Its Saturday again, the 8th after the historical 709 BERSIH march. Im sitting here with my Samsung Tab reflecting back on that great day.
Yeah, it was truly a special day and it brings a smile to my face each time i think, talk or recall that special day. I still distinctly remember having tears in my eyes while joining hundreds of others in singing the National Anthem on Petaling street. Smiling and shaking hands with complete strangers and friends, what an experience.
But now two months on, I wonder if that oomph, that 'semangat' is still burning inside us? It is still burning in me, to see Free and Fair elections come GE13. Of course the million ringgit question is when will be the GE13?
I feel sad to speculate that GE13 will come only after a turbulant time in Malaysia following Anwar's imprisonment. Yes, I am definitely sure he will be sent in yet again. Reformasi v2.0 cum BERSIH v3.0 will be a reality. This time round even more rakyat will be out on the streets. International attention will be even more than before.
UMNO will pull out all stops to 'fight' for their survival, grasping like a drowning man. Yes, it will indeed be a difficult moment for the nation but one that we would nevertheless have to go through. I just pray that there will be minimal blood shed and minimal damage and economic loss.
Emerging from that will be GE13 which will bring Malaysia into a new political chapter in our nation's history. What will we become after that?
I see changes but not immediate. Change will come slowly and i would rather see it come slowly but sustained instead of drastic but not long lasting.
The key factor would be in the hands of civil society who must keep the politicians in check. The new generation politicians must engage civil society to help bring Malaysia forward and to survive.
Showing posts with label 2centsWorth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2centsWorth. Show all posts
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Friday, September 2, 2011
It has been 3 months since my last posting. The past 3 months have been interesting, challenging and thought provoking. Now on the 3rd day of syawal, after a very relaxing short break, i sit reflecting on what I have gone through.
I start with my sad reflection of my nation's 54th Independent year.
I call it Independence Day and not Freedom or National Day. It is certainly not National Day as Malaysia was not formed on 31st Aug nor was she formed in 1957. On this date and year, the Brits left our homeland but the rakyat did not grt their freedom. Malaya was free from British colonisation, but Malaysia was yet to be formed.
Thus, we commemorate our Independence but we certainly do not celebrate our National Day nor is there cause to celabrate our freedom or Merdeka.
I noticed there are very few Jalur Gemilang flying either on vehicles or on buildings. This is despite the government's concerted effort to encourage people to fly the flag.
This is a loud and clear message from the people that the government should be listening to and respecting it. There is indeed little to celebrate but a whole lot to reflect on.
Apakah ertinya kemerdekaan apabila negara kita masih dalam keadaan darurat?
Apakah ertinya kemerdekaan kalau rakyat tidak bebas bersuara atau berhimpun secara aman?
I certainly see that the state of our nation today is because those who came before us chose to be silent.
Can we continue to be silent? A regime will continue to rule with little care and respect for the rights of the people if the people continue to be silent for whatever reason: fear, ignorance or simply because they are not bothered.
I appeal to my fellow Malaysians to give serious consideration to what kind of a nation you want to leave for your children and the next generation.
We cannot afford to remain silent. We owe it to our children to leave for them a nation that is truly independent and free where there is justice and rule of law.
We must give oud children a cause to fly the Jalur Gemilang with pride and to celebrate MERDEKA!
I start with my sad reflection of my nation's 54th Independent year.
I call it Independence Day and not Freedom or National Day. It is certainly not National Day as Malaysia was not formed on 31st Aug nor was she formed in 1957. On this date and year, the Brits left our homeland but the rakyat did not grt their freedom. Malaya was free from British colonisation, but Malaysia was yet to be formed.
Thus, we commemorate our Independence but we certainly do not celebrate our National Day nor is there cause to celabrate our freedom or Merdeka.
I noticed there are very few Jalur Gemilang flying either on vehicles or on buildings. This is despite the government's concerted effort to encourage people to fly the flag.
This is a loud and clear message from the people that the government should be listening to and respecting it. There is indeed little to celebrate but a whole lot to reflect on.
Apakah ertinya kemerdekaan apabila negara kita masih dalam keadaan darurat?
Apakah ertinya kemerdekaan kalau rakyat tidak bebas bersuara atau berhimpun secara aman?
I certainly see that the state of our nation today is because those who came before us chose to be silent.
Can we continue to be silent? A regime will continue to rule with little care and respect for the rights of the people if the people continue to be silent for whatever reason: fear, ignorance or simply because they are not bothered.
I appeal to my fellow Malaysians to give serious consideration to what kind of a nation you want to leave for your children and the next generation.
We cannot afford to remain silent. We owe it to our children to leave for them a nation that is truly independent and free where there is justice and rule of law.
We must give oud children a cause to fly the Jalur Gemilang with pride and to celebrate MERDEKA!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Inflation, Price Increase and Subsidies
My Thoughts, week ending 21st May 2011
This week ended with talks or rather; with the UMNO Regime “preparing” the rakyat with news of the forthcoming price increase for RON95.
I am not one who advocates subsidies but as Najib has said, subsidies are like opium and the rakyat are addicted.
Therefore, it is very important indeed for the administration to look at its priorities especially when it comes to cutting subsidies.
Removing subsidies for RON95 and for sugar and diesel (as announced recently) are definitely not the way forward. These are basic items which will also be the “multiplier” – thus an increase in price would bring along a rolling effect on the price of many more basic necessities.
Whilst the UMNO regime has reported an inflation rate of 3% the truth and reality on the ground is that price of household items and basic necessities have increased by an average of 10% year to year with no corresponding increase in salary.
Thus at this point in time, reducing subsidies for RON95 as part of the administration’s subsidy rationalization plans is definitely not the way.
What more with the recent Bank Negara’s announcement of an increase in base rates means the rakyat would be burdened with higher loan repayments.
The average Malaysian family spends over 40% of their income on purchasing basic household necessities. Thus a big portion of our expenditure will be further hit by an increase in price of basic necessities.
Therefore with these real figures it would definitely not be morally right for the administration to even consider a reduction in the subsidies for RON95. Not at this point in time anyway.
What should rightfully be done instead is to have the political will to regularize the subsidies given that does not bring direct benefit to the lower income communities. Subsidies given to the Independent Power Producers for example, must definitely be re-looked at seriously.
Similarly, tightening the belt by the administration and leadership must be given serious priority. Unnecessary and wasteful spending must be curbed. Good governance and competency must be real and not just be given lip-service.
Public transportation must be on top of the list of priorities that the administration need to reform. The services must be efficient, user-friendly and affordable where the rakyat would be proud to use it and would encourage others to use it too.
Introducing minimum wages would be another way to spread the burden with businesses. With bigger take-home pay and thus stronger spending power, an increase in price of basic necessities due to reducing subsidies would bring lesser impact.
Yes I remain a proponent of rationalization of subsidies. The nation’s economic status must be real; based on real figures and not on these “subsidized reality”. There must come a point in time when we free ourselves of the addiction as suggested by Najib or as the doctor said,” we must get rid of the crutches.”
This week ended with talks or rather; with the UMNO Regime “preparing” the rakyat with news of the forthcoming price increase for RON95.
I am not one who advocates subsidies but as Najib has said, subsidies are like opium and the rakyat are addicted.
Therefore, it is very important indeed for the administration to look at its priorities especially when it comes to cutting subsidies.
Removing subsidies for RON95 and for sugar and diesel (as announced recently) are definitely not the way forward. These are basic items which will also be the “multiplier” – thus an increase in price would bring along a rolling effect on the price of many more basic necessities.
Whilst the UMNO regime has reported an inflation rate of 3% the truth and reality on the ground is that price of household items and basic necessities have increased by an average of 10% year to year with no corresponding increase in salary.
Thus at this point in time, reducing subsidies for RON95 as part of the administration’s subsidy rationalization plans is definitely not the way.
What more with the recent Bank Negara’s announcement of an increase in base rates means the rakyat would be burdened with higher loan repayments.
The average Malaysian family spends over 40% of their income on purchasing basic household necessities. Thus a big portion of our expenditure will be further hit by an increase in price of basic necessities.
Therefore with these real figures it would definitely not be morally right for the administration to even consider a reduction in the subsidies for RON95. Not at this point in time anyway.
What should rightfully be done instead is to have the political will to regularize the subsidies given that does not bring direct benefit to the lower income communities. Subsidies given to the Independent Power Producers for example, must definitely be re-looked at seriously.
Similarly, tightening the belt by the administration and leadership must be given serious priority. Unnecessary and wasteful spending must be curbed. Good governance and competency must be real and not just be given lip-service.
Public transportation must be on top of the list of priorities that the administration need to reform. The services must be efficient, user-friendly and affordable where the rakyat would be proud to use it and would encourage others to use it too.
Introducing minimum wages would be another way to spread the burden with businesses. With bigger take-home pay and thus stronger spending power, an increase in price of basic necessities due to reducing subsidies would bring lesser impact.
Yes I remain a proponent of rationalization of subsidies. The nation’s economic status must be real; based on real figures and not on these “subsidized reality”. There must come a point in time when we free ourselves of the addiction as suggested by Najib or as the doctor said,” we must get rid of the crutches.”
Sunday, April 17, 2011
And the verdict is - MONEY SPEAKS!
Malaysian politics is certainly a roller-coaster ride…..it goes up and it goes down but the only consistent factor is that the rakyat will vote for money.
All the recent by-elections were lost by Pakatan Rakyat because of two consistent factors outside of their control: ie Money and Postal Votes. These by-elections should be renamed BUY-elections.
So what can be done?
Pakatan Rakyat and especially PKR has lots to learn and change. Learn from past failures and learn from DAP’s campaign style and strategies.
PKR and to an extent PAS is still campaigning the old ways – the BN style. Sweet talk the rakyat, dish out a few candies here and there, “whack” the opponent. This approach does not work for PR because we lose out to BN’s huge machinery and endless bank account.
Look at DAP – their campaign is based on MARKETING; they sell themselves and their achievements with a mascot and theme song too. They even have cuddly toys that supporters buy and the voters see themselves as being a part of the whole campaign. It has been proven to work and being able to overcome even BN’s machinery and money.
We can argue that DAP’s win is because of the Chinese voters who cannot be easily bought. This is true too so BN may just spend more and do more in Chinese areas before the next General Elections.
So what is the next step for Pakatan Rakyat?
PR must seriously look into the issues that they are campaigning on. PKR’s approach of defending Anwar Ibrahim at all costs against Najib can no longer work. The REFORMASI struggle is no longer relevant if it remains focused on DSAI only.
Word on the ground in Sarawak is that they want to know what Pakatan Rakyat can do for them in real terms. They want to know how they can continue to earn a living and that their rice bowls will be protected.
The general man on the street in not bothered with talk of Justice for Teoh Beng Hock , of Kugan or Amirulrashid. In Sarawak for example, if a few people from Semenanjung is banned from entering Sarawak, so what – they are not bothered. If Taib is corrupt, so what – as long as I still can earn a living even though I dun have pipe water or electricity. I can still manage with a generator that the good BN government gave my village.
Clean and fair elections and a corruption free government: that is your problem. It does not matter to me – even when PR becomes government you cannot be clean. All politicians are the same. So I better stick with the ones I know from before.
So even here in Semenanjung, basic bread and butter issue matters to the makcik and pakcik in the kampong and they are the majority. Lopsided contracts, human rights are terms that are alien to them.
In as much as we are all concerned about these matters and it is these issues that form the basic fundamentals to our struggle, it does not work in an election campaign in the interiors and in the villages.
Even DAP’s wonderfully managed marketing campaign will not work in the interiors and in the villages.
Therefore PR must relook and rebrand themselves in order to have a fighting chance come the next GE. Perhaps, learning from DAP; PKR and PAS must start a Marketing Style campaign for the villages and the general middle and lower middle class Malay community.
It is undeniable that PR has got the Chinese and middle-class Malays and Indians in the pocket but PR must keep them in the pocket. PR has lots more to do to get into the hearts of the middle and lower-middle class Malays and Indian voters.
PR must be seen to be able to put food on their tables and a roof over their heads. PR must be seen to be able to give them a sense of security instead of being seen as people that always go protesting this and that; issues that they do not really understand.
For the urbanites, PR must ensure that in the States that they are governing now, pothole are patched, traffic lights are working, drains are flowing and developments controlled and sustainable. These issues if resolved assures that votes remain in PR pockets.
So the difficulty is in the bread and butter issues. BN has done a great job in telling the people that PR cannot do anything because they have never done anything. BN is right too because PR has never been in government to be able to do anything nor does PR have the money to do anything. So PR’s marketing must focus on educating the rakyat on PR’s current limitations and creating that dream of what PR can do and will do once in government.
Creating that dream (Yes We can) is what won Obama the presidentship. PR must likewise create that dream and certainly move away from REFORMASI and the DSAI shadow. Perhaps PKR should swallow humble pie and clinch on DAP’s ” UBAH” battle cry for the coming GE13 – and that dream of Putrajaya can indeed become a reality.
Berkhidmat Untuk Rakyat.
All the recent by-elections were lost by Pakatan Rakyat because of two consistent factors outside of their control: ie Money and Postal Votes. These by-elections should be renamed BUY-elections.
So what can be done?
Pakatan Rakyat and especially PKR has lots to learn and change. Learn from past failures and learn from DAP’s campaign style and strategies.
PKR and to an extent PAS is still campaigning the old ways – the BN style. Sweet talk the rakyat, dish out a few candies here and there, “whack” the opponent. This approach does not work for PR because we lose out to BN’s huge machinery and endless bank account.
Look at DAP – their campaign is based on MARKETING; they sell themselves and their achievements with a mascot and theme song too. They even have cuddly toys that supporters buy and the voters see themselves as being a part of the whole campaign. It has been proven to work and being able to overcome even BN’s machinery and money.
We can argue that DAP’s win is because of the Chinese voters who cannot be easily bought. This is true too so BN may just spend more and do more in Chinese areas before the next General Elections.
So what is the next step for Pakatan Rakyat?
PR must seriously look into the issues that they are campaigning on. PKR’s approach of defending Anwar Ibrahim at all costs against Najib can no longer work. The REFORMASI struggle is no longer relevant if it remains focused on DSAI only.
Word on the ground in Sarawak is that they want to know what Pakatan Rakyat can do for them in real terms. They want to know how they can continue to earn a living and that their rice bowls will be protected.
The general man on the street in not bothered with talk of Justice for Teoh Beng Hock , of Kugan or Amirulrashid. In Sarawak for example, if a few people from Semenanjung is banned from entering Sarawak, so what – they are not bothered. If Taib is corrupt, so what – as long as I still can earn a living even though I dun have pipe water or electricity. I can still manage with a generator that the good BN government gave my village.
Clean and fair elections and a corruption free government: that is your problem. It does not matter to me – even when PR becomes government you cannot be clean. All politicians are the same. So I better stick with the ones I know from before.
So even here in Semenanjung, basic bread and butter issue matters to the makcik and pakcik in the kampong and they are the majority. Lopsided contracts, human rights are terms that are alien to them.
In as much as we are all concerned about these matters and it is these issues that form the basic fundamentals to our struggle, it does not work in an election campaign in the interiors and in the villages.
Even DAP’s wonderfully managed marketing campaign will not work in the interiors and in the villages.
Therefore PR must relook and rebrand themselves in order to have a fighting chance come the next GE. Perhaps, learning from DAP; PKR and PAS must start a Marketing Style campaign for the villages and the general middle and lower middle class Malay community.
It is undeniable that PR has got the Chinese and middle-class Malays and Indians in the pocket but PR must keep them in the pocket. PR has lots more to do to get into the hearts of the middle and lower-middle class Malays and Indian voters.
PR must be seen to be able to put food on their tables and a roof over their heads. PR must be seen to be able to give them a sense of security instead of being seen as people that always go protesting this and that; issues that they do not really understand.
For the urbanites, PR must ensure that in the States that they are governing now, pothole are patched, traffic lights are working, drains are flowing and developments controlled and sustainable. These issues if resolved assures that votes remain in PR pockets.
So the difficulty is in the bread and butter issues. BN has done a great job in telling the people that PR cannot do anything because they have never done anything. BN is right too because PR has never been in government to be able to do anything nor does PR have the money to do anything. So PR’s marketing must focus on educating the rakyat on PR’s current limitations and creating that dream of what PR can do and will do once in government.
Creating that dream (Yes We can) is what won Obama the presidentship. PR must likewise create that dream and certainly move away from REFORMASI and the DSAI shadow. Perhaps PKR should swallow humble pie and clinch on DAP’s ” UBAH” battle cry for the coming GE13 – and that dream of Putrajaya can indeed become a reality.
Berkhidmat Untuk Rakyat.
Friday, April 8, 2011
My Frustrations....
I have commiteed my time, energy and resources to help bring positive changes to Malaysia. I have chosen to work through the Pakatan Rakyat because it is the only available avenue for the moment to fight against Barisan National.
BN has continued in their own manner despite the sounding they recieved in March 2008. Even though their "advisor and consultant" has been giving good advice to the PM, however the grassroots are not singing the same tune. The blatant disrespect of the voice of the people and corrupt practices continues.
Therefore, I have chosen to work through Pakatan Rakyat and i am indeed honoured to be able to serve the community through the office of the Member of Parliament for SUBANG, YB Sivarasa. I habour no political ambitions except to bring changes to the enitre system of governance and see good practices in operation.
I am therefore saddened to note that in many ways and far too often, our currently elected PR representatives seem to have too much ego in their heads. far too often I have noticed how our PR elected representatives are behaving exactly in the same way the BN counterparts were doing.
Although they started off in 2008 as being very people friendly and results orientated but as the months go by, they fall into the trap of their egos and pride. Arriving late to planned meetings, wanting to be "greeted" with grandiose are surely but slowly slipping in.
They want to take credit for almost everything and even when others are helping out, these elected representatives are not keen because they themselves are not present. It does not matter if the problems are not solved, it should not be handled because they still cannot find time to be present. The YB wants to be there first so they can claim credit; its their own ego that comes first - not the rakyat.
Therefore from my first hand experience, I know full well, Rakyat didahulukan is a load of rubbish not just with BN but also with many within PR too.
Some of the PR State government leaders (EXCO) continues to fall into the "trap" of listening to the existing civil servants who are indeed very good at "boot polishing". It was these same officers who were there with the BN government before this and thus the root of the administrative problems before. Now we are still listening to the same people.
Lest we not forget, it was this "poor management" of the government operations that got BN the boot. The average man on the street does not bother too much about the politics, but want to see proper administration - smooth flow of documentations, fair decisions for all, less pot holes, lamp posts that works, traffice lights that works, drains that flow ...... but when the operative fail to function with all kinds of excuses and our "leaders" listen more to them and buy their excuses instead of the residents, we are back to square one.
I admit that with our more open and people friendly approach, every resident is able to call us directly to complain and some of these complainants are a real nuisance but this is part and parcel of our job.
However, we should be good managers and get things done and be results orientated and in many cases be authoritative instead of being the nice guy, playing the "politician" even with these civil servants - who may proof to be our own downfall.
It is indeed a frustrating job......
BN has continued in their own manner despite the sounding they recieved in March 2008. Even though their "advisor and consultant" has been giving good advice to the PM, however the grassroots are not singing the same tune. The blatant disrespect of the voice of the people and corrupt practices continues.
Therefore, I have chosen to work through Pakatan Rakyat and i am indeed honoured to be able to serve the community through the office of the Member of Parliament for SUBANG, YB Sivarasa. I habour no political ambitions except to bring changes to the enitre system of governance and see good practices in operation.
I am therefore saddened to note that in many ways and far too often, our currently elected PR representatives seem to have too much ego in their heads. far too often I have noticed how our PR elected representatives are behaving exactly in the same way the BN counterparts were doing.
Although they started off in 2008 as being very people friendly and results orientated but as the months go by, they fall into the trap of their egos and pride. Arriving late to planned meetings, wanting to be "greeted" with grandiose are surely but slowly slipping in.
They want to take credit for almost everything and even when others are helping out, these elected representatives are not keen because they themselves are not present. It does not matter if the problems are not solved, it should not be handled because they still cannot find time to be present. The YB wants to be there first so they can claim credit; its their own ego that comes first - not the rakyat.
Therefore from my first hand experience, I know full well, Rakyat didahulukan is a load of rubbish not just with BN but also with many within PR too.
Some of the PR State government leaders (EXCO) continues to fall into the "trap" of listening to the existing civil servants who are indeed very good at "boot polishing". It was these same officers who were there with the BN government before this and thus the root of the administrative problems before. Now we are still listening to the same people.
Lest we not forget, it was this "poor management" of the government operations that got BN the boot. The average man on the street does not bother too much about the politics, but want to see proper administration - smooth flow of documentations, fair decisions for all, less pot holes, lamp posts that works, traffice lights that works, drains that flow ...... but when the operative fail to function with all kinds of excuses and our "leaders" listen more to them and buy their excuses instead of the residents, we are back to square one.
I admit that with our more open and people friendly approach, every resident is able to call us directly to complain and some of these complainants are a real nuisance but this is part and parcel of our job.
However, we should be good managers and get things done and be results orientated and in many cases be authoritative instead of being the nice guy, playing the "politician" even with these civil servants - who may proof to be our own downfall.
It is indeed a frustrating job......
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Pertahankan Selangor demi Menyelamatkan Malaysia
2011 – 365 days; 8760 hours - what lies ahead?
2011 is not only the beginning of a new year but also the beginning of a new decade. I do not know what lies ahead but what I know for sure, it would be a challenging year for Malaysia.
It begins with Selangor (the heart of the nation) being on the brink of a Constitutional Crisis. The appointment of the State Secretary would be the talk of the nation. The fed is bending the law, and trying to put in their own chosen candidate without consultation with the Mentri Besar.
Worst still, the palace bureaucrats seem to be in league with the Feds. Announcements and invitations to the swearing-in ceremony have already been sent out. The Selangor Constitution is specific in that the SS must be sworn-in in the presence of the Mentri Besar (effectively, his immediate boss) The same constitution is silent on the role of the Sultan in the swearing-in.
So, will the MB disobey the palace and refuse to attend the ceremony – and refuses to acknowledge the appointment of the SS?
I strongly believe that the MB should call for an Emergency State Assembly sitting, where the people’s voice through their elected representatives should be heard. A vote should be taken as to whether the nominated SS is acceptable or not; if not, ask the Fed to propose another name or select from one of those proposed by the MB.
This I believe is in the spirit of the Pakatan Rakyat manifesto of respecting the Voice of the Rakyat.
The Feds would probably not respect the vote of the State Assembly; let them do so at the risk of facing the wrath of the people.
The next step, would be going to the courts to resolve this constitutional problem. Let the courts decide on how the SS should be appointed. Again, we all know the Courts are controlled by the Feds with little or no respect to the Rule of Law. Let it be, because this is yet another nail into the coffin of the BN Government.
All this would remain fresh in the memories of the voters come the next elections as long as the rakyat are continuously reminded of this.
In the meantime, without an SS, the State would be in a limbo. The EXCO would need to work extra time to get the administrative arm to continue working. However, it cannot afford to use the non existence of the SS as an excuse for things not moving.
This would be an excellent test for the Pakatan Rakyat State Government on crisis management. Perhaps, Kelantan to be a good direction to look to for guidance and previous experience.
This would be a tremendously challenging task to start off the year on. Of course January 2011 will end with the Temang by-elections; the result would set the mood for the rest of the year.
2011 is not only the beginning of a new year but also the beginning of a new decade. I do not know what lies ahead but what I know for sure, it would be a challenging year for Malaysia.
It begins with Selangor (the heart of the nation) being on the brink of a Constitutional Crisis. The appointment of the State Secretary would be the talk of the nation. The fed is bending the law, and trying to put in their own chosen candidate without consultation with the Mentri Besar.
Worst still, the palace bureaucrats seem to be in league with the Feds. Announcements and invitations to the swearing-in ceremony have already been sent out. The Selangor Constitution is specific in that the SS must be sworn-in in the presence of the Mentri Besar (effectively, his immediate boss) The same constitution is silent on the role of the Sultan in the swearing-in.
So, will the MB disobey the palace and refuse to attend the ceremony – and refuses to acknowledge the appointment of the SS?
I strongly believe that the MB should call for an Emergency State Assembly sitting, where the people’s voice through their elected representatives should be heard. A vote should be taken as to whether the nominated SS is acceptable or not; if not, ask the Fed to propose another name or select from one of those proposed by the MB.
This I believe is in the spirit of the Pakatan Rakyat manifesto of respecting the Voice of the Rakyat.
The Feds would probably not respect the vote of the State Assembly; let them do so at the risk of facing the wrath of the people.
The next step, would be going to the courts to resolve this constitutional problem. Let the courts decide on how the SS should be appointed. Again, we all know the Courts are controlled by the Feds with little or no respect to the Rule of Law. Let it be, because this is yet another nail into the coffin of the BN Government.
All this would remain fresh in the memories of the voters come the next elections as long as the rakyat are continuously reminded of this.
In the meantime, without an SS, the State would be in a limbo. The EXCO would need to work extra time to get the administrative arm to continue working. However, it cannot afford to use the non existence of the SS as an excuse for things not moving.
This would be an excellent test for the Pakatan Rakyat State Government on crisis management. Perhaps, Kelantan to be a good direction to look to for guidance and previous experience.
This would be a tremendously challenging task to start off the year on. Of course January 2011 will end with the Temang by-elections; the result would set the mood for the rest of the year.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Hidup Suara Rakyat
As Shawal comes to an end, I sit here at the Café reflecting on the past two months beginning with Ramadhan.
No, Im not muslim: Im a Christian of Chinese cultural heritage, a Malaysian citizen and a proud Anak Bangsa Malaysia.
As our Muslim brothers exercised their Islamic duty to fast, I joined them at numerous breaking fast events, joining together the celebration. In the 30days, I had visited 6 mosques and around 15 suraus and at every location my presence was most appreciated; including breaking fast with His Highness, the Sultan of Selangor. I took the effort to dress in traditional Malay baju at each occasion and that was also very much appreciated.
Thus, I was most disappointed when the MP Serdang was chastised for entering and speaking at a Surau. Adding salt to the wound was the fact that she was also called for her statement to be taken by the police, supposedly to assist with investigations. Due to no fault of her own making, she had also to make an apology to the Sultan.
During this period also, there was the issue of the school principal tearing apart our fabric of unity. Race has always been a sensitive issue in our community and played up for political interests. Many have been disturbed by it but I still see unity and strength in our diverse culture.
Instead of continually harping and commenting on race issues and the problems within the political parties, we as Anak Bangsa Malaysia should be looking at highlighting our society’s strength and progress .
Let the papers and politicians shout and scream at each other over race and politics and whatever else, but let us continue to Unite as One Voice.
In the spirit of Shawal, to forgive and forget – we must as concerned citizens, encourage our politicians from both sides, and remind them of their duty to serve. It is also our duty as citizens to play our role of being the watch-dog to monitor the elected representatives.
Each political party would have their internal fights and struggle but ultimately, at the ballot box, it is our vote that matters most. So, let us use that vote wisely, let us be responsible in exercising our duty on polling day.
Meanwhile, like a parent, when their kids quarrel, the parent takes no sides. Good or bad, right or wrong, the children are still their own flesh and blood. Likewise, when both the government and opposition side quarrel, we take no sides. Both are a part and parcel of our democratic system; and both must respect us, the voters, the rakyat – “the parent”
However, as citizens we look and evaluate the strength of each party – we hear the arguments of each side, we see the action of each side. Like the parent, we silently ad quietly decide in secret, who to leave our property in the will (our vote)
We should not lower ourselves and start joining in the fray and arguing with the politicians in public. However, it is our duty to engage each side and discuss and perhaps clarify issues and understand their thinking. Engaging with the party does not mean we support their stand.
When citizens start being positive and encouraging when engaging with the politicians and civil servants, we can definitely see positive changes. Similarly, as a parent, we encourage our children; when they fall, we are there to pick them up, and guide them.
Thus the change that the citizens demanded in March 08 will only bear fruit when citizens also become agents for change; and not let politicians bring about the changes. We must not be complacent and sit back – we must keep them on their toes.
The current direct elections being introduced by PKR is yet another example where we should see the goodness in it, rather than the negative parts. Yes, there are teething problems, there are in-house quarrels, so be it. Let PKR solve it – if they do and come out stronger, we vote for them come next elections, if not; we punish them by putting our X somewhere else.
We want to see us being able to put enough food on our tables, to have a solid roof over our heads with our hard earned ringgit. We want to be able to put aside a little something every month for the rainy day ahead. How can PR or BN assure us of that?
My X will go to the one who can tell me, assure me and convince me.
Honestly, am I really concerned if the Deputy Party President is “nyanyuk” or a Trojan horse or an ultra or whatever other terms is being used. I am not convinced just by seeing you wear the 1-Malaysia logo everyday but I see how you behave, the things you actually do – not just the sweet words you whisper?
My X goes to the one who does and speaks the same thing, not to the one who speak one thing and does another.
Bread and butter issues are of utmost importance. However, to ensure security for my son, true sustainable UNITY is important too. I feel and I know, there is real UNITY on the ground. However, for their political advantage and/or survival, some politicians keep telling us that there is no UNITY and that we must give them our X to ensure there is UNITY.
These same politicians are in fact tearing apart our fabric of unity.
All we need to do is look around us and see the multi racial celebrations during the open house this past Syawal.
In the many programmes that I have attended, little children seeing me in my Baju Melayu would take my hands and bring it to their forehead as a sign of respect. On other previous occasions when I am not wearing my Baju Melayu, they would shake my hands and no more. This is not their fault but simply the way they were brought up.
I am not offended when they just shake my hands but I am proud and delighted when they bring my hand to their forehead. I see it as progress and there will come a day soon, when our children will see others as Malaysians and not as Malay or Indian or Chinese.
Hidup Suara Rakyat – Hidup Anak Bangsa Malaysia
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Towards Unity
Sunday 4th July, my birthday weekend. It’s a gloomy day outside. As I sit now relaxing and reflecting on my day, my mood is as gloomy as the weather outside.
I feel gloomy despite that fact that by 2pm this afternoon, I had already attended two church services, one cultural event and two weddings. I should be happy as all these events are indeed happy occasions. However, I am sad because of these very same programmes.
The cultural programme was an Indian Youth Cultural Carnival. It was organized by an Indian Youth NGO and rightfully so, it showcased Indian culture such as traditional dances, kolam drawings etc. What’s sad about this event is that the audience and people who attended this event was almost 100% Indians.
Our society has been brought up to segregate ourselves based on race and religion. Right from our beginning, at the birth of our nation, the political parties were already race based; UMNO, MCA, MIC. Our founding fathers each stood for and “protected” the rights of the own race. It was from this beginning that our society than evolved.
After over 50 years, even our NGOs are race based; each protecting its own race. Even economically, we are race based with each race having their own Chamber of Commerce.
Back to the wedding reception that I attended; again it was very much a race based occasion. Both receptions were Malay weddings and thus the family obviously were Malays. It was the same with the relatives but friends, colleagues, neighbours? At the first reception, 100% Malays except for myself and my MP and my two colleagues were non Malays. The second wedding had a non Malay couple that I spotted.
I commented on this matter and my MP agreed that it is indeed a big problem that we have in our society today. This is a result of over 50 years of going in the wrong direction. Can we change this – what does it take to tear down this barrier?
My MP agrees that this is a difficult task and reckons that we may not be able to undo this race based mentality that easily. That remark brought and instant gloom to my mind; because I agree it is not an easy task.
Where do we go from here – what lies ahead?
I see a silver lining behind those dark clouds – where is that silver lining for ANAK BANGSA MALAYSIA?
I feel gloomy despite that fact that by 2pm this afternoon, I had already attended two church services, one cultural event and two weddings. I should be happy as all these events are indeed happy occasions. However, I am sad because of these very same programmes.
The cultural programme was an Indian Youth Cultural Carnival. It was organized by an Indian Youth NGO and rightfully so, it showcased Indian culture such as traditional dances, kolam drawings etc. What’s sad about this event is that the audience and people who attended this event was almost 100% Indians.
Our society has been brought up to segregate ourselves based on race and religion. Right from our beginning, at the birth of our nation, the political parties were already race based; UMNO, MCA, MIC. Our founding fathers each stood for and “protected” the rights of the own race. It was from this beginning that our society than evolved.
After over 50 years, even our NGOs are race based; each protecting its own race. Even economically, we are race based with each race having their own Chamber of Commerce.
Back to the wedding reception that I attended; again it was very much a race based occasion. Both receptions were Malay weddings and thus the family obviously were Malays. It was the same with the relatives but friends, colleagues, neighbours? At the first reception, 100% Malays except for myself and my MP and my two colleagues were non Malays. The second wedding had a non Malay couple that I spotted.
I commented on this matter and my MP agreed that it is indeed a big problem that we have in our society today. This is a result of over 50 years of going in the wrong direction. Can we change this – what does it take to tear down this barrier?
My MP agrees that this is a difficult task and reckons that we may not be able to undo this race based mentality that easily. That remark brought and instant gloom to my mind; because I agree it is not an easy task.
Where do we go from here – what lies ahead?
I see a silver lining behind those dark clouds – where is that silver lining for ANAK BANGSA MALAYSIA?
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
The 3rd Vote and Radical Reform
Both Penang and Selangor have written to the EC for Local Government Elections. The EC appears to have discussed this in length and will make an announcement soon.
“We have completed our in-depth discussions into the matter. Wait for our decision that we will announce tomorrow,” EC deputy chairman Datuk Wira Wan Ahmad Wan Omar told The Malaysian Insider last night.
Whilst an elected local government is what Pakatan has promised in their manifesto; on hindsight and having seen first hand how the Local Government function, it believe that an elected local governemnt may not be the solution that rate-payers want.
Even as it is now, with a fully PR friendly elected council, things are not moving as fast and as efficiently as it should. So imagine if there is an elected council, there will definitely be a larger mix of ideologies in the council. The councillors will be spending more time politicking instead of getting things done.
At the Local Council level, all the rate-payer wants is transparency and accounctability, that rate payer's money is not wasted. More importantly, rate-payers want to see street lights that work, drains that flow and roads that are free of pot-holes, enough parking spaces, recreational spaces and free flow of traffic in commercial areas and most of all, a safe community.
Politics with all its good intent, cannot provide this because it is the nature of politicians to object to their opponents views and suggestions even if it is a good suggestion.
Therefore, i am of the opinion that the 3rd vote may not be the solution. I fully agree with the views of PAS:
“We are considering many possibilities, perhaps 60 per cent are elected and 40 per cent get nominated. If that is the case, then the groups that are under-represented after the election can get representation,” he added.
read more:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/malaysia/57170-third-vote-must-represent-all-races-say-pas
The state governemnt reserves the right to appoint members to the council to maintain executive control and ensure a fair balance of representation.
Of the present 24 councillors, I propose 8 to be elected, 8 appointed from amongst political parties with the balance made up of NGOs and professional bodies. I further propose that all 8 elected councillors be made FULL TIME councillors, being paid a salary equivalent to their scope of responsibilities (as compared to the public sector)
“We have completed our in-depth discussions into the matter. Wait for our decision that we will announce tomorrow,” EC deputy chairman Datuk Wira Wan Ahmad Wan Omar told The Malaysian Insider last night.
Whilst an elected local government is what Pakatan has promised in their manifesto; on hindsight and having seen first hand how the Local Government function, it believe that an elected local governemnt may not be the solution that rate-payers want.
Even as it is now, with a fully PR friendly elected council, things are not moving as fast and as efficiently as it should. So imagine if there is an elected council, there will definitely be a larger mix of ideologies in the council. The councillors will be spending more time politicking instead of getting things done.
At the Local Council level, all the rate-payer wants is transparency and accounctability, that rate payer's money is not wasted. More importantly, rate-payers want to see street lights that work, drains that flow and roads that are free of pot-holes, enough parking spaces, recreational spaces and free flow of traffic in commercial areas and most of all, a safe community.
Politics with all its good intent, cannot provide this because it is the nature of politicians to object to their opponents views and suggestions even if it is a good suggestion.
Therefore, i am of the opinion that the 3rd vote may not be the solution. I fully agree with the views of PAS:
“We are considering many possibilities, perhaps 60 per cent are elected and 40 per cent get nominated. If that is the case, then the groups that are under-represented after the election can get representation,” he added.
read more:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/malaysia/57170-third-vote-must-represent-all-races-say-pas
The state governemnt reserves the right to appoint members to the council to maintain executive control and ensure a fair balance of representation.
Of the present 24 councillors, I propose 8 to be elected, 8 appointed from amongst political parties with the balance made up of NGOs and professional bodies. I further propose that all 8 elected councillors be made FULL TIME councillors, being paid a salary equivalent to their scope of responsibilities (as compared to the public sector)
Saturday, November 21, 2009
the week that was
This past week has been an interesting week for my hobby. My interest in observing social behavioral patterns has gone on overdrive.
First there was the Tanjung Road or rather in my books, the SONY Ramp closure. The closure came about because of anger and I do not at all blame the party concerned. I would have done exactly that.
The anger was triggered by the selfish act of one party and using influence and money, made use of others. Worst still, people are so easily influenced and do not behave objectively, and this included professionals!
Now it looks like two groups of residents are being made to challenge each other. SAD!
Have we forgotten what ALL RESIDENTS stood united and fought for in March 08 – Good Governance, Competency, Accountability and Transparency. I truly hope and pray that the solution for this issue will come from these fundamentals. It is all about Responsibilities and the Rule of Law: that MUST always be upheld!
To tie this to politics, to warn, to bully to pressure the elected representative is senseless. The same representative who stood on the platform of activism, on issues such as environment, who was the hero when the forests got gazette in now the villain. From hero to villain, in the eyes of the very same people because of an opinion that is not on their side: is this the change we asked for in GE11?
We voted for change and the changes may take time. In the meantime, are we prepared to change ourselves? Or are we still the same old JOE; my Wakil Rakyat is only good if he or she agrees with my view, if oppose than he or she is bad.
No! We must be willing to accept differing views and try to convince others of our views when we differ. Having tried, if we fail, we respect and accept that other person’s views. Instead of being negative, lets learn to encourage more, to learn and search for the positive instead of highlighting the bad.
Moving on from the ramp closure, the week continued with the MBSA Head of COB Dept refusing to accept a JMB that was formed. Again, I get a chance to see human weaknesses coming in to cloud their judgment.
Owners’ rights were thrown out the window because the Head of Dept was egoistic. As a result, he made decisions on baseless facts. The JMB was rejected because “the minutes were submitted by the residents instead of the developer”. Does it make a difference? So when challenged to put it in writing, of course he could not.
Meanwhile, owners are sent running here and there…..
Now when pushed, the Head of Department than puts in writing that there was no list of eligible owners and he could not confirm if the elected committee members are indeed owners. Therefore, another meeting has to be convened, this time by an appointed owner instead of the errant developer. So when the appointed owner informs that there is still no list of eligible owners, the Head of Department says he can get it.
If he can indeed get it, can he not just get it and confirm the elected committee members are eligible: why the need to waste time, money and effort for another AGM? Meanwhile, the owners are deprived of their rights and the errant developer continues to rule and bully!
Another example of human behavioral pattern: where our judgment gets clouded by our weaknesses.
The persistent bully gets away and the honest, quiet and silent Joe suffers.
Malaysia, we must change and we must be willing to stand up against the bully. We must be willing to voice out for the silent. We must be willing to reward the honest and bring to task the bully. We must let common sense rule and not be ruled by greed, selfishness and ego.
I end with a quote from an elected representative; one with guts and principles: “I had to sacrifice privacy, freedom, writing, reading – priceless. Sometimes I think of my easy wonderful life before all this crap.”
First there was the Tanjung Road or rather in my books, the SONY Ramp closure. The closure came about because of anger and I do not at all blame the party concerned. I would have done exactly that.
The anger was triggered by the selfish act of one party and using influence and money, made use of others. Worst still, people are so easily influenced and do not behave objectively, and this included professionals!
Now it looks like two groups of residents are being made to challenge each other. SAD!
Have we forgotten what ALL RESIDENTS stood united and fought for in March 08 – Good Governance, Competency, Accountability and Transparency. I truly hope and pray that the solution for this issue will come from these fundamentals. It is all about Responsibilities and the Rule of Law: that MUST always be upheld!
To tie this to politics, to warn, to bully to pressure the elected representative is senseless. The same representative who stood on the platform of activism, on issues such as environment, who was the hero when the forests got gazette in now the villain. From hero to villain, in the eyes of the very same people because of an opinion that is not on their side: is this the change we asked for in GE11?
We voted for change and the changes may take time. In the meantime, are we prepared to change ourselves? Or are we still the same old JOE; my Wakil Rakyat is only good if he or she agrees with my view, if oppose than he or she is bad.
No! We must be willing to accept differing views and try to convince others of our views when we differ. Having tried, if we fail, we respect and accept that other person’s views. Instead of being negative, lets learn to encourage more, to learn and search for the positive instead of highlighting the bad.
Moving on from the ramp closure, the week continued with the MBSA Head of COB Dept refusing to accept a JMB that was formed. Again, I get a chance to see human weaknesses coming in to cloud their judgment.
Owners’ rights were thrown out the window because the Head of Dept was egoistic. As a result, he made decisions on baseless facts. The JMB was rejected because “the minutes were submitted by the residents instead of the developer”. Does it make a difference? So when challenged to put it in writing, of course he could not.
Meanwhile, owners are sent running here and there…..
Now when pushed, the Head of Department than puts in writing that there was no list of eligible owners and he could not confirm if the elected committee members are indeed owners. Therefore, another meeting has to be convened, this time by an appointed owner instead of the errant developer. So when the appointed owner informs that there is still no list of eligible owners, the Head of Department says he can get it.
If he can indeed get it, can he not just get it and confirm the elected committee members are eligible: why the need to waste time, money and effort for another AGM? Meanwhile, the owners are deprived of their rights and the errant developer continues to rule and bully!
Another example of human behavioral pattern: where our judgment gets clouded by our weaknesses.
The persistent bully gets away and the honest, quiet and silent Joe suffers.
Malaysia, we must change and we must be willing to stand up against the bully. We must be willing to voice out for the silent. We must be willing to reward the honest and bring to task the bully. We must let common sense rule and not be ruled by greed, selfishness and ego.
I end with a quote from an elected representative; one with guts and principles: “I had to sacrifice privacy, freedom, writing, reading – priceless. Sometimes I think of my easy wonderful life before all this crap.”
Saturday, October 31, 2009
An Interview with Peter Chong
Watch this interview on:
www.dawningeyes.blogspot.com/?zx=c878fe20fc05e2f6
www.dawningeyes.blogspot.com/?zx=c878fe20fc05e2f6
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
The Arrest of the Lawyers @ Balai Polis Birckfields
“certain quarters who are out to create trouble” - that is the quote from the IGP in his media interview on arrival at the KLIA. ( Errr, this IGP seems more like a politician; giving press interviews even on arrival from an overseas trip. Is he not a civil servant too and are they not subjected to certain do's and don't with regards to these kind of publicity??)
Anyway, the IGP was quoted as calling the 5 Lawyers as people who were out to create trouble - what trouble may I ask? These 5 YOUNG LAWYERS were there to carry out their professional duties; upholding basic human rights and the rule of law. They were standing and waiting patiently by the gate of the station for at least half an hour waiting for permission to enter the premises.
They were denied entry into the police station with the excuse that the Investigating Officer and the OCPD were at a meeting. I would have thought that at the very least these lawyers should have been invited in to the station, given a place to sit while waiting for the officers to finish their meeting. Instead they were made to stand by the road outside the police station. For this action alone, I think the PDRM owes the lawyers an apology!
Infact I would urge the National Union of Journalists to also lodge a formal complaint and protest that a Jounalist, carrying out his duty was also arrested that night. He has there to do his professional duty but was arrested. This was despite the fact that he had on his MEDIA tag on.
I witness all these as I WAS THERE that night. Infact I was there right up to 3:15am!
This whole incident could have been avoided right from the beginning. The group of around 30 young people sat down peacefully and quietly with their lighted candles in support of a friend who was arrested much earlier.
If the police and the OCPD in particular, had been more professional, all these arrests could have been easily avoided. The young people could have been allowed to carry-on the vigil and if they were properly informed and advised to end their vigil, they would have done so.
Instead, the OCPD chose to come out in full force (and infact not even in uniform) and told them to disperse immediately giving the vigilist no chance at all to even move away. The OCPD himself manhandled a female vigilists (which I also believe is not right) before handing the female vigilist to a female uniformed officer.
So when the OCPD did not respect the PDRM's own standard operating procedures in carryig out his duties - all kinds of problems started surfacing ending with the arrest of the lawyers. Now, in order to safe face and protect their A##%$s they start fire-fighting. We now see all kinds of remarks and quotes which just makes the whole issue worst.
The PDRM should just carry out their internal investigation; and based on eye witnesses accounts, suspend the OCPD - make a public apology and move on. Instead by prolonging the issue, we now have even calls for the Minister and IGP to resign;
Being there that night and following through all the events the eventually unfolded, I support the call to suspend the OCPD and the resignation of the IGP. Their action and words are nothing short of a disgrace to the already tarnished image of the Police DiRaja Malaysia.
Anyway, the IGP was quoted as calling the 5 Lawyers as people who were out to create trouble - what trouble may I ask? These 5 YOUNG LAWYERS were there to carry out their professional duties; upholding basic human rights and the rule of law. They were standing and waiting patiently by the gate of the station for at least half an hour waiting for permission to enter the premises.
They were denied entry into the police station with the excuse that the Investigating Officer and the OCPD were at a meeting. I would have thought that at the very least these lawyers should have been invited in to the station, given a place to sit while waiting for the officers to finish their meeting. Instead they were made to stand by the road outside the police station. For this action alone, I think the PDRM owes the lawyers an apology!
Infact I would urge the National Union of Journalists to also lodge a formal complaint and protest that a Jounalist, carrying out his duty was also arrested that night. He has there to do his professional duty but was arrested. This was despite the fact that he had on his MEDIA tag on.
I witness all these as I WAS THERE that night. Infact I was there right up to 3:15am!
This whole incident could have been avoided right from the beginning. The group of around 30 young people sat down peacefully and quietly with their lighted candles in support of a friend who was arrested much earlier.
If the police and the OCPD in particular, had been more professional, all these arrests could have been easily avoided. The young people could have been allowed to carry-on the vigil and if they were properly informed and advised to end their vigil, they would have done so.
Instead, the OCPD chose to come out in full force (and infact not even in uniform) and told them to disperse immediately giving the vigilist no chance at all to even move away. The OCPD himself manhandled a female vigilists (which I also believe is not right) before handing the female vigilist to a female uniformed officer.
So when the OCPD did not respect the PDRM's own standard operating procedures in carryig out his duties - all kinds of problems started surfacing ending with the arrest of the lawyers. Now, in order to safe face and protect their A##%$s they start fire-fighting. We now see all kinds of remarks and quotes which just makes the whole issue worst.
The PDRM should just carry out their internal investigation; and based on eye witnesses accounts, suspend the OCPD - make a public apology and move on. Instead by prolonging the issue, we now have even calls for the Minister and IGP to resign;
Being there that night and following through all the events the eventually unfolded, I support the call to suspend the OCPD and the resignation of the IGP. Their action and words are nothing short of a disgrace to the already tarnished image of the Police DiRaja Malaysia.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
A Community Servant's Lamentation
I have committed myself to serving my community. I want to leave this country a better place, A Better Malaysia for my son and all those coming after me. I see things that are wrong and I want to correct them.
However, serving the community is a very expensive hobby. One needs strong financial support and most of all strong emotional support from those closest to you. Their understanding is most important to keep one moving forward.
In serving the community, there will be lots and lots of obstacles from all angles. There will be people who will discourage you and throwing a wet-blanket. There will be those out to frustrate your attempts and efforts to make things better.
There will be those whom we are helping that will show no appreciation but instead mock you. There will be those whom we are helping and who turns around and instead of being thankful, will treat you like a servant, as if we owe it to them to serve them.
All these are external challenges that we can easily overcome or just simply to ignore. Afterall, in committing to do volunteer community services, we do not seek to be appreciated nor to gain any personal favours. We just want to see a better community.
However, emotional support, love and care from our close ones are important elements that every volunteer needs. That encouragement from family and close ones are pillars of support. Therefore, for those who are not committed enough to go out there and serve, it is most important and necessary for you to give moral and emotional support plus encouragements to those who are out there.
Even if you cannot give the support, one should not send out negative vibes to these volunteers. Just being there would be good enough. However, sometimes in frustration we may make negative comments that can be demotivating.
I have personally come across many instances of negative comments.
“You are a failure, you have no right to talk to me!” .
“You are so stupid – helping others for what? What do you get?”
Coming from strangers is ok, but from love ones, it hurts right at the heart!
Nevertheless, I press on, putting full faith in GOD that he has plans for me. I did not give up a senior corporate position for nothing; I did it because I believe that I can make a difference. I choose to take the road less travelled because I believe that once I journey on this road, others will join me. Together we can make a difference though there may be struggles along the way.
Glory be to GOD from whom my strength comes.
However, serving the community is a very expensive hobby. One needs strong financial support and most of all strong emotional support from those closest to you. Their understanding is most important to keep one moving forward.
In serving the community, there will be lots and lots of obstacles from all angles. There will be people who will discourage you and throwing a wet-blanket. There will be those out to frustrate your attempts and efforts to make things better.
There will be those whom we are helping that will show no appreciation but instead mock you. There will be those whom we are helping and who turns around and instead of being thankful, will treat you like a servant, as if we owe it to them to serve them.
All these are external challenges that we can easily overcome or just simply to ignore. Afterall, in committing to do volunteer community services, we do not seek to be appreciated nor to gain any personal favours. We just want to see a better community.
However, emotional support, love and care from our close ones are important elements that every volunteer needs. That encouragement from family and close ones are pillars of support. Therefore, for those who are not committed enough to go out there and serve, it is most important and necessary for you to give moral and emotional support plus encouragements to those who are out there.
Even if you cannot give the support, one should not send out negative vibes to these volunteers. Just being there would be good enough. However, sometimes in frustration we may make negative comments that can be demotivating.
I have personally come across many instances of negative comments.
“You are a failure, you have no right to talk to me!” .
“You are so stupid – helping others for what? What do you get?”
Coming from strangers is ok, but from love ones, it hurts right at the heart!
Nevertheless, I press on, putting full faith in GOD that he has plans for me. I did not give up a senior corporate position for nothing; I did it because I believe that I can make a difference. I choose to take the road less travelled because I believe that once I journey on this road, others will join me. Together we can make a difference though there may be struggles along the way.
Glory be to GOD from whom my strength comes.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Woman...Ladies...where is your voice!!!
This report from STAR following the appointment of the New Cabinet is such a sexist report. It made me puke! - The sad part is that nobody has actually raised an issue about it..so here I am with my two cents worth................!
Women's appointment .. so few of them is an issue to pick up...not their dressing or lack of it ...please get our perspective right!
Women...STAND UP for GENDER EQUALITY....!!!!
Senator Heng caught off-guard
KUALA LUMPUR: Senator Heng Seai Kie had planned to look her best at the swearing-in of Wanita MCA chief Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun as a senator yesterday but she ended up “less dressed” than she intended.
This is because the Perak Wanita MCA chief, who is usually immaculately dressed, was too stunned to make herself up after hearing of her appointment as the new Deputy Information, Culture, Arts and Communications Minister.
A senator since November 2006, Heng, the Wanita MCA secretary-general, never expected to be included in Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s new Cabinet line-up when she received a call yesterday.
“It was quite unexpected for me,” said Heng, who showed up at the Senate wearing a simple long-sleeved blouse and pants.
The senator was looking plain without make-up although she managed to complete her hairdo at a salon.
Women's appointment .. so few of them is an issue to pick up...not their dressing or lack of it ...please get our perspective right!
Women...STAND UP for GENDER EQUALITY....!!!!
Senator Heng caught off-guard
KUALA LUMPUR: Senator Heng Seai Kie had planned to look her best at the swearing-in of Wanita MCA chief Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun as a senator yesterday but she ended up “less dressed” than she intended.
This is because the Perak Wanita MCA chief, who is usually immaculately dressed, was too stunned to make herself up after hearing of her appointment as the new Deputy Information, Culture, Arts and Communications Minister.
A senator since November 2006, Heng, the Wanita MCA secretary-general, never expected to be included in Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak’s new Cabinet line-up when she received a call yesterday.
“It was quite unexpected for me,” said Heng, who showed up at the Senate wearing a simple long-sleeved blouse and pants.
The senator was looking plain without make-up although she managed to complete her hairdo at a salon.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Welcome Back.......err you never did leave
The Press Statement from Eli, printed in full below is in fact the best news for a Better Malaysia...! But reading her statement which must surely have been a tough task for her too, i felt for her; the pain, the anger and for me the pride of knowing her, Anak Bangsa Malaysia!
her statement...
These past two months have been more than an ordeal, one which I would never have wished for any citizen to have to suffer through.
I have been stripped bare publicly – both figuratively and literally – by force and against my will. My personal life has been violated and assaulted by none other than criminals. Even up to this evening, I continue to receive threats from unknown persons.
This is not a scandal, as some have suggested, but a clear criminal act. This is no less a form of criminal intimidation, a form of political violence, and one which, if I chose to retreat into silence, would in turn indirectly affect women, especially women politicians.
Gutter politics is not and should not be part of our political culture, and for those who depend on exploiting and supporting such a crime, is an indication of the kind of politicians and persons they are.
I stand for a person’s right to privacy. I stand for ‘New Politics’ – a politics that encourages intellectual discourse, reasoned polemics and ideological debates, not one which resorts to gutter-level politicking which seek to smear, to slander and to violate one’s privacy to score political points.
This is the hardest decision that I have to make in my life and it is with the greatest humility that I accept the Selangor state’s offer to remain in office.
I wish to thank menteri besar and the Selangor exco, my staff, my fellow Aduns, fellow politicians from Pakatan Rakyat and Barisan Nasional, PKR leaders, the women’s wing of PKR and the grassroots, and my legal team for their support and guidance.
Respectfully, I wish to thank HRH the Sultan of Selangor for his guidance.
I am humbled by the encouragement and support shown by the media, my family and friends, the NGOs, the tens of thousands of people who signed the petitions on my behalf and who wrote to me, and especially my constituents who stood by me in these trying times.
I also wish to thank the police for their professionalism in addressing the issue at hand and I look forward to them apprehending and charging the criminals soonest.
My only wish is to serve my constituents and the state to the best of my abilities and with the help and cooperation of the people, to make this state, this country a better place for all. The struggle continues, and our work has just begun.
Elizabeth WongAdun Bukit LanjanExco for Tourism, Consumer Affairs and the Environment
her statement...
These past two months have been more than an ordeal, one which I would never have wished for any citizen to have to suffer through.
I have been stripped bare publicly – both figuratively and literally – by force and against my will. My personal life has been violated and assaulted by none other than criminals. Even up to this evening, I continue to receive threats from unknown persons.
This is not a scandal, as some have suggested, but a clear criminal act. This is no less a form of criminal intimidation, a form of political violence, and one which, if I chose to retreat into silence, would in turn indirectly affect women, especially women politicians.
Gutter politics is not and should not be part of our political culture, and for those who depend on exploiting and supporting such a crime, is an indication of the kind of politicians and persons they are.
I stand for a person’s right to privacy. I stand for ‘New Politics’ – a politics that encourages intellectual discourse, reasoned polemics and ideological debates, not one which resorts to gutter-level politicking which seek to smear, to slander and to violate one’s privacy to score political points.
This is the hardest decision that I have to make in my life and it is with the greatest humility that I accept the Selangor state’s offer to remain in office.
I wish to thank menteri besar and the Selangor exco, my staff, my fellow Aduns, fellow politicians from Pakatan Rakyat and Barisan Nasional, PKR leaders, the women’s wing of PKR and the grassroots, and my legal team for their support and guidance.
Respectfully, I wish to thank HRH the Sultan of Selangor for his guidance.
I am humbled by the encouragement and support shown by the media, my family and friends, the NGOs, the tens of thousands of people who signed the petitions on my behalf and who wrote to me, and especially my constituents who stood by me in these trying times.
I also wish to thank the police for their professionalism in addressing the issue at hand and I look forward to them apprehending and charging the criminals soonest.
My only wish is to serve my constituents and the state to the best of my abilities and with the help and cooperation of the people, to make this state, this country a better place for all. The struggle continues, and our work has just begun.
Elizabeth WongAdun Bukit LanjanExco for Tourism, Consumer Affairs and the Environment
Sunday, April 5, 2009
A week of Hell and back......
Sinnce last Sunday afteroon, I had been indisposed.
It started off with bodyaches and headaches followed by high fever that just refused to go away. I was completely knocked-off, lying in bed for two solid days.....with no appetite either.
Finally on Wednesday enough strength to get my ass to the clinic..........where the good doctor immediately gave me a jab, took my blood and put me on drip, right there at the clinic. I was terribly dehydrated by than. (YEAH - 3 needles in all!)
My blood test resut expected that very night or latest in the morning, so after 2 bottles of drip, i was packed off home. That night was yet another sleepness night making it 4 nights in a row!
Early next morning, the clinic called and asked me to go over. Confirmed - it is DENGUE!. Surprising my platelet count was not too bad....128 from the norm of 150. Still, the doctor insisted that I should be warded.
I decided against hospitalisation as I was informed they would just be putting me on drip and taking my blood daily for monitoring. I opted to stay home. Drowned myself in glucose 100+. In addition I started on Salted Soya Bean Milk, PhosChol (Phosphatidylcholine) and Vitamin C. I was also fed the Cambridge Diet. YUKS!
I was also given chinese traditional body detox treatment.
I also had "spring chicken" (Frog) boiled with little bitter gourd and honeyed dates as nutrition soup. This was excellent : wonderful taste!
Meanwhile, my fever had gone off and I started having diarrhea. It turned out to be the salted soya bean; it was meant to do that - to cleanse and detox my system. I still could not take solid food as I kept feeling nauseous. With no solid food, I had no energy and kept feeling tired and sleepy. But I could feel myself getting better.
Finally, Friday and I started on a litte solid food....and that night I was able to sleep better too. Saturday too on a bit more solid food and finally this morning, went out for breakfast though I could only finish half a bowl of bitter gourd soup noodle.
And yes, I could also sit up and write this blog and clear my mail box which has since been full.
It has been one long week....
It started off with bodyaches and headaches followed by high fever that just refused to go away. I was completely knocked-off, lying in bed for two solid days.....with no appetite either.
Finally on Wednesday enough strength to get my ass to the clinic..........where the good doctor immediately gave me a jab, took my blood and put me on drip, right there at the clinic. I was terribly dehydrated by than. (YEAH - 3 needles in all!)
My blood test resut expected that very night or latest in the morning, so after 2 bottles of drip, i was packed off home. That night was yet another sleepness night making it 4 nights in a row!
Early next morning, the clinic called and asked me to go over. Confirmed - it is DENGUE!. Surprising my platelet count was not too bad....128 from the norm of 150. Still, the doctor insisted that I should be warded.
I decided against hospitalisation as I was informed they would just be putting me on drip and taking my blood daily for monitoring. I opted to stay home. Drowned myself in glucose 100+. In addition I started on Salted Soya Bean Milk, PhosChol (Phosphatidylcholine) and Vitamin C. I was also fed the Cambridge Diet. YUKS!
I was also given chinese traditional body detox treatment.
I also had "spring chicken" (Frog) boiled with little bitter gourd and honeyed dates as nutrition soup. This was excellent : wonderful taste!
Meanwhile, my fever had gone off and I started having diarrhea. It turned out to be the salted soya bean; it was meant to do that - to cleanse and detox my system. I still could not take solid food as I kept feeling nauseous. With no solid food, I had no energy and kept feeling tired and sleepy. But I could feel myself getting better.
Finally, Friday and I started on a litte solid food....and that night I was able to sleep better too. Saturday too on a bit more solid food and finally this morning, went out for breakfast though I could only finish half a bowl of bitter gourd soup noodle.
And yes, I could also sit up and write this blog and clear my mail box which has since been full.
It has been one long week....
Friday, March 20, 2009
of Taxis and Call a Cab Services..
Today I did not have a car - out of service.
I planned to use the services of a cab. I needed to get to PJ Sec14 by 2pm so I started to call for a cab from 12:30.
I called two companies, but no cab available and I kept trying both companies for over an hour. Each time I called, I would be put on hold for at least 2 minutes than to be told that there is no cab in the area.
I got really mad so I told the cab company I will add on RM20 to the fare.......immediately, they told me there is a cab available! That made me even more angry....of course I cancelled it! And they keep calling back saying they have cab available now.
Gosh, is this how our cab services work? The worst is that we always see taxis parked at the bus stops waiting for customers and when approached they will not use their meter and ask for an exhorbitant fare!
And no one can or is doing anything about it......!
I planned to use the services of a cab. I needed to get to PJ Sec14 by 2pm so I started to call for a cab from 12:30.
I called two companies, but no cab available and I kept trying both companies for over an hour. Each time I called, I would be put on hold for at least 2 minutes than to be told that there is no cab in the area.
I got really mad so I told the cab company I will add on RM20 to the fare.......immediately, they told me there is a cab available! That made me even more angry....of course I cancelled it! And they keep calling back saying they have cab available now.
Gosh, is this how our cab services work? The worst is that we always see taxis parked at the bus stops waiting for customers and when approached they will not use their meter and ask for an exhorbitant fare!
And no one can or is doing anything about it......!
Friday, March 13, 2009
The best is yet to come...
One year on……
March 8th 2009, what would have been a significant date for Malaysians in general, passed as quietly as it had come. To many Anak Bangsa Malaysia, it was just another day.
The anniversary of the 8th March 2008 Political Tsunami was not celebrated as much as I would like to have seen. Than again, there was not much to celebrate.
During this year, we witnessed the death of democracy and the voice of the rakyat in Perak. This is particularly sad as I am a proud Perakian. However, I still believe that Democracy can and will be “resurrected” .
Many of my fellow Malaysians have over the many months lamented that “things are not happening even with the Pakatan Rakyat government – what’s happening?”
I questioned the same in the early months after March8th 2008. Than I realized that it is not enough just to complaint – get into it and help get things moving! Initially, I was determined that PR does not keep using the excuse of “we just got in – give us some time” Thus I got myself in and volunteered myself to help in Selangor.
I can honestly state that the PR government is doing their best to get things moving and bring in changes. This is despite the frustrations and sabotages that they have to face even from amongst the civil servants. Nevertheless, one thing is for sure happening – that things are being done in the best interest of the Rakyat in general, with transparency.
Change management is not an easy task to handle. We have a mindset that has developed for over at least one generation – it takes time.
Some of the PR leaders themselves are products of the past 50 year’s thinking and methodology of doing things. All of us,also grew up in this same culture – thus we cannot just expect changes politically. We as concerned citizens and Anak Bangsa Malaysia must also make that commitment within ourselves to change.
From the governance point, PR has appointed a mix of people, both party and from amongst the professionals into the local councils. This is perhaps the first step towards re-introducing Local Government Elections.
Many of us, may not even know of this or understand what it means. The councilors, at this lowest level of governance are doing the best under difficult circumstances. In some local councils we see better results than in others but we keep moving forward.
The politicians at the state and executive levels – some still have the “mind-set” as mentioned above. Instead of allowing the councilors to do their job, they try to “influence” and exert their authority. Can we blame them: they were approached and pressured by the rakyat (their voters) and they must be seen to do something? So it goes back to my earlier argument that we ourselves must change our mindset.
We must put in the effort t o do things in the proper way. That “kau tim” mentality must no longer be practiced. We can and must use our influences in a positive way. More importantly, we must educate others within our circle of influence to do likewise.
Changes must come from the people and not just from the politicians. The rakyat must have the political will to change, we must walk the talk.
First we put our crosses in the ballot paper for change; now let us walk that talk and begin the walk for change.
This is just the beginning, better things are in store; let that change begin with ourselves!
March 8th 2009, what would have been a significant date for Malaysians in general, passed as quietly as it had come. To many Anak Bangsa Malaysia, it was just another day.
The anniversary of the 8th March 2008 Political Tsunami was not celebrated as much as I would like to have seen. Than again, there was not much to celebrate.
During this year, we witnessed the death of democracy and the voice of the rakyat in Perak. This is particularly sad as I am a proud Perakian. However, I still believe that Democracy can and will be “resurrected” .
Many of my fellow Malaysians have over the many months lamented that “things are not happening even with the Pakatan Rakyat government – what’s happening?”
I questioned the same in the early months after March8th 2008. Than I realized that it is not enough just to complaint – get into it and help get things moving! Initially, I was determined that PR does not keep using the excuse of “we just got in – give us some time” Thus I got myself in and volunteered myself to help in Selangor.
I can honestly state that the PR government is doing their best to get things moving and bring in changes. This is despite the frustrations and sabotages that they have to face even from amongst the civil servants. Nevertheless, one thing is for sure happening – that things are being done in the best interest of the Rakyat in general, with transparency.
Change management is not an easy task to handle. We have a mindset that has developed for over at least one generation – it takes time.
Some of the PR leaders themselves are products of the past 50 year’s thinking and methodology of doing things. All of us,also grew up in this same culture – thus we cannot just expect changes politically. We as concerned citizens and Anak Bangsa Malaysia must also make that commitment within ourselves to change.
From the governance point, PR has appointed a mix of people, both party and from amongst the professionals into the local councils. This is perhaps the first step towards re-introducing Local Government Elections.
Many of us, may not even know of this or understand what it means. The councilors, at this lowest level of governance are doing the best under difficult circumstances. In some local councils we see better results than in others but we keep moving forward.
The politicians at the state and executive levels – some still have the “mind-set” as mentioned above. Instead of allowing the councilors to do their job, they try to “influence” and exert their authority. Can we blame them: they were approached and pressured by the rakyat (their voters) and they must be seen to do something? So it goes back to my earlier argument that we ourselves must change our mindset.
We must put in the effort t o do things in the proper way. That “kau tim” mentality must no longer be practiced. We can and must use our influences in a positive way. More importantly, we must educate others within our circle of influence to do likewise.
Changes must come from the people and not just from the politicians. The rakyat must have the political will to change, we must walk the talk.
First we put our crosses in the ballot paper for change; now let us walk that talk and begin the walk for change.
This is just the beginning, better things are in store; let that change begin with ourselves!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Thinking Malaysians
A blog is supposed to be for one to write his thoughts. However, from time to time, I do the "copy and paste" thing when I read something that reflects what I am thinking. It is an easy way out but for me it is because I have high respect for the fellow blogger and more so the way he has put his thought (our thoughts) in words.
So today, I am copying what RPK has written about education (I confess this is done without his approval). Well, you post it in the blog than it belongs to everyone else now, especially if it is for a fellow blogger and Anak Bangsa Malaysia.
Anyway, thank you Yg Mulia :-)
""On the second news item about the English language, Lam Thye was only half-right. He only spoke about the weak implementation of teaching English for science and maths. Actually, we have a weak education system, full stop.When we stifled the education system by banning students from thinking that was when our education system started going downhill. The Japanese learn in Japanese, the Thais in Thai, the Indonesians in Indonesian, and so on. If you want to go to France to study you need to first learn French. Has using languages other than English ever been a problem for non-English speaking countries?However, in these countries I quoted, they allow students to think. In Malaysia, we do not allow the same. We even have laws that make it a crime for students to get involved in politics.Students must be allowed to think. They must be allowed to dissent if they wish to. Only through activism will students develop. Telling students what they can and cannot think does not help them develop. This is where the problem lies.They can speak Swahili for all I care. But as long as they are allowed to think and can think for themselves then they can develop into the type of people we would like them to. But to treat students as if they were children would mean they would grow up to become children.Innovation can’t be stifled. By stifling the freedom to develop means we are stifling growth itself. And that is why Malaysian students can’t develop. It is not about the language. It is about what we have not allowed them to become.""
So today, I am copying what RPK has written about education (I confess this is done without his approval). Well, you post it in the blog than it belongs to everyone else now, especially if it is for a fellow blogger and Anak Bangsa Malaysia.
Anyway, thank you Yg Mulia :-)
""On the second news item about the English language, Lam Thye was only half-right. He only spoke about the weak implementation of teaching English for science and maths. Actually, we have a weak education system, full stop.When we stifled the education system by banning students from thinking that was when our education system started going downhill. The Japanese learn in Japanese, the Thais in Thai, the Indonesians in Indonesian, and so on. If you want to go to France to study you need to first learn French. Has using languages other than English ever been a problem for non-English speaking countries?However, in these countries I quoted, they allow students to think. In Malaysia, we do not allow the same. We even have laws that make it a crime for students to get involved in politics.Students must be allowed to think. They must be allowed to dissent if they wish to. Only through activism will students develop. Telling students what they can and cannot think does not help them develop. This is where the problem lies.They can speak Swahili for all I care. But as long as they are allowed to think and can think for themselves then they can develop into the type of people we would like them to. But to treat students as if they were children would mean they would grow up to become children.Innovation can’t be stifled. By stifling the freedom to develop means we are stifling growth itself. And that is why Malaysian students can’t develop. It is not about the language. It is about what we have not allowed them to become.""
Saturday, February 28, 2009
ALLAH - now you can , now you cannot
Yesterday the papers announced that the Catholic publication can use the word ALLAH albeit with some very "stupid" conditions. I believed that even with the announcement by the Minister, the Catholic Church did not view it as any form of victory.
Than today, the same Minister withdraws that permission..............hmmmmm???
Just yesterday we had the news of the increase of toll with the Minister making all sorts of justifications for the increase. Than within 24 hours, that decision changes again, after "intervention" by the PM.
Gosh, are we Anak Bangsa Malaysia being treated like idiots or what? What kind of governance is this when serious decisions like the above two examples can be turned around with hours....is there no form of responsibility before making such announcements - so buat aje la, orang tak suka, kita tukar balik la....kita kan gomen!
God help us!
Than today, the same Minister withdraws that permission..............hmmmmm???
Just yesterday we had the news of the increase of toll with the Minister making all sorts of justifications for the increase. Than within 24 hours, that decision changes again, after "intervention" by the PM.
Gosh, are we Anak Bangsa Malaysia being treated like idiots or what? What kind of governance is this when serious decisions like the above two examples can be turned around with hours....is there no form of responsibility before making such announcements - so buat aje la, orang tak suka, kita tukar balik la....kita kan gomen!
God help us!
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