Prana by A. Premnath

New Economic Model

2010-03-30T12:17:00.002+08:00

The Prime Minister has unveiled what I would like to call a 'preview' of the New Economic Model. The model is now open for public feedback, before it is set in stone during the 10th Malaysia Plan later this year.

I must say the NEM looks promising at the onset, with clear promise to dismantle associating affirmative action with race, and providing help for all those who need it, regardless of race. Sounds promising, but I'll hold my horses until this is actually implemented.

The other two key initiatives under the NEM are to transform Malaysia into a high-income economy, doubling the per capita income from 7k USD per annum to 15k USD per annum, and to ensure a sustainable economy for the future generation. Not much details on how this is to be achieved though.

The PM has, however, unveiled some steps that will help move towards the direction of a sustainable, high-income economy that caters for all races. 1Malaysia.

State investor Khazanah to sell 32 percent stake in Pos Malaysia.

To list stakes in two Petronas units.

Facilitate foreign direct and domestic direct investments in emerging industries/sectors.

Remove distortions in regulation and licensing, including replacement of Approved Permit system with a negative list of imports.

Reduce direct state participation in the economy.

Divest GLCs in industries where the private sector is operating effectively.

Strengthen the competitive environment by introducting fair trade legislation.

Set up an Equal Opportunity Commission to cover discriminatory and unfair practices.

Review remaining entry restrictions in products and services sectors.

Phase out price controls and subsidies that distort markets for goods and services.

Apply government savings to a wider social safety net for the bottom 40 percent of households, prior to subsidy removal.

Have zero tolerance for corruption.

Create a transformation fund to assist distressed firms during the refom period.

Easing entry and exit of firms as well as high skilled workers.

Simplify bankruptcy laws pertaining to companies and individuals to promoteo vibrant entrepreneurship.

Improve access to specialised skills.

Use appropriate pricing, regulatory and strategic policies to manage non-renewable resources sustainably.

Develop a comprehensive energy policy.

Develop banking capacity to assess credit approvals for green investment using non-collateral based criteria.

Liberalise entry of foreign experts specialising in financial analysis of viability of green technology projects.

Reduce wastage and avoid cost overrun by better controlling expenditure.

Establish open, efficient and transparent government procurement process.

Adopt international best practices on fiscal transparency.

Of Indian beggars and Chinese prostitutes

2010-02-03T00:11:00.003+08:00

It has been so long since I last blogged, I almost forgot I have a blog! So I can't blame my readers, yes all two of you, for deserting this space. :)

Humour aside, there was a little less pleasant episode today, when a certain Datuk Nasir, a senior aide to the Prime Minister, no less, went bonkers at a Rapat 1Malaysia seminar where he was representing the Prime Minister.

Dato Nasir was quoted saying that Indians came to these country as beggars, and Chinese women as prostitutes. He had earlier condemned the MIC and the Indian community for 'forcing the government on the 12 subjects in SPM issue'. He is alleged to have then threatened that the government can withdraw citizenship of Indian and Chinese Malaysians, whom he is said to have labelled 'pendatang'.

MIC leaders, including Pemuda MIC, condemns his statement, which is obviously poles apart from his very boss's 1Malaysia concept. We find his statement nothing short of seditious, and have lodged a police report to that effect.

We were informed a short while after we made the report that Dato Nasir had since resigned, and a statement to this effect had been announced by the Prime Minister's office. While Pemuda MIC accepts his apology and resignation as a political response to safeguard the Prime Minister's sincerity in promoting 1Malaysia, we still insist strongly that the police carry out their investigation, and charge Dato Nasir in a court of law for sedition.

Barisan Nasional and the MIC in particular have been working hard to win back the ground that we lost in the last General Election. We are working overtime to prove that we have heard the loud calls for change, and we ARE changing. The people first, performance now motto of the Prime Minister is no show. It is real, it is something seen on the ground. But every now and then, a clown like this comes along to ruin everything we do.

I thank the Prime Minister for his prompt response. I also thank my friends in Pemuda UMNO for standing by us. Let this be a lesson to all in BN, that we must speak with one voice and one vision, if we want to gain back what we have lost. We must reign in the loose cannons that tarnish our collective image.

Get your facts right before protesting

2009-12-08T17:41:00.003+08:00

I really wonder if the inability of some Malaysians to differentiate between Hak-hak Keistimewaan orang Melayu, Ketuanan Melayu and Dasar Ekonomi Baru, is intentional, or are they honestly confused?

I write this in response to the protest by an NGO, against DAP MP M. Kulasegaran. Yes, he's from the DAP, I'm from the MIC. We may be on different sides of the political divide, but I think the man deserves a little breathing space, rather than the unjust hounding he is receiving of late with regards to his questioning the Ketuanan Melayu slogan. The NGO has promised to 'look for him no matter which corner of the world he is in, unless he apologizes'. Why apologize?

First, let us look at the three issues. Hak-hak Keistimewaan orang Melayu, or the Special Rights of the Malay community, as enshrined in the constitution, states that Islam is the official religion of the state, but non-Muslims are allowed to practise their religion without fear or favour. It also states that Malay is the official language of the state. THAT is it. Religion, language. THAT is also what our forefathers agreed during the Social Contract.

Ketuanan Melayu on the other hand, is a slogan. It has no official bearing on the nation. It is more of a battle cry, something without a proper legal definition. Instead, it literally means Malay Supremacy, which as its name suggest, is inherently racist. It is NOT something in the constitution, neither is it anywhere in the policy of the nation or government. In fact, it is well against the concept of 1Malaysia, which is exactly what YB Kula has said. So what is there to apologize?

Dasar Ekonomi Baru or New Economic Policy, is a national economic framework, espousing economic benefits, originally meant to give a helping hand to the Malay community to get a slice of the economic pie. It originally came with an expiry date, which is now conveniently forgotten, and has since been extended with every 5-year Malaysia Plan. Again, it is NOT something in the constitution. It is just an economic plan, which by the admission of no less than our Second Finance Minister himself, is crippling the nation's competitive edge.

Nowhere in the constitution does it say that a Bumiputera must receive a discount when he buys a house. It is just something part of a governmental policy, and again, it need not be forever, and is certainly not beyond question or review. Nowhere does it say, also, Bumiputera students should get an easier ride into places of higher education, or should be given priority for scholarship. All that is government policy, done for a certain reason, good or bad, and is certainly not beyond question or review. It is certainly wrong for me, or anyone else, to ask that these policies be reviewed to better suit current times, and a globally changing competitive climate.

The non-Bumiputeras, the majority at least, have no problems with the Special Rights of the Malays, as enshrined by the constitution. That's the Social Contract. We respect that. No problem. Let Islam be the official religion. But don't force it upon us. Because THAT violates OUR constitutional rights. Let Malay be the official language of the Federation. But don't rob us of our rights to speak, read, write and be educated in our mother languages. Because THAT is our constitutional right.

What we ARE asking, and questioning, is merely the OTHER two. Get rid of Ketuanan Melayu. It's racist. Instead, let us embrace 1Malaysia. Get rid of DEB. It has outlived its usefullness. Replace it instead with a system that helps the poor across all race and religious boundaries. Again, that is 1Malaysia.

Just because someone questions something well within their rights to question, doesn't mean you can claim that the person 'should not say anything that can jeopardize the harmony among the races'. In the first place, if I, or anyone else, asks a LEGITIMATE question, and someone gets upset unnecessarily, arrest him instead! Of course, if someone DOES question the Special Rights of the Malays as enshrined in the constitution, then one can at least justify condemning him. But to confuse Ketuanan Melayu and DEB with the Special Rights, is not only wrong, it is downright cunning.

So the next time you want to come out on the streets and protest, and ask for our blood, get your facts right first!

10 Subject Ceiling for SPM - What's the big deal?

2009-12-01T21:27:00.002+08:00

Well, it IS a big deal. Here's why. Let us take a typical Science stream SPM students. Now, seven subjects are compulsory. They are Bahasa Malaysia, English, Mathematics, Moral Studies (or Islamic studies for Muslims), History and two Science Subjects out of the main three, i.e. Physics, Chemistry and Biology. (For Arts stream, it's six, i.e. the five core subjects, and Basic Science). Most schools plan their time table in such a way, that it is pretty much a 'package deal' that a pure science student would take all the three science subjects, and Additional Maths. So that makes it nine subjects. Which means, the student has only one extra subject to take, and more often than not, it would be Accounts, or another subject that is already being taught in the school. There you go, ten. Maximum. Which also means, the student is pretty much prevented from taking Tamil, Tamil Literature and/or Chinese, Chinese Literature.

The Director-General of Education released a nonsensical statement today defending the ten subject rule, saying a student can always drop an elective subject, say Physics, to accommodate a vernacular subject, if the student was interested in pursuing a career in medicine. He went on to even suggest that schools may offer vernacular subjects as 'certificate courses', with school-level assessment. Third, he had the audacity to suggest that vernacular subjects were not that important, since "education is continuous, so the students can always study vernacular subjects later". Downright idiotic!

I can't speak for my Chinese friends, but I know for a fact that Tamil language is facing extinction, within Malaysian Indians. Many can't even speak proper Tamil, let alone read and/or write. We have an uphill battle keeping Tamil alive, as it is, without the Education Ministry further frustrating efforts with their new ruling.

Besides, how many students are willing to sacrifice subjects taught in school, just to take Tamil and/or Tamil Literature. How can we expect a student, at four four, barely sixteen, to drop Physics since he is planning to do medicine, and take Tamil instead? I think that's a rather heavy decision to force on a student, considering dropping Physics would put him/her at a disadvantage in pursuing many career paths!

Even if a student is really keen in taking Tamil as an SPM subject, at the heavy cost of another subject, how many schools even have proper teachers teaching Tamil? The Ministry actually has a ruling that a school must have a minimum of fifteen students taking the subject, to even offer classes. This conveniently allows many schools to forget the subject even exists, or even discourage students taking an extra subject. Students who take Tamil at SPM level today, already do so at a great disadvantage, and put in individual effort. To do so after the new ruling, and pay such a high price, even I would not dare to encourage someone to take Tamil! Even if somehow, the student finds a way to squeeze in Tamil, you can sure as anything, forget about Tamil Literature in addition to that!

We're not asking for much. Just increase the maximum to 12 subjects. It shouldn't be that great a deal, considering only last year we had students boasting up to 21 A's in the newspapers. So if we could have students taking that many subjects previously, I don't see any considerable reason why we need to be so stringent all of a sudden. Unless of course, as some claim, and I sure hope not, there IS a planned, secret agenda to rid the country of vernacular education. I for one, and the MIC that I represent, will simply NOT LET THAT HAPPEN!

Polis Raja di Malaysia v2.0

2009-11-18T17:30:00.002+08:00

The same headlines are back. Indian youth(s) shot by police. As usual, it is always 'a case self defense', and the dead are 'known to have a criminal history'. The usual miracle of course, not one cop has a scratch, not one suspect is spared. Just how does one define 'criminal history' by the way? Did those arrested have a record of past convictions? Does that amount to criminal history? Or did they merely have their name jotted down in some detective's diary as suspects in some yet unsolved case?

To make matters worse, the sister of one of the accused, in a fit of madness after hearing of her brother's demise, decides to end her own life with paraquat. But not before feeding her four children with it! She just died this afternoon, while her children are still warded. Sad. Stupid, but sad.

Whatever it is, extrajudicial killing is murder. Nothing less and nothing more. It is something that cannot be tolerated. The police are paid with taxpayer's money. We, the rakyat, pay you, the police, to serve us! Not shoot us. If someone does something wrong, arrest them, charge them!

Within days of the Famous Five, another guy gets killed. Deva gang's leader they say. Fancy that. I always thought Deva Gang's leader would be a guy called Deva. Anyway, whatever his name, he's dead now. No questions, no answers. Dead.

That's not all. In Johor, we have a case of a mentally unstable man, who allegedly killed his own mom, dead in police custody, hanging himself with a pillowcase. Why was a mentally unstable murder suspect given a pillow case which he can use to hang himself, apart from many other things, in the first place? I didn't know that was a luxury we provided in our lockups!

The sad truth is, this is not the first time we hear such stories, and it will not be the last, unless something concrete is done. Let's put an end to this once and for all. Bring the IPCMC. Enough delaying. Install cameras in all police patrol cars. It will cost peanuts compared the other rubbish we waste government money on!

2009-10-23T18:29:00.002+08:00

The PM presented the governments budget for 2010 in parliament a few minutes ago. Below are some of the key items he has announced. They items below are a compilation of my status updates in Facebook, as the PM was giving his budget speech.

PM has finished presenting the budget, ended his speech with spirited promises of 1Malaysia for all.
RM 500 one-off payments for civil servants and pensioners, up to grade 58.
Public Transport to be given priority. New Komuter trains, LRTs, stations to be improved.
EPF increased to 11% voluntary, special scheme for self-employed, tax rebate increased to 7k from current 6k.
3 billion units of Sukuk 1Malaysia announced.
1Malaysia clinics to be introduced in housing areas, 50 clinics to begin with, manned by MAs, to improve public healthcare. Clinics to be open until 10pm daily.
Federal Territories Ministry renamed Federal Territory and Public Welfare Ministry, measures announced to curb urban poverty.
Various measures announced to eradicate hardcore poverty, women empowerment.
Crime prevention to be given top priority, especially snatch thefts. Various measures announced to beef up police and other agencies.
Income tax reduced from 27% to 26%, personal relief increased from 8k to 9k per person.
New system to ensure only those who are needy receive gov subsidies, including discounted petrol price, using Mykad, to be introduced early 2010.
RM 50 per year service tax per credit card, RM 25 per supplementary card. This is to reign in credit expenditure.
In battle against corruption, Gov to introduce Whistle-blower Act, 14 new Sessions Court, MACC to be beefed up.
Gov to review laws, take stern action to curb Ah Long menace.
Gov universities to be given greater autonomy in HR and student matters, allowed to form companies to generate income.
PM announces Netbooks with broadband for 100,000 uni students, at discounted price, by TM, MCMC.
30 National Scholarships for top achievers, purely on merit, to study in top unis around the world. P
Preschool to be absorbed into school curriculum, to increase entrance percentage from 67% to 87% by 2012, 20 schools to be made 'Prestige Schools', autonomy in school administration.
PM has announced tax rebate up to RM500 per year for broadband subscription.

Deepavali Nalvazhtukkal

2009-10-18T22:59:00.002+08:00

Happy Deepavali to all Hindus, and happy holidays to all! Hope you have a blessed celebration. Let us not forget the less fortunate during these festive times, and let us build greater bonds with family and friends as we all celebrate together.

Bagan Pinang

2009-09-30T12:51:00.003+08:00

Yet another by-election, this time in Negeri Sembilan. The candidate for Barisan Nasional is none other than Tan Sri Isa Samad, the former Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar and one-time UMNO strongman.

The opposition will no doubt harp on the fact that Tan Sri Isa was suspended from UMNO for three years for money politics. In fact, it is probably the only local issue they can harp on, in addition to the usual bunch of standard issues they bring up all the time.

Yes, he was found guity of money politics. Yes, he was suspended from UMNO. Yes, he is a 'tainted' candidate if one wishes to say so. Yet why him? Because the people of Bagan Pinang want him. They simply love him. No, it is not just me saying that, it is not even BN, this was the result of a survey done by PAS themselves! Why? Because he is a man who goes down to the ground, who mixes with the people, who genuinely helps the people.

According to one local voter who came to the candidacy announcement event, Tan Sri Isa is apparently good with names. He makes an extra effort to remember the names of people, some of whom he has only met once!

The opposition know they cannot beat this man. Not in Bagan Pinang. You can engineer a thousand by-elections in your strong areas, and claim that the 'tide is shifting' against BN, but we'll put a stop to your 'shifting tide' here. Once and for all.

The ONLY thing Pakatan Rakyat hopes to get from this election, is to publicize the fact that a 'tainted' candidate was fielded by UMNO. 'BN endorses corruption' they will say. Well, say what you want. That's about all PR seems to do. Talk. We've seen it in Kampung Buah Pala, and just about everywhere else. Just one thing, don't forget your supreme leader is an ex-convict, your Penang Chief Minister is an ex-convict, many of your MPs have spent time in prison and paid fines. So look at yourself first before talking about 'tainted' candidates.

Merdeka and True Patriotism

2009-09-01T11:22:00.003+08:00

The nation celebrated its 52nd birthday yesterday. Many people sent Merdeka wishes to each other. Many more posted Merdeka greetings on blogs, Facebook etc. A select few, very few I might add, paraded flags on their cars, houses etc. To the majority of Malaysians, Merdeka simply meant a public holiday, a long weekend. In fact, if you had not tuned in to local tv stations, or read the mainstream newspapers, you might have just missed it entirely, and you are hardly to blame. The simple truth is many Malaysians simply do not have a patriotic sense of love and belonging to the nation.

Many of my friends ridiculed the Merdeka Day itself, saying it there is no true Merdeka until Indians are treated equally in this country. Several pointed to the cow head incident in Shah Alam, saying the incident overshadowed the entire meaning of Merdeka. I am just as disturbed by you over the incident, and cannot wait for justice to be done. Quite frankly, I do not blame you for thinking along those lines. I cannot say I do not agree with you either. It is a fact that the Indians in this country are treated like third class citizens. I do feel things are on the positive rise, but nevertheless, until we see concrete changes, I really cannot expect the majority to feel a sense of belonging overnight. The one thing that I can point out it, let us not mistake loyalty to the government, support for any political party, and love for the country. Let us not blame the country for our misgivings. The country never discriminated against anyone. People did. People in goverment, people who want to be in government, people.

Like it or not, we are Malaysians. We were born Malaysians, live our lives as Malaysians, and we will die Malaysians. Non-Malay Malaysians are mere tourists in India or China. We do not belong there, neither do they want us there. Many migrate to the US, Europe, Australia, but they will never cease to be Malaysians. They may have new passports, but in their hearts, there is always Malaysia.

Things are not rosy here in Malaysia. But things will change. We will change. First, we must BE that change. We must believe in the change. One cannot sit and whine and complain, but not do your part for a better Malaysia. My message for my fellow Malaysians, BE Malaysian. Do not think of yourself as Malay, Chinese of Indian. Think of yourself as Malaysian first. Others may continue to look at you through the racial lense. But if you yourself continue to look at yourself as Malay or Chinese or Indian, you lose the right to complain, in my opinion.

I have hope on the Prime Minister's 1Malaysia concept. It is a fundamentally good concept. The vision is there. It is the implementation that is needed. Many dismiss it as political slogan spinning. Well, wether it is 1Malaysia or Malaysian Malaysia, it is all a slogan until we see something happening on the ground. Nothing can happen if we don't embrace that concept and work towards it. Many sit and wait for the effects of 1Malaysia to come knocking on their doors. Unfortunately it doesn't work that way. If you want to see it happen, you have to play your part to MAKE it happen. The least we can give is hope. Salam 1Malaysia my dear Malaysians!

Nammavarum vendam, Avargalum vendam, Matram mattum vendum!

2009-08-27T11:58:00.003+08:00

The MIC elections due on the 12th of September appears to have taken a rather ugly twist, at least in the eyes of the media. Several newspapers have mentioned the existence of campaigning along caste lines, with the emergence of an alleged pressure group of supposedly lower castes, calling themselves Nammavar or 'Our People'. This group claims to have the support of hundreds of delegates, and has declared support for Datuk S. Subramaniam, former MIC Deputy President, to regain the post. They then refer to Dato' Seri Samy Vellu's team as Avargal or 'Them'. Ironically, this very group that seems to mobilize support along caste lines, claim they are trying to remove caste politics in the MIC. Their logic is beyond me.

In my relatively short time being associated with the MIC, I can tell you this much. I don't know what is in the minds of the party seniors, many of whom belong to a generation that is well past its sell-by date, but in the minds of the youth, the future leaders, there is no room for caste. Many among us do not even know what caste we belong to, let alone associate others along caste lines. We crave for one thing in the party. Change. We want to see the MIC rise again to be a force to be reckoned with, to be the voice of the Indian community. So to my beloved party seniors, if you can't improve the party, at least know when to stop burying it further!

The Malay Mail, two of its reporters at least, had a field day reporting on caste politics in the MIC. Both these individuals are no strangers to controversial reports and suspect ethics. Unfortunately, we can't blame them alone. MIC politics has given them that room to run us down.

I am not a voting delegate. However many people I know are. I will be there on the 12th, hoping that the results will signal a positive change. If it does not, I fear the MIC may drown beyond rescue. The party president may have given a list of his preferred candidates. I have the utmost respect for him. I understand his reason of wanting people he can work with. Ultimately the decision is in the hands of the delegates. In the race for deputy president, whether they vote the president's choice, his opponent's choice, or a neutral candidate promising genuine change, is up to them, and up to them only. I trust the delegates know the urgency of the situation. If they still do not, than all is lost before it even begins! Believe in Change, Vote for Change!

P.S. The title, in Romanized Tamil, can be translated as 'No to Our People, No to Them, Yes to Change!'

MIC Election Season

2009-08-08T23:16:00.002+08:00

It's election time in the MIC. A time of heightened anxiety and activity, not to mention politicking and campaigning. The nominations for the Youth, Wanita and Puteri wings were concluded successfully this morning. I wish all the contestants the best, and hope you will all maintain a sense of decorum throughout the campaign period. Let us not forget that the MIC is one big family. While we can compete and contest, within the frame of democracy, the unity of the party members must always be of paramount importance.

I shall focus on the youth wing in this post, one that I have the most familiarity with, among the three. T. Mohan, the current youth coordinator is going for the National Youth Chief post. He is being challenged by one SP Muthuveloo, a lawyer. Having known Mohan for some time, and knowing of him even longer, he has my undivided support. Without taking anything away from Mr. Muthuveloo, in my opinion, T. Mohan has done way more than any other youth leader for the community, especially during his stint as the head of the Social Welfare Bureau. He has raised millions for worthy causes, and has touched the lives of thousands who were in dire need of assistance. I sincerely hope the delegates feel the same way, vote for him, and give him a strong mandate to steer the youth wing forward. I am confident he will make an excellent youth leader, perhaps the best in recent times!

The AGM for the Youth, Wanita, Puteri and Putera will be on next Sunday, and we will all know the results then. The excitement however, is only set to increase several notches from then on, as the nominations for the main MIC posts will be on the 22nd. Many leaders have expressed their intentions to go for various posts, so let's wait and see what comes. Whatever it is, exciting times ahead for the MIC.

Pakatan's sudden interest in Maika shares, a ruse

2009-07-31T21:13:00.001+08:00

I'm just wondering after all this years, suddenly everyone in the opposition is ready to take on the Maika shares issues that has been lingering around for 20 over years.

Do I smell a ruse to deviate from the Kg Buah Pala issue? Yes. As more facts are being uncovered on the shady transaction of Kg Buah Pala, the DAP led opposition in Penang needs a diversion.

As usual the Indian MP mandores need to play their part to bury the current Penang government's fault in the Kg Buah Pala issue with a diversion.

Why the diversion, I can give you many reasons. No action was initiated on the fraudulent land transfer; no assistance was rendered to the residents in their fight against the developer when the latter is not even the legal owner of the land.

No state authority had raised the issue on the transfer of the trust land to the state land nor do documents exist to prove it. So what about this rule of law? Close an eye for the poor and defenceless.

Then what about the premium that was paid way after when it should be paid? It does not matter.

How plausible that development plan is approved when it subjected to a premium being paid within time or even without the land having been transferred.

Yes KSK did it, but what did the LGE government do to question all this to safeguard the residents and question the fraudulent transaction or invalidate it.

There are many legal nitty gritty that LGE could have pursued to expose the fraudulent land transfer if he was serious in saving Kg Buah Pala.

The icing on the cake, now since it is public, one lawyer comes out states that "The temporary title document (Borang 11AK), registered with the registrar of land titles and issued on March 27, 2008, contains a clause "Sekatan-sekatan kepentingan", which states:

"Tanah yang diberi milik tidak boleh dipindah milik, cagar, pajak, pajakan kecil atau sebarang bentuk urusniaga"

So, what happened Guan Eng, all your propaganda with your Indian kuncu-kuncu that the state government needs to fork out RM150 million to the developer.

The game is up Guan Eng, we are not so stupid anymore as we have citizen vigilantes to question the fair and just moves rather than playing politics.

The truth is there is no RM150 million to pay, nor was there any real attempt by the present Penang government to actually safeguard the interest of the residents in Kg Buah Pala. It was all an eye wash for the public.

By raising the Maika isues, it is very clear that it is but a camouflage to hide the inherent flaws that is so obvious in the Penang government which is supposed safeguard the interest of the poor and defenceless.

Since when in history have the opposition been interested in the Maika battle that has always been internal. You walk on a thin line in misinterpreting the judgment of the public with your actions.

Don't insult our intelligence and what we can grasp when more truth is exposed on the shaddy deal around Kg Buah Pala and your government's inaction.

Sure, I don't want an Umno-led BN to rule Penang, but expect you to be truthful in your dealing with residents in Kg Buah Pala rather than diverting the attention with your load of hocus pocus.

It is still not too late Guan Eng, do the right thing for the residents and we will respect you for it, for we will appreciate that you stood by them even in your time of despair for political survival.

The above is a letter originally written by Wong Mun Chee, in Malaysiakini.

2009-07-11T15:14:00.002+08:00

Prime Minister YAB Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak marked his 100th day in office with a whole bunch of goodies, aimed at helping Malaysians during this time of economic uncertainties. Thank you Datuk Seri, especially for the 15 million specifically allocated to Indian entrepreneurs. We look forward to more reforms and progress under your Prime Ministership, and I am confident that the BN will shine once again under your stewardship.

A 100-day birthday gift from Najib
Jul 11, 09 1:23pm

Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak today announced 11 populist measures in the bid to win back support from voters after the ruling coalition suffered an unprecedented electoral setback last year.

Speaking before a large crowd at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre this morning, the sixth prime minister marked his 100 days in office by announcing a 20-percent discount for frequent toll users and up to 70 percent reduction for driver's licence fees for motorbikes.

Najib hinted that more new measures would be introduced as these latest announcements were just “a beginning” for his three-month-old government.

The 11 measures are:

1) From Sept 1, motorists who use tolls 80 times or more in one month will enjoy a 20-percent discount.

2) Tenants in the Federal Territory will be given the opportunity to buy their own houses from the 44,000 units offered by the government.

3) Small traders and vendors in the Federal Territory will be given a 50-percent discount for their licence renewal fees. Meanwhile, the government will also allocate RM150 million to Tabung Ekonomi Kumpulan Usaha Niaga (Tekun) and RM15 million to Indian young entrepreneurs.

4) The government will add more taxi permits. As of now, 70,000 individual taxi permits have been offered and 3,000 more permits will be approved in the next three months.

5) The government will take some drastic measures to fight crime and corruption, the details of which will be revealed at the end of this month.

6) The government is also in the midst of overcoming the birth certificates issue in Sabah and Sarawak. Since 2005, Sabah has 36,000 applications and 92 percent of which have been approved. At the same time, Sarawak has 19,000 applications and 80 percent of which have also been approved. The rest will be resolved in the near future.

7) As of June 2009, the government has also resolved 46 percent of 34,000 delayed citizenship applications. The rest of it will be settled at the end of the year.

8) The government will build more roads in Sabah and Sarawak - from 750km to 1,500km - and this will be addressed in the 10th Malaysian Plan.

9) Water and electric supply in Sabah and Sarawak will also be improved, the details of which will be revealed at the end of the month.

10) Driving license fees for motorcyclists will be reduced from the existing RM500-RM700 to RM211.

11) 20,000 family members of hardcore poverty in urban area will be given 10,000 houses under the trust fund, Skim Amanah Saham Wawasan. In addition to this scheme, a new '1Malaysia' trust fund will be set up and is open to Malaysians aged 18 years and above.

Is the Kedah government planning to demolish temples?

2009-07-07T17:13:00.002+08:00

Ever since the internal political trouble between DAP and its partners PKR and PAS started to boil out in the open, several accusations have been traded. We all know the Tamil High Chapparal issue. A conclusion is nowhere in sight, instead we have Lim Guan Eng blaming all and sundry, when it was his DAP party who promised the villagers that their problems would be solved if his party came to power. Well, it is always easy to promise the world when you are not in power. Perhaps he never expected to come to power.

Anyway, another issue is now slowly leaking out. The DAP in Kedah is alleging that the PAS government running the state now, was quietly planning to demolish several temples. The denials came swiftly. But the DAP insisted again.

Today, a rather 'interesting' article appeared in the Star. The article, quoted a 'devotee' giving a statement denying that there are any plans to demolish any temple. Instead he refers to one particular temple, the Devi Sri Karumariamman Temple in Jalan Pegawai, Alor Setar. This 'devotee' further puts the blame on the temple committee for enroaching into private land, and further seems to question why the temple is not following agamic rules pertaining to various devotees in the temple. He also 'assures' others that only the temple hall is at risk of demolition, which he further adds will be carried out by the temple itself. Then we hear that the hall is currently being used as a makeshift temple, as the main temple is under renovation.

This seems like a blatant attempt at public relations, to quickly sweep the problem under the carpet. First, why is this 'devotee' issuing statements? Who is he? Where are the Municipal Council representatives? I note with concern that THEY have not denied there are plans to demolish temples! This 'devotee' seems to have access to notices issued by the authorities. He seems to know details as to whom the land belongs to. Is this devotee another eyewash? Is this similar to the case where a PKR division women leader, also a resident of Kg. Buah Pala, tried to hold a press conference praising the Penang State Government?

Second, where are the temple committee members? If all is well, why did THEY not release a statement that everything is ok? Have they been asked to remain silent while some third party defends the PAS government and issues denials? This entire article stinks of last minute damage control by the PAS government, and their PKR bedfellows. Will the DAP dare expose the minutes of the Municipal Council meetings where the decision to demolish temples were made? I mean, they do claim to be 'Competent, Accountable and Transparent'!

The 'Pakatan Rakyat' is a marriage of convenience. A partnership between three organizations at odds with each other. A coalition glued together by one man, who wants to be prime minister, at any cost! Now, we are slowly seeing the coalition tumble. Many predicted the downfall of the Barisan Nasional after the last GE. Internal conflicts, they claimed. "The BN is imploding" they cried! Well, look who's stuggling to keep their coalition afloat now!

Resign Now Rayer!

2009-06-28T20:22:00.002+08:00

Residents of Penang's High Chapparal, or Kampung Buah Pala, have demanded the resignation of their state representative, RSN Rayer, for his inability to save their village, after promising to do so during the general elections.

It appears Hindraf has finally ended its silence on the matter, with Waythamoorthy issuing a stern statement warning the Penang governent and Pakatan Rakyat as a whole, that it will withdraw its support for them if the village is demolished.

Pakatan Rakyat rose to power with a so-called promise to bring 'justice' to the people. They championed the issues of the day, promising the moon and the sky. Now, when they ARE in power, they are struggling to deliver. I hope they now know that it is always easy to stand and shout. It is actions that count.

I attach below two articles from Malaysiakini on the matter.

Hindraf warns Penang gov't over 'High Chaparral'

Athi Veeranggan | Jun 28, 09 3:26pm

The Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) today called on the Penang Pakatan Rakyat government to end the predicament of some 300 ‘Tamil High Chaparral’ Kampung Buah Pala residents.

Or else the influential movement would withdraw support for the coalition in future electoral battles, warned its London-based leader, P Waythamoorthy.

He urged Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng to heed to the call made by villagers and civil societies to gazette the ‘Tamil High Chaparral’ as a living cultural heritage urban village.

According to Waythamoorthy, the DAP-led state government should not push Indian Malaysians to a corner, like what Barisan Nasional had done all these years.

“Otherwise, Pakatan Rakyat and Penang government would face Hindraf’s wrath in the next election,” he told Malaysiakini today.

Waythamoorthy slammed Lim’s administration of not fulfilling its responsibilities to end the impasse and for its unwillingness to resolve the villagers’ quandary.

He chided the state government for not showing any interest to preserve the last remaining Indian traditional village in Penang.

“It’s a clear attitude of arrogance ... forgetting the plight of the poor and defenceless after winning the general election.

“The DAP-dominated state government has betrayed the people’s trust. It has failed to protect the weak and the marginalised,” said Waythamoorthy.

He said Hindraf could not comprehend the state government’s nonchalant attitude on the issue, especially when the state government had acknowledged existence of possible wrongdoing in the village land deals.

The Penang government has set up an investigating team headed by Deputy Chief Minister 1 Mansor Othman to probe into the land deals.

Waythamoorthy smacked the Pakatan coalition of falsely portraying itself as champions of justice, fairness and equality when the villagers’ unresolved dilemma proved that the Penang government had failed to “walk its talk.”

“What’s happening in Penang is pathetic. The state government has deliberately refused to exercise its executive powers to protect the village as a heritage,” said the self-exiled human rights leader, who plans to return Malaysia by next month.

Land taken over by BN state gov’t

The current residents and their ancestors have lived in Kampung Buah Pala in Bukit Gelugor, for nearly 200 years, which originally was a housing trust under the Housing Trust Act of 1950.

The original owner of the once coconut plantation area, David Brown, had gifted the land to the current villagers' forefathers.

However, after independence, the Barisan Nasional state government took over the village as the land trustee and collected temporary occupational licence (TOL) rents until 2005.

In that year, the land office alienated the land to the state government before it was subsequently sold for some RM3.21 million to a civil servants cooperative society, the Koperasi Pegawai Kanan Kerajaan Pulau Pinang.

The cooperative has subsequently engaged Nusmetro Venture (P) Sdn Bhd to develop a lucrative housing project, the Oasis.

Early this month, the village residents' association lodged a report to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission alleging fraud in the land alienation and transfer carried out by the northeast district land office.

The villagers now face eviction on July 2 after their appeal to annul the land deals and stop the Oasis project was dismissed by the Federal Court.

Waythamoorthy said Hindraf would hold DAP and its allies accountable for their inaction.

He said Hindraf faced difficulties in explaining to the Indian masses on the deliberate inaction of the state government to exercise the powers conferred upon it by National Land Code and Land Acquisition Act.

The Hindraf chief rebuked claims that the Kampung Buah Pala residents were arrogant for not accepting the compensation initially proposed by the developer.

He said the villagers have only asked for the authorities to protect their constitutional rights to live in their ancestral village.

“Is this too much to ask from a state government which portrays itself as a people’s government?” asked Waythamoorthy.

Waythamoorthy’s elder brother, P Uthayakumar, who is legal advisor to Hindraf, paid a visit to the embattled village early this month. (photo)

Villagers vent their anger against DAP rep

Athi Veeranggan | Jun 28, 09 2:50pm

Facing a forced eviction in five days, despaired ‘Tamil High Chaparral’ Kampung Buah Pala residents demanded their elected representative, RSN Rayer, to quit his Seri Delima seat in Penang.

The residents are angry that Rayer had failed to keep his electoral pledge to protect their interests and stop a controversial but lucrative condominium project in Kampung Buah Pala.

“At last year’s general election campaign, Rayer vowed to save our village. Now he is hiding from us ... scared to face us because he had betrayed us,” said the villagers during a protest in front of Rayer’s home in Island Park, Georgetown, last night.

Some 100 villagers, led by Kampung Buah Pala Residents Association chairperson M Sugumaran, expressed their dissatisfaction over Rayer’s lukewarm attitude in the matter.

They also want Rayer to explain on why he failed to inform them about the July 2 writ of possession obtained by the developer.

Indeed, it was Georgetown city OCPD Assistant Commissioner Azam Abdul Hamid who informed the villagers about the writ at a meeting yesterday, which was also attended by the developer’s representatives.

The police chief has warned the villagers not to cause trouble when the developer’s demolition team arrives to flatten the village on Thursday.

“The authorities want us to just sit and watch our homes being destroyed,” lamented Sugumaran.

The villagers claim that Rayer was “hiding” inside his house instead of coming out to face them during their protest which kicked off at about 9pm.

“If this is the attitude of our elected representative, then he should resign and pave way for a by-election. We can elect a better leader,” said the association secretary J Steven.

Villagers lost final court battle

Last Thursday, the villagers lost their final appeal at the Federal Court to overturn last month’s Court of Appeal decision favouring the developer Nusmetro Venture (P) Sdn Bhd and its cooperative landowner, Koperasi Pegawai Kanan Kerajaan Pulau Pinang.

The villagers and their legal team have argued that the land alienation and the subsequent sale to the cooperative by the previous state administration were tainted by fraud.

The three-member Federal Court bench however, dismissed their appeal and ruled that the villagers have no locus standi over the village land - part of a housing trust in which the current residents and their ancestors have occupied for nearly 200 years.

The villagers slammed the judgment as being against natural and social justice.

“If our nation’s judges were to be Brazilian judiciary, the whole Amazon tropical forest would be turned into a concrete jungle within a decade,” said the association assistant secretary C Tharmaraj.

Expect stiff resistance on demolition day

The villagers also criticised the DAP-led Pakatan Rakyat government, a self-proclaimed people's government, of betraying them by washing its hand over the controversial issue.

“We voted for a change in the last polls because we wanted to rectify the wrongdoings done by the previous Barisan Nasional government. But the DAP government has not shown any difference,” said Sugumaran.

“It seems more interested with dollar and cents than the plight of working class like us.”

The villagers lamented that except for the two deputy chief ministers - Mansor Othman and Dr P Ramasamy - the other state executive councillors in the 11-member state cabinet are not interested in helping them.

The villagers want the state government to preserve their village as a human cultural heritage, echoing a call made by two Unesco officials to Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng’s administration early this year.

In the next four days, the villagers consisting of some 65 families from 24 homes will have to evacuate the village - the last remaining Indian traditional urban village in the state - to pave way for the Oasis development project.

Kampung Buah Pala is known among locals as ‘Tamil High Chaparral’ because of its population of cowherds, cattles, goats and Tamil traditional cultural features.

Judging by their mood, it is clear that the villagers would not surrender their homes without a stiff resistance come Thursday.

Penang Indians have been betrayed!

2009-06-27T20:01:00.004+08:00

The Penang High Chapparal, otherwise known as Kampung Buah Pala, the last Indian cultural village in the island of Penang, is set to be demolished. The power to rescue this village from demilition rests with one man. The Chief Minister of Penang. Sadly, it appears he has forsaken the Indians who voted for him almost en bloc.

It must be noted, that while the option to save this village may be at the behest of the Pakatan Government, the problem was created by the former BN government led by Tan Sri Koh Tsu Koon. Let's call a spade a spade. It was the BN government that sold the land at half the price, adding insult to injury, to an UMNO backed consortium. Yes, I dare say they had complete disregard for the Indians living there. But, they have paid for it. They have lost the elections.

What about YB Lim Guan Eng? Didn't you, and your entire Pakatan government, rise to power promising the Indians the sky? Now the Indians don't mean anything to you? It was arrogance that shook the pillars of BN last March, and it is this arrogance that will shake the Indian support for you too, sir.

Deputy Chief Minister II Ramasamy seems completely powerless to solve the matter. So much so, the residents are more interested in asking the newly appointed DCM I to help them. But both DCMs seem to have little say in the DAP dominated State Exco.

How is it that the CM who famously declared that 'his doors are always open' is too busy to even meet the residents?

I'm sure LGE will be more than eager to point out that it was BN's doing to begin with. I accept that. It was. But instead of correcting that mistake, in the interest of the people, the state government ha the cheek to try and make more money out of the Indian resident's misery by simply asking for more money from the developer!

Why the complete silence from Hindraf et al? Did you not rally hard, asking for the Indians to vote Lim Guan Eng and Anwar and DAP and PKR and PAS? Isn't your silence now a betrayal to the Indians in Penang?

Attached below is an article from Malaysiakini, regarding the above.

Villagers pin last hopes on state gov't

Athi Veeranggan | Jun 27, 09 12:17pm

The Penang government seems unwilling to end the predicament of the 'Tamil High Chaparral' Kampung Buah Pala residents in Bukit Gelugor.

If proceedings in yesterday's executive council meeting were anything to go by, the state government is not keen to deliberate on the pressing issue, let alone safeguard and preserve the urban village as an Indian living cultural heritage.

The state executive councillors, except for the two deputy chief ministers, are said to be happy to leave the fate of the villagers in the hands of the demolition team to be hired by the developer.

Only DCM 1 Mansor Othman and DCM 2 Dr P Ramasamy seem interested to help the villagers and save the village from the imminent rampaging demolition team.

Other state executive councillors are learnt to have hardly talked about it.

Indeed, one executive councillor has even chided the villagers as “big heads” for not agreeing to receive a handsome compensation in the first place and vacate their village for good.

On Thursday, the villagers lost their appeal to the Federal Court to overturn last month’s Court of Appeal decision favouring the developer and its cooperative landowner, Koperasi Pegawai Kanan Kerajaan Pulau Pinang.

Round-the-clock high alert

Some 300 Indian Malaysians living in the urban village have pinned their hopes on Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng to save their village from being bulldozed and flattened by the developer – Nusmetro Venture (P) Sdn Bhd.

The villagers are already on a round-the-clock high alert to stop any demolition work and forced eviction.

During the exco meeting, it is learnt that the state government was keen to act on the technical advice from its legal adviser about its constraints, rather than exercising its executive powers to end the impasse.

The villagers are urging Lim to use his executive powers. Legally, the villagers position now is at its best doomed.

The villagers consisting of some 65 families living in 24 houses will have to evacuate the village that they and their ancestors have resided for nearly 200 years.

Kampung Buah Pala is known among locals as 'Tamil High Chaparral' because of its population of cowherds, cattles, goats and Tamil traditional cultural features.

It is the last remaining Indian traditional urban village in the state.

The villagers wanted Lim to exercise his chief ministerial power under Section 76 of the National Land Code to save their village from the developers.

They have also wanted Lim to caveat the land pending a state investigation, headed by Mansor, on the land deals carried out by the previous Barisan Nasional state government.

Villagers asked to explore other means

The villagers, their legal team and civil societies have all along argued that the land alienation and subsequent sales to the cooperative by the previous state administration were botched deals tainted by fraud.

Yesterday evening the area’s elected representative, R Sanisvara Nethaji Rayer, has indicated to the villagers that the state government may have “washed its hands” over the issue.

Rayer’s phone conversations with village residents’ association chairperson M Sugumaran and secretary J Steven were heard by some 20 residents through the mobile loudspeaker.

Steven claimed that according to Rayer, the state government may not want to preserve the village as a heritage.

He said Rayer also wanted the villagers to explore other means, notably a reasonable compensation, to resolve the controversy amicably.

Steven said Rayer had turned down his suggestion to arrange a meeting with Lim.

The Seri Delima assemblyperson has apparently told him that the chief minister may not have the time to meet the villagers.

However, if the villagers were to succeed to arrange an appointment to meet Lim, Rayer informed Steven that he would be willing to attend the meeting.

Acquire land for us, say villagers

Sugumaran said the villagers wanted the state government to use Section 116 of the National Land Code to stop the developer from entering the village to demolish their homes.

The section states that the developer needed a permit from the state authorities to demolish the village.

Secondly, he said the villagers wanted the state government to acquire the land for them.

The land was sold by the BN government to the cooperative for a mere RM3.21 million, a 50 percent discount from its original price of RM6.42 million.

According to Sugumaran, the discounted sale price - estimated at RM11.33 per sq ft - was far below market value.

Umno-linked developer Nusmetro Venture is set to develop the area dubbed the Oasis, consisting four blocks of medium and medium low-cost apartments.

It is learnt that the current state government planned to nullify the price cut and reclaim the discounted sum from the developer.

The villagers argue that if the state government can nullify the cut-rate deal and ask for a refund, why can’t Lim’s administration annul the whole land deal?

“If there is a political will, there is an administrative way to cancel it,” said Sugumaran.

Ban Sisters in Islam?

2009-06-09T02:46:00.002+08:00

I admire Sisters in Islam. They are living proof that there can be moderation within Islamic groups. They are testament of women's rights within Islam.

I do not understand why PAS has called for their ban. Then again, what can you expect from Parti SE-ISLAM Malaysia? Aren't these the very extremist who have threatened racial stability in Malaysia every now and then? Just because they have put on a show in recent times, with 'Non-Muslim Supporters Clubs' and what not, will that change the essence of a group that is built solely on fanaticsm?

DAP? PKR? What say you? Do you support this demand or not? YES? Or NO? Malaysians want to know!

Ref Malaysiakini: Zaid Ibrahim is spot on!

2009-06-01T21:07:00.003+08:00

Former minister and ex-UMNO leader Zaid Ibrahim lashed at Utusan Malaysia for being a racist paper. I cannot agree more. Utusan IS more racist, and more deserving of suspension, than perhaps any other publication in this country. Zaid went on to correct the misconception that non-Malays in this country should be treated as ingrates for demanding for what is constitutionally and rightly theirs.

I feel now, more than ever, that Zaid's exit from BN is a great loss to the coalition. I reproduce below the Malaysiakini article on the story.

Zaid torches Utusan for stoking racial flames

Jun 1, 09 7:00pm

Former Umno leader and minister Zaid Ibrahim has lashed out at Malay daily Utusan Malaysia for playing up racial sentiments.

He said the articles which appeared in the daily's Sunday edition reminded him of how far removed the paper is from the reality of life in Malaysia.

"This is probably the reason why its readership is on the decline. It's theme and main plot is race, race and race," he added in a blog posting.

Zaid cited a particular article with the heading 'Melayu dikhianati?' (Malays betrayed) penned by Awang Selamat.

In the article, the former Umno leader said, the writer lamented that he is hurt by the demands, which reek of racism, of the non-Malays since the last general election.

"In other words, Malaysians must not hurt the feelings of Awang Selamat because when Awang Selamat is hurt, Umno is hurt and when Umno is hurt, the Malays are hurt.

"This is the logic of Awang Selamat," he added.

Zaid said the writer made no mention of the 'extreme' demands made by the non-Malays in his article.

"If they (the non-Malays) are asking about scholarships, land allocation and employment opportunities, can't these questions be addressed rationally and based on facts?

"Why get hurt so easily?" he asked.

Are all their demands baseless?

The former de facto law minister also questioned if all the demands of the non-Malays, whose rights are enshrined under the Federal Constitution, were baseless?

According to Awang Selamat, he said, this appears to be the case because "50 years ago Umno and the Malays were generous enough to offer citizenship to their (non-Malays) ancestors."

"Since Umno had been gracious in according them citizenship, their descendants should never make any demands because they must always be grateful to Umno," he added.

Zaid pointed out that this is the exact mindset which is no longer viable and has been rejected by all races.

When a citizen, be it a Malay, Chinese or Indian, asks for something, he said it is the duty of the government and the media to evaluate it in order to grant the request.

"If the demand is excessive, explain but don't raise history to cover up shortcomings. Do not get angry always, threaten and dish out pieces of incomplete history for political mileage," he said.

Zaid also reminded that the country obtained independence because the British agreed with the alliance on the terms. "When we agree, we must honour the agreement," he said.

In view of this, he said there was no reason to state that "we were being generous in granting citizenship to the Chinese and Indians."

"The fact is, that is the term we agreed to. At the time, it was impossible for the British to relinquish Malaya if the issue of citizenship for Chinese and Indians was not resolved.

"The British were strict on this issue and Umno agreed. That is the price which the Alliance accepted with an open heart. Does Utusanhave different historical facts?" he added.

Zaid said even if one went by the perception that Umno was generous in giving citizenship to non-Malays, there is still no room for Awang Selamat's 'feudalist mindset' in a modern nation.

Those with 'blind hearts'

Meanwhile, he said another article by senior writer Zulkiflee Bakar had advised Utusan readers not to be 'historically blind'.

"I suppose Malays like myself are historically blind. But history is not difficult to learn and I am interested in knowing more.

"However, the most unfortunate people are those whose hearts are blind. When our hearts are blind, no amount of facts or knowledge can fill the void," he added.

Zaid said instead of stoking racial sentiments, Utusan should help the prime minister find ways to develop the economy via pragmatic and just policies.

"To Utusan, the Malays fail because of the Chinese and Indians. Wake up Utusan, non-Malays and Malays themselves can tell the difference between the Malay race and Umno, they know that when an Umno policy is criticised, it is not challenging the Malays but Umno.

"Much effort is being put into creating friction between the Malays and Chinese. Believe me, racial flames will not burn as brightly as before," he said.

"The Malay mindset has changed. They know the challenges that lie ahead in the world and the changes which they must make. OnlyUtusan has not realised this," he added.

It has been awhile!

2009-05-14T17:52:00.003+08:00

Sorry for the rather long absence. Work has been a little hectic of late, with me spending a considerable amount of time outstation, with poor internet access. I hope to get back to my regular blogging pace from now onwards.

So many things have happened in the last weeks, and enough has already been said about those events, so I shall not add to that which is already stale. Frankly, I'm beginning to get bored with some of the political mess in this country. I can only imagine what the man on the street is feeling, with all this politicking, while the country is in serious need of stewarding as it hits the waves of a global financial meltdown.

Well, I shall not rant too much for now. Back with a proper article soon.

Let's give Najib a chance

2009-04-06T14:48:00.002+08:00

Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, Malaysia's newly appointed Prime Minister, is certainly doing the right things, if his first 48 hours in office is anything to go by. His order to release 13 ISA detainees, including 2 from Hindraf is most welcome. More comforting is his promise to re-evaluate the entire ISA. I sincerely hope the ISA will be repealed, and all detainees either released, or charged in court.

Najib's 'walkabout' session in Petaling Street, Kampung Kerinchi and Brickfields, areas entrenched in Chinese, Malay and Indian stereotypes respectively, is also a good move. It portrays a PM willing to 'turun padang', willing to get the views of the man in the street.

It is without doubt that Najib's rise to the highest office in the country is somewhat marred with scandals linking him to a murder trial, and corruption. He has repeatedly gone to great extent to deny any involvement. It must be noted that there is no credible evidence linking him to the alleged crimes. Just rumours. But then, in politics, especially Malaysian politics, rumours tend to have more weight than the truth.

Najib is further dogged by a certain anti-BN sentiment present among some Malaysians. No doubt fanned by Anwar Ibrahim, some Malaysians, perhaps more prevalent among non-Malays, adopt the attitude that the BN can do no right, and the PR can do no wrong. Everything is blamed on the BN. Even slips by the PR are attributed to the BN, reality cast aside! Let's not be emotional about politics. Be rational. Both BN and PR have their fair share of flaws. People keep asking what the BN has done for 50 years. Come on! Look around. Don't tell me you don't see any progress achieved for the last fifty years. Did all this progress not come under a BN government?

Najib certainly seems to be on the right direction. I look forward to a more efficient cabinet, to more just policies and to equal treatment of all Malaysians under his One Malaysia tagline. Let us Malaysians give our Prime Minister a chance. I think he deserves our cooperation. Everyone is entitled to their political affiliations. But let us not live by these affiliations. We must close ranks and unite in order to face the problems affecting our nation, and the more global financial crisis. If Najib and the BN still fail to live up to your expectations come the next elections, vote as you please. For now, let us support Najib and offer him a chance. It is the least we can do.

I also appeal to the voters of Bukit Gantang, Bukit Selambau and Batang Ai. In the last General Elections, Malaysian voters have given us at BN a reality check. You have voiced out. And you know what? We hear you! Barisan Nasional IS taking the efforts to correct our mistakes. The very chairman of BN has accepted responsibility and resigned. We have a new BN chairman and PM. We WILL continue to make the changes you ask of us. In the meantime, show us that YOU recognize these steps. Give BN the support and encouragement to continue in this new, brave direction of One Malaysia for all Malaysians. Vote Barisan Nasional.

Malaysiakini TV : Kalaivanar exposes Anwar's bluff!

2009-04-03T00:43:00.003+08:00

I have always maintained that Anwar Ibrahim is nothing but a master manipulator. A great drama actor who tells everyone what they want to hear, but will stop at nothing to get what he wants. He rode the waves of 'Makkal Sakthi' like he was a brother to all Indians, then dumped them right after the GE '08.

Kalaivanar tells all about the real Anwar. Fine, some may say he is just upset about not being picked to contest Bukit Selambau. Fair enough. But that doesn't change the facts he put forward in the video. Watch it!

See former PKR Jerai Division Chief Kalaivanar's revelation here.

More at Dr. Punithan's Indians Malaysia blog.

More rhetoric, or a new dawn in the horizon?

2009-03-31T16:18:00.003+08:00

After the recently concluded UMNO elections, UMNO president and incoming prime minister Datuk Seri Najib pledged that he will make the necessary changes to the NEP to bring it back to its original objectives, eradicating poverty among Malaysians. A few days later, UMNO deputy president and potentially the next deputy prime minister, Datuk Seri Muhyiddin has vowed to end economic discrimination against ethnic Chinese and Indian Malaysians.

This is definitely a step forward, and is more than welcome. However, let this result in some serious action, and not fizzle down as mere rhetoric meant to bolster support for the tri-elections. I urge the MIC leadership (and the MCA, Gerakan etc) to work closely with Najib and Muhyiddin with regards to this liberalization of the NEP and to ensure that there is a sense of equality for all Malaysians.

I personally feel Najib has had people trying to undermine him even before he takes over the country's reins. There have been many allegations. Some with so much 'supporting facts' that they are very believeable indeed. However, fact is, absolutely nothing has been proven to date. Allegations remain as allegations. Rumours remain as rumours. What is certain is, there will be a leadership change. That too, in a period of global economic uncertainty. Let's at least give him a chance. A clean slate.

Muhyiddin brings a fresh set of ideas and a new perspective. His clean image is also something welcome. He has vowed to be a good deputy to Najib. Let us give this tag team the chance they deserve.

Tri-elections

2009-03-29T16:45:00.002+08:00

Nominations have closed successfully for the tri-elections in Bukit Selambau, Batang Ai and Bukit Gantang. It is undeniable that the Barisan Nasional is facing an uphill battle in all three constituencies. The MIC is the chosen BN component party to contest the Bukit Selambau seat, where a record 15 candidates have filed their nominations, 13 of them independents. The seat, which was previously held by an independent-turned-PKR assemblyman, obviously has led many to think they fare good chances as an independent. Of course, it must be noted that in the previous elections, the PKR candidate has his nomination disqualified, resulting in the then independent candidate benefitting tremendously from the 'tsunami'.

The PKR led state government has declared that only if their candidate wins, will he be appointed state exco. Meaning, if an independent wins, they will not appoint him/her to an exco post should the person pledge support and/or join PKR. Well, that is one way of ensuring support for their candidate, though it remains to be seen if they will keep to this condition. One news source actually quoted the Kedah Menteri Besar actually threatening to dissolve the entire state assembly should BN win the election. PAS leaders do have a tendency of releasing somewhat ridiculous statements every now and then, so let's not read too much into that. At least he didn't say men and women have to vote in separate centres. :)

The MIC candidate for Bukit Selambau, is confident that he will be able to pull off an upset. The decision by PKR to nominate a rookie, who seems to be unliked by his own party members, is of course, in favour of the BN candidate. It remains to be seen how the independents will act as spoilers. The Chinese voters are said to be solidly behind PKR. The Malays, split 50-50. the Indian votes seem tough to call, with somewhat softening, yet still present underlying resentment for BN and unhapiness over PKR's choice of candidate cancelling each other out. The presence of Malay and Chinese independents will also deflect ethnic votes somewhat.

Well, I guess we will have an interesting week or so until the elections. Let's wait and see. All the best to the BN candidates in all three elections.

JPA, Don't rob deserving students of scholarships!

2009-03-22T21:52:00.005+08:00

Year after year, once the SPM and STPM results are out, there is one problem that never fails to crop up. JPA or PSD scholarships. Nobody seems to know for sure how these prized scholarships are dished out. What we DO know, for a fact, is that year in, year out, deserving students with sterling examination results are left out. It is of course, no surprise that most of these students are non-Malays, a fairly large portion of them Indians. Below is a press release on behalf of Putera MIC on this matter.

PRESS RELEASE

The recent announcement by PSD Director General Tan Sri Ismail Adam is something that has caused a lot of uneasiness among 2008 SPM students and their respective parents. This issue is very close to the heart of the people and much thought should be given before a decision is reached. The previous year, when there was a public outcry when students with flying results were denied scholarships, the honorable Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi diffused the situation by announcing that any student who achieved 9 straight A1s would be allocated scholarships. This intervention by the prime minister was timely and very well received by the rakyat.

Tan Sri Adam has categorically stated that not all straight As students will be eligible for scholarships. This is definitely a step backward for the country's education system and overall aim of increasing and enhancing the human resource capability of the nation. Those who are have worked hard and attained excellence should be rewarded and no less then the Prime Minister has agreed to this. Putera MIC strongly objects to the PSD Director General's statement which implies this practice will be stopped. We strongly urge Tan Sri Adam to carefully rethink the decision and make a decision that is in the best interest of the students and their futures.

When the Prime Minister made the decision last year there was overwhelming support for it. Has the Prime Minister agreed to the new decision? How come he didn’t state that the scholarships were only for the year it was announced and not for the future too? What has changed so drastically that such a well received decision has to be reversed? The people are watching this issue very closely and they need to be reassured that the government has the interests of the people at heart when making a decision. Students should be confident that when they study hard and do well, the government will reward their efforts and this will encourage them to work harder.

Another point we would like to raise is the fact that by Tan Sri Adam’s own calculation there are 2000 overseas scholarships and there are 1676 student with straight A1s. This being the scenario shouldn’t all those who got straight A1s be entitled to scholarships. Even if all those who got straight A1s were given scholarships, there would be about 300 and more available for others. As for those who got straight As the local 10 000 scholarships will be available to them.

As a country striving to become more competitive and first-world in all ways, educational policies are of paramount importance. Taking this into consideration we urge all those involved to re-think their decision and do what is best for the students and the country. The people await a positive decision, for them and not against them.

Guidance for SPM and STPM Leavers

2009-03-12T15:38:00.003+08:00

Putera MIC has launched our annual SPM and STPM Hotline. We have been doing this program for several years now, refining it every year. SPM and STPM leavers can contact the Putera MIC Hotline via sms and email. Within 24 hours, they will receive a list of courses that they can apply for in government universities based on their results. Students with other queries with regards to their education path can also contact the hotline for advice.

SMS to 012 - 6711 634

email SPM@puteramic.net or STPM@puteramic.net

Also, the MIC, via the Yayasan Pemulihan Sosial, YPS, is organizing nationwide Career and Shcolarship Guidance Seminars called 'Vetripadigal'. This initiative headed by Datuk S.K. Devamany, is to help guide students apply for courses relevant and suitable for their qualification by providing comprehensive information on courses, institutions, fees, etc.

The Selangor and KL Seminar is on Saturday, 14th March, 8am to 1pm, Kompleks Perdana Siswa, Universiti Malaya.

Utter disgrace to the sanctity of parliament!

2009-02-26T23:55:00.004+08:00

Yesterday's mob incident against YB Karpal Singh was a disgrace. It was an insult to the very system of parliamentary democracy. A complete disregard to the sanctity of parliament.

Yes, I am an MIC person. A BN person. Yet, I am ashamed that some of my BN counterpart could stoop to such low levels. When I first read what happened in Malayskini, I just couldn't believe what I was reading! What were they thinking?!?

It doesn't help the least that some quarters are reporting that parliament security did absolutely nothing to stop the mob, and protect an MP. Where is the protection? Where is the security?

Even if Karpal was wrong in accusing UMNO Youth for the bullet incident, he is protected by parliamentary immunity. This is not the way to deal with the issue! For goodness sake, does it really take 22 grown men to 'demand an apology' from a man on a wheelchair?

Sigh, I am disgusted! With people like this in our midst, no matter what good some of us in the BN try to do, it will all just go down the political drain.

Anjing keling? Yet again!!!

2009-02-20T15:00:00.003+08:00

Malaysiakini reports that a student in Selayang has lodged a police report after his teacher physically and verbally abused him. In his police report filed at the Selayang Baru police station last night, A Kuganeshwaran, a form two student at SMK Darul Ehsan, said: "The teacher called me 'anjing' (dog) and 'keling'." The teacher had apparently also punched him.

This is not the first time. This won't be the last, either. Dato' Seri Hishamuddin, I, we, DEMAND that you take severe action. No more transferring the teacher. If the alleged incident took place as reported, SACK the teacher.

The police should investigate this incident thoroughly. If the act was committed, CHARGE the teacher in court.

The Malaysiakini article is below.

'Anjing, keling': Student files report

Syed Jaymal Zahiid Feb 20, 09 2:19pm

A school is where the seeds of racial unity are supposed to be sowed but there have been cases suggesting otherwise, with the guilty party being none other than the teachers themselves.

Now a new allegation has surfaced from a school in Selayang Baru, where a 14-year-old student claims that he was physically assaulted and verbally abused by a teacher.

In his police report filed at the Selayang Baru police station last night, A Kuganeshwaran, a form two student at SMK Darul Ehsan, said: "The teacher called me 'anjing' (dog) and 'keling'."

He also claimed that the teacher had punched him on the back and arm.

According to Kuganeshwaran, the incident happened during the living skills lesson yesterday.

"There was an announcement made on the class speaker so I stood up to listen to it. My teacher told me to sit but I told him that I wanted to listen to the announcement.

"The teacher then took a wooden stick and approached me. He looked like he wanted to hit me. I pleaded with him not to hit me. Then he placed the stick on the table and punched me," read the report.

The student subsequently informed the headmistress, discipline teacher and class teacher regarding the incident.Kuganeshwaran also stated in his report that his class teacher had pleaded with him not to relate this incident to his parents.

Father sees red

His father K Anchutan, who accompanied his son to file the police report, told Malaysiakini that he was 'very angry' over the incident.

The 38-year-old security guard said a school is a place where children are supposed to be safe from harm.

"I send my kids to school so that they can get the best education and be successful. I did not put them in school to be racially abused and hit by teachers," he added.

Contacted later, SMK Darul Ehsan headmistress Siti Aishah Ismail said a meeting will be convened to discuss the matter today.

"We will investigate first. We want to get all the details and we will speak to the parents as well. We wish to conclude this matter as soon as possible, possibly by next week," she added.

Siti Aishah said once the school completes its investigation, it will submit the findings to the district education department and Education Ministry.

Last July, a teacher from SMK Telok Panglima Garang in Kuala Langat was transferred after she uttered racial slurs and derogatory remarks at several Indian students.

The 35-year-old history teacher had on two occasions called Indian students in a Form Four and Form Five class 'black monkeys', 'negroes' and 'keling pariah'.

Hypocrites Aplenty!

2009-02-20T13:02:00.002+08:00

Oh what a week it has been. From Elizabeth Wong to the Perak impasse, Bukit Selambau to Khalid Ibrahim's Lexus.

First, Elizabeth Wong. I think what happened to her was a cheap attempt to smear her. Nothing more, nothing less. It is very disturbing that a woman's reputation, career and peace of mind can be brought crumbling down in such a despicable act. She was a good assemblyperson. She did her job well. She fought hard for human rights issues. She did not deserve this.

But at the same time, Pakatan Rakyat's Standard Operating Procedures needs a little updating. Stop pointing fingers at Barisan Nasional all the time. Her photos was allegedly taken by her ex-boyfriend. He was PKR, not BN. Everytime something happens, it is always "BN this, BN that"! "BN paid him, BN bought that assemblyman, BN threatened him"! What, Anwar? Are ALL your people for sale, or just MOST of them? Oh, and a friendly reminder to Eli... next time please don't wear your specs when you sleep.

The Perak impasse. Well, what can I say? The honourable thing to do would be to go back to the people. It would not be the best for Barisan, but sometimes, honour is more important than power. I rather lose with honour then win without. Now we have a bunch of court cases, suspensions, police reports, talk of emergency. All this at a time when there are bigger issues that need attention.

Bukit Selambau. Ah... another one. MIC did this, MIC this that, BN did this, BN did that. Kidnapping, threats, blah blah blah. Everyone must have missed the report in Malaysiakini that clearly stated V. Arumugam was in the bad books of the Hindraf / Makkal Sakthi boys. The Malaysiakini report clearly stated that is was THEM who wanted him out. But of course, Arumugam was probably following his exit instructions when he made a report insinuating that it was BN that threatened him. Please lah...

Oh, and speaking of Bukit Selambau, we had some UMNO heroes demanding that the seat be contested by UMNO. Apparently MIC has lost the Indian votes. You know what, maybe we have! In the last elections, we obviously lost our Indian voter base. Denying that is stupidity. But hey, we in the MIC have been telling you for donkey years that the Indians are left behind. We demanded so many things. But you wouldn't listen. Our only mistake, we did it behind closed doors, within the BN structure. That made many Indians think we did nothing, and only guys who go out shouting in the the streets were doing something. Well, I don't blame them. How would they know? So now you want the seats? Because we lost the last time? What about all the times we won there? What about the 1999 elections when UMNO performed poorly, but the other BN component parties stood firmly beside you in support? What about all the seats UMNO lost in the last election? Can we redesignate them to other parties since you lost? Think before you talk lah Datuk Mukhriz! Don't shoot us to score brownie points for your UMNO elections!

Finally, there was the cow issue, now the Lexus issue. Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim is suing Dato Seri Khir Toyo claiming defamation, but now MACC says there is enough evidence to charge the former. Apparently he used government money to sponsor cattle for his KL constituency. Apparently he used government money to maintain his personal Lexus. Let the courts decide. But the irony is, we get all these people coming and saying "Oh, this is only small money. So and so took billions, you know!" Right, and you saw him take billions? Or you just read it in some blog, and decided it is the gospel truth? And a small bribe is ok? A few hundred thousand is forgivable? Corruption is corruption! Period. If there is evidence that ANYONE misused government funds, charge them! BN or PR, doesn't matter. Don't be hypocrites.

Temple should consider withdrawing police reports.

2009-02-07T16:55:00.003+08:00

I refer to the Malaysiakini report 'Temple urged to withdraw police reports' which quotes Shahbandar Shah Alam MIC branch chairman K P Samy asking the Batu Caves temple committee to withdraw the police report lodged by the temple against the 'protesters' who were at the temple grounds preceeding the Nov 25th rally in 2007. Seventy people were subsequently charged in court for illegal assembly and damage to public property.

I fully support this move, and urge the temple committee to strongly consider withdrawing the reports, in conjunction with the Thaipusam festival tomorrow. Let us put our differences behind and move forward as one. I am eager to see the charges against the 70 dropped.

I sincerely hope MIC leaders will take this call by KP Samy seriously and persuade the temple committee to withdraw the reports, and see that the AG drops the charges.

You jump, I jump, remember?

2009-02-05T02:44:00.004+08:00

I get up,

And nothing gets me down.

You got it tough.

I've seen the toughest around.

And I know,

Baby, just how you feel.

Youve got to roll with the punches to get to whats real

Oh cant you see me standing here,

Ive got my back against the record machine

I aint the worst that you've seen.

Oh cant you see what I mean?

Might as well jump, jump!

Might as well jump.

Go ahead, jump, jump!

Go ahead, jump.

Aaa-ohh hey you!

How said that?

Baby how you been ?

You say you dont know, you wont know

Until we begin.

Well cant you see me standing here,

I've got my back against the record machine

I aint the worst that you've seen.

Oh cant you see what I mean?

Might as well jump, jump!

Go ahead, jump.

Might as well jump, jump!

Go ahead, jump.

Might as well jump, jump!

Go ahead, jump.

Get it and jump, jump!

Go ahead, jump.

That's a song by Van Halen. It could very well describe the political situation in Perak right now. Let's get one thing straight. I do not condone elected representatives hopping parties. That is an outright betrayal of the voters who put them in power. Voters in Malaysia vote parties, not personalities. It is despicable to betray the trust of the people in such a cheap fashion.

That said, there is a plethora of condemnation against the representatives in Perak who jumped ship. Rightly so. But what puzzles me most, where were all these people when Anwar Ibrahim openly courted BN MPs? What, you think there was no money involved then? Where were all these people when the Bota ADUN jumped ship to PR, albeit for ten days? So that was okay? Why all the fuss now when the PR reps jump to BN? A bunch of hypocrites, I tell you!

I'm upset that BN is trying to wrest control of Perak in this manner. I risk being against BN policy, but I'm saying it anyway. This is NOT RIGHT!

I hope and pray that the Sultan calls for a fresh election. Let's win the right way. I know Anwar Ibrahim started this entire 'kataking' culture. I know the BN has beat him in his own game and made him eat his words. But this is not the way I would like to see the BN get in power. Let's have a brand new state elections, and let the people decide. Either way.

Daulat Tuanku.

P.S. I'm in Bangladesh yet again, with real poor Internet access, so please forgive me if I cannot update this blog as frequently as I'd like to.

Police Report against 'Pendekar'

2009-01-31T13:58:00.002+08:00

Earlier today morning, I made a police report against the 'Pendekar Tanah Air' blog at the Petaling Jaya police headquarters, accompanied by Putera MIC National Coordinator Mr. P. Kamalanathan. Following the report, I was asked to provide my statement to the police.

I notice that the offensive blog has been removed, however the damage is done. Such behaviour cannot, and should not be tolerated. Let this be a reminder to all, that Putera MIC will not sit by and allow such insults to be heaped on the Indian community!

Below is the text of the police report.

TEKS LAPORAN POLIS

Saya, Premnath a/l Agamutu, K/P 800412-14-xxxx, pada hari ini, 31 Januari 2009, ingin melaporkan kewujudan sebuah laman web berbentuk blog, bertajuk ‘Pendekar Tanahair’, di alamat web http://pendekartanahair.blogspot.com yand dikendalikan oleh orang yang menggunakan nama samaran ‘Pendekar Ramlee’.

Laman blog ini menghina kaum India di Malaysia, dengan kata-kata kesat dan menyakitkan. Ia mengandungi pelbagai tuduhan dan maklumat yang salah mengenai rakyat Malaysia yang berketurunan India. Laman ini juga mengandungi unsur-unsur hasutan, bertujuan mewujudkan rasa benci terhadap orang-orang India, sejurus mengancam perpaduan kaum di negara yang berbilang kaum ini.

Berikut adalah beberapa petikan dari laman tersebut yang berunsur hasutan:

1. Tuhan buatkan mereka berkulit hitam sebagai amaran kepada umat kita semua yang orang India ini adalah orang yang tidak baik sama sekali.

2. Mereka adalah orang jahil, seperti binatang buas dan perlu di awasi dan di pukul selalu untuk mengingkatkan mereka supaya berkelakuan baik dan tidak sebagai binatang buas.

3. Orang India jahat, mereka hitam kerana mereka jahat. Terutama sekali orang lelaki india. Harus dihapuskan sama sekali. Lanyak keling!!!

4. Orang India di Malaysia ini adalah bangsa yang paling rendah kalao dibanding dengan orang mereka yang asalnya dari India.

5. Sebab utama ini ialah mereka adalah kasta "pariah" dan diambil oleh orang British sebagai kuli untuk bekerja di ladang getah.

6. Sebab itu mereka harus di lanyak dan di pukul selalu. Ini adalah kerana otak mereka adalah seperti binatang. Mereke tidak faham akan erti budi pekerti dan cuma seperti seekor lembu dan tidak mempunyai pikiran dan emosi sebagai manusia.

7. Saya syorkan semua orang india dipukul sebulan sekali untuk mengajar mereka supaya dapat menjadi manusia yang berguna dan bukan binatang.

8. Kaum yang tak berguna, kuat menipu, merompak dan mencuri.

9. Lepas tue jadi loyar buruk, cakap yang bukan-bukan macam diorang nie macam bumiputra? Siapa kaum keparat nie. Si celaka india nie.

10. Kaki minum, kaki tipu dan kaki putar belit.

11. Lintah darat - ini lah kaum keling kepada orang Melayu di Malaysia nie.

12. Dah lah banyak buat dosa, banyak kes kecurian, rogol dan pembunuhan.

13. Setakat pukul keling nie tak cukup, kena hantam cukup-cukup terutamanya wartawan keling sperti Joe Fernandez yang asyik tulis cerita keling dalam Malaysiakini.

14. Kalo pihak polis tak lanyak keling-keling nie, orang melayu akan bangkit dan lanyak keling celaka nie.

15. Biar aku panggil semua orang kampong ku dan lanyak keling kaparat nie.

Saya mendesak polis menyiasat laman blog ini, mengenalpasti penulis yang berkenaan dan mengambil tindakan yang sepatutnya. Sekian laporan saya.

Pendekar? More like Penghasut!

2009-01-31T01:09:00.004+08:00

I am upset and angry after reading the seditious contents of a blog that serves no purpose other than to incite hatred against the Malaysian Indian community. Apart from calling us all kinds of names, the blog accuses the entire community of being animals. The author also calls for violence against Indians.

I will be lodging a police report against the blog on Saturday, 31st January at 11 am at the Petaling Jaya police headquarters. I know it is not easy for the police to trace the author, let alone take any action against him. However, I feel it is only right that a police report be lodged, and for the police to investigate. If anything, I hope it will at least serve as a deterrent to others who might want to follow the footsteps of this 'Pendekar Ramlee'.

The blog also levels unwarranted criticsm against news portal Malaysiakini, with specific calls for violence against one Joe Fernandez, stated there as a Malaysiakini reporter.

More on this after the report is lodged, stay tuned. Do come to the police station and show support if you can.

In the meantime, I call upon all to flag the blog, so that blogspot will remove the blog from their server.

Rest in peace, Kugan.

2009-01-28T18:29:00.003+08:00

I attended the funeral of police-death victim Kugan Ananthan today afternoon. Earlier, I joined a small crowd that had gathered outside the Universiti Malaya Medical Centre, where Kugan's body had been kept. The funeral procession then proceeded to the USJ police station where Kugan died, for a brief prayer session before heading to the Indian burial ground in Puchong.

The funeral procession was marred by the arrest of several individuals. Three were supposedly arrested for wearing Hindraf t-shirts. A few more were arrested for trying to breach the police barricade of the hospital mortuary. Apparently one of those arrested is a murder suspect. Well, let's wait and see if that's true.

Meanwhile, the police must be appreciated for giving Kugan such a grand send-off. I mean, how often do we have several hundred policemen, some in riot-gear, escorting a funeral procession? They even threw in a helicopter and a whole battalion of traffic policemen. The only thing missing was a gun salute.

A lot has been said and done since the start of this controversy. I welcome the AG's instruction to the police to investigate the case as a murder. I welcome the statement by the IGP and Deputy IGP that the police will investigate the case transparently, without any cover-up. That said, it would help if the police actually DO something instead of just promising. The 11 policemen being investigated for the murder have been given 'desk jobs'. Why no remand? How come the police who are so prompt in arresting people wearing Hindraf t-shirts, did not arrest and remand murder suspects?

A lot of attention has also been focussed on the alleged 'morgue barging' incident. My fellow MIC friends who were there that night say there was no such thing. The video on Malaysiakini shows the door open, not 'locked from the inside by the mob' as claimed. Whatever it is, I feel that the entire attempt to divert the attention to the 'morgue incident' instead of a death in police custody, is lame at best.

Another pathetic thing about this whole episode was the attempt by some politicians to score points. Come one lah, how cheap can you get. Some of them seemed only interested in taking photos and giving press conferences. They even had the cheek to claim that the MIC was not there. In fact, the MIC was the first at the scene from day one. We genuinely helped the family. We didn't go just to take photos. A letter to Malaysiakini by MIC Youth's Secretary explains the story.

Some have twisted the entire episode to make it an 'Indian issue'. Yes, Kugan is Indian. Yes, most deaths in police custody are Indians. But no, this is not an 'Indian issue'. This is a Malaysian issue. Deaths in police custody is a national issue. So let's stop making this a racial problem.

Our Home Minister takes the cake for issuing rubbish statements. His claim that the two BN deputy ministers could be charged for the 'morgue barging' incident is most uncalled-for. Dato' Seri... check your facts first lah, that way you won't end up looking like a fool.

Well, Kugan has been buried. May he rest in peace. But we cannot rest. There must be justice for Kugan. The alleged murderers must be charged in court. The police have to take concrete steps to make sure this doesn't happen again. Until then, this issue is very much alive!

PDRM = Polis Dera Rakyat Malaysia 2

2009-01-21T18:58:00.003+08:00

Just weeks after the Prabakar drama, where an Indian youth was scalded by boiling water during police interrogation, a new case has emerged. This time, the alleged police abuse victim, Kugan Ananthan, is dead. The police version of the story, as reported in Malaysiakini and then other major newspapers, is that he drank some water, threw up, and simply dropped dead. There was a suggestion that Kugan died of an asthma attack.

Photos of the body are making their rounds on the Internet. There are multiple injuries on the body, particularly the back, neck and wrist. I'm no medical expert, but I'm pretty sure those are not the signs of asthma.

There was an outcry after the Prabakar incident. Indian based organizations, political and non-political, the MIC included, demanded action. The police responded with the usual 'we will be transparent, those responsible will be brought to justice' dialog. So far several policemen have been charged. Fair enough.

But it appears that some in the police force still think it is perfectly within their powers to pick up Indian suspects, beat them to a pulp in the name of interrogation, and if they die in the process... Oh well, it's just another dead Indian.

No sir, not this time. We've had just about enough of these deaths in police custody. It simply MUST stop, and stop it WILL! If we have to take to the streets to get justice, we will do it!

Wishing all Hindus a Happy Ponggal

2009-01-14T13:17:00.002+08:00

Here's wishing all Hindus out there a Happy Ponggal. May the harvest festival bring a bounty of happiness and prosperity to all Malaysians.

Putera MIC Selangor will be celebrating the Ponggal festival on Saturday, 17th January at the Sri Subramaniam Alayam, Batu Tiga, Shah Alam (beside Central Sugar Malaysia, just off the Federal Highway) at 10.00 am.

Pots, coal, milk, rice, sugar etc will be provided for those who wish to come celebrate Ponggal with us. Do drop by!

Currently in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

2009-01-11T15:49:00.003+08:00

I am currently in Bangladesh on a work trip, and have little access to the Internet. As such, I will not be able to blog as frequently as I would like to.

Several issues have caught my attention over the last week, including the police response to B. Prabakar's allegations of torchure, the raging war in Sri Lanka and Gaza, the Kuala Terengganu by-elections, etc.

However, one issue that is deeply troubling is the allegation of irregularities in the MIED awarding of AIMST contracts. While it would not be wise for me to comment on this issue, as I do not know the facts of the case, it would suffice to say that AIMST is the jewel of the MIC. Many in the MIC worked hard to see AIMST become a reality. I hope the panel appointed to investigate the allegations do so in a fair and transparent manner. After all the MAIKA allegations, the MIC could seriously do without another scandal, particularly one tainting the success of AIMST.

PDRM = Polis Dera Rakyat Malaysia?

2009-01-02T17:28:00.002+08:00

Recently, Malaysiakini highlighted yet another case of alleged abuse by our police force. This time, the victim, Prabakar, had boiling water poured on him, besides being beaten. Again, it comes as no surprise that the victim is an Indian. No wonder then why so many Indian youth seem to die in our police stations! Enough is enough! Stop treating us like dogs. Even criminals have rights. The police have a duty to investigate and interrogate, but it has to be within the laws of the land. Police abuse cannot be tollerated!

According to Malaysiakini, B Prabakar said he was picked up from his work place at Sri Hartamas on Dec 23 and taken for interrogation at the Brickfields police district headquarters where he was repeatedly beaten, kicked and stepped-on by at least 10 police personnel. His relative, picked up together with him, is still missing, presumably in police custody.

PKR MP S Manikavasagam, who has taken up the case, was present at the Brickfields police station earlier today, where a small crowd had gathered to protest against alleged police brutality. Also present was the mother of Francis Udayappan, whose death in police custody remains unsolved. I attended the protest, together with some MIC Youth representatives.

The issue of police brutality against Indians is something that transcends political boundaries. Whether one is in the MIC or PKR or DAP or Makkal Sakthi or whatever organization, we Indians have to unite against this. I am proud that today's protest showed just that. I heartily congratulate YB Manikavasagam for taking the case up. Everyone who gathered there was warm and corteous towards one another, regardless of MIC or otherwise. We may have our political differences, but we all agreed openly with one another that this is an issue that requires us to unite as Indians, not see each other as the opposition!

Protest in support of SRJK (T) Taman Melawati

2008-12-25T22:14:00.002+08:00

Putera MIC Selangor is joining a protest in solidarity with several NGOs, staff and students of SRJK (T) Taman Melawati, on Sunday, 28th December 2008 at 10 am. The protest, to be held near the school premises, is to object to the actions of a property developer, who is trying to take a portion of the school's land, using dubious methods.

I call upon all caring Malaysians in general, and Indians in particular, to come show your support for the school. Let us gather in a show of unity and strength to save our school.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year.

2008-12-24T12:20:00.002+08:00

Here's wishing all you folks a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, not forgetting Happy Holidays. May you have a blessed holiday season and all the best for the coming year.

Samy Vellu vs. Muthupalaniappan

2008-12-17T16:32:00.002+08:00

Malaysiakini has published an exclusive interview with Datuk Muthupalaniappan, the former MIC vice-president, who has declared his intentions to contest Dato' Seri S. Samy Vellu for the MIC top job. It's still too early to tell how the fight will eventually pan out, what with many other leaders keeping mum about the post they intent to go for. Whatever it is, the Malaysiakini interview is still an interesting read, revealing the views of a man not known to many outside the MIC circles.

Datuk Muthu does have his points on a number of issues. Obviously all is not rosy within the MIC, or we wouldn't have lost so badly in the last elections. Our own members voted against us, that's a fact. The party has responded after the elections, in a rebranding attempt. The genuineness of the rebranding intentions, I have no qualms. But the success of the exercise? Now that's something that leaves ample room for discussion.

Whatever the outcome of the MIC elections, I hope it is the Indian people who win. Challenge is not always a bad thing. Challenge keeps complacency in check.

Kudos to Malaysiakini for bringing Datuk Muthu's thought on his candidacy into the open. I hope they will treat all the candidates with equality, though. I, for one, would like to see all aspiring candidates come out with detail manifestos. Let's hear their hopes and plans for the community and party. May the delegates then vote for substance over rhetoric, voting in capable leaders who can lead the MIC back to its glory. Be they incumbents, or new aspirants.

Sorry for the absence

2008-12-11T17:28:00.003+08:00

I'm back in Malaysia after a hectic overseas trip, with no access to the net. Just arrived this morning, and I'm still jet-lagged. Looks like I've got lots to catch up on.

Oi Tajuddin, siapa keling? - Ref Malaysiakini -

2008-11-28T15:00:00.005+08:00

Member of Parliament for Pasik Salak, Yang Bloody (pun intended) Tajuddin Abdul Rahman, is a bloody (pun intended, again) disgrace to Barisan Nasional. First there was the issue of him calling YB Kulasegaran a bloody b*stard. Then, amidst claims of him using sexual innuendos in parliament, now he is caught on the Handsard using the deragotary term 'keling' against YB Kulasegaran.

Enough is enough. Tajuddin has showed that he lacks even the basic decency expected of a human being, let alone a Yang Berhormat, representing several thousand people in the august Parliament. No, a retraction is NOT enough. Neither is an apology, not that one is forthcoming, anyway.

Tajuddin must be dealt with severly. Malaysian Indians have had just about enough of our elected representatives calling us snakes and kelings. I urge the Prime Minister to suspend Tajuddin for a period of not less than three months, without pay. He should be also asked to do 100 hours community service in Indian charity organizations.

MIC must make sure that nobody, not even our BN counterparts, get away scot free after insulting Indians in such a demeaning manner. I call on my Pemuda and Putera MIC brothers to show that we will not tolerate this nonsense. If we have to organize a protest, let's do it. I'm game. We'll show you, Tajuddin.

Malaysiakini's article regarding the incident is reposted below:

MP reveals Tajuddin's 'sexual innuendos'

S Pathmawathy Nov 27, 08 3:09pm

Vocal government backbencher Tajuddin Abdul Rahman (Umno-Pasir Salak) was today accused of making sexual innuendos in the Dewan Rakyat.

According to Fong Po Kuan (DAP-Batu Gajah), who evoked the Standing Orders against Tajuddin, the BN MP had made the offensive remarks during yesterday's sitting.

Section 36(4) of the Standing Orders prohibits parliamentarians from using offensive language. Fong told the House today that Tajuddin had uttered the words when attempting to interject Mujahid Yusof Rawa's (PAS-Parit Buntar) debate on Teo Nie Cheng's (DAP-Serdang) motion for a RM10 pay cut for Education Minister Hishammuddin Hussein.

She quoted him as saying, "Dia (Mujahid) tak masuk lagi, dah lama tak masuk. Main tepi saja" and "Bila nak keluar lagi air dia?"

The following is exchange between Tajuddin, Deputy Speaker Ronald Kiandee and Mujahid as was published in the Hansard.

Tajuddin: Oh, tak masuk lagi?

Kiandee: Dia tak bagi Yang Berhormat, tak bagi.

Tajuddin: Dia tak masuk lagi? Dah lama tak masuk-masuk. Main tepi saja.

Mujahid: Yang Berhormat Pasir Salak sabarlah.

Tajuddin: Bila nak keluar lagi air dia?

Expressing disappointment with the conduct of parliamentarians, Deputy Speaker Wan Junaidi Jaafar said: "From the information I got from my officers, I am very disappointed by the abusive words of the members of parliament."

"But I have to refer this matter to Deputy Speaker Ronald Kiandee to take further action," he added.

Kiandee had presided over yesterday’s session.

Tajuddin's sexual innuendo remarks were missed in the uproar he had sparked off when he called M Kulasegaran (DAP-Ipoh Barat) “keling”, a derogatory term for Indians.

Following pressure from Pakatan MPs to withdraw his remark, Tajuddin had today reluctantly obliged and made the retraction.

Although Kulasegaran requested Kiandee to take stern action against Tajuddin, the deputy speaker, however, said a retraction was sufficient.

Earlier this month, Tajuddin had escaped punishment for calling Kulasegaran a 'bloody bastard' in the House.

Samy Velu to meet PM over yoga fatwa

2008-11-24T16:43:00.003+08:00

This is a follow up to my earlier post, What next? Fatwa against thosai? Today, Malaysiakini reports that MIC President Dato' Seri S. Samy Vellu is going to take the matter up with the Prime Minister. Frankly, I don't see the Prime Minister intervening in this matter, but bringing the issue up is good, all the same. Our voice must be heard, and our disapproval must be conveyed.

Malaysiakini has also run another story, Bouquets, brickbats for yoga fatwa, which samples public opinion. I am particularly glad that some Muslims are speaking out against the need for a fatwa on this matter, and in general, the need for Muslims to be so strictly regulated in Malaysia.

What next? Fatwa against thosai?

2008-11-23T11:24:00.005+08:00

The National Fatwa Council has issued a fatwa that the ancient Hindu art of Yoga is off limits to Muslims. You can read Malaysiakini's article about it here. I must say that while this fatwa does not come as a surprise to me, I see it as something distasteful in multi-racial Malaysia. Of course, the fatwa is only binding on Muslims. I understand that. But whatever said and done, I am a Hindu. Yoga is part of my thousands-of-years-old tradition. So I am obviously irritated that a part of my tradition is being judged by someone else as being a threat to their religion.

Let's get a few things straight. First, Hinduism is one religion that you can't actually convert, per say, into. Hinduism is a way of life. It is a collection of rites and rituals, based on ancient wisdom and teachings. While you can always learn the religion, start going to temples and call yourself a Hindu convert, there are no rituals in particular to declare one 'a Hindu from this day forth', religiously speaking, that is.

Second, to the best of my knowledge, we Hindus never did any promotion campaign for yoga. We never marketed it to the world, neither do we actually profit from its worldwide popularity and interest these days. The non-Hindus are tho ones who learnt it, saw its health benefits (and market potential) and willingly accepted it as a form of exercise. No doubt, it is quite an industry nowadays, both abroad and right here in Malaysia. Of course it is linked with Hindu practices and worship. That's just the way Hinduism is. Religion and life is inseparable to a Hindu, much like how it is for a Muslim. Our daily routine is intertwined with our religion. To what extent, is a matter of individual choice.

On a lighter note, I'd really like to see what else the fatwa boys will decide to ban after tomboys and yoga. Thosai perhaps? Most Hindu-owned restaurants have altars, you know! And they do a prayer before starting business for the day. Ban murukku perhaps? How about issuing a fatwa banning all Muslims from watching Bollywood movies? Datuk Shah Rukh Khan has played Hindu and Buddhist roles before, you know! After all, to quote the words of the National Fatwa council chairperson Dr Abdul Shukor Husin, "doing one thing could lead to another" and "it will ultimately lead to religious worshiping and chanting which is against Islam".

Syariah Law? No, thank you!

2008-11-19T11:56:00.005+08:00

Recently there have been calls for the common law system and the syariah law system to be merged. This suggestion came from none less than the former Chief Justice, Tun Abdul Hamid. Today we have newspapers quoting one Datuk Ibrahim Lembut, Syariah Court Judge and Syariah Judicial Department director-general, saying “Islam will defend everybody. The impression that merging the two court systems will override the rights of the non-Muslims is wrong. Syariah laws and Islam will think of every religion and race”.

Yeah, right! Tell that to the Hindu mother who lost custody of her child after the Syariah court granted custody to her muslim convert ex-husband, against all international norms for custody. Tell that to the families who had the bodies of their loved ones snatched from them, preventing them from conducting the final rites.

Subjecting non-muslims to syariah law is just wrong. It is against the very core of our rights, and we will oppose it at all cost. I do not wish to enter into a discussion on the practicality, the perceived equality and sense of justice of syariah law. I don't care. I just do not want to be subjected to it, and I ought not to.

The very fact that someone could even suggest something like this annoys me. This is setting a dangerous precedence. I lend support to the civil lawyers who attended talks, where this issue was brought up, who refused to even consider this idea. I lend support to MCA's legal bureau head, Datuk Leong Tang Chong, who shot down the idea. I urge MIC's legal bureau to quickly state their stand as well. We must be bold.

There shall be no compromise on issues such as this. We have compromised too much already. The MIC's preference for closed door solutions to problems is exactly what lead to the believe that we were not doing anything to solve Indian problems. Our perceived cowardice to stand up to UMNO's bulldozing attitude pertaining to matters of multiracial interest lent credibility to our critics. Enough is enough.

Domain Problems

2008-11-18T02:56:00.002+08:00

Update : www.apremnath.com is back online!

Dear readers,

I am having some problems with my www.apremnath.com domain. In the meantime, my blog will still be accessible via www.premnatha.blogspot.com so please bear with me while I get the domain issues sorted out.

Thank you.

Protest against Sri Lankan government attrocities!

2008-11-10T10:16:00.003+08:00

MIC Youth and a coalition of Indian NGOs are organizing a demonstration outside the Sri Lankan High Commission to protest against the Sri Lankan governments attrocities against innocent Tamil civilians in the nation.

I urge all Malaysians, especially Indians, to come out in full force. Let us lend our voices to our brothers and sisters in Sri Lanka who are suffering from these attrocities. Do pass the word around!

The demonstration is scheduled on Friday, 14th November at 2.00 pm.

The High Commission of Sri Lanka is located at:

No.12 Jalan Keranji Dua
Off Jalan Kedondong,
Jalan Ampang Hilir,
55000 Kuala Lumpur.

Obama, President-elect of the USA

2008-11-05T16:52:00.002+08:00

He did it! Barrack Obama's meteoric rise to the highest office of the free world should now give us all the audacity to hope. A landslide victory too! I guess this is testament to how Americans have matured beyond judging someone by the colour of their skin. I can only hope that Malaysians too will be able to rise to that level of maturity.

That's all for now, folks. Do bear with me until I'm back in Malaysia. :)

This blog was featured in RTM's 'Blog' program.

2008-10-30T22:43:00.003+08:00

My previous article, on how Deepavali seems like a forgotten festival, caused this blog to be featured on RTM 1's 'Blog' program on Deepavali eve. Coincidentally, the guest on the show for that day was none other than Putera MIC Coordinator, Mr. P. Kamalanathan. You can see the episode on his blog. Many thanks also to Malaysiakini for publishing the article.

I am currently in Shenzhen, China, for a two week business trip. Due to a heavy schedule and the lack of Internet access, I will not be able to update this blog as often as I would like to. My apologies!

Deepavali, the forgotten festival.

2008-10-24T12:21:00.006+08:00

A few days ago, Malaysiakini published a letter by a teacher, expressing disappointment over the scheduling of meetings one day prior to Deepavali. The teacher points out that the meetings could have easily been planned in a way that they do not clash with the festivities, given the fact that the exam dates are known well in advance. Apart from malaysiakini, popular blogger B. Mahendran also highlighted the letter.

The Malaysian Commission for Multimedia and Communication, or MCMC, is organizing a three day broadband expo called MyBroadband. This grand expo, starts the day after Deepavali.

Would the education ministry or MCMC, or any organization for that matter, contemplate holding an event one day before or after Hari Raya? Chinese New Year? Christmas? Then why the complete ignorance of Deepavali? Do the Malaysian Indians not matter to the Education Ministry or MCMC?

Government bodies aside, even the corporate sector seems to have little regard for Deepavali. Yesterday, my family and I went to Metrojaya in Midvalley to do a little last minute Deepavali shopping. My family has been regularly going to Metrojaya for our shopping needs for several years.

Let me show you a photo I took in Metrojaya yesterday evening.

Nice pretty Christmas trees decorating the retail space at Metrojaya. Nothing wrong with that, except this was done three days BEFORE Deepavali. The only indication, if anything, that they remembered Deepavali was the playing of Tamil songs, probably the one CD in their collection, and the display of miserable 'Happy Deepavali' signs at the entrance. That's it.

Needless to say, my family and I walked out of Metrojaya, and won't be shopping in Metrojaya anytime soon.

Indians need to collectively and boldly show the buying power that we have. We are obviously not a strong buying power, but we definitely ARE a buying power. If all Indians boycott a particular brand or outlet, we CAN teach them a lesson.

Let's boycott all brands and outlets that do not recognize us. If they can start preparing for Christmas even before Deepavali, like we do not exist, let's go elsewhere.

If some companies can spend millions on advertisements for Hari Raya, Chinese New Year and Christmas, but forget Deepavali exists, let's forget them.

If your bank does not take up newspaper space to wish you, does not print angpau packets, does not issue new notes, move your money to another bank that does.

If you fill your car tanks at a station that ignores our festival, lets move to another brand that delights us every year with thoughtful greetings.

Let's show them we matter. Let's show them we mean business. Do pass the word around. Happy Deepavali. May the light of Deepavali shine upon each and every one of us, taking us out of the darkness of ignorance and complacency.

My Home, My PC Program

2008-10-14T23:52:00.004+08:00

This Thursday, the Malaysian Indian Technology and Innovation Bureau or MITIB, will launch a program to increase Personal Computer (PC) ownership among Indian families in particular, and Malaysians at large. MITIB, a non-governmental organization initiated by the MIC, in collaboration with Hewlett Packard (HP), will launch this social responsibility program in conjunction with the Deepavali carnival in KL Sentral. Once launched, PCs from as low as RM999 will be available for sale, with 12 months interest-free installments even.

Putera MIC has worked with MITIB closely since the conception of this 'My Home, My PC' program. We feel that encouraging home PC ownership, especially among middle and lower class Indian families, will allow them to get a stronghold in the information technology arena. We sincerely hope Indians will make use of this opportunity. I congratulate MITIB on this remarkable program.

Here's a snapshot from their website.

Date: Thursday, Oct 16 '08 onwards, (road-shows to other states will be announced soon)

Time: 8.00pm onwards

Venue: KL Sentral Arena (Next to Le Meridien Hotel, Opposite Brickfields)

HP Desktop PC Offer:

Processor	AMD LE1250	Intel Pentium Dual
Memory	512 MB	1 GB
Hard Drive	80 GB HDD	160 GB HDD
Optical Drive	DVD ROM	Super Multi Drive+Lightscribe SATA
Operating System (OS)	Microsoft Vista Starter	Microsoft Vista Basic
Display	17” CRT Monitor with Speaker	17” CRT Monitor with Speaker
Price (RM)	999.00	1,199.00

Option to upgrade to 15” TFT Display, please add (RM)	150.00	150.00

Note: Microsoft vista Starter provides language option i.e. Tamil, Chinese & English to end user

Special purchase programme will also be introduced shortly to further enhance My PC, My Home initiative where PC purchasers will be able to attain financing from selected banks and through credits cards for a 12 months interest free installment payment, as well as being able to purchase via EPF.

As expected, PM to call it quits in March.

2008-10-08T17:14:00.002+08:00

Malaysiakini just broke the news that Prime Minister Dato' Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will not be defending his party post in the coming elections, effectively paving the way for himself to step down as prime minister.

PM not contesting, to quit in March
Oct 8, 08 4:39pm

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has decided not to defend his Umno president post and will quit in March next year when the ruling party meets at its annual general assembly.

Abdullah told leaders of the 13 Barisan Nasional component parties that he would be stepping down as prime minister in five months at the BN supreme council meeting in Putra World Trade Centre this afternoon.

“PM to step down in March, DPM to take over. He won’t stand for Umno election,” a component party leader told Malaysiakini via an SMS message. The meeting is still underway.

It is also learnt that the BN leaders are presently thanking Abdullah for his leadership.

As the prime minister was briefing BN leaders on the power transfer plan, scores of Abdullah’s supporters gathered outside the PWTC building to urge him to stay on.

Armed with banners, the supporters are calling on the embattled premier to continue until 2010 amid speculations that he might be forced to step down earlier.

The banners read: 'Hormati peralihan kuasa, elakan perpecahan lagi' (Respect the transition of power, avoid further rifts) and 'Pak Lah, teruskan perjuangan' (Pak Lah, continue the struggle).

The supporters also chanted 'Hidup Pak Lah' (Long live Pak Lah) and 'Pak Lah presiden, Najib timbalan'. (Pak Lah as president, Najib as deputy).

Shortest-lived prime minister

Should he resigned in March 2009, Abdullah would be the shortest-lived prime minister, serving a total of five years five months.

Third prime minister Hussein Onn, who resigned in 1981 to make way for Dr Mahathir Mohamad ostensibly due to health concerns, served for five years six months.

Abdullah, who took power on Oct 31, 2003 from Mahathir, won a landslide victory in the March 2004 general election only to suffer an unprecedented defeat four years later.

He was initially buoyed by a groundswell of support for his promises of reform after two decades of hardline rule under Mahathir - the country’s longest serving leader.

However, he was quickly seen as weak and ineffective after failing to come to grips with corruption, high crime rates and inefficient bureaucracy which he had vowed to address.

Donate your old books for a good cause

2008-10-08T10:53:00.005+08:00

Many Tamil schools in Malaysia lack one of the most basic education item. Books. Tamil schools, especially partially aided and privately aided schools, often have to stretch their dollars and cents so thin, that they simply cannot afford to stock their libraries, if they have one, that is. Yet, Tamil schools students have time and again proven that they can rise above the odds and compete at par with their government school peers.

Putera MIC wants to give these children a little bit to cheer about. We want to give them encouragement. We want to give them hope to excel. We know that the Indian community can only excel through education. We ask not for money, we ask only for your old, used books, sitting in a box somewhere in your storeroom, collecting dust.

Putera MIC is embarking on a two-month campaign to collect books, to be donated to Tamil school libraries around the country. We call upon kind hearted Malaysians to give us any books, as long as they are still readable and suitable for 7 to 13 year olds. If you have a sizeable amount of books, we'll even come over and pick it up from you. You may donate textbooks, reference books, dictionaries, storybooks, anything. Whatever you can afford to part with.

We have been operating for slightly more than a year, funding our activities from our own pockets mostly. We will continue doing so. We ask not a cent from you. We will fork out what is needed for the logistics of this campaign from our own pockets. But we humbly ask you to donate your books to us. Nothing more.

More details of this campaign is available at http://www.puteramic.net/ including contact details of our members involved in this program. I thank you for all your contributions. You have the power to bring smiles to the faces of these bright children. You have the power to engage actively in helping the community.

Thank you very much.

Update: Book Donation Contact Person

Thanasekaran @ 012 4801989 (Project Director)

Umabaran @ 012 5875215 (Penang),
Saravanan @ 012 3375729 (Johor)
Maheswaran @ 012 4630320 (Kedah),
Rama @ 012 6957150 (Melaka)
Gobi @ 012 4575848 (Perak),
Dr.Thina @ 017 2802767 (Negeri Sembilan)
Parry @ 012 3402749 (Selangor),
Visirajan @ 012 9715502 (KL)

No need to drama lah Mike!

2008-09-30T15:34:00.006+08:00

Yesterday, all three Tamil dailies reported that Kapar MP YB Manikavasagam (PKR) had decided to quit his post as Selangor Deputy PKR Chief, if no serious action is taken against those responsible for demolishing the Sri Maha Kaliamman Temple in Ampang. For a day at least, it seemed as though the newly minted YB was a man worthy of respect.

Today however, Malaysiakini reports that he is not going to quit after all. “Manikavasagam will retain his post as PKR deputy liaison chief for Selangor following the suspension of the person behind the demolition,” his secretary is reported saying in Malaysiakini.

Who are you people taking for a ride lah? First one PKR MP comes out to say the temple was brought down by their own committee. Then another hero, YB Xavier, says it was just a shrine, not a temple. I wonder if he would have said something similar if it was a church. Then the PKR government accepted that it was their fault and apologized. But of course, they conveniently blamed the MPAJ enforcement officers.

Now, Manikavasagam takes the drama one level higher. For God's sake... the officer was suspended for ONE WEEK! That too during the Raya break, which is about a week anyway! When contacted, the officer even said that he had not even received any suspension notice, and is away on Raya holiday. Some punishment this is!

Notice how the menteri besar has been very silent on this issue. He must have a big fat ketupat in his mouth. Indians not important enough for you anymore Tan Sri?

Yesterday, MIC Youth protested outside the Menteri Besar's office. They handed a memo to his political secretary, but still not a word from him. It was heartwarming to see Indians wearing Makkal Sakthi and Hindraf uniforms standing in unity with those from the MIC.

The fact is, the PKR led Selangor government has cheated the Indian community. After winning the majority of the Indian votes in Selangor by championing the demolition of a temple by the previous government, after promising the world to Indians, you have failed to deliver! PKR TIPU MASYARAKAT INDIA!

Selamat Hari Raya & Happy Holidays

2008-09-30T12:54:00.002+08:00

Here's wishing you all Selamat Hari Raya and happy holidays. Do drive safely.

For the next week or so, our entire country will be pretty much shut off. Pos Malaysia announced they will be closed until the 5th. University Malaya is so empty, there are no operators to answer your call, even if you call on a day that's not a public holiday this week. Just about every government department will be locked shut the next one week. Heck, an army could probably invade us in just a day as we shut everything and eat ketupat. That is what you get when one race dominates the entire civil service.

Have fun folks.

Don't cross the line, Thanenthiran!

2008-09-25T12:11:00.005+08:00

Yesterday, Malaysiakini published an article with comments from Hindraf's coordinator RS Thanenthiran. According to Malaysiakini, Thanenthiran was quoted to have said "Samy Vellu should kneel and beg for (forgiveness) for his wrongdoings (against) the community if he is sincere and honest about seeking freedom for our leaders."

Now, this is crossing the line. Mr. Thanenthiran, who are you? What have YOU done for the Indian community? You're just riding on the publicity wave of Hindraf, for which five others are paying a heavy price. Then again, perhaps deep down, you don't really want them released, since their release will relegate you to what you really are, nothing!

The MIC, our president included, may not have done ALL that could be done for the community. Maybe we did not do enough. But anybody who says we have done nothing is ignorant. We have learnt our lesson, and we are trying our best to make ammends. This includes trying our best to get the Hindraf five out, knowing very well that we are not going to get much gratitude for it. In fact, the very five we're trying to get released will probably come out and condemn us more. But that is besides the point. Let's just get them out first. They and their families have suffered enough.

Why can't everyone just do their own share of work, instead of constantly pointing at each other, worrying about intentions, politicking non-stop? Would it hurt the Indian community if two or more parties work for them? Seriously, would it? Look at the Chinese! Learn! When Theresa Kok was arrested, ALL Chinese parties, BN and opposition, fought for her release. They didn't fight with each other. The Ahmad Ismail case, ALL Chinese parties fought for his punishment. They didn't ridicule each others' effort.

It is ironic that the very people who go around claiming that the MIC is irrelevant, are so interested in everything the MIC does. The very people who claim the MIC is no longer the representative of the Indian community, are the first to ask "What is MIC going to do about this?" the moment there is an issue.

You do your work, we do ours, let the people be the judge!

Bah Humbug!

2008-09-24T11:42:00.004+08:00

It would not be far off the truth to say that the catalyst for Indian votes to sway from BN was the breaking of a Hindu temple in Kampung Jawa, Klang. Hindraf was a force to be reckoned with overnight. Anwar Ibrahim and Pakatan Rakyat embraced Hindraf with open arms. Anwar championed the temple issue. The Indians bought it. Our saviour, some thought. Humbug!

So how come, Anwar, how come the Majlis Perbandaran Ampang Jaya, which is now under Pakatan Rakyar control, in the Pakatan Rakyat ruled Selangor, tore down the Sri Maha Kaliamman at No.3 Jalan Baru (Jalan Ulu Langat) Hulu Langat, Kg. Tasek 68000 Ampang, Selangor? Humbug!

I have not read any news on thie demolition in the mainstream media. Malaysiakini covered the Kampung Jawa temple demolition extensively. Why the silence now? Humbug!

Hindraf has posted photos of the destruction on their website. But why the deafening silence? Where are the opposition Indian MPs who once boldly claimed that the MIC is not needed anymore to represent the Indian community since they now hold the louder Indian voice in parliament? Humbug!

I have always maintained that it is only a matter of time before the Indians realize that Anwar Ibrahim and his PR allies have taken the community for a ride. Anwar's sole ambition is to become Prime Minister. He will promise the world to all who will listen. To the Indians, he already has. Now his promises are showing cracks. Humbug!

Photos taken from www.hindraf.org

The Day After

2008-09-17T15:11:00.002+08:00

September 16 came and went by, all the drama fizzling out to nothing. Today, we have some new developments though. I just got a Malaysiakini sms update that the Prime Minister and his deputy have swapped their Finance and Defense portfolios. They went on to reaffirm their respective commitments to the 2010 handover plan, with the Prime Minister saying he may quit earlier, depending on Dato' Seri Najib's performance. I guess this is a step forward for the BN leadership, with clear signs than the baton is being passed.

In the meantime, Tan Sri Muhyiddin has come out strongly against Anwar, accusing the latter of using his name to pinch MPs. This should put to rest speculation that Muhyiddin was about to lead a bunch of Umno MPs across to PR.

So what now for Anwar? Except hardcore PR supporters who insist Anwar still can overthrow the government, if not today, tomorrow, if not tomorrow, the day after, if not... (insert your preferred timeline here), the rest of the people out are beginning to show signs of being sick with all this political uncertainty.

Anwar can go on extending his self set dateline to come to power, but in my opinion, he has probably a week to show Malaysians some action for all his rhetoric, or he will be dismissed as a piper who took the whole country for a stroll. Time will tell.

Hats off to you, Dr. Subra

2008-09-15T03:34:00.002+08:00

I read with pride and renewed hope, the statement by Datuk Dr. S. Subramaniam, Human Resources Minister and MIC Secretary General, on the ISA arrests. Malaysiakini reported the statement as 'Another minister questions ISA dragnet', which I repost below for your convenience.

Finally, a senior MIC politician has come out strongly against something that is an insult to the laws of our country. I agree wholeheartedly with the learned doctor's view that every time the ISA is used, it only leads to perception that the government has something up its sleeve, and is trying to subdue someone, over and beyond recognized democratic means.

I also support one hundred percent, his call to Anwar to stop putting the entire nation on the line in his bid to grab power. Enough already! The people have given you a mandate to rule in five states. Show them what you can do by working for the people! Prove yourself! All this talk about defections and what not, only serves to destabilize the nation. Every time Anwar opens his mouth, the stock market plunges! Investors are moving their money out in record numbers! For the sake of the country and all Malaysians, let's stop all the politicking. It has been 150 days since the elections. Let's get own with business. Please don't risk the nation to satisfy your greed for power!

Another minister questions ISA dragnet

Sep 14, 08 5:42pm

Every time someone is arrested under the Internal Security Act, it gives rise to a perception that the government is unable to charge and convict the person under existing laws, said Human Resources Minister Dr S Subramaniam.

"Do we need such a false perception?" asked the MIC secretary-general in a statement today.

Subramaniam said as a government sensitive to the feelings of the people, it cannot be blind to the fact that a significant proportion of the rakyat abhor the ISA and would prefer it not be used.

"We have adequate laws in the country to deal with all forms of errant, irresponsible, and dangerous behaviour. Why not use them?

"The prospect of a person being detained without a chance of being heard and to defend himself is against the grains of present day popular belief," he added.

On Friday, the police detained controversial blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, DAP MP Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily journalist Tan Hoon Cheng under the security law which provides for detention without trial.

Tan, who penned the report regarding the derogatory remarks made by Umno leader Ahmad Ismail regarding the Chinese community, was released yesterday afternoon.

Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar subsequently said that she was arrested in order to ensure her "personal safety".

Situation causing anxiety

Meanwhile, Subramaniam said the present political situation in the country has caused a lot of anxiety and worry for the people irrespective of race.

"There is an urgent need for everyone irrespective of political backgrounds and ideologies to be acutely aware of the situation and behave responsibly.

"Freedom has to be used responsibly, in order to achieve its full potential. Unbridled freedom in the hands of the irresponsible can lead to anarchy and lead to the demise of the very institution of productive freedom," he said.

"Bloggers like Raja Petra must realise that they cannot use the pathways of freedom available in the cyberworld to insight, provoke and humiliate others without the risk of punitive action being taken against them. Blogging has to become responsible," he added.

Likewise, he said, politicians like Ahmad Ismail should realise that the campaign platforms of a by-election cannot be used to question the rights of any group which has been enshrined in the federal constitution.

"The children of the migrants of yesteryears have done no sin for their fundamental rights to be so questioned and they be decreed to the level of second-class citizens.

"We would have expected that after 50 years of independence we would have overgrown such suspicions and be capable of acting with a greater degree of maturity," he added.

'Anwar's obsession'

Subramaniam also ticked off Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim for trying to "pawn" the entire nation to satisfy his obsession of wanting to become the prime minister.

"The people are fed up of all his antics to destabilise the democratically-elected government by unlawful and questionable means.

"Although there is very little chance of him succeeding in his attempts but the effects of these actions on the daily lives of the people and the economy of the country cannot be denied. He and his supporters should stop such antics immediately," he added.

On the contrary, the minister suggested that opposition alliance Pakatan Rakyat concentrate on administering the states under their control whilst allowing the BN to continue with the task of running the federal government and the states under it’s control.

"He (Anwar) should wait for the next general election to decide whether he could be the prime minister of the country," said Subramaniam.

Anwar, who returned to Parliament after a 10-year absence, has promised to launch a political coup with defections from the ruling coalition.

Shooting the messengers!

2008-09-13T11:04:00.002+08:00

Malaysiakini was the first to break the story of Raja Petra's arrest yesterday afternoon. I received Malaysiakini's sms alert just minutes after RPK was arrested. His arrest was not entirely unexpected, but nevertheless it is still a shame. But the real shock came last night, first when news broke that the Sin Chew journalist who reported the Ahmad Ismail story was arrested, then later when Theresa Kok was arrested, all under the draconian, merciless and unjust Internal Security Act, ISA.

First things first. I believe that the use of ISA, against ANYONE, is unwarranted. I view the ISA, which allows for detention without trial, as nothing short of an insult to our courts and the justice system. Surely, if someone is a threat to national security, we have existing laws to deal with them. Charge them in court! The entire ISA should be repealed! It's a draconian law that is open to abuse, and its continued use is a step backward for a democracy.

Second, ISA or not, the fact that the messengers are being shot, with the real perpetrators let off with a slap on the wrist is simply too bitter to swallow. The Sin Chew journalist, in particular, was simply doing her job. Unless it is brought to light that she actually did twist facts to intentionally create racial disharmony, which I seriously doubt, then she was merely doing her job. Reporting what an UMNO leader said in his ceramah. It is Ahmad Ismail who should be sitting locked up now, not the journalist.

RPK, now that's a whole different chapter. It's a given fact that the guy writes the most sensational stories, true or otherwise. He has already been charged for sedition. So why the need to lock him up now without trial? Why can't the powers than be simply let the law take its due course? What good is unblocking access to his site (which shouldn't have been blocked to begin with), then arresting him under the ISA the next day? I think the government BADLY needs some new Public Relations advisors!

Theresa Kok on the other hand, well I must admit, I'm not too familiar with the background of the case against her. There wasn't much in the news. Nothing concrete anyway. The issue seemed more like some political mudslinging between her and Khir Toyo, then suddenly it resulted in her arrest. I know it has something to do with azans and Khir Toyo accusing her of asking for mosques to press the mute button. The mosque itself has come out and denied it, she has denied it, so why arrest her now? Even if she did make such a call, while it may be considered by some as rather disrespectful, is it a direct threat to national security?

Enough is enough. The powers that be seem to have lost all bearings. Instead of correcting the mistakes that drove BN supporters away, it seems they are intent on keeping them away, and drive out whatever remaining support we enjoy!

An Evening with Dr. Abdul Kalam

2008-09-02T10:43:00.002+08:00

Salam Merdeka! Hope you all enjoyed the long weekend.

Last Friday, Putera MIC leaders including myself were priviledged to attend a talk by the distinguished, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, former President of the Republic of India. The event was organized by the Honourable Society for the Lincoln's Inn Alumni of Malaysia in partnership with the Faculty of Law, University of Malaya.

It was not his speech that was impressive. It was the man. The aura, the enigma. Putera MIC was particularly honoured at being able to present him a small token of our admiration of this great man.

I reproduce here, a small message to youth from Dr. Abdul Kalam, taken from his website, part of which he shared with us during the talk.

Knowledge makes you great

While I am with you, I would like to talk about knowledge.

Knowledge has four components, creativity, righteousness, courage and indomitable spirit. That the combination of these characteristics can generate enlightened citizens.

Let us look at the first component Creativity:

“Learning gives creativity
Creativity leads to thinking
Thinking provides knowledge
Knowledge makes you great”

The next component of knowledge is Righteousness. The power of Righteousness is described in a divine hymn, which is as follows:

"Where there is righteousness in the heart
There is beauty in the character.
When there is beauty in the character,
There is harmony in the home.
When there is harmony in the home.
There is order in the nation.
When there is order in the nation,
There is peace in the world."

The third component is Courage, which is defined as follows:

"Courage to think different,
Courage to invent,
Courage to travel into an unexplored path,
Courage to discover the impossible,
Courage to combat the problems a

And Succeed, are the unique qualities of the youth. As a youth of my nation, I will work and work with courage to achieve success in all the missions."

The fourth component is Indomitable Spirit.

I would like to recall a great clarion call of indomitable spirit, which was given by Sir C V Raman, at the age of 82. The message is still reverberating in my mind:

“I would like to tell the young men and women before me not to lose hope and courage. Success can only come to you by courageous devotion to the task lying in front of you. I can assert without fear of contradiction that the quality of the Indian mind is equal to the quality of any Teutonic, Nordic or Anglo-Saxon mind. What we lack is perhaps courage, what we lack is perhaps driving force, which takes one anywhere. We have, I think, developed an inferiority complex. I think what is needed in India today is the destruction of that defeatist spirit. We need a spirit of victory, a spirit that will carry us to our rightful place under the sun, a spirit, which will recognize that we, as inheritors of a proud civilization, are entitled to a rightful place on this planet. If that indomitable spirit were to arise, nothing can hold us from achieving our rightful destiny."

Hence friends, now you realize, knowledge is equal to the equation:

Knowledge = Creativity + Righteousness+ Courage+ Indomitable spirit.

Congrats Anwar, now deliver your promises!

2008-08-27T16:25:00.003+08:00

The people of Permatang Pauh have spoken. As expected, Anwar Ibrahim retained the seat that was vacated by his wife. All well and good. Congratulations, YB. Now perhaps you will get to work instead of repeating rhetoric after rhetoric. I am still waiting to see the countless promises made to the Indian community by Anwar before the GE materialize. It is going to be six months since the elections. PR has control of five states. Where are the goodies you promised the Indians?

It is interesting that Hindraf, which was the catalyst for the switch to PR by indian voters themselves seem to be questioning the sincerity of Anwar's PR in delivering the promises made to the Indian community. The call by Waythamoorthy to PR states to endorse their 18 point demand seems to have fallen on deaf years. I'm not surprised. I expected this.

Now the Hindraf leaders seem to be mudslinging each other in public. Hindraf is not even a year old, mind you, and we already have cracks. So much for championing the unity of Indians, when the top six people can't be united!

Of late, I notice some unsavoury comments made in my chatbox. The very tone of the comments suggest that it is by some intellectually challenged individuals incapable of debating issues maturely. Name calling and swearing only reflects your upbringing. This is a typical case of people who think they can say whatever they want online, but in reality, are cowards. It wouldn't take me long to disable the chatbox, but I am not going to do it, for now at least. Criticism is fine, but be decent. Be constructive. Don't make fools out of yourselves.

Hishamuddin, wake up please!

2008-08-14T18:10:00.003+08:00

Today, Malaysiakini has published yet another article on the 'racist teacher issue'. This time we have the Coalition of Indian NGOs secretary speaking out. The Malaysiakini article is attached below for reference.

It has been a full 24 hours since Dato Seri' Samy Vellu's statement was published calling on the Education Minister to take sterner action against the teacher concerned. But nothing so far. Why? Is this really that small a matter? Are Malaysian Indians that insignificant?

More disturbing is news that racial abuse cases are now surfacing in a school in Taman Klang Jaya. Apparently five police reports have been lodged, but no action so far. All the more reason why stern and swift action must be taken. Now!

Where are the MIC's partners in the Barisan Nasional coalition? Why is there such a deafening silence from our 'brothers' in the coalition? This is seen as an 'Indian' issue. That is very wrong. This is a national issue. The very notion that our education system is supposed to fortify unity among the various fabric of multiracial Malaysian society is now in question.

Minister's silence on 'racist' teacher irks Indian NGOs

Aug 14, 08 5:28pm

Education Minister Hishammuddin Hussein's continued silence on the case of a teacher who fired a volley of racial insults at her Indian students has irked the Coalition of Malaysian Indian NGOs.

In a statement, coalition secretary Gunaraj George said the teacher, who has since been transferred from SMK Telok Panglima Garang, had not only bullied the students but also sullied the entire Indian community with her verbal tirade.

"Given this, shouldn't the education minister say something about the entire episode which has not only traumatised the students but also deeply hurt the feelings of the Indian community at large?'' he asked.

He said it was also disturbing that the teacher appears to have been rewarded by being sent to a better school which is nearer to her home instead of being severely reprimanded.

"The minister must do what is right by the Indian community by not appearing to close an eye to the teacher's uncalled for behavior,'' he added.

Becoming rampant

The 35-year-old history teacher had on two occasions last month called Indian students in a Form Four and Form Five class ‘black monkeys’, ‘Negroes’ and ‘keling pariah’.

She had also said that Indians came from dogs and prostitutes and that the community's youths did not have testicles and that its women constantly menstruated.

"Isn't this serious enough for the minister to intervene? What else is he waiting for?'' asked Gunaraj.

He said that racism and abuse of Indian students were becoming rampant in certain schools and unless the minister does something about it the situation could get out of hand.

"It has also been brought to our attention that similar abuse is being leveled against students in a primary school in Taman Klang Jaya,'' alleged Gunaraj.

He said the Indian students there are constantly scolded by teachers and told to transfer to other schools.

Gunaraj said that five police reports have been lodged against the teachers to date from November last year.

He also commended the community leaders for speaking out and criticising the government’s inaction, demanding the teacher to be reprimanded accordingly.

'Sack the teacher'

Yesterday, MIC president S Samy Vellu called for severe action to be taken against the teacher, saying that he regarded her transfer as a form of appreciation rather than punishment.

Prior to this, MIC Youth's education bureau also expressed disappointment that the teacher had been let off the hook.

Also expressing displeasure over the 'light' sentence was the Malaysian Indian Business Association (Miba).

Its president P Sivakumar told Malaysiakini that the action taken against the teacher did not match the severity of the offence committed.

"A transfer would not teach her a lesson, it is almost as if she escaped unscathed.

"In fact, she should be sacked and we fail to understand why the ministry is viewing this matter so lightly. The Indian community is unhappy over this," he added.

Sivakumar said a stern action would deter other educators from repeating a similar offence, regardless of race.

Rusnita Abu Hassan, we Indians WILL get you!

2008-08-13T15:11:00.004+08:00

Malaysiakini has featured an article quoting Dato' Seri Samy Vellu urging the Education Ministry to take stern action against the now infamous 'racist teacher'. I reproduce the Malaysiakini article below for reference. In the meantime, my sources tell me Pn. Rusnita Abu Hassan has been tranferred to the smart school SMK Telok Datok, Banting. The students affected have also reiterated that they WILL file a civil suit. Good. Remember... babi balik China, cikgu balik mana?

A little bird also whispered to me that Pn. Rusnita was the recipient of an award for outstanding performance from the Pejabat Pendidikan Daerah Kuala Langat recently. Sigh. Why am I not surprised?

I tried to post a photo of Pn. Rusnita, but it doesn't seem to appear. You can see her smiling mugshot at

http://tamiluyir.blogspot.com/

or at

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_jKakeViZGAs/SJrihS85FGI/AAAAAAAAAK4/-i85VOizs_o/s1600-h/rusnita.JPG

From Malaysiakini:

Samy: Take severe action against 'racist' teacher

Aug 13, 08 1:49pm
MIC has urged the Education Ministry to take severe action against a teacher in Banting who uttered seditious and derogatory words against her Indian students recently.

In a statement today, MIC president S Samy Vellu said the party and the Indian community would not accept the teacher to be let off the hook with "a light sentence."

"It looks as if anyone who calls the Indian community with all sorts of unwanted words will not be punished, but instead sent to a better school," he added.

Samy was referring to the ministry's decision to transfer the 35-year-old history teacher to another school, located closer to her house, and attend counseling.

He questioned the decision by the ministry, saying that he regarded the move to transfer her to a smart school as "a form of appreciation."

Samy Vellu said he would write to Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to express the party's displeasure over the ministry's lack of stern action against the teacher.

"This sort of people (teacher) will give the government of Barisan Nasional a bad name and may reduce the support of the Indian community," he added.

The veteran politician felt that the ministry should be more sensitive to matters of this kind where an entire community was insulted by a teacher who was a government servant.

He said the director-general of the education department must personally look into the case as such incidents could destroy the basic foundation of cooperation in this country.

Apology not good enough

Early this month, two students from SMK Telok Panglima Garang in Kuala Langat filed police reports against the teacher.

They revealed that the teacher had called Indian students 'keling pariah', 'Negro' and 'black monkeys', amongst other derogatory names.

In their reports, the Form Four and Form Five students said the teacher also told students during class that 'Indians came from dogs', Indians are 'children of prostitutes' and the community is 'stupid'.

She also supposedly stated that the community's youths 'do not have testicles', 'always menstruate' and indulge in 'thuggery and theft'.

Yesterday, MIC Youth's education bureau had also called for stiffer action to be taken against the teacher.

"This is an issue which touches on racial sentiments. It does not involve an individual but refers to a large number of Indian students," said bureau chief M Saravanan.

"The teacher’s apology to the students and parents involved is not the best solution and does not diminish the gravity of her action.

"Transferring (to another school) is not a form of punishment or harsh (enough) punishment for a teacher who crossed the boundaries," he added.

Meanwhile, DAP stalwart Lim Kit Siang had called on Education Minister Hishamuddin Hussein to explain why no stern action was taken.

Babi balik China, Cikgu balik mana? (2)

2008-08-12T14:42:00.003+08:00

Malaysiakini today published the stand of Pemuda MIC on the 'racist teacher issue'. However, it appears that 'action' has already been taken. Malaysian-style. Today's NST, in an article aptly titled Racial abuse teacher gets 'a better deal' details the 'action' that has been taken against the teacher. She has been tranferred to a smart-school, which is supposedly a better school than her previous school, located nearer to her home.

How nice! Why stop there? Why not the education department go a step further and give her a promotion? Perhaps make her a headmistress! State Education director Ashah Samah said she had wanted to transfer the person out of the state but had acceded to a request from the teacher to remain in the district. How thoughtful of Pn. Ashah. This shows just how seriously the authorities are treating this case.

Let me ask you Pn. Ashah, would you have been so thoughtful if an Indian teacher had used deragotary terms against Malay students? No. I'm sure you won't. In fact, nevermind the education department. Pemuda Umno would have organized protests outside the school, keris in hand, demanding for blood. But that is not the case here. The teacher only insulted Indians. No big deal, right?

Actually, I don't give two hoots what action the education department takes. We'll deal with them eventually. What about the police? Police reports have been lodged. What is the outcome of the police investigations? When can I expect charges to be filed? I want to see that teacher pay the FULL price of her actions. No, I'm not willing to forgive and forget. Why must Indians always be the ones to forgive and forget. Charge her! Let her rot behind bars. Once she is convicted of a crime, the education department will have to sack her.

If all else fails, I hope we can get the affected students to file civil lawsuits. I will get my lawyer friends to represent them. For free. I hope the students are willing to see this through. I definitely am! Cikgu, you want to know if Indians have testicles? I'll show you.

Babi balik China, Cikgu balik mana?

2008-08-11T11:26:00.002+08:00

First, I apologize for the long absence. I was unwell.

What a week it has been. First there was this extremely capable teacher unnecessarily troubled when some of her ungrateful Indian students lodged police reports against her simply because she uttered some harmless words about their race. To think that the Deputy Education Minister threatened to sack her over such a small matter. Luckily our very own Indian Deputy Minister visited the school, 'solved' the problem by getting them to shake hands, and reduced her punishment to a transfer. Our savior! Long live! While the Malay politicians fight for the Malay cause and the Chinese politicians fight for the Chinese cause, only the Indians fight for all races.

Then we had some towering Malays forced to protest outside the Bar Council office. It was because this irresponsible association of lawyers had the audacity to organize a forum to discuss conversion to Islam. How seditious of them! A forum! Lucky they were stopped within an hour by shouts of "Babi, balik China" and threats to storm the venue. If not, I dread to think what the forum could have achieved. I must thank the police for protecting the protesters and harassing the forum organizers. On an unrelated matter, I wish to duly inform you all that the police water cannons have been sent for repairs, so they are currently unavailable. The police hope to have them back by the 25th of November.

Well, a lot of people have already commented on both the above topics, so as much as I have a lot to say, I'll just let you read between the lines.

Heads you lose, Tails I win!

2008-08-01T14:07:00.004+08:00

Malaysiakini has featured an interesting article written by Mr. S. Murugesan, my fellow brother in the MIC. He has hailed Datuk Seri Wan Azizah as the true hero, the brave woman that held the fort for her beloved husband. I do not disagree. Wan Azizah always struck me as a reluctant politician. A politician who was thrown into the ring out of situation, not choice. She has kept the fort well, indeed.

However, it is the other segment of Mr. Murugesan's article that struck a chord with my view on this by-election saga. Why now? Who not in April as soon as Datuk Seri Anwar was eligible. Why not later, after the sodomy allegation is dealt with, one way or the other? Murugesan summed it perfectly with the term 'heads you lose, tails I win' analogy.

Anwar Ibrahim is as shrewd a politician as they come by. A master manipulator of public sympathy and perception. By announcing his candidacy now, he is seeking the upper hand. If he is charged for sodomy, he will claim that this is just to stop him from coming to power. If he is not charged after all the hoo-haa, the government will be seen as having harassed him without basis. Smart.

The Prime Minister said today that the due process of law will go on. If and when Anwar is charged, I hope the evidence will be concrete, and not leave the public in doubt. The sodomy allegation may be a legal issue. But public perception is a national issue. In politics, perception is stronger than the truth. The government simply cannot afford a botched trial.

The EC has sixty days to have a by-election. Let's see how all the timelines play out.

Sigh... In the meantime, it's going to be more days of politicking ahead. From the time the General Election results were announced in March, it has been non-stop politicking, and as a result, the nation seems to be on autocruise. I wish we can put all the politicking behind us and get to work. BN or PR, they both have governments to run and people to serve!

Anwar makes his move

2008-07-31T15:34:00.002+08:00

First it was speculated that Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim will contest in Bandar Tun Razak, then it was Bandar Baru Kulim. Now, he has finally announced that he will contest in his old seat, Permatang Pauh, which was held by his wife until her resignation today.

Well, looks like it's going to be election fever again soon. The Election Commission has to announce a by-election in the constituency within 60 days.

Stay tuned folks.

UMNO, Please don't betray Barisan Nasional!

2008-07-30T13:13:00.002+08:00

First, I must thank Malaysiakini for including my last post in their 'Malaysiakini in Blogs' section. A quarter of the total visitors to this blog as of now, visited yesterday.

I want to say my piece on the recent PAS-UMNO discussions. Initially, it was reported that the discussions were regarding 'Malay issues'. Then it became 'Malay unity'. Now there seem to be outright political negotiations.

Let's get one thing straight. UMNO is the main party in Barisan Nasional. UMNO is NOT Barisan Nasional. The BN's very backbone is multi-racial representation. BN simply MUST move in the direction of Malaysian unity, not Malay unity. Forming an alliance with PAS in the interest of 'keeping control in the hands of the Malays' is unacceptable.

When 100,000 Indians took to the streets, our hearts were with them. They voiced out on the streets in one day, what the MIC has been fighting for within closed doors for the last 50 years. We could have easily done that. It would not have taken the MIC too long to mobilize 100,000 people on the streets. But we did not. Because we respected the BN spirit. We even tried in futility to defend the BN against those people. We paid dearly for it.

Now some people claim the MIC did nothing at all for the last 50 years. We may have not done enough, but we definitely tried. Unfortunately, we tried within closed doors. We tried within the BN framework. We did not get all that we asked for. Within the give and take spirit of the BN, we did our best. We worked quietly.

After ALL this, after all that the other partners in the BN have sacrificed in the last election, in the name of Barisan Nasional, if UMNO tries to team up with PAS, there will be no bigger act of betrayal to the Barisan Nasional spirit. There will be no greater damper to the quest for Malaysian unity.

There are simply no short cuts to unity. There can only be unity when there is equality. There can only be unity when there is respect. There can only be unity when UMNO does not go out of its way to enforce 'Ketuanan Melayu'!

Indians Fed Up Says Malaysiakini

2008-07-29T16:49:00.004+08:00

Malaysiakini has run an article quoting Hindraf alligned groups stating their frustration at the Pakatan Rakyat run governments. Well, I expected this sooner or later. In fact, I expect more of such statements in the not too distant future. the Anwar Ibrahim led opposition election campaign was quick to make full use of the genuine frustration felt by Indians and being the shrewd manipulator Anwar is, he made the most out of the Indians. But now, after winning unprecedented support from the Indian community, they are left to rot. Of course, opposition supporters would be quick to point out that we have a first Indian Deputy Chief Minister and Speaker, but this is eyewash. The average Indian out there gains nothing. The Indian community has been taken for a ride.

I reproduce here, the article from Malaysiakini...

Indian groups fed up with Pakatan gov'ts

Athi Veeranggan Jul 29, 08 4:12pm

Several Indian civil movements are fed up with the indifferent attitude of Pakatan Rakyat governments.

Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf), Penang Makkal Sakti Welfare Association (Pemaswa) and newly formed Hindu Action Network (Han) want the new Pakatan governments to form state Indian councils led by the menteri besar or chief minister.

The suggested councils will plan and implement beneficial programmes for the Indian community, with short, medium and long term goals.

According to Hindraf national coordinator TS Thanenthiran, the Pakatan governments have failed to fulfill their promises.

He said during the elections, Pakatan used the Hindraf tagline Makkal Sakti but since winning they have not unveiled any policy to benefit the community.

"Pakatan Rakyat ruling parties, be it DAP in Penang, PAS in Kedah and Perak and PKR in Selangor, seemed to have made empty electoral promises to the Indians," he added.

He stressed Hindraf would continue to fight along the movement’s 18-point memorandum submitted to the federal government last year.

Temple demolitions, non-existence of kindergartens in Tamil schools, private and public sector marginalisation and high suicide rates, are some of the issues the memorandum covers.

'Reps betrayed the community'

Meanwhile, Pemaswa president G Asoghan claimed that Indian leaders in the Pakatan government have "betrayed the Indian community’s trust in them" to deliver the goods.

"Until today, the state governments, particularly Indian leaders, are resting on their laurels," he said.

He claimed that more from MIC, PPP and IPF have benefited from the DAP government in Penang than genuine Hindraf supporters.

Han coordinator G Mugunthan (left) criticised Penang’s elected Indian assemblypersons of protecting their chronic self-interests when they rejected a previous DAP proposal for a state council.

Though DAP members were keen for a one-stop council, the DAP Indian assemblypersons rejected it as "it will put undue pressure on them to deliver."

"Now they are freely doing anything according to their whims and fancies," he said, adding that the appointment of an Indian as Penang deputy chief minister has been more "a curse than a blessing" to the community.

"It has only helped some chronic characters from BN."

Hindraf, Han and Pemaswa plan to organise a joint dialogue session with all relevant Pakatan Rakyat heads of state governments over the issue.

Camerons Tea, Anyone?

2008-07-28T13:04:00.004+08:00

The last week has been a very active one. At work, there seems to be so much to do, and never enough time to get things done. Despite having loads of tender related work to do, I had to be out of office for two days, to attend a work-related conference, held for the first time in KL. As soon as that ended, it was off to Cameron Highlands for a workshop held for Pemuda MIC and Putera MIC leaders. I guess balancing work and politics is something that I am going to have to master. It is definitely not easy, as my job requires a lot of travelling.

'Bengkel Anjakan Paradigma Kepimpinan Pemuda MIC' turned out to be an experience to be cherished. The ideas and opinions put forward were truly constructive, and the entire event was conducted professionally. I have attended many a seminar and workshop that are held just for the sake of holding one. But this time, one could sense that the leaders were truly keen to listen to what the other state, bureau and Putera leaders had to say. I left Camerons with two things. First, I made many new friends, friends who are determined to do their part for the community. Second, I found a rejuvenated sense of hope and pride in being a part of the young leaders of the MIC. Hope, because I know that things are really being put in place for Pemuda MIC to bounce back stronger than ever. Pride because I am a part of this dedicated team.

On our way back from Camerons, we stopped at a roadside stall selling fresh farm produce. As some of us were still wearing our MIC uniforms, the stall owner smiled, pointed to the logo on our shirt, and told us "If not for YB Devamani (MIC-BN MP for Cameron Highlands, Deputy Minister) my son would be a drug addict today. He has helped my family so much. I will never forget his help. He helped my son overcome his problem, got him into a college and today my son is an engineer."

It is the small things like this that motivates one to carry on and serve the community in whatever way we can, at a time when just about everyone seems to have forgotten all the things the MIC has done. One can't help feeling a sense of pride when a party leader is spoken about with so much affection by the people who elected him as their representative. YB Devamani, my former teacher, is definitely one of the more spirited leaders in the MIC, and his energy and enthusiasm is not only motivating, it is addictive.

Camerons aside, with my new appointment as the Putera Chief of Selangor, in addition to my National posts, I will be shouldering a fair bit of new responsibilities. It will be a lot of work, but I will definitely give it all that I have. I know I have a good team with me, and together, we will rebuild Putera MIC Selangor and return it to the shining state that it once was. In the meantime, I welcome suggestions from all, on what kind of things they would like to see from Putera MIC Selangor. Talk to me, give me ideas, tell me what you want, and in return, I will work hard for you.

Tabung Sivasakthi

2008-07-22T11:48:00.004+08:00

The MIC Youth's Social and Welfare Bureau, headed by Youth Chief T. Mohan is trying to raise funds for Madam Sivasakthi, who urgently needs a kidney operation. Putera MIC's Social and Welfare Bureau, headed by me, also intends to help our Youth brothers achieve their aim of raising RM 70,000 for the family in three months. While we will be launching a collection drive soon, I would sincerely appreciate if you could all pass the word around. Please bank in your contributions directly, at the account number given below.

Reproduced here is an article in the New Straits Times highlighting the fund collection initative.

MIC fund for kidney patient

KUALA LUMPUR: MIC Youth Social and Welfare Bureau is setting up a fund for kidney patient P. Sivasakthi, 54, to undergo an operation in India.

The Sivasakthi Fund was launched yesterday by wing head, T. Mohan, who wants to collect the RM70,000 for the operation within three months.

The operation is being done in India because of the shorter waiting period there. Sivasakthi's husband N. Jeyapragasam, 57, said he had used his Employees' Provident Fund for his own medical bills, which come up to RM800 a month. The couple need RM3,000 a month for their medical bills.

Their two sons are supporting the couple but with a total income of RM2,400, it is difficult for them to continue doing so.

Those who wish to help can donate through Alliance Bank account number 120880020084551 under the name "Tabung Sivasakthi".

How about a meeting of all Indian wakil rakyat?

2008-07-17T13:33:00.002+08:00

Recently there have been news reports of a meeting between UMNO and PAS leaders, to 'discuss the issues affecting Malays'. Of course, there have been rumours that PAS is being courted to dump Pakatan Rakyat for Barisan Nasional. I really don't see that happening anytime soon, but one can't be too certain in today's political scenario. Anyway, let's just take the meeting at face value. We have Malay interest parties from the ruling coalition and the opposition, meeting to discuss matters pertaining to the race they represent.

Why don't the Indians do the same? Why not Indian MPs and Assemblymen from the MIC, DAP and PKR have a similar roundtable session to discuss issues pertaining to the Indian community? Fine, we may have our difference in political ideologies and what not. But the underlying fact is, each and every Indian elected representative out there was elected based on a promise to help the Indian community. By sitting together, indentifying issues and charting solutions, we will be able to ensure that the interest of the Indian community will be taken care of, no matter who is in power. We will be able to get a guarantee from both BN and the PR that our problems will be dealt with. We will be seen as speaking with one voice. One determined, united voice. Apa kata YB sekalian?

Who won the debate? I say all Malaysians!

2008-07-16T13:35:00.002+08:00

Malaysiakini says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim won the debate. It quotes a readers' survey where 95% of the readers picked Anwar as the winner. I'm not surprised. I've always admired Anwar's oratory skills. He's a captivating speaker and a master at crowd manipulation. But I must say, I was pretty impressed with our Information Minister Datuk Shabery Cheek for being able to handle the situation. I half-expected him to be trashed. He was after all, fighting an uphill battle against the populist sentiment.

What I see from this whole debate is more transparency. For the first time ever, an opposition figurehead, and a government minister faced off, live on television. I think that's a great start. I would certainly like to see more of such debates, on various issues affecting Malaysia and Malaysians. That would keep the BN leaders in check, and the people well informed. Let's go a step further. The opposition should form a shadow cabinet, and on all matters of prime national importance, the shadow minister and the ruling minister should put their views forward, live on tv. That way, Malaysians will certainly stand to win.

Order in the House!

2008-07-11T11:35:00.002+08:00

I think it is about time Barisan Nasional conducts etiquette classes for all our elected representatives. Although not all need such grooming, some certainly do! And among the few who do, one or two seem to go out of their way to prove their lack of decorum.

When will these people understand that it takes just one member of parliament to misbehave for the whole Barisan Nasional to be cast in bad light? Why can't these people get it into their heads that the rakyat are watching what their representatives do and say, in and out of parliament? How can we explain to such people that when your actions have been recorded on camera and uploaded on youtube, no amount of denying and explaining, complete with demonstration, is going to do you any good? Sigh...

Snake this!

2008-07-03T15:31:00.003+08:00

Putera MIC is deeply insulted, saddened and angered by the recent conduct ofBarisan Nasional’s Sungai Rapat assemblywoman, YB Hamidah Osman who used aracial slur against Indians. This act has severely upset the Malaysian Indian community.

All though YB Hamidah Osman has apologized, we believe this act should not be let off with a mere apology. Barisan Nasional must take severe action against her, as a lesson to her, and to others within and outside Barisan Nasional, that such irresponsible behaviour will not be tolerated.

We strongly urge the Perak Barisan Nasional chief Datuk Seri Mohamad Tajol Rosli Ghazali to punish Hamidah Osman with 80 hours of community service with any Indian based NGO or Charity Home in Perak for her unpatriotic behaviour in the august house. We trust this will enable her to get to know the Indian community better.

We also urge all Barisan Nasional leaders, elected representatives and members alike to unite in condemning YB Hamidah’s actions. We must uphold the Barisan Nasional principal of representing all communities equally.

Members of the public can leave their comments at:

http://puteramic.net/2008/07/01/signature/

These online signatures will be handed over to the Chairman of Barisan Nasional Perak on 15th of July 2008.

Transition Amid Testing Times

2008-07-01T10:57:00.002+08:00

The chain of events of the last few days, leading to the resignation of Mr. S.A. Vigneswaran as the chief of MIC Youth, has got many people talking. As always the case during such a situation, there are more rumours and hints of scandals then actually the case.

Whatever said about him, Vicky was instrumental in getting MIC Youth to be what it is today. He may have had his flaws, but his contributions should not be overlooked, and his departure is certainly a loss, one way or another.

The appointment of T. Mohan as the interim coordinator, and S. Murugesan as his deputy, is in my opinion, a silver lining amid the storm. I have had the pleasure of getting to know both these gentlemen, and they both earned my respect from the first day.

I am sure that neither of them wanted to inherit the reins of the Youth movement in such dramatic circumstances. They are simply not the type of people who would clamour for position and glory. But position and responsibility has been thrust upon them, and I know of no better people who can now captain the ship through the storm ahead.

I am confident that MIC youth will rise above the challenges under their leadership, and foresee a whole new chapter of cooperation between Putera MIC and Pemuda MIC.

Brothers Mohan and Muru, to borrow Bro Muru's words, 'Soldier on brothers!'

Fascinating Malaysia

2008-06-30T12:32:00.002+08:00

The last few days have probably seen the most political activity since the March 8th. First the SAPP drama. Followed by Anwar's latest sodomy allegation, and his sensational 'refuge' in the Turkish Embassy. Then we have the MIC Youth sideshow.

Somewhere in between, we have an undeserving wakil rakyat in Perak whose insulting racist statement leaves little doubt that her intellectual capability is somewhere between that of a block of wood and belacan.

I shall not comment on any of the above for now, let's wait and see what gives. I'm staying glued to Malaysiakini. They seem to be the first to break the story.

Rising Cost, Rising Crime.

2008-06-25T10:26:00.004+08:00

Yesterday, I witnessed a snatch theft. I took my car to the workshop, and as I was waiting outside, a customer who had just collected her car, got in, started the car and was probably sorting her stuff when a bike stopped alongside the car. The rider remained on the bike as the pillion rider hopped off, opened the passenger side door, grabbed the woman's bag, hopped back on the bike and they sped off. the entire incident happened so quickly that most people only realized what was happening when the woman screamed. I could not even get a glimpse of the bike's registration plate in time. It was that quick.

The owner of my workshop (near Jalan 222 in Petaling Jaya) informed me later that this was the third time in a week such an incident happened along that road, although the first time one of his customers was affected. So rampant is snatch theft nowadays that just about everyone has been a victim, or at least knows someone who has been a victim.

My mother was the victim of a snatch theft, not once but twice in the span of about a month, right outside our house. Both times, the robbers snatched her jewellery, leaving her scarred and scared of going outside our own home.

I understand that the police cannot stop this crime alone. The public need to be cautious and alert at all times. However, the police do have a larger role to play. They simply have to do more. Increase neighborhood patrols! Install cameras! Perhaps our Rela units can also be re-deployed to neighborhood patrols, reducing their current role in harassing foreign workers, regardless of them being legal or illegal.

100 Days in Power

2008-06-24T10:54:00.002+08:00

The newly elected federal and respective state governments marked their first 100 days in power recently. On one hand, the government of PM Dato Seri' Abdullah has been bogged by questions of defections, internal squabbling, component party problems and most recently, a threat of a no-confidence vote. Well, at least the last one fizzled out to be nothing eventually, for now at least.

On the other hand, many Malaysians were looking eagerly at the Pakatan Rakyat state governments. Quite frankly, in my personal observation, nothing much has changed. A lot was spoken, but few things translated into action. Yes, we have an indian Deputy Chief Minister, an indian State Assembly Speaker, but so what? Has there been any benefit to the indian community so far? How many temples have been allocated land? How many Tamil schools given funds?

Instead, we have our first case of alleged corruption, right here in Selangor. Wow, and it has only been a hundred days! We have pre-election promises quietly shelved in the filing cabinets. Where is the money promised to Selangor residents? Is the free water deal on or off? Has the Kampung Jawa temple been rebuilt? Pakatan Rakyat promised a whole lot of goodies before the elections. Now, when it is time to deliver, all seems quiet.

Yes, I know I will get the usual rebuke that the previous government was also corrupted. I know some will say the indian community didn't get the things mentioned above previously anyway. But THAT is the point. Pakatan Rakyat came to power promising change. What change? Change in the identity of cronies? Change in the bank accounts for corruptions? Talk is cheap.

A Week in Singapore

2008-06-23T13:32:00.003+08:00

Dear friends, I apologize for the ten-day break in updating this blog. I was in Singapore attending the Communicasia 2008 Exhibition. Apart from a terribly hectic schedule, I had little access to the Internet. Now to clear the email backlog. Will post new articles soon. ;)

Price Hikes, Paychecks and Phuket Holidays

2008-06-11T10:53:00.008+08:00

The effects of the oil price hike are starting to burn in. Transport companies are charging more. Bus companies are demanding for an increase in charges. Taxi operators are threatening to hike fares, with some already going against the rules and doing it. An increased transport cost means groceries will cost more. Traders start charging more for goods. Food stalls and restaurants charge higher prices. Just about everything will cost a little bit more.

As usual, we will have statements from leaders warning traders not to increase prices. 'Enforcement teams' will conduct 'spot checks' and 'operasis'. The press usually play along. Officers from the Ministry of Domestic Trade will be photographed checking the prices of onions in pasar malams, inspecting mamak restaurants to check on the price of maggi goreng. "Traders who increase prices unreasonably will be punished" the minister in charge would often be quoted saying. In reality, few people know that these enforcement teams can only check on two things. First, the price of controlled items, i.e. rice, cooking oil, etc. Second, they make sure restaurants properly display the prices. That's all. So the nasi kandar shop next door can actually charge you RM100 for a piece of fried chicked, and nobody can do a damn thing, as long as that green board on the wall, usually above the cash counter displays it correctly. Ayam goreng - RM100. That's all they need to do. No minister and no enforcement team can do a thing about it.

So as transport charges increase and traders jack up grocery prices and restaurants charge us more, one thing remains. Our salaries. Most Malaysians, work for a paycheck at the end of the month. Government servants or corporate employee, from engineers to drivers, teachers to policemen, office boy to executive, the salary we receive every month is used to pay for a house, a car, groceries, bills, children's education etc. Hopefully there's a little left at the end of the month for some savings, and perhaps a treat or two. It's this little extra that's always the first to go. But prices will continue to increase. So what happens? Belts tighten. People look for ways to cut expenses. Others try to increase earning. I read with both interest and concern, when the government gave the nod to government servants to take up part time jobs over the weekend. Well, that's one way to cope with increasing prices, sure, but what about quality of life? What about spending time with families? Is that not important too? As I write this article from Sydney, the Australian way of life really impresses me. Even a driver or security guard here would earn enough to lead a comfortable life. Can we say the same for Malaysians? People having to work two jobs to feed themselves is a sign of severe inflation. It's not a sign of a progressive economy, an Asian tiger knocking on the doors of developed nations, aiming to be one among them. No, we have not 'arrived'. In fact we're going backwards.

The Minister of Tourism was quoted in the press saying that Malaysians should consider holidaying locally and not overseas to cut expenditure. We spend billions abroad she adds. Hello, Datuk Seri, people don't have enough money to eat lah, what holiday you talking about? More often than not, those who could afford overseas holidays before the price hike, will still afford overseas holidays after the price hike. They don't belong in the low income category. It's the urban poor, the lower middle class who are hit hardest by increasing prices, not the jet-setting businessmen and holidaying millionaires.

Speaking of holidays, Datuk Seri Azalina asks that we holiday in Malaysia but she as a Minister qualifies for a paid holiday in any Asean destination! That too, only after her perks as a minster have been 'cut'. Before it was anywhere in the world, mind you, when all along we have been promoting Cuti-cuti Malaysia. I don't know if it's just me, but the Prime Minister announcing the reduction in ministerial perks appears to have angered more than pacified the people. Few people probably even knew before this that we've been paying for our ministers to holiday first class in Paris. Now we're only paying for them to holiday first class in Phuket apparently. What austerity! What a sacrifice!

JPA Scholarships - Same story every year!

2008-06-09T12:54:00.004+08:00

Year in, year out, same old problem. The scholarship dished out by the Public Services Department, PSD or JPA as more commonly known, is much sought after by top-scoring SPM leavers, to pursue their higher education overseas. There is one serious problem though, the chances of a top scoring Indian student getting the scholarship is just about the same as winning a game of roullete. Every year, it's the same story. Applications sent in, rejections sent out, appeals sent in, politicians make noise, JPA throws some bones, everybody forgets and gets on with life, only to replay the whole thing the following year.

To quote Datuk M. Saravanan, Deputy Federal Territories Minister and MIC Information Chief, and fellow blogger, "Do we have to beg, year in, year out? Do they get pleasure in seeing us beg, then throw us the bone?"

Seriously JPA. Get your act sorted out. 90% Bumi, 10% Nonbumi. Then apparently, 55% Bumi, 45% Nonbumi. Can someone please tell me where the quota system for this came from? When even local university intakes are now supposedly on merit, nevermind that it's our own definition of merit (that's material for a whole different post altogether), who came up with the rule that JPA scholarships are based on a quota system?

Well, I'd like to see one of two things. Either we abolish the quota system, and award the scholarship purely on merit, with a well-published evaluation criteria, OR we stick to the quota system, but since we're at it, split the quota to Bumi, Chinese and Indian. Give 250 places a year to Indian students to study overseas. No need to beg anymore!

Fuel price hike... Give the rakyat an alternative.

2008-06-05T09:15:00.005+08:00

I read it first on Malaysiakini yesterday evening. Well, I guess it's stale news by now. It's going to cost more to fill up. RM 2.70 per litre. As usual, there is the usual 'we're still one of the cheapest in the region' disclaimer. Yes, we are. Not forgetting, 'the new price of fuel is still only half compared to developed countries'. Yes, it is. But then again, not all the countries in the region are net fuel exporters, are they? And the developed countries argument, seriously, our public transportation is hardly third world standard, let alone developed country standard.

I know the hike was inevitable, what with the skyrocketting of global oil prices. I understand the need to reduce subsidies. But at the very least, protect the poor. Don't burden them further. A rebate of RM650 translates to getting to fill up at the old rate for 800 litres. I'm very sure the average Malaysian family uses about double that. So we will almost definitely have to spend more for fuel. The urban poor, will be badly hit, and more often than not, it's these people who have to use more fuel, as they stay further from the city to save on house ownership or rental cost.

An increase in fuel price is only the tip of the iceberg. Absolutely everything else will inevitably cost more due to increased transportation costs. Diesel, mind you, is a whole ringgit more now per litre. More for groceries, more for consumables, more for this, more for that. What I really want to see from this, is more effort to cushion things for the rakyat. Improve public transportation, and do it quick. More busses, more trains, extend the LRT network. Improve feeder bus service. Encourage people not to drive to work, and reward them for not doing so.

I stay in Petaling Jaya and work in the city centre. Getting to work, on time, means having to either drive to work, or take the sardine-packed LRT. Busses are out of the question, as it simply takes too long, having to change busses and all. The infrequent service doesn't help either. To take the LRT, ideally, I walk to the main road, take the feeder bus to the LRT station, and take the train. But I have waited up to an hour before for the feeder bus, so that's a no. So instead, I drive to the train station, park my car in a paid parking area, and take the train. While the train service is frequent enough during peak hours, they simply can't cope with the number of people who have to board them. The result, sardine-packed trains and snaking queues.

Since I have to drive to the LRT station anyway, more often than not, I just prefer to drive to work. It costs more, fuel, tolls, parking and what not, but it's easier. It's going to cost even more now, and while I, like other Malaysian, have the option of taking public transportation, it simply isn't convenient enough. That has to change. The government should not force people to take public transportation simply because of cost. I believe the onus is upon them to really make public transportation a viable option, and I, like many Malaysians will WILLINGLY leave the car home.

Perhaps it's also time to make Petronas' books public. I for one, want to know why as an oil exporting nation, I don't seem to see us reap rewards from high oil prices. I'd like to see Petronas profits used more for the benefit of the rakyat. After all, as tax paying rakyat, we own Petronas.

Multi-racial Acceptance is a two-way street.

2008-06-04T10:13:00.000+08:00

The very term 'Racial tolerance' is one that I do not agree with. 'Tolerance' means 'to put up with'. In my view, you only 'put up' with problems or discomforts. I don't see living together in a country with other races as a discomfort or a problem, and I'd hate for others to view living with me or my community in that light.

I would prefer using the term 'multi-racial acceptance'. We accept one another as fellow Malaysian. We live side by side with acceptance of the ways of one another. Or at the very least, that would be the ideal scenario.

That said, reading an article in today's NST disturbed me. Last Monday night, there was a Bharatanatyam performance in Taman Budaya, in Ipoh. Having attended countless bharatanaytam performances, and accompanying my sister to many of her dance performances, I know a thing or two about this art. I definitely know the importance the dancers place to the worship of Lord Nadarajah before beginning their show. It's a very simple pooja, sometimes just a mere offering of flowers, but one deep in meaning and importance.

On Monday's event however, the owners of the venue, the state Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage Department, refused to allow this integral part of the performance. Adding insult to injury, they actually showed their 'tolerance' by 'allowing' the prayer ritual to be done backstage, 'to respect the sensitivities of the audience, who also comprised Chinese and Malays'.

Come on! I have attended thousands of fuctions where a 'doa selamat' is said. Is that any different from this? If I went as far as to claim that the 'doa selamat' does not 'respect the sensitivities' of others, would I not be public enemy No. 1? But no, that is not what I have been brought up to say. Because I, ACCEPT the way of others around me. I for one, believe that God is one, and all religions lead to Him.

Sometimes, one cannot help feeling that even if the majority of Malaysians can rise above the trivialities of race and religion, there will always be the one government employee, stuck in the past, who throws the wrench in the works.

An Introduction

2008-06-04T09:42:00.000+08:00

Greetings.

My name is Premnath Agamutu. I am the National Information Officer of Putera MIC, the newest wing of the Malaysian Indian Congress.

While I have been blogging for some years now, using an assumed name, I feel it is about time I pen my thoughts, be it political, social or just random rants, and sign off with my own name. Perhaps that would increase the credibility of what I say, and force me to be responsible for what I write.

In a sense, this is a new beginning. In another sense, somewhere, a blog expressing the views of a second-class-citizen comes to a close. *wink wink* ;)

Premnath.