According to Steve Oh, in his letter to Malaysiakini, "We are fools who fight over religion" (Dec 28, 07 8:47pm}.
True, so true. But fools who fight over religion are not exclusive to Malaysia, as the following news (as printed below) from BBC has shown.
Before we get to that, lets get this straight. Allah is is not exclusive to anyone. Anyone who wants to worship Allah should just go on and worship Allah. If anyone believes in Allah, and wants to pray to Allah, by all means. And as people believe that Allah is the Creator of the Universe, Allah cannot then be exclusive to anyone, otherwise, the earth, air, water and all Allah's creations on Earth can only be enjoyed by a select few.
Thus, as Allah has allowed everyone to breathe in the air, drink the water and live on this Earth that He has created, everyone, good or bad, is free to give thanks to Allah. No exclusivity there! Everyone is and should be free to seek His Forgiveness and seek His love. He never made Himself exclusive to anyone, it's only that some choose to accept and some don't.
Even to those who don't, Allah won't make Himself exclusive and deny them of the opportunity to turn to Him. It's just up to any individual to do so.
As for fools who fight over religion, the following piece is from BBCNews. In gist, Christians have set fire to Hindu homes, in retaliation after 19 churches were destroyed by Hindus on Christmas Eve.
Members of the hardline Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) said Christians sparked the violence by attacking one of their leaders, Swami Laxamananda Saraswati, on Monday.
Yes, fools will kill and fight over religion. Last night's events in India clearly shows it.
- Source BBC News.com
Friday, 28 December 2007, 13:12
Indian police shoot three dead
Hindus say Christians attacked one of their leaders.
Police in the eastern Indian state of Orissa shot and killed at least three people on Thursday in continuing communal violence, officials say. Police opened fire on a large crowd of Hindus after a village police station was set on fire.
The crowd had been complaining about a lack of protection after Christians set fire to several Hindu homes.
Christians had retaliated after 19 churches were destroyed in violence that began on Christmas Eve.
The disorder in the remote tribal area has continued despite a curfew and the deployment of a large number of state and federal police.
Reinforcements
The state government has ordered a judicial inquiry into the violence, which has disrupted telephone lines and other communications.
An additional 200-strong paramilitary force is being deployed to the area after Orissa's chief minister, Naveen Patnaik, called for more federal help to quell the violence.
Members of the hardline Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) said Christians sparked the violence by attacking one of their leaders, Swami Laxamananda Saraswati, on Monday.
Hindu groups also accuse Christian missionaries of forcing tribal people and low-caste Hindus to convert to Christianity.
But Christians deny the claims and accuse the Hindus of objecting to them celebrating Christmas.
The BBC's Tinku Ray in Delhi says the issue of conversions is very sensitive in India, where several states have laws that forbid or make it difficult to convert.
Orissa has seen some of the worst attacks on the minority Christian community.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7162787.stm
Friday, December 28, 2007
Thursday, December 27, 2007
I'm confused. Were We to Fight it Out?
Another letter from Malaysiakini.
Posted by Truth Seeker.
A message to our Christian leaders Truth-Seeker Dec 24, 07 5:04pm
It is with great sadness I learn that Christian leaders are continuing their “business as usual” attitude despite the terrible injustices happening in our country. The Christian Federation of Malaysia will be holding its Christmas high-tea reception at the Rumah Uskup Agung in Kuala Lumpur on Christmas day. It will be hosted by the Roman Catholic Church’s archbishop of Kuala Lumpur and his guests of honour are Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and his wife.
so..let me get this. Because of the current situation, the Christian Federation shouldn't have invited the Prime Minister to their do? What? The way to solving this is to shun each other? Christians now cannot celebrate Christmas with non-Christians?
Look, despite my comments/views here, one thing that I wouldn't lose sight of, like it or not, is the fact that the man is still the Prime Minister of the country, well, until Malaysians decide otherwise. So, I think the Christian Federation is perhaps, showing a gesture that despite differences, what matters most is to preserve some sense of unity amongst Malaysians, and the Prime Minister is representing all Malaysians here. (as I said, like it or not...) :) So you're saying they shouldn't have invited him?
Posted by Truth Seeker.
A message to our Christian leaders Truth-Seeker Dec 24, 07 5:04pm
It is with great sadness I learn that Christian leaders are continuing their “business as usual” attitude despite the terrible injustices happening in our country. The Christian Federation of Malaysia will be holding its Christmas high-tea reception at the Rumah Uskup Agung in Kuala Lumpur on Christmas day. It will be hosted by the Roman Catholic Church’s archbishop of Kuala Lumpur and his guests of honour are Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and his wife.
so..let me get this. Because of the current situation, the Christian Federation shouldn't have invited the Prime Minister to their do? What? The way to solving this is to shun each other? Christians now cannot celebrate Christmas with non-Christians?
Look, despite my comments/views here, one thing that I wouldn't lose sight of, like it or not, is the fact that the man is still the Prime Minister of the country, well, until Malaysians decide otherwise. So, I think the Christian Federation is perhaps, showing a gesture that despite differences, what matters most is to preserve some sense of unity amongst Malaysians, and the Prime Minister is representing all Malaysians here. (as I said, like it or not...) :) So you're saying they shouldn't have invited him?
I think to get your message across, it is best to remain in contact than shun each other!
The letter further went on :
The mainstream media never gave the Hindraf lawyers arrested under the Internal Security Act or any opposition leaders the opportunity to tell their side of the story. Why is it that we Malaysians never ever hear Bersih, Hindraf or opposition leaders speak, not even during election campaigns? What little opportunities these people have to speak are disturbed by raids because police permits were not granted for the occasion. Yet there is no shortage of permits available for BN leaders’ gatherings.
I am all for free for freedom of speech. AND I am not happy with the fact that the the same right to assemble is not given to all Malaysians. But.. rights for Hindraf or Bersih to speak during election campaigns? Err.. have the election campaigns begun? Did I miss the announcement of the same? And even if it has begun and I missed the start, I thought only political parties can campaign under the election regulations? And during the last elections, there was no Hindraf or Bersih.
Truth Seeker further said :
Christian leaders should question why newspapers downplay or neglect to report important news such as the recent amendment to the Federal Constitution to extend the term of Election Commission chairman Abdul Rashid Abdul Rahman. Amending the Federal Constitution is a very serious matter. Here, it is being amended for one man and extends beyond a single general election. That in itself begs the question of the next general election’s fairness.
Knowingly or unknowingly, Christian leaders are proliferating this belief that they should speak up against injustices only when it concerns their faith and religion. As a Christian, I know this is not the message preached by Jesus Christ. In fact, Jesus accused such people as hypocrites and “white-washed tombs” that are beautiful on the outside but filled with dead bones inside.
Look. Non-Muslim Malaysians have always at large, shunned the idea of, and get agitated whenever PAS or UMNO talks about the Constitution, laws etc from the Islamic perspective. Or when they raise any issue based on Islamic views. Not too long ago there were even rallies against the announcement that Malaysia is an Islamic state. Now you want Christian leaders to champion causes? Not in the name of Malaysians, but in the name of Christianity? hmmm.
I can agree to that. But fair's fair. We should also then, as Malaysians, allow the ulamaks of Islam to also get into gear and do the same, challenging anything that they think is not right, whilst bearing the Islamic banner. And the Hindu religious leaders too. And the Sikhs. The list goes on.
I don't know about you.. but I think if everyone wants to fight their causes using each own's religious convictions, well.. just picture things ahead. Christians, Muslims, Hindus, wow.. all championing their causes and views on the Constitution, politics etc. When it comes to religion, everyone will get all passionate and fight with conviction, even more flaringly so then with their polictical understandings. Imagine the outcome!
I think we already have enough with politicians disrupting our lives!
Bring back Malaysia as it was.. where people enjoy visiting each other's homes during festive seasons, regardless of race and religion.
P/S : I've always looked forward to my mandarin oranges, ang pows, Kueh Bulan, rendang, muruku, turkeys etc. And attending the various weddings, be it Malay, Hindu, Sikh, Christian weddings. Whatever the celebration, I get an invite, I go. Don't put a stop to that!
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Do Malaysian Christians Really Pray To Allah?
This is a letter I wrote to Malaysiakini. I don't know if it will be published, if it is, fine, if it isn't, then.. the following :
Dear Editor,
I read with interest the letter from Look.Observe "No one can order me how to call my God".
When I wrote in my blog on the matter, I chided Johari only because he said the word "Allah" is exclusive to Muslims. The exclusivity bit, was wrong. That, as we all know, is not the case, as the Arab Christians use the same. That was all to it. A correction of his statement.
But Johari's, and the Muslims' concerns, on the use of "Allah" in the Herald, are another. It was raised that the use of the word "Allah" here, that is in Malaysia, would cause confusion.
We all agree, Arab Christians, Arab-speaking Christians, have no other word for God but Allah. Because they only speak Arabic. God in Arabic is after all, Allah. No brainer. Maybe if they spoke Indonesian, they'd call God "Tuhan" or "Dewa". They, are, however, the exception. Ask any not well-read, never been out of the country American and he'd say, "Allah? Muslim God, ain't it?"
But here, in Malaysia, moreover in Malay, whenever "Allah" is spoken of, mentioned, and written about, it is synonymous with God as revered by the Muslims. I don't think that many Christians would ever think it is Jesus being spoken of when Allah is mentioned, or would pray or begin their prayers with "In the name of Allah.."
So, are there that many Malaysian Christians who speak Arabic? If that were the case, just highlight that fact then, to the Malaysians at large. The Malaysian Muslims truly didn't know before this that Malaysian Christians pray to Allah. They've always thought Malaysian Christians, referred to, and called their God, "Our Lord", "Our Lord Jesus" or "Christ".
It is only now, I dare say, that the Malaysian Muslims are aware that in churches across Malaysia, that Malaysian Christians pray to Allah. If that is indeed the case, then just confirm the fact. The Muslims can be taught to accept that. If indeed, that is the case.
After all, Muslims accept that Prophet Isa a.s. is one of their prophets, and accept that the Christians call him Jesus and pray in his name. No confusion or arguments there. They never said Jesus cannot be prayed to, or "Nabi Isa" cannot be used as a translation to Jesus. Muslims just want to avoid any confusion when "Allah" is used in the Malay section of the Herald.
In other Christian literature, "Jesus" is translated as "Isa", "Lord" has always been translated as, "Tuhan". So, now it's Allah. Even for many other non-Muslims in Malaysia, never mind the Muslims, that would definitely raise eye-brows! Do Malaysian Christians, in all honesty, when they speak about Christianity in Malay, actually call or refer to god, as "Allah"?
The writer, Look.Observe wrote, amongst others, that "..no one has the right to tell me how to address my God because my relationship with God is between me and God."
Well, nobody is ordering you how to addres your God. If you call your God, Allah, so be it. Nobody is stopping you. The people just need some clarification.
In fact, the word "Allah" is used ever so commonly across the world, in all languages, English, Malay, even Swahili. So, it could have been used in the English section of the Herald too, couldn't it? No need to translate it in either the English or Malay section. Just use it in both sections. And kids can happily be taught that Muslims and Christians alike, pray to Allah. That okay?
My question is, to Look.Observe, to all those who rave and rant about wanting the right to use Allah as the Christian God's name, and the people behind the Herald, did you really mean it when you said you call God, Allah? Honestly?
Herald, did you truly have no intention to cause confusion by using "Allah" as your translation of "Jesus" or "Christ" or "Our Lord"? If so, aver to the same. If it is indeed, commonly used amongst Malaysian Christians, then I am sure there would be no more complaints.
And to "Look.Observe", I do need to ask, do you really, and truly, pray to Allah, and - would you?
Dear Editor,
I read with interest the letter from Look.Observe "No one can order me how to call my God".
When I wrote in my blog on the matter, I chided Johari only because he said the word "Allah" is exclusive to Muslims. The exclusivity bit, was wrong. That, as we all know, is not the case, as the Arab Christians use the same. That was all to it. A correction of his statement.
But Johari's, and the Muslims' concerns, on the use of "Allah" in the Herald, are another. It was raised that the use of the word "Allah" here, that is in Malaysia, would cause confusion.
We all agree, Arab Christians, Arab-speaking Christians, have no other word for God but Allah. Because they only speak Arabic. God in Arabic is after all, Allah. No brainer. Maybe if they spoke Indonesian, they'd call God "Tuhan" or "Dewa". They, are, however, the exception. Ask any not well-read, never been out of the country American and he'd say, "Allah? Muslim God, ain't it?"
But here, in Malaysia, moreover in Malay, whenever "Allah" is spoken of, mentioned, and written about, it is synonymous with God as revered by the Muslims. I don't think that many Christians would ever think it is Jesus being spoken of when Allah is mentioned, or would pray or begin their prayers with "In the name of Allah.."
So, are there that many Malaysian Christians who speak Arabic? If that were the case, just highlight that fact then, to the Malaysians at large. The Malaysian Muslims truly didn't know before this that Malaysian Christians pray to Allah. They've always thought Malaysian Christians, referred to, and called their God, "Our Lord", "Our Lord Jesus" or "Christ".
It is only now, I dare say, that the Malaysian Muslims are aware that in churches across Malaysia, that Malaysian Christians pray to Allah. If that is indeed the case, then just confirm the fact. The Muslims can be taught to accept that. If indeed, that is the case.
After all, Muslims accept that Prophet Isa a.s. is one of their prophets, and accept that the Christians call him Jesus and pray in his name. No confusion or arguments there. They never said Jesus cannot be prayed to, or "Nabi Isa" cannot be used as a translation to Jesus. Muslims just want to avoid any confusion when "Allah" is used in the Malay section of the Herald.
In other Christian literature, "Jesus" is translated as "Isa", "Lord" has always been translated as, "Tuhan". So, now it's Allah. Even for many other non-Muslims in Malaysia, never mind the Muslims, that would definitely raise eye-brows! Do Malaysian Christians, in all honesty, when they speak about Christianity in Malay, actually call or refer to god, as "Allah"?
The writer, Look.Observe wrote, amongst others, that "..no one has the right to tell me how to address my God because my relationship with God is between me and God."
Well, nobody is ordering you how to addres your God. If you call your God, Allah, so be it. Nobody is stopping you. The people just need some clarification.
In fact, the word "Allah" is used ever so commonly across the world, in all languages, English, Malay, even Swahili. So, it could have been used in the English section of the Herald too, couldn't it? No need to translate it in either the English or Malay section. Just use it in both sections. And kids can happily be taught that Muslims and Christians alike, pray to Allah. That okay?
My question is, to Look.Observe, to all those who rave and rant about wanting the right to use Allah as the Christian God's name, and the people behind the Herald, did you really mean it when you said you call God, Allah? Honestly?
Herald, did you truly have no intention to cause confusion by using "Allah" as your translation of "Jesus" or "Christ" or "Our Lord"? If so, aver to the same. If it is indeed, commonly used amongst Malaysian Christians, then I am sure there would be no more complaints.
And to "Look.Observe", I do need to ask, do you really, and truly, pray to Allah, and - would you?
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Prove Johari Wrong!
I think to put an end to all the bickering, all the Herald needs to do is to put things to ease. Much has been written about this, be it on blogs, forums, like the esteemed mykmu.net who have recently “graced” my site, Malaysiakini and the rest.
As highlighted in my previous post, we all have to agree that many other religions or faiths do use “allah” as their reference to their gods, apart from the Muslims, who are more widely known and synonymous with submitting to Allah swt as the Almighty.
But, as Malaysians, you will be much aware of the fact that when it comes to Islam, the Muslims will not tolerate any attempt to cause confusion on the same. So what with the Muslims, many of you will say, if the Muslims are sensitive, let them be. Well, taking that attitude will not get us anywhere.
And more importantly, we should not let the matter go on, and “fought” out by politicians who only have their own interests to serve. UMNO will say they are fighting for Islam, DAP will say they are fighting for the Christians and so forth. Are they all, really?
Look, in the end it will just create animosity amongst us ordinary Malaysians. As if it is not enough that the politicians have tried to play the Indians against the Malays before this, only for their own political mileage. Don’t, don’t let them cause us Malaysians to detest each other. We, the rakyats, will end up the losers. They, the politicians, thump their chests with satisfaction.
This matter can be resolved without any politician championing “the cause”. There is no cause to be championed here. There are just some concerns of misconception, that’s all. Which can easily be put at ease. I believe the Herald will have no qualms in putting a disclaimer in its Malay language section, to the effect that all information, sermon etc in its literature is strictly relating to Christianity and has nothing to do with Islam.
Everyone is free to preach their cause, and nobody would want to be accused of misleading, especially not when one is in pursuit of expanding any faith! What kind of a faith would that be, spreading on the basis of misconception? The Muslims reject in totality the concept of the Trinity. Jesus is accepted by the Muslims only as a prophet, not god. Thus, the Christians, I am sure, will agree that the Christian God, even if called “Allah” in any literature in the Malay language, is not the same “Allah swt” as understood and worshipped by the Muslims. I am sure they do not wish for the people to think that it is, and that they are worshipping the same god. Both are after all, different religions!
Hence, prove Johari wrong! The people behind the Herald should show Johari up, show that they never intended to mislead anyone, let alone the Muslims who are in receipt of their literature, into thinking that the “Allah” that they use and refer to, is the same Allah swt worshipped by the Muslims. That is after all, the case isn't it? So it is just a matter of affirming the same. It would be different if the Herald says otherwise, then well, the Muslims have the right to be concerned!
Many may argue it is a hassle, but it is a small effort, I believe, that will clear the air. A small price, if at all, to maintain the rakyats’ unity. Just a disclaimer printed. That’s all. And especially if the Herald wants to show its sincerity, and is offering a solution. It is being accused of misleading, so show that it’s not.
If the Herald does not want to offer any solution at all, it risks its permit to be revoked forever. Fine, it will for a while win the hearts, the favour of many who think the Herald has been discriminated against, and it will be in the news for a while, but what would that achieve? Its permit will remain revoked, and it can only continue its work in flout of the law. If at all. And whatever for? Especially if they never intended to mislead or confuse anyone? Not wanting to do so would only go on to prove that the Herald intended some confusion. What's there to lose? You are preaching different things, after all. Surely not another march, this time, for the Herald needs to be held?
Try it. Offer this solution, and see if the authorities will budge. If they don’t, then … well, elections are under way. We choose our lawmakers.
Let the politicians find another cause to make noise about. Don’t let them continue to dance to and sing this dangerous tune. Don’t let them risk further incitement and hate amongst us. They love issues like this to enable them to emerge as our saviors. Some savior. But that’s what they do, and do best. They want us to think they are fighting our cause, in the end, ask them to answer honestly, if they can, and the answer is, they are only fighting their own.
We have a choice, either fall for the play and we go on harping on the issue, which can go on and on, or find a solution and have things done and over with. People, lets continue to live in peace and harmony, and try to do whatever we can to maintain so.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
As highlighted in my previous post, we all have to agree that many other religions or faiths do use “allah” as their reference to their gods, apart from the Muslims, who are more widely known and synonymous with submitting to Allah swt as the Almighty.
But, as Malaysians, you will be much aware of the fact that when it comes to Islam, the Muslims will not tolerate any attempt to cause confusion on the same. So what with the Muslims, many of you will say, if the Muslims are sensitive, let them be. Well, taking that attitude will not get us anywhere.
And more importantly, we should not let the matter go on, and “fought” out by politicians who only have their own interests to serve. UMNO will say they are fighting for Islam, DAP will say they are fighting for the Christians and so forth. Are they all, really?
Look, in the end it will just create animosity amongst us ordinary Malaysians. As if it is not enough that the politicians have tried to play the Indians against the Malays before this, only for their own political mileage. Don’t, don’t let them cause us Malaysians to detest each other. We, the rakyats, will end up the losers. They, the politicians, thump their chests with satisfaction.
This matter can be resolved without any politician championing “the cause”. There is no cause to be championed here. There are just some concerns of misconception, that’s all. Which can easily be put at ease. I believe the Herald will have no qualms in putting a disclaimer in its Malay language section, to the effect that all information, sermon etc in its literature is strictly relating to Christianity and has nothing to do with Islam.
Everyone is free to preach their cause, and nobody would want to be accused of misleading, especially not when one is in pursuit of expanding any faith! What kind of a faith would that be, spreading on the basis of misconception? The Muslims reject in totality the concept of the Trinity. Jesus is accepted by the Muslims only as a prophet, not god. Thus, the Christians, I am sure, will agree that the Christian God, even if called “Allah” in any literature in the Malay language, is not the same “Allah swt” as understood and worshipped by the Muslims. I am sure they do not wish for the people to think that it is, and that they are worshipping the same god. Both are after all, different religions!
Hence, prove Johari wrong! The people behind the Herald should show Johari up, show that they never intended to mislead anyone, let alone the Muslims who are in receipt of their literature, into thinking that the “Allah” that they use and refer to, is the same Allah swt worshipped by the Muslims. That is after all, the case isn't it? So it is just a matter of affirming the same. It would be different if the Herald says otherwise, then well, the Muslims have the right to be concerned!
Many may argue it is a hassle, but it is a small effort, I believe, that will clear the air. A small price, if at all, to maintain the rakyats’ unity. Just a disclaimer printed. That’s all. And especially if the Herald wants to show its sincerity, and is offering a solution. It is being accused of misleading, so show that it’s not.
If the Herald does not want to offer any solution at all, it risks its permit to be revoked forever. Fine, it will for a while win the hearts, the favour of many who think the Herald has been discriminated against, and it will be in the news for a while, but what would that achieve? Its permit will remain revoked, and it can only continue its work in flout of the law. If at all. And whatever for? Especially if they never intended to mislead or confuse anyone? Not wanting to do so would only go on to prove that the Herald intended some confusion. What's there to lose? You are preaching different things, after all. Surely not another march, this time, for the Herald needs to be held?
Try it. Offer this solution, and see if the authorities will budge. If they don’t, then … well, elections are under way. We choose our lawmakers.
Let the politicians find another cause to make noise about. Don’t let them continue to dance to and sing this dangerous tune. Don’t let them risk further incitement and hate amongst us. They love issues like this to enable them to emerge as our saviors. Some savior. But that’s what they do, and do best. They want us to think they are fighting our cause, in the end, ask them to answer honestly, if they can, and the answer is, they are only fighting their own.
We have a choice, either fall for the play and we go on harping on the issue, which can go on and on, or find a solution and have things done and over with. People, lets continue to live in peace and harmony, and try to do whatever we can to maintain so.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Monday, December 24, 2007
When you read, you also need to understand!
What do you think these guys from Kelab Maya UMNO wish to do to Hesitant Writings? This angry post was found on their site.
All I can say is, it's apparent the 1st guy didn't understand what I was saying, and the guy 007, who sounded like the big scary hero, understood less.
The guy 007 wrote :
Who the hell is the owner of that blog? Must everyone answer to every blog? Must everyone layan Malaysiakini? Why???
...
Sigh. Such anger. Chill man. And, do try t0 understand what was written initially. Then again, that may be too much for you guys!
....
to the rest :
Click on the photo for a better view, or, have fun, go on to :
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Watch those State Anthems!
From Malaysiakini's report :
Johari Ibrahim says : “Only Muslims can use ‘Allah’. It’s a Muslim word, you see. It’s from (the Arabic (language). We cannot let other religions use it because it will confuse people,” he said when contacted today.
excerpts from :
Johore state anthem : "Allah peliharakan Sultan.."
Selangor state anthem : "Allah lanjutkan usia Tuanku.."
and I can go on pasting lyrics from anthems of the remainder states with Sultans.
I am sure the Sultans of all states would not discriminate amongst their subjects, and would like ALL subjects to be sing to their respective state anthems with pride and love. Hmmm.. now perhaps, they can't and shouldn't, especially if they are Catholics.
Too strict an interpretation of what Johari Ibrahim says, you say?
Well, whilst I understand the concerns amongts Muslims, one thing that Muslims in Malaysia too, need to be aware of is that beyond Malaysia, say just across the waters in Indonesia, and further, Allah is used as a reference of and the name of God.
Islam is not about suppression. Islamic scholars actually invite everyone to have intelligent discussions and debates, to argue each other's cases. You cannot debate on Islam intelligently if you are not well-read. The first word in the Quran is after all, "Read".
The word ‘Allah’ can only be used in the context of Islam and not any other religion, said Deputy Internal Security Minister Johari Baharum, as reported in Malaysiakini.
If the word "Allah" is only for the Muslims, then how would non-Muslims wanting to learn the religion do so - can't they write, say or mention the word "Allah" in their quests, writings and queries?
Johari, all you need to do is ask the Herald to just print a disclaimer, to say that the Herald does not profess to write about Islam but instead, it is a circular on Christianity in its Malay section. Most of the Christian literature in the Malay language are brought in from Indonesia, which also refer to God as Allah, or Tuhan Yesus.
What do you want to do? Not let them write in Malay? To not let them print in the Malay language is then saying that "The Malay language is only for the Muslims." You better make sure you retain some sense, else the whole of Malaysian schools will be headed for trouble!
If you really speak on Islam, you would want to think that Allah is for all. He is the Most Merciful, Most Loving, Most Forgiving. Islam means submission to Allah, the one God. Allah never made Himself exclusive, yet Johari is.
Islam is in its simplest sense and meaning, submission to Allah swt, the one God. The people of the Book refer to Allah as God. So some religions reject Islam, but as they follow their versions of religion which perhaps are based on the Books, hence referring to their God as Allah, like the Arab Christians do. What do you want to do about them, Johari?
Well, if Johari wants to make Islam so narrow, then this is how narrow things can get. Go to the Arab nations, go after the Arab Christians who use and refer to God as "Allah". Johari, all you need to do, is Iqra'. Read, and sir, "read" does not simply mean read and let lost, it means you also need to understand, and use your brains.
Many people make reference to "Allah". What do you say to the Sikhs? Not let them use "allah" too? Even the late Lim Goh Tong once said during the Genting landslide, when asked about the cause, "Ini Tuhan Allah punya kuasa". Go take out the tv footage when he was interviewed at the mishap location. I recall that bit clearly! Now, I'm pretty sure he wasn't a Muslim!
(wikipedia :
Arabic-speakers of all Abrahamic faiths, including Christians and Jews, use the word "Allah" to mean "God". The Christian Arabs of today have no other word for 'God' than 'Allah'. Arab Christians for example use terms Allāh al-ab (الله الآب) meaning God the father, Allāh al-ibn (الله الابن) mean God the son, and Allāh al-ruh al ghodus (الله الروح القدس) meaning God the Holy Spirit (See God in Christianity for the Christian concept of God).
If only Johari is better read, he would have found this out within seconds and not make such statements. Then again, if he didn't, we wouldn't have things to make fun of. And if he didn't, he wouldn't have gotten the support from the poor pakciks and makciks who are not educated enough to understand the underlying reason for his statement. Make use of Islam to gain political mileage, why don't you...
Johari Ibrahim says : “Only Muslims can use ‘Allah’. It’s a Muslim word, you see. It’s from (the Arabic (language). We cannot let other religions use it because it will confuse people,” he said when contacted today.
excerpts from :
Johore state anthem : "Allah peliharakan Sultan.."
Selangor state anthem : "Allah lanjutkan usia Tuanku.."
and I can go on pasting lyrics from anthems of the remainder states with Sultans.
I am sure the Sultans of all states would not discriminate amongst their subjects, and would like ALL subjects to be sing to their respective state anthems with pride and love. Hmmm.. now perhaps, they can't and shouldn't, especially if they are Catholics.
Too strict an interpretation of what Johari Ibrahim says, you say?
Well, whilst I understand the concerns amongts Muslims, one thing that Muslims in Malaysia too, need to be aware of is that beyond Malaysia, say just across the waters in Indonesia, and further, Allah is used as a reference of and the name of God.
Islam is not about suppression. Islamic scholars actually invite everyone to have intelligent discussions and debates, to argue each other's cases. You cannot debate on Islam intelligently if you are not well-read. The first word in the Quran is after all, "Read".
The word ‘Allah’ can only be used in the context of Islam and not any other religion, said Deputy Internal Security Minister Johari Baharum, as reported in Malaysiakini.
If the word "Allah" is only for the Muslims, then how would non-Muslims wanting to learn the religion do so - can't they write, say or mention the word "Allah" in their quests, writings and queries?
Johari, all you need to do is ask the Herald to just print a disclaimer, to say that the Herald does not profess to write about Islam but instead, it is a circular on Christianity in its Malay section. Most of the Christian literature in the Malay language are brought in from Indonesia, which also refer to God as Allah, or Tuhan Yesus.
What do you want to do? Not let them write in Malay? To not let them print in the Malay language is then saying that "The Malay language is only for the Muslims." You better make sure you retain some sense, else the whole of Malaysian schools will be headed for trouble!
If you really speak on Islam, you would want to think that Allah is for all. He is the Most Merciful, Most Loving, Most Forgiving. Islam means submission to Allah, the one God. Allah never made Himself exclusive, yet Johari is.
Islam is in its simplest sense and meaning, submission to Allah swt, the one God. The people of the Book refer to Allah as God. So some religions reject Islam, but as they follow their versions of religion which perhaps are based on the Books, hence referring to their God as Allah, like the Arab Christians do. What do you want to do about them, Johari?
Well, if Johari wants to make Islam so narrow, then this is how narrow things can get. Go to the Arab nations, go after the Arab Christians who use and refer to God as "Allah". Johari, all you need to do, is Iqra'. Read, and sir, "read" does not simply mean read and let lost, it means you also need to understand, and use your brains.
Many people make reference to "Allah". What do you say to the Sikhs? Not let them use "allah" too? Even the late Lim Goh Tong once said during the Genting landslide, when asked about the cause, "Ini Tuhan Allah punya kuasa". Go take out the tv footage when he was interviewed at the mishap location. I recall that bit clearly! Now, I'm pretty sure he wasn't a Muslim!
(wikipedia :
Arabic-speakers of all Abrahamic faiths, including Christians and Jews, use the word "Allah" to mean "God". The Christian Arabs of today have no other word for 'God' than 'Allah'. Arab Christians for example use terms Allāh al-ab (الله الآب) meaning God the father, Allāh al-ibn (الله الابن) mean God the son, and Allāh al-ruh al ghodus (الله الروح القدس) meaning God the Holy Spirit (See God in Christianity for the Christian concept of God).
If only Johari is better read, he would have found this out within seconds and not make such statements. Then again, if he didn't, we wouldn't have things to make fun of. And if he didn't, he wouldn't have gotten the support from the poor pakciks and makciks who are not educated enough to understand the underlying reason for his statement. Make use of Islam to gain political mileage, why don't you...
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
What Racial disputes spinning out of control?
The Singapore newspapers are truly counting on people to just quickly read the first few lines of their papers and then forming their opinions. Below, they have reported in such a way that it paints the image of various races of Malaysians rioting against each other!
Oi! We Malaysians are not out to kill each other. We are just miffed with our politicians and even so, the last thing any Malaysian wants to do is to engage in racial riots!
Hindraf is not aimed at causing or inciting hatred amongst Indians against the Malays. Far from it. Hindraf just wants the economic problems faced by the Indians to be taken care of.
People, whilst we can freely debate and argue our cases and views, we do have to be wary of what others, especially those with all interests to see Malaysia falls flat in its face are trying to do.
With reports like this, and mind you, their papers are always reporting things that way, you know how Temasek group and their friendlies will pounce on the Malaysian Bourse the moment our blue chip shares topple following unrests or adverse reporting on the economic and political situations. With our Ringgit only barely half of theirs, the great Malaysia sale to them is all year round!
They already own Southern Johore as far as they are concerned. They already have their hands on Telekom and TNB, as the current regime saw it fit to let them have. Being Singaporeans, they want more. And they will do all to get what they want.
They are twisting the causes fought by Malaysians, they want us all to hate each other. Don't let them. We fight our causes, by all means, but be wary of these "batu api".
Apart from that, guess what? They have made Singaporeans embrace the notion that the only reason that Malaysia's economy is going down the drain is because Tun Mahathir keeps condemning each move taken by the PM. Yeah, TDM, whose every word no newspaper is allowed to print, is the cause. Well, except for Malaysiakini which had the interview with the man not too long ago. So, Singaporeans say it is not because PM cannot do much or doesn't know what to do, instead, he just cannot do anything as he is being sabotaged by TDM. I told my Singapore counterparts to read Malaysiakini or Malaysia Today to find out how Malaysians feel. How many Malaysians don't share Singapore's love for our current premier.
Singapore wants Malaysia to continue to be headed by the current regime.They love being able to do what they like.
Can't say I blame them, actually. They get to reclaim areas so vast that Johore gets flooded every year since the last few years badly as the areas around the Causeway can no longer flow smoothly. Nobody is stoping them. In return, the Malaysian Government gets to tell Malayisans that they are going all out to defend Batu Putih. Singapore, in turn, and as usual gets more out of any deal, are getting more land in Johore. They will soon get to buy land, property, set up businesses and livelihood in Southern Johore freely without the need for passports, just easily gotten chipcards.
Maybe they had to pay for the same, maybe not. If they did, who pocketed the funds? But hey. Don't speculate. You're only going to spread rumours.
If you were Singapore, wouldn't you have loved it, too?
From the Straits Times
Dec 19, 2007
KL eyes mediators to soothe race woes
KUALA LUMPUR - MALAYSIA will set up panels of mediators across the country from early next year to try to calm racial disputes before they spin out of control, a newspaper reported on Wednesday.
After 50 years of independence, race relations remain a thorny issue in a country that has suffered race riots.
Last week, the government jailed without trial five ethnic Indian activists from a group that brought more than 10,000 protesters into the streets over claims of race discrimination.
The panels of 10 to 15 people, drawn from unity department staff trained in mediation and neighbourhood watch officials, will work with the police and tackle problems on the ground to defuse any racial tension, the New Straits Times said.
'The committees have been given the task of achieving a win-win situation for all the parties concerned,' Azman Amin Hassan, the chief of Malaysia's national unity and integration department, told the paper.
The groups will initially be set up in the Malaysian capital and the surrounding state of Selangor, the northern island of Penang and southern Johor on the border with Singapore, it said.
'We are told that these are the states which have the most racial problems,' Mr Azman said, quoting federal police data.
Once informed by police of a clash or argument that might take on racial overtones, panel members would swing into action and try to resolve matters, he added.
Eventually, the government planned to widen the district-level panels to include grassroots leaders, local authorities and members of the police as well, Mr Azman said. -- REUTERS
Can't say I blame them, actually. They get to reclaim areas so vast that Johore gets flooded every year since the last few years badly as the areas around the Causeway can no longer flow smoothly. Nobody is stoping them. In return, the Malaysian Government gets to tell Malayisans that they are going all out to defend Batu Putih. Singapore, in turn, and as usual gets more out of any deal, are getting more land in Johore. They will soon get to buy land, property, set up businesses and livelihood in Southern Johore freely without the need for passports, just easily gotten chipcards.
Maybe they had to pay for the same, maybe not. If they did, who pocketed the funds? But hey. Don't speculate. You're only going to spread rumours.
If you were Singapore, wouldn't you have loved it, too?
From the Straits Times
Dec 19, 2007
KL eyes mediators to soothe race woes
KUALA LUMPUR - MALAYSIA will set up panels of mediators across the country from early next year to try to calm racial disputes before they spin out of control, a newspaper reported on Wednesday.
After 50 years of independence, race relations remain a thorny issue in a country that has suffered race riots.
Last week, the government jailed without trial five ethnic Indian activists from a group that brought more than 10,000 protesters into the streets over claims of race discrimination.
The panels of 10 to 15 people, drawn from unity department staff trained in mediation and neighbourhood watch officials, will work with the police and tackle problems on the ground to defuse any racial tension, the New Straits Times said.
'The committees have been given the task of achieving a win-win situation for all the parties concerned,' Azman Amin Hassan, the chief of Malaysia's national unity and integration department, told the paper.
The groups will initially be set up in the Malaysian capital and the surrounding state of Selangor, the northern island of Penang and southern Johor on the border with Singapore, it said.
'We are told that these are the states which have the most racial problems,' Mr Azman said, quoting federal police data.
Once informed by police of a clash or argument that might take on racial overtones, panel members would swing into action and try to resolve matters, he added.
Eventually, the government planned to widen the district-level panels to include grassroots leaders, local authorities and members of the police as well, Mr Azman said. -- REUTERS
A muffin too far
A BRITISH Airways steward has been suspended for theft – after he scoffed a MUFFIN left over on a passenger’s meal tray.
Furious staff yesterday blasted the “heavy-handed” move and compared the company to a “police state”.
The worker was told to leave his post after he was reported at London’s Heathrow Airport on Monday.
A BA worker said: “The cabin crew member on a long-haul flight took a muffin destined for the bin.
“Now his career hangs in the balance. Everyone is up in arms – it is a disgusting way to treat staff.”
The source said BA and other airlines had adopted a zero-tolerance approach that had left workers terrified.
They said: “Staff are scared of putting a foot wrong. BA is acting like a police state.”
An airline spokesman said: “One member of cabin crew has been suspended on suspicion of theft.
“While such incidents are extremely rare we take all allegations of theft extremely seriously.”
v.wheeler@the-sun.co.uk
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Malaysians' Teh Tarek Conviction
Initially, the legal fraternity won support when they staged what was dubbed the Walk of Justice. Then, the public at large, tired of the rising costs and upset with the system, welcomed Bersih. Next Hindraf came along with specific demands for the Malaysian Indians. We read every item every opportunity we can on Malaysiakini to keep up with events, to the extent that today, the site got jammed up!
But as I said before, Malaysians are a complacent lot. Our conviction, our passion for any matter, lasts as long as that teh tarek session. Once that is over, tired out after all the debating, the passion soon sizzles.
It's expected. Once enough sleep is gotten, stomachs filled, most Malaysians will wake up realising, hey, it's not my fight anyway. I was there initially as, yes, at that time I believed in it, at that time I was all fired up, but I've done my bit. But that's it for now. I did my part, it's up to the others to go on. Or, yes at that time I went along, but, see, I thought it was only right that I did go along, less I be seen as one having no conviction or not willing to do anything to make things right.
But like any other Malaysian, like any other heated event flaring up every now and then, we get fired up, then within a short span of time, we sizzle and then the fire quickly dies, without even leaving any smoke. Those who still go on, eventually are thought as pests.
Why? Because eventually we get fed-up with the traffic jams caused by the demonstrations. Eventually we all get tired of hearing the same old story. Eventually we just want to get on with our lives. Don't fret. It's just the Malaysian way.
Now we are told businesses in KL are adversely affected by the marches, the demonstrations. As true Malaysians, we all believe that others can go on with doing what they like for all we care, for so long as they don't affect businesses, as long as they don't bother us.
But if we are going to be consistently caught in road blocks, traffic jams and so forth, eventually, we will get fed up with that very cause we initially identified with. The authorities will tell you they have to carry out such acts to maintain peace. You will end up cursing that if not for the marches, demonstrations etc, there would not have been any road blocks and you would not have been caught in that dreaded jam.
You will end up swearing, “Do what you people want, just don't cause traffic jams. Don't cause detours. I was that close to my destination and could have arrived at work on time until all that road blocks, until I was told to take a detour by the police, all because of you”.
And then, you begin to agree with the authorities. Enough is enough. Ok, we heard you already. March elsewhere. Shut up. Do something else. Whatever. Just not around here.
Been there? Don't worry. It's just us being Malaysians.
But as I said before, Malaysians are a complacent lot. Our conviction, our passion for any matter, lasts as long as that teh tarek session. Once that is over, tired out after all the debating, the passion soon sizzles.
It's expected. Once enough sleep is gotten, stomachs filled, most Malaysians will wake up realising, hey, it's not my fight anyway. I was there initially as, yes, at that time I believed in it, at that time I was all fired up, but I've done my bit. But that's it for now. I did my part, it's up to the others to go on. Or, yes at that time I went along, but, see, I thought it was only right that I did go along, less I be seen as one having no conviction or not willing to do anything to make things right.
But like any other Malaysian, like any other heated event flaring up every now and then, we get fired up, then within a short span of time, we sizzle and then the fire quickly dies, without even leaving any smoke. Those who still go on, eventually are thought as pests.
Why? Because eventually we get fed-up with the traffic jams caused by the demonstrations. Eventually we all get tired of hearing the same old story. Eventually we just want to get on with our lives. Don't fret. It's just the Malaysian way.
Now we are told businesses in KL are adversely affected by the marches, the demonstrations. As true Malaysians, we all believe that others can go on with doing what they like for all we care, for so long as they don't affect businesses, as long as they don't bother us.
But if we are going to be consistently caught in road blocks, traffic jams and so forth, eventually, we will get fed up with that very cause we initially identified with. The authorities will tell you they have to carry out such acts to maintain peace. You will end up cursing that if not for the marches, demonstrations etc, there would not have been any road blocks and you would not have been caught in that dreaded jam.
You will end up swearing, “Do what you people want, just don't cause traffic jams. Don't cause detours. I was that close to my destination and could have arrived at work on time until all that road blocks, until I was told to take a detour by the police, all because of you”.
And then, you begin to agree with the authorities. Enough is enough. Ok, we heard you already. March elsewhere. Shut up. Do something else. Whatever. Just not around here.
Been there? Don't worry. It's just us being Malaysians.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Stop The Talk and Show what You've got!
We have marched. We have protested. We have ordered teh tarek after teh tarek, banged on tables, venting our frustrations and anger.
We have screamed "The system is corrupted. The judiciary is twisted. The economy is dwindling, prices and inflation continuosly rising."
Yes, we have read or even written blogs, read Malaysiakini and Malaysia Today, published our comments on those sites, satisfied that our words now are read by the many. Many, many are with us, we say.
Who's us? Are we going to really matter? The reason why the regime is not bothered to listen is because they know they are not going to get your votes. But they also know, that many of those protesting are not even registered voters, so it's not like the opposition is going to get your votes!
End of the day, no matter how fiery your speeches are, how many kilometres you have plodded through in your marches, you do have to realise that all that amounts to nothing come the elections.
So, are you then, a registered voter? Have you voted before and will you? If you are unable to answer "yes" to those questions, then, you might as well go home, pick up a copy of a magazine or tabloid, or flick those channels on Astro. Because raving and ranting on and on, marching on and on, isn't going to get you anywhere at the end of the day. You might as well cuddle up in the comforts of your home, because essentially, despite all the talk, you've done nothing and are not capable of doing anything.
Help keep that democracy. Help to truly make that change. Otherwise, someone is going to continue with the chest thumping, "I have the greatest landslide victory in history" and what can you say to that?? So you're not a voter, thus you didn't vote him. Well, you didn't help reduce that majority, did you? You let that chest-thumping happen.
At the end of the day, the votes count. You respect and uphold democracy? You make your voice heard. Even if you say the elections are rigged, at the every least, do your part and vote. There is no way they can rig an election too far, not a main one. If you are not a registered voter and cannot vote, save your breath. There is not much that you can do except be noisy. So don't blame the regime if again they win, and again with another landslide, because the people of Malaysia have decided that they should win.
There is yet this untested avenue to show our sentiments. We've marched, we've shouted. Now, get our votes counted.
We have screamed "The system is corrupted. The judiciary is twisted. The economy is dwindling, prices and inflation continuosly rising."
Yes, we have read or even written blogs, read Malaysiakini and Malaysia Today, published our comments on those sites, satisfied that our words now are read by the many. Many, many are with us, we say.
Who's us? Are we going to really matter? The reason why the regime is not bothered to listen is because they know they are not going to get your votes. But they also know, that many of those protesting are not even registered voters, so it's not like the opposition is going to get your votes!
End of the day, no matter how fiery your speeches are, how many kilometres you have plodded through in your marches, you do have to realise that all that amounts to nothing come the elections.
So, are you then, a registered voter? Have you voted before and will you? If you are unable to answer "yes" to those questions, then, you might as well go home, pick up a copy of a magazine or tabloid, or flick those channels on Astro. Because raving and ranting on and on, marching on and on, isn't going to get you anywhere at the end of the day. You might as well cuddle up in the comforts of your home, because essentially, despite all the talk, you've done nothing and are not capable of doing anything.
Help keep that democracy. Help to truly make that change. Otherwise, someone is going to continue with the chest thumping, "I have the greatest landslide victory in history" and what can you say to that?? So you're not a voter, thus you didn't vote him. Well, you didn't help reduce that majority, did you? You let that chest-thumping happen.
At the end of the day, the votes count. You respect and uphold democracy? You make your voice heard. Even if you say the elections are rigged, at the every least, do your part and vote. There is no way they can rig an election too far, not a main one. If you are not a registered voter and cannot vote, save your breath. There is not much that you can do except be noisy. So don't blame the regime if again they win, and again with another landslide, because the people of Malaysia have decided that they should win.
There is yet this untested avenue to show our sentiments. We've marched, we've shouted. Now, get our votes counted.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Floods and Fish Head Curry
Malaysiakini reported that many unlucky Malaysians are again faced with floods and evacuation.
Almost the same time last year, hundreds of thousands Malaysians celebrated Hari Raya Haji and Christmas in flood relief centres. They awaited help, needed funds, and they lived in uncomfortable conditions for almost a month for the many. And yet, the officiating of a fish head curry restaurant seemed to have mattered more, and needed the premier's attention more than their plights.
Maybe this year, they will be given due attention. Barring any other curry restaurant overseas needing the premier officiating it, that is.
Floods force evacuation of 4,585 people
Dec 8, 07 10:18am
Malaysian authorities said they were concerned floods in three states, which have forced the evacuation of 4,585 people, could worsen as torrential rains pounded the nation.
"There is now a heavy rain warning out for the northern parts of Johor and Pahang state as the rainfall there and the situation may worsen," Deputy Science Minister Kong Cho Ha told AFP.
"People's lives in these areas will be affected and so our advice to them is to monitor the weather warnings and act early when there is a warning," he said.
Almost the same time last year, hundreds of thousands Malaysians celebrated Hari Raya Haji and Christmas in flood relief centres. They awaited help, needed funds, and they lived in uncomfortable conditions for almost a month for the many. And yet, the officiating of a fish head curry restaurant seemed to have mattered more, and needed the premier's attention more than their plights.
Maybe this year, they will be given due attention. Barring any other curry restaurant overseas needing the premier officiating it, that is.
Floods force evacuation of 4,585 people
Dec 8, 07 10:18am
Malaysian authorities said they were concerned floods in three states, which have forced the evacuation of 4,585 people, could worsen as torrential rains pounded the nation.
"There is now a heavy rain warning out for the northern parts of Johor and Pahang state as the rainfall there and the situation may worsen," Deputy Science Minister Kong Cho Ha told AFP.
"People's lives in these areas will be affected and so our advice to them is to monitor the weather warnings and act early when there is a warning," he said.
Seek Comfort, People, as EC is impartial
Yes, in one breath he says that the EC is impartial, and within that same breath... our dear EC chairperson, Rashid, says, that in essence, the current government is the only one that is capable of running the country.If he believes that, (if?? laughs cue, everyone!) then we must believe that despite that belief, he will remain impartial, like how the judiciary is.
He went on to say, “(The independence of the EC) should be seen, not by some disgruntled politicians, but through the eyes of the whole rakyat. If the rakyat says, ‘I think Election Commission is independent’, that is enough,” said Abdul Rashid.
Yes. But of course. And on behalf of Malaysians, I pledge, and say, that we, Rakyats of Malaysia, do solemnly believe, and say, that "The Election Commission is independent".
We, the Rakyat, further aver that, we believe that pigs can fly..
relevant excerpts from Malaysiakini.
Rashid: No other regime capable of running the country
Fauwaz Abdul Aziz | Dec 8, 07 2:29pm
Election Commission (EC) chairperson Abdul Rashid Abdul Rahman let slip today his views on which ‘regime’ he regards as being capable of running the country, and said those who disagree with him do not realise the ‘critical’ situation the country is in.
“A lot of people are anxious to determine the type of regime that is going to handle Malaysia in the coming years. They are always talking about regimes. I never talk about regimes. There is only one regime in this country that is capable of running (it),” he said.
“People get angry with me whenever I say this (but) people don’t seem to understand the critical scenario in the country. What is it that can (take) over from the present one given the political scenario we are in?” he asked.
He went on to say, “(The independence of the EC) should be seen, not by some disgruntled politicians, but through the eyes of the whole rakyat. If the rakyat says, ‘I think Election Commission is independent’, that is enough,” said Abdul Rashid.
Yes. But of course. And on behalf of Malaysians, I pledge, and say, that we, Rakyats of Malaysia, do solemnly believe, and say, that "The Election Commission is independent".
We, the Rakyat, further aver that, we believe that pigs can fly..
relevant excerpts from Malaysiakini.
Rashid: No other regime capable of running the country
Fauwaz Abdul Aziz | Dec 8, 07 2:29pm
Election Commission (EC) chairperson Abdul Rashid Abdul Rahman let slip today his views on which ‘regime’ he regards as being capable of running the country, and said those who disagree with him do not realise the ‘critical’ situation the country is in.
“A lot of people are anxious to determine the type of regime that is going to handle Malaysia in the coming years. They are always talking about regimes. I never talk about regimes. There is only one regime in this country that is capable of running (it),” he said.
“People get angry with me whenever I say this (but) people don’t seem to understand the critical scenario in the country. What is it that can (take) over from the present one given the political scenario we are in?” he asked.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Nazri Aziz For Chief Justice
I am asking all fellow Malaysians to walk with me on this motion! We all love success stories, so since we are on the subject of meteoric rises to judicial appointments, why not let another meteor hit Malaysia.
So, rally on, gather on and cry out for Nazri Aziz to be appointed Chief Justice of Malaysia. He has all the necessary qualities : a law degree, speaks his mind with conviction, not afraid of anyone, has vast knowledge on Hindraf, Bersih or matters relating to Human rights, what more can you ask?
And who knows, he might also get along well with any other judge in the judiciary especially those who previously had UMNO links, or better, were UMNO legal advisors. See, we don't even have to worry or have any concerns of his getting along with other judges.
And to assist the Bar on the auspicious occasion, we have prepared a press statement, which can be published in all mainstream papers, even in alternative dailies like Malaysia Today, Malaysiakini for the matter.
"We, the Bar Council of Malaysia, despite thinking that there are other more suitably qualified person to be appointed Chief justice, nonetheless congratulate Nazri Aziz on his meteoric rise, on his unconventional elevation as Chief Justice. And as stated in our previous press release as regards the previous appointments, the Bar is looking forward to a new era of co-operation with the judiciary."
So, rally on, gather on and cry out for Nazri Aziz to be appointed Chief Justice of Malaysia. He has all the necessary qualities : a law degree, speaks his mind with conviction, not afraid of anyone, has vast knowledge on Hindraf, Bersih or matters relating to Human rights, what more can you ask?
And who knows, he might also get along well with any other judge in the judiciary especially those who previously had UMNO links, or better, were UMNO legal advisors. See, we don't even have to worry or have any concerns of his getting along with other judges.
And to assist the Bar on the auspicious occasion, we have prepared a press statement, which can be published in all mainstream papers, even in alternative dailies like Malaysia Today, Malaysiakini for the matter.
"We, the Bar Council of Malaysia, despite thinking that there are other more suitably qualified person to be appointed Chief justice, nonetheless congratulate Nazri Aziz on his meteoric rise, on his unconventional elevation as Chief Justice. And as stated in our previous press release as regards the previous appointments, the Bar is looking forward to a new era of co-operation with the judiciary."
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Not Just eye-brows raised here!
Eyebrows raised, hearts crestfallen - How I wish I never knew or heard of the notion of separation of powers. It may be easier for me to digest things, to live life in ignorance, in bliss. Maybe the majority of Malaysians can never, ever be fair and impartial after so long believing in one cause. To just the next day drop everything you've ever stood for and fought for politically for years and years. To not think of such affiliation when faced with deciding for or against any matter before you. But we must believe, that some people, or one or two persons, can..
As such, just because you and I can't fathom the idea, doesn't mean other super beings can't. So it is the minority few who can do so that we should give credit to. Some people are marvels, so I guess we should instead of raising our eye-brows, marvel at their abilities.. or like the Bar, congratulate these people.
Maybe many more members of the Bar would be elevated dato'ships.. who knows..
chosen excerpts from Malaysiakini :
Abdul Hamid is new CJ, Zaki is judiciary's No 2
Court of Appeal president Abdul Hamid Mohamad has been today appointed as the new chief justice, which is the judiciary's most powerful post.
Meanwhile Zaki Azmi - who has parachuted into the Federal Court three months ago - has been appointed Court of Appeal president, taking over Abdul Hamid’s former post.
The unconventional elevation of Zaki, 62, could pose another blow to the ailing reputation of the judiciary. Exactly three months ago, he became the first lawyer to be directly appointed into the Federal Court.
Zaki's lightning-fast promotion to the judiciary's No 2 post is unprecedented and is expected to raise eyebrows.
Zaki previously served as Umno’s legal adviser and disciplinary committee chairperson. He was also the party’s selection committee secretary and deputy chairperson of the disciplinary board appeal panel.
While congratulating both Abdul Hamid and Zaki on their appointment, Ambiga also said that the Bar was looking forward to a new era of co-operation with the judiciary.
It will be quite an era....
As such, just because you and I can't fathom the idea, doesn't mean other super beings can't. So it is the minority few who can do so that we should give credit to. Some people are marvels, so I guess we should instead of raising our eye-brows, marvel at their abilities.. or like the Bar, congratulate these people.
Maybe many more members of the Bar would be elevated dato'ships.. who knows..
chosen excerpts from Malaysiakini :
Abdul Hamid is new CJ, Zaki is judiciary's No 2
Court of Appeal president Abdul Hamid Mohamad has been today appointed as the new chief justice, which is the judiciary's most powerful post.
Meanwhile Zaki Azmi - who has parachuted into the Federal Court three months ago - has been appointed Court of Appeal president, taking over Abdul Hamid’s former post.
The unconventional elevation of Zaki, 62, could pose another blow to the ailing reputation of the judiciary. Exactly three months ago, he became the first lawyer to be directly appointed into the Federal Court.
Zaki's lightning-fast promotion to the judiciary's No 2 post is unprecedented and is expected to raise eyebrows.
Zaki previously served as Umno’s legal adviser and disciplinary committee chairperson. He was also the party’s selection committee secretary and deputy chairperson of the disciplinary board appeal panel.
While congratulating both Abdul Hamid and Zaki on their appointment, Ambiga also said that the Bar was looking forward to a new era of co-operation with the judiciary.
It will be quite an era....
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
So, Who's Emotional?
NST online 2007/11/30
Hishammuddin: No need to get emotional over Hindraf
PUTRAJAYA: Malays have been advised not to get emotional over the accusations made by the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf). Err.. who's emotional? UMNO only mah! up to Hindraf la to raise their cause.
"It did not represent the views of all Indians in Malaysia. In this matter, our enemy is not the Indian community. Hindraf doesn't represent all Indians, so be rational. ohhh.. you are so rational...
He added that whatever grievances the Indian community had, they were not the only ones sounding out a "cry of desperation".
"We hear this cry from all races too. Our policies address all races and such issues have been and will continue to be addressed. But we can't satisfy everyone overnight." And despite that acknowledgement, despite knowing, you do nothing....
Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin said the party should take legal action against members of Hindraf for alleging that Umno was responsible for the killing of Malaysian citizens during the Kampung Medan incident. Shut up la
"We have to set the record straight, otherwise many people will have negative perceptions of Umno," he said. What do you know about straight records?
Khairy hoped Umno members - particularly Youth members would react in a mature way to the provocation. Yeah, emulate you, o mature one..
"I deny the allegation that Indians are treated like slaves in Malaysia. The Barisan Nasional government is for everyone," he said. read : everyone who's in their party
Khairy added that certain quarters wanted to show that the people are upset with the government since elections would be held soon. Well, they are!
He also reiterated that Hindraf members did not represent the majority of Indians in Malaysia as those who participated in the illegal rally numbered a few thousand compared with the millions in the country," he said. Like UMNO youth?
"I am sure that the majority of Indians support the government and Umno." I bet you're so so right...
Hishammuddin: No need to get emotional over Hindraf
PUTRAJAYA: Malays have been advised not to get emotional over the accusations made by the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf). Err.. who's emotional? UMNO only mah! up to Hindraf la to raise their cause.
"It did not represent the views of all Indians in Malaysia. In this matter, our enemy is not the Indian community. Hindraf doesn't represent all Indians, so be rational. ohhh.. you are so rational...
He added that whatever grievances the Indian community had, they were not the only ones sounding out a "cry of desperation".
"We hear this cry from all races too. Our policies address all races and such issues have been and will continue to be addressed. But we can't satisfy everyone overnight." And despite that acknowledgement, despite knowing, you do nothing....
Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin said the party should take legal action against members of Hindraf for alleging that Umno was responsible for the killing of Malaysian citizens during the Kampung Medan incident. Shut up la
"We have to set the record straight, otherwise many people will have negative perceptions of Umno," he said. What do you know about straight records?
Khairy hoped Umno members - particularly Youth members would react in a mature way to the provocation. Yeah, emulate you, o mature one..
"I deny the allegation that Indians are treated like slaves in Malaysia. The Barisan Nasional government is for everyone," he said. read : everyone who's in their party
Khairy added that certain quarters wanted to show that the people are upset with the government since elections would be held soon. Well, they are!
He also reiterated that Hindraf members did not represent the majority of Indians in Malaysia as those who participated in the illegal rally numbered a few thousand compared with the millions in the country," he said. Like UMNO youth?
"I am sure that the majority of Indians support the government and Umno." I bet you're so so right...
Of Fakes and Genuine Imitations
Buying local newspapers now, to me, is like buying a fake watch at Petaling Street.
Why? Because the watches on display and placed on the tables along Petaling Street, i.e. the ones going for RM10-RM20, are like the local tabloids - cheap makes, and clearly fakes.
The watches that come in boxes, the ones taken out only to the "select few" called "Boss" by the peddlers (actually, they call everyone "Boss!") a.k.a "Genuine Imitation" - is called as such, based on the fact that these watches truly look like the real thing, every line, every detail from crystal glass display to automatic hands, and can set you back by RM100.
Now, these Genuine Imitations are akin to the mainstream papers. These papers are supposedly better written (at times), with claims of reporting the truth as they are regarded as "mainstream papers", yet ... the news are .. at best, Genuine Imitation (which in fact translates or equates "Genuine Lies"). That, makes as much sense as Genuine Imitation.
In view of that, I suggest that you obtain better readings : eg. the UK Tabloids, ie The Sun and Mirror.
It is more satisfying to read such tabloids, to relish in the juicy bits of gossip and all, as you already know that British tabloids such as these thrive on sensationalism. Knowing this, you can seek pleasure in reading them without further thought. This will certainly give you more reading ease and enjoyment, instead of, having parted with your RM1.20, or RM1.50 to buy and read the "mainstream papers", you end up agitated, angry, shaking your head profusely in disbelief, or, for the more well-versed in french, swearing *#@$! at the blatant lies or propaganda published.
Keep your money. Surf online papers, the costs for which you've already paid for via your internet line subscription. Just browse through online papers, from the Star online, Malaysiakini, Utusan, NST to the Malay Mail, Harian Metro and on to Malaysia Today.
So there. Read, and read for pleasure. Read without getting all stressed up. If you are going to read lies, don't pay more, if at all. Pay RM10 for a basic fake or RM100for a genuine imitation if you must, either way, you still end up with fakes.
Why? Because the watches on display and placed on the tables along Petaling Street, i.e. the ones going for RM10-RM20, are like the local tabloids - cheap makes, and clearly fakes.
The watches that come in boxes, the ones taken out only to the "select few" called "Boss" by the peddlers (actually, they call everyone "Boss!") a.k.a "Genuine Imitation" - is called as such, based on the fact that these watches truly look like the real thing, every line, every detail from crystal glass display to automatic hands, and can set you back by RM100.
Now, these Genuine Imitations are akin to the mainstream papers. These papers are supposedly better written (at times), with claims of reporting the truth as they are regarded as "mainstream papers", yet ... the news are .. at best, Genuine Imitation (which in fact translates or equates "Genuine Lies"). That, makes as much sense as Genuine Imitation.
In view of that, I suggest that you obtain better readings : eg. the UK Tabloids, ie The Sun and Mirror.
It is more satisfying to read such tabloids, to relish in the juicy bits of gossip and all, as you already know that British tabloids such as these thrive on sensationalism. Knowing this, you can seek pleasure in reading them without further thought. This will certainly give you more reading ease and enjoyment, instead of, having parted with your RM1.20, or RM1.50 to buy and read the "mainstream papers", you end up agitated, angry, shaking your head profusely in disbelief, or, for the more well-versed in french, swearing *#@$! at the blatant lies or propaganda published.
Keep your money. Surf online papers, the costs for which you've already paid for via your internet line subscription. Just browse through online papers, from the Star online, Malaysiakini, Utusan, NST to the Malay Mail, Harian Metro and on to Malaysia Today.
So there. Read, and read for pleasure. Read without getting all stressed up. If you are going to read lies, don't pay more, if at all. Pay RM10 for a basic fake or RM100for a genuine imitation if you must, either way, you still end up with fakes.
Authorities Have Acted Honestly!
I won't comment further on the Bar and its march, I've written earlier on this, but as far as the statements by the Bar Councl (marked bold in the article extracted from Malaysiakini below) are concerned, well, the authorities have acted honestly here! Truly!
The Bar Council had hoped that the march would have "demonstrated ...that the people can walk peacefully in unity for human rights...[that] It would have been an opportunity for the authorities to show to the world that we subscribe to these values.."
Well, if the Government condoned to the people walking peacefully in unite, or they indeed subcsribed to the notion of such values, they would have allowed the march. But surprise! surprise! they just simply don't. Plus, if they allowed that march, that means they have been unfair to Bersih and Hindraf. So, they are being fair to all. See?
Thus, the authorities are justified in their stand, i.e. in not allowing the people or the world, for the matter, to think that such rights exist. To allow the walk go on, would have implied that they indeed, uphold such rights. How could they? That would have been hypocritical of them!
So this time, you have to agree, they rightly stood their ground...
(Extracts from article in Malaysiakini)
For full story - http://www.malaysiakini.com/news/75641
Bar calls off Sunday march
Beh Lih Yi
Dec 4, 07 4:23pm
The Bar Council has called off its annual human rights day march on Sunday, ostensibly due to pressure from the authorities to obtain a police permit and it being branded as an ‘anti-government’ rally.
Ambiga said the lawyers’ march should not have become a controversial issue in the first place.
“Most significantly, it should not be vilified as affecting race relations or be regarded as an anti-government rally,” she added.
According to her, the event would have demonstrated racial harmony and that the people can walk peacefully in unity for human rights.
“It would have been an opportunity for the authorities to show to the world that we subscribe to these values. It is a missed opportunity,” she said.
...
The Bar Council had hoped that the march would have "demonstrated ...that the people can walk peacefully in unity for human rights...[that] It would have been an opportunity for the authorities to show to the world that we subscribe to these values.."
Well, if the Government condoned to the people walking peacefully in unite, or they indeed subcsribed to the notion of such values, they would have allowed the march. But surprise! surprise! they just simply don't. Plus, if they allowed that march, that means they have been unfair to Bersih and Hindraf. So, they are being fair to all. See?
Thus, the authorities are justified in their stand, i.e. in not allowing the people or the world, for the matter, to think that such rights exist. To allow the walk go on, would have implied that they indeed, uphold such rights. How could they? That would have been hypocritical of them!
So this time, you have to agree, they rightly stood their ground...
(Extracts from article in Malaysiakini)
For full story - http://www.malaysiakini.com/news/75641
Bar calls off Sunday march
Beh Lih Yi
Dec 4, 07 4:23pm
The Bar Council has called off its annual human rights day march on Sunday, ostensibly due to pressure from the authorities to obtain a police permit and it being branded as an ‘anti-government’ rally.
Ambiga said the lawyers’ march should not have become a controversial issue in the first place.
“Most significantly, it should not be vilified as affecting race relations or be regarded as an anti-government rally,” she added.
According to her, the event would have demonstrated racial harmony and that the people can walk peacefully in unity for human rights.
“It would have been an opportunity for the authorities to show to the world that we subscribe to these values. It is a missed opportunity,” she said.
...
Monday, December 3, 2007
What's in a Name
I believe strongly in respecting all religions, and to avoid any act which may upset others or amount to blasphemy for them.
But really... I couldn't believe it when I first heard of this hoo-haa..
Look.. if the kid was the one who named the teddy, then arrest the kid! See the logic?
It has been a while since I had a teddy bear, but last I recall, a kid's teddy is his/her most loved possession. Thus it's not as if a hated item is named as such. It will be calling the teddy with love and tenderness.
Plus... how come ordinary beings can be named, can be called with the very same name with Prophet Muhammad? and not all are pious, so shouldn't some of them be charged with blasphemy if they're called Muhammad and yet they indulge in the forbidden???
It is but the most famous, most used name in the world.
Sudan pardons British teacher, to be freed in hour
KHARTOUM - SUDANESE President Omar al-Beshir on Monday pardoned a British woman teacher jailed for 15 days for insulting religion and she will be released in an hour, a presidential advisor told AFP.
'She was pardoned thanks to the mediation of Lord Ahmed and Baroness Warsi. She will be released in about an hour,' Mr Mahjoub Fadl Badri told AFP.
A Sudanese court on Thursday jailed Gillian Gibbons to 15 days in prison for insulting religion by naming a teddy bear after the Prophet Mohammed at the exclusive English school where she taught in Khartoum.
Two British Muslim peers, Lord Nazir Ahmed and Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, from the upper house of parliament, were on Monday meeting Beshir at the Republican Palace after flying to Khartoum in order to secure a pardon.
The arrest and jail sentence of the 54-year-old mother of two sparked outrage in Britain and a diplomatic crisis between London and Khartoum, further straining relations already frayed over nearly five years of war in Darfur. -- AFP
source- straits times
I bet I'll get flak for this! maybe again, that's why this discussion never went to malaysiakini!
But really... I couldn't believe it when I first heard of this hoo-haa..
Look.. if the kid was the one who named the teddy, then arrest the kid! See the logic?
It has been a while since I had a teddy bear, but last I recall, a kid's teddy is his/her most loved possession. Thus it's not as if a hated item is named as such. It will be calling the teddy with love and tenderness.
Plus... how come ordinary beings can be named, can be called with the very same name with Prophet Muhammad? and not all are pious, so shouldn't some of them be charged with blasphemy if they're called Muhammad and yet they indulge in the forbidden???
It is but the most famous, most used name in the world.
Sudan pardons British teacher, to be freed in hour
KHARTOUM - SUDANESE President Omar al-Beshir on Monday pardoned a British woman teacher jailed for 15 days for insulting religion and she will be released in an hour, a presidential advisor told AFP.
'She was pardoned thanks to the mediation of Lord Ahmed and Baroness Warsi. She will be released in about an hour,' Mr Mahjoub Fadl Badri told AFP.
A Sudanese court on Thursday jailed Gillian Gibbons to 15 days in prison for insulting religion by naming a teddy bear after the Prophet Mohammed at the exclusive English school where she taught in Khartoum.
Two British Muslim peers, Lord Nazir Ahmed and Baroness Sayeeda Warsi, from the upper house of parliament, were on Monday meeting Beshir at the Republican Palace after flying to Khartoum in order to secure a pardon.
The arrest and jail sentence of the 54-year-old mother of two sparked outrage in Britain and a diplomatic crisis between London and Khartoum, further straining relations already frayed over nearly five years of war in Darfur. -- AFP
source- straits times
I bet I'll get flak for this! maybe again, that's why this discussion never went to malaysiakini!
Sunday, December 2, 2007
And the Pun Continues!
We'll never hear the end of this! This is akin with the initial brilliant idea later scrapped - ie whether Sheikh Muzaffar could have made teh tarek in space....
As stated in the previous Halal Car, the Best yet from Proton post
Malaysia firm's 'Muslim car' plan
By Robin Brant
BBC News, Kuala Lumpur
Proton believes it may have found a huge gap in the market
The Malaysian carmaker Proton has announced plans to develop an "Islamic car", designed for Muslim motorists.
Proton is planning on teaming up with manufacturers in Iran and Turkey to create the unique vehicle.
The car could boast special features like a compass pointing to Mecca and a dedicated space to keep a copy of the Koran and a headscarf.
As stated in the previous Halal Car, the Best yet from Proton post
Malaysia firm's 'Muslim car' plan
By Robin Brant
BBC News, Kuala Lumpur
Proton believes it may have found a huge gap in the market
The Malaysian carmaker Proton has announced plans to develop an "Islamic car", designed for Muslim motorists.
Proton is planning on teaming up with manufacturers in Iran and Turkey to create the unique vehicle.
The car could boast special features like a compass pointing to Mecca and a dedicated space to keep a copy of the Koran and a headscarf.
Stand your ground, Bar Council
Whatever your ground is. Or is it, march your ground?
It would seem that "Marching" is the in-theme of the Bar Council. 1st, The March to send a memorandum to the Prime Minister, when the Prime Minister was not even in the country, (you could have checked with his office earlier), now this.
So.. "this is not a protest march", as you put it, but it is a march, nonetheless!
Surely lawyers have better means to show their causes than just conducting marches every time a topic or issue comes up. If the International Human Rights Day is the excuse, have a charity run for it then, that would have lasted longer, with more participation. Surely permits for charity runs wold be easier obtained, it being non-political and all. And the message if printed on t-shirts of participants for the run would be more prominent than what, another series of lawyers in their suits marching?
Out of curiosity, the law is to be upheld, (well, at least lawyers argue in the name of the law), are you now saying the Bar Council will no longer have creed for the law?
The people are counting on you lawyers. Please, lead the people with the intelligence and decorum that lawyers used to possess. Leave the marches to Bersih or other organisations. You.. prepare the arguments, recommendations, studies, whatever, that befits your profession. Think about it, seriously. We expect the Bar to fight with brains, not engage only in public displays.
Until the, the people impatiently await.
see quote excerpt below :
[ambiga] "We would decide whether or not to proceed without a police permit once the police get back to us."
courtesy : Malaysiakini
Bar: Dec 9 event not a protest march
Yoges Palaniappan
Dec 1, 07 6:23pm
Bar Council chairperson Ambiga Sreenevasan has explained that the march on Dec 9 is not an anti-government rally but the Bar's annual event in marking the International Human Rights Day.
"The whole event is a celebration. It is the celebration of the International Humans Rights Day which falls on Dec 10," she said.
Ambiga said that the march would be peaceful in a manner causing "as little disruption to the public as possible."
She said the march is only one part of the three-hour program themed "Freedom of Expression though Art, Music, Culture and Conscience".
"It would only take 15 minutes out of the whole programme which is meant to encompass a whole range of activities which is attractive to a whole range of people," she said, adding that the two-year old program aims to raise public awareness about human rights.
Commenting on whether the Bar has obtained a police permit for the march, Ambiga said: "In our discussion with the police yesterday morning, we talked on ways to go ahead with the event with minimum disruptions."
She said she hopes to hear from the police on Monday as to whether a police permit will be given for the march.
"We want the cooperation of the police because it is good for the nation to celebrate the event in a united manner without caring which parties are coming for it. We want them to come as Malaysians," she said.
"We would decide whether or not to proceed without a police permit once the police get back to us."
'No news from Bersih'
Ambiga also denied knowledge that Coalition for Free and Clean Elections (Bersih) has voiced its intention to join the march.
Asked if Bersih has informed the Bar of its intention to participate in the march, Ambiga said: "That's what we read. But Bersih hasn't communicated to us its intention directly."
Ambiga also did not deny the possibility of Bersih or any other NGOs joining in the march.
She said the event is open for public participation; therefore it would not stop anyone from joining the Bar in its march.
"We have invited a whole range of people including NGOs, civil society groups, political parties from all sides of divide and also foreign embassies. We hope that this will be one event where everybody will drop their differences and join us to celebrate human rights," she said.
However, she said the bar is not interested in people going for the event and disrupt it. Therefore, she said he Bar is making its own arrangement of tight control to avoid disruption.
"We will ensure on our accord that no disruption is caused to our agenda, which is to celebrate human rights. We assure that we would not allow any party to hijack our event."
It would seem that "Marching" is the in-theme of the Bar Council. 1st, The March to send a memorandum to the Prime Minister, when the Prime Minister was not even in the country, (you could have checked with his office earlier), now this.
So.. "this is not a protest march", as you put it, but it is a march, nonetheless!
Surely lawyers have better means to show their causes than just conducting marches every time a topic or issue comes up. If the International Human Rights Day is the excuse, have a charity run for it then, that would have lasted longer, with more participation. Surely permits for charity runs wold be easier obtained, it being non-political and all. And the message if printed on t-shirts of participants for the run would be more prominent than what, another series of lawyers in their suits marching?
Out of curiosity, the law is to be upheld, (well, at least lawyers argue in the name of the law), are you now saying the Bar Council will no longer have creed for the law?
The people are counting on you lawyers. Please, lead the people with the intelligence and decorum that lawyers used to possess. Leave the marches to Bersih or other organisations. You.. prepare the arguments, recommendations, studies, whatever, that befits your profession. Think about it, seriously. We expect the Bar to fight with brains, not engage only in public displays.
Until the, the people impatiently await.
see quote excerpt below :
[ambiga] "We would decide whether or not to proceed without a police permit once the police get back to us."
courtesy : Malaysiakini
Bar: Dec 9 event not a protest march
Yoges Palaniappan
Dec 1, 07 6:23pm
Bar Council chairperson Ambiga Sreenevasan has explained that the march on Dec 9 is not an anti-government rally but the Bar's annual event in marking the International Human Rights Day.
"The whole event is a celebration. It is the celebration of the International Humans Rights Day which falls on Dec 10," she said.
Ambiga said that the march would be peaceful in a manner causing "as little disruption to the public as possible."
She said the march is only one part of the three-hour program themed "Freedom of Expression though Art, Music, Culture and Conscience".
"It would only take 15 minutes out of the whole programme which is meant to encompass a whole range of activities which is attractive to a whole range of people," she said, adding that the two-year old program aims to raise public awareness about human rights.
Commenting on whether the Bar has obtained a police permit for the march, Ambiga said: "In our discussion with the police yesterday morning, we talked on ways to go ahead with the event with minimum disruptions."
She said she hopes to hear from the police on Monday as to whether a police permit will be given for the march.
"We want the cooperation of the police because it is good for the nation to celebrate the event in a united manner without caring which parties are coming for it. We want them to come as Malaysians," she said.
"We would decide whether or not to proceed without a police permit once the police get back to us."
'No news from Bersih'
Ambiga also denied knowledge that Coalition for Free and Clean Elections (Bersih) has voiced its intention to join the march.
Asked if Bersih has informed the Bar of its intention to participate in the march, Ambiga said: "That's what we read. But Bersih hasn't communicated to us its intention directly."
Ambiga also did not deny the possibility of Bersih or any other NGOs joining in the march.
She said the event is open for public participation; therefore it would not stop anyone from joining the Bar in its march.
"We have invited a whole range of people including NGOs, civil society groups, political parties from all sides of divide and also foreign embassies. We hope that this will be one event where everybody will drop their differences and join us to celebrate human rights," she said.
However, she said the bar is not interested in people going for the event and disrupt it. Therefore, she said he Bar is making its own arrangement of tight control to avoid disruption.
"We will ensure on our accord that no disruption is caused to our agenda, which is to celebrate human rights. We assure that we would not allow any party to hijack our event."
Till the Next Better Partner Comes Along
This is disturbing, never mind that it is happening in China, soon enough it will infiltrate this region. More and more couples stop at one or two kids,wanting to make sure they can give the best (read : the most expensive, branded clothes, toys, fancy pre-school) to their kids.
China's "me" generation
19:04 ET, Tue 27 Nov 2007
By Chen Aizhu
BEIJING (Reuters) - Ten months after they tied the knot, Li Lei and Wang Yang, both 20-something Chinese professionals, decided it was time to break up so they could spend more time with their lovers.
They signed on the dotted line on their divorce paper less than 20 minutes after answering "no" to a few key questions -- "Do you have kids?" and "Any disputes on property?"
China's phenomenal economic growth has created a generation of "emperors" and "empresses", the now-adult children of China's one-child policy, who often put their needs before anything and anyone else.
Experts say many of this generation are unable to sustain relationships, a result of being spoiled only children, doted on by parents and grandparents who catered to their every whim.
"They are weak in horizontal bonding, communicating with the same generation," said Professor Fucius Yunlan, a U.S.-trained psychiatrist who runs counseling sessions in Beijing.
"They tend to apply a vertical approach to horizontal relationships."
With an enlarged sense of entitlement, some of these couples tend to part quickly. Counselors say some marriages fall apart after a week or a few months.
China launched the controversial one-child policy in the early 1980s to curb its population, now over 1.3 billion.
The restrictions, which vary from city to countryside, caused a variety of social problems such as a fast-aging society and a breakdown of family values which used to be based on the traditional Confucian ideal of a large and close family.
PROBLEMS OF THE RICH
The problem of grown only children having difficulties sustaining relationships is particularly pronounced among the affluent middle-and upper-classes who have accumulated enormous wealth from China's economic success.
Divorce figures in some cities show about one-third of all divorce cases involve children of the affluent "me" generation.
Brought up in China's economic and social turmoil of the 1950s and 1960s, many parents buried themselves in work to build a better life as the country underwent dizzying economic growth over the past two decades just as their kids reached their teens.
"They ignored the emotional education of their children," explained Prof. Fucius.
But in many cases, these parents showered their children with everything that money could buy as well as the emotional weight of high expectations for their only children.
Lu Qingyi, an economist and a day trader at the booming Chinese stock market, has set money aside to finance a car and a business for his 21-year-old son who is now thinking of aborting a finance degree in London to open a coffee shop in Beijing.
"Actually I've prepared a contingent fund for him in case he fails in the first business," Lu added. "But of course I keep it hush-hush".
SEXUAL MORES
Marriages among China's elite often seem to be more about amassing wealth than nurturing relationships, observers suggest. When a partner with better prospects comes along, some couples such as Li Lei and Wang Yang think nothing of breaking up.
It's a lifestyle that contrasts sharply to that of their parents who viewed marriage as a duty and divorce a shame.
"You will never ever find any trace in this generation of how we felt in the old days, guys didn't even dare touch a girl's fingers before marriage," said Gary Xu, 55, a Red Guard in Mao Zedong's chaotic Cultural Revolution who spent his teen years herding buffalo in the remote southwest.
In Xu's time, when youths studied Marxism and dreamed of becoming model workers, pre-marital sex could cost one a treasured job at a state-run factory or expulsion from a prestigious university.
Marriage was about a couple working together to earn a television set, a bicycle, or a fridge.
"Kids today start their relationship right from the bed," said Xu. "It's a completely new generation."
These days, cohabitation is commonplace and extra-marital sex is gaining acceptance. A new car, preferably a foreign brand, and a two-bedroom apartment, or at least a down payment on an apartment, is essential in a new marriage among the well-to-do.
Parents also feed the idea of marrying into "the right family" with a sound financial and political standing.
"If you marry into a rich and powerful family, you don't need to plan anything as everything will be set for you smoothly and perfectly," said a secretary, who asked not to be named.
"It will be a comfortable life. Why should we endure a hard life?"
The tens of millions of poor people in China's impoverished rural areas are too preoccupied with trying to eke out a living on incomes as low as $80 per year to mimic the mores of the affluent.
But in the big cities, experts are seeing a sharp shift in social values among 20-somethings from the wealthy elite and fast-expanding middle class.
"This generation faces a completely different set of reality versus their parents," explained Professor Fucius. "They are very much self-oriented, not others-oriented or social-oriented."
"Their parents listen to what the superiors, tradition and other people have to say. They listen to themselves."
© Reuters 2007. All rights reserved.
China's "me" generation
19:04 ET, Tue 27 Nov 2007
By Chen Aizhu
BEIJING (Reuters) - Ten months after they tied the knot, Li Lei and Wang Yang, both 20-something Chinese professionals, decided it was time to break up so they could spend more time with their lovers.
They signed on the dotted line on their divorce paper less than 20 minutes after answering "no" to a few key questions -- "Do you have kids?" and "Any disputes on property?"
China's phenomenal economic growth has created a generation of "emperors" and "empresses", the now-adult children of China's one-child policy, who often put their needs before anything and anyone else.
Experts say many of this generation are unable to sustain relationships, a result of being spoiled only children, doted on by parents and grandparents who catered to their every whim.
"They are weak in horizontal bonding, communicating with the same generation," said Professor Fucius Yunlan, a U.S.-trained psychiatrist who runs counseling sessions in Beijing.
"They tend to apply a vertical approach to horizontal relationships."
With an enlarged sense of entitlement, some of these couples tend to part quickly. Counselors say some marriages fall apart after a week or a few months.
China launched the controversial one-child policy in the early 1980s to curb its population, now over 1.3 billion.
The restrictions, which vary from city to countryside, caused a variety of social problems such as a fast-aging society and a breakdown of family values which used to be based on the traditional Confucian ideal of a large and close family.
PROBLEMS OF THE RICH
The problem of grown only children having difficulties sustaining relationships is particularly pronounced among the affluent middle-and upper-classes who have accumulated enormous wealth from China's economic success.
Divorce figures in some cities show about one-third of all divorce cases involve children of the affluent "me" generation.
Brought up in China's economic and social turmoil of the 1950s and 1960s, many parents buried themselves in work to build a better life as the country underwent dizzying economic growth over the past two decades just as their kids reached their teens.
"They ignored the emotional education of their children," explained Prof. Fucius.
But in many cases, these parents showered their children with everything that money could buy as well as the emotional weight of high expectations for their only children.
Lu Qingyi, an economist and a day trader at the booming Chinese stock market, has set money aside to finance a car and a business for his 21-year-old son who is now thinking of aborting a finance degree in London to open a coffee shop in Beijing.
"Actually I've prepared a contingent fund for him in case he fails in the first business," Lu added. "But of course I keep it hush-hush".
SEXUAL MORES
Marriages among China's elite often seem to be more about amassing wealth than nurturing relationships, observers suggest. When a partner with better prospects comes along, some couples such as Li Lei and Wang Yang think nothing of breaking up.
It's a lifestyle that contrasts sharply to that of their parents who viewed marriage as a duty and divorce a shame.
"You will never ever find any trace in this generation of how we felt in the old days, guys didn't even dare touch a girl's fingers before marriage," said Gary Xu, 55, a Red Guard in Mao Zedong's chaotic Cultural Revolution who spent his teen years herding buffalo in the remote southwest.
In Xu's time, when youths studied Marxism and dreamed of becoming model workers, pre-marital sex could cost one a treasured job at a state-run factory or expulsion from a prestigious university.
Marriage was about a couple working together to earn a television set, a bicycle, or a fridge.
"Kids today start their relationship right from the bed," said Xu. "It's a completely new generation."
These days, cohabitation is commonplace and extra-marital sex is gaining acceptance. A new car, preferably a foreign brand, and a two-bedroom apartment, or at least a down payment on an apartment, is essential in a new marriage among the well-to-do.
Parents also feed the idea of marrying into "the right family" with a sound financial and political standing.
"If you marry into a rich and powerful family, you don't need to plan anything as everything will be set for you smoothly and perfectly," said a secretary, who asked not to be named.
"It will be a comfortable life. Why should we endure a hard life?"
The tens of millions of poor people in China's impoverished rural areas are too preoccupied with trying to eke out a living on incomes as low as $80 per year to mimic the mores of the affluent.
But in the big cities, experts are seeing a sharp shift in social values among 20-somethings from the wealthy elite and fast-expanding middle class.
"This generation faces a completely different set of reality versus their parents," explained Professor Fucius. "They are very much self-oriented, not others-oriented or social-oriented."
"Their parents listen to what the superiors, tradition and other people have to say. They listen to themselves."
© Reuters 2007. All rights reserved.
2 down - Water under the Bridge?
So... Gamuda is out of the running, so is WCT.
Only a few big companies can boast of having the capacity to do these jobs..
wonder who will get it in the end and at what price to the people... won't be surprised if it's awarded to a RM2 company only recently registered... tsk tsk.. that would certainly not be a surprise.. hope sites like malaysia today or malaysia kini would keep a tab on the outcome of this!
Bearing in mind this piece wasn't taken from a local Malaysian paper..
Malaysia's Gamuda out of mega water project
KUALA LUMPUR - A consortium comprising Malaysian builder Gamuda and China Railway Engineering Corp has been nudged out of bidding for a RM4 billion (US$1.19 billion) water project as it failed to pre-qualify for the tender, the Edge newspaper reported on Saturday.
Another consortium of domestic companies led by WCT Engineering could have also met the same fate, the paper said quoting unnamed sources.
The project, which is sponsored by Japan, involves construction of 44-km long tunnel through mountains, two dams and pipelines in Malaysia's central Pahang and Selangor states.
Officials of Gamuda and WCT were not available for comment.
sources: Business Times, Singapore
Work on the project is expected to start next year and completed by 2013. -- REUTERS
Only a few big companies can boast of having the capacity to do these jobs..
wonder who will get it in the end and at what price to the people... won't be surprised if it's awarded to a RM2 company only recently registered... tsk tsk.. that would certainly not be a surprise.. hope sites like malaysia today or malaysia kini would keep a tab on the outcome of this!
Bearing in mind this piece wasn't taken from a local Malaysian paper..
Malaysia's Gamuda out of mega water project
KUALA LUMPUR - A consortium comprising Malaysian builder Gamuda and China Railway Engineering Corp has been nudged out of bidding for a RM4 billion (US$1.19 billion) water project as it failed to pre-qualify for the tender, the Edge newspaper reported on Saturday.
Another consortium of domestic companies led by WCT Engineering could have also met the same fate, the paper said quoting unnamed sources.
The project, which is sponsored by Japan, involves construction of 44-km long tunnel through mountains, two dams and pipelines in Malaysia's central Pahang and Selangor states.
Officials of Gamuda and WCT were not available for comment.
sources: Business Times, Singapore
Work on the project is expected to start next year and completed by 2013. -- REUTERS
Singapore Tells, Malaysia Quells
Whilst politicians in Malaysia give assurances that things are getting better, given that elections are under way, their neighbour prepares its citizens for the painful truth. Really, Malaysians may complain about the pending petrol prices, hoping that it won't happen, we all know that is simply a thwarted illusion.
Petrol prices will increase by at least 20%, that if Malaysians are lucky. Otherwise..
Shafie Afdal will tell you that he has his hands on things, that he has made sure prices will not rise, except for : bread, by RM0.30 at least per loaf, chicken (where retailers are currently selling at ceiling prices), the popular ikan kembong.. all of which are the staple diet of the majority of Malaysians. Yet in the same breath, he warns of the pending increase of petrol.
Yes, strange, the principles of economy held dear by him..
Anyway. It has indeed been a while since the inflation rates are published. Maybe the Singapore ones can be used instead... then again, their's are too high, and Malaysian leaders are saying "malaysia's economy is undergoing a significant growth.."
Truth? You can't handle the truth! This site lies, Malaysia Today lies, Rocky lies, Kadir Jasin lies, Malaysiakini lies, heck.. nation of liars!
Dec 2, 2007
Food retail prices set to rise as supplies get more costly
THE cost of meals at hawker centres and restaurants look certain to rise after food supply costs, particularly for imports, rocketed for the second month in a row.
Many eateries have yet to pass on the higher charges to customers but economists believe they will not be able to hold out for much longer given the severity of the cost increases.
Official figures released last week show that Singapore's domestic supply price index (DSPI) rose 4.9 per cent in Oct from a year ago but the food component of the index increased 10.3 per cent. This followed a 10 per cent jump in Sept.
While its more famous cousin, the consumer price index (CPI), tracks price rises faced by end-consumers, the lesser-known DSPI tracks the prices of goods made locally or imported that are retained for use in the domestic economy by the government, business or households.
This means that while the increase in the price of a bowl of noodles is reflected in the CPI, increases in the prices of the ingredients that go into making it - such as flour, meat and condiments - are reflected in the DSPI.
The DSPI showed that prices of live animals were 24.5 per cent higher in Oct than a year ago, while those of dairy produce and eggs soared 41.6 per cent.
Vegetables and fruit prices rose 5 per cent.
Fish, however, cost 0.5 per cent less than a year ago.
DBS Bank economist Irvin Seah warned that the new data signals that faster rises in consumer prices for food are probably around the corner.
read more from the straits times
Petrol prices will increase by at least 20%, that if Malaysians are lucky. Otherwise..
Shafie Afdal will tell you that he has his hands on things, that he has made sure prices will not rise, except for : bread, by RM0.30 at least per loaf, chicken (where retailers are currently selling at ceiling prices), the popular ikan kembong.. all of which are the staple diet of the majority of Malaysians. Yet in the same breath, he warns of the pending increase of petrol.
Yes, strange, the principles of economy held dear by him..
Anyway. It has indeed been a while since the inflation rates are published. Maybe the Singapore ones can be used instead... then again, their's are too high, and Malaysian leaders are saying "malaysia's economy is undergoing a significant growth.."
Truth? You can't handle the truth! This site lies, Malaysia Today lies, Rocky lies, Kadir Jasin lies, Malaysiakini lies, heck.. nation of liars!
Dec 2, 2007
Food retail prices set to rise as supplies get more costly
THE cost of meals at hawker centres and restaurants look certain to rise after food supply costs, particularly for imports, rocketed for the second month in a row.
Many eateries have yet to pass on the higher charges to customers but economists believe they will not be able to hold out for much longer given the severity of the cost increases.
Official figures released last week show that Singapore's domestic supply price index (DSPI) rose 4.9 per cent in Oct from a year ago but the food component of the index increased 10.3 per cent. This followed a 10 per cent jump in Sept.
While its more famous cousin, the consumer price index (CPI), tracks price rises faced by end-consumers, the lesser-known DSPI tracks the prices of goods made locally or imported that are retained for use in the domestic economy by the government, business or households.
This means that while the increase in the price of a bowl of noodles is reflected in the CPI, increases in the prices of the ingredients that go into making it - such as flour, meat and condiments - are reflected in the DSPI.
The DSPI showed that prices of live animals were 24.5 per cent higher in Oct than a year ago, while those of dairy produce and eggs soared 41.6 per cent.
Vegetables and fruit prices rose 5 per cent.
Fish, however, cost 0.5 per cent less than a year ago.
DBS Bank economist Irvin Seah warned that the new data signals that faster rises in consumer prices for food are probably around the corner.
read more from the straits times
Singapore Elders at It Again
Dec 2, 2007 Straits Times
No end yet to Hainan clan dispute
BARELY a month after they promised to make peace brokered by prominent elders, two squabbling factions of the Hainan clan here are at it again.
The usually quiet Kheng Chiu Building in Beach Road burst into life on Saturday when the two groups verbally jousted at the election of officials for the Kheng Chiu Tin Hou Kong Burial Ground, the financial arm of the Hainan Hwee Kuan here.
About 230 people, mainly men in their 50s and 60s, packed the meeting in the ground-floor hall.
In one corner were the incumbent office holders, led by Mr Wong Yeh Yuh, 72, chairman of the Tin Hou Kong council.
In the the other was challenger Foo Joo Peng, 55, president of the Hainan Hwee Kuan, which has a separate governing committee.
Mr Wong is an old-timer who has been in the council for about 20 years while Mr Foo represents the younger, reform-minded faction.
At stake was control over a company which has almost $40 million in assets, mainly three properties.
Controversy erupted when Mr Wong and his allies decided to call off the elections on the grounds that the meeting was turning unruly.
Mr Lee Ah Fong, who is in Mr Wong's camp, said that the meeting was called off as there were attempts to grab the microphone, with the situation teetering out of control.
Read the full report in Monday's edition of The Straits Times.
No end yet to Hainan clan dispute
BARELY a month after they promised to make peace brokered by prominent elders, two squabbling factions of the Hainan clan here are at it again.
The usually quiet Kheng Chiu Building in Beach Road burst into life on Saturday when the two groups verbally jousted at the election of officials for the Kheng Chiu Tin Hou Kong Burial Ground, the financial arm of the Hainan Hwee Kuan here.
About 230 people, mainly men in their 50s and 60s, packed the meeting in the ground-floor hall.
In one corner were the incumbent office holders, led by Mr Wong Yeh Yuh, 72, chairman of the Tin Hou Kong council.
In the the other was challenger Foo Joo Peng, 55, president of the Hainan Hwee Kuan, which has a separate governing committee.
Mr Wong is an old-timer who has been in the council for about 20 years while Mr Foo represents the younger, reform-minded faction.
At stake was control over a company which has almost $40 million in assets, mainly three properties.
Controversy erupted when Mr Wong and his allies decided to call off the elections on the grounds that the meeting was turning unruly.
Mr Lee Ah Fong, who is in Mr Wong's camp, said that the meeting was called off as there were attempts to grab the microphone, with the situation teetering out of control.
Read the full report in Monday's edition of The Straits Times.
Halal Car, the best yet from Proton
Wonder why this piece didn't make it big in Malaysiakini.com or Malaysia Today!
Hey.. doesn't the Quran come in various sizes? Which size would they decide on? Discrimination it is, if smoe sizes are omitted. And would the compartment for scarfs be a hanging closet or drawer?
Is Proton going to have a fancy R&D grant to look into this "design upgrades?"
Really! No wonder Volkswagen took off! Proton, just install mini-fridges in your cars... those that would keep small mineral water bottles. That will sell better!
Malaysia, Iran, Turkey plan "Islamic" car - report
Sun Nov 11, 2007 8:12am EST
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 (Reuters) - Malaysia plans to team up with Iran and Turkey to jointly develop what they called the world's first "Islamic" car, complete with features for Muslims, for the world market, Malaysia's Bernama news agency said. The car will incorporate features such as a compass to determine the direction of Mecca for prayers as well as compartments for storing the Koran and headscarves, it quoted the head of Malaysian carmaker Proton Holdings (PROT.KL: Quote, Profile, Research) as saying.
"We will identify a car that we can develop and produce it in Malaysia, Iran or Turkey," Proton Chief Executive Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir, on a visit to Iran, said.
"For Proton, we are more than happy because we have products that we can share," he said, adding that the move could help Proton cut down development costs, increase production volume and improve its economies of scale.
In August the state-controlled company reported its fifth straight quarterly loss, as sales continued to slide and its search for a global industry partner dragged on without success.
The Malaysian government has indicated it is willing to sell a stake in Proton to a global car maker and has been in separate talks with Volkswagen (VOWG.DE: Quote, Profile, Research) and General Motors (GM.N: Quote, Profile, Research), but so far no agreement has been reached.
(Reporting by Jalil Hamid; Editing by Greg Mahlich)
((jalil.hamid@reuters.com; 603-2333 8047; Reuters Messaging jalil.hamid.reuters.com@reuters.net)) Keywords: PROTON/ISLAM
(C) Reuters 2007. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution ofReuters content, including by caching, framing or similar means, is expresslyprohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters and the Reuterssphere logo are registered trademarks and trademarks of the Reuters group ofcompanies around the world.nSP133870
© Reuters2007All rights reserved
http://www.reuters.com/article/basicindustries-SP-A/idUSSP13387020071111
Hey.. doesn't the Quran come in various sizes? Which size would they decide on? Discrimination it is, if smoe sizes are omitted. And would the compartment for scarfs be a hanging closet or drawer?
Is Proton going to have a fancy R&D grant to look into this "design upgrades?"
Really! No wonder Volkswagen took off! Proton, just install mini-fridges in your cars... those that would keep small mineral water bottles. That will sell better!
Malaysia, Iran, Turkey plan "Islamic" car - report
Sun Nov 11, 2007 8:12am EST
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 (Reuters) - Malaysia plans to team up with Iran and Turkey to jointly develop what they called the world's first "Islamic" car, complete with features for Muslims, for the world market, Malaysia's Bernama news agency said. The car will incorporate features such as a compass to determine the direction of Mecca for prayers as well as compartments for storing the Koran and headscarves, it quoted the head of Malaysian carmaker Proton Holdings (PROT.KL: Quote, Profile, Research) as saying.
"We will identify a car that we can develop and produce it in Malaysia, Iran or Turkey," Proton Chief Executive Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir, on a visit to Iran, said.
"For Proton, we are more than happy because we have products that we can share," he said, adding that the move could help Proton cut down development costs, increase production volume and improve its economies of scale.
In August the state-controlled company reported its fifth straight quarterly loss, as sales continued to slide and its search for a global industry partner dragged on without success.
The Malaysian government has indicated it is willing to sell a stake in Proton to a global car maker and has been in separate talks with Volkswagen (VOWG.DE: Quote, Profile, Research) and General Motors (GM.N: Quote, Profile, Research), but so far no agreement has been reached.
(Reporting by Jalil Hamid; Editing by Greg Mahlich)
((jalil.hamid@reuters.com; 603-2333 8047; Reuters Messaging jalil.hamid.reuters.com@reuters.net)) Keywords: PROTON/ISLAM
(C) Reuters 2007. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution ofReuters content, including by caching, framing or similar means, is expresslyprohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters and the Reuterssphere logo are registered trademarks and trademarks of the Reuters group ofcompanies around the world.nSP133870
© Reuters2007All rights reserved
http://www.reuters.com/article/basicindustries-SP-A/idUSSP13387020071111
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Days of Hesitant Writings Began, reluctantly, on Dec 2, 2007
