Tun Dr Mahathir Remains In Stable Condition

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad remains in stable condition and continues to receive treatment at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the National Heart Institute (IJN) here following a wound debridement surgery a week ago.
The former prime minister's special officer, Sufi Yusoff, told Bernama Dr Mahathir's condition was stable, just as he had been yesterday.
Dr Mahathir's daughter, Datin Paduka Marina, had written in her blogsite that her father had had pudding, ice-cream, yoghurt and hot Milo for dinner last night.
She said the meal was high in calories but the doctor encourages it to enable Dr Mahathir build up his strength.
Dr Mahathir, 81, underwent the wound debridement surgery last Saturday, conducted by the same team of surgeons who had performed his second coronary bypass surgery on Sept 4.
The former prime minister had undergone his first coronary bypass operation at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital in 1989.

Tun Dr Mahathir still in ICU

Institut Jantung Negara, 28 September....YABhg Tun Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad continues to be warded at the Intensive Care Unit, five days into a second surgery for wound debridement last Saturday.
This is to allow doctors to closely monitor and observe his overall condition following admission for a second coronary bypass surgery on September 4.
While it may seem time consuming, doctors' focus will be on improving his nutritional status and gradually strengthening his muscles. IJN doctors are also concerned on ensuring that all his major organ functions remain stable for continued post surgical rehabilitation.
IJN will continue to issue statements on Tun Dr Mahathir's progress periodically.

tunku : May Allah speed his recovery

Tun Dr Mahathir making significant progress

KUALA LUMPUR: Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is continuing to make significant progress, four days after his second surgical procedure on Saturday for wound debridement.
According to a statement released by the National Heart Institute (IJN), Dr Mahathir is now breathing on his own and doctors are focusing on post surgical rehabilitation.
These include physiotherapy to his chest to optimise respiratory function and exercises to his arms and legs to build muscle strength.
Dr Mahathir continues to be warded in the intensive care unit.
His daughter Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir, meanwhile, wrote in her blog that the former Prime Minister "looked pretty good, for someone in ICU".
"Apparently he spent time last night grilling the doctors. I'm not sure many patients get to do that but as he sometimes like to sniffily remind us, 'I'm a doctor too, you know!"
"Isn't there some adage about doctors making bad patients?" she wrote, adding that she refer to think of a patient with personality as one who's definitely on the mend.

ROAD SAFETY CAMPAIGN

PANDU CERMAT JIWA SELAMAT

Tun Mahathir stable after 72-hr mark

KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - Tun Mahathir Mohamad was stable after emerging from a critical three-day period following surgery for a chest infection, an aide said on Wednesday.
Tun Mahathir, 82, who ruled Malaysia for 22 years until 2003, went back into the operating theatre at Kuala Lumpur's National Heart Institute around midnight last Saturday to have infected tissue cut out of his chest following a recent heart bypass.
"He continues to be stable," the aide told Reuters in an e-mail message.
The 72 hours immediately after the operation were the crucial period in Mahathir's post-operative care, the hospital had said earlier.
Tun Mahathir went through a light physiotherapy routine of deep breathing and muscle toning exercises on Tuesday, his eldest daughter Marina said on her Internet blog.
"Dad's general condition is better and he's alert and cooperative," she added.
Mahathir underwent a quadruple bypass on Sept. 4, his second heart operation since 1989. It followed two heart attacks over the past 10 months.

Lawyers march to PM’s office

PUTRAJAYA: A group of about 1,000 lawyers gathered at the steps of the Palace of Justice here to march to the Prime Minister’s office.
The march, organised by the Bar Council, was to hand over a memorandum to the Prime Minister's office, calling for a royal commission to investigate the authenticity of a video clip showing a senior lawyer purportedly brokering the appointment of judges with a senior judge.
Several buses ferrying lawyers from Kuala Lumpur turned up for the march.


Government sets up three-man panel headed by retired judge
PUTRAJAYA: A three-man special independent panel headed by a retired top judge has been formed to investigate and determine the authenticity of a video clip showing a senior lawyer purportedly brokering the appointment of judges.
The panel’s terms of reference include holding a full inquiry, analysing the evidence and making the necessary conclusion.
The panel comprises former Chief Judge of Malaya Tan Sri Haidar Mohd Noor as chairman, National Service Council chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye and former Court of Appeal judge Datuk Mahadev Shankar.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who announced the formation of the panel yesterday, said the findings would be submitted to the Government and made public.
“The Government decided to set up the panel in view of speculation and allegations related to the video clip that could affect the credibility and integrity of the judiciary,” he said at a press conference.
“The panel will also work closely with the Anti-Corruption Agency and police (the two law enforcement agencies also investigating the case) to determine the authenticity of the video clip,” he added.
Najib said the panel members were of impeccable character and there was no reason for the public to protest over their appointment.
“I personally called the members and they agreed to be in the panel,” he said, adding that Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Sidek Hasan would assist the panel in carrying out its duties.
“They will do whatever is necessary and get the full support of the various government agencies,” he said when asked if those implicated in the video would be interviewed by the panel.
“The key thing is their findings and we (the Government) will take it from there.
“I don’t have to go into too much detail, let the panel decide on how it wants to proceed,” he said.
On the Bar Council’s planned march at Putrajaya today, Najib said “that’s up to the Bar Council and the authorities to decide.”
“I am confident that the police are up to the task. I am sure the police would be able to handle the situation,” he said.
He said the setting up of the panel was not due to the Bar Council’s request for an inquiry, but out of the concerns of the public about the integrity of the country’s judiciary system.
“At this moment, there is no intention of setting up a Royal Commission of Inquiry but the independent panel will suffice,” he added.

tunku : the matter is being investigate, an independent body had been set up, so why the bar council want to march, want to protest about what???? let the investigation finish then if you are not satisfied or what then you have some ground to protest/march. i guess our bar council has no work to do and it's manipulated by the opposition. those lawyers who marched today are the "LOYAR BURUK" type.

Tun Dr M conscious, stable after 2nd op

UPDATED
Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has started doing physiotherapy exercises, three days after his second surgical procedure for wound debridement.
His daughter, Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir said in her blog http://www.rantingsbymm.blogspot.com/ that he was being given deep breathing and muscle toning exercises.
“Not exactly lifting weights but the post-op equivalent on it,” she wrote.
“So, it is all good. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”
Dr Mahathir underwent his second coronary bypass surgery on three weeks ago at the National Heart Institute (IJN) and the second procedure was on Saturday night for wound infection.
She added her mother Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali said Dr Mahathir’s general condition was better.
“He is alert and co-operative. That means he is not giving the doctors a hard time,” Marina said.
“His heart is ticking away strongly as is every organ in that wonderful ecosystem we call the body. Still trying to build energy through nutrients.”


KUALA LUMPUR: Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is conscious and doctors are gradually easing up on his support medication.
A statement from the National Heart Institute (IJN) Tuesday said Dr Mahathir continued to be in stable condition, three days after his second surgical procedure for wound debridement.
The surgery was performed Saturday night for wound infection. He underwent his second coronary bypass surgery three weeks ago.
“IJN doctors are happy that his vital parameters continue to be stable,” the statement said.
Visitors are still confined to family members only.
His daughter Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir when contacted said her father was being fed high calorie nutrients and slowly “weaned off” the ventilator, which is necessary for patients who have undergone major surgery.
She wrote in her blog that her mother Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali said Dr Mahathir was more awake and alert.
“She holds his hands and tells him to try and break hers and 'he almost did!',” she wrote.
“As another positive sign, she says he is displaying signs of impatience. Good old cranky Dad!”
She also wrote the possible misinterpretation of the word “support” in an IJN statement was one reason that led to the nasty rumours on his health condition, where some people took to mean “life support”.
However, she said her father was able to breathe by himself, but not enough to fully oxygenate his lungs which was why he was on a ventilator.
She asked Malaysians to continue praying for him.

Tun Dr M's condition remains stable

KUALA LUMPUR: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's condition has remained stable after his follow-up surgery to treat a wound infection on Saturday.
The former Prime Minister is under routine post surgery support in the IJN's ICU, according to his aide Sufi Yusoff.
Sufi hoped that people offer prayers for Dr Mahathir's recovery rather than spread rumours about his condition.
He said the IJN is a responsible institution and that doctors who are looking after Dr Mahathir have always been forthcoming in giving information about his state of health.
Dr Mahathir underwent a three-hour long surgical wound debridement on Saturday night, night, 18 days after his second heart bypass operation.

Tun Dr M Has To Have Rehabilitative Treatment Again

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has to have rehabilitative treatment again after having undergone a debridement on Saturday owing to a wound infection.
After having undergone the three-hour surgery, he is under treatment at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the National Heart Institute (IJN) and is in stable condition and on routine post-surgery support, said his daughter Datin Paduka Marina.
Debridement is the surgical excision of dead, devitalised or contaminated tissue and removal of foreign matter from a wound. It is said to increase the rate of wound healing.
"Alhamdulillah (praise be to God), he (Dr Mahathir) is stable and his condition is heartening. He is conscious, and able to hear and respond well.
"However, he has to undergo rehabilitative treatment again, similar to what he had been through after the earlier (coronary bypass) surgery (on Sept 4)," she told reporters when approached at IJN, here.
Meanwhile, Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamad, Deputy Finance Minister II Datuk Dr Awang Adek Hussin and Kelantan Umno Liaison Committee Chairman Datuk Annuar Musa visited Dr Mahathir at the ICU.
Dr Mahathir, 81, who underwent his second coronary bypass surgery on Sept 4 at the IJN, was transferred back to the ICU 10 days later. He had been placed in the normal Bunga Raya Ward on Sept 12.
The former prime minister underwent his first coronary bypass surgery, at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital, on Jan 24 1989 following a heart attack.


tunku : syukur alhamdulillah tun in stable condition as confirmed by Sufi and Marina.To those spreading rumours , i hope you will get rumours your loves one are dead, then only you know what the pain is.

Tun Dr Mahathir in surgery for infection

PETALING JAYA: Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had another surgery on Saturday night because of a wound infection. The surgical wound debridement was carried out on Dr Mahathir at 11.30pm on Saturday night and was completed at 2.30am Sunday, according to a statement from the National Heart Institute (IJN).
"He is currently stable and has been put under routine post-cardiac surgery support," the statement said. The procedure was done by the same surgical team, including Tan Sri Dr Yahaya Awang, that performed Dr Mahathir's second coronary bypass surgery on Sept 4.
Dr Mahathir is expected to remain on surgery support for at least 36 hours for post-operative care, the statement said.
IJN doctors and nurses are monitoring and observing him in the intensive care unit and the statement said the next 72 hours would be a crucial period in his post-operative care.
When contacted, his daughter Datin Paduka Marina Mahathir said her father was doing fine and was under sedation.
"He is a strong and determined man. And it is all in the mental attitude.
"He is starting off from a different point from previously when he was healthy. Now, he is already weak and that was the worry," she said.
Marina added the family was doing all right although it felt like they "were going through the entire surgery again with less time to prepare."
Her blog posting, rantingsbymm.blogspot.com, on Sunday chronicled the episode where she said it was hard to not get emotional but the family kept a brave face for her father's sake as he was wheeled in for the procedure.
She also wrote that she did "downplay" Dr Mahathir's condition in the past week to make it sound better than it was because she did not want to cause worry while the doctors tried to find the source of the infection.
They figured it out on Saturday afternoon, she added and were informed by Dr Yahaya at 3am Sunday that the source of infection had been removed.
"So, please do not worry. He got through the operation okay. His heart is fine. Now it is a matter of recovery once again," she wrote.
Marina also asked Malaysians to pray for her father's speedy recovery.

tunku : let us all pray harder for Tun's health. The family had hide his real health condition from us but i understand why.YA ALLAH, SEMBUHKANLAH HAMBAMU YG BERNANAMA TUN DR MAHATHIR MOHAMAD DAN PANJANGKANLAH USIA BELIAU.AMIN.

Tun Dr M's Appetite Improving, Having Meals On His Own

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 21 (Bernama) -- Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's appetite is improving and is eating meals on his own, the National Heart Institute (IJN) said today.
It said doctors are focusing on intensive exercises on his arms and legs, as well as physiotherapy to optimise his respiratory functions and to increase muscle strength.
"His vital parameters continue to be stable," it said in a statement.
Dr Mahathir would continue to be under observation at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), it added.
Dr Mahathir, 81, who underwent his second coronary bypass surgery on Sept 4 at the premier heart centre, was transferred back to ICU 10 days later.
He came out of the ICU to the normal Bunga Raya Ward on Sept 12.

Profile Of The Beast At Large

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 21 (Bernama) -- Sexual satisfaction, for this "category" of people, is derived by an act of killing.
It also satisfies their consuming need for control over life and death.
Simply put, killing offers pleasure and a release to the psychopath.
Behavioural scientists say psychopaths kill because they want to. And more disturbingly, because they like it.
Nurin Jazmin Jazimin, in all probability, is an unfortunate victim of a psychopath killer on the loose.
Police investigations and post-mortem revealed the eight-year-old was subjected to torture and sexual savagery at the hands of a psychopath.
One can only imagine the horrors Nurin might have undergone at the hands of the sadist who held her in captivity and tortured her for about a month.
And, when he sought pleasure and a release, the psychopath murdered Nurin.
During the period of Nurin's captivity, the psychopath must have felt "full control" over Nurin. Her repeated beggings and pleas to allow her to return home, probably only soothed the ego of the sadist.
Again, who else but a psychopath, would have the audacity to coolly walk with a sports bag containing the girl's body, and place in a shophouse, in full view of the public.
The psychopath is merely displaying a lack of fear for the authorities.
It is akin to challenging the authorities. The psychopath is saying: "I have the power. I do what I please."
According to a book "TRUE CRIME - Serial Killers", by the Editors of Time-Life Books, psychopaths lack a vital component of the human personality - which most people take for granted.
Conscience.
Either they have no conscience or their conscience is too weak to inhibit the violence they commit.
Psychopaths kill without guilt and without remorse. While no one knows for certain what creates a psychopathic killer, many experts believe the truth lies in a combination of genetics and environment.
The book says:
"The most frightening ability of psychopath killers is their seemingly normal, intelligent and charming self, and the ability to live unnoticed among fellow humans.
"Beneath such a surface, two traits are almost always present in psychopath killers - sexual abnormality and a consuming need for power."
While a police manhunt has been mounted for the psychopath, in a nutshell, this may be the profile of the beast at large.

tunku : the public at large should cooperate and find these psychopaths but it seems quite impossible to catch or to identify them as they look normal and some are intelligent.they should be DEMOLISHED from our soil.it's so sad, they attack under age group that can't fight them, what pleasure it brings to them??

NURIN IS DEAD - AL FATIHAH

DNA tests: Body found in bag is Nurin

PETALING JAYA: The police have said that DNA tests on the body found stuffed in a sports bag on Monday in Petaling Jaya show that it is that of missing girl Nurin Jazlin Jazimin.
Petaling Jaya OCPD ACP Arjunaidi Mohamed on Thursday said that DNA tests have so far indicated that the body found in a shophouse at Jalan PJS1, Petaling Jaya Utama is that of Nurin, 8, who had been missing since Aug 20.
Police are waiting for confirmation of the DNA tests.
At Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Nurin's father Jazimin Abdul Jalil, 33, a taxi driver still denied the body was that of his daughter, reports BERNAMA.
"I am Nurin's father ... I know my daughter better than anyone else. My heart is saying the body is not my daughter.
"If police ask me to take the body, I will accept, I will perform the funeral rites and bury it. But I want the police to pursue the search for Nurin because I know Nurin is still safe out there," he said, speaking to reporters outside the HKL mortuary.
Jazimin added that he was sure the body was not Nurin because of the teeth and the scar that Nurin had.
According to Jazimin, Nurin's teeth did not have gaps between them and she also had a scar on her thigh.
Nurin's mother Norazian Bistaman, 35, said she was ready to accept what the authorities tell her.
"What else can I say. The DNA test shows she is my daughter. I will accept the will of God.
"As a mother, I still hope the body is not my daughter's. Which mother will accept the reality that her daughter was raped and killed brutally.
"Only God knows the extent of my sadness and grief," she said in tears.
Norazian said this year's Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations would be the most joyous and meaningful in her life in the event Nurin was found safe and sound.
"In fact, we've already bought Nurin's Hari Raya dress and I will patiently wait for her return," she added.

tunku : so sad this thing happens in malaysia.

JPJ postpones imlementation of eKesihatan

PUTRAJAYA: The implementation of a new health screening process for commercial vehicle drivers using eKesihatan panel clinics has been postponed indefinitely.
Road Transport Department director-general Datuk Ahmad Mustapha Abdul Rashid said in a statement that the Cabinet had on Wednesday decided to postpone the programme, which was scheduled to kick-off on Oct 1.
When contacted, he said he had received a message in the afternoon to make a statement on the matter.
"I do not know the details (of the decision). The Minister (Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy) is not around so I don't know the details apart from the statement that I have been asked to make.
"The present system, using the manual form for health screening purposes, remains," he said.
On Sept 10, JPJ had announced the implementation of eKesihatan, where commercial vehicle derivers would be tested for drugs under a medical check-up scheme when they renew or apply for new licences.
The new scheme would also see the drivers being checked for other problems like alcoholism, drug addiction and cardiovascular and mental illness.
The move was supposed to affect more than 700,000 public services vehicle (PSV) licence, goods driving licence (GDL) and conductor licence (KON) holders.
JPJ deputy director-general Solah Mat Hassan when announcing this had said the scheme was aimed to ensure that only medically-fit drivers were behind the wheel of commercial vehicles.
Under the scheme, the results would be electronically transmitted to JPJ via a government-appointed gateway provider, Supremme Systems Sdn Bhd, while payments and registration for the tests would have to be done at post offices before a driver proceeded to the appointed panel clinic.
A total of 611 panel clinics nationwide had been appointed under the new programme and those applying or renewing their goods driving, passenger service vehicle and conductors licences have to pay RM80 for the test.
However, the scheme received a lot of protest from doctors, the Malaysian Medical Council as well as owners and drivers of commercial vehicles nationwide.
They claimed the fees were exorbitant and questioned the appointment of Supremme Systems as they felt such a scheme did not need a third party to operate.
Chan, who is Transport Minister, is in Canada to bid for Malaysia to be elected as a council member of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

MMC: Scheme introduced too hastily

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) is the latest medical body to voice concern about the legitimacy of the eKesihatan scheme, saying that it had been introduced too hastily and raised various ethical issues.
Its president Tan Sri Dr Ismail Merican said yesterday that proper consultation with the Health Ministry and other medically relevant professional bodies should have been done.
This was because the new scheme seemed to place restrictions on the duties and responsibilities of a medical practitioner by dictating who a vehicle driver could consult and whose findings would not be accepted by the Road Transport Department (JPJ).
In a strongly worded statement, he said the MMC had the exclusive right to register medical practitioners in the country under the Medical Act.
Once registered and possessing the annual practising certificate, the practitioner had the “sole prerogative” to examine, diagnose, investigate and treat within the parameters of his training and legal framework.
Any certificate, notification, report or document signed by the practitioner was evidence that he actually examined the person, he said.
“As the custodian of medical practice in this country, the council is very concerned with any move to place any restrictions or conditions on the practice of any registered practitioner,” he said.

tunku : it's good to have all the commercial vehicle drivers to go for medical check-up but the point here is why have to go through third party(Supreme System Sdn Bhd). Who owns this company? this company will just make money without doing much work and the drivers have to bear for it. It's believe that they got 5 years contract and will generate the company some RM135million. If they feel that the integrity of panel clinics can still be questioned,revoke their license.If a driver is test positive with drugs, just check from which clinic he got cleared.Investigates and if found that the doctor had issue a false medical report, revoke the doctor's license. anyway they medical check-up be an annually affair, so if the driver wants to go for a check-up, may be they'll stop to take drugs for sometimes to clear the check-up, but i believe the check-up is still very important as to know whether the driver is fit to drive.

No Petrol Price Hike This Year, Govt To Honour Promise - Najib

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 18 (Bernama) -- The Government will not increase petrol price this year despite global oil prices hitting US$80 (RM280) per barrel last week, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak assured today.
"Whatever we promised, we will honour our commitment for the price of petrol...gas is another issue,' he told reporters after chairing the 21st National Forestry Council meeting.
In February last year, the government raised the retail price of petrol and diesel by 30 sen a litre and liquefied petroleum gas by 30 sen a kilogramme, with a promise to the people that there would be no further raise in the retail price of petroleum products this year.
However, global oil price has been rising steadily, hitting US$80 per barrel last week, fuelling speculations oil prices would touch US$100 (RM350) by year-end.
Najib said the increase in prices of commodities and foodstuff was a global phenomenon and was not peculiar to Malaysia alone.
"It is a global concern owing to certain factors, so we need to take into account and make adjustments in this matter.
"The government is sensitive to this issue...that's why it has protected the consumers by providing RM14 billion in petrol subsidy a year.
"This is the subsidy and tax exemption that we give. This is government's surety...we subsidise people's money for the people," he said.
He said Petronas, the national oil corporation, had paid RM13 billion in oil subsidy.
"That's the responsibility borne by Petronas all this while. So, it's absurd to say the government is insensitive to the people's interests. Our subsidy burden is huge.
"If we add these two subsidies (the government and Petronas) for petrol alone, it amounts to RM27 billion," he said when responding to press reports today that Petronas was pushing for an upward revision in gas prices.
"I don't know, I don't want to pre-empt whatever decision the government will make (on this issue)."
Energy, Water and Communications Minister Datuk Seri Dr Lim Keng Yaik said yesterday a Cabinet Committee chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi would decide on Petronas' proposal on Monday.
Lim, however, assured the people that despite the heavy reliance by Tenaga Nasional Bhd and Independent Power Producers on gas, there would be no increase in electricity tariffs.
On spiralling prices of goods, Najib said it can only be reduced with higher subsidy and production of goods as the price hike was a global trend.
"There is not much we can do...the government is doing whatever it can, but world prices have moved so high, up to a point we have insulated consumers by fixing the prices of these commodities.
"But there comes a point when you fix a price but it is not realistic, then there would be a shortage of goods. So we have to manage the situation the best we can," he added.


tunku : we understand that the government is doing it best and hope that it will continue doing it best o control the oil price as if the price is up again, there would be millions who will suffer by the increase of petrol prices as everything single item price would increase again.the government should really think of how to overcome this matter urgently and one of the possible way is to strengthen our ringgit value more.

Tun Dr M progressing well in recovery

PETALING JAYA: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is "progressing well" in his recovery at the intensive care unit of National Heart Institute (IJN).
"He's fine. A bit less chatty than Sunday, but he's ok. His progress is good, and doctors are quite happy with how things are going," said his daughter Marina Mahathir when contacted Monday.
She said doctors were still monitoring her father's condition.
When asked if there was any word on when he could be discharged, she replied:
"No, not yet. They (doctors) want to be really, really cautious and have everything cleared before they let him out again,"
Dr Mahathir, 82, who had a second coronary bypass operation on Sept 4, was transferred back to the intensive care unit of the National Heart Institute (IJN) on Friday night, to enable doctors to monitor his overall condition.
Marina, who had just returned from Hong Kong on Sunday, also said her father had given her "orders" to buy persimmons and melons.
"He was asking for the melons last night, he took some of it," she said.
She added that no visitors were allowed still, but there have been few who turned up and signed the visitor book.
Various people, including former Philippines President Fidel Ramos, Thai Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont, Singapore Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, Libyan President Muammar Gadaffi and Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, have sent emails and letters.
Those who wish to follow the former premier's recovery can check rantingsbymm.blogspot.com

Tun Dr M Reported Stable In ICU

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 16 (Bernama) -- Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is reported to be in stable condition at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the National Heart Institute (IJN) here.
He was transferred back to the ICU from the Bunga Raya Ward, a normal ward, on Friday to enable doctors to observe him closely.
Dr Mahathir's daughter, Datin Paduka Marina, when approached by Bernama at IJN today, said her father was transferred back to the ICU as a precautionary measure to prevent any infection.
"His condition is stable. The doctors say Tun (Dr Mahathir) will remain longer in the ICU due to the need to prevent any infection.
"The doctors have imposed no restriction on Tun's food to enable him to gain strength," she said.
Marina said that for the moment only close relatives were allowed to call on Dr Mahathir so as to reduce the risk of infection.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil and her husband, Datuk Dr Mohamed Salleh Ismail, were seen at the IJN lobby today after they had met Dr Mahathir's wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali.
Dr Mahathir, 81, had been moved to the Bunga Raya Ward on Wednesday after having undergone his second coronary bypass operation the previous day at the IJN.
He had undergone his first such surgery at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital in 1989.

Tun Dr Mahathir Back In ICU For Post surgery Check-up

Kuala Lumpur,Sept 15(Bernama)-- Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is back in the ICU of IJN,his special aide, Sufi Yusuff said Saturday.
He said the transfer was a normal procedure to allows doctors to conduct investigation and close observation of his overall condition after surgery.
"He was stable overnight and was continuing with light exercises",he said in a statement.
Tun Dr Mahathir was transfered to the Bunga Raya ward , a normal ward on Wednesday, is expected to remain in the ICU for continued monitoring, he added.

tunku : according to Marina Mahathir in her blog Tun had a slight fever so had to go back in there so that he wouldn't be at risk of more infection.on this holy month of Ramadhan let us pray to Allah that he will give the best of health to Tun Dr Mahathir and may he be with us for a long long time to come.AMIN.

Malaysian riot stirs fears of opposition clashes

KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - A recent riot in Malaysia has raised fears of more clashes ahead of widely expected early elections as parties jostle for position and the opposition fights curbs on rallies.
The opposition, long ignored by the government-controlled mass media, is struggling to get its message across to Malaysian voters and political analysts say the ruling coalition will seize every chance to thwart their opponents.
"So, given that scenario, there will probably be future standoffs," said Lee Hock Guan, of Singapore's Institute of Southeast Asian Studies. "Campaigning is very crucial to winning hearts and minds."
Changes to electoral rules have progressively cut down the opposition's room for manoeuvre, from the banning of open air rallies to curbs on holding indoor political meetings outside of election campaigns, Lee told Reuters.
Last week, two members of the Islamist opposition Parti Islam se-Malaysia (PAS) were seriously wounded when police opened fire to disperse rioters at a rally demanding electoral reform in the northern state of Terengganu.
"They do not want our message to get across to the masses," said PAS official Mustafa Ali, who called the violence the first of its kind in Malaysia. "They will try every avenue to stop us."
PAS, a major opposition force in Malaysia's northeast until it lost elections in 2004, wants to turn the multi-religious country into an Islamic state.
Malaysia's opposition parties are split along racial lines, but are united in complaining the electoral system is rigged against them.
Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who is widely expected to call general elections by early next year, called the riot a desperate attempt by the opposition to gain political mileage.
"Now they see that the state has developed in a short period and they are trying to do nasty things to tarnish the government and the police. This is their brand of politics," the New Straits Times newspaper quoted Abdullah as saying.
One analyst said the government could exploit similar events to paint the opposition as unable to rein in supporters predisposed to violence, and so burnish its own image.
"I would not be terribly surprised to see further such incidents just to keep everyone on edge, 'justify' additional curbs, and make the ruling coalition seem the only safe choice yet again," said U.S. academic Meredith Weiss, a specialist in Malaysian society and politics.
Although Abdullah has permitted wider media coverage of contentious issues of race and religion than did his predecessor Mahathir Mohamad during his 22-year tenure, his government moves swiftly to condemn views it disapproves of.
The greater leeway for comment looked more like a strategy to co-opt political opponents in ways that do not threaten Abdullah's ruling coalition rather than commitment to fostering vigorous public debate, one analyst said.
"Malaysia is at a fork in the road," said Garry Rodan, director of the Asia Research Centre at Murdoch University in Australia.
"The real question is how genuine is the willingness to allow debate if the views expressed are allowed to be expressed only so long as the government is not uncomfortable with them."
The government could make things tougher for the opposition by denying it permits to hold public meetings, or by launching vicious attacks on it in newspapers, radio and television, political analyst Chandra Muzaffar said.
"As the elections get closer, I see the ruling coalition imposing more and more restrictions, more and more hurdles, in the path of the opposition, and this has often happened in the past," Muzaffar added.


tunku : first of all, i wanted to say to the australian and singaporean commentators
to look at their own back yard before pocking nose at others.
coming back to the riot issue, the guilty party was PAS, if they had not attacked the police first, the incident would not took place. we just hope that in future they'll behave and the police too wont take harsh action against them( firing live bullet) afterall, we are all the same people.
as for the "ceramah" issue, i think the government should not stop the opposition in giving speech etc. they too need fair chances of winning the election as we knows that the government controls everything, the mainstream newspaper,tv,radio etc all control by government and nothing is aired which says bad thing about the government. i hope the government will be brave enough to let the opposition gets their right. Opposition can never defeat BN (current scenario) and will never rule,insyaallah but why BN is so scared to let them fight their rights.the public will gives more votes to the government if they allow opposition equal chance as they will know that how BN can protect them not the opposition. by stoping the opposition, the public will have sympathy towards them and some may even vote for them just because of that issue.i still cant forgive to the boy who burnt down our flag.the current reward on his head is RM5000, it's too low, increase it to RM 50,000, i believe he'll get caught faster.

Tun Dr M Moves To Normal Ward, Walks Unaided

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 13 (Bernama) -- Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, recovering from a heart bypass operation, was Thursday transferred to the Bunga Raya Ward from the Intensive Care Unit of the National Heart Institute (IJN).
The former prime minister is now able to walk unaided, is consuming normal diet and is doing more vigorous chest and mobility exercises, the IJN said in a statement.
It said Dr Mahathir was moved to the normal ward at 11am but visitation remains limited to only immediate family members.
The IJN noted that nine days into his post-bypass surgery, doctors were happy that the 81-year-old former prime minister had made good progress while in the ICU.
Dr Mahathir successfully underwent his second coronary bypass surgery on Sept 4. His first was on Jan 24, 1989 following a heart attack.

RAMADHAN MUBARAK

KEPADA MUSLIMIN MUSLIMAT,
SELAMAT MENJALANKAN IBADAH PUASA
SEMOGA PUASA DAN SEGALA IBADAH KITA DIBERKATI DAN DIRAHMATI ALLAH SWA.

PAS launches new campaign to woo non-Muslims

KUALA LUMPUR: PAS will make another attempt to woo non-Muslims by launching its PAS For All campaign.
Party deputy president Datuk Nasharuddin Mat Isa said the party was not only for Malays or Muslims but cuts across communal and religious lines.
“The Quran teaches us to respect each other’s religious beliefs. So if it is the welfare of the Chinese that needs to be championed, we will be there. If it’s Indians who need help, we will come forward. And it is the same with the Malays,” he said yesterday.
The launch at the PAS office in Jalan Raja Laut started with the Malay kompang, Chinese lion dance, followed by the Indian miruthengam instrument.
Later at the press conference, Nasharuddin was asked about the fears of non-Muslims about PAS’ push for an Islamic state.
“We are explaining substance rather than debating on the form. Substance is about justice, good governance, free and fair treatment of all citizens,” he said.
He believed “the mood is there” for a change, adding that the party had been doing a lot to woo non-Muslim votes.
The party has also set up PAS Chinese clubs and PAS Indian clubs to help spread the message.


tunku : infront of muslim they said the other way round, non muslim is satan,and we(pas) cooperate with them like umno we too becomes satan.voting non muslim will end you up in hell.pas always pas,LIAR LIAR LIAR

Public fed diet of updates on Dr Mahathir

THERE was quite a bit of curiosity when it was reported that Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had roti canai and high-energy milk for breakfast at the National Heart Institute (IJN) where he is recovering from heart surgery.
What on earth is high-energy milk, someone had asked. Actually it was less about the milk than the fact that it was Dr Mahathir consuming it.
The former premier has always been a newsmaker and the intense interest among so many ordinary Malaysians about his coronary bypass and ongoing recovery shows that he makes news regardless of whether he is on his feet or flat on his back on an operating table.
His progress at IJN has been as closely watched-over like one would a relative or old friend. Yesterday, it was reported that after breakfast he had his first real shower and walked gingerly around his bed.
Mundane information? Not when you are the iconic Dr Mahathir.
The news was probably lapped up by people out there for as someone said, “Wah, already up and about.”
The latest picture showed him sitting up, still a bit wan and frail around the edges but looking real good for an 82-year-old who had undergone his second bypass.
Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali who was seated beside her husband wore a mega-watt smile that said it all. The lady is the real champ because every time her husband is admitted into hospital, she packs her bags, moves into the ward and is there by his side till the day he is discharged.
The family had kept news about his operation pretty much under wraps. No one suspected it especially given the way he enjoyed himself at the 50th Merdeka parade, then just two days from his date with his heart surgeons.
Looking rather handsome in a grey suit and red tie, he had tapped his feet to the music and waved his flag like everyone else.
He could not have missed the thunderous applause when his name was mentioned and especially when the floats displaying his achievements as the “Era of Modernisation” went past the grand stand.
The slogan was no boast for the floats were almost overflowing with all the symbols of his achievements – the national car, KL Tower, Putrajaya, Twin Towers and so on.
Even Dr Mahathir could not stifle his amusement as the reminders of his years in power rumbled by. It was little wonder he had postponed his operation till after the Merdeka bash. He had every reason to be there – 50 years of independence, 22 of which was under his leadership.
Doctors had asked him to take it easy last year after he suffered the first of his three heart attacks that was to lead to his recent surgery.
According to his son Datuk Mukhriz, doctors had noted that although Dr Mahathir’s chronological age was then 81, his biological age was only 65. On top of that, tests showed that he had an unusual level of growth hormones.
Still the family must have been deeply worried, something apparent from his first-born Datuk Paduka Marina’s blog.
Marina has the unique advantage of being a ringside witness, or should we say bedside witness, to all this and her blog has been a well of insight into her father’s recovery.
But sometimes a picture speaks more than words can say and many liked the snapshot taken a day after the operation showing her father’s hand resting lightly over her own palm with the caption, “Me and dad holding hands, 3.30pm”.
Father and daughter have the same shapely hand with tapered fingers. Likewise, the picture of his tycoon son Datuk Mokhzani’s clean-shaven head, an act in fulfilment of his pledge to shave off his hair if his father got through the operation.
Marina also posted a video from a well-wisher that showed photo clips of her father, accompanied by Elvis’ “Wooden Heart”. It was so cute, yet so touching.
In the Parliament lobby, on the day of his operation on Sept 4, many MPs had approached reporters for news about the former premier.
The 2008 Budget was then just days away and for some of them, Dr Mahathir’s health seemed on par with the significance of the Budget.
“Will the Budget go on if anything happens to Tun?” one of them had asked. No one even wanted to imagine the scenario.
But, thankfully, the operation went smoothly, the Budget was successfully tabled and Dr Mahathir is on the road to recovery.
And as Malaysia’s most famous heart patient continues to recover, he will have to accept the public inquisitiveness over his health. And that includes whatever he may be having for breakfast next.

Opposition supporters too much

see the picture above, what do you feel as a malaysian? is this an act from malaysian? yes it is. there are pas/keadilan supporter who burned down our flag during riot in Kuala Trengganu on the 8th Sept 2007. We get so angry when outsiders burnt down our flag but here we burn it ourselves. This boy in the picture above should be hunt down and hang him by his balls.

Tax payer money wasted

Agencies must explain irregularities

PETALING JAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak wants the relevant ministries and government agencies mentioned in the Auditor-General's report to explain why their spendings were not in order.
“They must explain. They will have to answer,” said Najib when asked about the public fund mismanagement cases contained in the 2006 report.
Asked if the ministry secretaries-general were empowered to deal directly with suppliers, Najib said they were not and
that dealings must be done through open tenders.
Najib spoke to the press after playing in the Business Times Golf Invitation 2007 at the Saujana Golf and Country Club.


‘Public will avoid paying taxes if wastage continues’

PETALING JAYA: Government officers must spend money wisely or risk having Malaysians think of creative ways to avoid paying taxes because they are fed up with the mismanagement of public funds – such as a ministry paying RM224 for a RM32 set of screwdrivers.
“If the money is honestly spent to make the country better, tax payers will pay because they know it is being put to good use.
“Taxes come from the sweat and blood of Malaysians. If there is dishonesty and wastage of public funds, it riles the public,” said Transparency International Malaysia president Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam.
He added if the wastage continued, there would even come a time when taxpayers would think of ways to avoid paying taxes because they were no longer convinced the money would be put to good use as pledged by the administration.
Navaratnam was commenting on the 2006 Auditor-General’s Report outlining a slew of cases involving public fund mismanagement.
From paying RM1,146 for a set of pens costing RM160 to forking out RM5,700 for a car jack worth RM50, the list is long and sometimes shocking.
He commended Auditor-General Tan Sri Ambrin Buang and his team for diligently uncovering the mismanagement, saying it showed the department acted without fear and favour.
“Going by what was reported, it cannot be blamed if the public finds it hard to swallow the integrity policy advocated by the Government,” said Navaratnam.
He said investigations must be conducted and government officers found to have wasted public funds must be duly punished.
Consumer watchdog Fomca advisor Prof Hamdan Adnan said public fund mismanagement was a hot topic among Malaysians.
“The Anti-Corruption Agency must step in. It is very fishy when officers are allowed to purchase a car jack for RM5,700 when it is only worth RM50,” said Hamdan.
He also wanted to know if the Government would investigate why the Youth and Sports Ministry’s secretary-general had signed off 11 contracts beyond his authority.
“The Government is very wrong if it assumes the public will just accept the wastage and not be angry. The leaders keep saying the rakyat must spend wisely, but where is the leadership by example?” asked Hamdan.

tunku : not only in sport and youth ministry money are wasted but almost in all ministries and agencies.if the auditors really dig into the accounts there are millions of ringgit wasted every year by purchasing at a very higher price.the supplier doesn't earn much, they do but reasonably fair. the only problem is with the purchaser, they jack up the price.e.g the suplliers sells a pen for RM0.80 but in the invoice it's RM2.50.the difference of RM1.70 goes to ........ pocket.he supplier earns 20 cents from a pen but somebody is earning RM1.70 per pen.WOW.this is the reality.it's not only thru direct negotation but sometime the tender is announced to only a single company and the single company will submit in 4-5 quotation with different company names.i wonder the heads don't even bother to inquire why are those items purchase at a very high price or they too........

Tun Mahathir Recuperating, Can Eat Roti Canai And Drink Milk Now

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 10 (Bernama) -- Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is recuperating steadily on his sixth day of post-coronary bypass operation and had roti canai and high energy milk for breakfast today.
The National Heart Institute(IJN)said in a statement the breakfast Tun Mahathir had a full shower and walked gently around his bed.He will continue with intensive physiotherapy.
Tun Dr Mahathir continues to be warded at the Intensive Care Unit.

Pahang Sultan Retains FAM Presidency, Khairy Among Five New Faces In Council

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 9 (Bernama) -- Sultan Ahmad Shah of Pahang was returned as president of the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) at the council's elections today which saw Umno Youth Deputy Chief Khairy Jamaluddin among the five new faces voted in for the 2007-2010 term.
Khairy, who initiated the MyTeam reality TV show which developed into a serious endeavour, was elected unopposed as one of the two deputy presidents. He takes over the slot vacated in July by the Tengku Mahkota of Pahang, Tengku Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.
The other post of deputy president was retained by incumbent Datuk Redzuan Sheikh Ahmad who was returned unopposed.
The other four new faces are the vice-presidents -- Datuk Che Mat Jusoh (president of the Terengganu Football Association), Affandi Hamzah (vice-president of the Kelantan Football Association), Ahmad Mohamad (deputy president of the Johor Football Association) and Datuk Gulzar Mohamad (council member of the Sarawak Football Association).
Incumbent Datuk Raja Ahmad Zainuddin Raja Omar of Perak lost in the elections for the posts of vice-president. He garnered only 24 votes. Che Mat drew 45 votes, Affandi 30, Ahmad 28 and Gulzar 26.
Another incumbent vice-president Datuk Anifah Aman gave up the post in keeping with a recent directive from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi prohibiting ministers, deputy ministers and parliamentary secretaries from holding positions in sports associations. Anifah is the Deputy Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities.
Meanwhile, Che Mat is tipped to take over as chairman of the FAM Local Competitions Committee, a post hitherto held by Raja Ahmad Zainuddin.
Sultan Ahmad Shah expressed confidence that the new line-up of office-bearers would help inspire excellence in the standard of football in the country.
"I thank the congress for their trust in me and retaining me as the president. The new executive committee will attempt to lift the standard of football to a new level.
"I also extend my congratulations to those who have been elected. I hope they will work hard to raise the standard of football in the country," said the sultan, who has been returned as president since 1984.
The FAM president appoints the association's general secretary.
Replying to a question, Sultan Ahmad Shah said the next FAM Council meeting would discuss the appointment of a candidate to that post.
Khairy, 32, the youngest FAM deputy president to date, said the new executive committee would require some time to rectify weaknesses before it sets out to improve the image of the sport.
"Local football fans must not anticipate an overnight change. We need some time to set things right.
"Furthermore, the most obvious weakness is communication at the grassroots, between the state associations and the FAM," he told reporters at the Menara Kuala Lumpur where the FAM's 44th annual congress was held.

tunku : first time in malaysia history that a prime minister's son in-law and above the law holds so many top position just because his father in-law is the prime minister.kayjay had resigned his post in FAM earlier( i don't know what post) when the FAM was attacked by lots of people. he was a coward then or it is just a drama for him to be the deputy president.it's just because the sultan of pahang is the president otherwise kayjay had been elected as the president.khairy is the youngest indeed to be the deputy president as he is targeting to be the youngest prime minister.he is winning unopposed always. who dares to fight the prime minister's son in-law. GOD SAVE MALAYSIA.

Budget 2008 Highlights

Budget-Highlights (General)

* The period for income tax refund is reduced from six months to between 14 to 30 days for e-filling application.
* Registration of companies is now immediate, compared to three days previously.
* The approval time for the Environmental Impact Assessment is reduced from three months to five weeks.
* Effective Jan 1, 2008, private valuation will be allowed for purposes of assessment in stamp duty payment to expedite the transfer of property by enabling it to be executed pending the final valuation from the Valuation and Property Services Department.
* Effective Jan 1, 2008, the Customs Department will merge 16 customs foms into four.
* Immigration Department will shorten the processing period for the issuance of work permits for skilled workers from 14 to seven days effective Jan 1, 2008.
* Immigration Department will introduce a new category of visa for business travellers, which validity period will be longer, effective Jan 1, 2008.
* The process for obtaining professional visit passes for knowledge workers will be streamlined by enabling applications to be made in Malaysian embassies and consulates overseas, effective Jan 1, 2008.
* Effective Jan 1, 2008, Indian and Chinese nationals can also apply for multiple entry visas (MEV) from international financial centres such as New York, London, Hong Kong and Singapore.
* A Public Companies Accounting Oversight Board will be established under the Securities Commission to monitor auditors of public companies to ensure that the quality and reliability of audited financial statements are enhanced.
* The Code of Corporate Governance is being amended to improve the quality of the Boards of public-listed companies (PLCs) and the amendment will be implemented from Oct 1, 2007.
* A 50 per cent stamp duty exemption on documents of transfer will be given for the purchase of one house of not more than RM250,000 per unit.
* RM6.5 billion is allocated for the agricultural sector. Among the programmes to be implemented include encouraging the cultivation of floriculture, herbs and spices.
* RM236 million is provided for the biotechnology industry. Among the projects are the development of biodiversity research centre, biotechnology commercialisation centre and anti-cancer compound research.
* To further promote MSC internationally, the government will host the World ICT Week in Kuala Lumpur in May 2008 as well as the World Congress on Informational Technology 2008 conference.
* Several measures will be taken to enhance Cyberjaya's attraction as a major Cyber City including the construction of an international school, affordable homes and increasing the security level in Cyberjaya.
*RM858 million is allocated for the implementation of various programmes to further increase Malaysia's attraction as a major tourist destination.
* RM22 million is provided to increase homestay activities in 47 selected villages.
*RM30 billion is allocated for the Education Ministry, including the implementation of the Education Development Blueprint.
* RM500,000 will be provided to each cluster school for co-curriculum activities, training as well as educational equipment.
* The annual fee for primary and secondary schools as well as the examination fee for Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia has been abolished effective 2008.
* The Text Book Loan Scheme will be provided to all students, irrespective of their families' income and with no restrictions on the number of eligible children, beginning the 2008 school session.
* School students from families with a monthly income of RM1,000 and below will be provided with a free uniform for one co-curriculum activity requiring uniform.
* Special education teachers will receive an increase in allowance from RM100 to RM250 per month.
* Graduate substitute teachers will receive a raise in allowance from RM85 to RM 150 per day.
* An allowance of RM60 per hour will be provided for degree holders and RM50 per hour for diploma holders teaching Chinese and Tamil languages in national primary schools.
* Retired teachers will be recruited to train teachers and serve as substitute teachers.
* Primary and secondary schools funded and well-managed by trust and charitable bodies will be given income tax exemption.
* RM12 billion is provided for the implementation of various higher education projects and programmes to produce highly knowledgable and first class human capital as well as develop world-class higher institution.
* The Public Service Department (PSD) will increase sponsorship for undergraduate students in local universities from 5,000 students to 10,000 annually, beginning 2008.
* The cost of living allowance (COLA) for students in local higher learning institutions, including those attending preparatory and language courses, will be increased between 23 and 84 per cent effective the start of the first semester 2007 session.
* COLA for PSD-sponsored students in the United States, United Kingdom and Canada will be increased by up to 97 per cent effective Sept 2007.
* RM2 billion is allocated to various government training agencies to increase the number and quality of trained workers, in line with the needs of the labour market.
* RM480 million is allocated for GiatMARA and Industrial Training Institute (ILP) training programmes, as well as skills training in the National Youth Training Institute.
* RM550 million is allocated tp upgrade polytechnic and community colleges to enhance the capacity of training institution.
* RM750 million is allocated for the construction of Advanced Technology Training Centre in Taiping and ILP in Marang.
* The scope of the Human Resource Development Fund will be expanded to provide greater flexibility for employers to choose training and advanced education programmes for their staff.
* The Human Resource Development Fund will be amended to allow employers to provide financial assistance to enable their employees to pursue Masters or Doctoral degrees, especially in new and high technology areas
* For 2008, RM100 million will be allocated to train 50,000 workers under the Masterskills Training Programme, encompassing management skills and physical construction.
* For 2008, RM230 million is allocation for the Science Fund, RM300 million for the Techno Fund and RM546 million for research institution.
* The rate of royalty payment to researchers will be increased to 80 per cent and the balance to research institutions.
* More Technology Licensing Offices will be established in research centres and public universities such as SIRIM and Universiti Sains Malaysia.
* A Knowledge Workers Development Institute will be set up in Cyberjaya to support the development of the digital animation industry as well as increase local expertise in the area.
* Import duty and sales tax exemptions will be given on broadband equipment and consumer access devices
* Tax deduction will be given to employers on benefits in kind in the form of new computers and payment of broadband subscription fees for employees
* RM381 million is allocated for the implementation of low-cost housing programmes, of which RM191 million is allocated for the Program Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) Disewa while RM190 million is allocated for PPR Bersepadu.
* The government will establish a fund to provide guarantees to banks to provide loans for those without fixed income such as farmers and small traders to finance the purchase of low and medium cost houses.
* RM50 million is allocated to provide guarantees to Bank Simpanan Nasional and Bank Islam Berhad so that they could provide loans to those without fixed income, effective Jan 1 2008.
* EPF contributors are allowed to make monthly withdrawals from the balance in Account 2 for the financing of one house, effective Jan 1 2008.
* RM887 million has been allocated to build more quarters for civil servants nationwide in 2008.
* RM12 billion will be expended over the next four years to improve the public transportation system in Kuala Lumpur and Penang
* RM4 billion is allocated to implement several projects to improve the quality of life in Sabah.
* RM4 billion is allocated for the implementation of development projects in Sarawak.
* Individual tax relief of up to RM300 a year will be given on the purchases of sports and exercise equipment.
* A RM2 billion bond will be issued by Bank Negara Malaysia to be subscribed by senior citizens aged 55 years and above, who do not have permanent jobs.
* The disabled workers monthly allowance will be increased from RM200 to RM300.
* A special assistance of RM300 a month will be provided for eligible persons taking care of the disabled, who are bed-ridden and patients suffering from chronic illness.

Budget Highlights (Business)

* A single-tier tax system will be implemented from 2008 to improve the efficiency and simplify the adminstration of corporate tax.
* Under the single-tier tax system, profits are only taxed at the company's level and dividends received are exempted from tax.
* A six-year transition period will be provided to ensure smooth implementation of the single-tier system.
* A further reduction of corporate tax to 25 percent will be implemented in 2009. Corporate tax in 2008 is at 26 percent.
* Effective January 1, 2008, private valuation will be allowed for purposes of assessment in stamp duty payment, for the transfer of properties.
* Effective January 1, 2008, Customs Department will merge 16 customs forms into four.
* Public Companies Accounting Oversight Board to be established under the auspices of the Securities Commission to monitor auditors of public companies.
* Code of Corporate Governance being reviewed to improve quality of boards of public listed companies.
* Companies with high standards of corporate governance and market conduct will be accorded green lane status, which includes shorter time frame for processing of corporate proposals and longer period of licensing.
* Stamp duty exemption on instruments related to mergers and acquisitions of PLCs will be extended to December 31, 2010.
* Petronas's over 1,000 vendors told to merge to be more competitive globally. Stamp duty exemption to be given on all instruments relating to mergers of such vendors implemented by December 31, 2010.
* Foreign ownership on fund management companies and REITs management companies will be allowed up to 70 percent with minimum Bumiputera ownership requirement remaining at 30 percent.
* Commission rates for internet trading and cash upfront transactions will be fully negotiable to reduce cost of transactions in share investment by retail investors.
* Clearing fees to be reduced to 0.03 percent from 0.04 percent, with maximum fee of RM1,000.
* Minimum broking charges per transaction is fixed at RM40.
* Islamic fund management companies will be allowed to be wholly owned by foreigners.
* A RM7 billion fund will be channelled by EPF to be managed by Islamic fund management companies.
* Islamic fund management companies will be allowed to invest all assets abroad.
* Income tax exemption until 2016 will be given to fund management companies on all fees received in respect of Islamic fund management activities.
* To attract greater middle eastern investments, tax incentives will be provided for existing stockbroking companies to set up Islamic stockbroking subsidiaries.
* Three new stockbroking licenses to be issued to leading stockbroking companies that are able to source and intermediate business and order flows from the Middle East.
* To further promote the Takaful industry, several tax treatment will be enhanced, including tax cut on the share of distributed profits.
* Labuan Offshore companies to be given option to be taxe under the Income Tax Act 1967.
* A 50 percent stamp duty exemption to be given on documents of transfer for the purchase of one house, of not more than RM250,000 per unit.
* RM400 million initial fund has been earmarked by Pelaburan Hartanah Bumiputera Bhd to increase Bumiputera property investment in Iskandar Development Region (IDR).
* Government to provide additional RM100 million for investments in healthcare services related projects in IDR.
* SMEs will be given a two-year flexibility to pay taxes at the end of financial year instead of monthly instalments.
* Last mile network facilities providers will be given investment allowance of 100 percent on capital expenditure incurred for broadband up to December 31, 2010.
* Import duty and sales tax exemptions will be given on broadband equipment and consumer access devices.
* RM12 billion will be spent, over the next four years, to improve public transportation system in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.
* Penang Outer Ring Road Project will be implemented on a tender basis shortly.
* The East Coast Economic Region, the Sabah Corridor and the Sarawak Corridor will be launched soon.
* To eradicate hard core poverty, RM214 million will be allocated for Skim Pembangunan Kesejahteraan Rakyat; and RM117 million for Program Pengurangan Kemiskinan and Program Lonjakan Mega.
* RM680 million to be provided for the construction of rural and village roads, RM462 million for rural water and electricity suppply projects, RM70 million for social amenities, and RM15 million for ICT education in rural areas.
* Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) allocates RM45 million for the implementation of SchoolNet project to provide internet services to schools.
* RM13 billion allocated for improving the quality of hospital services, purchasing medical supply and health equipment.
* Ulu Kinta Allied Health Science College, Kuala Pilah Nursing College, Kluang Hospital, Tampin Hospital, Cheras Rehabilitation Hospital and Kuala Lumpur Women and Children Hospital will be constructed in 2008.
* Pioneer status of 100 percent or investment tax allowance of 60 percent for five years will be given to companies undertaking investments in laboratories of international standards for testing of medical devices.
* In efforts to inculcate corporate social responsibility (CSR), public limited companies (PLCs) will have to disclose their employment composition by race and gender, as well as programmes undertaken to develop domestic and bumiputera vendors.
* Government will support efforts to set up a CSR Fund with an initial sum of RM50 million, to be used to jointly finance selected CSR projects.
* RM9.7 billion to be allocated for various types of maintenance works.
* RM176.9 billion to be allocated for 2008 Budget, up 10.9 percent from 2007, of which RM128.8 billion is for operating expenditure and RM48.1 billion is for development expenditure.
* RM64 billion or 49.6 percent of operating expenditure is for fixed charges and grants, RM36.2 billion is for emoluments, RM25.5 billion for supplies an services, RM2.1 billion for purchase of assets and RM1.13 million for other expenditures.
* The largest allocation for development expenditure at RM20.6 billion is for the agriculture, industry and infrastructure sectors; RM15.6 billion is for education, health and housing sectors; RM7.0 billion for security sector; RM2.9 billion for administration; and RM2.0 billion for contigencies.
* The government expects to reduce its fiscal deficit to 3.2 percent of GDP in 2007 from 3.3 percent in 2006.
* Fiscal deficit to be reduced further to 3.1 percent in 2008.
* Economic growth in 2008 is projected at between 6.0-6.5 percent for 2008.

tunku : i must say that this is a very good budget for the education and business sector.i will benefits lots of people but not majority.for a poor family the only benefits that i can see is there's no more school fees as text book already free for them.for the middle income group it's only on the school fees and text book,but how many will benefits from it?as the epf withdrawal for housing loan repayments benefits just a handful people only.for businessmen they benefits a lot from this budget. i'm quite disappointed that personal tax relief not considered by the government at all and for free health care.mind you, these days salary of 2-4k still not enough to spend for a family of 4-5 people.

Abdullah Unveils A Generous Budget For All

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 7 (Bernama) -- A Budget for all. That sums up the 2008 Budget unveiled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today, which offers goodies to all segments of the Malaysian population, from kindergarten kids, civil servants and businessmen to senior citizens.
Totalling RM176.9 billion, the generous budget, an increase of 10.9 per cent from this year's, emphasises three main strategies -- enhancing the nation's competitiveness, strengthening human capital development and ensuring the well-being of all Malaysians.
Coming on the heels of the nation's 50th birthday just a week ago, the budget is aimed at countering the increasing cost of living through measures to raise the people's disposable income.
"As we enter the next 50 years, it is important that we leverage on the strength of our diversity and remain united in our quest towards achieving developed nation status," Abdullah, who is also Finance Minister, said when tabling the 2008 Budget in the Dewan Rakyat here.
Themed "Together Building the Nation and Sharing Prosperity", the budget also places weight on infrastructure development, including in Sabah and Sarawak.
The 2008 Budget also provides for a conducive investment climate for the private sector as it wants the nation's corporate tax regime to remain competitive.
To improve the efficiency and simplify the administration of corporate tax, the government will implement a single-tier tax system, effective from the year of assessment 2008, where profits are only taxed at the company level and dividends received are exempted from tax.
"The reduction in corporate tax (the government in the 2007 Budget announced a reduction of corporate tax from 28 per cent to 27 per cent in 2007, 26 per cent in 2008 and 25 per cent in 2005) and the introduction of the single-tier system will enable higher dividends to be distributed to share holders," said Abdullah, who is also Finance Minister.
The prime minister also announced several measures to be adopted by the Special Taskforce to Facilitate Business (Pemudah) in an effort to ensure a conducive environment to attract private investment.
To attract quality human capital, especially professionals and skilled workers, the government will encourage and facilitate the entry of foreign workers who can add value to the nation's economy.
To this end, the Immigration Department will shorten the processing period for the issuance of work permits to seven days for skilled workers, compared with 14 days previously.
A new category of visa for business travellers would also be introduced to provide for a longer validity period, apart from the introduction of other features to facilitate easier entry into the country effective Jan 1, 2008, he said.
Reflecting the importance of good corporate governance, the government would establish a Public Companies Accounting Oversight Board under the Securities Commission to monitor auditors of public listed firms to ensure quality and reliable audited financial statements.
The prime minister also touched on positioning Malaysia as an international financial centre, promoting investments from the Middle-East, the Takaful industry, increasing the competitiveness of Labuan as an Offshore Financial Services Centre and stimulating the property sector.
Not letting-up the push for the agricultural sector, Abdullah said several new sources of growth had been identified in this field, such as the pioneer project of virgin coconut oil processing, commercialising of nira nipah products and breeding of Boer goats.
To encourage the cooperation between bio-technology companies and local universities, Bionexus status companies would be allowed to use the laboratories and reserach facilities at these universities.
To further promote the Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) internationally, Abdullah said, the government would host the World ICT Week in Kuala Lumpur in May, 2008.
Measures would also be taken to further enhance Cyberjaya's attraction as a major cyber city, able to attract world-class technology companies.
Recognising that the small- and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) may face cash flow constraints at the initial stages of operations, the prime minister said the government would give them flexibility to pay taxes at the end of the financial year instead of monthly instalments for a period off two years from starting operations.
Moving to the second thrust of the budget, the prime minister announced the abolishment of school fees for primary and secondary school students.
On top of this, the government would also provide free textbooks for all school-going children while giving an exemption of examination fees for the Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia. Last year the government waived the examination fees for PMR, SPM and STPM.
"With this (free textbooks scheme), 5.7 million students will benefit from this scheme compared with 4.5 million students currently. With these measures, schooling in Malaysia is now completely free," he said, to the thumping of tables by the MPs.
Abdullah said that to ensure that every student had the opportunity to participate in uniformed activities, the government would provide a set of free uniforms each for one activity for students from families with a monthly income of RM1,000 and below.
Recognising the important role of teachers, the prime minister announced an increase in the allowance for special education teachers from RM100 to RM250 per month, a rise in allowance for graduate substitute teachers from RM85 to RM150 per day and an allowance of RM60 per hour for degree holders and RM50 per hour for diploma holders teaching Chinese and Tamil languages in national schools.
Retired teachers, given their expertise and vast experience, can continue to contribute in the field of education. Retired teachers will therefore be recruited to train teachers and serve as substitute teachers," Abdullah said.
To strengthen higher education, a sum of RM12 billion has been provided for the implementation of projects and programmes, including enhancing research and development and commercialisation activities in four research universities and increasing the allocation to Universiti Teknologi Mara to achieve the target of 200,000 students by 2010.
The fund would also be used to upgrade and expand Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Universiti Darul Iman and Universiti Pertahanan and to rebrand community colleges.
"The government will increase the number of undergraduate students sponsored by the Public Service Department at local universities from 5,000 students to 10,000 annually beginning 2008," Abdullah said.
Taking cognisance of the rising cost of living for students, the government will increase the cost of living allowance by between 23 per cent to 84 per cent to students in local institutions of higher learning, including those attending preparatory and language courses.
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Dr M Starts Intensive Chest Physiotherapy

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 7 (Bernama) -- Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who is recuperating from a coronary bypass operation, underwent intensive chest physiotherapy and exercises to his arms and legs Friday, the National Heart Institute (IJN) said.
As the Tun Mahathir continued to make the good progress on the third day of his post by-pass surgery treatment at the ICU, the anesthetic team led by Dr Hassan Mohd Ariff was gradually easing his support medications.
Having tolerated liquid diet yesterday, doctors started soft diet on tun Dr Mahathir today.

Dr Yahya: Physiologically Tun Dr Mahathir is in his 60s

TUN Dr Mahathir Mohamad may be 81 years old but from the physiologically, his physique is like that of a 60-something.
This factor was behind the former prime minister’s speedy recovery after a coronary by-pass operation at the National Heart Institute (IJN) on Tuesday, said son Datuk Mukhriz.
He said this was conveyed by surgery team leader Tan Sri Dr Yahya Awang to his family this morning.
“Dr Yahya said although chronologically my father’s age is 81, physiologically, he is in the 60s. This was behind his speedy recovery,” Mukhriz told reporters at the IJN lobby here.
He said Tun Mahathir’s fighting spirit and his adherence to doctors orders were also factors which aided his recovery.
After regaining consciousness, Dr Mahathir asked family members whether the operation had been conducted.
“Initially he was a bit confused and when told that the operation was over, he looked happy and called in the doctors, nurses and staff one by one and held their hands to say thanks.
“He was confident in the capability of doctors at IJN,” said Mukhriz.
Dr Mahathir was reported to have started taking liquid food and did some hand and leg exercises.
He is warded at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for observation.
Mukhriz said his mother Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Ali was overwhelmed by the many Malaysians who prayed for his father’s health.
“On behalf of the family, I will like to express thanks to everyone who prayed for his quick recovery,” he added.

"Doa Selamat", Special Prayer For Tun Mahathir

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 6 (Bernama) -- The family of former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad will hold a reading of the Yassin, "doa selamat" and "solat hajat" (special prayer for a wish) following his successful second coronary bypass operation on Tuesday.
Through a statement issued here today, Dr Mahathir's family is inviting Muslims to join the session at the Federal Territory Mosque in Jalan Duta here, beginning with maghrib prayer and ending with isya' prayer(7th Sept 2007.)
Asked on the latest development, Dr Mahathir's daughter Datin Paduka Marina said he was in stable condition since this morning.
"What makes us even happier is that he is able to eat some food although in liquid form," she said when met at the lobby of the National Heart Institute in Jalan Tun Razak here tonight.
Meanwhile, the doctors and nurses are keeping a close watch on Dr Mahathir although he has been put on a liquid diet.
Asked whether the public could visit Dr Mahathir, Marina said for now only close family families were allowed to do so.
Dr Mahathir had his first bypass operation on Jan 24, 1989.

Tun Dr Mahathir Cheerful After Successful Coronary By-Pass Surgery

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 6 (Bernama) -- Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's condition is improving after successfully undergoing a five-hour coronary by-pass operation at the National Heart Institute (IJN) on Monday.
The 81-year-old former prime minister regained consciousness yesterday but is still in the intensive care unit (ICU) for post-operative observation.
Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Abdul Aziz Shamsuddin who visited him this morning said Dr Mahathir's wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Ali, told him that her husband was looking cheerful.
"I only managed to speak to Dr Siti Hasmah outside. Tun (Mahathir) was resting in the ward. She also looked very cheerful and spirited.
"We will continue to pray for Tun's speedy recovery," he said.
It was the second by-pass surgery for Dr Mahathir after the first one on Jan 24 1989.
Meanwhile, an IJN statement here says that Dr Mahathir has made significant progress and has been breathing on his own without respiratory support since 2.10pm yesterday.
"He is fully concious, alert and able to converse with his family members. He is currently undergoing intensive physiotherapy to optimise his respiratory functions.
"In addition, Dr Mahathir is also doing light exercises of his arms and legs. His vital parameters continue to be stable," it says.
However, he will remain warded at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for continuous observation.
The statement says that Dr Mahathir has been started on a liquid diet since this morning and after 48 hours of close monitoring by doctors and nurses at the ICU, the IJN is satisfied with his progress.
However, visitors are still confined to immediate family members only.