Blackinkorea

Another new house

2010-07-27T23:43:00.000+08:00

www.aminiskandar.com have problems. I don't know till when it will recover.
So a new blog has been created. Go to www.aminiskandar.blogspot.com for latest news. Sorry for the difficulties.

Move to new house

2009-06-29T14:26:00.002+08:00

Blackinkorea is my first blog. I've started it when i was doing my internship at The May 18 Memorial Foundation, Gwangju, South Korea.

After done with the internship, i came back to Malaysia and started Blog Amin Iskandar. This blog is in Malay and very political.

After a while, i'm thinking that i need to write not only politics. I should write more topics such as arts, culture and travel since that is what i've always do. As a result, i've created www.aminiskandar.com.

To all my readers, go to www.aminiskandar.com. That is my new home. If you want to ask me any questions, feel free to email me at amin@aminiskandar.com.

Thanks,

Black

Just let Chin Peng come home

2009-06-15T11:44:00.003+08:00

What is the problem to let Chin Peng come back to Malaysia?

Is the government (BN) forget the treaty that they have signed in Haadyai with CPM on 2nd Disember 1989?

After all Chin Peng is just an old man who want to spend his life in the country that he was born.

The kids like Hishamuddin Husein, Khairy Jamaluddin and Mukhriz Mahathir are too stupid to understand the Haadyai Treaty that been signed by Malaysian Government and Communist Party of Malaya in 1989.

To all fellow Malaysian, don't be stupid as Hishamuddin Hussein, Khairy Jamaluddin and Mukhriz Mahathir.

If they are not the son or son in law of former prime ministers, i don't know what they will be today!

Happy Birthday Che Guevara!

2009-06-14T08:11:00.003+08:00

Today, 14th June is the born date for the legendary Ernesto Che Guevara.

TSB alerted me on this.

Here's birthday present for Che:

Forum on Palestine

2009-01-05T22:16:00.002+08:00

You are invited to attend this special public forum:-

NOT JUST ANOTHER WAR

MYTH AND REALITY IN OCCUPIED PALESTINE

The death of hundreds of people in Gaza brought into limelight once again the happenings in the Occupied Territories. But the final solution to the conflict evades analysts and political observers particularly those working within the Western media whose portrayal of the issue has always been on this assumption: that it is a result of competing national aspirations of the Jews and Muslims for their own state. In order to understand any issue, a knowledge of its origin and background is vital. The Palestinian conflict has been given the utmost coverage, only to cover the truths and give recognition to the myths surrounding its very nature.

So what is the nature of the conflict? Who are the interested parties in the Palestinian question? What are the pitfalls of the countless solutions coming out from Arab and Western capitals? Why have the continued killings of Palestinians generated so much passion among the Arab masses but only statements of regret from their governments? How does it differ from other contemporary wars between nations?

This forum aims not only to dispel the myths and false premises which have together created a flood of analyses on the so-called ‘Israel-Palestine’ conflict, but also aims to give an overview, historical and current perspective, on the issue.

DATE

(FRIDAY) 9 JANUARY 2009

TIME

8:00PM-10:00PM

VENUE

BAR COUNCIL AUDITORIUM, BAR COUNCIL BUILDING, JALAN LEBUH PASAR, KUALA LUMPUR

Speakers:

Dr Rosli Omar

Hishamuddin Rais

Dr Farish A Noor

Professor Gurdial Singh Nijar

Jointly Organised By

The Malaysian Bar

The Malaysian Social Research Institute (MSRI)

Cakap-Rakyat Group

Who are the speakers?

Dr Rosli Omar - was trained for his Phd at Imperial College London and is now an Associate Professor at the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of Malaya’s engineering faculty. His areas of research are mainly on Artifical intelligence, global warming and environment etc. Even though not formally trained politically he has always been interested in humanitarian issues, especially those concerning imperialism and oppression. Due to his deep understanding and extensive reading, he had regularly contributed in various discussions and debates among fellow academicians and youth circles on issues such as globalization, global warming and the middleast conflict.

Hishamuddin Rais - He is still best known for his stewardship of the student movement in the tumultuous 1973-4 demonstrations on subjects like American imperialism and Israeli expansionism, plus the more local concerns of Kedah peasants and Johore squatters – “Baling incident”. Throughout his 20 years in self-imposed exile, he remained the Malaysian rebel with a series of adventures in Iraq, Palestine, India, Australia, Moscow, Belgium and finally England. Since his release from 2-year ISA detention during the reformasi era, Hisham is now busy writing, teaching and directing plays, films etc.

Dr. Farish Ahmad-Noor is a Senior Fellow at the Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Nanyang Technical University (NTU), Singapore where he is Director of Research for the Research Cluster on Transnational Religion in Southeast Asia. He is also guest affiliated Professor at both Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) and Sunan Kalijaga Islamic University, Jogjakarta. He is the author of ‘Writings on the War on Terror’ (2006), ‘From Majapahit to Putrajaya’ (2005) and ‘Islam Embedded: The Historical Development of PAS’ (2004).

Professor Gurdial Singh Nijar – (to be confirmed) obtained tertiary qualification in law in King College, London and the University of Malaya. He is Barrister-at-Law, Middle Temple and a registered Advocate and Solicitor in Victoria New South Wales, Australia. He specializes in professional proactive and his current research interest includes many aspects of biodiversity law. He is professor at the Law faculty and the director of the Centre for Biodiversity Law. He has represented Malaysia and the legal profession at numerous international forums and meetings. He has published several books covering civil trial advocacy, indigenous peoples knowledge systems and drafting for lawyers.

Together with the Malaysian Bar, the 2 other co-organisers are:-

The Malaysian Social Research Institute (MSRI), a non profit organisation was inaugurated on 27 November 1959. The purpose of the institute was to produce and publish world-class academic scholarship.

Currently, MSRI continues in its efforts of humanitarian support for the downtrodden, especially for the Palestinian refugees in Lebanon. With the help of caring Malaysians, MSRI’s programmes will continue to make a difference in the lives of some of the most unfortunate people in the world.

Among its key objectives is to promote an understanding and appreciation of Muslim and other communities in various parts of the world in pursuance of humanitarian rights and to conscientise the public and mobilize support for people struggling for self-determination and/or suffer from war or other forms of dispossession. Website: www.msri.org.my

CAKAP RAKYAT GROUP - is created on 1 December 2008 by a group of young Malaysians whose main objectives are to organize live discussions, debates and public forums in order to deepen understanding of various issues affecting societies, both at global and local level. Their main target audience are the youths of Malaysia - to promote and strengthen the intellectual capacity of young activists in dealing with various human rights and social issues.

Farewell My Friend...

2008-12-18T21:12:00.002+08:00

Our friend, Syukree Hussien who are famous with his unpredicted actions passed away to meet his creator yesterday. He was buried last night at 10 pm according to his brother. Click here to read about my posting regarding him.

Farewell my friend.

CPO's CHILDREN RESCUE MISSION

2008-12-17T09:29:00.001+08:00

15^th. December 2008, Bangi Estate, Selangor

CPO of Selangor, Khalid Abdul Bakar went on a rescue mission to save the children from the "bad" JERIT. In his noble mission, he used massive police force in Rawang and Kajang to arrest all participants of the JERIT cycle for change campaign. He says that he wants to unite the "terrified" children back to their parents.

In Rawang, 56 people were arrested including 27 below the age of 18. The arrest did not result in 27 parents knocking in the police doorsteps but instead, more than 500 people demonstrated in the rain calling for everyone to be released. The CPO was shouted at for his action which created more anger rather than relief.

In Bangi estate, where I was , there was a 5 hour stand-off with the police. The police armed with around two dozen plain cloths policemen, 2 police trucks and many uniformed policemen waited at the entrance of the estate, waiting to arrest all those who cycled and they wanted to determine their age. In fact, the policemen, a huge group of them followed the team. When I finally asked the ground commanding officer ASP Helmy, he admitted that they wanted to arrest those below the age of 18 under the child act. They wanted to put them in trucks and bring them to the police station. Later the deputy OCPD made a more stupid confession. He said that the police will arrest first and then only investigate. This cowboy style of policing means the police are acting unlawfully.

We objected and said that we will surrender them ourselves. The police also were very reluctant to go into the private premise to make the arrest. Besides that, a huge group of people were waiting to defend the participants. The police were worried and agreed to our proposal that we surrender them ourselves. We later asked for lunch to be served first as well as that we will get them to the station by bus. Later Edmond Bon and his legal team came. More negotiation was done and the police was now very secretive but had a tough time to arrest and there was a stand-off and the people were growing in numbers. Police initially decline to confirm that they will be making arrests.

Finally the police backed off and the people were allowed to move out of this estate. We used the bus though the police wanted us to cycle. They had their plan but we had ours. By now , we have learned about the arrest in Rawang and was sure that this is a directive from the top. We moved next to West Country Dewan. Once again a huge police presence. Once again it made a lot of people come out and observe what is happening. The police truly give us the publicity we need.

That night, we followed closely the development in Rawang. Meanwhile Cikgu Lee hosted us for dinner. It was a good dinner and the participants really enjoyed themselves. The arrest did not take place in Kajang but the arrest in Rawang made us rethink our route because we just have another 3 days to go.

The CPO mission fails – 16 December 2008

Today the CPO mission fell flat. The parents who came from the North side nearly broke the Rawang police gate. The were really upset with the police for arresting their children. The police, the welfare officers all got a blasting from the angered family members. When the kid and their parents came out, they were very much intact. The received huge applause. The children and their parents agreed that they will cycle on. They also wanted to sue the CPO. This was a huge blow for the CPO.

In Kajang, the team which spend most of the time in Putrajaya site seeing ended the day by a huge numbers mobilized to the station while parents of those below 18 lodged a police report against the police and also furnished them with consent letter from the parents.

It was a slap in both cheeks for the CPO. Both the north and south team have survived this ordeal and are now determined to complete their mission

Coming soon: Bilik Sulit

2008-12-15T09:17:00.004+08:00

Forum Rakyat "No to ISA"

2008-11-27T14:36:00.002+08:00

Arus Pergolakan Politik di Malaysia, diantara harapan dan cabaran. Satu penilaian semula.

Tarikh: 1 Disember 2008

Hari: Isnin

Masa: 8 Malam

Tempat: Auditorium Bar Council,
Leboh Pasar Besar,
Kuala Lumpur.

Ahli Panel:

1) Sdr. Hishamuddin Rais (Aktivis Reformasi, Kolumnis)
2) Tn Hj. Mohammad Sabu (Naib Presiden PAS)
3) Sdri. Teresa Kok (Ahli Parlimen Seputeh)
4) Raja Petra Kamarudin (Editor Malaysia Today)
5) T S Thenintharan (Indian Opressed Group)
6) Syed Ibrahim (Gerakan Mansuhkan ISA)
7) Faridzun Nasaruddin (Jurucakap Mahasiswa Mansuhkan ISA dan AUKU)

Anjuran: Cakap Rakyat Group.

Obama chalks up historic win

2008-11-05T15:49:00.001+08:00

Democrat candidate Barack Obama has been elected as the United States first black president following his historic win over his Republican rival John McCain.

MCPX

The 47-year-old father of two, who will be inaugurated as the 44th US president on Jan 20, 2009, has inherited an economy mired in the worst financial crisis since the 1930s, two wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and a nuclear showdown with Iran.

Television networks projected his victory over McCain after Obama solidified traditional Democratic states and cut deep into the Republican territory which his rival needed to control to win the White House.

Obama's historic inauguration will complete a stunning ascent to the pinnacle of US and global politics from national obscurity just four years ago and close an eight-year era of turbulence under President George W Bush.

At 12.20pm local time, McCain conceded defeat and congratulated Obama on his victory.

Obama has earlier captured key states Ohio and Pennsylvania to
leave McCain a near-impossible route to the presidency.

On a dramatic night after millions of people cast votes in an election that could reshape US politics, Obama appeared a virtual lock to make history by capturing the White House and giving Democrats a monopoly on power in Washington.

No one since John F Kennedy in 1960 has lost two of the critical triumvirate of Ohio, Pennsylvania and Florida and gone on to win the presidency.

Florida was too close to call but Obama was outperforming Democratic nominee John Kerry's figures in the state in 2004.

Obama also captured New Mexico, another Republican seat McCain needed to hold to keep his slim White House dreams alive.

Almost certain victories for Obama in Washington state, Oregon and delegate rich California.

Obama also won Massachusetts, Connecticut, Illinois, New Jersey, Maine, New Hampshire, Washington DC, Delaware, Michigan, Wisconsin, Rhode Island, and Minnesota, according to network projections.

McCain captured Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, South Carolina and Oklahoma, Alabama, Arkansas, Wyoming, Louisiana, Kansas and Texas.

Other normally Republican states, North Carolina, and Virginia were too close-to-call, as was midwestern Indiana, in another positive sign for Obama.

As expected, McCain snapped up Kentucky and West Virginia and Obama won Vermont, according to early network projections.

Democrats control Senate

Democrats took a third seat from Republicans in the Senate on Tuesday, putting them on track to win a majority with 52 seats in the 100-member legislative body, major US news networks said.

Virginia's Mark Warner filled a seat being vacated by veteran Republican Senator John Warner, who is of no relation to the winner, according to CNN and Fox, while Democrat Jeanne Shaheen unseated Republican John Sununu in New Hampshire, said NBC and CBS.

But Republican senate majority leader Mitch McConnell clung on, meaning that Democrats cannot now win the 60 seats they need in the 100-seat chamber needed to frustrate Republican obstruction tactics.

Among the Republican casualties was Elizabeth Dole in North Carolina, wife of former Senate majority leader and defeated 1996 presidential nominee Bob Dole.

CNN reported that exit polls showed that the economy was the top priority, being named by 62 per cent of voters, compared to Iraq with 10 per cent, terrorism on nine per cent and healtcare on nine per cent.

Obama made a short election day trip to the midwestern swing state of Indiana, after casting his vote alongside wife Michelle with daughters Sasha and Malia close by.

"I feel great and it was fun, I had a chance to vote with my daughters," he said.

"I noticed that Michelle took a long time though. I had to check to see who she was voting for," the Hawaiian-born US senator from Illinois said with a laugh.

McCain kept silent as he voted in his home state of Arizona, but later led a boisterous rally in Grand Junction, Colorado, promising supporters: "We're going to win it."

McCain, a former Vietnam war prisoner would be at 72 the oldest presidentinaugurated for a first term if elected.

Obama, the son of a black Kenyan father and white mother from Kansas, would become the first African-American president after a stunning rise to the pinnacle of US politics.

- AFP

OPINION: Left sails through the turbulent times

2008-10-28T09:05:00.001+08:00

By : SANTHA OORJITHAM

N. Patkunam (in dark suit) inviting Tunku Abdul Rahman to tea with George Town's left-controlled city council in the early 1960s. — Picture courtesy of Patkunam

MALAYSIA'S Socialist Front scattered in the mid 1960s. But former members tell SANTHA OORJITHAM that socialism is still alive today — although it may be practised under different names by different parties.

Pas member Ishak Surin says Parti Sosialis Malaysia and he are on 'parallel paths'

PSMarti Sosialis Malaysia would have to 'review' idea of joining Pakatan Rakyat, says Dr Mohd Nasir Hashim

Dr Syed Husin Ali says Pas would not accuse him of being a communist today

ISHAK Surin, Dr Mohd Nasir Hasim and Dr Syed Husin Ali all began their political careers with Parti Rakyat Malaya (PRM).

Each was arrested under the Internal Security Act for his socialist beliefs, which their jailors equated with communism and/or Marxism.

And today, each says he is pursuing the same goals with a different party. Ishak is now the deputy chairman of the Pas Workers and Squatters Bureau, Syed Husin is deputy president of Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) and Nasir is chairman of Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM).

The Socialist Front peaked in the early 1960s but had collapsed by the middle of the decade. And after the Berlin Wall came down in 1989, many wrote off socialism in Malaysia.
But with Parti Sosialis Malaysia winning one parliamentary seat and one state seat in the March 8 general election, with its registration in August and with several other parties claiming to champion similar "pro-people" policies, maybe reports of the death of socialism have been premature.

"Socialist goals are still alive today, advocated by different groups and parties -- although it is not as widespread as it was in the 1950s and 1960s," says political scientist Khong Kim Hoong, author of Merdeka!

After World War 2, groups such as the leftist Kesatuan Melayu Muda (KMM) that had collaborated with the Japanese collapsed. Leftist Malay activists formed new groups, including the Malay Nationalist Party (PKMM) and Angkatan Pemuda Insaf (Api).

"All the Malay parties under Pusat Tenaga Rakyat (Putera) and the non-Malay parties under the All-Malaya Council of Joint Action (AMCJA) united to oppose British colonialism," says Ishak.

In 1948, the British banned Api, followed by the Communist Party of Malaya, PKMM and others, jailing hundreds of their leaders, including Ahmad Boestamam, a former KMM member and the leader of Api.

When he was released in 1955, he started PRM, which the 19-year-old Ishak joined "because I saw it as the only way to achieve independence, not because I was a socialist".

But as the young teacher read, listened to lectures and attended meetings, "I found there was injustice. At that time, I thought socialism could form a nation and society which was just".

Ishak became assistant secretary-general and, after PRM and the Labour Party formed the Malayan People's Socialist Front (SF) in 1958, he helped in the campaign for the first general election in 1959.

The Front won eight seats at the national level, making it the third largest party in Parliament after the Alliance and Pas. Meanwhile, it was also consolidating power at the local level. In Penang, for example, it held 14 of the 15 George Town seats after the 1961 city council elections.

By 1965, Syed Husin notes, the socialists had gained control of the municipal councils in Penang and Malacca as well as the local councils in Seremban and Serdang.

Adds Khong: "Poverty, poor wages and healthcare, and less access to electricity and water were breeding grounds for socialism."

Trade unionist N. Patkunam, a founding member of the Labour Party of Malaya and member of its central executive committee, won the Sungai Pinang council seat in the 1958 and 1961 elections and was elected deputy mayor in 1960.

As a young teacher, he sold his parents' land in Green Lane and handed the proceeds to his party.

"We wanted a socialist society which would alleviate poverty and provide for fair distribution of wealth," he explains.

He helped Penangites to get low-cost housing, put in streetlights where there hadn't been any and helped people get jobs.

"I do not think people in Penang were afraid of socialism," he says.

But pressure was building up. Federal Government propaganda "demonised" socialism, claims Syed Husin, giving it "a terrible stigma associated with communism and being 'anti-religion'".

In 1964, the SF won only two seats. Ishak attributes this to Indonesia's declaration of Konfrontasi in 1963.

"The Front was seen as pro-Indonesia. All the SF leaders were arrested again."

And after he helped to organise a mass demonstration to protest the arrests, he was also detained under the ISA and later sentenced for having "subversive" documents.

But the final blow was the suspension of local government elections in 1965 (after the 1964 declaration of Emergency during Konfrontasi).

"Socialism never recovered," says Ishak. No more socialists made their way into Parliament until this year, although a couple won state seats over the years.

Unions have also been weakened since the Emergency, says Khong. Before independence, there was one General Labour Union, adds Nasir, "not separate unions for workers in the private and public sectors. It was very powerful. Most of the members were socialists".

At the same time, as Khong points out, working conditions have improved -- and so have the amenities.

By the 1980s, says a former PRM member helping with election campaigns then, "response from the voters and the public was very poor. They recognised that PRM members were committed but there was a real suspicion that socialism was not for this country. It was seen as anti-religion".

He was disillusioned by the breakup of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) in 1991 which he says, "really buried socialism. I left because I could see that capitalism worked, whether you liked it or not. There is ample room for democracy under capitalism".

Today, he is a planner with a government-linked company.

Ishak left even earlier, for a different reason: an ideological and leadership struggle within PRM in 1969.

Younger leader Kassim Ahmad, who had taken over as chairman in 1965, brought in "scientific socialism" and changed the name to Parti Sosialis Rakyat Malaysia.

Scientific socialism had the same goals as the earlier ideology of "Marhaenism" (named after a peasant whom Sukarnomet), aiming to remove the vestiges of colonialism and work towards a society based on nationalism and social justice. "The party did not want to be associated with Indonesia," explains Syed Husin.

Founder Boestamam and others (including Ishak) left to form Parti Marhaen Malaysia which tried to revive the Socialist Front for the 1974 elections but failed. Ishak joined Pas in 1985.

"Pas helps workers, educating them on their rights and educates squatters on their right to housing," he explains. "It has similar goals to socialism."

Parti Sosialis Malaysia was formed by another splinter group. When PSRM reverted back to PRM in 1989, Nasir left "after they dropped socialism from both the party's name and constitution".

Since then, his party has worked with "urban pioneers", plantation and factory workers, farmers, Orang Asal, students and migrant workers among others.

Among its successes, says the new Kota Damansara state assemblyman, were pushing for the Selangor state policy (which was adopted in the early 1990s) that when plantations are developed, the affected workers must be given alternative housing; and persuading the Federal Government to put smaller plantations under what is now the Rural and Regional Development Ministry so that it could take care of them (which was done in 1993).

Meanwhile, Syed Husin led PRM members into a merger with Parti Keadilan Nasional to form Parti Keadilan Rakyat in 2003 -- although some Keadilan members opposed the merger arguing that PRM and he were "socialist and anti-religion", he recalls.

And when PKR wanted its deputy president to contest the Kota Baru parliamentary seat in the 2004 general elections, Kelantan chief minister Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat objected to his socialist background, claiming that socialists are "adik kepada komunis".

PKR's objectives now are "more pro-people and non-racial", says the party's deputy president. "Wealth is to be shared by the poor and disadvantaged... You can call it socialism if you want. Some say it is Islam."

Although Pas may still associate socialists with communists, he says, "they have changed their attitude towards individuals and would not accuse me of the same today. And if PSM wanted to join Pakatan Rakyat, I don't think Pas would oppose that".

PSM and former socialists like himself "are still struggling for a non-communal society with fair distribution of wealth," he says.

"Our paths are parallel. If they stick to these principles, they will succeed. I can do the same within Pas."

But if reports of the death of socialism are premature, speculation about PSM joining Pakatan Rakyat may be premature as well.

"We have yet to receive an invitation," says Nasir. "If there is one, we will review it in our congress."

Both PSM candidates stood on a PKR ticket during the March polls and have cooperated with other PR parties for years.

But, the chairman stresses, "As socialists we prefer to overhaul this exploitative system rather than fine-tune it."

Every Sunday Candle Light For RPK and All ISA detainees

2008-10-18T00:38:00.005+08:00

It's been a while since the last posting for BlackinKorea. The reason is because i'm focused with my blog in Bahasa Malaysia.

Ok folks, from last Sunday, the supporters of RPK gathered at the "Padang" near Amcorp Mall at 8.00 p.m to show our support to RPK and urge the government to release RPK and all ISA detainees. Click here.

During the last event on 12th October, Zorro asked me and friends to sing and recite poems to make the event more happening.

Well, i accpeted the offer and plan to bring my guitar to support my brother RPK who is detained in Kamunting now.

If you have free time, come and join us every Sunday on 8.00 pm.

Happy to see the new faces joining the event!

FREE RPK!!! FREE ALL ISA DETAINEES!!! ABOLISH ISA!!!

RPK arrested under ISA

2008-09-12T13:46:00.005+08:00

Raja Petra Kamarudin (RPK) was arrested under ISA a few minutes ago.

According to his wife, Marina Lee Abdullah, 10 policemen came to pick RPK at their house at 1.10 pm today. Click here.

The Malaysian government is very desperate now. They will do anything to stop "16 September" from happen.

The arrest of RPK is just the beginning.....

UNITED AGAINSTS ISA!!! FREE RPK!!!

Happy Ramadhan....

2008-09-01T16:38:00.002+08:00

Ramadhan came again.... I would like to wish all Muslims around the world, Happy Ramadhan... May Ramadhan will give you more happiness....

Now Blackinkorea is not really active because i'm focus with another blog. Click here.

Light a Candle on Aug 7, at 9pm your local time zone & support Tibetan cause

2008-08-06T10:02:00.000+08:00

On the eve of the Beijing Olympics, August 7, please join me in solidarity with my people “Tibetan” and its genuine cause for Free Tibet, and light a candle or more on a windowsill or anywhere at 9pm in your own local time zone.

The world wide candle light campaign is neither against the Olympics nor the Chinese people, but it is a reminder of repression of basic human rights, freedom of speech, freedom to practice religion and freedom of self expression in Tibet by the Chinese government since 1959.

Visit this website and get more info on “Candle for Tibet” www.candle4tibet.org/en

Below statement was made by the Dalai Lama in one of his interviews with a poet/writer Dom Moraes some years ago and I thought it relevant to share it with you:

“There are two great forces in the world today; one is the forces of the people with power, with armies to enforce their power, and with a land to recruit their armies from. The other is the force of the poor and dispossessed. The two are in perpetual conflict, and it is certain who will lose…………..Unless this is changed, the world will perish. Therefore every poet, every religious man, every activist, every political leader, should fight against this division till he dies.”

In this period of darkness

Light a candle to give some hope

Once again the date is Aug-7th, 9pm your time.

Tenzing Paljor

Tibetan/Global Refugee

Kabul - Afghanistan

Below find some weblinks on Tibet issues:

International Campaign for Tibet

http://www.savetibet.org/campaigns/olympics/index.php

Students for a Free Tibet

http://www.studentsforafreetibet.org/article.php?list=type&type=15

PM Says MRR2 Pillar Cracks Could Be Averted If Repairs Were Done Responsibly

2008-08-04T13:01:00.001+08:00

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 4 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said Monday the recurrence of cracks on a pillar of the Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2) flyover in Kepong could have been averted if the previous repairs had been carried out responsibly.

The prime minister said the government had spent up to RM70 million -- "a huge sum of money" -- for the repairs and the cracks have reappeared in such a short time.

Those repairs were carried out in February 2006 when cracks appeared on 31 of the 33 pillars of the flyover. That stretch of the highway had also been closed in August 2004 for similar repairs.

Addressing the monthly gathering of the Prime Minister's Department here, Abdullah said the inconvenience faced by the people in terms of traffic congestion and delays in travelling time due to part closure of that stretch of the MRR2 would only make them angry and come to negative conclusions.

The flyover and the road beneath it were closed from 10.30 am to 5 pm on Sunday after three of the 18 carbon fibre panels on Pillar 28 peeled off early yesterday and clumps of concere fell onto the road.

Works Minister Datuk Mohd Zin Mohamed said on Sunday, two of the six lanes of the highway there would be closed for the next three weeks until a team of consultants had studied the damage.

He said the structure was safe.

Abdullah said that if everything had been done well in the first place, the people would not get upset because of the inconvenience caused and it would have been safe to use the road.

-- BERNAMA

PRESS STATEMENT - Anwar Ibrahim to contest in by-election as soon as possible

2008-08-01T15:38:00.001+08:00

After deliberating with my family, the Keadilan party leadership and our partners in the Pakatan Rakyat, I have officially submitted my resignation as Member of Parliament of Permatang Pauh to the Speaker of Parliament YB Tan Sri Datuk Pandikar Amin Bin Hj. Mulia today to make way for my husband, Anwar Ibrahim, to contest as a candidate for Pakatan Rakyat in a by-election as soon as possible.

This is consistent with our goals towards securing a Parliamentary majority and forming a new government within this year.

This decision is the right decision for Malaysia.

The nation now faces some of the greatest challenges it has encountered since gaining independence. The UMNO-led Barisan Nasional government has mismanaged the economy and steered the nation towards a catastrophe. It has allowed the integrity of the justice system to fall into deeper infamy. It has stroked the flames of racism and driven a wedge of mistrust between Malays, Chinese and Indians, while thoroughly neglecting the needs of the indigenous peoples of Sabah and Sarawak.

Anwar Ibrahim has articulated a vision for Malaysia that has brought hope to the people. He has the experience and intelligence to reinvigorate our economy, and the charisma and integrity to unite the Malaysian people and restore credibility to our institutions of governance.

I will continue to serve as president of Parti Keadilan Rakyat and as chairperson of the Yayasan Aman (Peace Foundation).

I whole-heartedly thank my supporters in Permatang Pauh who have stood by me in the most difficult of times since September 1998 and have shared in the joy of victory we all experienced on March 8th. The future of our nation lies in the dedication and commitment to justice and freedom that I have experienced as your representative in Parliament and I look forward to many more years of serving you with sincerity and with humility.

DATO' SERI DR. WAN AZIZAH WAN ISMAIL
President Parti Keadilan Rakyat

Pakatan Rakyat leaders l-r: YB Sivarasah Rasiah, YB Saifuddin Nasution, YB Azmin Ali, YB Nurul Izzah Anwar, Nurul Nuha Anwar, YB Dato' Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, YB Tan Kok Wai, Dr. Syed Husin Ali, YB Dr. Xavier Jayakumar.

Malaysia: Political Motivations Undermine Anwar Case

2008-07-24T09:34:00.001+08:00

(New York, July 21, 2008) – Malaysian government allegations that opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim forcibly sodomized a male aide lack credibility, Human Rights Watch said today. Human Rights Watch is concerned that Anwar's arrest was a politically motivated attempt to derail the opposition alliance Pakatan Rakyat's (People's Alliance) much-publicized campaign to form a new government by September 16, 2008.Human Rights Watch urged the Malaysian government to ensure any investigations are transparent, impartial, and in accordance with international standards of due process.

"The Malaysian government's record provides little basis to believe this is anything other than a partisan political attack on Anwar," said Brad Adams, Asia director at Human Rights Watch. "In light of past false allegations and his unfair trial, Anwar has good reason to worry that his rights won't be respected."

The police have to date refused to release the first information report lodged by former aide Saiful Bukhari Azlan on June 28. Anwar's lawyers have repeatedly requested the report, which under Malaysian law is a public document. A person named in a first information report has the right to a copy of the report. The refusal of the police to make the original report public has fueled suspicions that it may be altered. Saiful remains under police protection.

Human Rights Watch said that the arrest of Anwar on July 16, one hour before he was due at Kuala Lumpur Police Contingent Headquarters for questioning, was unnecessary and heavy-handed. Anwar has repeatedly pledged – the last time just before his arrest on July 16 – to fully cooperate with the investigation.

Some 20 police officers in 10 cars stopped Anwar, who was returning home by car, and took him in a police car for questioning. Many wore balaclavas to hide their identities. After more than five hours of questioning, police kept Anwar in a holding cell overnight with no bed. He had to sleep on a cement floor despite a well-known back problem.

"The police operation to arrest Anwar was designed to intimidate and punish," Adams said. "This inquiry has already raised serious concerns about police bias, transparency, and the government's willingness to flout the law for political ends."

Sodomy, even if consensual, is punishable by up to 20 years of imprisonment. It is unclear whether Anwar will be formally charged with sodomy. The standard practice in Malaysia is that once police conclude investigations, they forward the investigation papers to the Attorney General's Chambers to evaluate the evidence and decide whether to prosecute. Human Rights Watch said that recent comments by senior Cabinet ministers, including Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi and Home Minister Syed Hamid that Anwar should provide a DNA sample to the police constitute improper interference.

On July 18, Prime Minister Abdullah said "If he is not guilty, why worry about giving a new DNA sample. If he is indeed innocent, there is nothing for him to fear… If he has not done anything, than provide a sample. Do it. I want to see it. Let's see the result which could prove that he did not do it." Anwar had refused to voluntarily provide his DNA sample, due to concern that it could be manipulated against him.

"Comments by government ministers about Anwar's case are improper pressure on the police and prosecutor," said Adams. "Malaysia claims to be a well-ordered democracy wedded to the rule of law, but the Anwar investigation says just the opposite."

Background: Anwar Prosecution, Take Two Human Rights Watch said that the current case bears a strong resemblance to the previous politically motivated corruption and sodomy charges against Anwar in 1998, while he was serving as deputy prime minister and finance minister. Those charges came after Anwar challenged then Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad over accusations of corruption, cronyism and mismanagement of the Asian financial crisis, leading to Anwar's dismissal.

The High Courts in 1999 and 2000 sentenced Anwar to a total of 15 years of imprisonment for corruption and sodomy, despite his appearing in court with extensive facial bruises from a police custodial beating by the then national police chief – who was convicted in 2000 for assaulting Anwar – and the grave discrepancies that pervaded the entire police investigation, prosecution and trial processes. Anwar served six years before Malaysia's apex Federal Court overturned the sodomy conviction in September 2004.

Anwar testified on July 16 and 21, 2008 before the Anti-Corruption Agency that the present inspector general of police (then investigating officer in both the corruption and sodomy charges) and attorney general (then senior deputy public prosecutor for the sodomy case) fabricated evidence in relation to the serious assault he suffered while under police custody.

Anwar was barred from running for a parliamentary seat at the time of Malaysia's general elections on March 8, 2008, but the coalition he is credited with forging, Pakatan Rakyat, succeeded in drastically reducing the power of the long-dominant Barisan Nasional (National Front) government coalition by winning 81 parliamentary seats and seizing control of five state governments, including Selangor and Penang. Until March, Barisan Nasional had enjoyed a two-thirds, veto-proof majority in the 222-seat house and the control of all state governments except one.

"People Power" won the first round

2008-07-18T08:23:00.000+08:00

Last wednesday when the police took Anwar using "gestapo" style, the "people",not only PKR's supporters went straight away to IPKKL, Jalan Hang Tuah.

I arrived there with a couples of friend around 1.30 pm. At that time, thera was only around 50 people gathered at near Pudu Jail opposite the enterance of IPKKL.

We was told that Pakatan MP's and some supporters gathered infornt of IPKKL main gate. The rest could not join them because of the police set a small "road block" to stop the people to enter to the main gate.

I saw a lot of Reformasi "old timers" was around. It's like a "reunion" party.Ha ha..

After ten years, some of them still think that I'm a student activists. Ha ha. Maybe because I look younger than my age.

From time to time more people came. I can see a lot of them are ordinary people who are angry with the way the police arrested Anwar.

Speeches,slogans and some singing attracted the people to stay longer. The police try to harrased the protester but because of unity and solidarity, the people managed to gathered there till late night.

Many thanks to the "angels" who sent mineral waters and food to support the protester and the injustice.

To the police and BN regime, remember, no power can ever defeat the power of the people!

Police want to use 1998 tactic with Anwar

2008-07-14T16:28:00.002+08:00

The Malaysian Insider in their analysis suggested to the police not to use the same tactic to against Anwar. According to them, when the police did this tactic, Anwar will gain more sympathy from the people. Click here to read the analysis.

But from my opinion, police used the same 1998 tactic to provoke Anwar supporters.
Police want Anwar's supporter to react aggressively with series of demonstration so that they have the reason to advice the government for declaring emergency.

But, if Anwar have a numbers, say like 1 million people behind of him, the situation will be the other way round.

Who will win this game?

I don't know. But what i know is that Pak Lah's is not controlling the police now.
The police forces now are with Najib. You don't believe?

You'll see soon.

Carburetor Dung Incident initiates PR downfall?

2008-07-10T16:59:00.001+08:00

Farouk A. Peru
www.peru.name

The word pakatan usually denotes a deal of sorts. Two or more parties berpakat, that is they negotiate a deal, to do something together usually for mutual benefit. As such, the Pakatan Rakyat (PR) is a deal, an ad hoc deal in fact, by the three main opposition parties but we need to ask, what was the pakatan aiming to do?

To form the next government or was it just really an impromptu get together of a bunch of people who were seething mad at the BN government?

To me, the ‘Carburetor Dung Incident’ is indicative of problems PR will face in the future. Carburetor Dung, while being a Malaysian band, hardly represents the Malaysian culture that mainstream Malaysians are used to.

That PAS supporters were reported to have invaded the stage and pulled Alak (the lead singer) off is hardly surprising, given PAS’s fanatical zeal for propriety. I would however like to add that in my view, mainstream Malaysians would probably find Alak’s act to be offensive or at the very least, inappropriate. While they would not invade the stage like hooligans, the fact remains that Alak’s act isn’t in sync with mainstream Malaysian culture.

The bigger implication of this incident is that PR has not yet figured out what it actually is, let alone where it’s going. PR is made up of a party which fights for a secular , socialist state, a party which fights for an Islamic state and finally a party which was formed to liberate a political figure and now that he’s out, have yet to figure out what they’re all about. If PR isn’t what my uncle called a ‘marriage of convenience’ , then I don’t know what is.

To add to this, PR must now handle the cultural incongruence which has inevitably emerged in its culture. It will have to deal with the fact that while some more liberal elements of it’s membership have no problem with bands like Carburetor Dung, the majority would.

Future problems may include serving alcohol at PR meetings if they have any, something which PAS may not just frown upon, but may actually see as a great insult to Islam. PAS’ latest attempt to ensure that Muslim civil servants fulfil their prayer obligations may also be seen as problematic to the image of PR. These problems are only the tip of the iceberg. Since they are rooted in the fundamental differences between the component parties, one must expect emerging problems constantly.

These problems must be solved immediately though if PR is to take over the government. While many of the rakyat are probably fed up with BN, the alternative they see is fuzzy at best and at worst, a coalition with a spectrum of tendencies, ranging from counter-culture bands to hooligan-acting fanatics who wish to Talibanise Malaysia. Not a pleasant change from the status quo, if you ask me.

I will not strike

2008-07-07T13:20:00.004+08:00

I don't understand why a few blogger's go on strike when the country is facing a political crisis. But, i respect their decision. They can go on strike.

For myself, even though my blog is not famous as their blogs, i will continue writing because i believe the bloggers should face the political crisis no matter which side they take.

I strongly support Eli Wong and Susan on this issue. Read the posting from Eli here and Susan here.

Anwar challenges Abdullah-Najib to debate on Fuel Hike

2008-07-07T08:32:00.004+08:00

Anwar's challenges the PM and DPM to debate on fuel hike. While he accepted the debate with Shabery, he still dares PM, DPM to debate with him on fuel prices.

Fuel hike on 4th June that caused a great inflation and difficulties to the majority people

Read more here.

Now, will Abdullah and Najib dares to debate with Anwar on this issue?

The Venue for One Million PROTEST has changed....

2008-07-05T08:19:00.002+08:00

The venue of the event has changer from Padang Timur, Petaling Jaya to Kelana Jaya Stadium.

Click here for more information.

Amnesty International Malaysia Press Statement

2008-07-05T00:36:00.000+08:00

4^th of July , 2008

The recent proposal by the Inspector General of Police to include the Military in public order and security maintenance intervention seems to suggest that the police are seeking extra ordinary reinforcements and power in dealing with public order and security matters especially in dealing with peaceful demonstrations and public assemblies. Amnesty International Malaysia in the past has raised concerns on the excessive use of brutal force to clamp down on peaceful assemblies. We fear that the fused operation would only give space to greater arbitrary action with some very serious result to development of human rights in Malaysia.

It should be noted that the Police Act 1967 spells out the boundaries of all actions and powers in terms of policing in Malaysia. We fear that the inclusion of the Military in public order policing might create an overriding rule of engagement that is inconsistent with the Police Act.

Amnesty International Malaysia is of the opinion that it is highly improper for the military to be used to maintain public order and security as the nature of such policing grants use of force and direct engagements with the public at critical moments. The proposed fused action would also cause confusion in the chain of command, proportionality and necessity in the usage of force and aggression as well as tactics used during public demonstration. This would therefore cause a very serious human rights violation including fatal injuries.

The world has witnessed a very serious human rights violation looking back at the infamous 1972 Bloody Sunday incident in streets of Ireland where 26 people were shot with at least 13 reported dead due to excessive use of force. The incident was reported to occur due to serious breakdown on chain of command and failure in assessing proportionality and necessity in usage of force and aggression. The incident was also recorded to have involved the military in maintaining order during a public demonstration.

We must learn from the 1972 incident. Public order and security concerns are of a public interest matter and such a function must be maintained by a force that is directly accountable to the people who are in this case the police. The police at all times are responsible to maintain and protect the human rights of the people besides maintaining peace and order, hence the proper force to be allowed to engage with the people at any critical moment.

Amnesty International Malaysia hereby emphasize that the Military should only assume temporary jurisdiction on maintenance of public order and security when it's absolutely necessary during emergencies with specific orders and function. We are not at war for the military to step in.

We urge the government to halt the plan and restore order to the policing system in Malaysia.

K.Shan
Campaigns Coordinator
Amnesty International Malaysia

Reminder: 6.7.08

2008-06-30T11:16:00.002+08:00

Dear all fellow Malaysian,

On this coming Sunday, 6th July 2008 (6.7.08), Coalition Against Fuel Hike (PROTES) will organize a demonstration in Padang Timur, Petaling Jaya (In front of Amcorp mall) to against the Fuel Hike.

The event will start at 9 a.m.

PROTES estimate to have 1 million people on that day at the gathering.

I hope that all Malaysian will be there with us.

This is the only chance for us to make some chance. The government don't care about us.

So, we must do something. Join us on 6.7.08 at Padang Timur, PJ.
Show them that we are united to against the Fuel Hike!!!

Najib's game plan?

2008-06-29T17:28:00.003+08:00

Saiful Bahari, the one who lodged the police report against Anwar for sodomy in front of the DPM's office in Putrajaya. Some said that Najib's planted this guy to work with Anwar so that he can monitor the move of the KeAdilan de-facto leader.

So, it's very clear that Anwar's the only one who can stop Najib to be Prime Minister.
Saiful Bahari's with Azalina Othman
Saiful Bahari with Mustapha Mohamed

Saiful Bahari with Shahrir Samad

Anwar's life under threat

2008-06-29T17:16:00.004+08:00

Click here to read the news from The Malaysian Insider and here from Malaysiakini.

PROTES 2008: PEOPLE POWER!!!

2008-06-26T10:32:00.001+08:00

Stop Deceiving and Exploiting the Employers and Maids

2008-06-26T10:28:00.000+08:00

We refer to the Maid Agency Fee hike proposal to RM 8,000 per Indonesian Maid placement by the President of Persatuan Pekerja Asing on June 24, 2008.

PAPA President had deceived the Malaysia Public by comparing the Maid salary in Hong Kong and Taiwan because all the maids that work in these two countries had to go through intensive training and well prepared to carry out the household Chaos. It is wrong to compare Apple for an orange!

Maids heading to Malaysia were not properly trained, they were traded like a human commodity among the Indonesian Agents and Malaysia Agents; the nature of market demand and supply often prevails in PAPA president's media statement.

In the similar issue, the Press Statement issued by the Malaysian Ambassador, Dato' Zainal Abidin Zain in supporting such a proposal in view of the increment of the recruitment cost and levy which should cost more than RM 3,700.

The Media statement issued by Malaysia Ambassador that hiring direct from Indonesia is an act of Human Trafficking is grossly misleading. It has the ill intention to defy the rights of employers to employ the right workers while denying the intelligence of workers to get the best deals.

The basis of Human trafficking must involved the motive of exploitations and profiteering from the victims. Only Malaysia Agents fit this description for the exorbitant fees imposed while oppressing the salary of the Maids.

It is timely for Malaysian Foreign ministry to seriously investigate the possible involvement of our foreign missions in the organized human trafficking via workers agents while the Ambassador may have been confused about the Human trafficking matter and grossly ignored the pleas of Malaysia women illegally trafficked and stranded in Indonesia

We at Migrant Care, Jakarta wish to inform the Malaysia employers and public that:

1. Proposal of PAPA to increase the Maid agency fees to RM 8,000 is grossly unfounded and highly exploitative and unfair to the potential employers.

2. The Official cost involved in the recruitment of the Indonesian Maid is as follows:

Butir- Butir	Kos RM
Passport	100.00
Pemeriksaan Kesihatan	80.00
Kos Latihan 4 -6 minggu	200.00
Tenpat Tinggal dan makan waktu Latihan	200.00
Hantar jemput fdari Kampung	250.00
Tiket Pesawat ke Malaysia	300.00
Keuntungan Agen Indonesia	300.00
Kos Sponsor	600.00
Lain-lain	150.00
Jumlah	2,180.00
Jumlah yang diabayar Majikan	8,000.00
Keuntungan yang di ambil Agen Malaysia	5,820.00

3. The exorbitant charges imposed by Malaysian agents who only provide Data to the end-users do not deserve such a huge profit margin the official cost of hiring is only RM 2,180 per maid while Gross profit distributed among the Human supply chains and corruption is RM 5,820 per person.

4. The Maid salary has been stagnant at RM 450 to RM 500 per months since 2005 but the Agency fees had increased from RM 3,500 to RM 6,000; It is rational to asked why pay more to the human Bio-data traders while the workers still grossly underpaid and far below the Poverty line income of RM 800 per month.

5. Rational Employers should prefer to pay the higher salary to the well trained maid rather than those recruited from very remote village and not properly trained. Its timely to ask ourselves if it is fair to pay 15 months of the salary to the agents who sell bio-data or increase the salary to attract better trained Maids ?

6. Malaysia Anti Corruption Agency should probe into the huge hidden cost in the process of hiring Indonesian maids that may involved Malaysia Embassy in Jakarta and Malaysia Immigration department who are largely responsible for the in take of foreign workers from Indonesia.

The in depth study of South East Asia migration history has proven that the biggest organized Human trafficking syndicates are the licensed and legalized employment agents in Indonesia and Malaysia

Jakarta, Thursday, June 26, 2008

ANIS HIDAYAH (Executive Director) +6281578722874
WAHYU SUSILO (Policy Analyst) +628129307964
ALEX ONG (Malaysia Representative) +60163121201

Market full of oil, price trend "fake" - Ahmadinejad

2008-06-18T06:27:00.002+08:00

By Hashem Kalentari

ISFAHAN, Iran (Reuters) - The oil market is plentifully supplied and the rally to record high prices is "fake and imposed", Iran's president said on Tuesday, blaming a weak U.S. dollar which he suggested was being pushed lower on purpose.

"At a time when the growth of consumption is lower than the growth of production and the market is full of oil, prices are rising and this trend is completely fake and imposed," Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said.

"It is very clear that visible and invisible hands are controlling prices in a fake way with political and economic aims," he said when opening a meeting of the OPEC Fund for International Development in the central city of Isfahan.

With high fuel prices sparking protests worldwide, Ahmadinejad hit out at energy taxes in consumer nations. He said there was an "unfair" difference in income between energy exporting and importing countries.

Iran, the world's fourth-largest oil exporter, has repeatedly said the market is well-supplied with crude and blames rising prices on speculation, a weak dollar and geopolitical factors.

Oil steadied on Tuesday after touching a record near $140 the previous day, with traders caught between a weaker dollar and expectations that top exporter Saudi Arabia will ramp up output to its highest rate in decades.

Iran has often said it sees no need for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to boost output, as the United States and other big oil consumers want.

"As you know the decrease in the dollar's value and the increase in energy prices are two sides of the same coin which are being introduced as factors behind the recent instability," Ahmadinejad said.

"EVER-INCREASING DECREASE"

The president reiterated his view that oil should be sold in a basket of currencies rather than dollars, an idea which has failed to win over other OPEC members, except Venezuela.

"The ever-increasing decrease in the dollar's value is one of the world's major problems," he said.

"A combination of the world's valid currencies should become a basis for oil transactions or (OPEC) member countries should determine a new currency for oil transactions," he said.

He expressed support for a proposal by Venezuela's anti-U.S. President Hugo Chavez to create a bank constituted by OPEC members to act as a counterweight to U.S. influence in the world. He also advocated the establishment of an oil bourse.

Iran, embroiled in a standoff with the West over its nuclear programme, has for more than two years been increasing its sales of oil for currencies other than the dollar, saying the weak U.S. unit is eroding its purchasing power.

Ahmadinejad, who has called the dollar a "worthless piece of paper", suggested a part of its decline was deliberate, without naming any country:

"The planners for some big powers are acting to decrease the dollar's value," he said. "For years they imposed inflation and their own economic problems on other nations by injecting the dollar without any support to the global economy."

Foes since Iran's 1979 Islamic revolution, Tehran and Washington are also at odds over Tehran's disputed nuclear activities. Iran says its atomic work is peaceful.

(Reporting by Zahra Hosseinian in Tehran; Writing by Fredrik Dahl; Editing by William Hardy)

Syed Husin's book launch

2008-06-15T00:28:00.007+08:00

It was a happy day for the Deputy President of People Justice Party, Dr. Syed Husin Ali. The hall at Armada Hotel was full with the crowd to see the launching of the book from one of the famous Malaysian public intellectual.

I saw a lot of leftist "Old-Timer". They all came to support Dr. Syed. Including our Pak Said Zahari who was been detained under ISA in Singapore by Lee Kuan Yew for 17 years.

Dr. Syed former student, Anwar Ibrahim launched the book. "The Malays" will be a useful book especially for those who want to understand the Malays in a different perspective.

Goodbye BN..... The end of Racial Politics

2008-06-14T14:12:00.003+08:00

Yesterday, the protester reclaim the streets again. After Abdullah-Najib government announced the fuel hike on 4th June 2008, this is the biggest protest from the people.

On 5th July 2008, PROTES Coalition and GERAMM will take the streets again. But this time they target to get 1 million numbers.

If this happened, we can say goodbye to BN and their racial politics.

Time will tell....

Join the Protes

2008-06-09T19:25:00.002+08:00

On 12th July 2008, Protes will organize a big demonstration against the Fuel Hike. The demonstration will be on 3 pm at KLCC.

For more information, click the official blog here.

Fuel Hike: Pak Lah-Najib declaration of war againts the people

2008-06-05T20:44:00.006+08:00

Fuel hike again.

Secretary General of Socialist Party of Malaysia (PSM) said that it was an open war declaration from the government against the people.

Below is his statement:

PRESS STATEMENT : 5 JUNE 2008

FUEL HIKE – DECLARATION OF WAR AGAINST THE PEOPLE

The announcement by the Prime Minister of increasing the price of fuel by 78 sen and increasing diesel by RM 1 added with the increase in electricity as well lifting the cap on chicken prices tantamounts to as a declaration of war against the ordinary people of Malaysia. Last night, thousands of motorists queued for hours to buy fuel at the old price. The scene was chaotic and resembled a nation preparing for emergency. While the Prime Minister very bravely increased the price of fuel, similar commitment was not shown when workers demanded a minimum wage act to be implemented as well as a retrenchment fund to cushion workers who may face retrenchment because of the economic crisis and world food crisis. The Government’s move to give rebates to consumers is a further insult to our intelligence. The Prime Minister said further that the money saved will be used to offset the world food crisis. This was the same logic given when the Government came out with the 30sen fuel hike. Then, we were taken for a ride and told the money will be used to improve the public transportation system. The fuel hike is a declaration of war. Only when the people own their oil, can it be put to good use. Venezuela a country which charges only 16 sen per litre and the revenue for oil is used by the Venezuelan state to give free education and health care, besides helping poor neighboring nations. This was only possible when a revolutionary Government under the leadership of Hugo Chavez with people power took over the Petrol Company and nationalized it. Malaysia’s PETRONAS is nationalized but it is not in the control of the people, especially the working people. PSM supports any move to mobilize people power to remedy this situation. We call upon all political parties and peoples movements to rise up to demand and reclaim what is ours. Waiting in queues is not going to bring about political change.

S.Arutchelvan Secretary General

Do you know how much is the oil price in other oil producing countries?
Look at the table:

In India, big protest was organized against the fuel hike. Click here.

Malaysiakini reported that Protes will organize a big demonstration against the fuel hike on 12th July. Click here.

Spirit of Chun Doo Hwan return in South Korea?

2008-06-03T09:10:00.000+08:00

S Korea beef protesters detained

2008-06-02T16:31:00.000+08:00

Dozens of people were injured as water cannon were fired on protesters

South Korean police have clashed with demonstrators in the capital Seoul during protests over government plans to resume US beef imports.

They fired water cannon and arrested more than 200 of the protesters, who say the move does not protect consumers against mad cow disease.

At least 20,000 people gathered in Seoul for the latest in a month-long series of rallies on the issue.

Polls say the popularity of President Lee Myung-Bak has plummeted.

The worst clashes occurred when some protesters tried to march toward the presidential residence, the Blue House.

Police deployed water cannon in three areas to try to disperse the crowds. Dozens of people were hurt.

Washington deal

Seoul's beef market was closed to US imports in 2003 after the first US case of the disease was found in a Canadian-born cow in Washington state.

Under a deal reached with Washington in April, Seoul agreed to accept all cuts of US beef from cattle of all ages.

Other US trading partners such as Japan still will not do so because of concerns over mad cow disease and its deadly human variant, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

The deal was announced during a visit to the US by President Lee, and was described by his critics as a move to please Washington.

Reports say the reaction to the deal has taken him by surprise.

Mr Lee took office in February on a wave of popularity, vowing to improve the economy.

From BBC.

Electoral reforms in Malaysia

2008-06-02T10:42:00.003+08:00

A few days ago, Abdul Rashid Abdul Rahman, the chairperson of SPR proposed to re-register the 10.9 voters in Malaysia to ensure that the voters list is clean.

I have my opinion on this. Click here.

What is your opinion? Is it a good idea?

Here's the Acting Kelantan MB

2008-05-27T11:50:00.001+08:00

News from Bernama:

Husam Is Acting Kelantan Menteri Besar For Two Weeks

KOTA BAHARU, May 26 (Bernama) -- State Economic Planning, Finance and Welfare Committee chairman Datuk Husam Musa will be Kelantan acting Menteri Besar for two weeks as Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat will be away for umrah.

Nik Aziz said Husam was chosen because Deputy Menteri Besar Datuk Ahmad Yaakob was being treated at Universiti Sains Malaysia Hospital (HUSM) following a heart attack early Saturday.

His condition is reported to be stable and he needs enough rest.

Speaking to reporters at the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport here before leaving for umrah, Nik Aziz said Husam would begin his duty as acting MB tomorrow until his return on Sept 9.

Husam is a senior member of the state executive council and is Kelantan PAS Deputy Commissioner II while Ahmad is Deputy Commissioner I.

As Menteri Besar, Nik Aziz also holds the Land, Forestry and Natural Resource portfolio.

-- BERNAMA

Ezam to re-enter Umno?

2008-05-25T16:49:00.002+08:00

Many friends called and sms to asked regarding Ezam to re-enter Umno. I told them that i don't know about that.

I remember in 2007 when Ezam came to Gwangju, South Korea for attending the International Advisory Meeting organized by The May 18 Memorial Foundation. Wardah Hafidz, Rashid Kang and Jinggoi was there as well.

Ezam was very impressed with the democracy development in South Korea and told me that one day when he got the power, he will do the same thing to strengthen democracy in Malaysia.

To my bro Ezam, whatever your decision, just remember that ISA should be abolished, Press should be here and democracy should be strengthen in our country.

I'm waiting for your PC next week.

Read the posting from Gary when he and his family visited Ezam and other ISA detainees in 2002. Click here.

Rocky Bru on TV 1

2008-05-25T16:25:00.003+08:00

Tonight the Protem President of All- Blogs, Mr. Ahirudin Attan a.k.a Rocky Bru will appear on TV 1. Click here.

"Blogs" that initiated by TV 1 after the results of 12th General Election is one of the way for Shabery Cheek to "engaged" the bloggers.

How far will he?

Time has come for Local Council Election

2008-05-25T16:18:00.002+08:00

It's a hard weekend for the Pasar Minggu, Kampung Baru folks. The village that they stayed for a long-long time suddenly been gazetted as "Setinggan" by Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL). Read more here and here.

Another lost for Malaysia

2008-05-23T22:24:00.002+08:00

ICJ just announced today that Pulau Batu Puteh belongs to Singapore. Click here for the news from Malaysiakini.

Another lost for Malaysia. Since independence, this is the second time. In 1965, Malaysia lost Singapore itself.

It seems like the ruling party (Barisan Nasional) who has ruled the country for more than 50 years could not defend the sovereignty of the country.

And yet some of us really try very hard to defend Barisan Nasional from collapse. Why should we?

Songs for Today

2008-05-23T10:45:00.001+08:00

Maybe this song is suitable for us at this time.

And this:

Both from the genius Bob Dylan.

Police report lodged againts Prime Minister and 3 others

2008-05-23T00:11:00.006+08:00

Today, Coalition for Free and Fair Election (BERSIH) and National Institute for Electoral Integrity (NIEI) lodged a police report against Prime Minister, IGP, AG and EC Chairman on the issue of the cancellation the use of indelible ink for the last general election.

Faisal Mustaffa came to represent BERSIH and me myself represent NIEI. Besides that, Chegubard came along with us.

Related news:

1) Indelible ink ‘conspiracy’: Report lodged : Malaysiakini

2) Indelible ink fiasco: Police report againts PM, 3 others : The Malaysian Insider

3) Police report lodged against PM, EC chairman : The Star

Below is the video from Malaysiakini:

Video from Adil TV:

Mukhriz betrayed his father....

2008-05-20T20:51:00.003+08:00

The youngest child of Dr. Mahathir, Mukhriz Mahathir announced that he will not leave Umno as what his father did yesterday.

The MP of Jerlun told the press that he will continue to fight within Umno and urged Abdullah Badawi to resign from all posts. Click here to read the news from The Malaysian Insider.

Whatever Mukhriz want to do inside Umno he cannot deny the fact that he betrayed his father who urged all Umno members who are not satisfied with the current leadership to leave the party.

Pity Mahathir. Even his son don't follow his step.

Mahathir: Bye-bye Umno

2008-05-19T19:08:00.002+08:00

After four years attacking Abdullah consistently, finally Mahathir left Umno. A new episode of Malaysian politics. Mahathir will follow the steps of Dato Onn, Tunku Abdul Rahman and Tun Hussein Onn, died outside Umno.

Now is the time to see Mukhriz and the others to follow his steps.

If this happen, it will be the happiest moment for PM son in law.

Brutal murder of a Mongolian beauty

2008-05-17T23:11:00.001+08:00

Murder suspects Azilah Hadri and Sirul Azhar Umar lodged a police report against blogger Raja Petra Raja Kamarudin over an allegation he made in his weblog. The blogger is facing charges over what he wrote about the murder trial in his blog.

by The Court Room Stomp

THE CASE

28-year-old Mongolian beauty Ms Altantuya Shaariibuu with her younger son, Atanshagai.

She was shot twice in the head and her body blown up with plastic explosives.

28-year-old Mongolian model Altantuya Shaariibuu was allegedly killed after she demanded US $500,000 ($770,000) from her former lover, political analyst Abdul Razak Baginda to provide medical treatment for their sick son.

She had arrived in Kualar Lumpur with two other Mongolian women on Oct 8 last year, and had went to Abdul Razak's office and house several times to look for him but was rebuffed by his security guards.

After she arrived, she apparently hired a private detective to find out more about her lover. She was also reported to have sent him many SMS messages.

Mr Abdul Razak Baginda,
former lover of Ms Altantuya Shaariibuu

On Oct 19, she received a phone call to meet Abdul Razak at his house. When she showed up outside his house, she was allegedly seized by several men, bundled into a car and driven away. That was the last time she was seen alive.

Abdul Razak has been charged with abetting her murder while two policemen from an elite unit, Chief Inspector Azilah Hadri, 30, and Corporal Sirul Azhar Umar, 35, are accused of murdering her.

WHAT HAPPENED

7 NOV 2006

Police at Subang Dam, where the bone fragments of Mongolian model, Miss Altantuya Shaariibuu were found

Police find bone fragments, believed to belong to Ms Shaariibuu at a ditch in a secluded area near a dam in Puncak Alam.

Three police officers have been arrested in connection with the case. They include a chief inspector who is a member of the security detail of a Cabinet minister, a corporal attached to a commando squad responsible for protecting VIPs and a woman anti-vice detective. Two private investigators are also remanded.

Ms Shaariibuu's former lover, 46-year-old Mr Abdul Razak Baginda is picked up for questioning. A court allowed the police to detain him for five more days to help in investigations.

9 NOV 2006

Location where parts of Ms Altantuya Shaariibuu's
body were found.

10 of Ms Shaariibuu's relatives arrived late amid tight security at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Her father, Mr Shaariibuu Setev, is believed to be among them. They evaded a waiting media contingent and were taken immediately to the Kuala Lumpur Police headquarters to assist in investigations.

Ms Shaariibuu's father is expected to provide DNA samples to facilitate the identification of her remains.

Meanwhile, police investigators continued to scour the secluded site outside the city where the bone fragments were found for more evidence.

Some of her personal effects, said to be a ring, a ear-ring and a wristwatch, have also been recovered.

But it is not known if these items, which are being used to help identify her, were recovered from her hotel room or the site where her body was found.

Investigators also brought Mr Abdul Razak yesterday to his office near the Petronas Twin Towers.

They are believed to have seized documents and CCTV footage from his office.

15 NOV 2006

Two policemen from an elite unit- Chief Inspector Azilah Hadri, 31, and Corporal Sirul Azhar Umar, 36 are charged with murdering Ms Altantuya Shaariibuu

The results of DNA tests have confirmed that the bone fragments came from Miss Shaariibuu.

Two Malaysian policemen were charged with the murder of Mongolian model Altantuya Shaariibuu. Both men, who appeared tired but calm, were taken to court in handcuffs and nodded when asked if they understood the charge. No plea was recorded. The accused are with an elite police tactical unit called the Unit Tindakan Khas (Special Forces Unit), which protects VIPs.

Another police officer who was detained, an unnamed female corporal, was released on bail.

The next day, on 16 Nov, Abdul Razak was charged with abetting the murder of a Mongolian model and is facing a possible death sentence.

24 NOV 2006

Abdul Razak Baginda was freed on bail yesterday after he pleaded not guilty to conspiring to murder a Mongolian woman.

It was a surprising decision, as those implicated in murder cases in Malaysia are rarely allowed to be freed on bail as conviction carries a mandatory death sentence. Abdul Razak appeared frail and dazed in the dock, but smiled and hugged his lawyer and family on news that he would be released.

Under the terms of his release, Abdul Razak's passport was impounded, but neither he nor his family was required to deposit the 1 million ringgit with the court. Instead, Abdul Razak's brother, Rani Abdullah, and sister, Rohani Abdullah – who signed the sureties for his release – would be fined 100,000 ringgit each time he failed to make a court appearance.

15 DEC 2006

Abdul Razak waving to the crowd as he enters the High Court

The prosecutor in the murder case of Altantuya Shaariibuu has asked a High Court judge for an early trial date to quell rumours that persons other than the three accused men were involved.The court yesterday was packed with more than 100 members of the public,lawyers, reporters and family members of the three accused.

Although the hearing started after 9am, the courtroom was full by 8am.

Policemen had to lock the doors to prevent more people from entering.

Responding to the prosecution yesterday, Judicial Commissioner Zaki Md Yasin said the trial date would be set on Jan 5, when the case is mentioned before the designated trial judge, Datuk K.N. Segara.

He also granted bail to Abdul Razak for medical reasons which is an earlier decision by the Kuala Lumpur High Court last month.

But unlike the Kuala Lumpur High Court, which did not ask for bail to be deposited, he ordered the sum of RM1 million (S$434,000) to be deposited with the court before Abdul Razak could be released.

Abdul Razak managed to raise bail by 3pm and left the courthouse with his family in a Mercedes-Benz car.

6 JAN 2007

Ms Mazlinda Makhzan, Abdul Razak Baginda's wife, lashing out at photographers outside the court on Friday as her husband is led away to prison to await trial next year.

A HIGH Court judge in Kualar Lumpur yesterday sent Abdul Razak to jail to await trial for the murder of Mongolian model Altantuya Shaariibuu, as they denied him bail after it expired last week. Abdul Razak, 46, was originally granted bail in November of RM1million (S$437,000) on the grounds of poor health.

Judge K.N. Segara rejected an oral plea for an extension of Abdul Razak's bail, but said he would hear a formal application on Jan19.

Dressed in a blue shirt and black trousers, Abdul Razak appeared calm and cheerful as he arrived in court for the hearing with his family.

But he looked shocked at the judge's decision not to extend the bail.

The judge, Datuk Segara, has set the trial date for Abdul Razak along with the main accused policemen for March 2008.

21 JAN 2007

Razak Baginda with his family at Shah Alam High Court. Prominent political analyst Abdul Razak Baginda being led away by police. He has admitted to having an affair with Mongolian model Altantuya Shaariibuu but denies having her killed.

Prominent political analyst Abdul Razak Baginda admitted to police that he had an affair with murdered Mongolian model Altantuya Shaariibuu.

Ironically, the move was an apparent attempt by his lawyer, Mr Wong to show that while his client was guilty of infidelity to his wife and family, he had no connection to her murder.

His lawyer hoped that strategy would convince the court to release him on bail rather than keep him behind bars until his trial in March next year.

Despite appearing to come clean about his role in Miss Altantuya's death, he failed to move the judge.

The judge sent Abdul Razak back to jail.

10 MAR 2006

The murder trial was yesterday brought forward by nine months, and will be heard by a different judge.

Judicial Commissioner Mohammed Zaki Md Yasin has set a one-month period, from June 4 to 29, for the trial of prominent political analyst Abdul Razak Baginda and two policemen for the murder of a Mongolian model last year.

Datuk Mohd Zaki explained at the hearing that the trial had been brought forward because of the recent appointment of more judges to clear a backlog of cases.

THE HIGH COURT TRIAL BEGINS

Abdul Razak 'hired private eye to keep ex-lover away'

Mongolian asked for US$500,000 in cash, says witness

'Harassment did not end' with Altantuya's death

Did private eye's assistant have affair with Mongolian woman?

Altantuya gave me emergency list, says cousin

Judge separates feuding families in Altantuya trial

Immigration records deleted: Altantuya's friend

Mongolian victim 'claimed she married Abdul Razak'

Witness told to read her SMS threat aloud in court

Abdul Razak trial: Cop's ex-girlfriend testifies

Azilah, Sirul lodge police report against Raja Petra Kamarudin

Taken from here.

Suhakam slams Malaysian Electoral process

2008-05-14T15:17:00.002+08:00

Now they are barking. This is what a National Human Rights Institution should do.

Suhakam slams the Malaysian electoral process. Click here to see the news from Malaysiakini.

What will be the SPR respond?

What will be PM respond?

What will be DPM respond?

Barack Obama, Reverend Wright and Black liberation theology

2008-05-14T09:04:00.000+08:00

By Malik Miah

The groundswell of broad support for Barack Obama (both among Blacks and whites) is a phenomenon that deserves a serious analysis and understanding. It cannot be downplayed by passing it through the lens of pure-and-simple lesser-evilism.

Some radicals dismiss the mass phenomenon, because Obama is a candidate of a ruling-class party. That simplistic rejection of Obama's campaign and its mass support is sectarian: The issue isn't whether to vote for a Democrat, but rather our response to a development that is having a wide-scale impact. How many times, in state after state, have we ever seen citizens of all races line up for hours to hear an African-American man talk about “hope'', on a platform that is fundamentally no different than his opponents?

While I do sympathise with those activists choosing the Green Party campaign of Cynthia McKinney or the “independent” Ralph Nader for their more progressive political program, I believe progressives and socialists should focus our attentions on critically engaging Obama supporters, identifying with their desire for a “new type of politics and direction for the country” — while explaining that Obama is no answer to stop the aggressive wars of US. imperialism.

In that spirit of critical engagement, an objective evaluation of Obama's support, and why it's grown, is instructive.

Mass appeal beyond electoralism

The mass sentiment for the Obama campaign represents more than pure electoralism. It indicates a possible shift in political consciousness, which can either lead to broad-scale disillusionment or begin to awaken the new young generation to engage in more radical politics when the first African-American president acts like all his predecessors in defending the imperial state.

The Obama phenomenon is a result of fears and frustrations, and of hopes that the country can be better. Most Blacks, of course, are excited by an unprecedented possibility of a “Black president''. Others, including many white workers, are fed up with standing still or going backward as the country enters a recession. Obama taps these multiple anxieties. His mass rallies show the desire for change.

The “messiah effect” is why Obama could take on the issue of “race and racism” in the way he did on March 18 in Philadelphia. It's appropriate to look at that speech and fallout — some 40 years after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. — to see the complexities of racial progress.

Outstanding speech

As a Democrat and mainstream politician, Obama's speech was far superior to what anyone on the left or the country likely expected. Some have criticised it for not analysing the institutional racism deeply embedded in capitalism — another case of looking much too narrowly at what Obama means for tens of millions of people.

Overall, this was an outstanding speech. Obama refused to throw his former Chicago minister, Reverend Jeremiah Wright, under the moving bus for Wright's sermon outlining the history of violence by the rulers of the United States.

(It should be noted that Obama later told the ABC daytime talk show, The View: “Had the reverend not retired, and had he not acknowledged that what he had said had deeply offended people and was inappropriate and mischaracterised what I believe is the greatness of this country — for all its flaws — then I wouldn't have felt comfortable staying there at the church.'')

The speech's significance, however, is not what he said or didn't say about Reverend Wright. It is the fact that Obama dared to elaborate on the topic to a national audience even if it hurt his chances to win the presidential nomination or to be elected in November. It confirmed to his followers and detractors alike that he is a different kind of mainstream politician.

Obama outlined the origins of American racism from the dawn of English colonialism and independence to the present — the slave trade, chattel slavery, Jim Crow segregation and the racism still prevalent in society, especially among many whites who speak and act certain ways in private, not necessarily consciously but because of cultural upbringing.

Obama told the story of his white Kansas grandmother, who feared Black men even though she loved him. These honest views are felt by all ethnic groups. Everyone has similar family contradictions.

Obama did not discuss institutional discrimination and disadvantages that “people of colour” still face for simply being Black, Latino, Native American or Asian — something a white person has never experienced. That discrimination is why some employment and other opportunities are not offered, or the benefit of the doubt not given, by a mostly white male-dominated power structure.

Yet he went further than I expected, which is the only way to view his comments on Reverend Jeremiah Wright and racial politics. It's why what he said about Wright rang true to the audience:

“Given my background, my politics, and my professed values and ideals, there will no doubt be those for whom my statements of condemnation [of Reverend Wright's ‘divisive' comments] are not enough.... But the truth is that isn't all that I know of the man.

“The man I met more than twenty years ago is a man who helped introduce me to my Christian faith, a man who spoke to me about our obligations to love one another; to care for the sick and lift up the poor.... who served his country as a US marine; who has studied and lectured at some of the finest universities and seminaries in the country, and who for over thirty years led a church that serves the community (by) housing the homeless, ministering to the needy, providing day care services and scholarships and prison ministries, and reaching out to those suffering from HIV/AIDS…

“Not once in my conversations with him have I heard him talk about any ethnic group in derogatory terms, or treat whites with whom he interacted with anything but courtesy and respect. He contains within him the contradictions — the good and the bad — of the community that he has served diligently for so many years.

``I can no more disown him than I can disown the Black community. I can no more disown him than I can my white grandmother...''.

Wright is no hatemonger

Reverend Jeremiah Wright is no “hatemonger” as slandered by the right and many Clinton supporters. He did not give a “hate” speech. His sermons are, in fact, in the best tradition of Black liberation theology.

Read what Reverend Wright (now retired) said in his now infamous December 2007 speech:

“We took this country by terror away from the Sioux, the Apache, Arikara, the Comanche, the Arapaho, and the Navajo. Terrorism.

“We took Africans away from their country to build our way of ease and kept them enslaved and living in fear. Terrorism.

“We bombed Grenada and killed innocent civilians, babies and non-military personnel'', he preached.

“We bombed the Black civilian community of Panama with stealth bombers and killed unarmed teenagers and toddlers, pregnant mothers and hard working fathers.

“We bombed Qaddafi's home, and killed his child. ‘Blessed are they who bash your children's head against the rock.' [This is a reference to the seldom-quoted final two verses of Psalm 137, which was Reverend Wright's text for this sermon on the dangers of revenge lust — MM.]

“We bombed Iraq. We killed unarmed civilians trying to make a living. We bombed a plant in Sudan to pay back for the attack on our embassy, killed hundreds of hard working people, mothers and fathers who left home to go to work that day not knowing that they'd never get back home.

“We bombed Hiroshima. We bombed Nagasaki, and we nuked far more than the thousands in New York and the Pentagon and we never batted an eye.

“Kids playing in the playground. Mothers picking up children after school. Civilians, not soldiers, people just trying to make it day by day.

“We have supported state terrorism against the Palestinians and Black South Africans, and now we are indignant because the stuff that we have done overseas is now brought right back into our own front yards. America's chickens are [here the congregation joins in completing the sentence —MM] coming home to roost.

“Violence begets violence. Hatred begets hatred. And terrorism begets terrorism. A white ambassador [a US diplomat previously quoted in Wright's sermon —MM] said that y'all, not a Black militant. Not a reverend who preaches about racism. An ambassador whose eyes are wide open and who is trying to get us to wake up and move away from this dangerous precipice upon which we are now poised. The ambassador said the people we have wounded don't have the military capability we have. But they do have individuals who are willing to die and take thousands with them. And we need to come to grips with that''.

True or false?

King's precedent

In 1967 and 1968, shortly before his assassination, Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke at the Riverside Church in New York City about the Vietnam War. This is what he said:

“The only change came from America, as we increased our troop commitments in support of governments which were singularly corrupt, inept, and without popular support. All the while the people read our leaflets and received the regular promises of peace and democracy and land reform. Now they languish under our bombs and consider us, not their fellow Vietnamese, the real enemy. They move sadly and apathetically as we herd them off the land of their fathers into concentration camps where minimal social needs are rarely met. They know they must move on or be destroyed by our bombs''.

King called for the immediate end to this “madness''. In his 1968 speech at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, he returned to the theme:

“It is said on the Statue of Liberty that America is a home of exiles. It doesn't take us long to realise that America has been the home of its white exiles from Europe. But it has not evinced the same kind of maternal care and concern for its Black exiles from Africa. It is no wonder that in one of his sorrow songs, the Negro could sing out, “Sometimes I feel like a motherless child''. What great estrangement, what great sense of rejection caused a people to emerge with such a metaphor as they looked over their lives''.

He added:

“There are those, and they are often sincere people, who say to Negroes and their allies in the white community, that we should slow up and just be nice and patient and continue to pray, and in a hundred or two hundred years the problem will work itself out because only time can solve the problem''.

“I think there is an answer to that myth. And it is that time is neutral. It can be used either constructively or destructively. And I'm absolutely convinced that the forces of ill-will in our nation, the extreme rightists in our nation, have often used time much more effectively than the forces of good will. And it may well be that we will have to repent in this generation not merely for the vitriolic words of the bad people and the violent actions of the bad people, but for the appalling silence and indifference of the good people who sit around and say wait on time.

“Somewhere we must come to see that social progress never rolls in on the wheels of inevitability. It comes through the tireless efforts and the persistent work of dedicated Individuals. And without this hard work time itself becomes an ally of the primitive forces of social stagnation. And so we must help time, and we must realise that the time is always right to do right''.

Wright and King delivered the same message of truth.

Black liberation theology

This political mixture of the Black Christian church and militancy has deep origins in the African-American community. It is called “Black liberation theology''. It is rooted in Black nationalism and the traditions of Black radicalism. It goes back to the resistance to slavery. The modern version arose during the civil rights movement. It basically combines the philosophy of the Black Christian church and Black nationalism.

Supporters of the ideology of Black liberation theology believe that the system can be reformed and Blacks can bring themselves up by the bootstraps and become full equals in US society. The advocates see a future where the poor can become middle class and CEOs of major corporations; and, of course, elected US senator or even president of the country — some day.

* * * *

* * *

One of the main intellectual articulators of the theory is the Reverend James Hal Cone of Arkansas. As part of his theological analysis, Cone argues for God's own identification with “Blackness''. He explains in A Black Theology of Liberation:

“The Black theologian must reject any conception of God which stifles Black self-determination by picturing God as a God of all peoples. Either God is identified with the oppressed to the point that their experience becomes God's experience, or God is a God of racism... The Blackness of God means that God has made the oppressed condition God's own condition. This is the essence of the Biblical revelation. By electing Israelite slaves as the people of God and by becoming the Oppressed One in Jesus Christ, the human race is made to understand that God is known where human beings experience humiliation and suffering... Liberation is not an afterthought, but the very essence of divine activity'' (pp. 63-64).

Based on the preeminence of “Black experience'', Cone defines theology as “a rational study of the being of God in the world in light of the existential situation of an oppressed community, relating the forces of liberation to the essence of the gospel, which is Jesus Christ''.

Cone's theology asks (and seeks to answer) the question, “What does the Christian gospel have to say to powerless Black men whose existence is threatened daily by the insidious tentacles of white power?” His answer emphasises that there is a very close relationship between Black theology and what has been termed “Black Power''.

Black power is a phrase that represents both Black freedom and Black self-determination “wherein Black people no longer view themselves as without human dignity but as men, human beings with the ability to carve out their own destiny''. Cone says Black theology is the religious counterpart of Black power. “Black Theology is the theological arm of Black Power, and Black Power is the political arm of Black Theology''. And “while Black Power focuses on the political, social, and economic condition of Black people, Black Theology puts Black identity in a theological context''.

Black nationalists (self-identified or not; few are today) — whether of the Booker T. Washington philosophy of seeking to reform the system, or the more militant Black power ideology of Marcus Garvey and the 1960s followers of Malcolm X — all argued that Blacks must pull themselves up and stand on their own two feet.

Wright's United Church of Christ congregation includes middle-class Blacks like Obama but in the majority are poor and working class. Reverend Wright speaks to the reality of Black history and the subtle and actual racism that his typical church goer has experienced.

His sermons are mainstream, and not anti-American — or against capitalism. He is a “patriot'', as Obama described; but he is the Black American version, who serves as a medic for the marines, fights the wars and comes home to face racial discrimination!

To Reverend Wright there is no contradiction in condemning real racism and urging Blacks to take more personal responsibility for the problems of their community. This is not “radical” or “hate” speech. His criticisms are based on hard facts, not make-believe or white liberal conservative views of patriotism. It's that understanding that enables him to make the comparison between the US empire today and that of the Roman era.

In Wright's speech before the National Press Club, he identifed himself with Black liberation theology and pointed out that the attack on Obama and him by the corporate media and others is in reality an attack on the Black community.

Barack Obama, the former Chicago community organiser, learned his roots as a Black man at his wife's church. He learned his internationalist outlook from his white mother, who worked among the poor in Indonesia. But he is not an advocate of Black liberation theology even though he listened to Wright for 20 years. That's why he can say he never heard Wright speak the words he did last December. He did, and probably nodded in agreement — but as a mainstream presidential candidate with a chance of winning the presidency, of course, he must disassociate from Wright.

Those who expect otherwise are not realistic. The way he did so, by rejecting but not throwing Wright under the bus, was a nod to his youthful base and recognition of his historical roots in the Black community.

Obama is obviously aware of what is called the “Bradley effect”, where a certain percentage of whites will never vote for an African American as president. (The Bradley factor refers to Tom Bradley, the African-American former mayor of Los Angeles, who had a double digit lead in the 1982 California governor's election days before the vote. He then narrowly lost due to racial dynamics — whites telling pollsters one thing, and voting the opposite.)

Barack Obama is also a strong proponent of modern-day Black capitalism. He told Business Week (April 14 issue) that, “My opponents to the right like to paint me as this wild-eyed liberal. But I believe in the market. I believe in entrepreneurship''.

(Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson is one of most prominent advocates of the market system and Black capitalism. The concept of Black capitalism has evolved over the decades. It used to mean advocating an independent “Black economy” —- tied to the nationalist goal of “Black control of the Black community” — tapping the US$800 billion spent by African Americans within the US economy. Today it means striving and believing it is possible to become a capitalist like Bill Gates.)

Ironically, there has been more success in gaining a foothold in big business than in the political arena where Obama is the only Black in the US Senate. Several African Americans have become heads of major corporations. Forty years ago there were none. African American Stanley O'Neil, for example, was CEO of Merrill Lynch, one of the largest investment firms on Wall Street. His grandfather had been a slave.

Since the decline of the civil rights and Black power movements in the 1970s, the conservative pro-big business wing dominates the discussion on improving the lives of African Americans. Traditional Black nationalism, including those who reject “Black capitalism'', has few advocates today.

What next?

If Obama happens to get the Democratic nomination and wins the presidency it can sharpen the debates even more. That's good for society. The real test is yet to come when the Republican right launches its inevitable race-baiting. To this point, the integration of elite African Americans in business, media, the military and politics has made that less effective.

The most interesting aspect about the Obama campaign for me, and what should be for those on the left of the political spectrum, is the mass consciousness unfolding in front of our eyes in support of a “colour blind” or non-racial society. It is evident in all 50 states where “race does not matter” the way it did in the past.

Obama's speech on race, and more importantly his campaign, has initiated a broad discussion about US history including its violence, racist past and why young people need to engage in politics. It could not happen if that change in attitudes weren't taking place.

The left in particular should resist a sectarian response towards this unique mass phenomenon for Obama. The critical choice isn't about voting for Obama, or even a third party alternative. Progressive political consciousness at the end of the day is not primarily an intellectual transformation. For most, it occurs by joining struggles to end wars and occupations like Iraq and Afghanistan, fighting racism and ending economic inequalities.

I for one think it is important to critically embrace those backing Obama's campaign. It is not a betrayal of socialist principles to do so.

[Malik Miah is editor of the US socialist magazine Against the Current, where this article first appeared. He is a supporter of the US socialist organisation Solidarity.]

We are with you, RPK....

2008-05-07T08:44:00.004+08:00

Yesterday at Jalan Duta Court.Now, Raja Petra Kamarudin (RPK) is in Sungai Buloh Prison. He refused to be bail.Viva RPK. You will never walk alone!!!

All photo's by Kharis Idris.

Son In Law refuse to comment over "Beruk" remarks

2008-05-05T21:57:00.002+08:00

After he managed to trapped "Hishamuddin Keris" to apologize on Keris issue, now the press and media people is going after him to ask whether he's ready to apologize regarding his "Beruk" remark to the Bersih's protester last year.

With his normal style and arrogant, the son in law refused to comment when asked by the journalist. Click here to read the news from Malaysiakini.

Police came to RPK again?

2008-05-05T21:28:00.011+08:00

Picture courtesy to Susan Loone.

Updates:

Original Posting

Just received sms from Isham Rais.

The sms sounds,

"World Alert! The cops coming in 2 Petra tonite at 10pm. Alert everyone.
Please follow the development. TQ, Isham Rais."

For everyone who read this posting, please check whether this news is true or not.

Thanks.

Amin Iskandar @ Black.

The ballad of Khir Toyo and Samy Vellu

2008-04-29T23:46:00.002+08:00

The battle between Khir Toyo and Samy Vellu still ongoing. Both of them are blaming each other regarding the demolition of kampung Rimba Jaya Hindu temple last year. Is this the "loser"syndrome?

Click here to read the news from Malaysiakini.

My ADUN - Assemblyman reaches out to the poor (The Star)

2008-04-25T14:32:00.002+08:00

My ADUN

Full name: Dr Mohd Nasir Hashim (PSM)
Age: 61
Marital status: Divorcee with four children and three grandchildren
Hometown: Malacca
Education: Royal Military College (RMC), Cornell University, USA (Doctorate in International Nutrition) and (Masters in Food Science and Technology); Monmouth College, Illinois, USA (Bachelors Degree in Biology)
Profession: Full time politician
Constituency: Kota Damansara
Contact details: nasirk.damansara@gmail.com
Service centre: 47, 3rd Floor , Jalan Dinar G U3/G, Section U3, Subang Perdana, 40150 Shah Alam , Selangor. Opens daily from 9am-6pm. Dr Nasir meets the people every Wednesday from 12noon to 6pm.
Tel No: 03-784 61646

Dubbed a champion of the squatters, Kota Damansara assemblyman Dr Mohd Nasir Hashim is not your average politician. He happens to be an acupuncturist, too.

The white-haired social activist and former academician is sort of a maverick in the local political scene, and the Party Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) chairman's strong beliefs and principles had often landed him in hot water.

No frills: Nasir believes in personal touch when dealing with people.

Nasir was once detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) for 15 months during the 1987 Operation Lalang.

Despite the "minor" hiccups, Nasir was back on his feet as soon as he was freed and went on to take up acupuncture. However, venturing into a field traditionally dominated by the Chinese didn't daunt him one bit.

"I was attracted to the holistic appeal of acupuncture. Later with good support from family and friends, I opened a clinic," said Nasir, adding that he would not have much time for it now thanks to his new role.

His leftist ideologies might not sit comfortably with some but Nasir said he's all about fighting for the people.

He is known never to have backed out of a confrontation with the authorities, particularly with issues involving squatters, former estate workers and other marginalised groups.

Admitting that he is one of the reluctant politicians, Nasir said his main aim is to empower the people.

"I represent the people of Kota Damansara and I intend to go to them to find out what their grievances are, and what they want done".

How much time to do you spend on the computer?

Maybe around two hours.

What kind of music do you listen to?

Those from my time, especially Boney M or Abba.

Are you into movies?

I am into action flicks.

What do you read?

I read a lot of spiritual and philosophical books. I am currently reading The Seals of Wisdom by Muhyiddin Ibn-al-Arabi.

Are you into English Premier League football?

I don't have the patience waiting for someone to score but I make it a point to watch whenever Manchester United or Liverpool plays.

Your favourite sports?

Boxing and I was a boxing champion during my school days. I used to play badminton and tennis, too. But nowadays a good walk is sufficient for me.

Coffee or tea?

I am a Nescafe O person. Sometimes I have two to three cups a day and I can't seem to give up.

Got a nickname?

My grandchildren and some relatives call me To'Ki. When I was lecturing in UKM, my students used to call me 'boss' and I will call them 'gang' in return. Nowadays, everyone just calls me Nasir.

What is the gadget you can't do without?

My phone. It's funny but I am very attached to it since I save interesting quotes, notes and appointments in it.

What's your favourite food?

Sambal Tumis Udang. I prepare it myself but beware because the ingredients vary all the time. I also like to "christen" my dishes with fancy names.

You have a weakness for?

I adore children and I believe the feeling is mutual. Perhaps my resemblance to Colonel Sanders (KFC) has got something to do with it.

Do you have pets?

Fish. I have about 15 small fish. I enjoy watching them swim. It's a passion I inherited from my late father.

What car do you drive and how long have you had it?

Viva and I have had it for about a year. I am not into big and expensive cars.

Name an idol (dead or alive) you look up to and why?

Karl Marx for his ideas on socialism that revolutionised the world and birthed a generation of thinkers.

Book Launch

2008-04-22T08:11:00.002+08:00

NEW BOOK – Hishamuddin Rais

"KEGANASAN, PENIPUAN & INTERNET"

-Hegemoni media daulah pecah

On sale at major book shops this week:

1) MPH

2) Kinokuniya

3) Borders

4) Time

5) Coop Book Store

6) Popular BOOK Store

7) RiceCooker Annex Central Market

Launch/Sale at Bau Bau Cafe Annexe Central Market

On 1 May 2008

8.30 pm – Book launch

8.45 pm - Reception

9.00 pm – Bands

All welcome

Tq - isham rais

Nepalese has spoken...

2008-04-21T11:25:00.003+08:00

Waiting for a change in Nepal

Perodua Kelisa is everywhere in Nepal

The Constituent Assembly Election last 10th April 2008 gaves a new hope for Nepal. Communist Party of Nepal- Maoist (CPN-M) is leading for both FPTP and PR System. Nepal soon will be republic.

Condolence to Sheih and his family

2008-03-30T23:34:00.003+08:00

Yesterday i received a call from Monsterball. He told me that Sheih's mom passed away. I'm shocked. This must be a hard time for my bro. I heard that he stuck at one island waiting for the next ferry to the mainland.

Today, me and Ying went to the funeral. A bit late. Saw Rocky, Zorro and Tony.

Met Sheih. Gave him a hug. Al-Fathihah for his "Supermom" that he loves a lot.

Thanks to Monsterball for directing the way to funeral.

Lets read Al-Fathihah and pray for Sheih's "Supermom". May god bless her always.

Dr. Nasir – We would not compromise on Urban Settlers rights

2008-03-27T19:13:00.002+08:00

While Khalid Ibrahim want to proceed with the "Setinggan Sifar" policy of Khir Toyo, Dr . Nasir, the assemblyman of Kota Damansara and the President of came with his stand:
Dr. Nasir – We would not compromise on Urban Settlers rights

Dr. Nasir Hashim, PSM National Chairperson and State Assemblyman for Kota Damansara declared that PSM would continue and always be in the side of downtrodden, the workers and the lower income group in any issues which confronts the people.

He said, while, he support “squatter free” but it should not be done in the expense of the poor. The State must recognize that most urban settlers (Squatters) developed and created value for the land before it was encroached by the developer. Therefore it is only fair that these settlers be compensated and given alternative land or houses either by the developer or by the state. Most of the time the developer conspirers with the state government and the local government to forcefully and brutally evict the people who have been in the land for years. It is important to look at housing and shelter as a fundamental human rights rather than narrowly looking at the laws which only recognizes those with titles.

We call for all the notices against Urban Settlers by the previous State Government be revoked and amicable solution with consultation with the settlers communities and activists working in the field be carried out. One immediate task for the State Government is to give directive to the local authority not to invoke the Emergency regulation on clearance of squatters 1969 which has been the biggest culprit in forcefully evicting the settlers.

I would raise this issues with the new State Government. We would continue to champion the rights of the Urban settlers. There would no compromise on this.

Taiwanese Decides....

2008-03-21T17:03:00.004+08:00

Tommorow will be the important date for Taiwanese. They will decide whether the candidate from Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) or Kuomintang (KMT) to lead Taiwan.

They will decide to join United Nation (UN) (DPP proposals is Taiwan to join UN as a nation) or to rejoin it (KMT proposals is to rejoin UN as Republic of China (ROC)).

Click here to see my report in Malay.

Chinese Nepal border close down: Support the Tibetans!!!

2008-03-18T22:01:00.001+08:00

Dear friends,

Tibetans have exploded onto the streets in frustration--call on China to respect human rights and enter dialogue with the Dalai Lama now:

Sign the Petition!

After decades of repression under Chinese rule, the Tibetan people's frustrations have burst onto the streets in protests and riots. With the spotlight of the upcoming Olympic Games now on China, Tibetans are crying out to the world for change.

After decades of repression under Chinese rule, the Tibetan people's frustrations have burst onto the streets in protests and riots. With the spotlight of the upcoming Olympic Games now on China, Tibetans are crying out to the world for change.

The Chinese government has said that the protesters who have not yet surrendered "will be punished". Its leaders are right now considering a crucial choice between escalating brutality or dialogue that could determine the future of Tibet, and China.

We can affect this historic choice--China does care about its international reputation. China's President Hu Jintao needs to hear that the 'Made in China' brand and the upcoming Olympics in Beijing can succeed only if he makes the right choice. But it will take an avalanche of global people power to get his attention--and we need it in the next 48 hours.

The Tibetan Nobel peace prize winner and spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama has called for restraint and dialogue: he needs the world's people to support him. Click below now to sign the petition--and tell absolutely everyone you can right away--our goal is 1 million voices united for Tibet:

http://www.avaaz.org/en/tibet_end_the_violence/6.php

China's economy is totally dependent on "Made in China" exports that we all buy, and the government is keen to make the Olympics in Beijing this summer a celebration of a new China, respected as a leading world power. China is also a very diverse country with a brutal past and has reason to be concerned about its stability -- some of Tibet's rioters killed innocent people. But President Hu must recognize that the greatest danger to Chinese stability and development comes from hardliners who advocate escalating repression, not from Tibetans who seek dialogue and reform.

We will deliver our petition directly to Chinese officials in London, New York, and Beijing, but it must be a massive number before we deliver the petition. Please forward this email to your address book with a note explaining to your friends why this is important, or use our tell-a-friend tool to email your address book--it will come up after you sign the petition.

The Tibetan people have suffered quietly for decades. It is finally their moment to speak--we must help them be heard.

With hope and respect,

Ricken, Iain, Graziela, Paul, Galit, Pascal, Milena, Ben and the whole Avaaz team

PS - It has been suggested that the Chinese government may block the Avaaz website as a result of this email, and thousands of Avaaz members in China will no longer be able to participate in our community. A poll of Avaaz members over the weekend showed that over 80% of us believed it was still important to act on Tibet despite this terrible potential loss to our community, if we thought we could make a difference. If we are blocked, Avaaz will help maintain the campaign for internet freedom for all Chinese people, so that our members in China can one day rejoin our community.

Here are some links with more information on the Tibetan protests and the Chinese response:

BBC News: UN Calls for Restraint in Tibet

Human Rights Watch: China Restrain from Violently Attacking Protesters

Associated Press: Tibet Unrest Sparks Global Reaction

New York Times: China Takes Steps to Thwart Reporting on Tibet Protests
--------------------------------------------

ABOUT AVAAZ
Avaaz.org is an independent, not-for-profit global campaigning organization that works to ensure that the views and values of the world's people inform global decision-making. (Avaaz means "voice" in many languages.) Avaaz receives no money from governments or corporations, and is staffed by a global team based in London, Rio de Janeiro, New York, Paris, Washington DC, and Geneva.

To contact Avaaz, please do not reply to this email. Instead, write to info@avaaz.org. You can also send postal mail to our New York office: 260 Fifth Avenue, 9th floor, New York, NY 10001 U.S.A.

If you have technical problems, please go to http://www.avaaz.org .

Taiwan Presidential Election

2008-03-16T23:17:00.004+08:00

DPP's supporter gathered near the famous Taipei 101

Big balloon of the KMT candidate

Just arrived Taipei last night. I'm here to observe the Taiwanese Presidential Election. It's gonna be a tough fight between the candidate from Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and Kuomintang (KMT).

Will write more soon....

Parti Keadilan Rakyat stand on NEP

2008-03-15T23:49:00.003+08:00

While Umno is capitalizing the NEP issue in Penang to attack Lim Guan Eng, the new Chief Minister of Penang, Dr. Syed Husin Ali, the Deputy President of Parti Keadilan Rakyat came with his party strong stand on NEP. Read the press statement below and the news from Malaysiakini here:

KeADILan HAS CLEAR AND FIRM STAND ON NEP

Parti Keadilan Rakyat (People's Justice Party) has a clear and firm stand on the New Economic Policy (NEP). As explained by the Ketua Umum of the Party, Anwar Ibrahim in his 20-page article as well as through his many public pronouncements and ceramah, and further reaffirmed in several Party documents, including the Election Manifesto, we intend to replace the NEP with the Malaysian Economic Agenda.

The NEP, after nearly 40 years is already anachronistic. It has been abused by a handful leaders and cronies in Umno-Bn to rob the country of its wealth to enrich themselves, in the name of the Malays as a whole. It has led to discriminatory practices that are against the spirit of justice and fairness for all Malaysians, particularly the poor, marginalised and disadvantaged groups of all races.

The Malaysian Economic Agenda aspires to: (a) institute and implement fair, just and equitable redistribution of the wealth in the country; (b) fight against and finally abolish the evil practices of corruption, cronyism and nepotism and ensure the award of contracts and projects are done in open and transparent manner; (c) continue the policy of positive discrimination in favour of poor dan deprived Bumiputera while at the same time giving equal opportunities to poor and deprived non-Bumpiputera on the basis of need and not racial greed; (d) utilise the wealthy resources of the country to provide better social facilities – especially education, health and housing – for the poor, irrespective of ethnic backgrounds; and (e) generate pro-people development and strengthen the competitive capacity of Malaysia so that she can stand tall with all developed countries, starting with those in Asia.

Those leaders of Umno-Bn and the media they own that accuse Parti Keadilan Rakyat as having no stand on the NEP and on other ways of improving the lot of the poor, marginalized and disadvantaged Malays are deliberately indulging in lies to mislead the public. We wish to emphasise that a policy of positive discrimination in favour of all Malaysians who are poor, marginalized and disadvantaged will benefit the Malay rakyat more, because they form the big majority of this category of people.

Dr. Syed Husin Ali
Deputy President, KeADILan
March 15, 2008

--- Kenyataan Media ---
15 Mac 2008

PENDIRIAN KeADILan TERHADAP DEB JELAS DAN TEGAS

Parti Keadilan Rakyat (KeADILan) mempunyai pendirian yang jelas dan tegas terhadap Dasar Ekonomi Baru (DEB). Seperti yang dijelaskan oleh Ketua Umum keADILan, Anwar Ibrahim dalam sebuah artikel 20 halaman dan diterangkannya melalui beberapa kenyataan serta ceramah umum, dan ditegaskan dalam beberapa dokumen Parti, termasuk Manifesto Pilihanraya, kami berhasrat untuk menggantikan DEB dengan Agenda Ekonomi Malaysia.

Selepas dilaksanakan hampir 40 tahun, DEB ternyata sudah ketinggalan zaman. Ia disalahgunakan oleh segelintir pemimpin Umno-Bn serta kroni-kroni mereka untuk merompak kekayaan negara bagi mengkayakan diri sendiri atas nama seluruh rakyat Melayu. Ia telah mengakibatkan amalan diskriminasi kaum, bertentangan dengan semangat memberi keadilan dan kesaksamaan kepada semua rakyat Malaysia, terutama sekali mereka dari golongan miskin, terpinggir dan terbiar dari semua kaum.

Agenda Ekonomi Malaysia berhasrat untuk: (a) memperkenal dan melaksanakan dasar pembahagian kekayaan negara yang adil, seimbang serta saksama; (b) memerangi dan akhirnya membenteras amalan jijik korupsi, kronisme serta nepotisme dan memastikan pemberian kontrak serta projek dilakukan secara terbuka dan telus; (c) meneruskan dasar memberi pertolongan kepada golongan Bumiputera yang miskin serta terbiar tetapi pada masa yang sama memberi peluang yang sejajar kepada golongan bukan Bumiputra yang miskin, terpinggir serta terbiar, atas asas keperluan dan bukan kemakan kaum; (d) menggunakan sumber kekayaan negara untuk menyediakan kemudahan sosial yang lebih baik – terutama pendidikan, kesihatan dan perumahan – untuk golongan miskin dan susah tanpa mengira latarbelakang kaum; dan (e) menjana pembangunan yang menguntungkan rakya serta membina kapasiti bersaing supaya Malaysia dapat berdiri sama tinggi dengan semua negara maju, bermula dengan yang di Asia.

Pemimpin-pemimpin Umno-Bn dan media mereka kuasai yang menuduh kononnya Parti Keadilan Rakyat tidak mempunyai pendirian terhadap DEB dan cara-cara untuk mempertingkat taraf hidup orang Melayu yang miskin, terpinggir dan tercicir sebenarnya berdusta dan segaja cuba hendak menipu dan menyelewengkan perhatian rakyat. Kami menegaskan dasar memberi keutamaan untuk kebajikan golongan miskin, terpinggir akan lebih banyak memberikan keuntungan kepada rakyat Melayu, kerana merekalah yang merupakan majoriti paling ramai di dalam categori ini.

Dr Syed Husin Ali
Timbalan Presiden, keADILan
15hb Mac 2008

What next in Perak?

2008-03-13T22:17:00.002+08:00

The move by Kit Siang is smart because of he didn't want MCA to capitalize the issue of Mohamad Nizar Jamaluddin from PAS to be Perak new MB.

After all, even if DAP Adun's refuse to attend the ceremony, Mohamad Nizar will still become the Perak MB and DAP Adun's will be some of the exco's.

After received the critics from public and DAP's grassroot, Kit Siang appologize to Perak Sultan and guarantee that DAP will support the new MB.

Then came another protest from PKR. Click here.

Now the Perak MB's swearing-in put off until PAS-DAP-PKR sign an agreement to form a coalition government and send it to Perak Sultan.

Hope that PAS-DAP-PKR will solve this problem soon. The people in Perak worry about the current development. Someone from BN might capitalized this issue.

Whatever the problem is, solve it. Think about the people!

Abdullah never learn.....

2008-03-10T23:13:00.002+08:00

BN failed to maintain 2/3 majority in the parliament for the first time after 1969 and lost Selangor, Perak, Kedah and Penang. Besides that, Kelantan maintained to be govern by PAS.

Malaysian decides....

Blames goes to Son In Law, who won in Rembau because of postal votes. But Abdullah's never learn. He is too stubborn and still want to protect the one who has became the liability of Umno. Read the news from Bernama below:

PM Reiterates Khairy Has No Influence On Him

KUALA LUMPUR, March 10 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today reiterated strongly that Khairy Jamaluddin had never been an influence in whatever he has done or decision he has made.

"Khairy is not an influence in whatever I do. He's the Umno Youth vice-head, and he has his idea about anything.

"There may be some coincidence that he speaks about the same policy and not because the policy is what he has promoted, it's a policy of the government," the Prime Minister told newsmen at the Umno Headquarters, here.

He added that as an Umno member, it was a duty for Khairy to know policies of the government and talk about it.

"It doesn't mean that when we talk about the policy, it means that it's the policy he suggested," he said when commenting on a statement made by his predecessor, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad yesterday alleging that Khairy was responsible for the major defeat suffered by Barisan Nasional (BN) in the just-concluded general election.

The Umno president said what happened to Khairy was due to the misperception based on the fact that the latter was the son-in-law of the Prime Minister.

"He's not the one who says `Babah (daddy), please accept this and I (Abdullah) accept it, and this one you (Abdullah) must do. He doesn't do that.

"This is a perception, I think it's a wrong perception and I pity Khairy for that kind of perception that happened on his goal, and his relationship with me as son-in-law and father-in-law," he said. The Prime Minister said Khairy was a person who spoke openly and had actively voiced out his opinion as many had heard during the Umno general assembly. "Anybody is free to give opinions, anybody is free to give views, and Khairy, like anybody else, speaks openly and statements do come out in the Press," said Abdullah.

-- BERNAMA

BERSIH urges concerned Malaysians to support the establishment of a Royal Commission on Electoral Reform

2008-03-07T12:19:00.000+08:00

The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (BERSIH) calls on all Malaysians who are angry with the Election Commission's (EC) failure to ensure the integrity of elections in Malaysia to register their concerns through the ballot box on polling day as well as support a signature campaign for a Royal Commission on Electoral Reform (RCER).

BERSIH strongly criticizes the EC Chairman Tan Sri Abdul Rashid Abdul Rahman for suggesting that Malaysians who wants clean and fair elections were responsible for his house being splashed with red paint early yesterday.

BERSIH condemns all acts of violence or intimidation by any party, and stresses that such baseless accusations are being used by Tan Sri Rashid to divert attention from the real issues – the numerous blunders and broken promises made by the EC to the Malaysian people.

BERSIH warns the public to be wary of media smear/spin and fear-mongering campaigns, such as the offensive launched by the mainstream media on opposition parties in 1990 and 1999.

BERSIH calls upon all concerned Malaysians to support and spread the word for a Royal Commission on Electoral Reform (RCER) after the General Election. The online version is available at http://www.petitiononline.com/RCER2008/petition.html .

BERSIH also urges Malaysians to record and document any instances of election offences -- such as phantom voting, multiple voting, ballot stuffing, bribery, intimidation, treating -- and file such complaints so that BERSIH may draw upon this bank of information in its mission to establish the RCER.

As the EC's U-turn on indelible ink has completely obliterated whatever scrap of public confidence it still had prior to this week, the establishment of the RCER is now imperative for post-election Malaysia.

For enquiries, please contact the BERSIH secretariat at 019-2232002 or 012-2192010.

Malaysia: Citizens Denied a Fair Vote

2008-03-05T15:55:00.002+08:00

Bias in Electoral Process Favors Ruling Coalition in March 8 Poll

(New York, March 5, 2008) – Government restraints on expression, assembly and access to state media will deny Malaysians a fair vote in the March 8 general elections, Human Rights Watch said today.

The authorities’ manipulation of the electoral process appears aimed to ensure that the ruling coalition maintains its two-thirds parliamentary majority.

“Once again, elections in Malaysia are grossly unfair to the opposition,” said Elaine Pearson, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch. “Malaysia’s ruling coalition is too comfortable with the status quo to allow reforms that would level the playing field.”

On March 8, Malaysians will vote for the national parliament. Since 1969, the ruling Barisan Nasional, a coalition consisting of 14 parties, has held a two-thirds majority in parliament, which enables it to amend the constitution at will. Opposition parties currently hold 9.6 percent of the seats in parliament.

Freedom of expression, association and assembly

Malaysian law and practice allow free campaigning for the ruling coalition while placing severe restraints on the opposition. For instance, Prime Minister Abdullah Ahman Badawi on March 1 was able to hold a rally of 20,000 supporters. But police have repeatedly blocked attempts by opposition parties to hold election rallies by refusing to issue the permits required for any gathering of four or more people.

In November 2007, the Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih), a loose alliance of almost 70 civil society organizations and several political parties, organized an orderly march and rally by some 40,000 Malaysians. In response, police used excessive force, including tear gas and chemical-laced water on peaceful protesters (http://hrw.org/english/docs/2007/11/15/malays17345.htm).

The government has routinely used the specter of ethnic violence to deter public demonstrations and silence government critics. On February 16, three days after Abdullah dissolved parliament, police officers used tear gas and water cannons to disperse a peaceful crowd of some 200 Malaysian Indians from the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf). Hindraf has not been permitted to register as a political party, and has repeatedly been denied permits when they sought, such as on this occasion, to hold a peaceful demonstration.

“When opposition leaders and civil society groups critical of the government try to organize rallies, they are blocked at every turn,” said Pearson. “Yet the usual excuses about unruly protesters and blocked traffic are never mentioned when the ruling coalition wants to get its supporters out on the streets. ”

The government has long threatened opposition politicians with provisions of the broadly worded Sedition Act. In addition, since the draconian Printing Presses and Publications Act places the burden of proof on defendants in defamation cases, opposition parties are self-censoring for fear of being hit hard by libel suits if they critique the establishment.

Curbs on the media

Government interference in media reporting is not new to Malaysia, but has become even more contentious during election campaigning. An election observer in Malaysia told Human Rights Watch that monitoring of state television and radio had turned up no opposition candidate presence. The state media are the two most important avenues for candidates to communicate their messages to voters, particularly those in rural areas.

In late January, Bernama, the Malaysian National News Agency reported that Deputy Information Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamid conceded the lack of fairness in the state media. He said that the ministry would need to study “whether allowing opposition leaders to campaign through Radio Television Malaysia in the next general election will benefit the people.”

Freedom of the media is further hampered since all private free-to-air television channels are owned by the United Malays National Organization (UMNO), a founding member of the ruling coalition and Malaysia’s largest political party.

Because Malaysian law requires all publications to obtain permits to operate on a yearly basis, the state can easily shut down those that are critical of the government. The minister of internal security, who is currently also the prime minister, has discretion to grant, revoke or suspend any publication prejudicial to public order, morality or security, or that is likely to alarm public opinion. Newspapers such as the Tamil language daily, Makkai Osai, are self-censoring to avoid being shut down.

On February 15, the online Malaysiakini site reported that the Chinese-language Oriental Daily editor issued an election-related “guideline” to staff. The guideline suggested the newspaper should avoid placing opposition news prominently, mentioning the opposition’s campaign to block the Barisan Nasional’s goal of a two-thirds majority, or discussing any disputed issues in Chinese communities. The Oriental Daily has had difficulty renewing its license in recent years.

“The Malaysian government has ensured that state radio and TV only cover the ruling coalition and that newspapers report on the opposition at their own risk,” said Pearson.

Irregularities in electoral roll registration and certification of election results

Irregularities in the voter rolls and other elements of the electoral process raise concerns that the government will seek to manipulate votes in closely fought districts. While some individual problems may be simple error, they highlight the need for effective and impartial monitoring by the Election Commission and national election monitors.

Bersih, the coalition for clean and fair elections, has documented severe irregularities in the voter rolls. It found that in several areas a large number of voters were suddenly transferred en masse from one district to another. According to Bersih, some voters discovered that their electoral registration was changed without their knowledge to locales outside their home districts.

In one case, a voter found that her registration had been changed back to a residence she had not occupied for 14 years. Others have found that despite registering a change of address some time ago, they have not been reassigned to polling stations reflective of their new addresses. Still others, who had never registered, found that their names mysteriously appeared on the electoral roll. One voter in Penang went to register, only to find that she allegedly had done so when she was 17 months old. Some voters who used the mail to register to vote discovered registration procedures had not been completed in time for them to be eligible to vote in the upcoming election.

Other anomalies reported by Bersih involve multiple registrations, in one case 40 individuals are registered at a single address. In other cases, family members living together are listed at different addresses. Other registrations use nonexistent addresses. Almost 9,000 voters who were born more than 100 years ago (two were reported to be 128 years old) are still enrolled to vote, raising suspicions about phantom voting. No matter what the offense, the voter roll, once gazetted, cannot be challenged in court.

Bersih is also concerned with postal voting, limited to police and army personnel, and overseas students. More than 221,000 voters use postal votes, but the tallied votes are not necessarily counted among those from voters’ home districts. Although the Army Div 2 Base in Georgetown, Penang, houses only a security guard, some 500 voters are registered to that address. A lack of transparency raises questions about how votes are assigned, including concerns that they may be arbitrarily allocated to benefit districts where the vote is close.

“Voters in Malaysia deserve a chance for every vote to count and count equally,” said Pearson. “Given the vast array of anomalies in the electoral rolls, this looks increasingly unlikely.”

Human Rights Watch urged the Malaysian government to protect the constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of expression and assembly for all parties. The government should not use laws to unfairly penalize opposition politicians, and it should ensure that all political parties have equal access to state media. Human Rights Watch called on national election monitors to thoroughly investigate any claims of electoral fraud and irregularities, and to provide for greater transparency by posting vote tallies outside polling stations before votes are transferred to the Election Commission.

For more of Human Rights Watch’s work on Malaysia, please visit:

http://hrw.org/doc?t=asia&c=malays

For more information, please contact:

In New York, Mickey Spiegel: +1-212-216-1229; or +1-917-968-9937 (mobile)

In New York, Elaine Pearson: +1-212-216-1213; or +1-646-291-7169 (mobile)

In Brussels, Reed Brody: +32-498-625786 (mobile)

In Washington, DC, Sam Zarifi: +1-202-612-4354; or +1-646-662-7750 (mobile)

What can Khairy say about this?

Do you still believe?

2008-03-05T02:44:00.001+08:00

It's not wrong if we have hope with the election even though the same ruling party ruled Malaysia since independence day in 1957. After all, election is about hope. Hope for change, hope for victory, hope for bla, bla, bla....

Then came the EC announcement that killed the hope for free and fair election....
See the news from Malaysiakini here. So what did you think? Still believe?

Debate between Chegubard and Son In Law

2008-03-02T11:38:00.002+08:00

Parti Mahasiswa Negara (PMN) will organized a debate between Badrul Hisham Shaharin a.k.a Chegubard and Khairy Jamaluddin a.k.a Son In Law on 5th March 2008 at Padang Majlis Daerah Rembau, 8.00 pm.

The debate will focus on local and national issues.
All are invited to come. For more information, please call Azizi at +6012-3696-474.

The Last Cabinet Meeting

2008-02-29T19:01:00.002+08:00

Pak Lah: This is the last meeting we are going to have before I make my decision on who our candidates are. First of all, I would like to thank Keng Yaik and Affendi for voluntarily backing out. You are truly gentlemen. Anyone else wants to back out? Think of the party, not of yourself.

Najib: I think Samy should back out la.

Samy: Apa pasai? Why you think I should back out? Why not you?

Najib: You are a liability to MIC and BN la Samy, accept it la.

Samy: What do you mean liability? Give me proof?

Hisham: Ayo Samy, our intelligence report say, we will lose almost 100% of Indian votes if you still lead MIC. If you get lost, maybe we can bring it down to 60%.

Samy: Pakla, don't listen to this two young punks la. Let me read this report just sent to me. After extensive intelligence gathering, we find that 20% of the Indians hated Samy Velu. Ha, only 20% la, where got 100%?

Nazri: Hey Samy I also got the same report la. Why don't you continue?

Samy: Okay, I'll continue, 40% cannot stand to see his face and 35% will kill him if they were to meet him. 5% believe that he is a good leader. Ha, I still got 5% what?

Pak Lah: Come on la Samy, you've been around for a long time already; you have made your money. You are even richer than me, so back out la. Think of the party la Samy.

Samy: Yes, I am richer than you but Najib, 2 deals only is already richer than me, why not ask him also to go? His submarine and Sukhoi and Altantunya also make him a liability what.

Pak Lah: I know that one, but he is from UMNO, that is the difference. The Malays will accept corrupt Malay leaders, as long as they potong, its okay.

Samy: Oh, kalu chunik potong kalu, berapa banyak rasuah pun takpa ka? Mana adil ini macam Pakla?

Najib: That is the way it is in this country Samy. We all from UMNO got immunity, you people, tadak potong punya, don't.

Samy: No, saya akan tetap bertanding.

Kayveas: Adei Samy, listen to them da, what they say is true la. Don't talk about justice all lah, as if you are concerned about justice. This is not the place to be talking about justice la old man. We want to win. If that means you will be dropped then so be it.

Samy: Dei Kayveas, you just shut up la. You budak lagi la, you apa tau? What you want to be champions of the Indians ka? If I am forced to back out, I make sure you go down with me. Hey, Mahathir also cannot force me out la.

Kayveas: Tengok Pakla, tadak guna punya Hindu. Think of himself only. Just shoot him la Pakla, don't give chance. Najib, itu C4 lagi ada ka? Mari kita sekarang taroh itu C4 sama dia. Cilaka punya orang.

Keng Yaik: Samy ah, enough la. So long already you in the cabinet. You want to stay until you die ka? What you think they will bury you in the Makam Pahlawan ka? Every time people curse you la. Now even your own race cannot stand you, give up la Samy. Come join me la. We all retire. After all, we are not sure if we are going to win this time around. BN also not sure going to win or not.

Pak Lah: What are you talking about Kheng Yaik? Why you say like that? Lu jaga lu punya mulut ah Apek.

Keng Yaik:No la Pak Lah, If everyone wants to deny us 2/3 majority, then all of them would not vote us la. We may lose more than just 1/3 la. Haiya, that one also cannot see ah?

Pak Lah: Maybe the Chinese or Indians la Keng Yaik, not the Malays la. The Malays love UMNO.

Keng Yaik: Are you sure ah Pak Lah? Now even the Chinese and Indians are willing to vote PAS if it is the only opposition available to them, don't you think that there would be Malays willing to vote DAP? Don't be foolish la Pak Lah. Until now still cannot get Kelantan despite all the dirty tricks. Who are majority voters in Kelantan? Malays la, some more what.

Pak Lah: Betoi ka dia kata tu Najib?

Najib: Jangan dengar cakap orang tua penyembur tu la Pak lah. Orang Melayu takkan lupa UMNO punya. Orang Melayu rela mati untuk UMNO

Nazri: Ntah la, ada lojik jugak cakap Keng Yaik tu. Memang la orang Melayu rela mati untuk UMNO tapi rela ka dia mati untuk kita?

Pak Lah: Apa yang orang Melayu tak puaih hati lagi dengan kita? Kita bagi macam-macam kat depa, apa lagi dia mau?

Kah Ting: Lu mau tau ka? Dia olang tengok sumua itu UMNO punya olang besar manyak kaya. Bikin lumah banyak besar. Keleta 4, 5, sumua mahal-mahal punya. Dulu punya Melayu punya UMNO punya olang tak buat itu macam. Kalau dia kaya pun, dia tak tunjuk sama olang. Sekalang punya UMNO punya olang manyak sombong oh. Dia kaya, dia selalu tunjuk. Dia tak takot punya. Itu olang Melayu biasa tak suka la ini macam punya sombong punya olang.

Nazri: Apa, salah ka dia beli rumah besar dan kereta besar? Apa orang Cina saja ka buleh beli rumah besar. Pak Lah, letak Kah Ting kat Tanjong tengok. Jom kita tengok orang Cina suka kat dia ka tak?

Keng Yaik: Tak salah, tapi baru 2, 3 hari jadi menteri sudah kaya ka? Dia punya gaji berapa? Dulu jaga gate keretapi sekarang boleh bikin Istana, orang tak heran ka la Pak Lah? Your weakness ah, is that you think the Malays are stupid. They are not la Pak Lah. Many have opened their eyes la. Many are not ignorant anymore.

Pak Lah: Alah, kalau kalah pun, kalah sikit saja.

Keng Yaik: Sorry ha Pak Lah if I say something. You have been sleeping too much, you have lost touch with reality.

Pak Lah: I think ah Keng Yaik, you don't resign la. This year you stand in Permatang Pauh, mau ka?

Samy: Pak Lah, saya macam mana?

Pak Lah: Meeting adjourn la, semua balik dulu. Saya mengantok ni. Nanti lain kali la.

Received this from Big Easy.

Mongolian NGO to observe Malaysian Election

2008-02-29T16:56:00.002+08:00

I received an email a few minutes ago from the Mongolian Women's NGO's Coalition. They really want to observe the Malaysian 12th General Election. Read the letter below:

Dear Friends,

We are five members of a Mongolian NGO delegation representing 11 NGO's who would like to observe the election process in Malaysia.

We have been trying to get the Malaysian’s visa from Ulan Bator. So far the news is not encouraging. We were advice to try it from Bangkok. We are now in Bangkok waiting for our visa to be process.

Some Thai’s NGO advised us to communicate with some friends in Malaysia who could facilitate our visit.

We are hoping to arrive in Malaysia as soon as possible. Is there any possibility of the any Malaysian NGO that is working with international observers? Could you please connect them with us?

We are also trying to communicate with ANFREL in Bangkok. But most of them are now in Nepal.

Our delegation would be happy to hear from you.

Thanking you,

G.Tsetsegma
Mongolian Women’s NGO’s Coalition

Samy Vellu the desperado....

2008-02-28T17:13:00.004+08:00

Read the news from Malaysiakini below:

If you don't vote MIC, 'prepare to pay price'

Feb 28, 08 4:15pm

The Barisan Nasional ruling coalition today warned the disenchanted minority Indian community that they would "pay the price" if they vote for the opposition in March 8 elections.
MIC, part of the BN coalition, took out full-page newspaper ads which said Indians' prospects would "disintegrate" if they deserted the government.
The message is aimed at winning back the support of the community, which accuses the government dominated by Muslim Malays of insensitivity and discrimination.
"If you don't vote for MIC, then be prepared to pay the price," it said in bold red letters, urging Indians not to cast a protest vote for PAS, which rules impoverished Kelantan.
"Vote for PAS and see where Kelantan is today. If you think that you are not progressing under MIC, then you can now imagine getting disintegrated under PAS," it said.
Ethnic Indians have become a political force for the first time in the March elections, after an anti-discrimination rally last year that led to the detention without trial of five activists from rights group Hindraf.

Samy's act of desperation
Hindraf coordinator R Thanenthiran said the ads were a sign of desperation from MIC chief S Samy Vellu, who has been heckled and jeered for supporting the government and condemning the protesters.
"Samy Vellu is definitely threatening Indians," he said. "This shows that he has lost all of his avenues to woo votes and is flexing his iron muscles to win."
"But the Indians are educated. They are not cowards. They will be not be intimidated by the threats. Indians want their rights that has been denied for 50 years," he added.
Ethnic Indians complain that they are disadvantaged by policies aimed at boosting majority Muslim Malays, and the community has also been angered by the destruction of hundreds of Hindu temples in recent years.
Pollsters say they expect the multi-racial coalition, which has ruled for half a century, to be victorious on March 8, but with a smaller majority as it loses the support of ethnic Indian and Chinese voters.

Human Rights Demands for the Coming General Elections 2008

2008-02-28T17:04:00.000+08:00

Our forebears have fought for Merdeka in 1957 so that all men and women, regardless of race and religion, can live a life with dignity, free from fear and free from want in a new country where freedom, justice and peace prevail.

Regrettably, after 50 years of independence under the rule of the Alliance and the National Front (Barisan Nasional) coalitions, human rights in Malaysia have deteriorated dramatically. Indeed, it makes a mockery of the Merdeka that we achieved when the vibrant freedom of the press, expression, assembly and association exercised by our forebears against the British during colonial times would be lost under the rule of our own people after independence.

It is high time for the people to reclaim our rights, our freedoms and our country in the coming general election.

1. Reject Racialised Politics and Racism

The kind of politics perpetuated by Barisan Nasional has divided the citizens rather than united the country. Human rights violations, abuses of powers, mismanagement of public funds and corruption in the government thrive under the protective umbrella of racialised politics. Anyone challenging cronyism, corruption and nepotism of the powers-that-be would be persecuted for inciting racial tensions and posing a threat to national security. Malaysian citizens, living under the fear of the Internal Security Act and the bogeyman of the May 13 tragedy, are silenced and stripped of their rights.

We call on all voters to reject candidates and political parties that resort to racial and religious extremism. We demand for the enactment of a Race Relations Act and a permanent Race Relations Commission to outlaw racism and incitement of racial hatred.

2. Repeal All Emergency Laws and Laws that permit Detention without Trial

Despite the fact that Malaysians have lived in peace without war or conflict in the last three decades, the emergency laws and anti-subversion laws previously proclaimed by the government, which vest enormous emergency powers in the hands of the state and suspend civil and political rights of the people, remain in force to this date. These laws have been rampantly abused by the ruling parties.

We call for the four proclamations of emergency in 1964, 1966, 1969 and 1977 to be revoked officially by the coming parliament. We demand that all emergency and anti-subversion laws and measures, especially the Internal Security Act 1960 and the Emergency (Public Order and Prevention of Crime) Ordinance 1969 and the Dangerous Drugs (Special Preventive Measures) Act 1985 which provide for indefinite detention without trial, be repealed immediately. We demand that immediate release of all those detained under the emergency laws be charged in court or be released immediately.

3. Respect and Protect Freedom of Expression, Assembly and Association

Freedom of expression, assembly and association are fundamental rights for citizens to participate in policy decision making. However, these rights have been continuously curtailed with the justification of national security when in realty it is no more than suppressing the citizens from raising legitimate concerns such as corruption, abuses of powers and the failures of the government policies.

We call for the abolition of the Sedition Act and the enactment of a Whistle-Blower Protection legislation to protect freedom of expression. The right to freedom of assembly and association should be allowed to be exercised without hindrance while all authorities’ decisions should be subjected to judicial scrutiny. We call for the abolition of Section 27 of the Police Act that subject public assemblies to the approval of the police.

4. Form the Independent Police Complaints and Misconduct Commission

The rising crime rates in the country in recent years have indicated that the Royal Malaysian Police has failed in its duty. To make matters worse, the police force today has reduced itself to become a tool of coercion and violence for the powers-that-be to remain in power. The rights of the Malaysian citizens are trampled. A professional police force that is effective in fighting crimes, respects human rights while enforcing the laws, politically impartial in carrying out their duties and free from corruption can only be achieved with an independent oversight mechanism with adequate powers.

We demand for the implementation of the 125 recommendations made by the Royal Commission on police reform, especially the formation of the Independent Police Complaint and Misconduct Commission (IPCMC).

5. Stamp out Corruption

Corruption has been widespread in the government and unchallenged under the protection of the powerful ruling elites. Mega projects are awarded to individuals and companies who are politically well connected. In the process, project costs have multiplied to exorbitant levels and have led to huge unnecessary social costs at the expense of public monies. Tax payers are made to pay double for the corruption and the rising costs of living as a result of the former.

We demand that all ministers and public servants declare publicly their personal wealth before taking office. All ministers and public servants who live beyond their means should be investigated and prosecuted for corruption. We call on the Anti-Corruption Agency to be made independent from the Prime Minister’s office and to report to the Parliament solely.

6. Uphold the Independence of the Judiciary

The recent Lingam tape scandal has confirmed the widespread public perception that our judiciary is highly corrupt and partial to the powers-that-be, especially after the 1988 judicial crisis. It has failed to defend the rights of the people and deliver justice to the victims of the rich and the powerful.

We demand judicial independence to be restored immediately by rescinding the constitutional amendment of Article 121(1) that undermines the separation of powers in a functioning democracy and the formation of an independent judicial commission in appointing and promoting judges.

7. End the New Economic Policy

The New Economic Policy (NEP) has deviated from its original objectives and has become a tool for a small group of ruling elites of different ethnic communities to accumulate enormous wealth. The majority of the Malays has hardly benefited from the policy while the poor non-Malays are deprived of social assistance. The NEP is a divisive policy that perpetuates racial discrimination. It also compromises meritocracy and undermines our country’s competitiveness in the globalised world.

We demand that the NEP be abolished immediately and be replaced with an affirmative action policy that is based on individual needs and merits regardless of race or religion.

8. Reform the Electoral System

The Malaysian electoral system is deeply flawed and is not able to reflect the true popular will of the people. It has deviated from the ‘one person one vote’ principle with large disparities of the number of voters from one constituency to another. The electoral roll is rigged and postal votes are often deployed by ruling parties to rob victory in crucial areas. The voters are deprived of the right to information and the right to make informed decisions with the opposition having no access to mainstream media. The Election Commission is partial to the ruling parties.

We demand the reform of the electoral system by setting up a royal commission on electoral reforms with the aims to restore the ‘one person one vote’ principle, clean up the electoral roll, abolish postal votes and ensure equal access to the media by all parties. Local government election must be restored. Appointment of members of the Election Commission must be done in a transparent and accountable manner with public consultation.

9. Uphold Press Freedom

Press freedom in Malaysia has been severely curtailed by the restrictive laws such as the Printing Presses and Publication Act that requires annual license renewal of newspapers and magazines. The situation is made worse with the ownership of mainstream media and the abuse of state media such as RTM by the ruling parties. This seriously undermines the right to information and the right to make informed decision of the citizen to check the abuse of powers and corruption in the government, the parliament and the judiciary.

We demand for the repeal of the Printing Presses and Publication Act, the Official Secret Act, the legislation of a Freedom of Information Act, and the setting up of a parliamentary select committee to review all other legislations which relate to press freedom.

10. Respect Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

The economic growth in Malaysia has not been accompanied with just distribution of the wealth created. The gap between the rich and the poor is growing bigger and wider, especially in the Malay community. Many remain in poverty without adequate food, housing and access to basic and essential services such as water, electricity, healthcare and education, especially in the rural areas and the indigenous people’s communities.

We demand compliance of economic, social and cultural rights standards and a national minimum wage policy in order to ensure an adequate standard of living for all. Furthermore, religion, culture and the mother tongue languages of minorities should be respected and allowed to be practiced and developed freely. The building of Chinese and Tamil schools should be allowed according to needs and with fair allocation of public funds. Malaysia is a secular state under the Federal Constitution with Islam as the official religion, while other religions must be respected and allowed to be practiced freely.

11. Ensure Gender Equality

Women continue to be marginalised in Malaysia, especially in the decision-making process. This discrimination based on various justifications, ranging for religion to culture, must be ended. Women should be treated as equal to men.

We call on voters to reject all sexist candidates such as Mohd Said Yusof and Bung Mokhtar Radin, former parliamentarians from Jasin and Kinabatangan. We demand an equal representation of women in all fields and key decision-making positions and equal treatment of men and women before the law.

12. Protect the Environment

The developmental model pursued by Malaysia without taking into account social costs has led to massive pollution of rivers and oceans, destruction of forests, and poisoning of the soil and underground water. The protection of the national car industry has not only caused massive traffic jams in cities and an underdeveloped public transport system, but has also led to release of large amounts of green house gases, contributing to global warming.

We demand more stringent environmental protection legislations to protect rivers, oceans, forests, and clean air and water. Efficient, accessible and affordable public transport system should be priority in town planning to avoid over reliance on personal vehicles.

We urge all candidates and political parties to pledge their support towards these human rights demands.

We call on all voters to support only candidates and political parties that are committed to all the 12 human rights demands and reject those who refuse to uphold any of these 12 human rights demands.

Vote for change! Vote for a better Malaysia!

This statement of election human rights demands is endorsed by:

1. Alaigal
2. Aliran Kesedaran Negara
3. All Women's Action Society (AWAM)
4. Amnesty International (AI) Malaysia
5. Artis Pro Activ (APA)
6. Bar Council Human Rights Committee
7. Center for Orang Asli Concerns (COAC)
8. Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ)
9. Child Development Initiative
10. Civil Rights Committee of The Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (CRC-KLSCAH)
11. Community Development Centre (CDC)
12. Federasi Kaum Tamil Sedunia Malaysia
13. Food Not Bombs (KL)
14. Gabungan Peneroka Bandar – Perak
15. Gabungan Petani – Perak (GEPETAK)
16. Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC)
17. Institut Kajian Dasar (IKD)
18. International Community Christian Education and Human Right
19. Inter Varsity Council (IVC)
20. Jaringan Rakyat Tertindas (JERIT)
21. Kelab Bell Belia Tamil
22. Labor Resource Centre (LRC)
23. LLG Cultural Development Centre (LLG)
24. Malaysia Youth & Students Democratic Movement (DEMA)
25. Malaysian Indian Development and Unity Association
26. Malaysian Voters Union (MALVU)
27. National Institute for Electoral Integrity (NIEI)
28. Penang Heritage Trust　
29. Persatuan Alumni LiHua PBTUSM Kuala Lumpur dan Selangor
30. Persatuan Kebajikan Masyarakat dan Sosial India
31. Persatuan Kebangsaan Hak Asasi Manusia (HAKAM)
32. Persatuan Kemajuan Pendidikan Malaysia
33. Persatuan Konsumer Klang
34. Persatuan Pembaca Tamil Klang
35. Persatuan Sahabat Wanita, Selangor
36. Pesticide Action Network Asia and the Pacific (PAN AP)
37. Pusat Janadaya (Empower)
38. Pusat Khidmat Pekerja Tanjung (PKPT)
39. Pusat Komunikasi Masyarakat (KOMAS)
40. Research For Social Advancement (REFSA)
41. Save Our School (SOS) Damansara committee
42. Save Ourselves, Penang (SOS)
43. Semparuthi Iyakkam
44. Solidariti Mahasiswa Malaysia (SMM)
45. Suara Rakyat Malaysia (SUARAM)
46. Tenaganita
47. The Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall – Youth Section (KLSCAH-Youth)
48. The People's Parliament
49. Writer Alliance For Media Independence (WAMI)
50. Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO)
51. Women's Centre for Change Penang (WCC)

OVER 4,000 THRONG ANWAR'S SPEECH IN KOTA DAMANSARA

2008-02-27T18:32:00.000+08:00

Kota Damansara, 26th Feb,2008

The playground at Taman Subang Perdana Jln 2/10 today was packed by over 4000 people , gathered to listen to the speeches of the alternative front candidates .

Dr.Nasir Hashim , the socialist candidate from PSM hosted the event today . Comrade Nasir patiently explained that the change in leadership from Mahathir to Badawi has not solved the people 's problem . " A change in leadership without overthrowing the capitalist system , will lead to continuous exploitation by the ruling class . He further stressed that the PSM had a different manifesto because as socialist , we feel that only through people's power true changes can be made .

The others that joined today 's rally were Sdr.Sivarasa the Subang Parlimentary candidate and Elizabeth Wong the candidate for Bukit Lanjan . Anwar' arrival was greeted by the 'Urimi meelam ' drums performed by the Makkal Sakti youth .

Anwar called for undivided support from the people of Kota Damansara to vote for Dr.Nasir . He stressed that among the opposition ,we should not lobby and campaign for favorite candidates. He added that Dr.Nasir is an activist , has proven himself in many peoples struggles . Thus , he would be the best candidate for the people unlike the Barisan candidates who carry the interest of the capitalist .

Anwar who was supposed to speak for only ½ hour , motivated by the huge crowd, spoke for an hour . Many greeted Nasir and wished him success in on the polling day , 8^th Mac .

LETS DO REFORMATION!!!

2008-02-27T17:45:00.002+08:00

By: Syarifah Nor Haizum

i've been wondering if u ppl felt gud
enuf wif what u got today..as for me, i
think i shud receive more privileges
than wat i have today..

not being greedy,but dont u think dat d
government is taking advantage on us by
increasing the price of menchandises wif
reason to balance all of d other
expenditures..but wif present national
profits, we cud have lots of other
facilities built n also rejuvenating d
technology.compared our country to japan
for example,we r 40 years behind their
tech even we r living at the very same
hour..yet we r still trapped in 1 of d
unknown 3rd world countries..

the only way to improve ourselves is to
ask for more.dont juz be satisfied wif
our achievements today since we can live
a better life if we r lookin forward to
it (focus on poverty)

look at the complains appear everyday in
newspapers..the num of complain
increases each day..since it always has
been the same all times,why not we give
it a try to another party for a
reformation..

we have nuthin to lose now since we r
already losing..the choice is ours,
those phenomenon happening to our
country r pretty clear. dont just see em
wif ur eyes but also see em wif ur heart
n brain.

im not provoking u to vote against
BN(government) coz whoever wins, will be
d government..so be wise..select those u
think who can really lead us out to what
we call 'era of d renaissance'..after
all, it is only for a 4years period of
time..

Sent by Malcom.

National Battle Has Started....

2008-02-25T08:02:00.006+08:00

Son In Law Mom, came to support her son.

Nori Abdullah (blue "baju Kurung") the one who changed the life of Son In Law came to support his husband to climb the corridor of power.

While Badrul and his supporters march to the nomination center, two small airplane with Umno and BN flag mingle around Badrul's operating center proudly. The National Battle against the Dynasty has started.

Now is the time for you to join.....

"Che" needs help to fight the "Dynasty"

2008-02-22T23:25:00.003+08:00

Our fellow blogger, Badrul Hisham Shaharin a.k.a Chegubard needs a favor from us. As we know, he's not only fighting the Son In Law, he's fighting the whole government machinery provided by Father In Law, The Sleeping Prime Minister.

This is a National Battle against Abdullah Badawi political dynasty.
You know what will happen to Malaysia if Abdullah Dynasty rules the country.

You can contribute to help this brave young man. He needs volunteer and campaign funds. To be a volunteer, call Azizi ("Che's" campaign manager) at +6012-3696-474.

To donate for campaign funds, please bank in at:

Badrul Hisham Shaharin
19951001018 (Hong Leong Bank)

RM 1 from you might help to save the country. No matter which political party you are from, even though you are from UMNO, as long as you love this country, please be together in this National Battle to stop Abdullah and Son In Law Dynasty!!!

Confirmed: Chegubard Vs Son In Law

2008-02-22T22:58:00.005+08:00

From Mob's Crib

The national battle to againsts the political Dynasty of Abdullah Badawi is on. Today, it's confirmed that the husband of Nori Abdullah will contest at Rembau parliament seat. The man who will take on the son in law of PM, Badrul Hisham Shaharin a.k.a Chegubard is ready to rock!! Read the news from Malaysiakini below:

Rembau: It's Khairy vs Badrul Hisham

Feb 22, 08 7:21pm

Negri Sembilan’s Rembau parliament seat will see a battle between two 30-something aspiring politicians - Khairy Jamaluddin, 32, and Badrul Hisham Shaharin, 30.

Khairy, who is Umno Youth deputy chief and son-in-law of Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, will be pitted against Badrul Hisham, a former teacher and PKR’s youngest supreme council member.

Khairy is among 12 Umno new faces to be fielded by the ruling Negri Sembilan BN for the March 8 general elections.

He will replace incumbent Firdaus Haron.

Four state executive councillors have been dropped from the BN line-up, including Norhayati Omar.

Also dropped is Puteri Umno assistant secretary Bibi Sherliza Mohd Khalid, who will not be defending her state seat of Paroi.

Those who have been retained to defend their parliament seats include Dr Rais Yatim (Jelebu) and S Sothinathan (Teluk Kemang).

Fidel Castro retired

2008-02-19T20:45:00.003+08:00

The true revolutionary Cuba President, Fidel Castro announced his retirement today. Cuban's must be sad with this. Since the good policy of free education and free health care has benefited the people of Cuba.

Castro said that he's leaving the post because of health reason. The revolutionary leader insisted that he's not saying farewell,

"I just want to carry on fighting like a soldier of ideas."

Click here to read more about this.

Enough Samy.... Just quit...

2008-02-17T00:07:00.002+08:00

Do you think Samy understand?

Hindraf Supporters Obstruct Samy Vellu's Car

BUTTERWORTH, Feb 16 (Bernama) -- A group of about 60 people, who are believed to be Hindraf supporters, obstructed MIC president Datuk Seri S.Samy Vellu's car from leaving the compound of a school where he had earlier attended a function tonight.

In the incident at about 9pm, the car was trapped for about 15 minutes within the compound of the SJK(C) Chung Hwa 3 at Taman Kepar, here after it was swarmed by the group who refused to let the car leave the area.

The group, who had gathered at the school compound since 8pm, angrily knocked on the glass window of the Mercedes Benz carrying the Works Minister and asked him to alight from the car to meet them.

It is learnt that the group had come to meet Samy Vellu to ask for his assistance in seeking for the release of several of Hindraf's supporters who were detained for being involved in an unlawful assembly in the federal capital this morning.

Police had to step in to disperse the crowd and make way for Samy Vellu's car and two other vehicles escorting the minister's car to leave the area and prevent any untoward incident.

One of the group members, J.Balamurugan, 31, when met after the incident, said they had come to the school to seek clarification on the detention of several children at the gathering in the federal capital, whom he claimed were being detained at a welfare home in Kepong.

He said he and several of his friends were in Kuala Lumpur during the incident this morning and wanted the children to be released.

-- BERNAMA

Abdullah rejected the roses, returned with tear gas....

2008-02-16T23:55:00.003+08:00

The arrogant Abdullah Badawi rejected the roses. In returned, he gave tear gas to them and called them extremist... Click here.

Abdullah will regret......

2008-02-16T23:10:00.003+08:00

Crackdown before election?
Abdullah will regret....

Read the news from Malaysiakini below:

Rose protest: All but 9 released

Syed Jaymal Zahiid | Feb 16, 08 11:33am

Police fired teargas and chemical-laced water cannons in a bid to disperse some 300 Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) supporters gathered for a peaceful rose handing-over ceremony at Jalan Raja Laut early this morning.
The Hindraf event was initially scheduled to be held at Parliament gates where 200 children were to hand over roses as a peaceful gesture requesting that Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to heed the group’s 18-point demands.
News that roads leading to Parliament were closed to prevent the group from going there then led them to change the venue to Jalan Raja Laut in the city centre.
According to Hindraf acting leader S Thanenthiran who was present at the gathering, about 200 people have been arrested including Hindraf’s rose campaign coordinator S Manickavasagam and popular blogger B Mahendran.
Women and children were among those detained.
Witnesses also claimed that police had aggressively manhandled a women with her child when they wanted to arrest her.
"The woman was crying aloud because the police forced her to leave her child when she was arrested," said Mahendran who later informed Malaysiakini of the woman’s condition through his mobile phone.
Detained at roaddblocks
Thanenthiran added that almost two thirds of them were detained prior to the gathering at roadblocks set up along the routes leading to the city. They are being held at the Police Training Centre (Pulapol) in Jalan Semarak, Kuala Lumpur.
There were heavy police and riot squads presence in Jalan Raja Laut. Four water cannon trucks were stationed along the route leading to Parliament.
It is learnt that the police have been stationed at key areas pertaining to the gathering since last night. Roadblocks were also set up at various key routes leading into the city.
"The police outnumbered the crowd in three folds. I saw several of them firing teargas canisters to the peaceful crowd. Why is there a need to fire that many teargas canisters when one is strong enough (to disperse the crowd)," said a tourist who happened to be in the area.
After the teargas and water cannons were fired, the crowd were chased by some 40 plainclothes policemen. They then retreated into the Masjid India area.
The dispersed crowd then walked in small separate groups towards the Court Malai Pillayar Temple in Jalan Pudu where another stand-off occurred between Hindraf supporters and the police.
At this point, ten people were arrested while seeking shelter in the temple. Three more were later nabbed while making their way to the KL Remand Centre in Jalan Hang Tuah to show support to some Hindraf members who were detained last night.
By this time, the crowd had dispersed and small groups made their way to Pulapol to show support to those detained. According to A Sivanesan who is the group’s legal adviser, lawyers have been sent to Pulapol to ensure that detainees get proper legal help.
Mahendran, who was arrested near the Masjid Jamek area, had managed to contact Malaysiakini through his mobile phone and said that the "police are taking people in batches for questioning"
Police reaction unnecessary
Self-exiled Hindraf chairperson P Waythamoorthy in a statement issued immediately after learning of the arrests said he was extremely disturbed by the manner in which the police handled the matter.
"Peaceful struggle, gesture of Love and cry for justice of the poor and underclass Indian society has been met with violence and brutality by the state sanctioned by Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. The attack on peaceful poor and underclass people who came with roses is appalling,
"I invite all peace loving people throughout the world to condemn this brutal attack on innocent citizens who were exercising their rights under Article 10 of the Malaysian Federal Constitution and Article 20 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights," he said.
Police have declared today’s event illegal as no permit was given to the group.
Latest update as at 8pm

By 6pm today, the police released all arrested Hindraf supporters, including 20 children, except for nine people who are still being detained for questioning.

The nine, including two women, all aged between 35 and 40, were remanded for repeatedly defying police instructions to disperse.

They are believed to be the organising committee members of today’s gathering, including Manickavasagam.

According to Kuala Lumpur police chief Muhammad Sabtu Osman, a total of 124 individuals, including a mother and her daughter, were picked up by police.

He also said the nine would be remanded today. One of the men is on the police wanted list for a criminal case in Sentul.

When contacted, a tired Mahendran said that at Pulapol all arrested people were taken in for questioning in batches and he was in the last batch.

“I was arrested at 10.30am and was kept at Pulapol until about 6pm. I am now released without any charges,” he said.
Watch video here.

Crisis within BN

2008-02-15T15:24:00.002+08:00

It looks like the liar (Abdullah Badawi) resolved the parliament before solving the seats allocation between BN. Kayveas hit again to urged MCA, MIC and Gerakan to return seats which were PPP's.

Click here to read the news from Malaysiakini.

Malaysian Prime Minister is a liar.....

2008-02-14T08:15:00.003+08:00

On February 12 Abdullah said,

Parliament won’t be dissolved today, says PM (The Star, February 13)

BANGI: Parliament will not be dissolved today.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi put an end to such speculation, telling reporters here yesterday: “Esok tak ada (No, it won’t be tomorrow)”.

He also denied that today’s Cabinet meeting would be the last with his present team of ministers before Parliament is dissolved to pave the way for the next general election.

“What makes you think that? How do you know it’s going to be the last Cabinet meeting (before elections are called)?” he asked when responding to a question.

Asked if there would be more Cabinet meetings with the present team, Abdullah said: “Yes, there will be more.”

The Cabinet meets every Wednesday. The Prime Minister’s comments yesterday means it is still a guessing game as to when the polls would be called.

Abdullah, who is Barisan Nasional chairman, also said there would be no compromise in picking only clean candidates.

“In the last elections (2004), there were some people who were potential candidates, but they were being investigated by the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA). Their files were with the ACA, so I did not choose them,” he said.

He said he wanted a clean team of candidates and would ask the ACA to run a check on some of the potential candidates.

“I will get a report from the ACA, whether they are clear or not,” he said.

However, he would not be handing over a list of potential candidates to the ACA. “Nanti orang tahu susah pulak (It might be difficult if the names became known).”

Instead, he would ask the ACA to run checks on individuals here and there.

On the Election Commission’s move to allow recounts if there were a 4% difference in the winning vote, instead of a mere 2% as had been the practice, Abdullah said the ruling coalition accepted the decision.

“We follow whatever the EC decides,” he added.

But the day after he suddenly changed,

EC will meet and decide nomination and polling dates today (The Star, February 14)

By V.P SUJATA and MAZWIN NIK ANIS

PUTRAJAYA: The wait is over. Parliament was dissolved yesterday, paving the way for the country’s 12th general election.

Malaysians will be asked to give a fresh mandate to the government of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who pledged to continue with his development plans to lift the country to even greater heights.

The Election Commission (EC) will meet today to decide on the nomination and polling dates.

Abdullah, who will lead the Barisan Nasional into the election for a second time, said Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin had given his consent for Parliament's dissolution.

The King, whom Abdullah met yesterday morning, signed the declaration on the dissolution as provided for under Article 55 of the Federal Constitution.

“The EC will fix nomination and polling dates accordingly,” he told a packed press conference yesterday.

Also present was Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

The assemblies of all states except for Sarawak were also dissolved yesterday after the mentris besar and chief ministers sought consent from their respective rulers.

Sarawak held its state election last year.

The Barisan Nasional supreme council meeting will be held at 9.30am today followed by the Umno supreme council meeting at 11am.

Both are expected to discuss election issues.

During the press conference, Abdullah also explained why he could not commit himself on the exact date of the dissolution of Parliament, saying he had to seek the King’s consent first.

“How can I give a statement or give any indication?

“The most important thing is for the Yang di-Pertuan Agong to be informed (of the dissolution date) and for him to give his consent,” he said.

Asked if he had picked Feb 13 to dissolve the Parliament as it was said to be his favourite number, the Prime Minister said this was not the issue.

“The most important thing is the King consented to this date,” he said.

He added that the dissolution of Parliament during the Chinese New Year period would not affect celebrations or activities that the Chinese community had already planned.

Abdullah said there was nothing wrong with holding the general election 15 months earlier than the deadline and expressed confidence that it would not be a problem for the Barisan.

“I believe by getting a strong mandate from the people, we will be able to continue our efforts to bring about development to the country and prosperity to the rakyat.

“We are hoping for strong support by getting at least a two-thirds majority. What happened in the 2004 general election was a special record,” he said.

Meanwhile, the EC held several meetings at its office in Putrajaya to finalise arrangements for the nomination and polling dates.

EC chairman Tan Sri Abdul Rashid Abdul Rahman said:

“We have got the declaration on the dissolution of Parliament by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the announcement of nomination and polling will be done tomorrow.”

When asked if nomination day was set for Feb 21 and polling on March 2, he said:

“You can speculate anything you want. The official announcement is tomorrow (today).”

Abdullah denied that parliament will be dissolved tommorow

2008-02-12T22:44:00.000+08:00

The old man denied the rumors that he will dissolved the parliament tomorrow. Read the news from Malaysiakini below:

PM: No Parliament dissolution tomorrow

Feb 12, 08 9:50pm

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today dismissed speculations that the Parliament would be dissolved tomorrow to pave way for the general election.

"No, not tomorrow," he told reporters after attending a function at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia this evening.

He also dispelled the media’s queries if tomorrow’s cabinet meeting would be the last one before the election is called.

"What makes you think it's going to be the last cabinet meeting?” he asked.

"The cabinet meeting will go on, go on and go on. You are the smart aleck, you all enjoy circulating the rumours," he said with a smile.

The election fever has gained a tremendous momentum since the turn of the year with many political observers and politicians speculating that the nation’s 12th general election would be held before the end of this March.

Political analysts and the media had predicted that the much-awaited dissolution of the Parliament would be tomorrow (Feb 13) because 13 is the prime minister's favourite number.

Not during Chinese New Year

The premier also gave his assurance that only candidates who were cleared by the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) would be considered to contest.

“The ACA will give me a report if a candidate is cleared or not. If not cleared (by the ACA), then difficult (to be chosen as a candidate),” he said.

“If a person’s name is still in an ACA file and if investigation has started, then I will not consider that person,” he added.

It was widely reported today that several potential BN candidates from Selangor were dropped after they were not given the all-clear sign by the ACA.

Opposition Leader Lim Kit Siang in a statement earlier today had predicted that Abdullah would meet the King before the weekly cabinet meeting tomorrow to ask for the dissolution of Parliament.

He said that if that was the case, then it was most unfortunate as the prime minister would be “showing scant respect and sensitivity to Pai Tiang Gong on the ninth day and Chap Goh Mei on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year”.

Lim had earlier urged Abdullah not to hold the general election during the Chinese New Year period.

Still no answer from the Son In Law

2008-02-12T14:55:00.000+08:00

Since Chegubard wrote an open letter to PM Son In Law on January 24th to challenge him in the next general election, there's still no respond. Click here to read the letter.

What is the Son In Law up to? Is it a strategy? Or he afraid to contest in Rembau since the Umno people in Rembau is not happy if he contest there.

Rocky did a comparison between Chegubard Son In Law. Click here.

What about campaign for BN?

2008-02-11T18:38:00.001+08:00

Mustapa Mohamed warned the students not to campaign for political parties in the next general election. Click here.

My question is, what if they campaigned for BN? For example with Putera Umno and Puteri Umno.
Will the universities take action on them?

East Timor President been shot

2008-02-11T18:33:00.000+08:00

The Nobel Prize winner, Jose Ramos Horta who is currently the President of East Timor been shot by a rebel soldier. Later he was brought to Australia for further treatment. He is in critical condition. Click here to read the news from BBC.

Blogger to take on PM Son In law

2008-02-11T18:14:00.000+08:00

A blogger, Badrul Hisham is ready to face the PM Son In Law in any seats for the next general election. Read the news from Bernama below:

I'm Ready To Take On Khairy In Any Seat, Says Badrul Hisham

February 11, 2008 16:04 PM

SEREMBAN, Feb 11 (Bernama) -- Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) supreme council member Badrul Hisham Shaharin says he is prepared to take on Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin in any seat in the upcoming general election.

"My intention has received positive response verbally from the PKR leadership," he told Bernama Monday.

Last Wednesday, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan announced that Khairy was among five names nominated by the Rembau Umno division to contest in the Rembau parliamentary seat.

Mohamad said the decision was made based on Khairy's position as the Umno Youth No. 2 and Rembau Umno Youth chief.

In the 2004 general election, Badrul Hisham lost to Mohamad in the Rantau state seat.

-- BERNAMA

Will Samy Vellu drop the veterans including himself?

2008-02-11T15:29:00.000+08:00

Will Samy give the way to young people to be the candidate and drop the veterans including himself?

Read the news from Malaysiakini here.

Group mocks Dr M's 'selective memory'

2008-01-18T14:11:00.000+08:00

Andrew Ong | Jan 18, 08 1:16pm

In yet another twist to the Lingam tape scandal, a group held a short gathering in front of the Jalan Duta Court Complex today to mock a star witness’ testimony.

For about two minutes, the group of six people calling themselves the Young Malaysians Secretariat, unfurled three banners with the words “Mahathir mudah lupa (Mahathir forgets easily)”

The banners - in reference to Mahathir’s famous poem Melayu mudah lupa

In a prepared statement, spokesperson for the group Mohd Yunus Ali said Mahathir had claimed he could not remember or forgotten information while he was in power, when quizzed by the lawyers and members of the commission yesterday.

“He also denied that he had known lawyer VK Lingam while in power,” said Mohd Yunus.

(Malays forget easily) which he recited during the 2001 Umno general assembly - drew sniggers and curious onlookers comprising of lawyers and members of the public.Mirzan’s suits

Disputing this, Mohd Yunus (photo) said press reports in 1999 had shown possible links between Mahathir’s family and Lingam.

Mohd Yunus later distributed to reporters two press reports dating back to 1999, which reported that Mahathir’s son Mirzan had engaged Lingam’s firm in two defamation suits.

“Mahathir has selective memory... we are here to say that Malaysians don’t forget and he should not forget (as well),” said Mohd Yunus.

In addition, Mohd Yunus said Malaysians do not forget alleged corruption, abuse of power, suppression of human rights and curtailment of press freedom during Mahathir’s rule.

On Jan 4, the same group was responsible for symbolically delivering two pillows to the Prime Minister’s Office in Putrajaya (photo).

Dr M’s testimony

Among others, the royal commission is to enquire the truth behind the contents of the controversial Lingam tape, which some quarters claim is proof of interference in judicial appointments.

When quizzed by the commission on matters pertaining to judicial appointments, Mahathir answered several times yesterday that he could not remember or was unaware of certain specifics.

He also claimed that he had only come to know Lingam after he had stepped down as prime minister in 2003.

Mahathir’s testimony yesterday was also the first time that he had to account for his actions as prime minister in an open court.

News From Malaysiakini.

DR. KUMAR TO TAKE ON SAMY VELLU

2008-01-18T13:29:00.000+08:00

Ipoh, 17 January 2008

Last night , the Parti Sosialis Malaysia’s (PSM) National Election Committee after having consulted the various communities in Sungai Siput as well as due to the overwhelming support received by Dr. Kumar from many individuals in Perak as well as Nationally, have decided that the right candidate for the Opposition to take on Samy Vellu in the coming election would be Dr. Jeyakumar.

Dr. Kumar has been seen as the most serious, laudable and creditable candidate to take on Samy Vellu. The decision to field Dr. Kumar once again was achieved after many quarters feel that this is the right moment to oust Samy Vellu and that it is important for the opposition to field a candidate with the capacity to defeat Samy Vellu who have been holding on the seat for the last 33 years .

In 1999, PSM’s election petition was thrown out by the court after PSM put forward a case that Samy Vellu won because of phantom voters. In 2000, PSM used the SPR’s public complaint avenue and put in a test case of complaints against 340 voters, which the Party claimed were phantom voters. The SPR conducted a public inquiry, where MIC defended those accused by PSM as phantom voters, and the result was that 97% of the voters were found to be non Sg. Siput residents and were subsequently removed from the list. SPR then did an amendment which made it difficult to PSM to pursue to remove further phantom voters from Sg. Siput as well as revive the entire list.

In the last two elections, Dr. Kumar stood against Samy Vellu in a three cornered fight and in both these occasion, the PSM candidate came out second. In the last election, Dr. Kumar received 8,562 votes while DAP candidate lost his deposit with 2864 votes. In Jalong, PSM candidate, K.Segar also came out second in a three cornered fight. DAP candidate came out third. PSM stood under PKR logo in these areas.

With this scenario, it looks like PSM would once again stand in both, the Parliament as well as the Jalong State seat. According to PSM National Chairman, Dr. Nasir Hashim, the party would be contesting in two state seats in Selangor – Kota Damansara and Semenyih. While in Perak, besides Sungai Siput and Jalong, PSM would be eyeing for another two state seats, which the party is still negotiating with the DAP.

Fighting Samy Vellu’s money and manipulation would be a uphill task. But with the current wave and PSM’s consistent work in Sg. Siput, we think the moment is right and changes are finally possible.

BERSIH Press Statement on 2nd Rally

2008-01-15T12:10:00.000+08:00

Coalition For Clean And Fair Elections (BERSIH)

4A Jalan Sepadu, Taman United, Off Jalan Klang Lama, 58200 Kuala Lumpur

Tel: (03) 79806571 Fax: (03) 79802697 URL: www.bersih.org Email: info@bersih.org

Press Statement

12 January 2008

BERSIH announces the Pesta Rakyat "Jom BERSIH"

The Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (BERSIH) announces its second gathering which will take place on 23 February 2008.

In response to the PM and IGP's suggestions that BERSIH holds its gatherings in alternative venues such as a stadium, BERSIH has decided it will apply for three venues (Merdeka Stadium, Bukit Jalil Stadium as well as Dataran Merdeka) for its second gathering.

We are mobilizing the rakyat again as our core demands for electoral reform have not been seriously addressed by the Election Commission and the Barisan Nasional. BERSIH will over the next few weeks intensify our efforts to take our message of electoral reform to Malaysian citizens and inform them about the rally on 23 February 2008.

As the Barisan Nasional has tried to portray any public gathering critical of the administration as aggressive or violent events, we are declaring our rally as a "Pesta" and a celebration of our demand for electoral reform and of the real democracy that all freedom-loving Malaysians want. Everyone is welcome to attend the Pesta Rakyat “Jom BERSIH” with their families.

BESIH reiterates that the PM's and IGP's statement that a stadium was offered for the 10 November BERSIH rally is not true at all. The question of alternative venues did not crop up in the discussions between BERSIH leaders and the police, prior to the rally.

In mobilizing for the Pesta Rakyat "Jom BERSIH", we will inform the Rakyat about the following.

Firstly, the electoral roll remains dirty and flawed, in contrast to Tan Sri Rashid's claim that the electoral roll is now "free of dubious voters", as published in The Star on 9 January 2008. To take a minor example, many Malaysians have received emails about three voters whose ICs are "991214740101", "910815750017" and "981231081137" suggesting that they are either children or more than 100 years old. BERSIH was told by the EC HQ in Putrajaya on 31 December 2007 that the three were deceased voters and therefore their names would be removed. As at this morning, the names of the three are still on the electoral roll.

More seriously, voters have been transferred in and out of constituencies as and when the EC sees fit, it seems. Apart from that, in two recent cases, voters Sharmila Thuraisingam of Subang Jaya and Eric Liew of Petaling Jaya were registered without their knowledge ( as in the earlier case of prominent blogger Ahiruddin Atan aka "Rocky" ) respectively at the parliamentary seat of Kubang Kerian, Kelantan and state seat of Sekinchang, Selangor. These cases are essentially fraudulent registrations.

Tan Sri Rashid has still not responded specifically to Parti Keadilan's assertion with specific details how 12 dead Malay voters in the voting district of Jaya Setia came out of the grave and voted in the Ijok by-election in May; as well as how three Chinese voters at the voting district of Pekan Ijok arrived to vote in the afternoon and were told that they had voted in the morning!

Tan Sri Rashid has not satisfactorily explained how as many as 8,643 voters have been transferred en mass into Ipoh Timur currently held by the Parliamentary Opposition Leader. Of that, 3208 are new postal voters, even though there are no new army camps or police stations in the area. Is Tan Sri Rashid so incompetent that he knows nothing about all these examples of electoral fraud? Or, is he shamelessly misleading the Malaysian public by insisting that the roll is clean without explaining any of the above instances?

Electoral rolls are only the most basic requirement of a clean and fair electoral process, something which EC has failed to comply with. BERSIH has spelt out four other basic demands, which has been conveniently ignored by the EC and the Government. Instead, they have been trumpeting loudly about the introduction of transparent ballot boxes, which BERSIH has never requested for and sees the RM16 million spent on 50,000 ballot boxes -- RM320 per box -- a waste of tax-payers' money. It would be a world-class joke if EC thinks transparent ballot boxes equates to a transparent election.

Secondly, the implementation of BERSIH's demand for indelible ink to prevent multiple voting, which EC has verbally agreed to, may not even take place. BERSIH has long demanded a trial run, involving members of the press, the political parties and civil society groups, to address the concern of "removability" of the ink and other technical issues. No response has been forthcoming from the EC.

The EC has also recently insisted that an amendment to the Elections (Conduct of Elections) Regulations must be done for the use of indelible ink. Why did they not do it during the last year’s Parliament session if they were serious about implementating it? After all, the Fatwa Council gave the go-ahead for the issue in August last year. If the EC is serious and sincere about this, it must insist that the Government delays the imminent General Election until after the next session of Parliament.

Thirdly, the EC has not agreed to the abolition of postal votes for the military and police voters. In BERSIH’s 7 August 2007 meeting with the EC Deputy Chairman Dato’ Haji Wan Ahmad and four other Commissioners, we were assured that the police had agreed to allow polling agents to observe the casting of postal votes. At the time, Dato’ Wan Ahmad had added that the Ministry of Defence was not agreeable to the issue of allowing polling agents to observe the polling process.

Furthermore, the EC is also directly responsible for the 'import' or 'export' postal votes to whichever constituency they see fit, in order to influence the result in marginal seats, as we are now witnessing in Ipoh Timur.

Fourthly, nothing has happened with regard to BERSIH’s demand for free and fair media access. The mainstream media is blatantly used during elections to demonise Opposition leaders and instill fear in the people by the constant replay of footage of riots on state-owned TV stations. How can the elections be free and fair when voters are denied their right to making informed choices?

Fifthly, instead of considering BERSIH's demand for a campaign period of 21 days minimum, the EC Chairman has threatened to shorten it if the people take to the street to protest against unclean elections.

May we remind the EC that the campaign period of 7 days 13 hours in 2004 is already the shortest possible allowed by law? It is indeed truly ironic then that our colonizers, the British, was able to give us a 42-day campaign period in 1955!

For enquiries, please contact the secretariats; Faisal Mustaffa 019-2232002 or Medeline Chang 012-2192010 or e-mail to info@bersih.org

Where is she?

2008-01-12T19:01:00.001+08:00