An Activist’s Letter to Dr. Koh

 howlah, Pak Lah is going, can I friend with Najib?

I was asked to read a letter written by a fellow human rights activist and lawyer sent to Dr. Koh this afternoon.  The crux of its contents relate to Dato Seri Najib’s involvement in Razak Baginda’s acquittal and credibility to lead the country.  The following is an excerpt of his letter:

Dear Yang Berkhidmat Tan Sri Dr. Koh Tsu Koon,

Re:  The Sixth Prime Minister of Malaysia

I am writing to you because you are the one of the leader within Barisan Nasional in whom I dare place my hopes that my concerns relating to the person who aspires to soon be appointed as the sixth Prime Minister of Malaysia will receive genuine attention and, hopefully, positive action.

Yang Berkhidmat Tan Sri Dr. Koh, it is my sincere hope that as you have only recently been elected to the pinnacle of your party, which have demonstrated, since the 12th General Election, a greater sensitivity to the wishes and concerns of the electorate and a willingness to speak up on those wishes and concerns, you will now lead your party with requisite courage to address the concerns which I now wish to draw your attention to.

[...the rest is about the 'flaws' of the murder trial involving Najib]

However, if, like the rest of us, you too, are left to draw the same inferences and aspersions that might reasonably be drawn or made by the rest of us from the matters abovestated, I ask again how you and every other decent member of the Dewan Rakyat might, in all good conscience, say that you have the fullest confidence in Yang Berkhidmat Dato Seri Najib to lead this country as Prime Minister?  Would not every man and woman in the Dewan Rakyat who has sworn to act in the best interests of this country, be under an obligation to disclose to His Majesty that by reason of the matters stated above remaining unsatisfactorily answered, you cannot lend your support to Yang Berkhidmat Dato Seri Najib to lead this country as Prime Minister?

I fully understand and appreciate that the matter that I seek to bring to your attention vide this letter is a difficult one. However, if these serious matters which relate to the leadership of our country and which now greatly trouble the people are not to be taken back to our political leaders, then I am truly at a loss as to who these grave concerns should be taken to.

Your duties will no doubt afford you little time to respond to this letter. I shall be grateful if you would give the matters and concerns raised herein your fullest attention and to take such action as your conscience dictate.

I thank you for taking time out from your busy schedule to read this letter.

I am, as always, anak Bangsa Malaysia,

Haris Ibrahim.

“Malaysia Has Lost Credibility In The World”

   Being distraught over the decision of Razak Banginda’s acquittal, Altantuya’s father said this just now:  “I am not satisfied.  My daughter knows only one Malaysian and it is Razak Baginda.  Now my daughter is dead and Baginda is freed … the country has lost credibility in the world”.

During lunchtime just now, I bumped into 2 friends who also commented on the verdict of the sensational case : “It is all fixed up man!”, “Expected right?”.  In the mind of many Malaysians after 2 years of mud-slinging and allegations, they believe there is a certain degree of truth even if proven otherwise.  I am unable to predict the grounds of no prima facie case declared by the Judge as I stopped following the news about 2 months after the trial begun.  But my concern is why is the government has been so foolish to stir all kinds of dissatisfaction particularly after BN’s performance in the general election?  First the racism issue, then the fuel hike follow by erroneous ISA arrests, Eurocopter purchase and now the verdict.  Are they playing with fire or what?  Whatever these people political agenda, it is definitely unwise to further lead the country where majority of its people perceived the government (BN) as bunch of useless and dirty politicians!  They must stop all the nonsense now, eradicate corruption and money-politics seriously, at least to prove that they mean serious business especially when Najib takes over.

Act with strategy not with tragedy!

Sony Ericsson Xperia X1

Several months ago, I was cracking my head to purchase a ’peculiar’ smartphone – E90, E66, HDC; which I opted for Nokia E71.  Recently the newly launched Xperia X1 is indeed a standout among others and it hits me with a temptation to change my phone again but that will be a never-ending trend…

True Polis Story – Don’t Get Arrested!

  My clients were arrested at Kampung Baru Subang on 14 October 2008 by the USJ 8 arrest team, suspected of possessing stolen vehicles.  Eight of them were actually arrested at the workshop and the remaining 4 at a shoplot 50 metres away.  Subsequently the family members of the proprietors contacted me and I proceeded to the station.  A wife of the director told me that she ‘paid’ RM2000 just to visit and provide foods to the suspects in the lock-up!  Although I did rebuked her, I can understand the trauma faced by her and the children.  As usual, the arresting officer (being a Chinese himself) was unfriendly and reluctant to disclose anything to me.  Similarly the investigation officer (IO) was not of much help too.  As a result I had no choice but to attend court the next day for the remand proceeding.  Luckily we have section 28 of the CPC, otherwise they can remand the suspects sine die.  Nonetheless they always have their tricks to plead that the investigation cannot be completed within 24 hours, thus further detention of the accused (not suspect!) is necessary – section 117.  But such custody cannot exceeds 15 days.

  Expectedly being an early stage of the arrest, my objection at the PJ Magistrate court the next day was refused.  The police claimed that they have reasons to believe the suspects are the syndicate involving nationwide car-theft cases.  Are the reasons well-founded?  Subsequently I discovered there are about 40 cases reported to be linked as offences committed by my clients.  So the road-shows begun … ie the police will rearrest and lock them up in different jurisdictions upon the expiry of the remand order.  After seven days of detention, true enough they were arrested by IPK Shah Alam.  This time the IO was kind enough to inform me their grounds of arrest - based on a report from Bkt Jelutong, hence investigation under section 379A of the Penal Code.  On 21.10.2008, I appeared at the Shah Alam court, the police and wardens were more generous this time to allow the wives and mothers of the suspects to have a word with them.  I of course took the opportunity to gather as much facts as possible from them.  I was informed that the grounds of arrest were not told to them.  This was a clear violation of Article 5 of the Federal Consitution!  No person to be deprived life/liberty save in accordance with law.  An arrested person must be informed of his grounds of arrest as soon as may be.  They applied for 8 days remand order but upon my submission, the Magistrate granted 4 days instead.  The whole proceeding took place at the registry instead of an open court!

The following day, out of no where two ‘runners’ approached me to discuss about settling the matter with the police.  They sounded very confident to say two of my clients being the proprietors will be detained under Emergency Ordinance (EO).  I questioned them on the credibility of their sources but they refused to disclose.  The runners actually requested RM200K to ’settle’ the matter with the possibility of ’buang daerah’ instead of EO.  They wanted me to act fast before the file is transfer to KDN.  Of course I was not going to believe the ‘runners’ words as I know all EO detainees could appeal to the review board within the KDN to further decide on their detention or ‘buang daerah’.  Then I called a friend who is a senior officer at Bukit Aman.  My friend told me that he is promoted to be in-charge of EO cases, so I spoke to the right person!  The response was there is no such EO order yet, so there go the fast-cash scheme of the runners.

By this time, my clients had gone through severe mental torture after being ‘interviewed’ by different officers again and again.  The next stop will be Ampang station.  I managed to squeeze the legality of the arrest by telling one of the officer before she obediently allowed my right of access to see my clients.  Subsequently the IO agreed to call my handphone as to when they will bring the suspects to court for another remand order.  I smelled something fishy the next day.  Upon my arrival at the Ampang court, I was told that a remand order was granted without my presence.  The IO told me that he had been trying to call me the whole morning but just can’t get through.  What a trap!

My clients were rearrested by Kajang IPD yesterday after the previous remand order expired.  The police just don’t want to charge them yet for unknown reasons.  The Kajang IO was a fierce one as he claimed that I am making their lives difficult.  Thus this time I need to be very careful to collect information about my clients’ whereabout.  At the Putrajaya court this morning, to my surprise 4 of the suspects are to be further investigated under another offence of section 457 – housebreaking.  This is horrendous!  A lawyer friend who attended on my behalf (as I was engaged at Shah Alam court for another matter) objected to the remand strenously.  The court seemed to be in favour of us pertaining to the procedure of the arrest.  The police was required to prove their grounds or information in one hour time.  Unfortunately the police ambushed the plan where they did not appear after that.  All the family members were at the court but no one knows what was happening.  I found out later the IO had decided not to apply for the remand order without informing the court!  The suspects were taken away.  We rushed to the Kajang station but everyone there behave suspiciously.  While waiting, I took the opportunity to blog hoping that a good samaritan will keep us informed.  This is our country, can we imagine the repercussion if one is arrested under ISA or EO?  [The Magistrate subsequently refused the remand application but they were rearrested by Selayang police force]

Compounding this sad scenario is the fact that Malaysia has put in place a set of undemocratic and repressive practice that can be counted as one of the worst in the world.  I am going to get help from Sivarasa (PKR) or Gobind (DAP), hopefully one of them can assist fruitfully.  My lawyer friend asked: why not someone from Gerakan?  To me, it is more relevant to ask is there anyone can help from Gerakan?  Anyway it does not matter which political party, so long as it is a good deed for the people.  Stop the discrimination act of the police!

Mercedez Benz SCL 600

Something different !

Any idea how to drive this machine?

Solution or Problem?

After my trip to the Simpang Renggam detention centre yesterday, I was lepaking at a mamak restaurant and thought of the following question over a glass of teh-tarik:  Do religion/race offer a solution or is it part of the problem?

Generally every religion and race believe in goodness and righteousness, carrying the same message of love, compassion, honesty, forgiveness, tolerance, self-discipline, containment etc.  I personally witness a few folks of different races discussing about their business ventures while enjoying a game of ‘dam’.  The thought of different colours and religion beliefs never seems to be appeared in their mind.  Perhaps such harmony is becoming increasingly rare in the urban.  Too often, our thinking of racial groups is for the purpose of division.  We accentuate our differences negatively rather than treat our differences as a strength.  That is the problem.  Sadly there are still many political leaders and parties unwilling to embrace the identity of a single Malaysian, just to exploit their positions of power for personal gain.  After all we still have those policies that are organised and driven along racial lines.

Recently DPM Najib has hinted that there is a need to do away (or to liberalise) the NEP gradually thus the Malay rights will be affected.  Liow Tiong Lai proposed the same even to the extend of abolishing the bumis 30% equity in all respective listed companies.  Selangor MB indeed did a great job in appointing Low to head PKNS based on merits but certain quarters of the Malay community challenged the decision.  In a separate occassion, Dr. M and Shafie Apdal argued that it is not the right time yet and the government needs to consider rationally about taking away the non-Malays’ rights too.  What rights do the non-Malays have?  Shafie said the rights of being accepted into this country back in 1955.  What bloody nonsense is he talking about by reversing back into history!  Dr. M impliedly refers to education, customs and business oppurtunity.  Again rubbish.  In other words, what they are trying to say is orang Cina tak boleh pegang jawatan tinggi di dalam organisasi kerajaan walaupun berkaliber.  Tak tahu sampai bilalah nak kena spoon-feed!  Think about the country’s development and economy.

 dream on, my dear Chinese friend…

On the other hand, I am one of those who perceive the non-Malays vernacular schools as something detrimental to national unity because it detracts from the purpose of being a ‘Malaysian’ identity.  Zaid Ibrahim once said politicians should always encourage our multi-racial society to perceive each other’s beliefs and cultures as a strength instead of weakness.  No one dare to say it is an easy path as such change always involve sensitive issues.

  Umno and its partners in BN ?

So it is the politicians especially from UMNO (or ex-UMNO) (as for now) who have influence the people not to fathom a situation where we can be unified in our diversity.  If it is not the right time yet, then when?  A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

Ultimately I believe in attempting to change the way Malaysians think about each other, we desperately needed visionary leaders who can give an inspiring and hopeful vision of pluralism in Malaysia (is there one in Gerakan?  If yes; bulls-eyed!).  The GE has proven that the people is willing to accept change but sadly some of the BN political leaders are reluctant to do so.

Thus my answer to the above question as two opposite tendencies exist, it offers both – solution and problem.

“It isn’t that they can’t see the solution.  It is that they can’t see the problem” – G.K.Chesterton.

Deepavali Greetings

   Today the world is enlightened with the great wealth of knowledge of Hinduism. The basic science of Yoga has spread to all parts of the world, so much so that the great values of both spiritual and practical have brought about a flood of teachers of Hindu philosophies. Any society which is looking for solace away from the materialistic evils around them can find it in the Dharma – right way of life of the eternal law.  The 21st century sees the light of our great culture and philosophy – lit bright and clear in all parts of the world.  Not to mention other teachings such as Karma Sutra, Vasu something (ie fengshui of Indian) and my favourite banana leave rice (esp Raju PJ).
Generally, all versions interpreting Deepavali depicts the triumph of good over evil. This is the time for lighting up our own lives by reminding us to do away with bad and evil thoughts and deeds.

Happy Deepavali !

Social Contract : Never Ending

The rulers also announced that “it is not proper to dispute and question this social contract, and more so to subject it to a review or change because it is the primary basis of the formation of Malaysia.”  Muhyiddin and Sultan Azlan supported the idea of educating the issue of social contract in schools.  Zulkifli Noordin exposes his true self again.  Tan Lian Hoe defends endlessly just to voice out a historical fact.

  Let me reiterate the underlying principle behind this issue of social contract is well-defined under Article 153 of the Federal Constitution.  The rulers also referred the same, which they said encompasses the protection for all ethnic groups. Some see it as a mutual agreement among our forefathers in order to achieve independence, while others feel it is a concept that protects the rights and privileges of the Malays in the Constitution.

The impact of Article 153 enjoins affirmative action in favour of Malays and the bumiputeras.  Be that as it may, it is also the Agong’s responsibility to safeguard the legitimate interest of the non-Malays/Bumis.  Unfortunately, many of the restrictions and qualifications are not well known especially among the politicians.  It could also the problem of bureaucrats showing reluctance to translate enlightened policies into concrete actions.  Many administrative practices, though not based on the law, have direct implications for or against national unity.  The most glaring is the ever-present requirement on official documents of stating our race or religion.  Recent narrow-minded and over-zealous politicians show scant sensitivity to the need for tolerance and respect for diverse values.  Despite many challenges to national unity, there is no reason to believe that our Constitution cannot accommodate and harness these tides.

Our inter-ethnic relationships seem to be under stress, it is crucial time to strenghten the beautiful foundation built by the forefathers of the Constitution.

News on Gerakan…

Several friends commented on the new appointments of Chia Kwang Chye being the VP and Teng Chang Yeow as the new Sec-Gen. as well as the reappointed Treasurer and about Asharuddin’s role.  Their feedbacks were relatively doubting the ‘new team’ can perform aggressively.  Can they?

Gerakan has largely been focusing on returning to its multi-ethnic roots since its dismal performance in the March general election. But there are other more crucial issues, writes CHOK SUAT LING.

GERAKAN has been robustly advocating change since the March 8 general election when it won only two of the 12 parliamentary seats and five of the 31 state seats it contested.

It wants to return to its founding philosophy and ideology by being more multiracial. There are also ominous calls for the party to pull out of the Barisan Nasional.

Events leading up to the party elections the previous weekend certainly pointed towards a desire on the part of the largely Chinese-centric Gerakan to metamorphose into a more multiracial organisation.

First, Deputy Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister Senator A. Kohilan Pillay was elected a Gerakan state chief, the first non-Chinese to occupy that position. This was speedily followed by an announcement by Penang Gerakan state chairman Datuk Dr Teng Hock Nan that he would not be seeking re-election as vice-president to pave the way for non-Chinese leaders.

There was thus a heightened expectancy about the scale of reformation that would come after the party elections. But that turned out to be anticlimactic. What was to have been a precursor of change evaporated into thin air when nearly all the winners were Chinese.

Gerakan delegates voted in only three of the 10 Indian candidates to the party’s central leadership. This was also the trend in the youth and women’s wings.

Post-election talk has since centred largely around the need to attract and recruit more members from the other races as well as to continue striving to change the mindset of grassroots members who remain resistant to change.

Gerakan vice-president Huan Cheng Guan, for example, criticised the Penang Gerakan committee line-up for not reflecting the multiracial composition advocated by the party.

“In the elections, delegates were urged to choose a Chinese, a Malay and an Indian as vice-presidents,” he said.

Is this the way forward for the party? Post March 8 discussions have focused almost completely on the need for Gerakan to shed its largely mono-ethnic image and return to its roots.

The fact that it has veered from its founding philosophy was blamed for the party’s dismal showing in the general election. Analysts claimed that Malaysians were fed up with the politics of race and no longer saw race-based parties as relevant or even desired.

This naturally sparked off calls to reform and adopt a more multiracial outlook not just in Gerakan but also in MCA and Umno.

But some party members and observers argue that this multiracial focus may not have been entirely prudent, or even correct. They say Gerakan needs to move away from this line of thinking and focus on finding out the real reasons behind its apocalyptic performance in the elections.

According to a Gerakan branch head, the racial composition of the party is inconsequential as long as the party delivers and can help people of all races.

“I do not understand this strident focus on multiracialism. While it is good that we are striving to go back to our multi-ethnic roots, it will not happen overnight. The party elections demonstrated that clearly.

“Besides, even if we are largely mono-ethnic, it should not stop us from helping Malaysians of all races. We must rise above the current narrow view,” he says.

A Penang-based political analyst agrees that being largely mono-ethnic is not the reason Gerakan lost badly in the March elections. Not fulfilling what it was supposed to have in Penang was. And the groundswell of dissent against BN in general was the other. To rise above the painful defeat, Gerakan must address these issues and not expend all its energies on changing the racial make-up of the party.

Universiti Sains Malaysia senior lecturer in the School of Social Sciences Dr Sivamurugan Pandian observes that Malaysians are still very much focused on race.

“Our society has not moved beyond racial politics yet. Even now, people continue to talk along racial lines.”

He notes that Pakatan Rakyat is similar in racial make-up to BN.

“It is a mirror of BN in that Keadilan Rakyat is largely Malay, Pas Malay and DAP Chinese. So, each party is not really multiracial.

“Malaysians voted the way they did on March 8 not because they have rejected racial politics, but more because they were dissatisfied with BN. So the way forward for Gerakan, and indeed the whole of BN, is to get rid of the push factors.”

On Gerakan’s part, Sivamurugan points out that it needs to study why it was decimated in Penang.

“In my opinion, it was because it did not fulfil what it had promised. It did not sufficiently uplift the welfare of the people in Penang even though it promised much between 2004 and 2008.”

He says the people also did not like how Gerakan was kowtowing to Umno.

Another factor was the opposition’s effective use of the Internet. News portals and blogs were used to spread opposition views and messages, and “expose” BN’s alleged wrongdoings.

Sivamurugan says the key is for Gerakan to coordinate more effectively with other BN component parties.

And the parties within the coalition must be seen to be united.

“We’ve never seen them disagreeing as openly as they are now. They should focus on building BN’s foundation.”

He says that the leadership also needs to be strengthened by infusing more “young blood” into the party.

“At present, almost all branch leaders are those from the older generation. Many have been holding positions for a long time.

“I am not saying that all should be replaced, but there must be a conscious attempt to rope in the younger leaders as they will be able to attract voters and members from the same age group.”

Indeed, all component parties must focus on building BN’s foundation for the coalition has its merits. The nation’s founding fathers believed in it and it has been successful through the years.

Gerakan has to convince the people that it is a better party at a time when the Opposition is using populist and social issues to elevate themselves.

If it does well in the next few years and Pakatan Rakyat falters, then it has the chance to win back the people’s support. Otherwise, it is as good as finished.

The Dream Team

We came from different backgrounds, colours, races and status but we stand firm in the name of Human Rights!

Abolish ISA Campaign

Before touching on the topic, I must say that MCA did a great job in their general assembly last Saturday.  Unlike Gerakan the party indeed created a perception that they are a faithful and forceful partner of UMNO.  For that I wonder why they are still calling themselves as an association.  The outgoing president Ong Ka Ting in his last speech (also to Pak Lah) spoke well and openly about UMNO and the PM.  Last week during Gerakan’s NDC, Ong also called for the ISA to be reviewed.  Why everyone is raising the people’s voice now?  As for Ong, why not?  After all he is leaving and has nothing to lose, thus I praise him for unlocking the minds of many in the component parties.

After the MCA assembly the PM said the government have no plans to review the preventive detention law.  He added that ISA is still relevant.  The Act may be necessary in certain circumstances but it is always subject to abuse and causes insecurity instead.  This is especially true when I look at the events ocurred during the Ops Lallang and incidents over the last one month.  Detention without trial is definitely a violation against human rights principles.  Detainee or the arrested has a right to know the grounds of arrest, it does not require a rocket science knowledge to explain such reason.  Moreover it was not intended to repress lawful political opposition and democratic activity on the part of the citizentry.  Neither is should be used as an instrument of oppression by the government.  To think about it, never there had been so many leaders in the BN voiced their concern over such draconian law, thus it is ripe for a review if not abolition.

On the other hand, due to the nature and maturity of our society, sometimes it may be also necessary to have such a law, otherwise the act of those perpetrators will actually affect the security and stability of the nation.  Such can be a tool for keeping racial, religious and social cauldrom from boiling over.  This explains why Singapore, Britain etc are still using such related laws.  Ultimately what I or most people are worried is the abuse or manipulation by certain quarter for their political mileage.  Thus a resounding no.

  On Sunday I was at the KL/Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall to witness the endorsement of a memorandum demanding for abolition of the ISA by 311 NGOs, associations and organisations.  Had a little conversation with Mrs. RPK but I have to disagree with her opinion on the condition of the detention centre, as I was there three months ago.  It was a campaign hoping that Pak Lah can leave a good impact before his retirement.  Hopefully our PM will seriously gives a thought at least to review the ISA as such will be the ideals of due process without sacrificing our concern for stability and harmony.

Contributed by Noor Arianti (BCHRC):

KUALA LUMPUR, Sunday, 19 October 2008 – “The Bar Council will keep up the deafening sound of objections against the ISA,” said Lim Chee Wee, the Secretary of the Bar Council, in his speech during the gathering to endorse the abolition of the Internal Security Act, 1960 held at the Kuala Lumpur Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH) today.

Also speaking at the gathering were Dato’ Bong Hon Liong, President of KLSCAH, Dr. Yap Sin Tian, Chairman of Dong Zong, Tan Sri Lim Gait Tong, President of the Federation of Chinese Assembly Hall (FECAM), Ong Chiow Chuan, President of Jiao Zong, Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh, Chaiman of Gerakan Mansuhkan ISA (GMI), Norlaila Othman, wife of ISA detainee Mat Sah Mohd Satray, Marina Lee Abdullah, wife of Raja Petra Kamarudin and Haris Ibrahim, lawyer and founder of the blog, The People’s Parliament. 

Based on the record provided by GMI Secretariat Enalini Elumalai, this year alone GMI has organised over 30 events calling for abolition of the ISA. Today’s endorsement by various organisations from all over the country is seen as the beacon of hope for this draconian law to be abolished in very near future.

Lim Chee Wee in his speech also noted that endorsements are received from organisations, which comprise not only human rights activists, political parties on both sides of the spectrum and educationists, but even business people. If even business people whom are conservative are concerned about ISA, this goes to show how threatening the public as a whole find ISA, he explained. He also urged the Prime Minister to add repealing ISA as his fourth initiative to his three promised initiatives before he steps down.

Norlaila, also known as Kak Laila, stressed that the best way to recruit support is by word of mouth. Marina suggested GMI to hold this sort of gathering all over the country to increase the momentum.

Haris announced that The People’s Parliament has started “ISA Candlelight Vigil” last week and invited the audience to attend the second vigil tonight. “Let’s do it in every state and keep doing it until ISA is abolished,” he said.

The gathering which ended at about 1pm saw about 300 people from the various organisations in attendance, including the President of Pertubuhan Jamaah Islah Malaysia (JIM), Tn Hj Zaid Kamaruddin.

Also present were Brendan Siva, HR Dipendra and Richard Wee representing the Kuala Lumpur Bar, Syamsuriatina Ishak representing the Selangor Bar as well as the Bar Council Human Rights Committee and Amer Hamzah Arshad, Andy Yong, Fadiah Nadwa Fikri, Maria Soosai Raj and Seira Sacha Abu Bakar also from the Bar Council Human Rights Committee.

Oh My God!

When will I stop seeing unjustifiable and ridiculous decision-making in our Bolehland?

A police beat located in Chow Kit was shut down because the “presence of criminals could make it unsafe” for police officers said Syed Hamid Albar.  My God!  My eyes almost fall out when I read this just now.  Other reason includes filthiness of the area and possible exposure of contagious disease.  Something is wrong with this Home Minister - since the unjustifiable ISA arrest.  Is he telling us that our police should run away from the criminals?  Why is that place becomes so dirty – whose fault?  Why are there so many drug addicts and prostitutes around?  Even a fool will know the answer.

  Despite petitions and voices against the appointment, last night Tan Sri Zaki is appointed as our new Chief Justice.  Horrendous!  In less than 14 months an ordinary lawyer becomes a Chief Justice!!!  I had requested someone in our party to issue a press statement opposing the same but as usual nothing comes out.  In fact the only politician who did that was Lim Kit Siang.

Zaki was an UMNO strongman and son of the former Lord President Tun Azmi.  He was called to Malaysian Bar in December 1983.  He made history on September last year for his straight appointment as a Federal Court judge.  Subsequently in December, he was promoted as President of the Court of Appeal, number 2 post in the judiciary and now the CJ!  Can we imagine someone who has less than 2 years experience on the bench being elevated to the apex position, what a laughing stock!

Pak Lah also announced that he will set up 3 Commissions before handing over the premiership to Najib in March.  The proposed bills include Judicial Appointment Commission (JAC), Commission on the Prevention of Corruption (CPC) and The Special Complaints Commission (SCC).  JAC will selects candidates for the judiciary.  It must be done so on merit, through fair and open competition.  There must have critierias such as good character, intellectually capable and qualified for the appointment.  If Zaki was to be assessed in accordance to the criterias, no way he is qualified for the new position.  To me CPC would also not serve positive purpose as its function are in conflict with the existing ACA.  What exactly is the SCC?  Ombudsman?  At the end of the day all these may promote more monetary ‘commissions’ instead of reforming the system.  The PM has taken a lot of heat for his audacity to make our country a better place, so I hope he will not makes any blunder again.  Does he qualifies to be called the ‘father of democracy’ as according to Dr.Koh?  Many criticises though.

People who just refuse to accept that freedom, transparency, justice and democracy do not realised that those are the prerequisite to a developed nation.  Another sad day…

Shhh, Don’t Tell !

  Gone are the days?

There were numerous feedbacks and comments in the ‘Third Force’ workshop I attended recently.  However my concern is more on the public’s perception of the party where the following are some of the negative remarks I collected both from the real world and cyberspace:

-  Consicience of BN?  My Ass!, more of a dog instead;

-  No Action, Talk Only (NATO);

-  Mosquito party thus could not be bothered;

-  UMNO’s shadow;

-  Irrelevant party, sinking ship;

-  Meaningful role in BN?, ya being louder in sound!;

-  In no way can Gerakan be a threat with only 2 MPs, waste of time;

-  Gerakan is still under Keng Yaik’s control;

-  Support Gerakan as independent in the next GE?  That will be wasting my vote…;

-  President and the leaders are pondans, talk a lot recently but no action;

-  Koh is the father of indecisiveness,

-  what special task force to review ISA, PPPA, UUCA or NUA; again full of bullshits with no actions taken or concrete execution;

-  Don’t be emotional but rational?  Just say you guys are coward!

Ok, ok that’s enough !  Hmm, hmm…where do we go from here?  The message is clear and many of us are well aware of the situation.  I do hope the CWC or CC will once and for all discuss the ultimate position of the party clearly.  The members must be informed about the pros and cons of being a third party/force.  We then need to evaluate it before arguing for and against the issue.  I have to agree with some of the comments that it is not the question of being in or out of BN but where is the party stance and future lies?

  

To be an effective third force, Gerakan must be bold to champion in issues that are controversial or neglected by the two coalitions.  A resurgent Gerakan must have the people who sincerely wanting to serve, this is a quality that most political parties lack of.  The elected leaders must take the extra miles to touch the lives of the people, to be a servant.  He or she must has that conviction in order to create an impact among the people.  How many of us actually experienced poverty or loss, truly know the meaning of serving?  Deep in my heart, I honestly believe that a person will never be truly happy if he is not sincere in whatever he does in a political party (or any organisation), thus he will not go far.

Gerakan need to be unique to convince the potential voters’ trust.  Do we have that quality?  Do we have the funds and resources to survive as a third force?  Can we win any state to become the government again?  I really can’t answer these questions in positive but I am convinced that the party cannot afford to remain stagnant but to fight on.  Do Gerakanese really want to commit and sacrifice?  Reflect and think about it…wouldn’t it a beautiful thing to leave an impact in helping and changing people’s lives before we leave this world?

  Our Tun Mahathir also commented recently on the position of Gerakan where he said Gerakan has two options of joining the opposition or becoming an independent party if it decided to leave BN.

“With the opposition, it (Gerakan) will be a very junior partner as it is mainly concentrated in Penang. If it becomes an independent party, never mind…an independent party has never been able to form a government,” he said in reference to Gerakan’s oft-repeated threat to quit the ruling coalition.

“It’s up to the Gerakan leaders to choose. If they stay in BN, they have the chance of remaining in government, or become an independent party, or put themselves under (Datuk Seri) Anwar Ibrahim (PKR advisor) and they have to follow him. It’s their choice,” he said.  So another chicken and egg question?

Diapers = Politicians

Politicians are like diapers.  They both need changing regularly and for the same reason.  Thailand is constantly changing its leader.  UMNO and MCA are changing their chiefs, Gerakan retains the same one, MIC yet to know.  What is the implication?  Does the party really need to change its chief in order to revive?  Personally I do not think so unless the diaper is completely worn out ie incorrigible chief.

I like this:  ‘Politics, it seems to me, for years, or all too long, has been concerned with right or left instead of right or wrong’ – how true indeed…

Ketuanan ‘Mat Salleh’

Setiap kali isu ketuanan Melayu dihebohkan, saya sedar bahawa tidak ada seorang pemimpin Melayu pun mencabar ketidakrelevenan perkara tersebut baik dari kerajaan atau pembangkang.  Kenapa?  Dari segi psikologi (atau fakta), sememangnya rakyat Malaysia yang bukan Melayu selalu mengampu dan memberi gambaran seperti kaki-bodek kepada pemimpin Melayu.  Bukan sahaja di kalangan ahli politik tetapi juga ahli perniagaan yang kaya-raya.  Sebab sedemikian tidak perlu saya jelaskan – biasalah perdana menteri, dan kebanyakan menteri-menteri, ketua-ketua, pengarah-pengarah, polis dll adalah orang Melayu.

Baru-baru ini semasa beratur untuk membayar barangan saya di satu pusat beli-belah, saya amat kecewa dengan perangai seorang jurujual yang begitu beza terhadap ‘mat salleh’ berbanding dengan orang tempatan.  Kenapa pulak?  Adakah mat salleh merupakan konsumer yang besar?  Tentu tidak.  Lantaran juga dalam pengalaman saya berkerja di sektor penginapan, ramai rakan-rakan sekerja sentiasa memberi khidmat yang baik :) kepada ‘mat salleh’, pada hal orang tempatanlah yang biasanya memberi tip yang lebih.  Penghunian dan lawatan saya dahulu di Australia, New Zealand dan Perancis jelas membuktikan bahawa ramai ‘mat salleh’ adalah pariah dan kedekut.  Saya percaya sedemikian adalah disebabkan pengaruh media, filem asing, sukan dan unsur-unsur sejarah kita.

Apa yang ingin saya tegaskan adalah kita sebagai rakyat Malaysia mesti berbuka hati dalam teguran terhadap seseorang manusia tanpa mengira kaum dan bangsa.  Kita harus lebih mementingkan keharmornian dan keadilan terhadap setiap rakyat Malaysia sendiri terlebih dahulu.

  Dalam perkara lain, Datuk Khamsiah Yeop semalam mengutuk YB Grik iaitu Tan Lian Hoe dari Gerakan atas pengataan beliau bahawa orang Melayu juga merupakan sebagai ‘pendatang asing’ di negara kita (patutlah handphone saudari asyik berbunyi semasa workshop yang turut dihadiri saya).  YB juga menghuraikan bahawa Parti Gerakan tidak harus menjadi bayangan kepada UMNO di dalam BN.  Yeop mengatakan bahawa YB tidak mengenang budi atas kejayaan pilihanrayanya di Grik kerana kebanyakan penyokong dan pengundi adalah orang Melayu.  Rais Yatim juga membentangkan bahawa UMNO perlu mengkaji kedudukan Gerakan di dalam BN.  Apalah semua ini…bilakah mereka akan matang dan sedar bahawa kita (atau BN) sedang menghadapi satu perjalanan yang penuh dengan cabaran demi mencapai misi negara yang membangun.  Isu sebegini akan dinyatakan di dalam diari saya sebagai analisa sama ada UMNO adalah ‘rakan’ politik yang wajar dieratkan atau tidak.  Semoga satu hari nanti atau dalam masa setahun dua, Parti Gerakan akan membuat satu keputusan muktamad demi kepentingan parti dan rakyat.  Kita semua rakyat Malaysia!

It’s time to keep the ball rolling…

  With a glimpse of an eye, the 37th Parti Gerakan Rakyat Malaysia National Delegates Conference ended last weekend.  Suddenly I sincerely feel that the journey is worth taking to a certain extend.  I wonder did Pak Lah or Najib realised that the BN or ‘dacing’ logo was never seen in the  back-drop of the conference nor any part of the premise this time.  A hint of something?  To initiate BN club as a single entity?  To me it will be a waste of time and resources, eventually into oblivion…

Naturally the outcome of the election produced happy and sad faces.  To the winners, it is just the beginning of their uphill task to rejuvenate and make the party more relevant in the eyes of the public.  Whether or not they can perform, we shall see in the next one or two years.  To the non-winners, I hope they will put aside their prejudices and differences, close ranks and recognise the party’s rejuvenation challenges – unity (ya cakap je senang tapi for the benefit of the party, bersatu hatilah).  To the youth, some consider the first historical election of the wing indeed produced a ‘dream team’.  To the main body, it is also seem to be an ideal one as it comprises potential leaders from all walks of life – doctors, lawyers, businessmen, taikohs , warlords etc.

More importantly is how can the new team (but old captain) make a difference.  The captain and winners may not be satisfied with the results as ‘he’ can anticipate not all the players (winners) will play the ball according to his style or ways.  On the question of how to strategise and keep scoring is a matter of the leadership qualities and influence over the team (including the grassroots).  First and foremost everyone must cooperate sincerely with a common and clear goal (or reinforcement) - that is to start scoring.  What is that common goal (or solution) and how to score (execution) will be the vital responsibility of all the winners.  The party can never score if there is no teamwork.

  The captain in his opening speech said that they have to start work immediately in implementing the 8 strategies outlined or all the suggested reforms in the government, BN and the party.  To me, it is also fundamental that the captain needs to transform himself into a tiger before the ball game – no more being a cat, a mouse, a barking dog or an ‘eunuch’ – but be prepared to pounce anytime.  Thus it would be wise to package himself then of the party’s multi-etnics image; to change the public’s perception seriously in buying the ideology – to garner early support for the next general election.  For that I will not criticise if those non-Chinese candidates who lost in the election to be appointed back to the committee – after all it will be a good image, nothing like conferring a datukship to Sharukh Khan.

It will be a long journey with humps and potholes, may the team keep their fuel-injection engine burning whatever it takes.  It is time for Gerakan newly elected tigers to rise and put that ball back to the competitive playing field!

A Frog?

Since Datuk Zaid Ibrahim’s appointment as the Minister in the PM’s Department, I had been telling everyone that he is one of the UMNO leaders that I look up upon.  After reading his book ‘In Good Faith’ and spoken to him at the Bar Council, the more I was convinced about his integrity and personal dignity of his fair and democratic values; even after his resignation.  However his association with the opposition figures of late, has indeed create a suspicion in my perception.  One may say, that is the game of politics or he is doing the right thing to champion the national interest.  Fair enough but if a personal sex scandal can caused a downfall of a politician, what makes me think that by being another frog would not affect one’s integrity?  Can he accomplish his mission even if he join PR?  I wonder what happen to those frogs from Gerakan now?  Are they happy or regretted? (for that I personally witnessed Tan Kee Kwong carrying few reams of A4 paper bought from a stationery shop at Bangsar couple of weeks back – office boy?)

Some may say that nothing will change so long as BN is in office, as they have showed no real apetite to promote what the people want.  It is hard to ignore such arguments.  Nevertheless if Zaid is confident of fixing the problem and not being duped into supporting self-serving interest, he’ll has my blessing then.

Halle Berry vs Jessica Alba

 vs

Beauty is something everyone wants in life.  It is a universal belief that beauty can bring love and happiness.  However I am aware that physical beauty may impress all sorts of feelings of jealousy and attraction where spiritual beauty inspires change and hope.  Although Esquire named Berry as the ’sexiest woman alive’, I’ll still go for Alba – not racist but individual preference.  Above all we Malaysians of different colours, races, cultures and traditions coming together should be the most beautiful thing on earth.

  Ok fast forward, new BN leaderships, then what?  How do people of Malaysia feel about UMNO, Gerakan, MCA, MIC etc say one year from now?  Not discounting Anwar and the ‘kataks’ threat, I suspect there will be a mixture of feelings – as we know very much depending on UMNO’s performance.  The PM’s 5 missions before leaving office are an excellent objective provided it can be implemented effectively with the right people (thus the rotten apples must go).  Personally I am determine to say that whatever the reform is, in short it must be related to eradicating ethnic supremacy and encourage merit-based policy.  The leaders must educate and encourage we Malaysians to share and come together in a common pluralistic society – ie talk about fashion, education, curbing drugs/crimes (oh ya I must say that government MUST tighten the border security to prevent the rampant smuggling of guns, drugs and illegal entry) and medicare health issues etc.  The society (esp the Malays) must see the need to be competitive and stop worrying of Islam suppression (after all Art 153 is endorsed).  The Chinese and Indians must respect each other as human beings and see the needs and the values of others.  That is most valuable beauty of all!

Politicians must understand that there is no vested interest among most Malaysians generally to exploit their political pursuit but simply for an improved lifestlye.  In short component parties of BN must get rid of racial and money politics, then to emphasize on restoration of good governance and democracy as top priority.  Once that is achieved, we are truly sharing the nation and BN will be on the right track…

Thought of the day

   Sir Winston Churchill

“Continuous effort – not strength or intelligence – is the key to unlocking our potential”  -  Sir Winston Churchill.

“We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails”  -  Bertha Calloway.

Let bygones be bygones;

  Kali ini betul-betul cakap selamat jalan kepada Pak Lah as he confirms not contesting the next UMNO Presidency and will pass the PM’s baton to Dato Seri Najib.  So it is now Najib vs Anwar?  Let the show begins…

Building the Rule of Law

  The concept of the rule of law per se says nothing of the “justness” of the laws themselves, but simply how the legal system upholds the law.  In our country, one of the most important factor to revive its system is building the rule of law.  People of all ages, races, professions, status and backgrounds must be made aware of its significance.

So, how can I (or you) contribute to building the rule of law?  Reflect on the followings:

1.   Educate myself in the rule of law;

2.   Dispense justice without fear or favour;

3.   Never knowingly facilitate corruption;

4.   Work actively in political party, NGOs or social groups;

5.   Encourage and engage in pro bono work;

6.   Convince leadership of all organisations of the importance of the rule of law and

7.   Promote discussion and criticism.

Sounds like real uh?  Yes, I am serious – let our mind stimulates the action while the spirit is still willing.  Leave an impact and a clear conscience, to make our country a better and beautiful place to live in.

Hopeful Alliance

Did BN react to the signal of the March election?  Maybe.  Undisputably our current political upheaval is simply due to the arrogance, weak leadership, corrupted and incorrigible BN leaders.  Gerakan took it for granted, so it is not a question of whether it’s UMNO fault or not?  Conscience of BN?  Well, apparently the rakyats are not convinced.

The BN Supreme Council will be meeting with the PM at about 3.00pm this afternoon.  Anwar said whatever the outcome, it will makes no different as PR will eventually take over the government.  Mahathir believes that Pak Lah will not let go so easily.

 

Any different?  Honestly I do have little doubt albeit my argument with friends who are pro-PR.  Even with Najib taking over, what about MCA, Gerakan, MIC and the rest?  The cynics tell me that most of the current inept BN leaders are hopeless, it is a matter of changing those at the helm.  Yes I may be a passenger in a sinking ship, but I hope to do something to save it.  What if the captain is unwilling to cooperate?  What if all the passengers in the ship are selfish?  Rotten system?  No way back to regain the confidence of the people?  We need to be positive for the sake of our children and peaceful retirement.  Someone gotto to be different and take positive action.  Be the truth, nothing but the truth for the people’s interest as a whole.

Oh yes, more of the kataks’ status:

Economic woes, petrol down.

Globally ever since the collapse of Lehman Bros, the stock markets plunge badly and there are bailouts everywhere worrying that the worst is yet to come.  Back home the effect does not seem to affect us much due to the domestic political scenario.  Yesterday crude oil price was US$90.41 ie dropped about 38% since July 5 when the government increased 40% local petrol price.  Does Anwar really has the expertise to deal with such economic woes?  US is in trouble now so little can they help him then.  Will Pak Lah announce his intention not to contest in the UMNO presidency by tommorow?  Would he and his gang team up to join PR?  For those of you who idolise Anwar, go and put some incense or candle at his ’statue’ near Batu Caves.  Anyone for another bet in favour of Anwar confirming his take-over by 10/10?  My odd is to pay 38-1 if he succeeds.  My advice to Anwar is tell the King that he has more MPs than PM now as half of those in UMNO belongs to Najib…

Joss-stick or Songkok?

Another temple?  No, it is a mosque!  Designed to suit particularly the Chinese Muslims in Kelantan.  So no joss-stick, candle or incense please.  Open to public by next month.  If there is nothing wrong with its pagoda architecture design to be a place of worship for the Muslim, why did the judiciary abolished wearing of the wig in courts those days?  Many believed it was due to the Anglo-Saxon tradition which had the element of Christianity where in actual fact there is another reason for such practice.  It is the preception of the people whom many are wrongly influenced or guided by certain quarters of the politician in various issues of our multi-etnic society.  It is time for Malaysians of all races to grow and develop an open mind before believing all sort of political promises/agendas.  Generally Malaysians as a whole are a peaceful and caring family, it is the system that creates that perception or fear.

A Maverick

“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”

These were the words printed on the service sheet of the late J B Jeyaretnam’s funeral last Saturday, a poignant Biblical passage that at once capture the essence of his life and the legacy that he leaves behind.

I remember talking to the late Mr. JB Jeyeratnam back in the early 90s along the corridor of the JB High Court.  I believe he was already a bankrupt then.  Singapore lost a man whose life reflected the best social democrat in the country.  He devoted himself to his political life and forewent personal wealth to fight for democratic ideals.  He never cowed by a fight and gave up until his last breath.  I wonder how many politicians in Malaysia has such dignity to fight like him.  Was it worthwhile?

Peace be with him…

 

MAMMA MIA!

By now most of us should have heard of ‘Mamma Mia!’, a stage musical play that will be coming to Malaysia.  The musical includes one of my favourites:  “The Winner Takes It All”.  I often ponder the lyrics and trying to justify it.  Many ABBA lovers are looking forward to the show.  Similarly many Gerakan members are looking forward to the coming National Delegate Conference this weekend.  Thanks to the recent low profile of Anwar Ibrahim and Hari Raya holidays as well as the timing of Gerakan being the first component party to hold their election, as it had been a long time since many coverages in the newspaper, internet, tv and radio shared the party’s news.

Last Friday and Saturday I attended the nomination sessions for both the youth and main body of PGRM.  I also sat in unconventionally in one of the UMNO division camp discussion to plan for their coming election.  Subsequently I had my teh-tarik session with several lawyers and again talking about election but this time about the Bar Council 2009/2010 nomination.  I was playing my mind-game in analysing human behaviour and their inner desire to be elected at the party/council elections.  The fact that only the most influential, credible and capable (morally and immorally) will be elected.  Personal greatness has nothing to do with being exceptionally intelligent, rich, famous or politically successful.  It’s about being a person who exerts positive influence on others.  Voters from the public or political party will often make their decision either for some personal gain or the influence of that candidate’s personal greatness.  Sadly many would not consider the meritocracy of the candidates, it is just the bloody unhealthy culture in our society.  Tun Mahathir said yesterday those who use pressure, arm-twisting tactics and pull-back contracts are not democratic (as if he never used such methods before).

Unexpectedly just like Zahid Hamidi from UMNO, Ma Woey Chi from Gerakan decided to contest for the deputy president post.  Can both of them make it?  Many doubt so.  During breakfast on that Saturday morning, Ma told me that if Gerakan truly want to unlock the potential for greatness that lies within the party, they are going to make changes in the way they felt/think.  To be fair, everyone has their own potential and the right to unlock it.

  At the end of the weekend, after watching Tun’s VVIP chat at channel 301 and Dr. Koh’s forum at TV 2, I reached a conclusion that to a certain extent, some of the Gerakan members are focussing the energy of their lives on passionately seeking out emerging leaders, helping them develop the potential that lies within and find the pathway that leads for a possible lifetime.  Who are they then?  That depends on the quality and price of the menu.  Rumours of Dr. Koh or Tun LKY’s menu can only be of good quality if they are from the best restaurant.   I believe that building great organisation is a product of building great people.  Transcending hard work to produce superior results for the coming weekend will make the winner takes it all.  Cheers Gerakan!