Spot On

The following letter to the editor appeared in the Star of 3^rd April 2008.

It not only puts the whole issue of extremism and Islam in the right perspective but is a clarion call to all moderate Muslims to take a stand against those who have hijacked the religion for their own benefits.

I particularly like the paragraph - “Yet, none of the moderate Muslim leaders denounce or reject the violent, hateful extremists even as they protest against a film prominently featuring them.”

I for one acknowledge that I am a guilty party to this silent apathetic stance.

The whole letter:

Extremists must be taken to task too

HAVING read Dr Chandra Muzaffar’s letter “Film is fitnah indeed” (The Star, April 1), I agree with his conclusion that Geert Wilders’ film intentionally misrepresents Islam as a religion that discriminates against non-Muslims, although I do not see why Dr Chandra considers Wilders’ views as racist when Islam is a religion, not an ethnicity.

Joining him in protest are Muslim groups and leaders worldwide, including former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Barisan Nasional Youth, the National Fatwa Council and the Muslim Consumers Association of Malaysia. They are all saddened by the film’s wrong portrayal of Islam as inherently violent and intolerant.

But I am also saddened to note that even as the Muslim leaders are outraged at Westerners deemed to be mocking Islam, not a peep is uttered about the extremists who call for hatred and death against non-Muslims – as captured on video in the Dutch film.

The only reason Wilders’ film is considered to be smearing Islam is because it repeatedly juxtaposes verses from the Quran with videos of terrorist attacks and extremist imams preaching hatred of non-Muslims.

If so, then why aren’t moderate Muslim leaders and groups condemning the extremists who interpret those verses as justification for their hate-mongering? Without their antics, Wilders’ film would have little material to cause provocation with.

These extremists are the ones who cause some Westerners to view Islam as a violent religion. These extremists are the ones hijacking and re-branding Islam as a religion of war and intolerance in the public eye.

In my opinion, such extremists are far more to blame for giving Islam a negative image than lone individuals such as Wilders. Who is more likely to give a religion a bad name – some mocking “outsider” who has an ulterior political motive or violent “insiders” who actually claim to follow that religion?

Yet, none of the moderate Muslim leaders denounce or reject the violent, hateful extremists even as they protest against a film prominently featuring them.

Instead, more calls for boycotts and more protests are made against Wilders – a man whose image of Islam is undoubtedly coloured by those very extremists. What image does this portray when every time, Muslim leaders attack the messenger (Wilders or newspaper cartoons), but not the message that they are noisily proclaiming – about extremists who are successfully using Islam as a rallying cry for violence and hatred?

In fact, I am certain that Wilders is counting on such a knee-jerk reaction from Muslims, with maybe some riots and spontaneous murders of innocent bystanders thrown in (such as what happened with the Jyllands-Posten controversy), in order to prove his point to the world.

If his aim is to influence public opinion into seeing all Muslims as hate-filled extremists, then I’m afraid that the prominent Muslim moderates are unwittingly aiding his agenda with their very selective denouncements.

SCOTT THONG YU YUEN,

Ipoh.

Sack bad advisers

Datuk Seri Dr. Lim Keng Yaik's advice that the PM should sack bad advisers is just one of the remedies needed by the present ruling government.

Dr. Lim hit the nail on the head when he also mentioned other factors that contributed to the recent mauling of the BN party at the hands of the opposition in the recently concluded 12^th Malaysian general election.

“Other reasons contributing to the losses included the arrogant attitude of some Barisan politicians, the lack of cyber campaigning and the discriminatory implementation of government policies by certain civil servants, he pointed out.”

There is no necessity for the PM to have an independent panel to find out why Malaysians rejected the BN. The few reasons mentioned by Dr. Lim should be sufficient to start an overhaul of the whole BN concept and how it implements its policies.

Of course, there is also the oft-forgotten factor of self denial.

Malaysia PM rejects calls to quit

What a difference in attitude compared to Dr Koh Tsu Koon. Granted, the PM did not lose his seat, but he is the chief architect, the leader and the man responsible for the country's current mess.

For once I agree with the good doctor. The poor guy, he has very poor judgment when it comes to appointing his successor.

The PM and his BN cohorts are so obviously out of touch with the sentiment of the people which has been festering and clamouring for a positive change for the past four years. A malice that had its seed planted from the previous administration. A promise to change the way the country is administered is just that, a promise.

Now it will be the opposition's turn to prove that they will hold true to the promises made during the election campaign. It will be an interesting battle of wits, to say the least, between the federal government who still holds the purse strings and the five opposition controlled states.

If nothing else, this is definitely the dawn of a new ear for this country.

Ticket machines: Better service by end of month

I just saw this reply which appeared in the NST of 7 February 2008.from the RapidKL management to a query from a reader regarding the ticket vending machines at KLCC.

A few gems:

'However, since the problem occurred during the weekend when we have fewer technical personnel available, there was a delay in rectifying the problem.

We truly understand the situation and constraints faced by the writer.'

Shouldn't the management deploy the same number of technicians or even more during the weekends. KLCC is a major attraction in Kuala Lumpur and there are crowds even during the weekend. If the management truly understands, this simple effort would help a lot.

'In view of the fact that the upgrading of these machines is under the purview of Syarikat Prasarana Negara Berhad, the asset and infrastructure owner, we discussed this matter with them some time ago but were informed the upgrading had been delayed.'

Did this problem occur only after the change of ownership? I don't think so. This particular statement seems to be a stock answer for a lot of companies who have undergone a change in ownership. The message is loud and clear, pass the buck.

'However, the upgraded machines will be in place at all stations by the end of this month.'

We'll see.

Foreigner bashing

This letter to the editor appeared in the Star of 7 February 2008.

'Foreigner-bashing in the heart of KL’s tourism belt

LAST weekend, in the vicinity of the Pavilion in KL, just outside Wisma Cosway, I witnessed a disturbing incident.

A group of young boys, aged between 13 and18, were running around in a mob. While running, if they saw someone who looked like a Bangladeshi, they would push and punch the person and quickly run away before the victim could react! I saw this happen five times within a few minutes.

Most people would brush it off as just a bunch of young punks “having fun” but the consequences can be catastrophic.

This is in the vicinity of KLCC and the Golden Triangle! What kind of international publicity would that provoke? Even worse, what if it was a local mistaken for a foreigner? Then, it would be racial time bomb!

I hope that the authorities and especially the police realise that these “minor” incidents and bad behaviour may be small to bother about now but what about the long-term effects.

What I witnessed is just the tip of an iceberg.

BAFFLED LOCAL BORN,
Subang Jaya'

This looks like the second time I've seen someone commenting on youths mobs accosting innocent bystanders. In this particular incident, the target are foreigners. As the writer says it is just a racial time bomb waiting to happen

if the victim is a Malaysian.

What exactly has happened to our youths. They have so much time on their hands that they have to resort to bashing people to get their kicks. Is this a sign that the mayhem brought by neo-nazis or football hooligans in western countries are making an appearance here?

Those entrusted with keeping the peace seems conveniently missing from the scene. Where are they? Their presence would at least be a preventive measure. A short term solution but very necessary to curb this disease in the bud.

Non-Halal food

A news item in the Straits Times Singapore dated 5 February 2008 seem eerily familiar.

The highlight of the news item for me was this paragraph:

'Religious leaders agreed that such moves by schools will result in a backlash.

Mr Rhazaly Noentil, veteran mosque leader at the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis), said other races will think that the Muslims are not accomodating towards others.

Religious leaders said Muslims and non-Muslims can dine together, as long as Muslims consume halal food.'

I doubt Malaysian Islamic religious authorities would even give such a statement. Maybe after some pressure from the government. Willingly, I don't think so. There are so many who are supposedly knowledgeable in Islam with a win or lose attitude when confronted with matters pertaining to the religion.

Why can't we think of others as well. They have feelings too. The authorities always stress that Islam is a very tolerant faith but in practice, there is so much blatant bulldozing of rules. When will the enlightened come forward?

Bibles confiscated

This news item appeared in the Star of 5 February 2008.

'Fu: Seized Bible copies returned to owner

PUTRAJAYA: Copies of the Bible taken from a woman at the Low Cost Carrier Terminal recently have been returned to her, Deputy Internal Security Minister Datuk Fu Ah Kiow said.

He said the that English Bible was confiscated by a Customs officer from the woman who had just returned from a visit to Manila.

He said it did not involve the ministry.

“The Customs officer has no authority to do so and on being told of the matter, we asked the Bible to be returned immediately to the person,” he said.

Fu said the incident should not have taken place, adding that he had clarified the matter with the Council of Churches Malaysia (CCM).

He said the address of the person was taken but no telephone number was noted down and as a result, the ministry had to wait for the person to call to collect the books.

He was responding to a statement by the CCM secretary-general Rev Dr Hermen Shastri that a Malaysian Christian had her Bibles taken away by Customs at the airport.

Shastri said that the unilateral actions of certain government agencies were undermining the Government’s stated claims of protecting religious freedom in the country.

Last month, Fu ordered Christian children’s books with drawings of prophets to be returned to a bookshop in Kuala Lumpur after the books were seized by a unit in the ministry.'

What is happening? This is not the first time an incident like this occurred. Does the seizure of religious books by the Malaysian authorities mean non-Muslims cannot practice their religion anymore? Does everyone have to be Muslims? Even that route would be the version approved by the religious department. Are we turning into another Saudi Arabia? The only country I know where every citizen must be Muslim and practicing their approved version of the religion. Frightening thought. No wonder more and more Malaysians are leaving the country including the Muslims.

Government Jobs

This letter appeared in the Star of 1 February 2008.

Elusive job in the civil service

THE past weeks, a few government officials including our Chief Secretary have announced that the Government will change its method of recruiting people as civil servants.

This is a good move, and I hope it will able to attract excellent people to join the Government and GLCs. It will also diminish any criticism against the Government that recruitment methods are biased and selectively based on race and gender of the applicants.

However, I will like to share my experiences when applying for government positions since graduating a decade ago.

I had been applying for jobs with the PTD, government agencies and also GLCs for as long as I can remember without receiving any feedback whatsoever. I was not called for any interview.

My latest experience was when I applied for a post with a newly set-up government authority for one of the economic corridors.

I managed to pass the two interviews, including one with the managing director of the agency, with flying colours.

According to an HR official, I would get the job but they needed to do some restructuring within the organisation before they could issue me an offer letter.

I waited for nearly three months for the agency to issue a Letter of Employment (LOE) and was given a lot of excuses by their HR department for not being able to issue one immediately.

Just this week, I received a letter from the agency saying that they could not offer any LOE. They also could not tell me why they could not hire me.

Even though I do respect that it is their sole prerogative, it is very sad that this agency, which is supposed to lead government investments and projects, performs unprofessionally.

By the way, I am Malay with an overseas degree in accounting and with working experience in IT and project management.

The PM or Chief Secretary to the Government can announce a lot of policies or encourage people to join government service, but at the end of the day the bureaucrats decide the applicant’s fate.

DISSATISFIED APPLICANT,

Kuala Lumpur.

If it is true that the letter writer is a Malay, then it is proof that the brain drain will continue irrespective of race. The civil service will never be able to attract the best and brightest that the country has as long as the little napoleons frustrate the noble aim of filling in the jobs with quality. We will definitely get the quantity.

Development or principles

This letter to the editor appeared in the Star 31 January 2008.

Development not a reward but a duty

TO ALL aspiring candidates in the coming general election, I wish you would not pretend to have the people’s problem at heart and at the same time issue “threats” that they will not see any development in their area should they give their votes to the “other side.”

It is shocking to read such statements from politicians, as in this day and age the majority of the people are more aware of their rights and the duties expected from an elected representative.

In any election, there will always be a winner and a loser. Just because the candidate from the ruling party loses doesn’t mean development for the area comes to a halt.

MPs and State Assemblymen are chosen by the people to “serve the people” and not the other way round.

Bringing development to the people irrespective of which way they voted is a responsibility of the Government not a reward.

MICHAEL NG,
Seremban.

I doubt the ruling party agrees on the writer's opinion. The vote for development mantra has been a part of the election process in Malaysia since independence from the British. This exchange might also occur in other countries but it is blatantly obvious here.

The hardest hit would be those in the rural areas where development aid however meagre is heaven sent. They are the people who need the basics to survive. But hats off to them when they vote the opposition as it does show that they are willing to sacrifice that immediate gain. Of course, they will suffer in a way but there is a sweet after taste in the knowledge that you have managed to dent the ruling party juggernaut.

How Hindraf can help itself

That was the headline of a letter to the editor which appeared in the Star of 14th December 2007.

The writer's suggestions seems to be reasonable especially some parts:

"should strongly consider and carry out but in a responsible approach – legally, through the proper channels and peacefully.
If and when they become leaders, make the changes. Keep in mind that leaders in Malaysia should not represent one particular race or religion but each and every citizen of Malaysia.

Please drop this hostile approach.

Abide by the law. Rallies can’t work in Malaysia. "

But I am not sure the Hindraf leaders would even consider the suggestions as they seem hell bent on using the confrontational approach.

No favours asked

This letter to the editor which appeared in the Sun of 28 November 2007 is one of the most illuminating and encouraging statement from someone who has managed to come to terms with what life has given her.

This is the spirit and gumption which should be a part and parcel of everyone irrespective of creed or religion. But alas, a lot of us tend to give in to our base instincts and seek the easy way out. A damning scenario.

"No favours asked I am a first generation Malaysian Indian. My father came to Malaysia from India in search of a better life. He left behind the security and comfort of his homeland, his family, his relatives and friends because he truly believed that Malaya (as it was known then) was a land of opportunity. This country, he told himself, would become his new home. No one forced him to come – it was a personal choice. In time, my father sent for his bride to be and my mother too came to this unknown and foreign land. They soon settled down and started a family, which would grow over the years to include seven children. Life was not easy here but my father persevered. He could have easily thrown in the towel, packing up his family and leaving for his familiar homeland as did many others, but he did not. Yes, he faced many kinds of trials and tribulations – financial woes were aplenty and discrimination at the workplace was rife. But he took it all in stride. This was his homeland now – both my parents had given up their Indian citizenships and were proud to call themselves Malaysians. They were willing to take whatever life gave them. My father has since passed away. Since coming to Malaysia, he only visited his country of birth on two occasions – the last one was just a couple of months before his death. My mother on the other hand, returned to India only once and it has now been more than 40 years since her last visit. When I asked her if she misses the land of her birth, she said that except for wanting to visit her siblings over there, she is quite content in remaining in Malaysia as this is her home now. I am not afraid to admit that growing up in Malaysia has not been a complete bed of roses – there have been numerous ups and downs, many instances of discrimination and injustice but I have learned to take it in my stride. Many a job has slipped from my fingers not because I lacked the qualifications or experience but simply because I am the wrong colour. Yet discrimination comes in many forms – so it will be unfair for me to only highlight the racial discrimination that still exists in this country – we face discrimination in many places – in our places of worship, amongst our own ethnic community, in the workplace, gender discrimination etc. There are many like me who have faced walls and barriers and there are many like me who have picked ourselves up from the dust of oppression, put a smile on our faces and marched on with determination. I don’t hold my parents responsible for the struggles I face in life and I don’t lament that the world owes me a living. I know of many people who have pulled themselves out of the depths of poverty through sheer hard work and determination and who have made something of themselves. While it would have been easy for them to start pointing fingers and blaming everyone else for their sad state of affairs, they have chosen to channel their energy into something worthwhile and make something of themselves. Then there are those who use their talents in helping others – in bringing a positive change to a particular group or community. They are aware of the many shortcomings in legislative measures and government funding, so instead of merely making noise about the situation, they chose to do something about it as well. If we believe that our community has remained at the bottom of the ladder all these years, then perhaps its time we asked ourselves why. Have we allowed ourselves to remain in the shackles of "colonisation" and hoped that someone would hand us the key or have we attempted to break free? There are many success stories amongst the Indian community so why do we continue to sit and wait for hand-outs when we can fend for ourselves? Let’s face it – there is no one government anywhere in the world that is perfect. If there were, then there certainly would be a mass exodus to that Utopia. However it is not impossible to reach this Utopia – all we have to do is free ourselves from this "the world owes me" mentality and learn to help ourselves. A quote from the great Mahatma Gandhi says it well: "Rights that do not flow from duty well performed are not worth having." Patricia Pereira Via e-mail"

Abort policy?

I like this letter to the editor which appeared in the New Straits Times of 20^th November 2007.

Use of English: Stick to the goal

By : S.K., Seremban

I AM concerned about our education system and the haggling over the teaching of subjects in English.

There appeared to be good reasons for the change five years ago, but these reasons are forgotten and there are attempts to revert to the old system.

When a new policy does not meet its expectations, please don't abort it but introduce changes so that the goals can be achieved. Please don't conduct experiments on education.

The last paragraph is very telling. As I recall, there was a concerted effort to teach all subjects in Bahasa Malaysia starting from the 1970s. So, any failure in that system means that policy should not be aborted, right? Why the switch back to English?

The often quoted answer for the switch back was the role of the language of instruction in pulling down the standards. Is that true? I still feel that language is a tool. The change to Bahasa Malaysia was supposed to be not just as an instrument of instruction but also a rallying point for the citizens of Malaysia.

Just have a look at non-English speaking countries in the world especially those in Europe and everyone's favourite country at the moment, China. They have made quantum leaps in the fields of science and technology through, surprisingly the use of their own mother tongue. Not English.

Of course English is the dominant language in the world at the moment. But notice how many in the West are learning Mandarin to gain a foothold in China? So maybe, it all boils down to the political will of the leaders. If the leaders deem a particular language is necessary to improve the nation's competitive age in the market place, they will come with all sorts of reasons to abandon that old policy.

A better perspective on last saturday's demonstration?

Some of the points I like in the article by Rehman Rashid which appeared in the New Straits Times 16th November 2007.

But what they were really up against were the provisions inserted into the Constitution as a caution against mass rallies turning into mass murder.

Perhaps the 47 years since the Emergency and 38 years since the May 13 riots are sufficient to prove that Malaysians can be trusted now to assemble without let or hindrance; that the police should be expected to perform only traffic management, not crowd control.

Had that been the point of it, Saturday's rally might have helped prove that point. Breaking the law to change the law may be justified if "the law is an ass, an idiot", as Dickens' Mr Bumble fatuously remarked in Oliver Twist. But changing the system to change the law is oxymoronic.

I could sympathise, therefore, with his insistence on "changing the system". That's where he and the rally made perfect sense: Why respect a system you want to change? So my only question to him was: Change to what?

But is that what our reformists want? If so, no one's saying so. "Clean Elections", "Judicial Reform" or "Burn Baby Burn" all lack the specificity that would help the rest of us know exactly what they're selling. What exactly do they see as a better future for all? Where would they take us? What's the end they have in view?


Yes, it is still a blur to me too. Better the devil we know?

Malaysian Poetry by a Malaysian

A friend forwarded this poem to me:

Happy Diwali everyone


This is a story about Malaysian society
Where different races supposedly live in harmony
In 2003, came along a Prime Minister by the name of Abdullah Badawi
Who led his party to a resounding election victory.

This is a PM whose promises are many
All his slogans are equally catchy
As a result, many people are taken in completely
By his humble and Mr. Clean personality.

First among his chief promises is to combat corruption immediately
That has everyone applauding loudly
But until today, all the major cases are still one big mystery
Lack of evidence or is he fooling us secretly?

Not long after, he introduced Islam Hadhari
Some complained there is only one version of Islam from the Almighty
Anyway, what is it all about, no one knows exactly
Except for some broad points outlined in theory.

Then, he said we need to cut our budget deficit quickly
Which started the dismantling of Tun M's legacy
This caused us to hear about the crooked bridge flip flop story
With all the accusations, what is fiction and what is reality?

By his own admission, his son is extremely wealthy
Because he controls a listed company by the name of Scomi
Was once implicated in the shipment of banned components to a
Middle Eastern country
But his son claimed ignorance and that's the end of the story.

He also has a son-in-law by the name of Khairy
Not elected but is UMNO Youth's deputy
Got entangled in the merged Avenue-ECM Libra entity
Which happened right under the nose of the PM-led Finance Ministry.

Then, we came across a foreign newspaper reporting factually
Of his adventure to see a yacht at a faraway place somewhere in Turkey
This is not true, he said insistently
But I don't see the newspaper issuing any apology.

Next, came the jet on the itinerary
Bought or leased, he is lucky that Malaysians are not financially savvy
The jet is also for the Agong's use, he said publicly
I wonder whether the Agong requested for one specifically?

Later, we read of his holidays in an Australian city
Staying in a mansion owned by someone named as Patrick Badawi
We shouldn't be so critical if he was only away temporarily
Except for the fact that there was a major flood in our own territory.

Then, we get the case of Proton disposing off a subsidiary
Not for a large amount but for a mere penny
Many think behind the deal something's very fishy
Tun M's pet project is certainly going awry.

Overall, crime rates are going up rapidly
Confidence in our police is at its lowest historically
But the IGP got his tenure extended easily
He must be thinking everything's hunky-dory.

He has also been busy launching economic regions lately
Trying to attract foreign investments into the country
Sadly, some are saying that the northern development is benefiting a crony
While others argue the southern one will end up as LKY's colony.

You see, I can go on and on about this indefinitely
Because it is easy and I do not need to create any of them individually
They are all plucked from the web where the stories about him is aplenty
From promoting judges unfairly to always being sleepy.

Actually, I am just an ordinary Malaysian who cares about her country
And I have to state that I am not against him or his policy
For I do not care who is the Perdana Menteri
As long as the person is capable and trustworthy.

Another take on the weekend demonstration

Another letter to the editor which caught my attention.

The part that I like:

"As a senior citizen, I can safely say that I have seen more than others.

Nothing much has changed because those with political ambitions always begin their dream in many capacities and they all claim to fight for the people and justice.

But they compromise their ideals and values for their own pursuits. How can they claim the elections are not fair when PAS has been in control of Kelantan for so long?"

I guess the demonstrators feel that their action is the only avenue left to voice out their frustrations with the system. But as the writer said, how did the opposition remain in control of a state for so long? There must be something right as well with the system. We have to acknowledge there are always room for improvement in the way we do things but does the end justify the means?

Illegal gathering

This letter to the editor seems fair comment. Passages that I like:

"Like many ordinary people, I am not passionate about politics. Yes, the rising cost of living does bother me and so are many issues but at the end of the day, I am also appaled at the manner politicians keep claiming to represent me.

Secondly, I am amused by the claims that there have been unfair polls in Malaysia. If that were the case, Kelantan would not be in PAS control for so many terms.

Please be sensitive to the calls of the people on issues like cost of living and crime because they are very relevant.

We do not care for illegal gatherings because they cause hardship and losses to the people."

Well, that seems to sum up my feelings too. Maybe I'm apolitical or too cynical to be bothered. What I have seen so far is that those who get their hands on the reins of power have yet to show a deep empathy for those who need their help.

Until that day comes, I doubt any politician is worth looking up to in my opinion.

Air Asia, another view

For the first time a letter to the editor has given a different take to Air Asia's express boarding policy. This appeared in thestar of 16th October 2007 in response to another letter of 12th October 2007.

But the bottom line as always, is that Air Asia is a business entity. It does not run a charity service. If we are willing to pay good money for full service airlines why can't we fork out that extra ringgit for the express boarding rights? The fares are and will always be lower than the other airlines, so I doubt that extra ringgit would make a dent to the customer's budget.

Astronaut, cosmonaut

In the midst of the euphoria and self congratulatory pronouncements among those who concocted the idea of sending a Malaysian into outer space, should not a moment be spent as well on the plight of those still on the ground. Just look at the 11 October 2007 headlines of NST and The Star .

This land of ours, Malaysia, is blessed with good fortune but unfortunately there are still some who are just trying to eke out a living. I wonder if there has been any concerted effort or think tank on eliminating this part of our social landscape permanently.

If only a portion of the money spent on this space exploration was used instead or simultaneously to implement a programme to eliminate poverty at the lowest levels of the economic ladder, I’m sure this space odyssey could be a double celebration.

But I can only dream.

Loyalty

This letter to the editor which appeared in the Star of 26^th September 2007 speaks louder than words of my own predicament.

"Misplaced loyalty?

I’m writing about the misconception about loyalty. I have been a loyal customer of Bank Simpanan Nasional for at least 10 years and together with my wife we hold numerous accounts with them. As the bank has made the application for credit cards a much simpler process, I tried applying for one. It was very disappointing that my application was rejected.

My loyalty with Maxis is also a point to note. Despite being with the service provider for more than 12 years, it is sad that I’m still being billed RM40 for access fees as well as RM10 for my wife’s supplementary line.

Maybe I’m old-fashioned but loyalty to me means a lot and I’m sure that a lot of people will agree with me.

BERNARD GOMEZ
Kuala Lumpur. "

I like the definition I found in the thefreedictionary - A feeling or attitude of devoted attachment and affection. Often used in the plural: eg, My loyalties lie with my family.

Yes, in this day and age, this trait is an anomaly. A dinosaur age trait incompatible with the three minutes fame ambitions of the general populace. The public are not encouraged to nurture this trait anymore unless there is something to gain by both sides. Often times, it is a one-sided affair. Not a win-win situation. The world has indeed changed. For the better?

Malaysian Malaysia

This news item appeared in the Sun 29th August 2007. I am just speechless.

"Zam accuses theSun of promoting 'Malaysian Malaysia' KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 28, 2007): Information Minister Datuk Seri Zainuddin Maidin said today Gerakan adviser Datuk Seri Dr Lim Keng Yaik's assumption that the Malay and Chinese newspapers favour certain parties and are not fair to all the races was inaccurate.

On the contrary, in many issues, "the Chinese and Malay newspapers are fairer to Malaysia than certain English newspapers.

"To say that theSun newspaper is a champion of Bangsa Malaysia shows that Dr Lim Keng Yaik sympathises with the newspaper which has all this while fought more for (the DAP's) 'Malaysian Malaysia'. "In many issues, theSun newspaper has touched on matters that offend the Malays, including the special rights of the Malays, the New Economic Policy (NEP), the social contract among the races that was agreed upon before Merdeka and also the question of unity in the society," he told a news conference after attending an "Anak-anak Merdeka and Malaysia" gathering in Angkasapuri here today.

(Anak-anak Merdeka are those born on Aug 31, 1957, when the country achieved independence and the Anak Malaysia are those born when Malaysia was formed on Sept 16, 1963.)

Lim, who is Energy, Water and Telecommunications Minister, was quoted as saying in Penang on Sunday (Aug 26) that theSun had used the Malaysian approach compared with the other newspapers, which according to him, were biased towards certain parties.

Zainuddin said the newspaper often blew up issues that contradict the federal constitution besides "publishing statements that oppose and question the government's action to suspend the Makal Osai newspaper recently".

He said the government acted to ensure that every religion was respected and it showed that the government cared about religious sensitivities.

"The Chinese newspapers, which are written and read by the Chinese, do not involve the feelings of the other races but the English language newspapers must be more careful because they are read by all the people," he said.

Zainuddin said theSun had also blown up the issue of the Merdeka Statement, the so-called wish list of the majority of the society which, among others, claimed that racial unity had been fraying at the edges.

"theSun has also published articles which leaked government secrets.They have also blown up the issue of the proposal to repeal the Common Law and published articles rejecting the proposal when it had not been decided whether to implement it," he said.

"I've kept the article. What we considered as discussed in the Cabinet was published by theSun.

"What is theSun up to? Are they fighting for a Malaysian Malaysia? Is this what (Datuk Seri Dr) Lim Keng Yaik says is a newspaper that fights for Bangsa Malaysia?" he asked.

"Bangsa Malaysia must be founded on the social contract, the country's principles of law, not outside this (aspect)," he said, reports Malaysia's national news agency Bernama.

Zainuddin said theSun should be viewed as a newspaper that supports the DAP because it fought for a "Malaysian Malaysia", which is the DAP's objective."

Bribes

This letter to the editor was published in the Star of 27th August 2007.

"Don’t resort to bribery when caught

AN SMS published in The Star on Aug 24 caught my attention. “D figure dat 40% of policemen r corrupt is 2 modest. I am an old man n i’ve never met a policeman who refuses 2 selesai.”

Let's go back to the root cause of bribery and corruption, and how we, the people on the street, contribute to it.

If we obey traffic laws, will the police stop us and issue a summons?

If we follow the law, wear a seat belt, obey the traffic lights, do not use the handphone while driving, do not jump queue, do not speed, and have a valid driving licence and road tax, there will be no reason for the police to issue us summonses.

To those who are stopped for flouting traffic rules, please just accept the summons (because you did wrong), and go pay at the police station.

But most people choose to selesai because they want to save money and time.

Bribing the police when we are at fault and then accusing the police of being corrupt is not the right thing to do.

I suggest that those who keep getting summons, and find it hard to obey traffic rules and laws, stop driving. Either you employ a good driver or use a cab.

I OBEY TRAFFIC RULES,

Kuala Lumpur."

This point of view assumes that we did break the law. But sometimes, don't doubts creep in questioning why we were detained? We have come to a point when the sight of the man in blue conjures images of detention in a jail or at least the dreaded track to the nearest police station.

The man in blue do not represent those who are there to help us in our times of need but someone who wants to take advantage of our misfortunes. There have been countless tales of the callous attitude of those wearing that uniform.

This might be a generalisation, but that is the prevalent feel we have about the entire force. A sad truth.

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.