KLA doctor accused of malingering was simply waiting for next patient

A Kuala Lumpur Hospital doctor accused of “goofing off” was simply reading a newspaper while waiting for his next patient, Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said today.
The visibly upset minister said Deputy Federal Territories Minister Datuk M. Saravanan should have investigated the incident before hurling accusations.
Liow said an indepth investigation revealed that the doctor, a houseman, had completed examining a patient and had picked up the newspaper his patient had left behind.
“The houseman was reading the headlines when Saravanan walked in,” he said.
Liow said there were only eight patients at the time of incident at the non-critical zone of the Kuala Lumpur Hospital’s Emergency Department and not 20 as claimed by Saravanan.
“Three of them were waiting to be seen while the rest were asthmatics who were being treated. The others in the room were the relatives of the patients,” Liow told reporters at his ministry.
Saravanan on Sunday claimed that he was at the department about 10.30am to see a university student who was knocked down by a car driven by his driver.
He said he was waiting for the girl to be treated and realised that none of the patients were being called in by the doctors, and when he opened the door to a treatment room found a doctor reading a newspaper and another “doing his own stuff”.
Liow said a girl by the name of M. Revathy, 23, was treated at the non critical zone about 9.25am following a road accident.
“The girl was examined and treated by 10.10am. Even an X-ray was performed on her leg to ascertain fractures but she suffered none,” he said.
He said after performing the necessary procedures on her leg and prescribing medication, Ravathy was placed on a wheelchair at the Emergency Department.
“It was at 10.40am that Saravanan entered the treatment room and reprimanded the doctors, accusing one of them for reading a newspaper while some 20 people were waiting outside to be seen,” Liow said.
Liow added that patients normally waited about 15 minutes in the non-critical zone to see a doctor.

tunku : saravanan was trying to be popular but he hit the nail at the wrong place.he must apologize to the doctors if he has some value in him or best for him to resign.it was very shameful act from a deputy minister. the doctors are human too and they(government's doctors) are paid peanuts and they work for long hours .don't forget about that. next time saravanan should think before opening his big mouth.this is lesson to all.

Anwar's New Hope For Dayak Sarawak

PKR has name their new team few days ago and surprisingly with anwar the moron's new hope for Dayak Sarawak only named 2 representative from sarawak. pkr and dap never walk the talk.They are only out there to destroy the peace and stability in sarawak. we hope the Dayak from sarawak will learn from this appointments.They only named Paul Kadang as one of the four deputy secretary general and Baru Bian (lawyer) as a committee member in political bureau. Are the Dayaks willing to give their future in these people's hand? I don't think that the Dayaks will as they are smart enough.They know the reality and they had showed that recently in Batang Ai's by election.By the way why dominic ng is not in the pkr's new team list? he is the chief but not listed.It's time for dominic ng to get out from pkr.

Strong Government Needed For Economic Recovery: Tun Dr. M

BEIJING - Malaysia must return to having a strong government to manage the global financial crisis and place the country back on the growth path, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said.
Recalling the Asian crisis over a decade ago, the former prime minister said the country could implement radical and unorthodox measures because the government had a two-thirds majority in Parliament to support its policies.
The calm political situation then also allowed the government to think through how it could tackle the crisis which had affected Malaysians of all races, he said.
"It is important that we try to return to a situation where the government is strong, where the government can have a two-thirds majority," he said after delivering a lecture at the prestigious Peking University on lessons for Asia from the global meltdown on Tuesday.
"Hopefully, if the present government navigates well the economy as well as politics, at the next election, we can win a two-thirds majority and go back to the growth path we had for the past 50 years."
Dr Mahathir, who are here for a three-day private visit, was asked by a Malaysian student if the present economic crisis would lead to political crisis back home.
He said a government without a strong majority and beset with demonstrations would not be able to tackle a crisis when it was being attacked and uncertain of its position. "But I think if people are sensible enough, they will give sufficient support to the government," he said.
He was accompanied by Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali, Malaysian ambassador to China Datuk Syed Norulzaman Kamarulzaman and business tycoon Tan Sri Mokhtar Al-Bukhary to the lecture attended by about 200 Masters students at the 111-year-old university's National School of Development.
Dr Mahathir is a guest of the Chinese People''s Institute of Foreign Affairs. He last visited China in 2005, two years after he stepped down as prime minister after 22 years. - BERNAMA

tunku : we too believe that if najib and his new team can navigates well the economy as well as politics, at the next election, BN can win a two-thirds majority like it has been doing all these while except in 2008.

Mukhriz: No Reason To Worry, NEP Will Continue To Be Given Focus

KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Bernama) -- There is no reason for Bumiputeras to worry as the New Economic Policy (NEP) will continue to be given focus by the government despite the liberalisation of 27 services sub-sectors recently, said Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir, today.
"We should not be unduly concerned that our policies like the NEP will be slowly loosened up," he told the media after officiating the Oil, Gas and Petrochemical 2009 Forum and Expo, here, today.
He said that although the NEP had given special focus to Bumiputeras, its gains had been enjoyed by all other communities as well.
"Therefore, the NEP will continue to be given focus and at the same time with the opening up of our market, I am confident we will see many more new opportunities not only in terms of jobs with the entry of foreign direct investments, but also an increase in our capacity to compete with foreign companies and export our products and services."
Mukhriz said the country's market was in fact already opened and that many local traders were already prepared to compete with foreign investors.
"Our market has indeed been open, it's just that the policies had yet to be standardised and that is what the government has done -- standardise the policies practiced."

tunku : glad to hear that NEP will still be given special focus by the government.while the government has liberalised many sectors, we hope that certain group will not ask for more and more which will make some feels their rights are in jeopardize.

Mukhriz: New approach needed to win Penanti

SHAH ALAM: Out-of-the-box thinking must be applied if Barisan Nasional wants to win the Penanti by-election.
Jerlun MP Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir said such thinking had not been deployed before by Barisan.
“On a personal opinion, it is good to have a BN candidate challenge the seat but we have to employ a new approach that will keep the Opposition guessing on our moves,” he said after flagging off Naza bikes to Iran and Brunei at Section 15 here on Tuesday.
He added that a number of Pakatan Rakyat grassroots members were former Umno members who knew the party’s (Umno) strategies used during campaigning.
Mukhriz, who is Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister, said the Opposition had been harping on non-issues during by-elections.
On the by-election in Penanti, he said his personal view was that it would be a waste of funds and charged that PKR was trying to gain political mileage with it.

tunku : the opposition knows all the bn tactics very well, for 50 years they have been fighting against bn. time has come for bn to use new strategies and change ammo.dump all the old arsenals and bring on the new one.we hope bn will not use the same old boring way of campaigning in penanti that if they will fight for the seat.the best way is to approach the voters one to one.bn must think 10 steps ahead if they would want to win the election.

Pakatan protests EC decision

KUALA LUMPUR: The Pakatan Rakyat urged the Election Commission to revoke its ruling that bans the setting-up of voter information booths or “pondok panas” by political parties during polling.
PAS elections director Datuk Mustafa Ali said the Pakatan alliance will seek a meeting with the Commission on Thursday to ask it to explain its reason for imposing the ruling, which will be enforced during the Penanti by-election on May 31.
He said Pakatan also questioned the need to limit the number of people or supporters attending nomination and polling days, and also when the results are announced.
“We have had no problems in past general elections or by-elections ... except for one or two heated situations between opposing party supporters.
“These are minor issues that shouldn’t be treated as a big problem,” he told reporters after chairing a meeting with senior officials from Pakatan alliance members PAS, PKR and DAP at the PAS headquarters here Tuesday.
PKR vice-president R. Sivarasa said the information booths are useful for political parties to help check the voters’ list.
“We agree that campaigning should stop at midnight on the eve of polling, and there should not be campaigning on polling day.
“But political parties have the right under the law to check the voters’ list through the pondok panas,” he added.
Both were commenting on Commission chairman Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof’s statement on Monday that the booths would be banned starting from the Penanti by-election.
Abdul Aziz said this was because the number of supporters making last-ditch appeals to voters were increasing, while tense moments had occurred when opposing party supporters turn up in bigger numbers.

tunku : i think it is the best thing EC had suggested. There is no point for these pondok panas and the peraih undi on polling day.They can campaign how they like with the rule of law before the polling day.On the polling day let the voters go to the polling centre with a more relax and clear mind.They have decided much earlier who they wanted to vote, they won't change their mind at the polling centre.For me there should not even be marching of the candidates and their supporters to the nomination centre during nomination day.it does not bring any good to both parties.i guess the political parties in malaysia should change with the time.we are moving to be a developed nation and this is not the way of a developed nation.

Najib Continues With Breathtaking Reforms

KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 (Bernama) -- Barely three weeks after taking office as Malaysia's sixth Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Abdul Razak has been able to bring into shape, several major reforms which he has promised Malaysians.
He revised several policies and announced the liberalisation of some sectors of the economy to level the playing field of opportunities.
Since taking office on April 3, Najib has announced a series of major policy changes, including the lifting of some regulations designed to benefit bumiputera but had deterred entrepreneurship and foreign investments.
This included scrapping a 30 per cent Bumiputera ownership requirement for investment in some services sector to help boost the country's flagging economy, with immediate effect.
It will benefit part of the services sector, including computer services and health-care sectors.
As part of his first major policy reforms, Najib also announced that five foreign law firms would be allowed to offer services in Islamic finance.
Economists and analysts have been watching closely, whether the government would gradually liberalise more sectors, particularly the more sensitive sectors such as retail and banking, which also have certain ownership requirements but the government is seen as trying to avoid liberalising these sectors to avoid a political backlash.
However, judging from the speed and determination of the new administration, it seems that they are all out for liberalisation in this sector to turn the nation into a more attractive place for investment.
"In fact, we are very encouraged, quite a number of far-sighted decisions are now being undertaken at a very quick pace since he assumed premiership. This is very encouraging. If it follow through, it will have a positive impact on the sentiments, more importantly the investor confidence," said Chief Economist, RAM Consultancy Service Dr Yeah Kean Leng. "Less than 100 days, there are breathtaking changes. If we can follow through, it can be achieved in less than 100 days," he added.
The New Economic Policy (NEP) was introduced in the 1970s to provide for equitable distribution of the economic wealth, which required businesses to have certain percentage of Bumiputera ownership or quota on the hiring of Bumiputeras.
Foreign investors found this policy to be restrictive, in terms of their businesses.
Political analysts said Najib was smart and bold in continuing this anti- affirmative-action jag, as they said he was aware of its political implications and knew that it was also the only way forward, particularly in the current bad global economic situation.
More importantly, Najib's breathtaking reforms are what the public has been expecting all this while as the way forward for this multi-racial but small country which is still very much dependent on natural resources, plantation and manufacturing as the main sources of income.
"It's a practicality. You have no choice. Either you do something to give it a chance, or you wait till it dies naturally," said James Wong, a former politician and political analyst.
Wong said, since the NEP was announced in 1971, Malaysia's preferential treatment of Bumiputera in education and business was seen as hampering growth.
"If the government can move past these, its economy will benefit most," he added.
Najib took the reform agenda to a new high today when he allowed up to 70 per cent on foreign shareholdings in insurance and investment banking, as part of measures to boost the finance industry under the economic liberalisation package.
His latest move seems to be in tandem with the promises he made during an interview with Financial Times, just before he took over the premiership, that he wanted Malaysia to move away from its dependence on electronics exports and commodities.
Although opposition lawmakers and political parties are expecting wider reforms, DAP member of parliament Tony Pua has described Najib's announcements as a "baby's step forward" to unwind long-standing policies which hindered investments.
In the past, Pua said state agencies and government-linked companies imposed strict guidelines on procurement of goods and services from private firms, requiring them to comply with Bumiputera equity rules and staff quotas.
For instance, he said, some banks engaged only legal firms which have at least 50 per cent Malay equity.
Despite perceptions that the government was unwilling to scrap policies which benefited Bumiputera, for fear of alienating them as they formed the main support of the ruling party, some politicians believe Najib would continue with his reforms even if he faced fiery criticisms from his own party.
As pointed out by UMNO MP for Pulai Datuk Nur Jazlan Mohamed, the people should not worry too much about Najib's reforms and should play their part in a positive way to accept his challenge.
"We should focus on prospering the economy and commit less politicking, if we love the country and love each other. His (Najib) hard work and Barisan Nasional's efforts will be judged by the people, come the next general election.
"So, let's give the Najib Administration time and space to do its job. As for us, let's get on with making us Malaysians strong as one people without letting any policy divide us," Nur Jazlan wrote in a commentary posted on a website.


Liberalisation Will Help Malaysia's Plan As An Islamic Financial Hub

JOHOR BAHARU, April 27 (Bernama) -- The liberalisation of the financial services sector is important not only for the economic development of the country but will also help Malaysia's efforts to become an Islamic financial hub, Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said.
"We are ready...more so if Malaysia wants to become an Islamic financial hub where the potential value runs into trillions of dollars," he said.
He said Bank Negara had carried out detailed study on the liberalisation move and the government which had been briefed during the National Economic Council meetings did not see any problems arising in the sector.
Muhyiddin said this when asked to comment on the liberal measures announced for the financial services sector by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in Putrajaya on Monday.
He was speaking to reporters after a ground breaking ceremony for a housing project for the people of Kampung Skudai Kiri, in Bandar Uda Utama, 12km from here Monday.
Muhyiddin said without the liberalisation of its financial and services sector, Malaysia may continue to remain behind other Asean member countries. It is currently in the eighth place among 10 Asean members in this area.
The services sector contributes 52 percent to Malaysia's gross domestic product (GDP) while other countries are recording 60-76 percent contribution from their services sector, he said.
He also dismissed fears that the entry of foreign companies with the liberalisation will drown local companies, especially Bumiputera companies.
Local companies and Bumiputera companies are prepared and capable of competing and they should not be underestimated as many of them are more advanced than foreign companies and have made their presence in countries like Dubai, Kuwait, India, China and Pakistan, he said.
"Liberalisation will give the capable local and Bumiputera companies the opportunity to work together with foreign companies," he said.
He also called on the parties still in doubt of the market liberalisation plan to expand their thinking and see from the context of a larger economic pie that could bring greater benefits to the country and entrepreneurs.
Muhyiddin also said the development of housing projects will continue to be in the country's agenda of property development without leaving out any single segment of the society.
Meanwhile, the new housing programme, to be developed by Uda Holdings Bhd, will involve the construction of eight affordable blocks of flats with residential units measuring 78.97 sq metres and another four blocks of flats offering units sized 69.68 sq metres.
Work on the flats is expected to take off mid August with the total of 1,416 units to be ready in 24 months.
Supporting facilities in the area will include recreational centre, football field, surau, shops, as well as a reading hall for the people.
A total of 682 families from Kampung Skudai Kiri and 500 families from Kampung Usaha Jaya are expected to gain from the development of the flats.

tunku : while we support the liberalisation move by the government on certain sectors but let us not forget that NEP is still very much relevant.we hope that people should be thankful to the government for their smart move but should not push them to abolish NEP. NEP is still very much needed. i am sure najib has taken everything into consideration before making the decision on liberalisation.the people should support the move as it will benefits the people and the country.

Umno Youth Members Urged To Join NGOs

KUANTAN, April 26 (Bernama) -- Umno Youth members have been urged to join at least one non-governmental organisation (NGO) in an effort to get closer to the people.
Deputy chief Datuk Razali Ibrahim said this would make them understand the problems and wants of people in their respective areas.
"Youth members must not only move in their political circle but must also be involved in social activities to get closer to the people," he said at an autism awareness programme here today.
Razali who is also Deputy Youth and Sports Minister said the proposal would be discussed at a course for youth leaders at Janda Baik, Bentong next week.
He said although Umno youth members had been involved with NGOs, their presence was not that evident.

tunku : it is a very good suggestion from razali.umno youth should not only join the NGOs but also to find great potential leaders in NGO's and bring them in umno youth.Umno needs these people in order to rejuvenate the party and they are well experience in their specific fields.

Mukhriz Welcomes Change In Kedah Umno Leadership

ALOR SETAR, April 26 (Bernama) -- Jerlun MP Datuk Mukhriz Tun Dr Mahathir has described the change in the Kedah Umno leadership as apt and something which should be supported by all party members.
He said the appointment of Umno vice-president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal as the Kedah Umno liaison committee chairman by Prime Minister and Umno president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak should be seen as an effort to regain the people's confidence and trust in Umno.
"I welcome this change because I think it is a strategy to regain the confidence of the people. Perhaps, the previous method was not to the people's liking and in keeping with their aspirations," he told reporters at a dinner in conjunction with the annual general meeting of the Malaysian Malay Chamber of Commerce, here last night.
Mukhriz, who is deputy international trade and industry minister, said he hoped that Shafie, who is rural and regional development minister, could bring a breath of fresh air to Kedah Umno and help resolve grassroots problems so that the Barisan Nasional (BN) could win back the state from the opposition.
He said Shafie had a good relationship with Kedah Umno and had wide experience at the national level.

tunku : it is a very wise decision to change kedah's umno leadership.it would not be enough to just change the chairman and the deputy but also the others who had failed.the other important post would be the information chief of the state.kedah umno is filled with expired or rejected leaders which need to be changed urgently.if it is not done than i don't think shafie could bring much changes there.i think kedah umno should appoint mukhriz to it's committee member as he can contribute effectively to the state.

Umno Will Use Cyberspace To Attract Young Voters

PONTIAN, April 25 (Bernama) -- Umno information chief Ahmad Maslan said the party is aware of the important role of the new media in moulding the political minds of the young and will use cyberspace to attract voters.
"The new media has been very effective in influencing the young politically.
We need to find new ways to engage the young in cyberspace.
"It must be done fast as studies showed that the internet has played an important role in influencing young voters," he said after opening the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meeting of Sekolah Rendah Ayer Baloi here Saturday.
Ahmad said he would be meeting the Umno wings, academicians and non-governmental organisations (NGO) to find effective ways to engage the young in cyberspace.
The Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department said Umno would continue to hold meetings, talks and seminars and use the print and electronic media to disseminate information.
"We will use unconventional ways that will be appreciated by the people to show that we are here to serve," said Ahmad who spent a night in the home of a Felda settler in Kulaijaya last week.
He did not discount possibility that key performance indicators (KPI) be used on the party information machinery just like that implemented for ministers and deputy ministers.
"Umno information bureau at branch, division, state and national level may be asked to list their programmes for the month and year.
"I will also seek the view of former information chiefs Tan Sri Muhammad Taib, Tan Sri Yusof Noor and Datuk Mustapa Mohamed," he added.

tunku : this is where umno should really put extra effort and capture the cyberspace to attract the new generation. they can be voters or none voters, umno must reach them and explain to them the party struggles and also most important thing is to counter the allegations and lies spread by the oppositions.bn must have a great team for cyberspace. bn is way behind in cyberspace compare to opposition and that is the major factor where they gain lots of votes during last election.bn must engage people who are specialize in this asap.hope this new information chief of umno will make great changes with greater impact.

Najib wants immediate attention to ease city congestion

KUALA LUMPUR: Three weeks after Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak went down to the ground to visit three localities in the heart of the city, the prime minister Saturday sprung another surprise when he went on a walkabout at the bustling Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman (Jalan TAR) and Puduraya here.
However, he was not happy with the traffic congestion and the inefficiency of the public facilities during his one-hour inspection, according to Federal Territory Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin.
Najib, who was dressed casually in a brown shirt and beige pants, arrived at Jalan TAR, near Semua House at 3.20pm, accompanied by Raja Nong Chik, his deputy Datuk M. Saravanan and Kuala Lumpur city mayor Datuk Ahmad Fuad Ismail.
At Jalan TAR, which is famed for its textiles and jewellery shops, Najib was briefed by Ahmad Fuad about a proposed multi-storey carpark to be located near Semua House, and other upgrading plans for the area.
He then spent about 30 minutes walking along the street where he also stopped to chat with the business people and the public there.
Later, he hitched a ride on the crowded LRT (he had to stand) from Masjid Jamek station to the Plaza Rakyat station where he walked to the infamous ever congested Puduraya where the express bus terminal for the northern and southern zones is located.
Taking break from the sweltering heat, Najib then stopped by one of the stalls in the building for a cool drink.
Najib, flanked by a phalanx of bodyguards and an entourage of officials, also attracted a large crowd of onlookers, who wasted no time snapping photographs of the nation's sixth premier.
An excited woman, armed with her cameraphone and squeezing her way through the crowd, was heard saying: "Saya mahu ambil gambar perdana menteri saya" (I want to take pictures of my prime minister).
Later, Najib inspected the long-abandoned Plaza Rakyat building project located next to Puduraya before departing at 4.25pm.
"He wants the project to resume as soon as possible," Raja Nong Chik said.
The project, which initially cost RM1.2 billion, had been abandoned for 12 years after it changed hands many times. Its current developer is Global Upline.
The Plaza Rakyat project was supposed to comprise three buildings - a 79-storey, 49-storey and 21-storey for offices, condominiums and a budget hotel.
On the upgrading plan undertaken by Kuala Lumpur City Hall to ease congestion problems in Jalan TAR, Ahmad Fuad said a project for a multi-storey car park was already in the pipeline.
He said the contract for the project on a 0.5 hectare land (near Semua House) had already been tendered out and it was expected to begin soon.
"It's a 13-storey building and is estimated to cost RM50 million. It will house a multi-storey carpark, hawker and trader centres, a multipurpose hall and office space," he added.- Bernama

tunku : we hope that najib will not only make surprise visit to the ground in kl only. he should go around the country too, may be he'll do that from time to time.we hope not only the pm and dpm goes around but all the ministers and deputy ministers to go to the ground always and listen to the people.if they can do this, i am sure next election bn will win it with 2/3 majority without any problem.same goes for all the leaders of bn,member of parliaments and states assembly members , go to the ground and be with the people.the key word is BE WITH THE PEOPLE.

Mukhriz: Entrepreneurs must be ready for open market

BUTTERWORTH, April 24 - Malaysian entrepreneurs must be ready to compete in a more open market with the decision of the government to liberalise the markets of 27 sub sectors in the service industry.
Making this call, Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Mukhriz Tun Mahathir said the decision to liberalise will bring about positive effects to the country's market and entrepreneurs.
"With the existence of such an open market, foreign direct investments (FDIs) will increase and this indirectly will provide more jobs to skilled workers and help raise the income of our people," he told reporters during his visit of the Star CNC Teknologi's factory here today.
He said the government on its part will strengthen the help it has been giving through training and financial assistance to entrepreneurs in order to face the rising challenges.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak announced the liberalisation of the 27 services sub sectors with the abolishment of the condition of local equity shareholdings in the sectors as a move to attract more foreign investments, technologies and the creation of high level jobs.
With this, the 30 per cent local equity condition for the involved subsectors will no longer apply. Mukhriz said the question of a 30 per cent Bumiputera equity should not arise as the equity allocation also covers non-Bumiputera equity.
"Local companies should be ready to face an open market and be prepared to export their products or services out of the country," he said.
He also reiterated that the decision was not made in haste but followed a long study, and in line with Malaysia's commitment to the ASEAN agreement.
"The decision was made after discussions with the parties involved including the Ministry of International Trade and Industry and the representatives of Bumiputera entrepreneurs themselves," he said. - Bernama

tunku : a lot of people think that the decision was made too fast but they had been studying it for quite sometimes and also held many many discussions with various parties especially with the bumiputeras entrepreneurs.we must not jump up and down.this is for the best for all. it's win win situation.it is only for 27 SUB SECTORS.

Major Changes in Umno

Umno to hold special assembly to amend constitution .

KUALA LUMPUR: The Umno Supreme Council agreed on Friday to hold a special general assembly at the end of this year to amend party constitution pertaining to the party's election process to make it more transparent, open and democratic.
Umno president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said a committee had been set up to deal with suggestions on what was needed to be amended and other changes in the party.
The committee, he said, would then bring all the suggestions to the attention of the Supreme Council before tabling them at the special general assembly.
"The Supreme Council has also taken into consideration the changes announced by the government and I have also briefed them on the liberalisation policy and the dissolution of the Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Ministry.
"The Supreme Council understands why such decisions were made. This does not mean that there is a change in our commitment but rather, to do away with overlapping of functions among ministries so that they can be more focused.
"We will continue with the policy of the ministry," he told a news conference after chairing the Umno Supreme Council meeting Friday, Bernama reported.
Najib also commented on the appointments to the supreme council, which is listed below.
He said the party’s vice-presidents were qualified to be appointed as state liaison chiefs.
He said if they were qualified to be elected as vice-presidents they would surely be qualified to become Umno state liaison chiefs.
This is the first time the three party vice-presidents were also made to lead Umno at the state level.
They are Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein (Terengganu), Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (Penang) and Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal who is now the Kedah head.
On whether this was because there were no better candidates for the posts, he said:
“It was based on my considerations. As I feel there is a need to appoint our vice-presidents, so I appointed them.”
Six Umno state liaison chiefs were dropped. They are Datuk Ahmad Said (Terengganu), Datuk Seri Zulhasnan Rafique (Federal Territory), Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib (Selangor), Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid (Kedah), Tan Sri Annuar Musa (Kelantan) and Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi for Penang.
Najib has taken on Selangor while letting go of the Perak state liaison chief post which has been handed over to Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mohd Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir.

THE NEW LINE-UP:

Secretary-General: Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor
Treasurer-General: Datuk Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah
Information Chief: Ahmad Maslan

State Liaison Chiefs:
Selangor: Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak replaces Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib.
Federal Territory: Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin replaces Datuk Seri Zulhasnan Rafique.
Terengganu: Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein; Mentri Besar Datuk Ahmad Said is deputy chief.
Perak: Datuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir
Kedah: Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal
Kelantan: Datuk Mustapa Mohamad
Penang: Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi
Negri Sembilan: Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan
Malacca: Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam
Johor: Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman
Pahang: Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob
Perlis: Datuk Seri Md Isa Sabu
Sabah: Datuk Seri Musa Aman

Appointed Supreme Council members:
- Datuk Kamilia Ibrahim (Wanita)
- Datuk Razali Ibrahim (Youth)
- Dr Wan Norashikin Wan Nordin (Puteri)
- Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim
- Datuk Seri Nazri Abd Aziz
- Datuk Jamil Khir Baharom
- Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin
- Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam
- Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz
- Datuk Abdul Ghani Othman
- Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim

tunku : it is a very good move and much awaited for umno to hold a special general assembly at the end of this year to amend party constitution pertaining to the party's election process to make it more transparent, open and democratic. we hope the party leadership will study thoroughly other matters that need amendments too.
it was a good decision too by najib to make major changes in the states leadership ( 7 + 1 states). hope those state will come out stronger.while there were good changes there were also some bad choice made by najib but we can't expect it will be 100% to our expectation.80% good enough. i just can't understand why nazri aziz appointed when he had made it clear that he will not hold the mt seat.maybe the close connection to najib .
i don't know much about ahmad maslan but hopes that he'll be the effective ketua penerangan , not like the previous one. we want the ketua penerangan to be super active and smart.
i am happy that mahadzir khaled and annuar musa is out.thank god.

Bumis Ready To Face Challenges Post-liberalisation

KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 (Bernama) -- Bumiputera players are ready to experience more capacity building, further integration with international firms and have more export opportunities following the liberalisation of the 27 services sub-sectors.
Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) secretary general, Tan Sri Rahman Mamat, said the liberalisation was done in consultation with the players who expressed their readiness to compete in an open market.
"With globalisation, we have no choice. The equity issue needs to be addressed in a different form by providing capacity building, integrating with international firms and giving export opportunities.
"These are much more meaningful to the Bumiputera players. It would also create a conducive agreement not only for foreign direct investment but also for domestic direct investment," he told reporters after the book review session at the ministry here Thursday.
Rahman said the liberalisation would also help Malaysia facilitate its trade negotiations such as the free trade agreements, of which the ministry was "tying some loose ends" for some.
"We have a great potential to move forward. All the Asean countries are opening up. There's no point of joining groupings if we don't enjoy the market access," he said.
Rahman said the ministry was also committed to Bumiputera interest in the services sector and would encourage them to participate in supplying the requirements of foreign firms based here.
He said the liberalisation would help create more higher-ranking jobs for local graduates thus resulting in higher income, as opposed to manufacturing which has given mainly low-ranking opportunities.
"The services sector is going to be the future growth of the country. Most developed countries see services contributing 70-80 percent of their gross domestic product," he said.
Rahman said export was the largest contributor to services sector compared to merchandise, and it registered more than RM102 billion last year.
"If we can increase our foreign direct investment to about 60 percent, our target of becoming top 10 trading nations would be achieved," he said.
He said the export sector was expected to pick up in the third quarter this year on signs that China, which was one of Malaysia's most important trading partner, has started to pick up.
Rahman said MITI was monitoring all the stimulus packages in China as the country has contributed to the recent uptrend in the electrical and electronics demand from small and medium entrepreneurs in Penang.
He said among the areas where Bumiputera players were strong and competitive were information and communication technologies, logistics, transportation and tourism.

tunku : it is time for the bumis to go out on their own as we all know that one day the NEP will be abolished. so from now they should start getting use to it bit by bit. we have seen lots of the 30% share monopolized by certain groups only.by opening up the market i believe more bumi players will make greater impact to the growth of the economy. there will still be assistance from the government for them. the government did not abolished the assistance provided to them.it is there.if the players are genuine they will grab the opportunities lies infront them.

PM: 30% Bumi quota for 27 sub-sectors scrapped

PUTRAJAYA: The government has removed the 30% bumiputera equity requirement for the 27 services sub-sectors with immediate effect in line with the Asean trade liberalisation and efforts to boost the services sector.
Datuk Seri Najib Razak said on April 22 the sub-sectors covered health and social services, tourism services, transport services, business services and computer and related services.
“There will be no more 30% bumiputera equity requirement for these sub-sectors,” he said at a press conference at the Prime Minister’s office.
The move to liberalise the services sector, which was first announced during the presentation of the Second Stimulus Package on March 10, was also expected to attract more investments, bring in more professionals and technology and strengthen the competitiveness of the sector.
Najib, who is also Finance Minister, said the government was intensifying its efforts, with the hope that the services sector will increase its contribution to the GDP to 60%.
The services sector contributed 55% to the gross domestic product in 2008, of which 47.6% came from non-government services. The sector also accounts for 57% of the total employment in Malaysia.
“Recognising the growth potential in the services sector, the government has decided to immediately liberalise 27 services sub-sectors, with no equity conditions imposed,” said Najib.
Prior to this, companies in the services sector must offer 30% of its equity to Bumiputera.
However, Najib did not include the financial services. When asked, he explained that the financial services liberation plan will be announced next week.
The government was confident these initiatives would not adversely affect the domestic services industry.
To help support the industry in capacity building and opening up of the export markets, a development fund of RM100 million was established under the First Economic Stimulus Package.
The fund will be run by Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (Mida). To facilitate investments in the services sector, a national committee for approval of investments has been created under Mida.
“This committee will act as a focal point to receive and process applications of investments in the services sector excluding financial services, air travel, utilities, economic development corridors, multimedia super corridor and Bionexus status companies and distributive trade,” said Najib.
According to him RM50.1 billion of investments in the services sector was approved in 2008, with foreign investments totaling 11%. For exports in 2008, RM102.1 billion was recorded while imported services amounted to RM99.8 billion.
“Malaysia recorded its first surplus in this sector in 2007. And according to WTO, Malaysia is among the 30 leading global exporters of services,” said Najib.
“The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) has also been tasked to coordinate and spearhead all export promotion initiatives.”
To help develop Malaysia as an international Islamic finance hub, said Najib, the legal profession will be liberalised to allow up to five top international law firms with expertise in international Islamic finance to practise in Malaysia.
However, these firms will only be allowed to offer legal services in international Islamic finance.

SERVICES SUB-SECTORS FOR LIBERALISATION

Computer and relater services
1. Consultancy services related to installation of computer hardware
2. Software implementation services – systems and software consulting services; systems analysis services; systems design services; programming services and systems maintenance services
3. Data processing services – input preparation servies; data processing and tabulation services; time sharing servies and other data processing services
4. Database services
5. Maintenance and repair services of computers
6. Other services – data preparation services; training services; data recovery services; and development of creative content

Health and social services
1. All veterinary services
2. Welfare services delivered through residential institutions to old person and the handicapped
3. Welfare services delivered through residential institutions to children
4. Child day-care services including day-care services for the handicapped
5. Vocational rehabilitation services for the handicapped

Tourism services
1. Theme park
2. Convention and exhibition centre
3. Travel agencies and tour operators services (for inbound travel only)
4. Hotel and restaurant services (for 4 and 5 star hotels only)
5. Food serving services (for 4 and 5 star hotels only)
6. Beverage serving services for consumption on the services (for 4 and 5 star hotels only)

Transport services
1. Class C freight transportation (Private carrier license – to transport own goods)

Sporting and other recreational services
1. Sporting services (promotion and organization services)

Business services
1. Regional distribution centre
2. International procurement centre
3. Technical testing and analysis services – composition and purity testing and analysis services, testing and analysis services of physical properties, testing and analysis services of integrated mechanical and electrical systems and technical inspection services
4. Management consulting services – general, financial (excluding business tax), marketing, human resources production and public relations services

Rental/Leasing services without operators
1. Rental/leasing services of ships that excludes cabotage and offshore trades
2. Rental of cargo vessels without crew (Bareboat Charter) for international shipping

Supporting and Auxiliary Transport Services
1. Maritime agency services
2. Vessel salvage and refloating services

tunku : i understand that many malays are upset with this decision to scrapped the 30% quota of bumis equity in these 27 SUB SECTORS. let's be rationale. these are only SUB SECTORS and if you really look into the sectors there are not many genuine bumi players in those industry.if there is , they can own their own company and there are many bumis owning it. it is to boost up the economy and also in line with the asean trade liberalisation and efforts to boost the services sector.if the economy boost up, it benefits all. by doing this we will get more FDI's in.let me say it again, it is only for the SUB SECTORS.

Create New Markets For Local Products, Says Mahathir

CYBERJAYA, April 22 (Bernama) -- Malaysia needs to create new markets for its products and services as the traditional markets have been affected by the global economic crisis, former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said today.
He said Malaysia needed to keep in mind that the world has become poorer and the things that the country used to produce might no longer be able to find markets like before. "Perhaps we could look domestically or at countries that were not involved with playing with money to make money," Dr Mahathir said at the first leg of the MSC Malaysia Leadership Talk Series 2009 here.
According to him, the current crisis worldwide was not related to the real business of producing and manufacturing but due to the "shuffling of papers" between people who gained huge profit from it. "The effect (of the global financial crisis) in Singapore is greater because they also invested in hedge funds. We decided very early that we should not invest in hedge funds or play around with money," he said. He also said that in a way, Malaysia's economy was in a much better position than most other economies as it is in the real business of producing goods and supplying services.
On a question on how to make information technology (IT) firms and their products more competitive, Dr Mahathir suggested that they "imagine the most ridiculous things and continuously invent new things".
"But please be aware that it (invention) will not last forever. You may have a market for a short while but someone will come up with something better," he said. Dr Mahathir also encouraged the development of animation and robotics in the country. "One area where there will be competition but you still can survive is animation. In future, there will be more animation that actual action by people," he said. "The other thing is robotics. We can replace human skills with more robots and more automation and this is an area which appears to provide more opportunities." Dr Mahathir said Malaysia could change negative perception that its products, especially in IT, were inferior by concentrating on perfection and precision.
"If it is not good enough, then don't even think of selling it or selling it a cheaper price. Demonstrate your capacity beyond doubt and do that each and every time," he said. "At the moment we have not really established ourselves, but it will take time before we get recognition."
Dr Mahathir said in entrepreneurship, "you have to understand what is needed in a society". Therefore, he said, it was important to collect and study data in order to come up with solutions needed.
"Malaysians are still not very sufficiently aware of the importance of information. They are not looking into information to improve whatever it is they are doing," he added.
Dr Mahathir said firms needed to list down their assets in order to know what they lacked for potential businesses.
"People can do business because they understand what is needed. We have to know what other countries have and don't have and match their needs," he said. Asked about his perception of the government's handling of the economic crisis, Dr Mahathir said the thing to do was to "understand the crisis", the causes and effects and see how to take advantage. "That may be the line the government should take," he said. Dr Mahathir also urged IT firms to enhance their research and development (R&D) activities although it is difficult to guarantee a return on investment. "The funds expended on research are never wasted. At the very least we would be adding to the sum total of our knowledge. So if you have money, spend it on R&D," he said.
Asked on developing the country's economy as a whole, Dr Mahathir said there was a time when the government emphasised on agriculture but not so much on ICT.
"I don't mind agriculture, but it should be modern agriculture. We should take into consideration whatever power and assets we have, like the usage of microchips, for agriculture," he said.

Umno set to have new leaders for several states

PETALING JAYA: The Umno supreme council meeting this Friday, the first since the recent party election, is expected to approve new leaders for several states.
At least three states, including Perak, are expected to get new state Umno liaison chiefs. The current Perak liaison chief is party president Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak.
According to party insiders, Najib, who would be chairing the Perak state liaison meeting, is expected to hand over the chief post to either Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Zambry Abdul Kadir or the current state deputy liaison chief Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
Asked about the matter, Dr Zambry said it was Najib’s prerogative to decide on the best candidate for the post.
Two other states expected to see new chiefs are Selangor and Terengganu.
While current Selangor liaison chief Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib had lost in his bid for the deputy president’s post last month, Terengganu’s chief and Mentri Besar Datuk Ahmad Said is facing a mutiny of sorts by state party leaders.
The insiders also said that secretary-general Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor’s position was secure, but the same could not be said for executive secretary Datuk Husainay Hashim, treasurer-general Datuk Seri Abdul Azim Mohd Zabidi and Muhammad, who is party information chief.
Najib is also expected to announce the 10 appointed supreme council members.
Meanwhile in Setiu, Terengganu, Bernama reports Ahmad Said as saying that he would accept any decision made by Najib on his position as the state Umno liaison committee chairman.
“We leave it to him (the Prime Minister) because that is his right as the party president. We should accept whatever decision with an open mind. I have no problem with that,” he told reporters when visiting victims of a storm that destroyed several houses in Kampung Penarik yesterday.

tunku : umno need major revamp in all states. most leaders has to make way for the new leaders to take over as they are no longer favoured by the members and the people. perlis, kedah,penang,perak,selangor,kelantan,terengganu and also pahang need to be over hauled. kedah needs major over haul if they want to wrest the state back from pas. so do states like penang and selangor.hope najib would have the courage to do major changes.

More gunning for Guan Eng

GEORGE TOWN: Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng once again came under fire for not filling a vacant position in the state, this time for the post of Penang Municipal Council president.
The seat fell vacant after its outgoing president Datuk Zainal Rahim Seman was promoted to state secretary effective Monday.
Lim has declined to name a replacement or appoint an acting president as yet.
At a press conference after Zainal Rahim was sworn in outside the State Legislative assembly sitting here Tuesday, Lim said he would name the new council president in due time.
Lim had recently come under strong criticism for not appointing a replacement for Mohammad Fairus Khairuddin, who quit as Deputy Chief Minister 1, effective April 8.
“It is not a problem for us, administratively (to pick a candidate for the council president’s post). I will definitely tell all of you (the media),” he said.
Asked to comment on Penang Gerakan’s proposal that its former deputy secretary-general Datuk Lee Kah Choon be considered for the post, Lim retorted that Gerakan had also proposed to abolish the ISA.
“Gerakan can make proposals, but we will decide after making necessary consultations within our leadership,” he said.
At a separate press conference, Penang Wanita MCA chief Tan Cheng Liang said Lim should make up his mind on the council president’s replacement and to not “take Penangites for a ride.”
She said he should also scrap the post of DCM 1 if he was unable to find a suitable replacement.
Tan said Lim often boasted that he looked at merit and not race or religion when appointing state government staff, but he instead allocated the DCM 1’s post to a Malay, from PKR.
“This is hypocrisy and a practice of double standards. PKR has two other state excos, Abdul Malik Abul Kassim and Law Choo Kiang.
“Are they not fit for the post, or are they leaders without merit?” she said.
Tan also said Lim owed Penangites an explanation on Mohammad Fairus’ sudden decision to quit as DCM 1 and Penanti assemblyman.
“As a leader who claims to advocate transparency, Lim should be transparent himself,” especially on that particular matter, she said.

tunku : we should understand that guan eng can't decide anything until he gets the green light from anwar. he is the puppet cm. he has no prerogative as a cm , anwar has it all.any appointment must be made by anwar's approval.last time they said that gerakan(penang) bow down to umno and now we are seeing the same thing with dap, bowing down to pkr. now they know what coalition is all about.next time think before saying anything. now its all coming back to them.

Fine MPs Or State Assemblymen Who Resign Without Valid Reason - Mukhriz

KOTA BAHARU, April 21 (Bernama) -- The Election Commission (EC) should fine state assemblymen or Member of Parliament (MP) who resign without just cause or a valid reason.
Jerlun MP Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir said resignation of assemblymen and MPs has become a trend among the opposition, apparently to continuously hog the limelight.
Such action however, is a loss to the people and community, results in a waste of money as by-elections should be held while raising the animosity among the parties and people, due to such by-elections, he said.
"The Permatang Pauh episode is one good example whereby a by-election was called merely because former Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) president Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail decided to give up the post to her husband Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
"What the fine should be will depend on the EC. We cannot see a valid reason that can be accepted for such action, including what has happened in the Penanti state assembly seat," he said.
Mukhriz who is also Ministry of International Trade and Industry, Deputy Minister also welcomed his father, former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad's suggestion that Barisan Nasional (BN) should contest the Penanti seat.
The Penanti seat fell vacant following the decision by former Penang deputy chief minister Mohammad Fairus Khairuddin who won the seat under PKR, decided to resign, following allegations of corrupt charges brought up against him.
"Although there isn't a clear indicator as to whether BN can win or not, may be we should contest after all, because we still have supporters in Penanti," he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak had earlier said that BN might not contest the by-election for the Penanti State seat as it must first consider whether it would benefit the people or otherwise.

tunku : i support this suggestion, any assemblymen or Member of Parliament (MP) who resign without just cause or a valid reason should be fine of RM25,000 and can't contest in election for 10 years. this is involving tax payer's money. they can't simply do what suits them at our expense. wan azizah resigned because wants her husband to stand there, is this a good move? now this fairus with the reason of wanted to further his studies and want to be close to his family, why did not think all these before standing for election?

Penang PKR chief takes Guan Eng to task

GEORGE TOWN: Penang PKR chief Datuk Zahrain Mohamed Hashim has taken Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng to task for using the media to voice out his dissatisfaction towards the party and its adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Zahrain said as a partner in the ruling coalition in Penang, it was not proper for Lim to voice out his dissatisfaction in the media over the resignation of Mohammad Fairus Khairuddin as Deputy Chief Minister I and Penanti assemblyman.
He added that there were internal mechanisms through which the matter could be discussed.
“As a member of the pact, why can’t he discuss directly with Anwar on Fairus’ successor as DCM1 and Penanti assemblyman?” he told Bernama.
He said that the DCM1’s appointment and the issue pertaining to the Penanti seat were PKR’s internal affairs.
“It is true that as the Chief Minister he has the prerogative but at least give us the opportunity to determine what we want to do. He should have listened first to what we are going to suggest,” he said.
Zahrain was commenting on news reports that Lim was less than happy with the issue as he only knew about the matter in the media.
Zahrain said PKR could also cite numerous instances of decisions being made without the party being consulted.
“For instance, he had never consulted us on the appointment of Datuk Lee Kah Choon as the InvestPenang executive committee chairman,” he said.
He said the Penang PKR had to voice out their desire to be given a bigger role in the state administration. Only then were some of its leaders appointed to sit in the board of certain agencies.
Zahrain called on Lim to emulate Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim who “never interfered in other parties’ affairs.”
On Mohammad Fairus’ resignation letter as the Penanti assemblyman, he said a copy was sent to the chief minister’s office on the same day Mohammad Fairus announced his resignation.
On that day, he said, Lim was in Singapore and it would be up to his officers to alert him about the matter as PKR’s job would have already been done by sending the letter to Lim’s office.
He said that Anwar had also tried to contact the chief minister but could not reach him. -- Bernama

tunku : this is not a real pakatan in the first place. it is marriage of convenience.everybody seems to be best of buddies at the surface but down there backstabbing each other when get the chance.it is a loose pakatan. again whenever there is pkr there are issues and scandals.

Mukhriz wants SMIs to grow and thrive

JITRA: Deputy International Trade and Investment Minister Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir will use his experience as a businessman to help entrepreneurs market their products.
He said his fibre optic company produces products that were sold overseas and he believed he would be able to help local entrepreneurs improve themselves.
“I will give special attention to help small and medium-scale industries expand their businesses,” he told reporters after attending a luncheon to honour his appointment as Deputy Minister at Dewan Jitra here yesterday.
Mukhriz said Malaysian entrepreneurs could succeed in overseas markets as long as they know what could sell.
“There are many ways that my ministry is able to help the small and medium-scale entrepreneurs here,” he said.
Mukhriz said people should broaden their thinking by seeking ways to sell their products or services locally and abroad.
“Sometimes, products we take for granted can be re-packaged as precious gifts.”

tunku : that is where the role of a ministry come in. the ministry should be more aggressive in reaching out all the SMI's players and if possible have progress reports from them quarterly.this will help the ministry to tackle the problems and also give special assistance to those in needs of it.this will also a tool to make sure that the industry survive a very long time and expend to the fullest.i believe with Mukhriz experience in business and also as the franchise association chairman has the experience to help them.

MITI Won't Cut Allocations For MECD Agencies - Mustapa

KOTA BAHARU, April 19 (Bernama) -- International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed today gave an assurance that all allocations for the three agencies previously placed under Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Ministry (MECD) which had been absorbed by his ministry would not be reduced.
He said the agencies -- Bumiputera Trade Industry Community Development, National Entrepreneurship Institute and SME Bank -- would continue their original functions to help the people, particularly the viable and competitive Bumiputeras.
"Budgets for the three agencies remain the same. They were only moved to MITI," he told reporters after chairing the Kelantan State Federal Action Council meeting here.
He was commenting on concerns by certain people that allocations for all MECD agencies which had been absorbed by several ministries would probably be reduced and this would affect programmes which especially assist the Bumiputeras.
Mustapa added that there were no reasons for the ministry trying to alter the budget and functions of the agencies because such a move would affect the strategies already planned.
Meanwhile, Mustapa said he was still listening to briefings by the officers on his new ministry.
"The briefings will end next Saturday and give me a bit of time to settle in and understand the specifics of each issue handled by the ministry," he said.
He did not rule out the possibility of making changes and improvements on the programmes planned by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin when helming the ministry.
"What important is continuity, not that we don't want all old programmes because the good ones we will continue and those which we think need a new approach, we will do some changes," he said.
Mustapa who is also Kelantan State Federal Action Council Chairman said the meeting wth all federal agencies would continue to be held every three months to get the views from the department heads on any issue and enable him to explain government policies to them.

tunku : i think the people should not be worried much with the allocations for MECD agencies.the government will not cut any of the allocations by all the MECD agencies and in fact they will increase the allocations depending on situation.MECD agencies now will be under MITI and Rural and Regional Development Ministry.MITI with its capability and networking will help those agencies to the fullest and more effectively.

No need for crooked bridge: Shahrir

JOHOR BARU: Johor Baru Member of Parliament Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad is against the revival of the crooked bridge project between Malaysia and Singapore, and has instead proposed that both countries work together to build a straight one.
He said that a straight bridge would be good for building better bilateral ties between the two governments.
“The Singapore government has agreed on the development of iconic projects in Iskandar Malaysia.
“Why not build a straight bridge as one of the iconic projects?” he said.
Shahrir added that a new straight bridge across the causeway would show a renewed bond and would benefit both countries.
“It has come to my attention that many Johoreans are hopeful that our new prime minister and Cabinet will revive the crooked bridge project.
“The public must understand that bilateral ties between both countries will suffer if the project was revived,” he said, adding that the Malaysian Government should consider all implications when reviewing the project.
The Star had recently reported that many businesses suffering since the opening of the new CIQ last year were counting on the crooked bridge project to be revived, believing it could boost business in the city.
Shahrir was speaking to reporters at the launch of an anti-drug community service centre for residents of Taman Sri Stulang here Sunday.
On the opening of the old CIQ to pedestrians, Shahrir commended the Government on the move and said he hoped that it would be implemented soon.
“We cannot expect pedestrians to walk across the causeway and into the new CIQ because the roads are not designed to cater for them and are also dangerous,” said the former Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister.

tunku : why is shahrir so concerned about singapore? if the johoreans wants it then who are you to tell them there's no need for the crooked bridge.ok, fine you said build a straight bridge,that is better for us too.can shahrir get singapore to agree on building the straight bridge without singapore asking us to give this and that? if you can then there is no need for the crooked bridge and if not better shut your mouth shahrir.

Rulers are above politics: Sultan Azlan Shah

KUALA KANGSAR: Rulers are above politics and as such they cannot participate in open debates to answer allegations hurled against them by political groups, said Sultan of Perak Sultan Azlan Shah on Sunday.
He said the actions of certain political groups in provoking the people and sowing seeds of hatred against the rulers was akin to fanning “embers in the chaff” which, he said, was a dangerous act and could destroy the peace enjoyed by the people and the country.
“These groups are allowing the end to justify the means by condoning such acts.
“These groups and individuals feel that they are faultless and immune from any action, to the extent of disregarding the law for the sake of attaining power,” he said at the loyalty pledge and Perak awards ceremony in conjunction with his 81st birthday at the Istana Iskandariah here Sunday.
Sultan Azlan Shah also said that he felt there was too much politicking in the country at the moment and this would affect economic productivity and the country’s image in the eyes of the international community.
“In facing the global economic crisis, too much politicking is not helpful to the people who are struggling to make ends meet,” he said.
He added that leaders of various political parties should find a meeting point from which they could work out ways to cooperate for the sake of the country and people.
Sultan Azlan Shah also spoke on the need to correct what he described as the misconception that the constitutional monarchy was just a symbol devoid of any power.
He said the rulers were neither blind, deaf nor mute. In fact, he added, they were fully aware of what was going on in the country.
“It should be stressed that the constitutional monarchy has three rights -- the right to give views and counsel, the right to encourage and motivate, and the right to remind and reprimand,” he said.
Sultan Azlan Shah said that although the constitutional monarchy acted based on the power vested in it under the constitution, it would be erroneous to think that the role of a ruler was similar to that of a president whose functions had been predefined in the Constitution.
“The role of the constitutional monarchy goes beyond what is stipulated in the Constitution.
“The rulers have a far wider responsibility in ensuring that the spirit of the Constitution, the philosophy behind the written law, and the interest of the country and the people are safeguarded at all times,” he said.
He said that based on the spirit behind the formation of the Federation of the Malay States, the rulers were responsible in protecting the privileges and position of the Rulers Institution, Islam, the Malay language and the legitimate interest of other races.
“These are the basis of understanding and the ingredients which resulted in the formation of an independent and sovereign nation, enabling its people to live in peace and harmony,” he said.
Sultan Azlan Shah said that throughout Malaysia’s 52 years of nationhood, the country’s administration had seen its ups and downs.
“I myself have been giving views and advice either openly of behind closed doors on matters which I think should be rectified,” he said.
He called on the people to be wary of attempts to provoke them into dismantling the system and institution as this could create chaos in the country.

Umno post is no guarantee of a win in national polls: Najib

KUANTAN: Umno members were reminded that they were no longer living in the 70s and 80s where by they could win seats in the general election merely by being division chiefs.
Umno president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said time had flown and the political setting had changed to such as an extent that even if one held a good post in the party, it would not guarantee a win in the elections.
"Party members must not be too engrossed with party posts and campaigning night and day, setting up operations rooms with all kinds of displays and end up losing the elections.
''The approach now is to be people-friendly and implement people-centric projects so as to win back their hearts and for them to stand by us,'' he said his speech at a gathering marking his homecoming as the sixth Prime Minister here Saturday.
He added that members must make it a point to understand the peoples' problems and find ways to overcome them because it would make them feel good and this in turn, would ensure they want to be with the party.
“Gone are the days when it was a breeze for the party to win the people's hearts and confidence because Malaysians now are a better educated lot and aware of the current happenings and issues as well as their rights in the democratic process,” he said.
''They know they hold the power in democracry and party members must really take note of this fact,'' Najib said.

tunku : when a party post guarantee a place in the government and as a potential candidate for election, it will make everyone want to fight for the post and this is where money politics becomes a tool to get the post. i guess for the future, the umno wings chief should not be in the cabinet.they can be member of parliament as they hold important post in the party but not as ministers or deputy ministers.they should concentrate more on the ground helping people rather being busy in the administration. for ketua bahagian,timbalan etc, only those with great potential should be selected not a must to make them as candidates for election. this will help the party get rid from all those greedy leaders. only those whoare sincere will go for the post as there isn't much rewards in those post.there is so much urgent reform shouldo be made in Umno asap.

Najib: BN may not contest Penanti by-election

PEKAN: Barisan Nasional might not contest the Penanti state by-election if it obtains the consensus of all component parties, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
In this context, Najib said he would hold a meeting with the Umno Supreme Council and meet with the presidents of the Barisan component parties to discuss the matter.
"I will raise the matter at the next Umno Supreme Council meeting. If I don't have the time, I will bring it up to the Political Bureau, and discuss with the Barisan component party presidents," he said.
Najib said he did not rule out the possibility of Barisan not contesting as the latest by-election in Penang was clearly a "political ploy" by the Opposition.
"No, we are not afraid of losing to them but it is a sheer waste of public funds.
"Whatever decision we make, we will take into consideration whether it benefits the people," he told reporters at a press conference at his residence near here on Saturday.
On the party’s new appointed office bearers and state Umno liaison chiefs, Najib said he would announce the names after the supreme council meeting.
“I need some time to consult several senior party leaders first as the appointment is the prerogative of the party president under the party’s constitution.
“I do not know yet if any of the Mentri Besar or Chief Minister will be replaced,” he said adding that no one should speculate as it would not be fair to the parties involved who might experience “sleepless nights.”
On the political storm in Terengganu, Najib said he would be monitoring the situation closely and had listened to explanations from both factions.
“I hope the state leadership can resolve the situation amicably,” he said, adding that it was important to have a strong team who could quell any tension and be acceptable to all Umno leaders in the state.
Najib reiterated that no decision had been made by the Government pertaining to the crooked bridge project.
He also expressed his support to a proposal by the Election Commission to limit the number of supporters allowed at nomination and polling centres.
“We want a smooth elections process and no disturbances by any party supporters,” he said.
Earlier, Najib was given a rousing welcome in his home state and parliamentary constituency by some 30,000 people of all races.
It was the first time Najib, the Pekan MP, returned to his constituency as the Prime Minister of Malaysia.

tunku : this is the best that BN should do.don't contest in penanti. it's waste of time and money.just imagine how many millions are spend on an by election, the seen and unseen.so this money should be used for the development of nation instead of a by election. najib and his new team should concentrate on more urgent and important matters. the people will appreciate BN for this.

Guan Eng Declines Comment On Fairus's Resignation

SINGAPORE, April 17 (Bernama) -- Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng today declined comment on the resignation of former Penang deputy chief minister I Mohammad Fairus Khairuddin as the state assemblyman for Penanti.
"It is improper for me to comment on the matter when I am overseas. Wait for me to return to Penang," he told reporters here.
Lim was approached by reporters after he had attended the Second Asean and Asia Forum organised by the Singapore Institute of International Affairs (SIIA).
He was asked to comment on Mohamad Fairus's resignation yesterday as the state assemblyman for Penanti, thus forcing a by-election for the state constituency.
Mohamad Fairus, who is from Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), resigned as deputy chief minister I and as state executive councillor on April 8.
He has been questioned by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) over alleged illegal quarrying activities in Seberang Perai.

tunku : as the cm he must know each and single details of what happening in the state no matter where he is. he should be able to comment and respond to questions whether he is in singapore or in his bedroom.what kind of cm is this. the main reason he's not commenting is because there is so much hidden facts and truth behind fairus's resignation.

Resignation a deliberate move to force by-election: Gerakan

PENANG: Penang Gerakan chief Datuk Dr Teng Hock Nan said today (16 April) the Penanti state seat's vacancy is a deliberate move by the Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) to force a by-election to shore up support to the party.
"The party wants to create a 'wave' of support, thinking that they can always win back the seats that their assemblymen had vacated," he told Bernama when asked to comment on the resignation of Penanti assemblyman Mohammad Fairus Khairuddin today.
Mohammad Fairus, 33, of PKR, who is reported to be under investigation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Agency, had previously resigned as the Deputy Chief Minister I.
"We feel that the by-election is deliberately planned to gain popularity and support. It is not impossible that something like this will happen again in the future until the next general election," said Teng.
He reminded the people to be mindful of what he described as a "drama" being played by the opposition parties.
"The people should open their eyes and see what the opposition parties have been doing," he said, adding that if the opposition parties had been putting the people's interest first, they would have avoided precipitating a by-election in this time of economic gloom.
"Foreign investors will look at the political situation of a country before deciding on where to direct their investments. If politics is not stable, it will affect their confidence," he said.
In KEPALA BATAS, Penang UMNO secretary Datuk Azhar Ibrahim said the party would leave it to Prime Minister and UMNO president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to decide on the candidacy for the seat.
Meanwhile, Penang PKR chief Datuk Zahrain Mohamed Hashim called on party members to accept any candidate chosen by PKR advisor Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
On talks that he might be fielded by the PKR, Zahrain said, "I am already a member of Parliament (for Bayan Baru) but if that is the wish of the party, then I will abide by it." (Bernama)

tunku : it is true that the moron will try his best to divert the government from focusing on the economy and only think about by elections.by doing this the economy will be worst and the people will get angry at the government. i hope the people will really open their eyes on this matter. enough is enough, we need to move on and build this nation.i guess BN should not bother contesting the seat, after all it is not their current seat.let us wait till the next GE for this fight.it does not make any difference whoever wins it.pakatan will still rule penang. for now, we concentrate on the economy.
where is the big shocking announcement about najib that he promised to make after the three by elections? this moron keep lying.

Fairus: Clear my name or prepare for expose

KUALA LUMPUR: Mohammad Fairus Khairuddin, who quit as Penang Deputy Chief Minister 1 and as Penanti assemblyman, has given PKR a two-week deadline to clear his name, saying he would otherwise expose a state government and party scandal.
In an exclusive interview with Chinese daily Nanyang Siang Pau, he said he had inside information related to the internal operation of the Pakatan Rakyat opposition alliance.
“That is the reason why the party still does not take any action against me,” he said, adding that it was not convenient for him to elaborate at present and urged the press to be patient.
Mohammad Fairus has been quizzed by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) for his alleged involvement with illegal quarry activities in the state, and has come under fire by his own party for supposed under-performance.
“I am innocent. They know what I can do. So do not push me (from taking such step)!” he said, claiming that he had been framed by party insiders.
He told Nanyang Siang Pau that he was unhappy with his party for not standing behind him as it had done for Bukit Lanjan assemblyman Elizabeth Wong and former Bukit Selambau assemblyman V. Arumugam.
“The two of them were just state executive council (exco) members, while I am not only a state exco member but also state Deputy Chief Minister,” he said, denying criticism that he had been neglectful of his constituency and absent from many state government functions.
He claimed that it was all part of a well-crafted plot to frame him.
“I have done my constituency work properly and have the support of my voters. Those on the outside may not understand this because my work and services for the constituency have not been reported in newspapers,” he said.
He added that he would cooperate with the MACC to clear his name over the illegal quarrying issue.

tunku : fairuz should expose the dirt within pkr and pakatan government's scandals.do not forget the illegal quarry project you are involved in. if it is a plot than tell the truth what had happenned. i wonder why many of the opposition website and news did not carry out this news, they always says that government media blackout the news which don't favour them, so do they.what's the difference? this is all the moron's game.he will not let malaysia be in peace till he rest in peace. wish can see there's a sign of RIP(anwar ibrahim).
pkr full of controversy,by the way did eli wong received full salary on her two months 'special' leave? how can an assembly person go on leave for 2 months just because of personal reason of her private life?is this fair to the people who voted for her?