Commuters to blame

This news item that appeared in the Star 13 August 2007 caught my eye. Here is the full article.

"Commuters urged to be more prepared for Merdeka

By ELAN PERUMAL

POOR travel planning by commuters resulted in long queues and congestion at Putra LRT stations in KLCC recently.

There was nothing that Rangkaian Pengangkutan Integrasi Deras Sdn Bhd (RapidKL) could do about the situation since there was sudden surge in the number of commuters due to the Pikom PC Fair, said RapidKL rail operations division general manager Azmi Abdul Aziz.

He said the long queues and congestion were caused by commuters dependent on counters and vending machines to obtain tickets.

Azmi said there were not many people who took advantage of the monthly pass, prepaid travel cards and Touch&Go and the situation would not have been as bad if the majority of commuters had avoided obtaining tickets from the counters and vending machines.

According to him, RapidKL had done its best and even increased the counters from one to five and provided attendants offering change for those queuing up at vending machines.

“We feel sorry for the inconvenience caused but we can only improve the situation to a certain level as there were 3,000 commuters flocking the station.

“The situation lasted for six long hours and we had a tough time overcoming the long queues,” he said

He also thanked the commuters who had conducted themselves well as there were no untoward incidents reported at the time.

Azmi advised commuters not to be overly dependent on ticket counters and vending machines if they wished not to be caught in similar situations in the future.

For commuters who used the LRT on a daily basis, he said the monthly pass would be the best option since it was only being sold at RM90 with unlimited usage.

“Others can obtain prepaid tickets and Touch&Go cards from our counters so that they can go into train platforms without having to queue up for tickets.” he said

Azmi hoped that commuters would be more prepared for the upcoming Merdeka Day countdown event on Aug 30 and 31.

“We are expecting more than 100,000 people to commute on the LRT and we will do our best to improve the quality of service and the frequency of the trains,” he said."

The first paragraph itself made my blood boil, "Poor travel planning by commuters resulted in the long queues and congestion at Putra LRT stations recently?"

Were there enough signs to encourage commuters to use prepaid tickets and Touch & Go cards before they use the trains? Haven't the management learnt anything for the past ten odd years? Whenever there is a crowd pulling event near any of the stations, the crowd will be at least ten fold than the usual number. Don't tell me you have not prepared for that kind of numbers. Don't you want those numbers? Aren't those numbers that are keeping you in the black, I hope.

Please give the commuters some respect. We did plan our journey. Didn't we leave our cars and use the public transportation system as urged by all and sundry?

Facing a harsh reality

This letter from a reader was published in the Star 10 August 2007.

I refer to “Foreign workers getting a better deal than locals” (The Star, Aug 9). It appears that the writer is looking at the employment scenario from an idealistic point of view.

This is a world where people have a choice to work where and how they wish, provided they have the basic desire to work, to progress in life, to develop a country’s economy, and to help children achieve their dreams.

People work to give themselves an opportunity to better themselves, to take care of their needs.

Whether local or foreigner, work is work and employers want someone who has the qualification, qualities and desire to work. And it’s the employer’s prerogative who they choose and decide to employ.

Please allow me to elaborate on what happens on the other side of the foreign coin.

Both local and foreign workers enjoy a basic pay (if one refers to salary earned as an enjoyment!) and I can guarantee you that not all foreign workers are guaranteed overtime.

Only common sense will tell you that any visitor/worker who lives in a foreign country needs accommodation and other basic facilities. And we’re not talking about five-star hotel facilities.

Here, basic can mean living in a shoplot premises together with more than 25 others, and queuing to use the one toilet/bathroom with broken doors and slimy floors and walls.

Premises have inadequate ventilation; are infested with cockroaches and rats; without space to hang wet clothes to dry; and food preparation is done on the floor.

Transportation is given in poorly maintained vehicles without air-conditioning; with blackened torn/broken seats and driven by locals who consume stimulants. Cost of rental and utilities are equally divided and deducted from the workers’ salary.

The reason foreigners seem to earn more is mainly because they know how to save more, in order to feed, clothe and educate their loved ones back home.

They can live on plain white rice, vegetable dhall curry and a weekly meat treat. A group of five will contribute RM1 each to buy half a chicken that is cooked and shared by them.

Are the local workers prepared to work under such conditions?

Fees/commissions will always be paid to low income recruitment agents or high-end headhunters, local or foreign. And the recruitment fees are deducted from the workers' salary for six months to one year by the employers. Upon renewal of the yearly work permit, the deduction is repeated.

The cost of yearly medical checkups are also deducted from the salary. They work 365 days, 12 hours a day without overtime. And when they take leave, their salary is deducted.

Are the local workers prepared to work in such conditions for a so-called higher salary?

This is the hidden reality of life among foreign workers. There’s nothing free in life.

P. TULADHAR,
Kuala Lumpur.

I just want to answer the question "Are the local workers prepared to work in such conditions for a so-called higher salary?" Definitely NOT.
I guess we have been blessed with so much that very few are willing to go back to that kind of basics to earn a living. Our forefathers may have done so, and I'm sure those starting a new life elsewhere are willing to do the same. But the locals demand a minimum. And if we are honest enough with ourselves, the foreign workers should also be given a minimum. Not the inhumane treatment they are getting now.
But I doubt humanity is in the minds of the employers. As long as the money comes in with minimal expenses, everyone should be contented.

Positive improvement

The news in the New Sunday Times of 5 August 2007 brought a smile back to me. The article did give some hope to the disabled which one day might even include yours truly. I guess the Air Asia management have a human side after all. I do hope this proactive attitude is not just a flash in the pan but an ongoing paradigm shift of the Malaysian psyche. I just can't help but wonder the reasons behind the sometimes atrocious way Malaysians deal with those less fortunate than themselves. Just look at the way our northern neighbour handles the same situation. Can't we take a leaf out of them?

MAS unions in route appeal

I am upset to say the least after reading the Business Times of 27 July 2007 article on MAS unions appealing to the authorities to postpone the opening up of the lucrative Kuala Lumpur Singapore route.

As a consumer, I would have thought Air Asia request for just two flights daily quite reasonable. The argument that Tiger Airways from Singapore would also have to be given the same rights and consequently diverting business to Changi is neither here nor there.

As if no one realised that Changi is well ahead of its competitors in the regional air hub stakes not through a mollycoddle approach from the higher-ups. But through liberalisation and a forward looking attitude. That comes from their geographical position as well as their commitment to excellence. Just look at how they have jumped on the bandwagon of low cost budget carriers. If we do not support our home grown idea, we'll be left behind, with or without protection, sooner or later.

We need a big dose of local rationalisation. We should not be afraid of competition, but rise up to the challenge. No amount of postponement will help the national carrier if a lackadaisical attitude is prevalent among the work force. The same goes to the departments linked to the industry – tourism, immigration, customs etc. If we want to be number one, everyone must put in their two cents worth into the effort.

Kudos to Air Asia crew

I was pleasantly surprised that my flight on AK880 to Bangkok from Kuala Lumpur on 25^th July 2007 threw up another side of Air Asia after the countless brickbats hurled against them. I'm glad that some of the air crew attached to Air Asia went beyond their usual scope of work. I guess it was just a part of their job to help a passenger feel as comfortable as she can.

A lady was complaining of being uncomfortable about half an hour before we landed in Bangkok. Most probably it was brought on by the air pressure sickness syndrome. But nevertheless the air crew did their utmost best to find a remedy for the lady despite the limited resources on board. I think she did not suffer from the usual air pressure malady but the condition was worsened by some other complications. Her past medical history perhaps since I heard the stewardess asking when was the last time she took her medication. I could see the desperate look of helplessness on the passenger's face as she put herself entirely into the stewardesses hands.

But all went well, and a two thumbs up must be given to the four crew members that day. All the best to Air Asia.

Silence

This letter from a reader appeared in the Star of 18 July 2007.

'Pampered wheelchair service by Thai AirAsia

I REFER to the report “Protest held against AirAsia” (The Star, July 16).

I recently flew AirAsia from Penang to Bangkok to Phuket returning via the same route with my elderly parents.

I want your public to know that AirAsia has two completely different levels of service with regard to the chargeable request for wheelchair assistance.

In Malaysia, served by AirAsia, assistance is purely the provision of a wheelchair for passenger use. No further assistance is offered for the princely sum of RM12.

Getting to/from the aircraft is entirely on your own. Not too clever if the disabled person is travelling alone.

In Thailand, served by Thai AirAsia, provision of assistance is one Thai AirAsia person accompanying the passenger throughout, including entrance/exit via diplomatic immigration gates, use of airport lifts, priority boarding and transportation to/from aircraft in Thai AirAsia van.

On boarding, we got seats second row from entrance, so walking was minimum.

The only snag was having to climb up/down the steps because AirAsia cannot afford Skybridges.

The Thai AirAsia person then accompanied us to the taxi and ensured the driver was fully aware where we had to go. All for the princely sum of 120 Thai baht, which coincidentally equates to RM12.

If one has to pay for this sort of service, how much do you think that level of service is worth?

If this sort of discrimination exists in Europe, AirAsia would be the subject of the EU Court of Human Rights investigation.

Perhaps it’s the Thai nature of respect for the elderly and disabled that standards differ so drastically.

I think in Malaysia these people are often despised simply for what they are.

Let us all accept that we all will grow old for sure, and I hope that AirAsia executives reading this will have the pleasure of exactly the same treatment on airlines when their time is up.

K. YEOH,

Essex, England.'

It has been nearly a week since this letter was published. No wonder I go up north as often as I can. Malaysians just do not have it, well some Malaysians anyway. That extra bit of helping others who are less fortunate than us. Business is business of course, but does that preclude a bit of humanity?

Malaysian Muslims not ready for religious dialogue

KUALA LUMPUR (June 21, 2007): The majority of Muslims in the country are not ready for open dialogue on religious issues, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Mohd Nazri Abdul Aziz said.

"Our intention is to have dialogues. However, religious issues are something sensitive. Dialogues need (the communication) of both sides.

"If the majority of Malaysian Muslims do not want to take part (in dialogues), we can't do anything more. So we can only continue (with) our efforts without inciting any sensitive feelings by holding closed-door dialogues," he said in reply to Chow Kon Yeow (DAP-Tanjong) in the Dewan Rakyat (Parliament) today.

Nazri also took Chow to task for accusing the prime minister of double standards on inter-religious and cultural dialogue by saying one thing in the international arena and taking a different stand at home.

"In foreign countries, the premier does not have (decisive) power. He can only propose something. And the matter of sensitivity does not arise abroad, so he is free to say anything as it will not offend anyone.

"At home, although he has power, there is religious sensitivity (that should be taken care of). In our history, there was racial clash. Therefore, we have to be extra cautious," he said.

"Accusing the premier as having double standards is not only incorrect, but also unfair and disrespectful to the head of the government. This question was intentionally asked by the Opposition to fish votes."

Earlier, Nazri said the premier and other cabinet ministers had meetings to discuss issues concerning Malaysians who have different religious and cultural background from time to time.

"We hold closed-door dialogues. Having debates openly in newspapers is not the choice for the government. The closed-door dialogues do not mean that they are less efficient than open dialogues."

On a supplementary question from Baharum Mohamad (BN-Sekijang) who said he was "offended" by Chow's question, Nazri said many other Malay Muslims out there shared the same feeling.

"I hope the opposition will be careful in raising questions like this. We practise democracy so we allowed this question. Next time, you must be careful," he said to cheers from some backbenchers.

That whole article came from the web edition of the sun dated 21 June 2007. Other comments can be read from Mr Chow's and Marina Mahathir's rantingsbymm blogs.

When will this 'not ready' policy end? Till kingdom come I guess if the present hold on to power. The silent majority must speak up, or else our fate will forever be dictated by these enlightened members of parliament...

Rapidkl where art thou

Let us wait and see whether SPNB will reply to this letter to the editor which appeared in the Star of 4th June 2007.


'We pay the fare, we expect to arrive on time
On May 29,passengers on the LRT Kelana Jaya line had to wait about 30 minutes in the train just because of an uncertain reason. Yes, we understand that if the management didn’t take any safety measures it might end up with a disaster. A problem will not be a problem if it only appears once in a while, but there had been too many ‘breakdowns’, too many delays and too many letters telling us, we are sorry. I don’t want any letters anymore. I don’t want to know your problems. I don’t want to know the solutions. I pay the fee and I want to use the train without hassle, and without getting to the office late. I hope SPNB will understand that inefficiency in the system will cause a lot of problems, especially to the working population. And if SPNB fails to cater for 16% of the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor population (as per October, 2006) how would it manage to cater for 40% more?
E-DAN RAWA Kuala Lumpur'


Will this be just another letter to the editor that is thrown into the rubbish can? I have a feeling that is the fate of countless other letters and calls to SPNB on the subject of the frequent delays and breakdowns of their trains.
Does the management even have an iota of interest in the long suffering commuter?

Air Asia Express boarding

I saw for the first time how this system works when I took a flight from the LCCT on Saturday, 2nd June 2007. For the aged, infirmed and those with young children, it is a good idea to fork out the extra ringgit to get into the queue. Air Asia seems heartless when introducing this system. The usual group of elderly citizens and those with young children are now at the mercy of the unruly mob at the normal queue.
As a letter to the editor in one of the local dailies suggested, it might be a good idea to have this group as the second priority after the express boarding group. Profits is one thing and making money out of every conceivable opportunity is another matter altogether. The human face of Air Asia should also be taken into consideration. Surely, the management does not want the 'Now everyone can fly' to be changed to 'Now only those with money and the fit can fly'.

Here we go again

I guess by now I sound like a broken record. Ad infinitum complaining about the public transport system in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. I had the pleasure of savouring the excellent, efficient and highly dependable light rail transport system managed by Rapid KL this morning.
As usual, something in me guessed that something was not quite right when I heard the ongoing alarm at the station. My guess was confirmed when I reached the platform and heard that the trains will be running slow and passengers are advised to be patient. All inconvenience caused is very much regretted. Thank you.
Sweet words when I first heard it last year but it has been such a regular occurrence that the impact is lost on me. I don't feel the Rapid KL management are really sorry for the inconvenience caused or else the system would have improved by now.
I'm not asking for miracles but passengers have hopes that the frequent breakdowns could be reduced to monthly affairs instead of the present almost weekly debacle.
As a friend said, why don't Rapid KL just announce that the trains would not be running on a particular day. At least the passengers can find alternative means to their destinations. Stop the service for as long as possible and get to the bottom of the persistent problem. Rectify the problem first and then start the service again.
Fat hopes, huh?

Different approach

When I read the article in thestar of 14 May 2007, the first thing that came to mind was, "Where are the Muslim care givers?" I have seen countless articles on non-Muslims giving a hand to the marginalized but I have yet to see anything similar from the Islamic groups or individuals, either established organisations or voluntary bodies. Maybe the Muslims do not publicise their good deeds.
Hopefully that is the case but a lingering smirk will always appear just picturing that scene appearing. Maybe I have been too jaded by the approach of some who are linked to the Malaysian Islamic authorities or individuals whenever they expound on the virtues of Islam. I hope against hope that there are Islamic organizations or individuals that are taking positive action in helping the forgotten segment of society instead of just focusing on the brim stone and burning in hell scenario.

Sexist remarks

I guess it is to be expected that the recent sexist remark by the ruling party member of parliament was defended by his fellow party members as highlighted in thestar of 12 May 2007. As someone said, it is as if that MP does not have a mother, wife, daughter or a female family member. Some of the comments from the ruling party members seems to suggest that such outbursts are permitted. It seems the remark is a consequence of the heated debate and no harm was meant from the words.

What gives? No harm?

Statements like that are reflective of someone who is utterly devoid of feelings towards the opposite gender. Common decency would have thought a person especially an elected representative of the people that women are not fair game to be humiliated or made scape goats every time something is wrong with the world.

I'm very disappointed that the leaders of the ruling party have not come forward to condemn those words. Another proof of their viewpoint on women.

Related links

sunday star

limkitsiang

A welcome improvement

I am very pleasantly surprised that Air Asia was on schedule on my departure from Kuala Lumpur to Bali on 28^th April 2007 as well as on the trip back on 2^nd May 2007. I've always expected the worst from them from past experiences. Dare I hope this new, at least for me, perfect timing will happen more often?

I was also quite glad that I carried my luggage on the way back as the immigration and customs process took just a few minutes. I almost had a shock when the immigration personnel had pleasant faces and was cordial to those who encountered difficulties with the automatic passport screening machines.

The machines are not superior to humans. They are so sensitive that the whole process of scanning the passports takes at least ten seconds. It is not a simple wave and bye procedure. Interestingly the lines at the machines almost always moves slower than those at counters manned by the officers.

The afternoon saw proactive immigration officers who asked politely those who were lining up at the machines to proceed to other counters so as to expedite the whole process of checking the passports.

It is nice to be home.

Here we go again

The Putra LRT service broke down again for the umpteenth time. As a colleague said, maybe in future, the Rapid KL management should inform the commuters the exact date the breakdowns will occur. At least those affected will be prepared beforehand and can make other arrangements. Better still, shut the whole system at least once a week. That seems to be the current frequency of the breakdowns. Eventually, we could even declare the whole system unfeasible and start from scratch with something new. That way, a new set of opportunists will be able to grease their pockets.

The news report in the thestar of 23 March 2007 says that “Rapid KL apologised to its customers for the inconvenience caused.”. That sounds more like a broken record playing ad infinitum.

Impending Death

Whenever I hear news of an impending death, I get a slight tremble. Knowing a person does not prepare oneself to the final reality that we will part company soon. My only hope is that the ongoing journey would be bearable to those closest to him. The doctors say the prognosis is bad. Maybe another six months. I hope that he would not suffer an agonising death. May it be brief and painless. Suffering is never pleasant.

Passengers stuck inside plane for an hour

Air Asia flight AK901 left Bali on 20th February as scheduled at 1.55 pm. The flight was smooth for most of the journey except for the bumps during the descent to Kuala Lumpur due to bad weather. The passengers were in fact due for a bigger shock when the plane landed on time at 4.40pm.

We were not allowed to disembark due to the rain that greeted us. It seems passengers are at risk since the airport area is prone to lightning. The captain said the wait might be ten to fifteen minutes. Some passengers became more impatient as the wait approached the half hour mark. I even overhead a girl saying that she is willing to sign a legal waiver absolving the authorities if anything happened to her on the tarmac. Alas, to no avail. So we remained seated and endured the forced detention.

Anyway, we had a pleasant surprise when the back door opened and passengers were allowed to disembark after the one hour wait. It was still drizzling and a trolley full of umbrellas were waiting for us at the bottom of the stairs. To everyone's utter disbelief, the distance between the rear door and the covered portion of the terminal was only about five minutes away. I guess we should be thankful to those managing the airline and airport that safety is their priority. Can't have everything our own way all the time, can we?

Moral of this tale, add another waiting period to your list of waits when using Air Asia.

Taken for a ride

The light rail transit system commuters in Kuala Lumpur using the Kelana Jaya line are a hardy lot. Yesterday was the umpteenth time the service had a malfunction during the peak morning hours. The commuters try to heed the government’s call to use the public transportation system in their daily lives and in return are rewarded with the sloppy and shoddy service.

Kuala Lumpur’s traffic headache will never end as long as the so called public transportation system does not rise to the occasion. Most probably those behind the master plan for a better public transportation system have not themselves used the available system at the moment. They would never realize the frustrations and the time wasted for all the frequent hiccups that occur almost daily. No wonder KLites still prefer to use their own cars to go from point A to point B despite the hefty increase in fuel, parking fees and toll rates.

No political will power, no properly thought out plans, every solution seems to be on an ad hoc basis. This saga will never end.

Chick Lit

1984 by George Orwell under Chick Lit. This is a revelation.

Air Asia Flight Delays

Just when I thought I could say something nice about Air Asia, they had to disappoint me again by the latest news item in today'’s the star newspaper. I had a pleasant trip to Bali last month by Air Asia. They even had an in-flight competition for some prizes in conjunction with their sponsorship of the Amazing Race Asia reality television programme.

Alas, my hopes of a sustained improvement in services might not last long. The reason for the delay this time is the extra time taken to check the planes. I do hope this extra precaution is not in vain. The customers do understand the need for safety but being left in the dark with no coordination in dispensing correct and up to date information is a big minus point. There are limits to anyoneÂ’s patience. We do hope passenger feedback will be taken seriously and improvements done to the system.

Hope.

One rule for the rich and another for the rest of us

That is the heading of a letter in thestar of 6th November 2006.

No ground breaking news here. Has it ever been otherwise?

Time to change people’s attitudes

This letter appeared in thestar of 4 November 2006.

Nothing much to add to what has been written in the letter but I do agree wholeheartedly with the sentiments of the writer. Needless to say, I should also not forget to thank a certan leader for promoting a certain vision for the country. Today, we get our just rewards.

Pot calling the kettle black

A case of short memory or is it selective recollection. The full details are in the web edition of the sun of 23rd October 2006.

Extracts:

"Q: You said Malaysia has become a police state. Isn'’t is ironic because your critics said the same thing about your administration?
A: I never stopped people from making speeches. In 1987, when Tengku Razaleigh, Musa Hitam and Abdullah Ahmad Badawi challenged me, Abdullah remained as minister. They were travelling all over the country, campaigning with Umno branches and divisions and I never stopped them. But of course, Pak Lah now says he was stopped. Umno branches said they heard him when he came to talk. And I know because when I went to his area to speak, he came up on the stage and he spoke also. I never stopped him from speaking. I never stopped Tengku Razaleigh from speaking, which is why, although I was nominated by 86 divisions and Tengku Razaleigh was nominated by 37 divisions, I barely managed to win because of the intensive campaigning carried out by Tengku Razaleigh, Musa Hitam and Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. But now, I am not allowed to speak to anybody. I know I'’m speaking to the Press now. I know some media companies will make some kind of spin about this but fortunately for us that in my time, we have the Internet, so I would advise people to read the Internet and not these newspapers because they are all getting phone calls."

I never stopped people from making speeches??? Duh. ISA, Operasi Lalang, Printing Press Act.

"Q: It seems that you have made a terrible mistake in choosing the Prime Minister.
A: Well I have made a lot of mistakes. I chose people and they all turn against me. I'’m very bad, really. You know when people come to me and cry over something, I think, ya, he is sincere. Although they were stabbing me before, when they come I accept them back."

He is so sweet. Kind hearted. Others stab him in the back. Poor guy. Not that brilliant after all if his anointed successors have been suchdisappointmentent...

Singapore corrupt?

My suspicions about squeaky clean Singapore had some support when I saw this article in bloomberg of 11th October 2006.
Excerpts:

``Actually, Singapore's success came mostly from being the money laundering center for corrupt Indonesian businessmen and government officials,'' Xie, who was based in Hong Kong before leaving Morgan Stanley on Sept. 29, wrote in the e-mail. ``Indonesia has no money. So Singapore isn't doing well.'' ``To sustain its economy, Singapore is building casinos to attract corruption money from China,'' Xie said.

I wonder why someone who works with Morgan Stanley, a renowned international firm, would even speculate about such things. Has not Singapore always pride itself of being above board? Maybe their cover-up job is so good that everyone has been hoodwinked into thinking that what is said is true.
But looking at Indonesia for example, I could see that a certain marginalised group has benefited a lot from their business links with Singapore. When push comes to shove, as in the debacle after Suharto's fall, many seek an escape route to Singapore. It is well known that quite a number have big investments in the city state and vice versa. Maybe the long lasting Suharto regime was propped up by money from the island state. Who knows?

Question Time: The NEP quota hangover

This headline in theedgedaily of 9th October 2006 seems very apt with the current debate on the fate of the NEP. I was particularly struck by this paragraph:

"So why is this misinformation perpetrated? The simple answer would be that there are many bumiputeras, especially the politically connected, who will benefit by it - but not the large majority of bumiputeras, mind you. These bumiputeras are those who benefit from an allocation of bumiputera shares to them at concessional rates and the need to get bumiputera partners to bid for government projects and so on. Many well-connected and politically influential bumiputeras will be affected if the quota system was unwound. That explains a lot of things happening now, particularly the reluctance of the political leadership all this while to do anything about the quotas or to revise the way that it is measured so that it is meaningful. It also explains why former deputy prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim supported the NEP when he was in government because he needed the support of those who benefit from it. Now, in opposition, that support becomes immaterial and he can call for the NEP to be abandoned. That would also explain why former Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB - a vehicle specifically set up under the NEP to enhance bumiputera equity ownership) chief executive officer Datuk Khalid Ibrahim now says the NEP could destroy the Malays because of the way it is structured to help only some bumiputeras and perpetuate inefficiency and patronage. And it also explains why young leaders such as Khairy Jamaludin, deputy head of Umno Youth, who was not even born when the NEP was implemented and of whom expectations were high that he would tread a more enlightened path given his youth and idealism, strongly defended the quota system."

These are the facts which those in power would never admit. As the article said, it is to the advantage of those in power to maintain the status quo ad infinitum. The have-nots will remain where they are now and any hopes of changing that situation will require a gargantuan effort from those in power. An enlightened power which the present administration does not seem to possess. Pity the meek and the downtrodden. Their fate in life???

Wherefore public transport

I was one of the thousands of commuters in Kuala Lumpur dependent on the light rail transport system affected by the system breakdown on Friday, 6th October 2006. This letter which appeared the next day in the Star sums up quite succintly how many feel about the system(?).

"Breakdown failure on operator’s part

FIRST-CLASS infrastructure, Third-World mentality. High-tech driverless Putra LRT, bottom-rung maintenance. It's sad.

Imagine this: Thousands of commuters during Friday morning rush hour. And the train system conveniently breaks down, again. Chaos results.

Are Malaysians surprised? No. That’s what makes the entire situation so wretched.

For the past five to six months, the LRT service has been disrupted about once a month. Every time it malfunctions, Putra staff will put up the sign “We are having an unavoidable technical problem”.

Many of us have travelled on the virtually trouble-free Singapore MRT.

It's simple. If you don’t maintain the trains, the system stalls.

I urge the Transport Minister to make the following changes:

1. Fire the top management in charge of Putra LRT. Constant system failure means failure on their part.

2. Fine the company RM1mil for every hour the LRT is down. It's a small sum to pay for delaying the thousands of people who would otherwise be working and contributing to the economy.

3. Display the LRT’s KPI. Show monthly statistics on system failure, late trains, Touch ’n Go breakdown, ticketing gate malfunction, air-conditioning failure in trains and stations. In this way, I'm sure Putra will do more to improve the system to save face.

4. Fire those who can’t meet these KPIs.

Drastic action is needed for a major change.

RADICALHOP,

Petaling Jaya."

I agree whole heartedly with the writer's suggestions but I doubt any of it will see the light of day any time soon. As it is, there will be an inquiry and it would be anyone's guess whether any action will be taken after that. The planners are never the ones who use the system. They are bureaucrats, pen pushers, cocooned in their air-conditioned offices dictating what is best for the rest of city. They must use the system too to see how viable or reliable it is in action. There is a huge difference between that lovely skecth on paper with reality.

Hope

An apt article appeared in thestar 30 October 2006 after the Chinese marginalisation statement by Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew.
Those without connections will always suffer in this country as long as the ruling party continues with its present policy of giving the wealth largesse to just a select few. We are just continuing the old feudal system replete with masters and servants. That system seems to be the preferred choice of the ruling class to maintain the status quo. The only hope of a viable alternative government does not seem to have much hope of seeing the light of day in the immediate future. We are so used to the current political set-up that anything which differs from the norm might look so strange to the majority.
Whatever faults the current administration has, the bread and butter issues seems to be a top priority. But the present escalating cost of living is testing the patience of the common people. The opposition might be able to make some headway if they exploit this issue intelligently and gave a better solution than the present government. If people of this country are assured that they at least can make a decent living within the present economic conditions then maybe the other issues such as sharing equitably the economic cake and race relations can be tackled with more vigour.
We do hope the future will be better for the next generation of Malaysians.

Racial polarisation

It is always intriguing whenever the great doctor says his piece. An example appeared in the sun 28 September 2006. Part of his speech appeared in the article on the Second Congress of Leaders of Traditional Religions held in Astana, Kazakhstan on 12-13 September 2006.

The excerpt.

'It would be more effective for heads of religious institutions to convince world leaders to help remove the causes of terrorism, than trying to convince terror groups to stop their aggression. Former premier Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, an invited speaker, said this when addressing delegates during the second day of the congress. Mahathir said:"Perhaps religious heads could persuade would-be terrorists not to blow up aircraft and their passengers but frankly, I do not think this will work." He said no matter who talks to them (terror groups), the pain will always be there and these people who threaten international security have no other means to fight their powerful enemies except via terror attacks. He said the anger and frustration of the Palestinian people have reached a stage where "rationality" is no longer possible. "Bereft of other weapons, they resort to blowing themselves up and killing innocent people," he said. Mahathir said the world must realise that the strategy of "out-terrorising" the terrorists by Israel and the United States is not working. "All that we see is an escalation in their counter-attacks and the whole world feels insecure and we are even being haunted by the fear of being blown out of the sky whenever we fly," he said. He called on religious heads to convince leaders of the countries against whom the attacks are directed to try and understand the problem and deal with the root causes. Later, in response to a question by theSun, Mahathir said the fervour of multi-cultural relations in Malaysia is the same as in Kazakhstan. "But, of course, there will be groups (in Malaysia) which will try to promote differences among the races but it is up to the majority to ensure that differences are settled in a proper way," he said. Asked what may have caused racial polarisation in the country and if it will grow to become a "painful thorn on the side" in later years, he said: "It is partly due to political reasons." "Because certain parties play up Islamic issues there will be a tendency for other parties to attempt to also make use of religion to seek'religious justification' by themselves." "In the process they might become more extreme and this will lead to the kind of problems we see among the people today," he said.'

I wonder which political party made the move to be more Islamic than its opposition. Did the leader forgot the decision he made to take into the party's fold an ex-student leader who was known to have strong support among the young and those aligned to the Islamic movement. The worsening polarisation we see in the country is in a way the result of policies implemented by the great doctor in his quest to achieve his vision of a developed Malaysia. He will never acknowledge that he had a part in the current predicament that we face. Not in his character to admit that he had made a mistake. Admitting one's mistake needs a bigger man. That man is not the doctor.

Marginalised

This letter which appeared in The Star 27 September 2006 is the first opinion I've seen which agrees with Lee Kuan Yew's statement about the marginalised status of the Chinese in Malaysia and Indonesia.

The letter:

"Meritocracy is the way for our country

SINGAPORE Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew's statement on the status of the Chinese in Malaysia has drawn the ire of many local politicians.

The statement is highly provocative but it strikes right at the heart of concern for many Malaysians who have had to live under the New Economic Policy and, as a result, have been disadvantaged in one way or another.

In a way there is some truth to Lee's statement. Isn'’t it marginalisation if some deserving students are denied schorlarships due to some discriminative policies which favour one group of people over another?

Similarly, in the commercial sector many outstanding and efficient local non-bumiputra companies are sidelined due to the affirmative policies.

Are these companies not being 'marginalised'?

I am proud of my country but increasingly I feel I am being treated like a second-class citizen.

I have two young daughters and it is my sincere wish to see them grow up in an environment where they will be judged based on merit and not on race or colour.

I hope the country is able to fully embrace the concept of meritocracy soon. Otherwise statements like the one uttered by Lee will continue to haunt us.

LOW LENG HUA,

Klang."

The last paragraph on meritocracy seems to say it all. Everyone would love to see the concept of meritocracy being practiced here but I doubt it will be embraced whole heartedly by the populace. This is especially so for those who feel threatened by any signs of encroachment to their perceived birth right as they have been anointed sons of the soil.

There is also another group which may have been overlooked by the great LKY. The marginalised within the "sons of the soil" group. It is a well known fact that there are different classes in that particular society and those with links to the upper echelons or knows someone along the lines of power would most probably get an easier and smoother ride in life. To me, these are the real marginalised as they have been hoodwinked into thinking that their lot will be better with the current party and machinery. Alas, anyone with the slightest inclination to deviate from the party philosophy would be deemed a pariah and not worthy of being helped. This is despite the fact that they are their own brethren in blood and religion. Take a look at Kelantan and those who support the opposition.

Each person in this country has to fight his own battles. The battle might involve family and friends and many have given up the struggle along the way. Please do something if we feel we have a stake in this country, if we do not want a perpetuity of all the negatives winning the day. I do not have the perfect solution but I do feel the mere presence of dissenting voices bodes well for the future.

A bloom

My newly planted frangipani has given me some bloooms. This is actually a bragging act before the actual test begins. The plant arrived yesterday and had already some blooms as the man from the nursery wanted to prove that the plant does bear flowers. I was just so overjoyed this morning that the plant did not keel over during the night. Anything can happen with my gardening expertise. I'm crossing my fingers that the plant, is it a he or she I'm unsure, will accept me as its guardian as long as it is under my care. That caring stuff we will have to wait and see. Hope for the best as usual.

Neighbours

I accidentally saw something sticking out on the ledge above my kitchen a few hours ago. On closer inspection it is a rag from one of the units above me. No one has come knocking at my door inquiring about that missing piece. So I shall assume that it not wanted anymore. To the rubbish bin it goes. Most probably I'll be having more unwanted and unexpected presents from above. The vagaries of living with all sorts of people in a confined environment. I'm had it easy compared to some horror stories from others who had bigger items that could even endanger lives found in their compounds. Thankful for little mercies but I do wish this gift will stop flowing..

Money Politics

As usual the headline in the sun of 12th September 2006 is pure Dr. M.

It seems incongruous that someone who started this particular trend in the ruling party’s tradition has come out against it. Once upon a time, money was not evident during the party’s election campaign. But since that particular leader came to power, that habit of currying favour with your supporters with the aid of the big ringgit has been accepted as normal procedure. A known fact but not acknowledged publicly. If that style of campaigning is so despicable to him, why did he not stop it from the start? He may feign innocence since he does not know personally of any cases but is it a case of putting the blinkers to reality. Anyway, what is happening at the moment is a product of his legacy. If he does not like what he is seeing, he should shoulder the responsibility. Or maybe he should be proud that his supporters/successors have learnt their lessons so well from the great master. You reap what you sow.

Improvement

It was a pleasant surprise when I went for my trip to Bangkok from Kuala Lmpur on 31^st

August 2006 as well as the return journey a few days later. Passengers were not kept waiting at the terminal for hours but we were let into the plane almost on schedule. There was a slight delay, maybe about ten minutes, before the actual taxing along the runway. This is such a vast improvement compared to the definition of delayed flights adopted by air asia – half an hour. I do hope they keep up with the good work. I also look forward to my next trip to see whether this improvement will be maintained or is it just a flash in the pan.

Image from air asia picture gallery

Does the end justify the means?

The fate that has befallen Malik Imtiaz Sarwar which he wrote in nst of 27th August 2006 marks a sad day for right thinking Muslims everywhere. There are sections of the Muslim community that do not want to engage in rational discussions but prefer bulldozing their beliefs unto others. There is that concept that since the believer has fallen out, he must be punished accordingly. Doesn't that solution strengthen the unbeliever's conviction that the religion is not for him. Condemning, sentencing is so very easy. But it will never make that man closer to the religion, but most probably the opposite. We'll wait and see but I do hope that Malik survives through it all. He is but one of the few shining light that might illuminate the darkness that the community is in at the moment. May he succeed in his quest to bring light to the those who can't see.

Blew my top

I have to acknowledge that the Kuala Lumpur taxi drivers are definitely kings of the road. I slammed the door of the tenth taxi that refused to take me to my destination about 8pm 25th August 2006. That particular driver became angry and there were shouts between us. I was fortunate that he did not beat me up in the heat of the moment.

Why does anyone become taxi drivers if they do not want to take passengers. The stock excuse is the heavy traffic especially when it rains. IÂ’m sure they know the risks involved when they choose this profession. Has anyone considered the passengers? Taxi drivers have the audacity to choose whom to take and the preferred destination. In the same breath they will complain they are having a hard time making a living.

So hopefully, they will get a taste of their own medicine when they least expect it. Then they will know that their attitude works both ways. They might be under the delusion that passengers have to play by their rules. Maybe in the taxi driversÂ’ world but any action will get a reaction. Someday, somewhere they will rue the day that they ignored the plight of passengers. Passengers are their bread and butter. They forgot that particular golden rule.

The authorities themselves seem helpless even after countless complains from the public. I still have to take taxis but I need to stop another blow up. That simmering anger is not worthwhile. I can still curse under my breath and say a silent prayer that they will meet their match one fine day. Bad thoughts.

The first flowers

It was with pride and joy when I saw the flowers today. Granted, it was just two flowers. To me, it was lovely and as you may have noticed I started the paragraph with the word "pride". It might be the pride before the downfall as I'm unsure whether there will be repeat performances from them - the plants. I do hope there will be more blooms in future. There is always that bit of trepidation not knowing whether I have done too much or too little. I'm talking about another life.
In this case, the pride and joy for this particular life may not be in the same category as parents who welcome their first born. But my feelings the moment I saw the flowers was akin to those proud parents. I should pass around the cigars.
I guess I'm taking liberties with this momentous event. I definitely did not do much in terms of nurturing the plants for the past week, watered them twice. I cannot take any credit for their magnificient show of colours or those perfect petals seen through my rose tinted lenses. Nature deservedly gets the major credit.
Thanks Mother Nature. Thanks flowers. I hope to see more of you soon.

Is it really shocking?

The headline in the nst of 18th August 2006 is a classic case of "Didn't you know all this is happening".

An excerpt:

One in two young adults are having sex. Unnerving? Try this. Eighty per cent of them do not use contraceptives.
What do you expect? When sex education is still a mundane taboo subject. Any student who does attend the classes may know the basics but practicising safe sex is a different ball game altogether. The sexual urges that peaks during the growing up years has to find an outlet somewhere and somehow irrespective of the edicts reprimanding the sexual act between unmarried couples. So, in the throes of passion, a lot of safety factors are conveniently forgotten.

The young ones do not think of death. The future is theirs. A different and a more holistic approach has to be found or else we will see more youth falling by the side..

Image from conceptimages

NO for now???

The headline in the nst of 15th August 2006 screamed at you that the decision on the bridge was final. I doubt that will satisfy the good doctor. He will continue to rant and rave since it was one of his pet baby projects.

The good doctor may have forgotten that the response from his successor and the cabinet follows exactly the lessons learnt during his 22 years tenure as the major domo of this country. The good doctor may recall that he did not even entertain any thoughts contrary to his vision and often times was dismissive of them. The doctor felt that his vision was the only route to progress for the nation. That path has taken us some ways towards a better standard of living etc but at what price. There are certain quarters who also forgot the fact that others do not have the same vision.

The good doctor is upset that his chosen heir has a different vision and method of doing things. Too bad. Or is this just the comeuppance that he deserves...

Artist impression of bridge from thestar 15th July 2006

My garden

At last a semblance of greenery in my miniscule plot of land. I'm not sure how long the plants will last as I neither have green thumbs or am the most dedicated person when it comes to taking care of living things. One of the reasons I do not have pets or plants is the thought of neglecting or abusing them. We shall see how long this green thing lasts.

Sensitive issues

It is interesting that there is now a ban on inter-religious discussions applicable to everyone according to thestar of 11th August 2006.

I love the way the word sensitive is used in this context. Now at last it is acknowledged that everyone is sensitive over the issue. But why? Is this the result of our very harmonious society, paraded around the world as an exemplary multi-racial, multi-religion nation. As if the those in power are so naive.

The old edict of divide and rule is still used by those who seek power. It is to their advantage that the nation is not united. The populace just tags along as long as the bread and butter issues are well taken care off. Even that is debatable.

I have not heard of any civilised heart to heart discussions between leaders on the sensitive issue of religion. One side is always adamant that there should be no compromise when it comes to religion. They are always right and everyone should follow. Humanity is missing. They have never even thought of putting themselves in the other's shoes. I'm sure they are following the Book to the tee but I've yet to see any mention that you should bulldoze your way to show your might. Compassion yes, but pig-headednes, definitely not.

I wish and double wish that these leaders would come to their senses. People are not automatons. They have feelings just like you and me. Please oh please, give a chance to the other view. Listen and you can even argue, but please do it in a civilised manner. Do not use the bullying tactics or a show of strength. The other side will react and the consequences might be even more painful than the infamous May 1969 incident.

Picture is of the Malaysian Home Minister, Datuk Seri Mohd Radzi Sheikh Ahmad, from thestar of 25th February 2006.

Extinct turtles?

Compare the reports from the UN Environment programme which appeared in cosmosmagazine the 8th August 2006 and the feedback from the Turtle and Marine Ecosystem Centre (Tumec) which appeared in thestar of 10th August 2006. What is the difference between "declined drastically"” and "“effectively extinct"”. The Tumec head disputes the effectively extinct verdict in the UN report.

He said the authorities found five nesting places with 336 eggs of two leatherback turtles this year compared to one nesting place with 90 eggs in 2005. In 2003, 14 leatherback nesting places, with 1,083 eggs, were detected while in 2004, five nesting places with 295 eggs were found.

I do not see any encouraging news from those statistics. Anyone can see that two turtles landing is a very dismal figure and this is already August 2006. Yes, I guess we can try and save the whole population starting from those two but isn't this a case of too little too late. That has always been the predicament faced by those involved with conservation in Malaysia. There is a lot of talk but any action taken leaves much to be desired. Lack of political will is one of the major contributing factors to this situation. I doubt the situation will change that much unless and until those in power realize that the non-human population is also important to this country.

We have inadvertently killed the goose that lay the golden egg.

Picture from cosmosmagazine

First choice in Singapore, not here

That is the heading of a letter from a reader published in thestar 22 June 2006.

One particular paragraph summed up the dilemma.

"At first, I was reluctant to accept any of the offers by the Singapore universities as I thought I had a responsibility to serve my country.

Moreover, the Government has been working hard in addressing our country's brain drain problem."

That paragraph speaks volumes about the sentiments of “the others”, since it is usually this group that gets rejected from Malaysian universities despitfulfillingng all the requirements. Unfortunately, they could never cross to the other side of the road unless they become Muslims.

It is tragic, unsavoury and demeaning to say the least when your own country does not want you just because you are not one of them. The government may say otherwise but reality stares glaringly bright. This does not happen only in education but throughout the broad spectrum of Malaysian life.

The leading brains should just stop wasting their time trying to get back the brain that has gone away. If the so-called think-tank could not or would not point out the government's policy blunders, the trend will continue ad infinitum. All the talk about unity in diversity would just be paying lip service to higher ideals. No action, just talk.

Why the Malay Agenda won’t help Malays

This article sums up quite neatly what is happening among the Malays in Malaysia today - 2006. This article is in theedgedaily and the printed version appeared on 12 June 2006.

Some excerpts.

"But more often than not, it'’s not the community they are looking out for. They are looking out for themselves and for very narrow interests within the community, often at the expense of the very community they purport to represent."

"They" in this article refers to the leaders of the Malay community. How so very true but of course it is not acknowledged by "them". There are also supporters who do not mind being their lackeys as long as they get their share of the largesse. A continuation of the feudal lord-servant mentality, perhaps?

"The new Malay Agenda must recognise that a clean, efficient and incorruptible government serves the Malay's best interests and that what is good for the country as a whole is good for the Malays too because they form the majority in the country. In many ways, the new Malay Agenda will also be a Malaysian Agenda."

A most heartening wish. I do hope it will become a reality but I doubt this will happen in my lifetime. Maybe in the next generation or two if everyone is willing to put the good of the community first. That will be the day.

Fragile faith

It takes the Prime Minister himself, check thestar 16 June 2006, to put a stop to the so-called fatwa that the kongsi raya celebrations is a big no-no for muslims. I’m sure he’ll be cursed to kingdom come for being bold enough to issue such a statement. This will be another test whether the PM’s vision of a moderate Islam can withstand the pummeling from the established conservative religious scholars.

The fight will be an uphill struggle since the religious establishment is always adamant that their interpretation is the correct version of how we should lead our lives as Muslims. Any suggestions otherwise is dismissed as half-baked ideas from those not qualified to delve into religious matters.

We will wait and see what will be their next move.

Ulamas want kongsi raya celebrations reviewed

That headline appeared in the The Star 14th June 2006.

Here we go again. Why do Islamic religious leaders in Malaysia keep on harping on minor issues. There are other important and urgent issues to be discussed rather than a review of practices such as the 'kongsi raya' celebrations and open house. It seems this is to ensure that the celebrations do not contradict Islamic laws.

'the National Fatwa Committee had decided that celebrating the festivals of other religions could erode the faith of Muslims and could lead to blasphemy.'

Has there been any indications of such thing happening. I for one who is not well versed in Islamic laws cannot see what went wrong. I have always thought that once the fundamental allegiance that there is 'Only One God That Is Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger' has been made, all else will follow suit. The Muslims will learn about the good and bad guided by that oath.

The open house concept is just celebrating each others big day. I do not see any wavering from that fundamental oath. I'm sure there are some Muslims who partake of forbidden things during those festivities but I doubt they have forgotten that oath or have had a change of heart and change their allegiance to others.

The leaders must look again at what exactly is affecting the community. Are they afraid of losing the flock. If that really is the case, should not the way the religion has been thought be reviewed. At the moment the hell and brimstone aspect is emphasised and the beauty of the whole concept of Islam has been neglected. The Muslims in Malaysia seem to be Muslims in name but the love for their religion is missing. The externals are there but the fundamentals are not internalised. What a shame.

And who, really, is demonising whom?

That is the title in the New Sunday Times 11 June 2006 from the man who has been accused of masterminding a 'blackout' of the good doctor in the Press.

At least we know his point of view which generally reflects what a lot of people think of the current rantings of the good doctor. I'm not sure the good doctor sees the whole picture and consequences of his rantings. If push comes to shove will he come out squeaky clean. As the saying goes people who live in glass houses should not throw stones.

The good doctor is only human. He is not infallible. I have not detected an iota of humility when the good doctor speaks of his frustrations with the current administration's handling of national affairs. The good doctor's plans or vision is not for me at least my plan or vision for this country. The cabinet's agreement with the good doctor while he was in power is more a reflection of the yes-men mentality of the whole group that surrounded him. Any dissent is always dismissed. Just look at Musa Hitam and Daim Zainuddin's resignations.

The good doctor always knows best even if the medicine kills the patient in the process. Take a look at the damage done to the environment in the name of progress. For a doctor, he has failed miserably to take account the fragile nature of this temporary abode we call Earth. He knows if we take step A, we will gain something in terms of economic and monetary progress. But what about the opportunity cost? There has been a lot of objections to his vision and the minority groups that were affected negatively by those plans. But since they are the small people who are inconsequential to the whole scheme of thing, their voices have been silenced.

That is our good doctor.

Some opinions on the good Dr's comments

A few opinion pieces today 9^th June 2006 from Rehman Rashid at NSTP as well as Wong Chun Wai and Joceline Tai at the Star sums up quite neatly what is happening.

I find this statement from Joceline intriguing:

'What he said on Wednesday was perhaps the deepest cut. It amounted to disowning his choice of successor and was as good as a severing of ties. But can one disown one's own decision without casting some aspersions on oneself?'

The good doctor has not come clean on why he chose Abdullah over Najib. Is Abdullah in his eyes a pushover, to be manipulated behind the scenes? That would be ideal for the circle around the doctor as they would benefit the most from any decisions that are in their favour.

But so far, Abdullah has been his own man. The business community might argue that the economic pace has slowed down compared to the halcyon days of the doctor. But has everyone forgotten the high price we paid and still are paying for those projects. The consequent social problems.

For example, the construction industry had a heyday with so many government spearheaded projects. The labour force comes from abroad with their own attendant problems. The local work force are set aside since the industry argues that the imported labour is cheaper. At what price. The hallmark of the doctor's schemes have always been 'implement the plan at whatever cost to the nation'. Whereas his successor tries to take a more holistic approach. An overall view of the opportunity costs that will accrue if this or that project is carried out. Of course he is not perfect. A different style entirely and that bugs the good doctor to the core.

Here we go again

Today the 8th June 2006 big news in most of the dailies is about the good doctor again as in the New Straits Times

Some excerpts:

Dr Mahathir complained that the new Government had cancelled several major projects initiated during his two decades in power, despite assurances they would be carried out after he left office.

Hmmm, I wonder whether he is talking on behalf those who have been left out of the money making machine. - big projects. The present PM is just continuing the previous administration's legacy in other areas and the spoils goes to the inner circle of the present leadership.

He is also upset that the pace of development of Putrajaya has slowed; peeved that the Johor bridge project has been scrapped; and angered that the National Automotive Policy has put Proton at a disadvantage.

All those projects mentioned and others as well have their detractors from the start. The previous leader has never entertained any disagreements to his vision, a classic example of doctor knows best. Some of the plans worked well but others seem more half baked than anything else. There are some projects like the Bakun Dam that should have been given more thought but it was just pushed through hurriedly.

"One cannot tell what a person will do when the person is out of your control," Dr Mahathir said yesterday. "I thought I had made the right choice."

A telling statement. He controls people. So why the surprise and frustration when the person is out of his control? It is just a logical progression for those who have been so long under the rule of one man to try and breath easier and try to do their own thing in their own way. It is just the wheel of fortune turning as usual if some of the things seem the opposite of what been agreed during his leadership.

He can continue his vigilance over the present administration but to harp on the change in attitude and direction seems naive. They are just implementing what has been learned during his leadership – power in one hand and be damned to all opposition.

Misyar marriages

I'’m not knowledgeable about the haram or halal of the arrangement. That would need further research. On first glance, a marriage just to satisfy the sexual needs of both partners by exchanging marriage vows without any financial responsibility on the man's part seems ideal. According to those well versed in Islamic laws there is nothing sinister about the arrangement since the woman has agreed.

I wonder whether this is just slightly above the usual cohabitation arrangements practiced by a number of couples nowadays or even the state of some legally sanctioned marriages, in terms of ethics and morality. One of the arguments supporting this kind of marriage is to lessen the incidence of sexual acts outside the legally sanctioned marriage institution. It seems this arrangement would be an avenue for single woman who are financially independent but with no luck in the man stakes to fulfill her sexual needs. This is where the man comes along to 'help'’. He is the proverbial stud but does not have to be responsible for the woman'’s material needs. How convenient. As the experts say, the woman has agreed. So there!!!!

Lelaki Komunis Terakhir - Curtains

At last, the final curtain has fallen on Lelaki Komunis Terakhir (The Last Communist). Would this be the harbinger of the future fate of independent, non-mainstream thoughts and ideas? We have always tried to push the boundaries of accepted liberalism in this country. The internet age has managed in a way to level the playing field. Alas, the internet itself is full of inconsequential gibberish that prudence is required.

The silent majority has to play a bigger role in demanding that differences in opinions are not evil incarnate undermining the security and prosperity of the country. The ban will definitely not stop others from starting their own "‘controversial"’ projects. I guess this ban will see pirated sales of the film in our night markets. Too bad the producers themselves would not be able to make any profits from the sales unless they make a pact with the pirates. That arrangement would certainly help the producers in recouping their investment and at least help finance future projects.

I wait patiently for the next Amir film which is still at the production stage, "Susuk" to gain its fair share of notoriety.