sell off his second or third car.

I urge the government to reconsider the plans to allow this rebate to be claimed by third parties. We must look at the objectives and purposes of giving out this rebate and do not allow for it to be abused. The selfishness of some quarters should not be entertained. We certainly cannot please everybody but we must do so for the majority and stay focused on what we want to achieve.

Happy Fathers' Day

This Posting is adopted from the letter written by Chris Anthony, as published in the NST.

On this special day, I wish ALL FATHERS, a very Happy Father's Day. My father is no longer around, but he will be remembered as he is everyday. To those of you who still have your father with you, cherish him (as well as your mother!)


COME Sunday, it will be Fathers Day. Many of us may be fortunate to still have our fathers with us, alive and healthy. Others may not be that lucky as their fathers may be seriously ill, handicapped or even dead.
On this auspicious day, let us pause and relive the memorable days of our past with our fathers. Let us recall the pleasant as well as the unpleasant experiences we had with him. Many of us are ourselves fathers and only now we understand the feelings of our fathers when they undertook the arduous task of bringing us up to what we are today.

Many of our fathers were not so wealthy to provide us with the luxuries of life. It is not the great material gifts they gave us that we remember and cherish most but their small sacrifices.

We remember the days when, rain or shine, he used to carry us on his bicycle to and from school. We can imagine the sadness in his face when he was unable to give us what we needed.

We remember the smile on his face when we excelled in school, in examination or sports.
We remember the sadness in his face when we left home for the first time to further our studies. We remember the eagerness with which he waited for us each time we return home from college and the elaborate plans he made to spend the short holiday with us.

This is a day to reflect on how we treat our fathers. Are we grateful for what they have done for us? Despite our exalted positions in life, do we still accept them as the respected heads of our families, seeking their advice on all important decisions?

They do not need our money as many of them may not be in a position to enjoy the luxuries of what wealth can provide, but we can spend a little valuable time with them, basking in the memories of the past.

Our fathers may be old and infirm and they may not have much time left. Some of us may even be contemplating sending them to some old folks' home for various reasons. Whatever we do, let us treat them in a manner we will not regret later.

Our attitude and actions today will have a subtle but profound influence on how our children will treat us in the future.

After a 100 days......

We are close to celebrating the 100 days post 8th March 2008.

What have we achieved, have we as MALAYSIANS moved forward after that great LETS CHANGE event? For those who became actively involved in Malaysian Politics, celebrating the Tsunami of 8th March, still filled with excitement and expectations?

For many, I believe, are going back into the world of disappointment. Many are disappointed that the Pakatan government has done little in terms of governing but have spent most of the 100 days digging up shit. Basic and simple things such as appointing Councillors to start getting the local government machinery moving, is still not done. They are still busy playing politics, lobbying and manouvering; not much different from the previous administration. At least, they got things moving....

The excuses of "give us some time", "hey, we just got in la" cannot continue to be used. "Move on!" is what I say. I still have faith in you guys. I do not just talk, I actually walk the talk. I am there lending a hand to help get things moving, especially with our new elected representatives. Together, let's show results!

Anyway, Happy 100 days Anniversary!

Positions as a Political reward - No Way!

It is sad that in the mindset of our Ministers, the positions in the GLC’s are given to people based on their political links. Thus, Mokhzani’s position in Sepang International Circuits Board was given because he was an UMNO member and the son of the than Prime Minister.

Tun Mahathir’s advisory roles in Petronas , Proton and others were because he was the ex President of UMNO.

This is probably one of the contributing factors whereby these companies are not performing as well as they should. We put in people in these companies who probably cannot make positive contributions – except for their ability to pull political strings. The above mentioned two gentlemen may be exceptions, for at least on the part of Tun, he does have excellent management skills after 22 years as Prime Minister! However, after his fall-out with the PM, his views seem no longer valuable to the Boards of Proton and Petronas; what a pity!

This brings to reason why the politicians in the Barisan National are jumping up and down like the proverbial Monkeys with Belacan on their Butt. They are hoping mad when BN party members accept positions in the Pakatan Rakyat led state governments as in Penang and Selangor.

These gentlemen truly have “service to the people” as their personal agenda – irrespective of political links. These are indeed the people we want to see serving the rakyat. I congratulate the Pakatan Rakyat state government for the pro-active move of appointing people based on ability rather than political ties.

Therefore, I await in anticipation for the announcement of Counsellors in the Selangor State local councils. I pray that the appointments will be based on ability and commitment and not political affiliations. These Counsellor positions should not be used as rewards to party members, as has happened in the previous administration. Keep these rewards within the party’s system, give them positions within the party. The counsellors in the Local Government have a very important role to play and these call for dedicated, honest and committed people – and cannot be dished out as rewards for party purposes!

Party based and thus race based politics are out of fashion in the Malaysian political arena. It is high time our politicians realise this and get things moving ahead. Catch up with the times.

This nation is not for bargain – this nation’s assets belongs to the people, not to the party, even if it is the ruling party! May the Good Lord give our BN leaders the wisdom to realise and the courage to accept this fact. Change or be changed. As for the Pakatan Rakyat leaders, move on and not staying on to dig up dirt! May the Good Lord give them the humility to realise that they were not voted in but rather that BN were voted out. Cronism was swept out with the waves of the March8 tsunami.

We are a nation of abundant resources, including human resources. Like all resources, it has to be properly utilised as otherwise it comes to nothing. Put the correct people in the correct position and Malaysia will grow in leaps and bounds. I am still proud to be Malaysian! Hidup Malaysia, Hidup Bangsa Malaysia

The GAS CHAMBER

I do have a long list of names of people and organisations to send to this chamber. Are you on my list? hmmmmmmmm

Anyway, if you need to be in the list, please call me.

Or if you want to be a volunteer and put your A%&£$ in one of the boxes, please email me the latest picture with measurements as well - :-)


pic courtesy of zorro-zorro-unmasked. Thank you Uncle Bernard

My Prayer

God grant me todaya wider view,
So I see others' faults through the eyes of You.
Teach me to judge not with hasty tongue,
Neither the adult ... nor the young.

Give me patience and grace to endure
And a stronger faith so I feel secure.
Instead of remembering, help me forget
The irritations that caused me to fret.

Freely forgiving for some offense
And finding each day a rich recompense.
In offering a friendly, helping hand
And trying in all ways to understand;

That I ...
Am trying to reach an unreachable star.
For the great and small ... the good and bad,
The young and old ... the sad and glad

Am asking today; Is life worth living?
The answer is only in, loving and giving.
For only Love can make man kind
And Kindness of Heart brings Peace of Mind.

By giving love, I can start
To lift the clouds of hate and fear.

Salam Saudara - Saudari

Last night, I had dinner at a Malay café which was located in the compound of the owner’s home. We were seated right infront of the main door of the house. The owner was having some kind of prayer session.

Anyway, visitors were coming to the house. As each group came, we noticed the way the younger ones would go up to the older ones to SALAM them, clasping both hands and bringing it to their lips. Now, it is scenes like this that makes me really and truly proud to be Malaysian.

My dinner friends who normally had negative comments on other cultures commented on the scene. She said; “see, the Malay community still keeps this aspect of their culture. So sad that the Chinese have lost this”.

How true it is. In our multi cultural society, instead of harping on the negative, let us pick up on the positive aspects of each other’s culture and make it a part of our own blend of intercultural mix that we shall call Kebudayaan Malaysia – The Truly Malaysian Culture! It is this soft touches that will bring us forward.

Let us forget the racial bias’ness, negative racial comments etc. I pray that our representatives in the House of Parliament will take note of this and start showing some respect. As our MP’s, people look up to you for leadership.

Name callings cannot be accepted especially from our “leaders” and more so, when in the Honourable House. I think our MP’s are actually cowards because they use the immunity shield of the house to call each other names.

I took offence last week when one MP compared the nuisance in the house to the market. If only the MP can “turun padang” and walk around the market. He would notice that our market folks are about the most polite people around. Everyone is either a “leng loi”, “leng chai” abang, kak; you hear no beruk or monyet from them!

It is thus my wish that this short write-up will bring our attention to the greatness and beauty of the multi cultures in our society. Let us stick to the positives aspects and promote them instead of comparing the negative.

MP’s, please do not compare our markets to the rowdiness of the Parliament. Instead, learn from the market and apply them in Parliament. There is absolutely no harm to call your fellow Parliamentarian, even those from the opposite bench, Saudara/saudari. I always find it rather “strange” to call each other YB??

Thank you.

Let Me Hold Your Hands

Here is a short story with a beautiful message.


Little girl and her father were crossing a bridge. The father was kind of
scared so he asked his little daughter, "Sweetheart, please hold my hand so
that you don't fall into the river." The little girl said, "No, Dad. You
hold my hand." "What's the difference?" Asked the puzzled father. "There's a
big difference," replied the little girl. "If I hold your hand and something
happens to me, chances are that I may let your hand go. But if you hold my
hand, I know for sure that no matter what happens, you will never let my
hand go."


Hold the hand of the person who loves you rather than expecting them to hold
yours...

This message is too short......but carries a lot of Feelings.

Demi Bangsa dan Negara

Yes indeed, like many other Malaysians out there, young and old, I am willing to give up my life to defend my country. This is “tanah tumpah nya darah-ku”. This is where I was born, and this is the land I will protect and defend.

When I say, “Saya rela mengorbankan nyawa-ku untuk mempertahankan Bangsa and Negara ku..” the bangsa I mean is BANGSA MALAYSIA! Having been born after 1957, I am a Malaysian in and out. I am ANAK MALAYSIA – 100%, full stop.

Therefore, I make special reservations when we fight for the freedom of the Hindraf 5. I cannot see myself supporting the cause when it is about 5 Indian guys! However, I support the cause that we should get rid of the ISA completely. Therefore, it is not the 5 Hindraf guys freedom but all detainees held under ISA.

In the same way, I fully support Raja Petra – and the fight to abolish the Sedition Act – not for any racially motivated objectives. We defend our rights to Freedom of Speech; the rights of all of us as Bangsa Malaysia living in a free Malaysia. I will lay down my life to protect our rights for the law to protect us, the citizens of this democratic country. I will fight abuses, where politicians from whatever party it is, abuse their positions for their own goals. We as Bangsa Malaysia, cannot accept any situations where the laws are bended or short-circuited for individuals interest as is obvious in the Raja Petra case.

As a proud Bangsa Malaysia, I will not accept when parliamentarians abuse their position of immunity in the house. The people’s representative cannot and must not insult the handicapped and get away with it. Likewise when they are disrespectful to our royalty, they too should be admonished. However, if they use their position and knowledge to advise on the rights of citizen, on the provisions of the constitution; it is their duty. The parliamentarians who instead harp on and turns it into a racial issue, should be “sent to hell” (meaning to have the full extent of the law on them).

Therefore, I laud the call of the Minister to Drop the ‘ketuanan’ issue unless of course the ketuanan is followed by rakyat; ie ketuanan rakyat. Indeed, as Bangsa Malaysia, we defend our rights, Ketuanan Rakyat is paramount – we are the masters of our own Malaysian Race.

The journey is long and winding but it can be reality when we can stand up and walk the talk. Let’s join hands in this long difficult journey for a better tomorrow for our children and their children.

Just Change It

March 8th 2008, would be a date in our history books: the great political change!
The rakyat, after 50 years of almost absolute rule by Barisan National, decided that enough is enough!

We took the bold step, we exercised our power; the power of our vote and voted for change.

Indeed, the election results were a surprise even to the, what is now known as Pakatan Rakyat. The battle cry of Peoples’ Power and Just Change It had worked. The people wanted change and they got it.

Now comes the days after the change. The government in the four “changed” states are slowly changing. They are introducing reformist ideas but certainly change does not come easy. The new government, apart from just changing must also need to “sell” this change ideas into the minds of the rakyat.

The rakyat who voted for change must also change their own mind-set. The thinking that came about over 50 years cannot be changed overnight but what is more important is the will to want to change. Sadly, most people do not want to see changes, it becomes difficult to handle. Even some politicians from PR still think they are the opposition in these states. Of course our BN friends will not accept the changes and continue to be in a state of denial.

So, despite the “tsunami”, by and large we have not really changed. This has prompted the honourable representative of Subang, Ms Hannah Yeoh to remark in her blog:

“People voted for change but their ways of thinking have not changed. They only expected the government to change but not themselves. For change to effectively be put in place, every person must play their role.”

Yes indeed, everyone of us must play our part in bringing change to this beloved country, to improve on what we already have and move forward in leaps and bounds.

However, the first step is to want to change. It will take a long time for change to really take place but all journeys begin with that first step.

Are we prepared to accept that nothing comes from just opening our mouth and complaining? We can complain but to see changes we must do our part to play our role. If we see something wrong, we must be willing to take that extra step and correct it rather than just talk and complain.

We must also realise that “under table”, “duit kopi” etc are all in the past. The changes that came about on the 8th of March swept out all these.

When we do something, it is not for the return of a favour later on. Yes, to show appreciation is a part of our Asian culture and we must keep that. However, we must see within ourselves the sincerity of these appreciation and the true meaning of each gift or token that is given. Infact, I encourage us to show appreciation by giving back what we have received.

If someone has helped us in a physical way, return that by helping out someone else. This way, that love shown to us, will shine on others too. It would have been wasted if after being helped by someone, we buy them an expensive gift. Than at the next moment we turn a blind eye to someone who needs help. To me, that expensive gift would be worthless!

We should also change our mindset to think that with money, we can buy all kinds of favours from within our community or from the government even. We took that first step towards change and lets continue that long journey. If each one of us, will stand-up against corruption, discrimination and abuses; things will change! Lets walk our talk instead of just barking.

If you get a summons for illegally parking, go pay up! You deserve it! Let’s all forget about that little RM10 tip. Let’s forget about going to the someone that you know, or the someone you voted for to help you cancel that summons. The “I know someone who knows someone else” mentality was swept out with the tsunami.

Likewise, we should not see our elected representatives as miracle workers, as people who would side track the rules for you. Forget about building first and getting our approvals later as was commonly practised previously. Forget about the fact that we are a big company, we can bully our way through the bureaucracy! Those days in Malaysia are on the way out.

We, the rakyat should continue to play our part, to expose all these irregularities and set us on the straight path again. It is indeed a road less travelled before but it leads to good governance, transparency and accountability. That is the change we all asked for. Lets just do it!

To all our elected representatives from both divides, join us in the journey along this road of change. We push, you lead. As you lead, hold on to these great words from YB Hannah Yeoh:

“I will NOT allow myself to be purchased by "favors", "hidden costs" or "gifts". I have an allegiance to God and my people to stay clean in the performance of my duty as a state assemblyman” Amen!

Good Bye To My Sister-in-law

Yesterday, travelled up to IPOH to bid farewell to my sister-in-law. She passed away on Sunday morning after a 2 years struggle with cancer.

May she rest in peace, to be free from the pain.

Her daughter, my niece JULIANA, is in London sitting for the finals of her Bar Exam. She is unable to return to bid her farewell. We all pray that the Good Lord will bless and guide her and give her strength in this difficult moment. May she see this not as a trial but as a challenge to strengthen her faith; as a preparation to face the challenges of life ahead of her.

Amen

Our Future Is In Their Hands

Edward Ling, The Political Secretary to Hannah Yeoh. Now, this is one of the younger breed of guys with something in their heart. They need our support, our prayers and encouragement. They are our future.

Edward is indeed one I am proud to have met, proud to know him and am inspired by what he stands for.

Read more about him/ Click on the link below

http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/mni/new-breed-of-malaysian-political-activists/showall.html

..Ah Beng to help you relax (thank you Zorro)

Ah Beng bought a new mobile.
He sent a message to everyone from his Phone Book & said,
'My Mobile No. Has changed.
Earlier it was Nokia 3310. Now it is 6610'

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Ah Beng : I am a Proud, coz my son is in Medical College.
Friend: Really, what is he studying.
Ah Beng: No, he is not studying, they are Studying him

Ah Beng : If I die, will u remarry?
Wife: No! I'll stay with my sister. But if I die will u remarry?
Ah Beng : No, I'll also stay with your sister.

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Ah Beng : People consider me as a 'GOD'
Wife: How do you know??
Ah Beng : When I went to the Fisherman's Wharf at Taman Desa last night, everybody said,
Oh GOD! U have come again.

Teacher: 'I killed a person' convert this sentence into future tense
Ah Beng : The future tense is 'u will go to jail'

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Ah Beng told his maid: 'Go and water the plants!'
Servant: 'It's already raining.'
Ah Beng : 'So what? Take umbrella and go.'

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A man asked Ah Beng why Ahmad Badawi goes walking in the Evening and not
in the morning Ah Beng replied Ahmad Badawi is PM not AM

of parliament and live telecasts

I turned on my television set this morning with full anticipation of watching history in the making. My pride turned to disappointment which turned to disgust!

Our parliamentary sitting was being televised live for the first time. It is indeed a step forward although it is only for 30 minutes.

I took offence when the speaker refused supplementary questions because the question time was being telecast. It was not mentioned as such but it was in a way implied. Now, my point is, whether there is live telecast or otherwise, the proceedings should be carried out accordingly. Proper procedures should be followed irrespective of telecast or not!

The cameras are there so that the Rakyat can catch a glimpse of what is actually happening in the august house. The MP’s do not need to be actors for the camera as they are not there as artists but as the people’s representative!

Infact, the speaker himself seems to be playing to the cameras by disallowing supplementary questions for fear of lack of time. It would also appear that the line up of questions and the prepared texts of replies too were being planned for the cameras.
This should not be so.

What was worse was the news that followed this morning’s telecast. The Information minister was considering to cancel the live broadcast.

Shabery said he would not allow the proceedings to be telecast live in full until the Opposition MPs start behaving like “first class MPs”.
“They act like third class MPs, which was proven today, and I feel that to broadcast it in full would be a waste of taxpayers' money. Maybe some people like to see the circus, but Parliament is not a circus,” he said. (The STAR)
What we saw on television was only of the MP’s both government and opposition acting and behaving as they actually do. There is nothing wrong is letting the rakyat see this, uncensored. If MP’s choose to misbehave in Parliament, so be it; let the rakyat, the people who voted them in, decide their fate at the next elections. It is not for the Minister to decide for the rakyat!
If the people decide after watching the way Gobind stood up to defend a point of principle, that he is wrong, let the Puchong people tell him. If the people in Rembau felt offended with pictures of their MP, pointing fingers rudely at something in the august house, let them do the necessary!
Malaysians have grown up! Let the ministers and MPs remember that. The MPs would be held responsible for their own actions on and off cameras. Our leaders should not insult our intelligence and make decisions for us!

The Good Old Days - bring it back!

I remember that I used to enjoy going to visit my friends living in the kampong located behind our house in Penang. It was a mixed race kampong. We were living in the government bungalows at Lahad Road; our house help, the trishaw pakcik and others were from that kampong.

All the bungalows in the area including the low rise apartments had no fencing. Similarly, the houses in the kampong too did not have any fencing. Most of the time, the doors to our house, as well as to the other houses both the bungalows and those in the kampong were left open. Perhaps this is what Open House really means.

Everything was peaceful; very few cases of housebreaking and theft. As children, we were running in and out of each others homes. We enjoyed our childhood. We were blessed with the life and soul of community living.

I recall how when my friends went through their passage to adulthood ceremony; the circumcision, the other boys were there to lend our moral support. When they had their religious classes, we were hanging around outside waiting for them to finish so we can go back to being the police or thief.

Today, we still have this kampong, community living atmosphere in the cities. We call them apartments or condominiums. The compound are fenced-up with private security guards on duty. Despite the fencing and guards, most of our doors are kept tightly shut with perhaps two or three sets of high quality locks and latches!

We call this progress and development but in truth we are losing our freedom, we are caging ourselves. Our confined space than contributes towards increasing our stress levels and blood pressure. We hardly know our neighbours; and when we do meet them it is just that pretentious smile and a quick hi-bye routine.

Lets ask ourselves; if you are out and something is being delivered to your home, do you have your neighbours telephone number? Can you call him/her to accept the item on your behalf first? Oh, by the way, do you even know who your neighbour is? Sad isn’t it?

I have been going round many apartments and condominiums meeting owners and residents to share information about the formation on the Joint Management Body to manage these properties. I always have the same feeling in these places be it a middle cost apartment or in a high end condominium.

I always get the feeling that many residents are suspicious of each other. Many residents know the face but do not really recall their neighbours name. Infact, if they bump into each other on the streets, they may not acknowledge each other.

Where is that community spirit – that good old kampong, all neighbours are my family feel? I say the fault lies within each and everyone of us. Lets get out of our shell; bring back that glorious good old days of true My Community, My Family. RUKUN TETANGA, Semangat Muhibbah!

Gobind - The True Statesman

I attended the briefing at MPSJ today, chaired by the MP of Puchong.
The briefing was concerning the impact of traffic to Taman Wawasan due to the SETIA WALK Project.

Residents were opposed to the Traffic Light proposed by the developer. An alternative was proposed by the residents.

The chairman wasted no time in addressing the issues at hand. He took no nonsence from either the developers, their consultants nor the residents. The way he conducted the meeting, the questions he posed left no doubt in anyone's mind that this man means business!

If indeed and I believe he will, carry this to the Parliament, I have no doubt that the Rakyat's voice will be heard. To the people of Puchong, CONGRATULATIONS! for putting a great man to be your representative in Parliament.

Keep your eyes and ears glued to the parliamentary sittings - and watch out for this man, your MP - YB Gobind Singh Deo!

My Vision and Prayer

And finally the Selangor State Assembly members have been sworn in. They are now officially the elected members – the Wakil Rakyat.

Congratulations to all – specially to the New Speaker and Deputy Speaker. Indeed, history has been created. This truly is the change that the Rakyat is looking for when we exercised our vote on 8th March 2008.

The new State government must also remember their role is to serve the Rakyat. Thus it is the welfare of the Rakyat that comes first before anything else. Therefore, the appointments of individuals to positions of responsibility should have this as its priority over and above the political loyalty.

It is therefore most commendable for the Penang Chief Minister to appoint a member from the opposition coalition into some of the state’s agencies. It is putting the people’s welfare first – putting the best man, in his opinion, - for the job.

I sincerely hope the Selangor State Government would also be doing this. Even having a member from BN as councillor in the local governments would be a good thing. It can automatically be a check and balance; good governance and transparency!

We must not forget that we are all human and have our own individual weaknesses. Power can corrupt as we have seen it happen before. We cannot allow that to happen again in our community. Therefore, the new State Government should put in place measures to self-check themselves and what better way than appointing even BN members into the state agencies.

Ultimately, and I repeat it again – it is the welfare of the Rakyat – that is paramount.

It is thus very sad and disappointing to read about the seating arrangements in the Johore State Assembly. Opposition ADUNs were given seats right at the back. We must not forget that Opposition and the Ruling Party, jointly become what we call and respect as Democracy. The Opposition must be given the due respect being a component of Democracy.

The Opposition’s role is the check and balance in the system of democracy. They should rightly be placed right in front, opposite the leaders of the ruling party. If the Johore State Assembly cannot even respect this basic principle, than they have not respected the principles of Democracy: they have not respected the rights of the Rakyat.

Even after 50 years, there is yet so much more for all of us to learn. I am sure I speak for the Rakyat when I say, all is not lost yet! Let’s keep on moving ahead after that giant leap we took on the 8th of March 2008.

BN, PR and the Rakyat, to paraphrase a quote from the Prime Minister, Let’s not work for anyone, but let’s work together; for our nation, our Malaysia.

I SUPPORT 100% - Are you with me?

Hey, let’s cut this racial crap. Let’s get rid of all this bullshit. We will fight for the release of the HINDRAF 5 because they are innocent victims, not because they are Indians.

NO HOLDS BARRED

Raja Petra Kamarudin

What’s with this FREE THE HINDRAF 5 campaign? Hey, I too support the HINDRAF 5. I too want them freed. But I do not agree to a FREE THE HINDRAF 5 AND ONLY THE HINDRAF 5 campaign. I want to see a FREE ALL ISA DETAINEES AND ABOLISH THE ISA campaign. Is that too much to ask for? And why should I not want to ask for that?

Since the ISA became law in 1960, an estimated 6,000-10,000 people have been detained under this draconian detention without trial law. No one knows the correct figure because the government does not reveal the actual figures -- so we can only make an educated guesstimation. But we act as if only five Indians were ever detained under the ISA. Hey, hear this, an estimated 6,000-10,000 Malaysians have been detained under the ISA, not just five Indians. And do you know how many still languish in the Kamunting Detention Centre? And how many are there still in Simpang Renggam under Emergency Ordinance detention, all victims of detention without trial because there is no evidence to put them on trial?

I also hear shouts calling for the detention of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad under the ISA. I am against that. If the ISA is wrong then it is wrong. We can’t use a wrong law to do what we think is the right thing and then try to pretend it is right. Rape and murder is wrong. But if we arrest a foreign spy who works against the interest of this nation, can we then rape and murder her and then say it is right because she is an enemy of the state? Wrong is wrong and can never be right, whatever the reason we may have in doing that particular wrong deed.

Okay, today, five Indians have spent the last few months under ISA detention. Yes, five Indians who are alleged to be dangerous people who have links with Sri Lanka Tamil Elam terrorists and who plan to bomb and kill innocent Malaysians. But Malaysians do not believe this allegation. Malaysians do not trust the government’s version of the ‘truth’. Malaysians know that this allegation is false. The only reason these five Indians have been detained is because they oppose the Umno-led Barisan Nasional government.

What about the scores of others who are still under detention in Kamunting, some for more than six or seven years? They too have been accused of having links with international terrorists groups. They too are alleged to have planned to bomb and kill Malaysians. But no one cares about them. If they are Malay-Muslims then the allegations must be true. But if they are Indian-Hindus then the allegation is false. We can believe that the government will detain Malay-Muslims because they are really and truly terrorists and the government is not lying. But when it comes to Indian-Hindus then the government is lying.

Do you know that many Malays have been detained under ISA just because they left Islam to become Christians? Do you know that many Malays have been detained under ISA because they do not follow the Sunni sect of Islam but believe in the Shi’a or some other sect? And these people are not ‘stupid’ kampong people. These people are university lecturers and professors who are well-educated and well-read and, after much research, decided that some other religion or some other sect of Islam is more accurate and correct.

No, not only five Indians are still in Kamunting. Many others are there as well. And you people reading this do not even know how many are still in Kamunting. And you also do not know why they are still in Kamunting. And you do not know because you do not care. But you know about the HINDRAF 5. That is because you only care about the HINDRAF 5. And you do not care about the others because they are not Indians.

Hey, let’s cut this racial crap. Let’s get rid of all this bullshit. We will fight for the release of the HINDRAF 5 because they are innocent victims, not because they are Indians. And we must also fight for the release of all the others because they too are innocent victims, just like the HINDRAF 5.

And what about BSA Tahir? He too has spent many years under ISA detention? What was his crime? None! Is he a threat to national security? No! Is he a danger to Malaysia? No! Did he plan to bomb and kill Malaysians? No! Then why is he under ISA detention? He is under ISA detention because he was the adviser to the Prime Minister’s son’s company and they exported centrifuges to Libya. Why is that considered a crime? It is considered a crime because Libya is not America’s friend. But if Libya were America’s friend then that would not pose a problem and it would not be a crime.

So, BSA Tahir will be under ISA detention until the day Libya kisses and makes up with America. So, until then, we shall fight for the release of the five Indians but not for the release of BSA Tahir or the many Malays who are also under ISA detention just because they wanted freedom of religious beliefs.

No, I will not support the fight for the release of the HINDRAF 5 if the fight is because they are Indians. I will support the fight for the release of the HINDRAF 5 if the fight is because the ISA is cruel and NO ONE should be detained without trial. And that would include everyone still in Kamunting, not just the five Indians.

SETIA WALK - TRAFFIC WOES

There will be a Hearing at MPSJ on the Traffic Woes at Pusat Bandar Puchong due to the SETIA WALK Project.
Representatives of Pusat Bandar Puchong will be in attendance to propose a few alternatives to help minimise the potential traffic problems.
The Hearing will be attended by YB Teresa Kok, the ADUN for Kinrara.

MPSJ - Level 1
2:30pm - Thursday, 24th April

MOVE ON - An Open Letter to the YB's

It has now been over one month since the PRU-12. The Federal and State governments have been formed. However, it is sad to note all kinds of blaming and excuses, analysis and explanations on why some have lost and others won. We read this everyday in all the main stream media as well as in the alternative media in cyberspace.

Whether it is the Barisan National or Pakatan Rakyat ruling, one thing remains; we are still an Asian community with great and admirable culture. One of these is the fact that our culture teaches us to learn from our mistakes. Our culture also teaches us not to gloat over our victories.

Therefore, it is sad to read the news of how our politicians still refuse to admit defeat and learn. Instead, some choose to live in denial. I quote Marina Mahathir in her column: Living in Denial

"Denial is a dangerous trait to have because it blinds us to problems we need to confront in order to solve them"

To those who lost, dare to admit it, dare to fail. There is absolutely nothing wrong in failure but everything wrong when we do not learn from it. It is only when they learn and change that they may win the next time round!

Similarly, for those who won, that victory comes with a lot of responsibilities. All eyes are on you to perform and deliver. The priority is to deliver first and than to correct the previous mistakes; not fault finding to punish and gain political mileage. The same people that voted you in can also vote you out; and it is these same people who voted you in, who is watching you. You owe it to the rakyat to perform and deliver.

Therefore, I urge all parties to practice our Asian culture; learn from our mistakes and be humble with our victories.

Most important of all, let us move ahead. We cannot afford to have our country to remain on election mode and be static, whilst the rest of the world moves ahead. When this happens, it actually means that we have gone backwards. We cannot afford for this to happen.

So to all elected representatives – even when you have not been sworn-in yet, you have a duty to perform. And you were elected to represent the people, not your political bosses. Get a move on; proof your worth. To those who were not elected this time round, remember, during your campaign, you promised to serve; even in defeat, you can still serve!

Hidup Malaysia, Maju Malaysia! Malaysia-ku Gemilang!