Change System To Curb Money Politics, Says Muhyiddin

PETALING JAYA, Nov 29 (Bernama) -- In a bid to curb money politics in Umno, vice-president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today suggested that the election of party national leaders not be confined to the 2,500 delegates to the Umno assembly but be opened to the some 100,000 branch leaders who attend divisional meetings at their respective localities.
"I have a few suggestions on ways to curb this menace which has brought about a negative perception of Umno. One of it is allowing delegates to the divisional meetings to pick national leaders. Presently, the fate of national leaders is in the hands of the 2,500 delegates to the general assembly.
"But if we allow branch leaders who attend divisional meetings pick national leaders, it would be much harder to bribe over 100,000 branch delegates. Although this would require amendments to the Umno's constitution, I feel this is one of the ways we can curb money politics in the party," he told reporters after opening Pagoh Umno Youth's management and administration workshop, here, Saturday.
He said for example, the Pagoh division, which he heads, would have a total 444 grassroot leaders voting to pick national leaders instead of ony a handful under the present system.
"This way more Umno grassroot leaders would be involved in the election of national leaders. They would have a sense of belonging to the party. All divisions can have their meetings on the same day to vote national leaders and counting can be done at the divisional level and collated at the headquarters. Announcement of winners can be made the next day.
"This idea can be fine tuned. It is just an idea that I am throwing. If it can be improved, why not? It is for the betterment of the party as a whole. We need to improve public perception of Umno and with this, we can move forward," said Muhyiddin, who is also International Trade and Industry Minister.
He said although this idea could not be implemented at the forthcoming Umno election in March, next year, it could be used in the long term as a permanent effort to curb money politics in the party.
The Umno deputy president aspirant said his suggestions to improve the party election system would be contained in a paper to be submitted to Umno's top leadership in the near future.
"I would also suggest that we do away with the quota system. The system requires lobbying and directly contributes to money politics," he said, adding that the largest political party in the country might have to set-up an election committee in the future if these suggestions were implemented.
On another note, Muhyiddin said the Umno Disciplinary Board which investigates and takes action against those involved in money politics needs to beef-up the number of investigation officers to ensure speedier action.
"I agree that action should be meted out fast but the number of officers in the investigation panel needs to be increased. Without the manpower, how are they going to investigate over 1,000 complaints in a short-span of time.
"Furthermore investigations need time as they cannot be done hastily. They have to undertake a detailed investigation. To ensure a fair and just investigation, time is needed, but if we increase the number of investigating officers, then they can spend time on a case in detail and submit their report or recommendations," the Minister added.
Asked about the statement by Umno secretary general Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor that of the over 1,000 complaints about money politics in the party, 75 per cent were false allegations, he said the fact needs to be verified by Umno's Disciplinary Board.
"I do not know about it but it is up to the board to decide. They have to investigate and then come to a conclusion," he added.

tunku : that is the best way, as everyone is saying it right now that let the branches and divisions members votes who they want as the national leaders not the 2500 delegates to the general assembly. we hope march 08 will be last for the G7 to vote.
coming to tengku adnan's statement that out of 1000 complaints,75% were false allegations, this statement is totally different from the statement from the disciplinary board chairman's statement. disciplinary board said that 30% are false and slanderous but ku nan is saying 75%. did ku nan gets his info from the disciplinary board or just guessing?

Anwar stays mum over Sept 16

Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim did not offer any new explanation over his failure to topple the Barisan Nasional-led federal government at the annual PKR congress today.
Anwar, who is also PKR de facto leader, did not explain why the takeover did not happen during his much-awaited speech - which lasted for about 20 minutes - at the congress this morning.
He merely touched on the subject in passing at the outset of his speech, admitting that the change the opposition promised the rakyat would take place on Sept 16 is yet to happen.
"Our wish to change the government is not about personal political ambition or greed. We want a just system, an independent judiciary and a professional police force.
"Despite all the sabotage and plotting (towards the Sept 16 plan), our desire to bring about a new dawn for Malaysia will never be quashed," he told a 4,000-strong crowd at the Malawati stadium in Shah Alam, Selangor.
He later moved on to other topics, including the economy and the Sarawak state elections.
He evaded the press conference too
In a copy of his speech distributed to reporters, Anwar conceded there were setbacks to his plan but said the party’s "march to victory" had merely been delayed.
He did not explain the reasons in the written speech, which he did not read out at the congress.
The 61-year-old former deputy premier also evaded a press conference held during a break later. The media session was instead attended by his wife, party president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and other party leaders.
Many were expecting Anwar to issue a proper explanation at the congress over his failure to meet his self-imposed deadline of toppling the BN federal government.

tunku: there will be explanation if there is a truth in what he says.this moron has always lied and will keep lying for the rest of his life.what about the 8th december, is it on?

Riz Khan to interview Najib, Mahathir live

Deputy Prime Minister Najib Razak and former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad will be appearing separately live on Al Jazeera's Riz Khan show next week.
Both are expected to talk on the current political situation in Malaysia and the implications of the global economic crisis.
Najib will be making an appearance on 10 pm on Monday, Dec 1, while Mahathir is scheduled to be on air at the same time three days later on Thursday, Dec 4.
The programme is noted for its interactive qualities where viewers can call in and ask questions directly to the panelists.
Call or email your questions
Both these figures have had their share of controversies and tough questions are expected to be thrown at them.
Those keen to participate can call in or email questions to Riz’ email (riz@aljazeera.net) or call in live to the show at +1 202 275 2360.
People can also join the chatroom by entering livestation.com. Al Jazeera English is broadcast on Channel 513 of Astro.

Wan Azizah: PKR Prepared To Restore Immunity Of Rulers

SHAH ALAM, Nov 29 (Bernama) -- Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) and the Pakatan Rakyat (PR) coalition are prepared to restore the immunity of the Malay rulers based on the spirit of the constitutional monarchy in the country, PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said today.
She said this was in line with the commitment of the PKR towards the position of the Malay rulers as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.
This was not in response to the call by the Regent of Negeri Sembilan Tunku Naquiyuddin Tuanku Ja'afar for restoration of the full immunity of the Malay rulers, she told reporters after opening the PKR annual national congress, here.
Tunku Naquiyuddin had on Wednesday called for restoration of the full immunity of the Malay rulers to help them be effective "guardians of the constitution".
Dr Wan Azizah said she had stated the party's stand to dismiss allegations that the PKR was attempting to erode the sovereignty of the rulers, the position of Bahasa Melayu as the national language and the status of Islam in the country.
Earlier, in her address opening the congress, Dr Wan Azizah said the PR component parties had signed a joint communique which clarified the commitment of the coalition towards the position of the Malay rulers, the special privileges of the Malays and the status of Bahasa Malaysia and Islam, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.
"Our top leadership also reiterates our joint commitment to champion the fundamental rights of all Malaysians," she said.
Meanwhile, Dr Wan Azizah said PKR had yet to discuss which of the PR parties should field a candidate for the upcoming parliamentary by-election in Kuala Terengganu.
The seat has fallen vacant following the death yesterday of Datuk Razali Ismail, 59, who was deputy education minister, after he collapsed while playing badminton at the Aminuddin Baki Institute in Genting Highlands.

tunku : suddenly pkr is championing the malay supremacy etc.now they want to restore the immunity of rulers. enough of fishing, everytime there is an issue this party will play a role of a parrot. there is enough of immunity of the rulers currently and we don't need further immunity for them. i thought this party fights for the rakyat, suddenly when there is a ruler who voiced out of their immunity, this party wants to champions it.enough of politicking, you have 5 states under you, show us proofs and result.you can't even serve your party members well.

Zaid Ibrahim makes appearance at PKR congress

SHAH ALAM: Former minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim who is an Umno member caused a stir Saturday by showing up at the PKR national congress opening.
He however denied that he had joined PKR or any other opposition party.
“Yes, yes, I am still in Umno. I have not been sacked yet,” he said Saturday when approached by reporters.
On Friday night, he was seen at the DAP victory dinner in Penang which fuelled talk that he was going to join the Opposition.
Zaid who recently received a show-cause letter from Umno said he was still waiting for the response from the party.
On why he was present at the PKR congress, Zaid said it was because he was invited to it and because he was interested in politics.
On whether it showed he supported Pakatan Rakyat, he said repeatedly “it just shows I’m interested in politics.”
On whether it was right for him to be present at a congress which openly slammed Umno, Zaid said, that was normal in politics.
“The Opposition is not an enemy. They are just people with different views so I don’t regard them as an enemy. They ‘bantai’ (slam) Umno and Umno slams them. It’s part of the game,” he said.
On whether he had any fear that Umno would now be forced to take action against him for showing up at the opening of the PKR congress which featured Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as the keynote speaker, he said, “I think I don’t have that much fear. I fear more for my health. I am not well.”
Others present at the opening of the congress were DAP’s Lim Kit Siang, Karpal Singh, Teresa Kok, Dr Chen Man Hin, PAS vice-president Datuk Husam Musa, Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Nizar Jamaluddin, PAS secretary-general Datuk Kamaruddin Jaafar and SAPP president Datuk Yong Teck Lee.
SAPP recently left Barisan Nasional but it has not joined Pakatan Rakyat as yet.

tunku : he should have been expelled from umno last night. what is pak lah and umno disciplinary board waiting for? or zaid ibrahim attended the congress on behalf of pak lah? zaid ibrahim should join pkr and definately he will be given a post and a place to stand in the next GE.

Major Money Politics Cases Must Be Investigated Fast - Mukhriz

JERLUN, Nov 28 (Bernama) -- The Umno disciplinary board must investigate major cases of money politics fast so that the culprits will be prevented from contesting party elections in March, said Jerlun Member of Parliament Datuk Mukhriz Tun Mahathir.
The Umno Youth Exco member said small cases should also be investigated but focus should on the the major cases.
"We fear that if action is not taken against those involved in major cases, only the small fish will be caught while the big fish escape," he told reporters here last night.
He said the Umno disciplinary board had received 900 reports on money politics and hoped that they would be investigated.
Mukhriz who would be contesting the Umno Youth chief post supported a statement by Umno information chief Tan Sri Muhammad Muhd Taib that the party should revert to the original two nominations to qualify for contests as it would stamp out money politics.
He said leaders at the grassroots should be allowed to nominate national leaders during branch elections.
"They should be involved in the election of party leaders including that at the highest level," he added.

tunku : that is always the problem, the smaller fish get caught while the big fish enjoys freedom.the best is let the members decide that is from the branches and divisions, not the delegates at the general assembly.

Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rojiun

Deputy Education Minister Razali dies

KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Education Minister Datuk Razali Ismail died at the Aminuddin Baki Institute in Genting Highlands at about 6.30pm Friday.
This was confirmed by Education director-general Datuk Alimuddin Mohd Dom when contacted by Bernama today.
It is believed that Razali, 59, who is the MP for Kuala Terengganu, collapsed while playing badminton at the institute.
Alimuddin said the body would be taken to Hospital Bentong, Pahang.
Razali leaves a wife, Datin Nooraini Lob Yusoff, and five children.
A staff of the institute said Razali had been playing badminton with several staff members when he collapsed.
"He did not have any specific function there. He had come for recreation," he said.
Education Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein, when contacted, said Razali’s death was a great loss to the ministry.
"I’m deeply saddened. It’s a great loss," he said in a text message.
Hishammuddin said he was at the institute and was engaged with the funeral arrangements. - Bernama


TENGKU BUDRIAH LAID TO REST
KANGAR, Nov 28 (Bernama) -- Raja Perempuan Besar Perlis Tengku Budriah Tengku Ismail, 84, who died at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital (HKL) this morning, was laid to rest at the Arau Royal Mausoleum in the afternoon.
Tengku Budriah, who was also the third Raja Permaisuri Agong from 1960 to 1965, was buried at 6pm beside the grave of her late husband, Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail.
Tengku Budriah, who was the mother of the Raja Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail, died at 3.47am while hospitalised at HKL. However, how long she was hospitalised at HKL was not stated by the palace.
Among those who paid their last respects in Kuala Lumpur were the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
Before being brought to the Istana Arau here, her remains were flown on board a Royal Malaysian Air Force Hercules aircraft from the Subang Airport to the Sultan Abdul Halim Airport in Alor Star at 9.30am accompanied by Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin and Raja Perempuan Perlis, Tuanku Fauziah Abdul Rashid.
The Sultan and Sultanah of Kedah were among the Malay Rulers who paid their last respects at Istana Arau. Others included Perlis Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Md Isa Sabu and former menteri besar Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim.


Terengganu Menteri Besar's Mother Dies

KUALA TERENGGANU, Nov 28 (Bernama) -- Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Ahmad Said's mother died at the Kemaman Medical Center at about 10.30pm Friday due to old age.
Wook Ali, 88, was admitted to the medical center a week ago.
Ahmad, the youngest of six siblings, was at her side and also were other family members, when Wook breathed last.
She would be buried at the Telok Kalong Muslim cemetery after the Zohor prayers tomorrow.
The Menteri Besar's political secretary, Wan Ahmad Nizam Wan Abdul Hamid, confirmed her death.

Muhyiddin: Time to adopt new political approach

MUAR: It is time that Umno leaders at federal and state levels adopt a new political approach and serve all races, Umno vice-president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said.
“We have to begin now as we don’t want Umno to be seen as a narrow political party which only serves the Malays.
“I have directed the two Umno state representatives in the Pagoh parliamentary to serve every community from now,” he said after chairing the Pagoh Umno division meeting yesterday.
Muhyiddin, who is Pagoh Umno chief, said times have changed and Umno leaders should be more open-minded in serving the rakyat and the nation.
He urged Umno leaders to go to the ground to know the people’s problems and needs and make efforts to solve them.
Besides the economy, he added, the leaders should also look into the education and health needs of the people to ensure they continue to live in comfort.
Muhyiddin, who is International Trade and Industries Minister, also called for the leaders to increase economic activities in their areas and help the people in their business ventures.
He also urged Barisan Nasional party leaders to work as a team now to prepare for the next general election.

tunku : this was suppose to be done long time ago but anyway better late than never. umno must adopt new approaches now as their current approaches are obsolete one. not only the state representative should serve all but i think the division leaders too do the same. this will bring umno closer to people.in every division, there are bn component parties, these people should meet at least once a month to discuss and solve issues in their division.there must start doing that now.they should meet the rakyat more often.

Karpal Demands Nazri's Resignation

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 27 (Bernama) -- DAP chairman Karpal Singh on Thursday demanded the resignation of Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz for misleading the Dewan Rakyat and the people.
He said Nazri had maintained that information on the pension received by the judges sacked during the 1988 crisis had never been disclosed to the public.
"It is indeed difficult to comprehend how Nazri could say that the provision for the pension to these judges was not privy to the public and that for 20 years, no one knew that pension had been paid," he said here.
He said the The Star on Oct 7, 1988 had quoted the report of the five-member judicial tribunal which among others stated that the then Yang di-Pertuan Agong had consented for two of the three judges to be given pension.
The two judges were Tan Sri Wan Suleiman Pawan Teh and Datuk George Seah.
Tun Salleh Abbas was tried separately. Three other judges -- Tan Sri Mohamed Azmi Kamaruddin, Tan Sri Eusoffe Abdoolcader and Tan Sri Wan Hamzah Mohamed Salleh -- had been reinstated.
The 140-page tribunal report was made public by the then Attorney-General Tan Sri Abu Talib Othman on the order of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
On Nov 6, Nazri said in the Dewan Rakyat that all six judges were not sacked but advised to take early retirement. He latter admitted that that was not the case as upon checks, he knew they were given pension on the basis of compassion.

tunku : i guess karpal is right on this issue. nazri lied to the parliament and to the whole nation.he was lying again when he said he did not know that the judges were sacked.everyone knew the judges were sacked.

'Let's move on,' says Shahrizat

KUALA LUMPUR: Wanita Umno should show a good example as mothers and leaders that it is possible to have a contest in a dignified way, said Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil.
“There was a bit of turbulence last week but we must let it pass and move on,” said the deputy Wanita chief who caused a stir last week when she announced that she would challenge Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz for the Wanita Chief post.
Shahrizat who had just returned from Cairo after attending the 2nd Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) Ministerial Women Conference said she was really inspired by the conference.
“Even though there is this Wanita contest, we must put our differences aside and speak as one voice to serve the nation. Women and mothers must show that even in difficult times, we can stand tall with dignity and be big in our hearts.
“We must not be petty,” she added.
Over the last two weeks both Shahrizat and Rafidah supporters have exchanged barbed remarks over the Wanita contest.
Some have accused Shahrizat of breaking her word on the transition plan which would have seen her take over the Wanita Chief post from Rafidah in June just three months after the party elections; while others like Raja Ropiah Raja Abdullah have backed Shahrizat and said the plan was never discussed in the exco meetings and was just forced on them.
Shahrizat however refused to be drawn into this exchange, saying that “We are one. Let’s end this and move on now.”
She hoped that Malaysia would play a leading role in fighting for women especially in the decision-making process in the planning and development of the country.
She acknowledged there were already women in the country like Bank Negara Malaysia governor Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz in key decision-making roles, but stressed that there were too few of them.
“It's just not enough. We don’t want token representation anymore,” said Shahrizat who is special adviser to the Prime Minister for Women and Social Development Affairs.
She hoped that Wanita Umno would spearhead the effort, be vocal and fight for specific women and family issues.
“We want the women here to look at us as champions for the causes. We women must lead the way in our plural society to ensure a safe, harmonious, progressive and happy nation,” she added.

tunku : i hope shahrizat means what she said.wanita should forget about all the transition matter and just let the members (unfortunately only the members representatives) decide who will be the next wanita chief.don't argue much now as things could be difficult after the election.have the contest in dignified way.

Three Singaporeans Jailed For Wearing 'Kangaroo T-shirts'

SINGAPORE, Nov 27 (Bernama) -- The Singapore High Court Thursday sentenced three Singaporeans to seven to 15 days' jail for wearing T-shirts bearing a picture of a kangaroo in judge's robes in the vicinity of the New Supreme Court Building last May.
Muhammad Shafi'ie Syahmi Sariman and Isrizal Mohamed Isa were jailed for seven days each and Tan Liang Joo John, 15 days, by Justice Judith Prakash.
She also ordered each of them to pay the Attorney-General's Chambers S$5,000 in costs and disbursements.
The case against the trio for contempt of court was heard on Monday.
The Attorney-General had applied for contempt proceedings to be instituted against the three after they appeared in the T-shirts in the court which was hearing assessment of damages in respect of a defamation action brought by Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong against the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) leaders last May.
The AG's Chambers took offence as it implied that the court was a kangaroo court.
Tan was also heard saying: "This is a kangaroo court" to Lee when the Minister Mentor walked past him outside Court No. 4B at the New Supreme Court Building.
On 27 July this year, an article entitled "Police question activists over kangaroo T-shirts" appeared on the SDP website.
The article reproduced a photograph of the three men wearing the same T-shirts and it was meant to give wider publicity to their allegation that the court was a kangaroo court, the AG had said.
At the Monday hearing, the Attorney-General was represented by Deputy Solicitor-General Jeffrey Chan Wah Teck, principal senior state counsel Jennifer Marie and state counsel Gillian Koh Tan and Lee Jwee Nguan.
Tan and Isrizal appeared in person while Muhammad Shafi'ie Syahmi was represented by Chia Ti Lik.
After reviewing the evidence from both sides, Justice Prakash found that each of them was in contempt of court in the manner alleged.
In the case of Muhammad Shafi'ie Syahmi and Isrizal, Justice Prakash found that they were in contempt for wearing the T-shirts in the vicinity of the court and inside the courthouse.
In the case of Tan, the judge found him to be in contempt for distributing the T-shirt in the court building and wearing the offending T-shirt and for being involved in the posting of the photograph on the SDP website.
The three men also refused to apologise to the court or to withdraw their ey insinuation about the Singapore court when given the opportunity to do so by Justice Prakash.

tunku : what a democratic country singapore is, hail to them. just for wearing kangaroo t-shirt, those poor guys have to spend 15 days in jail.here in malaysia you are free to wear those type of t-shirts.so i guess malaysia has more freedom than singapore.

Saiful unhappy with sodomy trial delays

Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan, who accused Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim of sodomising him, expressed disappointment with the delays of the trial as he made a rare public appearance today.
"I am still in high spirits to wait for the trial date although I am slightly disappointed with the delays... but it would not dampen my spirits in testifying and to uphold justice," he told reporters.
Anwar’s 23-year-old former aide spoke to the media after he showed up at the Federal Territories Islamic Affairs Department (Jawi) in Kuala Lumpur today. He was last seen in public on Aug 19 at the same venue.
However, his reasons for being at Jawi today remained a mystery as he refused to divulge any details. He merely said his appearance was to quash rumours that he was seriously ill and had died.
Saiful’s re-emergence today comes just a day ahead of the annual PKR congress, where Anwar is, among others, expected to address another issue that has affected his credibility - his failure to topple the BN-led government as promised.
'Slanders and lies'
Anwar’s sodomy trial has been continuously delayed following an ongoing legal battle between the prosecution and defence on where the trial should be heard.
The prosecution wants the case to be heard at the High Court while the defence wants it to remain in the Sessions Court.
Clad in a black suit and songkok, Saiful showed up at the Jawi office at 11.05am, accompanied by his father, Azlan Mohd Lazim and lawyer Zamri Idrus.
They spent about 30 minutes in the office but refused to divulge why they were there despite being pressed by reporters.
When asked whether his presence was related to a qazaf complaint lodged by Anwar, Saiful replied: "No, no, like I said just now, I won’t give any comment on why I am here today."
Anwar had lodged a complaint known as qazaf in Islamic law to request a probe into ‘false allegations’ pertaining to adultery or sexual misconduct.
Saiful’s lawyer Zamri would only say that they were at Jawi "for some discussions".
A check by reporters however revealed that Jawi staff were also in the dark over Saiful’s surprise visit, as one staff member said all department’s officials were out attending a workshop today.
Despite refusing to disclose the reason he was at Jawi, Saiful came prepared, reading out a one-page statement during the three-minute press conference, stating that he is healthy and had not died, contrary to claims on the Internet.
He did not give details of the websites or blogs he was referring to.
"I hereby rebut all the claims and slanders against me which are being circulated on the Internet claiming that I am ill, paralysed and suffering from a sexual disease to the extent that I had died.
"All that is not true, they are slanders and lies created by irresponsible parties. I wish to stress that I am in good health," he added.
'I pray to God everyday'
Taking questions from reporters over the sodomy trial, Saiful said he was prepared to take to the stand, adding that he has been praying to God everyday for a smooth trial.
"I am still resting and trying to calm my feelings. Everyday I pray to God that the trial will go on smoothly. Even though (the trial) is late, everything that has happened will have its repercussions," he said.
To another question, Saiful said he was no longer under police protection.
He declined comment when asked about FT Imam Ramlang Porigi’s confession that the latter was instructed to witness his (Saiful’s) oath at the FT mosque that he was indeed sodomised by Anwar and there were discrepancies in the ceremony.
The opposition has claimed that the confession proved that the sodomy charge was politically-motivated.
"I don’t know about Ramlang Porigi," replied Saiful.
Asked why he has not been updating his blog lately, the 23-year-old said there were a lot of lies being spread on the Internet and therefore it was a "waste of time" for him to spend time on the Internet.
On speculation that he has tied the knot, Saiful - who appeared stunned at the idea - replied: "Married? Insyallah (God willing) if we are fated to be together and perhaps after the court case."

tunku: we are all unhappy with the delays. the sooner the better.just can't wait to see the moron gets what he deserved.we hope the court take this case as their top priority as it is a case of public and world interest.

More Banks Cut Interest Rates

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- Public Bank Bhd and Public Islamic Bank Bhd will reduce the Base Lending Rate (BLR) and Base Financing Rate (BFR) by 25 basis points from 6.75 percent to 6.5 percent with effect from Dec 1.
This follows Bank Negara's downward revision of the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) by 25 basis points on Monday.
"With the reduction of the BLR/BFR, the full benefit of the reduction in interest rates by Bank Negara Malaysia is passed on to our customers. It supports Bank Negara's objective of promoting domestic economic activities by lowering the cost of financing for consumers and businesses," said Public bank chairman Tan Sri Dr. Teh Hong Piow.
He said the revision in the BLR/BFR will have a marginal impact on the net interest income of the Public Bank Group, after taking into account the benefits enjoyed from the reduction in the Statutory Reserve Ratio from 4.0 percent to 3.5 percent by Bank Negara.
Separately, Asian Finance Bank Bhd also announced that it would reduce its BFR by 25 basis points to 6.5 percent effective Dec 1.

tunku : this is one of the best option right now, to reduce the interest rate.i think they should lower it to 5.75% especially with a slumping housing market, steep decline in manufacturing and increased unemployment.

Parliament: Conflict brewing over alcohol ban proposal

KUALA LUMPUR: Conflict apprears to be brewing within the Pakatan Rakyat coalition over a proposal by Selangor PAS to implement an alcohol ban in Selangor.
It was reported in Sin Chew Daily on Wednesday that the Selangor PAS, after failing in its bid to initiate a liquor ban through the Selangor state exco, has directed PAS councillors to move a similar motion in 12 local councils.
A PAS councillor was reportedly going to move the motion in the Klang council meeting on Wednesday while PAS councillors in other district councils in Selangor would follow suit in future.
However, Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (PKR - Permatang Pauh) said otherwise.
“The current policy remains and does not change.We do not encourage Muslims and the young ones to drink. We are also not here to deny the rights of the non-Muslims,” he said to reporters at the Parliament lobby on Wednesday.
Anwar also said that he did not think such a ban could be decided in local councils.
“It is for the state government to decide. It can only take effect after the state exco makes its decision on the ban,” Anwar said.
Teresa Kok (DAP - Seputeh), who is also Selangor senior state exco member, said such a ban does not exist at the moment.
She also said it was weeks ago during the state exco meeting that the proposal was brought up mainly targeting the easy access of liquor.
“The teenagers can easily buy beer from convenience stores, mini markets and also supermarkets.
“There is no decision on the proposal yet,” she said, adding that dialogues with convenience stores, mini markets and supermarkets were being planned.
PAS deputy president Nasharuddin Mat Isa (PAS - Bachok) said he was not clear on the issue as the Selangor PAS did not communicate with the central leadership on the matter.
“Our stand on the issue is that there should be control on things that affect the morals and safety of the people,” he said.
Nasharuddin said control would only apply to Muslims.

tunku : don't the so called "pakatan" discuss things first before deciding what action to take? again pas will be the main loser as always.pity pas.they have to bow down to their "pakatan" wishes all the time.i wonder if pas still an effective party.the state and the central management have no communication at all.they don't know what's happening with each other.

PKR Sec-Gen: No Wan Azizah-Anwar Transfer Of Power

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 25 (Bernama) -- Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) has no plan to carry out leadership transition between president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and party advisor Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the party's annual congress this weekend.
PKR secretary-general Datuk Salehuddin Hashim said the matter did not arise even though Dr Wan Azizah had resigned as the Permatang Pauh member of parliament to give way to Anwar to contest the seat.
"There is no plan whatsoever. Why the need to change? She handles the party well," he told reporters at the PKR headquarters when asked to comment on rumours that there would be a leadership transition in the party at the congress.
The party's election would only be held in 2010.
The PKR national congress, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the Melawati Stadium in Shah Alam, will be attended by 1,900 delegates from 180 divisions ationwide.
The PKR Youth and Wanita PKR will hold their respective congress on Saturday, also in Shah Alam.

tunku : anwar is not taking over the leadership as he knows that he will be in jail soon for sodomizing.what an excuse from morons.

Dr M: Mastering English Will Not Erode Importance Of Bahasa Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 25 (Bernama) -- The fear among some quarters in the country that learning and using English would erode the importance of Bahasa Malaysia is unfounded, said former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Dr Mahathir said he was criticised by nationalists for wanting the government to continue teaching Science and Mathematics in English, but English was the only language where Malaysians could gain much knowledge in these two subjects.
"Before I stepped down as prime minister, I introduced this system because I felt it was necessary for us to gain knowledge. If we are going to translate all the works of Science and Mathematics into Bahasa Malaysia, then it would take a long time and we would lose out.
"But lately there has been a debate about this and that we need to revert to the old system of using Bahasa Malaysia to teach and learn Science and Maths.
"The Education Ministry is going to decide on this very soon. There are pros and cons to this and I do worry about it. Our people should know how to read, write and speak the national language but at the same time to gain knowledge, they should learn and use English."
He said this in his keynote address at the English and Asia 2008 First International Conference on Language and Linguistics, organised by the International Islamic University Malaysia, here, Tuesday.
He said the amount of new knowledge was coming out "fast and furious" and Malaysians needed to grasp the knowledge, which were mostly in English.
"I hope I can stop the government from going back to using Bahasa Malaysia to teach Maths and Science but I am no more in power. We have to accept whatever the decision although it may not be that good for the country."
He said the reason that Malaysia lacked teachers to teach the two subjects in English should not be an excuse because teachers could be substituted by computer software, "which is better than teachers sometimes".

tunku : as a parent, i urge the government not to revert to the old system,that is using bahasa malaysia to teach and learn science and mathematics. bahasa malaysia will still be important as other subjects are all in bahasa malaysia.we won't be less malay or malaysian if we learn this to subject in english. it is for the benefit of our childrens.

Do Not Make Yoga Fatwa A Religious Issue, Says Dr Mahathir

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 25 (Bernama) -- Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad today urged the relevant parties not to turn the National Fatwa Council's decision to bar Muslims from practising yoga into a religious issue.
"If they (National Fatwa Council) believe it is wrong, then it is wrong. It is unfortunate that other people think that it is a slur on their religion. It is like saying Muslims should not eat pork, and it is not an insult to the Chinese. It is the same when Muslims cannot do yoga. It is not because they are insulting the Hindus.
"It is just that they should not do it. Whether the Malays follow it or not, that is really their business. Other people should not make it a religious issue. Like all other things forbidden among Muslims, it is not an insult to others.
"But people want to make an issue of this. I feel very sorry. Personally, I don't care very much if you stand on your head or stand on your feet. It is not as if by performing yoga you immediately become a non-Muslim."
He told reporters this after presenting a keynote address at the English and Asia 2008 First International Conference on Language and Linguistics organised by the International Islamic University Malaysia, here, today.
Last Saturday, the National Fatwa Council issued an edict barring Muslims from performing yoga, saying that it was against the teachings of Islam.
On another note, Dr Mahathir said he was steadfast in coming up with a list of names of Umno leaders involved in money politics in the run-up to the party polls, slated for March next year.
"I have to be very sure before I put them (names of leaders) on the list. If I have evidence and Umno is not taking any action, then I will put (the names) on the list. I have given the (Umno) disciplinary board two weeks and I hope they act within two weeks," he said.
Asked on Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's statement that money politics was in existence even when Dr Mahathir was Umno president, Dr Mahathir said: "There was corruption during my time and I have always admitted to that, but not on the scale that you are seeing now."

tunku : i can't simply understand why nowadays the non muslim making fatwas as an issue when the fatwa is just FOR muslims ONLY. like what tun had said if muslims can't eat pork,it is not an insult to the chinese.if hindus don't eat beef,it is not an insult to the muslims. i am sure basically yoga is not haram, it is only haram when there's a hindus religious method use in it like their chanting etc.

S’porean trio found guilty of wearing T-shirts

SINGAPORE: Three men who wore T-shirts depicting a kangaroo dressed in judge’s robes were found to be in contempt of court after a day-long hearing on Monday.
Justice Judith Prakash adjourned the hearing shortly after making her decision so the men could decide if they wanted to apologise and withdraw the insinuations they had made about the courts.
But the trio -- full-time national serviceman Muhammad Shafi’ie Syahmi Sariman, 20; Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) assistant secretary-general John Tan Liang Joo, 47; and activist Isrizal Mohamed Isa, 33 -- refused to do so after the 15-min break.
Muhammad Shafi’ie cited “personal convictions.” Isrizal said he would not apologise as he had no intention of impugning the court and did not think wearing a T-shirt would amount to that.
Tan refused to apologise as he believed his actions were about fair criticism.
Justice Prakash said she could not agree with him and adjourned the hearing till Thursday when she will deliver her verdict on their sentence.
The Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) initiated contempt of court proceedings against the trio for having “scandalised the Singapore Judiciary by publicly wearing identical white T-shirts, imprinted with a palm-sized picture of a kangaroo dressed in a judge’s gown, within and in the vicinity of the New Supreme Court Building.”
They wore the T-shirts between May 26 and May 28 at the Supreme Court.
This was when they attended hearings before Justice Belinda Ang to assess defamation damages that the SDP, its leader Chee Soon Juan and his sister Chee Siok Chin had to pay Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew.
At Monday’s hearing, Deputy Solicitor-General Jeffrey Chan sought stiff jail terms and cited two reasons.
Firstly, the worst insult that someone can level against the judicial system is to call it a kangaroo court, he said.
The term is generally understood to mean a court that is characterised by unauthorised or irregular procedures, or sham and unfair legal proceedings.
Secondly, the men’s refusal to apologise reaffirmed their contempt of court.
Chan urged Justice Prakash to pass a sentence that would denounce such a show of contempt and deter others from acting in the same way.
The men argued separately that they had no intention of publicising their actions, which they said were merely a form of self-expression.
They instead blamed The Straits Times for giving their actions wide publicity through a photograph in its May 27 edition showing them in the T-shirts.
Isrizal also said the image on the T-shirt was not a kangaroo. He said the animal was a wallaby and added that someone asked if it was a chihuahua.
Tan also denied making the remark, “This is a kangaroo court,” as MM Lee walked past him outside Court 4B.
Chan said that while Tan denied making the remark, he did not deny evidence that he pointed to the kangaroo image when MM Lee walked past him.
Tan also did not deny that he committed contempt of court “by posting or acquiescing in the posting” of an article on the SDP website on July 27 about the trio being questioned by police.
That article included a photograph of the trio wearing the T-shirts.
The court was also shown closed-circuit TV footage of Tan distributing the T-shirts, and of the T-shirt-clad trio being photographed by the media at the entrance to the Supreme Court building.
Although they argued that they were taking personal photographs and tried to stop the media, Chan noted that they stood before the media for 26 seconds.
“If they were that keen not to be photographed, one would have expected they would have walked away as soon as pressmen gathered,” he said.

tunku : what a democracy country singapore is. here if the public ciriticise the court, jumping up and down outside the court, curse the judges, still nothing can be done to them.in singapore don't mess with Lee dynasty.you will be found guilty every time.

Najib says 'tough' challenge awaits him

Prime Minister-in-waiting Najib Razak vowed to sharpen the country's competitive edge and regain the ruling party's two-thirds majority in Parliament when he takes the helm, even as financial turmoil takes a toll on the resource-rich nation.
The country faces lower revenues due to plummeting prices for its petroleum and palm oil as well as a drop in its overall exports and foreign investments that have been driving moderately high economic growth, said Najib, set to be in the saddle in March.
"It is going to be tough. I've got my hands full," the current deputy prime minister told AFP in an interview on the sidelines of the 21-member Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) summit which he attended.
"Malaysia has solid fundamentals but what is hurting us is in terms of our export market, commodity prices falling and the lack of FDIs (foreign direct investments) flowing in next year," Najib said.
He said Malaysia had to compete hard for investments with countries such as China and India.
"So, we really have to make ourselves much, much more competitive and attractive and our best hope is to stimulate domestic demand by introducing our fiscal stimulus and implementing projects that are productive and have high multiplying effects," he added.
Malaysia has joined countries such as China and Japan in introducing programs to stimulate growth amid financial turmoil, allocating RM7 billion to "high-impact" projects including roads, schools and low-cost housing.
The government has scaled down its growth target to 5.0 percent for 2008 and 3.5 percent next year although some experts believe the figure next year could be lower as the effects of the financial crisis take a bigger toll.
Najib confident nation can avert recession
Asked whether he was confident Malaysia could avert recession, Najib said, "I still think so, provided our execution of these stimulus projects is on track."
He did not expect any radical measures to contain a sliding Malaysian ringgit currency and also felt that any reduction of interest rates - which have been unchanged at 3.5 percent for more than two years - would not necessarily spur growth.
"The ringgit is sliding a bit but still reflects our fundamentals, so we don't envisage any drastic measures except to continue to operate on this present managed float basis," said Najib, who is also finance minister.
Any immediate interest rate reduction "is not going to lead to too much impact" on growth, he said, while pointing out that he would be guided by a special central bank panel on the issue.
Najib said Malaysia had learned its lessons well from the 1997-98 East Asian financial turmoil, when the country plunged into political and economic chaos.
"Our banks, for example, are very liquid, our NPL (non-performing loans ratio) is below 2.5 percent, our capital adequacy ratio is below the international norm," he said.
But as Malaysia steps up spending to prop up the economy amid sagging revenues, the government deficit is widening and expected to hit 4.8 percent of gross domestic product next year.
Najib appeared unperturbed.
"Historically, we went up to 5.6 (percent) but for as long as it is only for a one-year period, then the next year we can bring it down," he said.
Aim to recapture two-third majority
The son of Malaysia's second prime minister Abdul Razak, Najib has won the leadership of the ruling Umno unopposed, clearing the way for him to be appointed prime minister next March.
Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is being forced to step aside after the Barisan Nasional coalition that has ruled Malaysia for 51 years recorded its worst-ever election result in March, losing its two-thirds majority.
Najib said Umno would have to be strengthened by addressing "some of our internal shortcoming and weaknesses as evident during the last election.
"The party itself has to be rejuvenated in terms of our image and how the outside people perceive Umno and BN."
Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has warned that he has enough support from defecting lawmakers to topple the ruling coalition.
"Unless there is a mass defection which appears to be remote, we should be in power until the next general election when we have to face the public," Najib said.
"We're determined to do well and try to recapture our two-third majority that traditionally we have enjoyed, God willing."

tunku : during 97-98 crisis we survive because the crisis hits some of asian countries only.we have doubled our export during that time and pegged our currency.this time around it is global crisis, our export will decline badly and our economy will be at it worst next year.we really hope that najib form a special think tank to minimise the impact of the crisis. he can't just rely on the central bank panel only.they should have brainstorming session always.najib said that bringing down the interest rate won't help much but i think it will help especially in the property sector. as for the two-third majority wins, najib has to sweat till he dries.he must work real hard and get rid of all those germs in umno.he has 2 years to proof himself, economically and politically.

MPs Vent Frustration At Works Ministry

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- The Works Ministry came under fire in the Dewan Rakyat for among others rural road projects that had yet to start, were delayed or not upgraded.
Most of the MPs who spoke during winding up of debate on the Supply Bill 2009 concerning the ministry wanted definitive answers as to when the problems involving its projects would be resolved.
Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing (BN-Bintulu), who opened the salvo, asked why the Kapit-Sibu road, which was listed in the Eight Malaysia Plan (8MP), had yet to take off.
"The government has promised it would be built in 2002 but until now although RM30 million has been approved for it, nothing has been done. We don't even know whether the project is still on," he said.
Others who voiced similar concerns were Datuk Tajuddin Abdul Rahman (BN-Pasir Salak), Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi (BN-Batu Pahat), Dr Che Rosli Che Mat (Pas-Hulu Langat) and Teo Nee Ching (DAP-Serdang).
Apart from the issue of roads, the 10 per cent discount for post-midnight user by highway operator Plus also drew plenty of flak with most MPs wanting it to be reviewed.
Khalid Abdul Samad (Pas-Shah Alam) said the discount "made no sense at all".
Mohd Puad asked for the discount to be extended to all tolled higways and without any time restrictions, saying highway users were unhappy about "cosmetic changes".
Deputy Works Minister Datuk Yong Khoon Seng when winding up the debate, said the roads mentioned by the MPs were state roads and did not come under the purview of the ministry.
On toll discounts, he said this depended on the concessionaires agreeing to it.
The Dewan sits again tomorrow.

tunku : first of all the minister of works need to be replaced.the current minister is not fit to be a minister. he is more involved in his personal business in uk and bangladesh than being a minister.when he was the deputy works minsiter, he hardly in the ministry.always travelling to uk and bangladesh.he has given so many projects to his cronies, so other place need to wait till new fund/budget to come in.we hope najib will not retain this guy in his cabinet in the future.

Musa Slams Anwar Over Oil Royalty Issue

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman took to task Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) advisor Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for continuing to play up the oil royalty issue to further his political interests.
Musa said when Anwar was deputy prime minister and finance minister, he never championed the matter for Sabah.
Instead, he said, according to former Sabah cabinet minister Datuk Tham Nyip Shen, at one time when Anwar was acting Prime Minister, he (Anwar) had ordered the state government to renew 88 lottery licences, when in fact they had been revoked because the owners had violated laws.
According to Tham, he said, Anwar had threatened to fire any Sabah minister who was against the directive.
"Is this the type of leader, who is clearly an opportunist and a hypocrite, who we can hope will champion the cause of the people of Sabah?," he told reporters here.
As such, Musa, who is also state Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman, said he hoped all quarters, especially BN leaders would not fall into the opposition's trap of trying to use the oil royalty issue to gain political support in Sabah.
He said the Sabah BN government had never at any time neglected the interests of Sabahans in the matter.
During a visit to Sabah last week, Anwar had disputed a statement by Musa that the oil royalty agreement signed between the state and the federal government in 1976 did not have any provisions for a rate review.
Anwar had said that the rate could be reviewed and assured that the rates for Sabah and Sarawak would be raised from the five per cent at present to 20 per cent if the Pakatan Rakyat came into power.
Musa added that Umno and other state BN leaders had suggested to the federal government to review the rate.
"We have raised this matter in line with the wishes of the leaders and people. Although the rate has remained the same until now, we should not view it from the aspect of oil royalty alone," he said.
Musa said Sabah had received huge allocations from the federal government including RM20 billion under the Ninth Malaysia Plan, Sabah Development Corridor (RM2.3 billion), for road projects that ran into billions and other development programmes.
He added that the state government would continue with its efforts to bring development for the people and also help alleviate their burden during the present difficult economic situation.

tunku : sabah and sarawak should not fall into this moron's trap. he did nothing when he has all the means to do so especially when he was the finance minister.instead he helped his cronies to make billions and with that money, he is still surviving till now and running a party with that money too.now because wanting votes, he is promising moon and stars. yes may be he can give the 20% royalty to the both state but that's all they'll get.right now, though sabah and sarawak getting 5% royalty but there are getting the largest allocation under the budget and also Malaysia Plan.after all the oil production is not increasing, it is decreasing day by day.so don't believe this moron.

Don't Politicise Tourism Signboard Issue - Azalina

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- The Tourism Ministry is responsible for putting up tourism signboards and the action should not be politicised by state governments and the local authorities, said Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said.
She said to the ministry, it was best that the tourism signboards be in certain languages to enable tourists to understand the products.
"As for road signs, it is narrow thinking if having them in various languages is believed to attract tourists as they will not be able to understand the meaning, for instance, having the Jalan Alor road sign in Mandarin, Tamil and Arabic.
"What is important to tourists are signboards that provide information on a place or tourism product, including its history and background as they want to know what Malaysia has to offer," she said in reply to a supplementary question from Sim Tong Him (DAP-Kota Melaka) on efforts to popularise certain roads of historical significance like Melaka's Jonker Street and Heeren Street, in various languages.
Azalina, who is also Pengerang MP, said her ministry acknowledged that among the challenges faced was coming up with new products so that tourists would keep coming back.
"That was why it introduced the Malaysia My Second Home Programme (MM2H), then medical tourism and eco-tourism which are being aggressively promoted as other countries are doing the same for their tourism products," she said in reply to a question from Datuk Shamsul Anuar Nasarah (BN-Lenggong).
"We see the need for the promotion approaches for eco-tourism and conventions and exhibitions to be stepped up to bring in more tourists."
She said tourists were assets that would come back repeatedly while the economic returns to the country were immediate.
Earlier, Shamsul had earlier asked Azalina to clarify on the special allocations to develop tourist spots with a natural environment or rich in heritage like Hulu Perak including Lenggong.
Azalina said among the tourism products identified and being promoted were the Gendang Cave, Badak Cave, Lata Kekabu waterfall, Tasik Banding, Tasik Temenggor, Tasik Raban, Lenggong Archaeological Museum and "ikan pekasam" (pickled fish) from Tasik Raban.

tunku : yes,we hope that no one politicise the tourism signboard/billboard issue but we hope the minister don't use the signboard/billboard to promote herself , or the pm more than the tourism destinations. why the signboard need to put the big giant photos of the minister,the pm and dpm? this is not election signboard/billboard.after all, i guess the tourist will get scared if they really see the billboard with the minister's photo.

Show of support for ISA

KUALA LUMPUR: Islamic non-governmental organisations, heritage associations and Malay cultural organisations have got together under the Related Bodies Cooperation Network (Pewaris) and will go on a roadshow next month to urge various quarters to cease playing up racial issues.
The decision was made following a closed-door meeting of the coalition of 32 Muslim non-governmental organisations yesterday.
Vice-chairman Rahimudin Mat Harun said the coalition felt an urgent need to ask people not to raise racial issues.
Following the meeting, Pewaris members marched to the Jalan Tun Razak police station and lodged six reports.
Rahimudin said the reports were directed at those who spoke out against the Internal Security Act (ISA) and the fatwa against tomboys.
The reports were also directed against the Hindu Rights Action Force and those who had been questioning Malay rights.
Rahimudin said Pewaris was also in the midst of preparing a memorandum on these issues to be submitted to the home minister and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for a review.
Pewaris also urged the government to retain the ISA to prevent undesirable elements from threatening the country's harmony.
"Those who stirred up racial sentiments should be punished through the act to ensure that the country's peace and harmony is maintained," said Rahimudin.

tunku : ISA is still very much relevant to Malaysia and we can't just abolish it. without it, our country will be in chaos.anybody can just simply do anything without fear and above all the we can't escape racial tense.even other countries which have been condemning us had started using it. our opposition always look upon singapore,usa etc, there are using it too.

Umno To Take Several More Measures Against Money Politics

LIMA (Peru), Nov 24 (Bernama) -- UMNO will take several more measures to check money politics which should be tackled in a more comprehensive manner, said Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak.
Realistically, however, the problem could not be resolved in the very near future and efforts to eradicate it should be supported by a strong political will and commitment, he said when asked to comment on the statement by former Umno president Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad that money politics was still haunting Umno even when Najib takes over the party leadership.
He said this to Malaysian journalists after attending the last day of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Summit, here Sunday.
Najib, who is also the Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister, said efforts to address money politics should be 'supported by a strong political will and commitment in whatever way we can'.
Efforts in tackling money politics involved a process that needed a certain time frame, he said.
"Because even during the time of Tun Dr Mahathir, he had also initiated efforts to eliminate money politics and when he had relinquished the posts of prime minister and Umno president, he had expressed his disappointment for failing to check the problem," he added.

tunku : first of all, umno should change its election method. let the divisions nominates and vote for the leaders. by doing this it will cut down money politics by 60%. the G7 is the easy target , they will be offered and will ask to be offered. it is easy to bribe 1330 people than millions of members.it is not fair too that the 1330 decides for the millions.

Pahang Enlists Pensioners As Bloggers

TEMERLOH, Nov 23 (Bernama) -- The Pahang government has appointed three pensioners as bloggers to thwart slanderous comments and allegations posted on the Internet.
State Information, Science, Technology and Innovation Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Sharkar Shamsudin said the bloggers, who would be paid allowances, would be provided with computers and the Internet access in their homes.
The pensioners can capitalise on their experience to explain the actual situation to the people besides providing feedbacks and opinions to the government, he told reporters after attending the Senior Citizens Day organised by the Pahang Chapter of the Malaysian Government Pensioners' Association here Saturday.
"More bloggers will be appointed. We value pensioners' thoughts in our efforts to improve the state's economy and prosperity and unity of the people," he said.
Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob told the state legislative assembly recently that he was slandered by a blogger.

tunku : when you are slandered by blogger, you should appoint bloggers to counter attack.well that will be smart if you do it without announcing it to the whole world.this is very stupid strategy by adnan and his man.no one will listen to those bloggers explanations now as they will be labelled adnan's hired servant.

30 Per Cent Of Money Politics Complaints In Umno Are Slanderous

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 23 (Bernama) -- In the face of loud criticism about political bribery in Umno and the firm actions taken by the party to eradicate the scourge, it is said that the practice continues to be prevalent each time the party goes through the process of electing its leaders at various levels.
In the fervour of party members to contest posts in Umno, allegations are heard that some members bribe to get nominations, some demand bribes to nominate while there are also allegations of vote buying and selling.
As outsiders observe and mock cynically at what is happening, there are party members who are quick to point a finger at the Umno disciplinary board which is alleged to be slow to punish the guilty.
Is this allegation true and fair to the board?
This question was posed by Bernama to the board, and board member Datuk Mohd Hafarizam Harun, who represented the board's chairman Tan Sri Tengku Ahmad Rithaudeen Tengku Ismail, explained that the board was there not only to punish but had responsibility to ensure that only those who are guilty are penalised.
"We are aware of the many mumblings that we are not doing our job, do not take firm action, do not investigate, but in fulfilling their demands, we have a huge responsibility of ensuring that justice is done even if it takes time," he said.
Mohd Hafarizam, who is an Umno legal advisor, said the board is of the opinion that it is better that a guilty person escapes punishment rather than punishing an innocent person. "From my observations, of the number of complaints we receive, 30 per cent have elements of slander, or a frame-up, in that the loser wants to do in the winner and the like," he said. As such, said Mohd Hafarizam, the board takes the time to investigate and act on each complaint received.
"The fastest is three months as we now have an investigation panel. This time we are more effective and comprehensive and therefore it takes time," he said.
Elaborating further, Mohd Hafarizam said each complaint received is scrutinised and if there is basis and proof the investigation panel is sent to get information.
"The panel will determine if there is prima facie or not. If there is, we have an internal investigation, if not we close the case," he said.
He said the accused will be issued a show-cause letter and given between seven and 10 days to prepare his defence.
"At this stage, we again call the complainant and if the information provided is consistent with the investigation panel's report, a tribunal will hear the defence of the accused. After that the tribunal's members discuss and make a decision," he said.
The decision is tabled at a discipline board meeting chaired by Tengku Ahmad Rithaudeen before any punishment is decided on, Mohd Hafarizam said.
He stressed that it is difficult to determine if political bribery really takes place as the Malays are a community that has customs and is cultured.
"Umno is a Malay party. We have customs, when someone comes to our house we offer food, at functions we give souvenirs and the like. This to the discipline board is not wrong.
"What is wrong is when it becomes widespread and the main purpose in giving is to influence persons to give or not to give votes. And this is when the offence takes place," he said.
On the higher number of complaints in party elections this time, he said 40 per cent of them were on the running of the recently concluded branch and divisional meetings.
Asked if the problem had worsened in Umno, Mohd Hafarizam said it could not be measured based only on number of complaints received.
"I would not say it is worse as statistics show many complaints did not fall under our jurisdiction and some are just bare allegations and go under NFA (no further action). These together amount to about 300," he said.
Till Nov 21, the board had received 837 complaints and of the amount 181 were investigated, 75 had yet to be, 57 needed additional documents, 119 went under NFA, 114 were out of jurisdiction, 251 were new and five were under keep-in-view (KIV). Of the 181 cases investigated, 31 were found ruled without prima facie, 31 were called to show cause, 18 found guilty and 13 not guilty while the rest had not been decided on.
Mohd Hafarizam said even as there is firm action by the board, political bribery in Umno was difficult to stamp out unless party members change their mindsets.

tunku : only 30% are slanderous? that means 70% have basis,that's a lot.anyway, we hope that the disciplinary board do their job professionally and like what hafarizam said that it is better that a guilty person escapes punishment rather than punishing an innocent person which will be not fair but at the same time do not put the guilty person's case under NFA (no further action) or KIV.

Probe into angkasawan’s earnings to begin Tuesday

KUCHING: A probe is to begin on Tuesday into allegations that Malaysia’s first astronaut Datuk Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor Sheikh Mustapha has amassed RM1.2mil from payments for the talks he gave on his experience in space.
Deputy Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Fadillah Yusof said on Sunday the investigation would be conducted by a committee to be set up after the deadline for receiving all reports and complaints from the public ended tomorrow (Monday).
Speaking to reporters after launching a family day here, he confirmed that the ministry had received letters of complaint since the allegation surfaced but declined to divulge details.
“We urge the public not to come with only letters of complaint but to substantiate their complaints with solid evidence such as receipts as proof of payment, invoices and all written attachments or correspondence related to any event attended by him (Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor),” he said.
Failure to furnish solid evidence would leave the ministry with no choice but to regard the complaints as mere allegations, he said.
“If we don’t receive many complaints, we can conclude the investigation very fast but if there are many then it may take a little bit longer but our target is to complete (the probe) by early December,” he said when asked about the timeframe for the investigation.
Fadillah said the scope of the investigation would be, among other things, to determine whether the astronaut imposed fees for his appearance or talks and to recommend appropriate action to be taken by the ministry.
Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor is alleged to have charged RM8,000 per hour for talks from 150 corporations since his return from the ISS in October last year.
In response to the adverse reports, Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor has been quoted as saying he had accepted contributions when he spoke at events but denied allegations that he had received up to RM8,000 an hour for the talks. -- Bernama

tunku : i hope the deputy minister won't waste his time on this issue.as i had said earlier, if he charges, so what? if you don't want to pay don't call him(the angkasawan). why are we wasting our time in this stupid issue. there are bigger issues that need urgent attention from all of us like the economy, politics etc. why don't they investigate how they came up with the rm10.5mil for the ex gratia payment which were paid with the tax payer money.the so called money paid to the angkasawan is not from the tax payer money.

Teaching Of Science, Maths In English Should Be Continued, Says Dr M

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 22 (Bernama) -- The teaching of science and mathematics in English should be continued to ensure Malaysian students, especially the Malays, are not left behind, said former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
He said the change to teach the two subjects in English from Bahasa Malaysia was to ensure students could master them and at the same time become more proficient in English, the number one language in the world.
"It is not aimed at neglecting Bahasa Malaysia. Furthermore, most publications on science and mathematics are in English.
"Take for example the cellular phone. If foreigners manufacture them equipped with cameras and the short-messaging facility but the manual is in English, can we use our science which is in Bahasa Malaysia to make the same hand phone? By the time we are done with the translation we will be left far behind," he said at the "Malay Dilemma" discourse organised by the National Writers Association (Gapena) here today.
He also cited the dark ages of the Arabs where they had to learn everything from the Greeks.
"Obviously they could not ask the Greeks to translate their knowledge into Arabic. The solution then was for them to learn Greek so that they could have access to the knowledge in their possession. By doing this, the Arabs became a progressive race," he said, adding that the same applied in the current scenario in the country.
He also said being proficient in two languages was a great asset and cited himself as an example.
"I studied in a Malay school for two years before my father transferred me to an English school. Thereafter all my education was in English.
"Did I lose my ability to use Bahasa Malaysia? It will not signify the end of the Malay race if we are to learn in English as well," he said.

tunku : only narrow minded people will oppose to teaching maths and science in english.you won't be less malay ,chinese, indian or any other races if you learn the 2 subjects in english.it is for the benefit of our future generations.hope that the government will continue it.

Disappointed 'Iron Lady' shells deputy

Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned... especially if it is the 'Iron Lady'.
And Wanita Umno chief Rafidah Aziz's wrath was evident in her 10-page handwritten statement, punctuated with capital letters and underlined words.
Stopping short of calling it an act of betrayal, the 65-year-old politician expressed disappointment with her deputy of eight years Shahrizat Abdul Jalil for deciding to contest for the top post in the wing.
Rafidah who has vowed to meet her challenger in the ring penned her displeasure that the latter made a U-Turn after agreeing to a transition plan earlier.
"Since then (the announcement), none within the exco or outside it had questioned the plan," read the statement written in Bahasa Malaysia which was faxed to the media this afternoon.
"Shahrizat herself had stated in private meetings, in the exco, to the press, that she would not contest the Wanita chief post even if she was nominated.
"And that she would abide by the transition plan, that she would heed the advice of the top leaders and would fulfill her promises (by making public) statements such as 'my word is my honour'."
Shahrizat: Be bold to usher in change
Rafidah, who earned the nickname 'Iron Lady' while serving as trade minister for two decades before being dumped from the cabinet earlier this year, had hoped to remain as Wanita chief until next June.
According to the transition plan which drew flak from various quarters in the wing, Rafidah wanted to be reaffirmed as chief in the March party polls before handing over the reins to Shahrizat.
Initially, Shahrizat had vowed not to challenge her boss. But this changed when the 55-year-old politician received 77 nominations from the Umno divisions.
Yesterday, Shahrizat, in a two-paragraph statement, revealed that she would vie for the top post
In the second paragraph of the typed statement, she stressed on the importance of unity and called upon party members to be bold in bringing about change and renewal.
Now with the transition plan out of the window, Rafidah said she would defend her post and in the event of victory, would remain at the helm until the expiry of her new term in 2011.
'If they were responsible leaders ...'
Meanwhile, the vexed Wanita chief said she had no reason to expect any turmoil after the nominations process ended.
She said if those who were against the transition plan had been responsible leaders, they would have raised their objections earlier and the Wanita exco would have cancelled the plan.
"Undoubtedly, I would have allowed the divisions to nominate whomever they wanted for the posts of chief and deputy chief," she said.
"However, objections only emerged after certain figures received sufficient nominations to contest and used baseless arguments to justify their calls (to cancel the transition plan)," she said.
On the calls for her to bring forward the transition plan to before March, Rafidah said this would only ensure that Shahrizat became Wanita chief uncontested. "This would deny me of my right and the desire of 117 divisions who nominated me to hold the post until June 2009," she added.
'80 percent for Shahrizat'
Rafidah also called for a clean and orderly contest for all the posts in the wing.
"Do not create and spread slander and lies and do not seek to divide (the movement). Allah would determine the end of all things. No one is more powerful than Allah," she said.
In a related development, Bernama quoted several Wanita Umno leaders supporting Shahrizat's decision to stage the first contest for the job since 2000.
"Believe me, on the surface, many Wanita Umno division leaders may seem to be supporting Rafidah. But inside, more than 80 percent of them are for (Shahrizat)," said senator Sharifah Azizah Syed Zain.
Others said they were still hopeful that Rafidah would agree to bow out in March and avoid yet another battle for a top post in Umno, which has been in disarray since unprecedented losses in the March 8 general elections.

tunku : rafidah can't blame shahrizat for contesting against her as this is the wish of 77 divisions which compromise thousands of members. we too can't deny rafidah her right to contest as it is the wish of 117 divisions. so let them(the delegates) decide through voting. rafidah said there will be no transition any more and if she wins, she'll stay till 2011.now it is up to wanita to decide whether they still want rafidah to lead them till 2011.rafidah said that if she knew that there is voices against the transition , she would have allowed the divisions to nominate whomever they wanted for the posts of chief and deputy chief.here she is using her dictator style of leadership.it is all about her and up to her to allow or not to allow.by right it is the members right not hers.

Rafidah will defend Wanita chief post, June plan in question

KUALA LUMPUR: Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz says she will defend her Wanita Umno Chief post but remained mum on whether the June transition plan is still on.
In a handwritten 10-page letter Rafidah who is the Kuala Kangsar MP said she valued the nominations she received and would defend her post for the 2009 - 2011 term.
“I am leaving it to the delegates to decide on which leader they want for the 2009-2011 period,” she said.
Rafidah who was supposed to handover the post to her deputy Datuk Seri Shahrizat Abdul Jalil in June, three months after the March party election, said she was disappointed that the transition plan had been disputed and rejected now when it had been accepted by the exco earlier when it was first mooted.
On Thursday, Shahrizat who received enough nominations to contest the Wanita Chief post said she would take on Rafidah for the post.

Rafidah: We'll meet in the ring

The two leading ladies of ruling party Umno have declared war over the influential post of head of the women's wing, after the grassroots turned against incumbent Rafidah Aziz.
Rafidah, a fiery political veteran who served as trade minister for two decades before being dumped from the cabinet earlier this year, had hoped to hold onto the position until next June.
In a transition plan criticised by many in the women's wing, she wanted to be reaffirmed as chief in March party polls before handing over to her deputy Shahrizat Abdul Jalil.
Shahrizat had insisted she would not challenge Rafidah, but after being nominated as women's wing chief by dozens of Umno divisions in the run-up to the internal polls, she threw down the gauntlet late yesterday.
"Wanita Umno must be united in strengthening the party and be bold in bringing about change and renewal," she said in a brief statement.
Rafidah, a fearsome character who made a splash on the international stage during her years as Malaysia's trade chief, immediately accepted the challenge and said she would stay on for another three years if successful.
"We will meet in the arena in March," said the "Iron Lady" of Malaysian politics, according to the New Straits Times newspaper.
80 percent rooting for Shahrizat
The state news agency Bernama quoted several Wanita Umno leaders who supported Shahrizat's decision to stage the first contest for the job since 2000.
"Believe me, on the surface, many Wanita Umno division leaders may seem to be supporting Rafidah Aziz. But inside, more than 80 percent of them are for (Shahrizat)," said Senator Sharifah Azizah Syed Zain.
Others said they were still hopeful that Rafidah would agree to bow out in March and avoid yet another battle for a top post in the party, which has been in disarray since unprecedented losses in general elections this year.
Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has agreed to stand down in March, handing over to his deputy Najib Abdul Razak - triggering an unprecedented showdown for the number-two job.
The influential position of youth wing chief is also up for grabs, with contenders including Abdullah's son-in-law, who is vying against the son of former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad.-AFP


tunku : suddenly all the transition plan is off.so we can see clearly what was rafidah's motive.she want's to stay on.well, now let the battle begins but we hope it will be a fair and clean battle between them.rafidah.....no words for her.