I was laughing my head off at the barber yesterday while reading this at The Star. Got a few raised eyebrows from the other patrons. Shared the article with another guy sitting next to me, and he laughed as well. Well shows me that that I am not the only one that found this funny.
I’ll reproduce this just in case the link gets deleted after 7 days.
“Sunday November 9, 2008
Don’t get carried away with Obama, says Annuar
KOTA BARU: Kelantan Umno liaison chairman Tan Sri Annuar Musa has urged Malaysians not to get carried away with Barrack Obama, as “we have our own leaders to admire and our issues to resolve”.
“I see people wearing Obama T-shirts. While it is good, let us not get carried away with what happened in other nations.
“I also prefer if people could wear T-shirts bearing Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, soon to be our next Prime Minister and Umno president,” he said at the opening of the Ketereh Umno division delegates meeting yesterday.
Annuar, who was returned unopposed as the division head, said Najib had displayed traits of nationalism of Umno founder Tun Onn Jaafar and the long-term foresight of his late father, Tun Abdul Razak Hussein.”
C’mon, go ahead … laugh your head off. I did … just barely managed to put my head back on after that serious laugh.
Oh puhleeez, it’s not just because I am one of those possibly tagged as “carried away by Obama”, which I may be, that I found that statement funny. But it just points out the fact that Annuar completely lost the point, as he often does. It’s one of those statements that imply if we have more interest in politics of other countries we cease to be patriotic. This is one of those self-righteous crap often yelled at us that really throws us off the local politicos.
To most I’ve talked to, what fascinates us about this year’s Presidential race is due to a couple of possibilities.
Maybe the fact that the United States actually chose whomever they want as President irrespective of “the colour if his skin, but the content of his character” (to paraphrase Martin Luther King). Maybe to some the ‘novelty’ of actually selecting the leader of your country as opposed to someone some party selects as the one to be your leader, is much more attractive and therefore attracts more attention. Maybe due to the fact that the person in question did not have to resort to making money on commissions and kickbacks from contracts to build his ‘war chest’ to campaign for this position, but just from getting ordinary people to believe in him (ultimately to be proven rightly or otherwise). Maybe its due to the fact that what impressed them in the fact that in making this choice, they actually felt good about making that choice, as opposed to making a choice simply because we need to punish the one in power like what we did in March 2008. Maybe it’s due to the fact that banal “support at all cost”, stupid statements are ridiculed over there as opposed to being carried on Page 1 in most mainstreams down here.
Whatever the reason, the biggest mistake UMNO is making is belittling the ‘interest’. In not recognising what is good in a successful campaign, it closes its eyes to what is needed by the citizen of a State. It shuts out what people are really hungry for. Basically, they simply are asking for a chance to make a difference in their lives. Something unfortunately the present leadership (if you can call it that) completely do not understand.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Yes We Can ... Boleh
President-elect Barack Hussein Obama ended his victory speech yesterday with this paragraph:
"This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time - to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth - that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we cant, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people:
“Yes We Can.”
The chant ringing from Grant Park, Chicago yesterday and at all of President-elect Obama’s rallies reminded all and sundry that faith in our own abilities to effect changes actually does bring change that we need.
It is kind of telling that self-confidence is not necessarily always misplaced as often told by those whose lives are spent being cynic and sceptics. I am not a complete optimistic person but sometimes I realised the lack of optimism is the one thing that most of time causes us to fail even before we start.
This picture in the New Straits Times struck me today,
Yes we can was rather interestingly translated as simply Boleh.
I guess then what our former PM, Tun Dr Mahathir was telling us is to have confidence in our abilities to make changes and do what needs to be done. All these years of the opposition making fun of ‘bolehland’ is probably simply a way of sapping our hope and our confidence to make a difference, to make the change that we need to make in our lives, our race and our nation.
We have been told that we cannot make these changes on the status quo, but one of the many things that the Mahathir era has told us, the status quo keeps changing as suited the times. I am not saying everything that was done in those 22 years was right but a large percentage was right for this country at that point in time.
Now is the time to make changes. We can’t allow for things to go the same way ever again. Not if care for our children. If we ever have any doubts, just keep whispering, Yes we can … or better still “memang BOLEH”. After all we had that earlier ... much earlier.
"This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time - to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth - that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we cant, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people:
“Yes We Can.”
The chant ringing from Grant Park, Chicago yesterday and at all of President-elect Obama’s rallies reminded all and sundry that faith in our own abilities to effect changes actually does bring change that we need.
It is kind of telling that self-confidence is not necessarily always misplaced as often told by those whose lives are spent being cynic and sceptics. I am not a complete optimistic person but sometimes I realised the lack of optimism is the one thing that most of time causes us to fail even before we start.
This picture in the New Straits Times struck me today,
Yes we can was rather interestingly translated as simply Boleh.
I guess then what our former PM, Tun Dr Mahathir was telling us is to have confidence in our abilities to make changes and do what needs to be done. All these years of the opposition making fun of ‘bolehland’ is probably simply a way of sapping our hope and our confidence to make a difference, to make the change that we need to make in our lives, our race and our nation.
We have been told that we cannot make these changes on the status quo, but one of the many things that the Mahathir era has told us, the status quo keeps changing as suited the times. I am not saying everything that was done in those 22 years was right but a large percentage was right for this country at that point in time.
Now is the time to make changes. We can’t allow for things to go the same way ever again. Not if care for our children. If we ever have any doubts, just keep whispering, Yes we can … or better still “memang BOLEH”. After all we had that earlier ... much earlier.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Terkenang Raya dulu-dulu
Salam all, after the various sandiwara murah and the 'make you throw up' news and snippets it would be nice to look forward to Raya. This year spending it in Kuala Kangsar is definitely something to look forward to.
It's always a special moment to spend Raya balik kampung. Somehow Raya in KL doesn't feel like Raya all that much. The atmosphere is too sterile. Pergi Masjid pun sebab besar sangat (Shah Alam), I end up catching only a few faces yang selalu jumpa masa tarawikh or those 'kampung-less" crowd or yang kampung dia kat KL (... "hang beranak kat Chow Kit ka" is my usual comment). But as the years go by, the usual faces yang kita selalu nampak kat masjid kampung pun dah makin tak ada. Yang pergi dulu dah tak nampak ... (kalau nampak haru jugak). Member-member yang kalah dengan bini pasal nak raya kat kampung pun tak nampak, come to think of it, ada le dekat bertahun-tahun tak nampak batang hidung depa.
Being melancholy ni macam teringat cerita Abdulla Rafi berHari Raya (karya Abang Mamat Khalid). Rasa macam Abdulla Rafi bila dah tua pulak.
Beraya lepas ke kubur pun dah start to run out of houses nak visit. Dulu kalau balik kubur dengan Tok, ada route compulsory yang kena lalu. Kena pergi rumah kawan2 Tok, adik beradik MakTok, great grand auntie dsb. Bila dah ramai tak ada ... lepas balik kubur ada drop by 3 rumah dah sampai rumah balik.
This might sound cruel, but one of the things I do not miss is budak sekolah Talang datang beraya. Dulu sebab Ayah jadi cikgu kat sana (yang agak popular jugak, if I do say so myself), tak berenti renti budak datang sampai rasa macam kita ni kena ikat kat sinki basuh pinggan. My brother pulak kerja jaga duit raya ... used to be 20sen dah 50 sen by end of 1982 (last raya sebelum belah ke Melbourne). He was good at jaga duit raya ... ingat muka sapa yang datang dua kali.
I have to apologise again to my brother (every Raya ... part ini jadi wajib), for completely finishing his stock of bunga api in 1982 yang dia simpan sebab sayang nak main. Just imagine how I completely finished it playing with my friends from Kulim sebab boring maut malam tu sebelum balik maktab. Nak make it up susah dah sikit sebab takut masuk lokap beli bunga api.
But nothing stays the same ... As it should not anyway. But sometimes ... I just wish a little bit of good old days remains. Maybe it's time to make this memorable for the kids so that they can remember 'their' good old days.
It's always a special moment to spend Raya balik kampung. Somehow Raya in KL doesn't feel like Raya all that much. The atmosphere is too sterile. Pergi Masjid pun sebab besar sangat (Shah Alam), I end up catching only a few faces yang selalu jumpa masa tarawikh or those 'kampung-less" crowd or yang kampung dia kat KL (... "hang beranak kat Chow Kit ka" is my usual comment). But as the years go by, the usual faces yang kita selalu nampak kat masjid kampung pun dah makin tak ada. Yang pergi dulu dah tak nampak ... (kalau nampak haru jugak). Member-member yang kalah dengan bini pasal nak raya kat kampung pun tak nampak, come to think of it, ada le dekat bertahun-tahun tak nampak batang hidung depa.
Being melancholy ni macam teringat cerita Abdulla Rafi berHari Raya (karya Abang Mamat Khalid). Rasa macam Abdulla Rafi bila dah tua pulak.
Beraya lepas ke kubur pun dah start to run out of houses nak visit. Dulu kalau balik kubur dengan Tok, ada route compulsory yang kena lalu. Kena pergi rumah kawan2 Tok, adik beradik MakTok, great grand auntie dsb. Bila dah ramai tak ada ... lepas balik kubur ada drop by 3 rumah dah sampai rumah balik.
This might sound cruel, but one of the things I do not miss is budak sekolah Talang datang beraya. Dulu sebab Ayah jadi cikgu kat sana (yang agak popular jugak, if I do say so myself), tak berenti renti budak datang sampai rasa macam kita ni kena ikat kat sinki basuh pinggan. My brother pulak kerja jaga duit raya ... used to be 20sen dah 50 sen by end of 1982 (last raya sebelum belah ke Melbourne). He was good at jaga duit raya ... ingat muka sapa yang datang dua kali.
I have to apologise again to my brother (every Raya ... part ini jadi wajib), for completely finishing his stock of bunga api in 1982 yang dia simpan sebab sayang nak main. Just imagine how I completely finished it playing with my friends from Kulim sebab boring maut malam tu sebelum balik maktab. Nak make it up susah dah sikit sebab takut masuk lokap beli bunga api.
But nothing stays the same ... As it should not anyway. But sometimes ... I just wish a little bit of good old days remains. Maybe it's time to make this memorable for the kids so that they can remember 'their' good old days.
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
31st August or 16 September ... Why does it matter?
All these talk raised by the recently annointed leader of the PR and the debate that arises ... actually makes my blood rise, and the food that I ate during 'sahur' rise up as well.
On 31st August 1957 the Federated States of Malaya was formed. 11 states in all. We didn't have Sabah, Sarawak, Wilayah Persekutuan (KL, Labuan or Putrajaya) then. Neither did we (or we eventually) have Singapore. But that was the beginning of this independent country and the parliament and the government that forms this country of ours.
Now it can be argued (and incessantly argued until I feel like throwing up...) that Malaysia was not formed until 16 September 1963. Well actually there are other issues as well, the Malaysia that was formed on that date didn't last past 1965 when Singapore left. So do we celebrate the date that Singapore left as the date that Malaysia is truly formed. But what about Wilayah Persekutuan? It wasn't created until 1 February 1970. The citizens of Wilayah would cry foul then. What about WP Labuan and Putrajaya ... don't they count?
The above just demonstrate how silly this argument is. To the leader of the PR, the much looked upon (by you!) united States of America (note the uncapitalised 'u') was declared on 4th July 1776. But there was a war of Independence that went on until 1785 (and actually was started in 1775, when the revolutionaries seized control of these states from the British). Then. there were only 13 colonies (states) that went to form "these united States of America". The other states (some from France, Mexico, Spain) formed the union of 50 states by joining in one by one until the last one on August 21st, 1959 (after Malaysia was independent). That state being the former Republic of Hawaii. Maybe the leader of PR might consider asking his good friend to make 21/8 the National Day of USA.
The operative word in our celebration on 31 August is that it is the National Day / Hari Kebangsaan. Not Independence Day. Why can't we celebrate that day as all our National Day ... irrespective of actual time. It is after all a symbol?
The leader of PR has better things to do than this ... it reeks too much of political grandstanding for votes. Get to work, man!
On 31st August 1957 the Federated States of Malaya was formed. 11 states in all. We didn't have Sabah, Sarawak, Wilayah Persekutuan (KL, Labuan or Putrajaya) then. Neither did we (or we eventually) have Singapore. But that was the beginning of this independent country and the parliament and the government that forms this country of ours.
Now it can be argued (and incessantly argued until I feel like throwing up...) that Malaysia was not formed until 16 September 1963. Well actually there are other issues as well, the Malaysia that was formed on that date didn't last past 1965 when Singapore left. So do we celebrate the date that Singapore left as the date that Malaysia is truly formed. But what about Wilayah Persekutuan? It wasn't created until 1 February 1970. The citizens of Wilayah would cry foul then. What about WP Labuan and Putrajaya ... don't they count?
The above just demonstrate how silly this argument is. To the leader of the PR, the much looked upon (by you!) united States of America (note the uncapitalised 'u') was declared on 4th July 1776. But there was a war of Independence that went on until 1785 (and actually was started in 1775, when the revolutionaries seized control of these states from the British). Then. there were only 13 colonies (states) that went to form "these united States of America". The other states (some from France, Mexico, Spain) formed the union of 50 states by joining in one by one until the last one on August 21st, 1959 (after Malaysia was independent). That state being the former Republic of Hawaii. Maybe the leader of PR might consider asking his good friend to make 21/8 the National Day of USA.
The operative word in our celebration on 31 August is that it is the National Day / Hari Kebangsaan. Not Independence Day. Why can't we celebrate that day as all our National Day ... irrespective of actual time. It is after all a symbol?
The leader of PR has better things to do than this ... it reeks too much of political grandstanding for votes. Get to work, man!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Malaysian Sports
After the deflating moment in Malaysian sports, watching Lee Chong Wei get swept aside, sets me thinking, why countries which are so obscure , dirt poor like Erithrea (which was formerly a state of another dirt poor country) can still win medals?
Malaysians spend more than 100million on sports in this country. With the exception of squash and badminton ... we are not world class in most.
Cant help but think maybe we don't breally care about sports beyond a hobby, and beyond watching. Take or schools as an example.
No one takes the athletics seriously anymore... Sports Day is viewed as a burden and most of the times it's the male teachers' job to handle it. Wonder why ... panas is it? It's no wonder I cant seem to get hold of any male teachers coz inevitably they get sent to the padang. Usually under the excuse that they are not teriffic teachers anyway.
Sports facilities will more often than not fall into disrepair and abandoned at schools due to the fact there is no teacher to supervise a particular sports. We dont even have a dedicated Phys Ed teacher in our schools. So don' be surprise when we are mediocre in our performance.
In football, arguably the most popular of all sports in Malaysia, we have among the most rediculously overfunded and underqualified team and managers in the region. We even shake in our boots against countries like Laos. Myanmar scares the shit out us.
Frankly ever since we had the current president of FAM, the state of Malaysian football has gone in the crapper. No one can stand up. Even the late Presiden of Kedah FA was suspended for voicing out his satisfaction in the football development program. That was despite him being lauded as most successful in building a team from next to nothing.
Maybe Brunei had the right idea, realising they have mediocre team .... didnt submit any name at all.
Malaysians spend more than 100million on sports in this country. With the exception of squash and badminton ... we are not world class in most.
Cant help but think maybe we don't breally care about sports beyond a hobby, and beyond watching. Take or schools as an example.
No one takes the athletics seriously anymore... Sports Day is viewed as a burden and most of the times it's the male teachers' job to handle it. Wonder why ... panas is it? It's no wonder I cant seem to get hold of any male teachers coz inevitably they get sent to the padang. Usually under the excuse that they are not teriffic teachers anyway.
Sports facilities will more often than not fall into disrepair and abandoned at schools due to the fact there is no teacher to supervise a particular sports. We dont even have a dedicated Phys Ed teacher in our schools. So don' be surprise when we are mediocre in our performance.
In football, arguably the most popular of all sports in Malaysia, we have among the most rediculously overfunded and underqualified team and managers in the region. We even shake in our boots against countries like Laos. Myanmar scares the shit out us.
Frankly ever since we had the current president of FAM, the state of Malaysian football has gone in the crapper. No one can stand up. Even the late Presiden of Kedah FA was suspended for voicing out his satisfaction in the football development program. That was despite him being lauded as most successful in building a team from next to nothing.
Maybe Brunei had the right idea, realising they have mediocre team .... didnt submit any name at all.
Friday, August 15, 2008
My daughter in the papers!
My daughter picture came out in Utusan Malaysia yesterday (14/8/08)... under some article about Family projects undertaken by Nural, the company that makes the new NUgrow milk. Taken during the launch where she performed.
Not bad huh ... she's the one in pink... (what else...). The other celebrity in my family other than my brother.
Not bad huh ... she's the one in pink... (what else...). The other celebrity in my family other than my brother.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Malaysians at the Olympics
Seeing Wong Choon Han take out Taufik Hidayat (albeit some said he was just recovering from dengue fever...) was a wonderful moment in badminton. Hoping that Malaysia can go over the next hurdles ... CHINA. Also knowing that Lee Chong Wah & Wong Mei Choo made it through was also exciting.
Was disappointed with Astro coverage of Malaysians at the Olympics. The Archery team was not covered live and Wong Mei Choo's match was not even shown but instead anothe match involving China was shown. Had to resort to seeing the scores tick over in the Olyimpics website, point by point.Some other sports have hardly any major interest is also shown to great detail.
I know Astro are taking feed from the Aussie broadcaster but c'mon ... is it to the extent that we can't even ask to be shown Malaysians in action. Irrespective of how they fare at the very least we can see how the play / fight. That may inspire some of our young to take some of these sports and excel.
Can't wait for squash to be in the Olympics... but with our luck it would likely be when Nicole retired.
Was disappointed with Astro coverage of Malaysians at the Olympics. The Archery team was not covered live and Wong Mei Choo's match was not even shown but instead anothe match involving China was shown. Had to resort to seeing the scores tick over in the Olyimpics website, point by point.Some other sports have hardly any major interest is also shown to great detail.
I know Astro are taking feed from the Aussie broadcaster but c'mon ... is it to the extent that we can't even ask to be shown Malaysians in action. Irrespective of how they fare at the very least we can see how the play / fight. That may inspire some of our young to take some of these sports and excel.
Can't wait for squash to be in the Olympics... but with our luck it would likely be when Nicole retired.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Guts .... some do have it
Looking at what UMNO cawangan Sungai Buloh Country Resort, Bhg Kuala Selangor, approved during their last AGM, I was proud to see that there are UMNO members (at the grassroots level) that have more guts than all of the Majlis Tertinggi put together.
I guess this level of courage is likely to be rare, as most of ahli UMNO prefer jadi lembu dari jadi orang. Especially among the heads of Bahagian and some of the cawangan. It is a pity.
I would ask all those ahli UMNO yang parents nya dulu UMNO, to ask themselves, would their parents, grandparents, great grandparents approve of what they have done to UMNO and the Malay race? How would they answer this question?
Can they sleep well knowing they just condemn this race to mediocrity once again?
Unfortunately for most of us, they can. And we ... nonUMNO members and non political party members suffer greatly for the actions of these bunch of leeches and traitors to the dreams of our Fathers and Mothers.
I guess this level of courage is likely to be rare, as most of ahli UMNO prefer jadi lembu dari jadi orang. Especially among the heads of Bahagian and some of the cawangan. It is a pity.
I would ask all those ahli UMNO yang parents nya dulu UMNO, to ask themselves, would their parents, grandparents, great grandparents approve of what they have done to UMNO and the Malay race? How would they answer this question?
Can they sleep well knowing they just condemn this race to mediocrity once again?
Unfortunately for most of us, they can. And we ... nonUMNO members and non political party members suffer greatly for the actions of these bunch of leeches and traitors to the dreams of our Fathers and Mothers.
Friday, August 08, 2008
Our Politicians: The Absurd and The Ridiculous
Daily I find it practically impossible to read any newspaper. It's all so tainted with complete lack of obejctivity and tinted by the whatever colored glass that the editorial team looks through. No only that, the worst is that no one seems to discuss or report on what is important to most Malaysians as opposed to only those that affects these small obnoxious, self centered, creepy lots called POLITICIANS.
When basic needs are not being met, and when no one seems to care, the ppl will lash out at whoever is seen as the authority. Happened in 1969, in 1997/8 and now. It's not that ppl expects handouts mostly but they do expect the leaders that they select to care more about the ppl than about themselves. Despite the appearance of distrust in politicians Malaysians still go out and vote. just compare the voter turnout percentage in Malaysia compared with US / UK. That in itself kind of implies there is some "trust" that whoever they choose will do their damndest in making things better for them and their children.
The politician work for us, and it not a permanent job, and as Dave said in the movie "Dave) "...it's a temp" job. So if their interested in making this temp job last longer they should be doing great work for their employer, which is us. But most don't think they are.
This goes back to the party system of selecting leaders among them to become our leaders. The party selection system is so fraught with crap that we end up choosing among the various crap that floated through the various party selection system.
Ever since I left UMNO, the only political party I signed on since age 21, I felt liberated. Yet at the same time I felt depressed same as most Malaysians who do not belong to any political party in the 'circus' of the various political parties. These 'leaders' (I am pushing the definition waaay to far on this) do not go pondering beyong their belly button. If they do .. hardly any one of them will be able to sleep. (yet some do sleep very well indeed).
UMNO contains such hilarious bunch of stupid cows, and I say that applies to both men and women, as the men mostly have completely cut off their balls and handed them over to whoever leaders they happen to support.
PAS is concerned about Islam but seems not have a real idea of true Islam. All skin and no heart kind of situation.
PKR is about Anwar, still is despite being put in power in one of teh richest state in teh country, and still sitting on their ass not making a difference even in the state.
DAP seems to start well but instead of moving on their own program, seems intent on revenge on the MCA/GERAKAN predecessors rather than focusing on their job.
MCA/GERAKAN/MIC .... I havent figured what they are trying to do ... and generally most of their members are clueless as well.
So my recommendation. ABOLISH ALL PARTIES! Elect our PM and DPM ... forget about the parliamentary system. Let's go back to Ancient Greek based democracy. Ha ha (only half joking). But seriously ... if the way leaders are selected is faulty, let's change that. Why not ... it's our country isn't it ... well ... actually I'm not too sure about that anymore. Some of our leaders might have sold us off without us knowing.
Stay amazing!
When basic needs are not being met, and when no one seems to care, the ppl will lash out at whoever is seen as the authority. Happened in 1969, in 1997/8 and now. It's not that ppl expects handouts mostly but they do expect the leaders that they select to care more about the ppl than about themselves. Despite the appearance of distrust in politicians Malaysians still go out and vote. just compare the voter turnout percentage in Malaysia compared with US / UK. That in itself kind of implies there is some "trust" that whoever they choose will do their damndest in making things better for them and their children.
The politician work for us, and it not a permanent job, and as Dave said in the movie "Dave) "...it's a temp" job. So if their interested in making this temp job last longer they should be doing great work for their employer, which is us. But most don't think they are.
This goes back to the party system of selecting leaders among them to become our leaders. The party selection system is so fraught with crap that we end up choosing among the various crap that floated through the various party selection system.
Ever since I left UMNO, the only political party I signed on since age 21, I felt liberated. Yet at the same time I felt depressed same as most Malaysians who do not belong to any political party in the 'circus' of the various political parties. These 'leaders' (I am pushing the definition waaay to far on this) do not go pondering beyong their belly button. If they do .. hardly any one of them will be able to sleep. (yet some do sleep very well indeed).
UMNO contains such hilarious bunch of stupid cows, and I say that applies to both men and women, as the men mostly have completely cut off their balls and handed them over to whoever leaders they happen to support.
PAS is concerned about Islam but seems not have a real idea of true Islam. All skin and no heart kind of situation.
PKR is about Anwar, still is despite being put in power in one of teh richest state in teh country, and still sitting on their ass not making a difference even in the state.
DAP seems to start well but instead of moving on their own program, seems intent on revenge on the MCA/GERAKAN predecessors rather than focusing on their job.
MCA/GERAKAN/MIC .... I havent figured what they are trying to do ... and generally most of their members are clueless as well.
So my recommendation. ABOLISH ALL PARTIES! Elect our PM and DPM ... forget about the parliamentary system. Let's go back to Ancient Greek based democracy. Ha ha (only half joking). But seriously ... if the way leaders are selected is faulty, let's change that. Why not ... it's our country isn't it ... well ... actually I'm not too sure about that anymore. Some of our leaders might have sold us off without us knowing.
Stay amazing!
Thursday, August 07, 2008
An Amazing Country
Inspired by this article by Garrison Keillor
Malaysia is such an amazing country.
It's an amazing country that we continue to be blind to what's important but is focused on the trivialities. It's amazing that a leader which is totally clueless continues to get support from the
party that he brought down to its knees while at the same time attacking his predecessor. It's an amazing party that sees greatness in their leader that is 'much appreciated by the opposition (maybe not for long).
It's an amazing country that those entrusted to make changes they have been saying they will make when they are voted in power; in fact does precisely nothing substantial or any different.
It's an amazing country that leaders who obviously have enemies of Islam supporting him are supported by muslims themselves as saviour. Moreover having someone who have been proven to practise deviant acts to be lauded as an example of Muslim leadership.
It's an amazing country, that we allow roads to fall on our head but we're more worried about the traffic jam caused by closure.
It's an amazing country when today traffic jams was a result of roadblocks to identify supporters (how the heck were they going to do that... ?) of someone going to court to be charged on some deviant act. It's amazing that they believe the guy after so many lies told.
It's an amazing country when you invite former leader who is proven to be a liar that causes deaths and war to come to this country to talk about rule of law. It's further amazing that we actually send soldiers to this former colonial master to guard their Queen and consider it an honor. Should have been the other way around.
Good luck to this amazing country .... YOU never cease to amaze me.... (THAT is not a compliment)
Monday, June 09, 2008
Alternative Energy x-Prize
Comments made at Tun's page as well.
The recent increase in petrol / diesel prices and re-structuring of the oil prices have left most reeling with shock. Even though expected, Malaysians being largely insulated from the petrol price increase in other countries took it for granted that we will be continuously protected. Kind of foolish perception on our part.
But the thing is the most important crisis in this time will not go away so long as the energy demand stays. So why havent everyone been talking about the most obvious? Alternative energy sources?
Can Malaysia take a lead in getting the research for alternative energy source instead of saying it's someone else's problem. No one is willing to take the lead. Why not try something like what the Ansari X Prize did in getting private commercial space flight a reality?
This is what I suggest.
Malaysia take the lead and offer to buy alternative non fossil fuel technology from any inventor for EUR 1billion (since we cant trust dollars). Frankly we probably wont have to pay up as I am sure that other countries (see Japan / China) will up the ante to a couple more billion.
Either that or Malaysia lead in setting up the alternative Energy prize. Other countries can contribute and the intellectual property for the invention once bought from the inventor will be set on the world as free to download and use. Freeware!
How's that for having a role in saving the mankind from its excesses. For sure world recognition.
Would Malaysian leaders have the courage to do this? The need is obvious but the courage to execute is always lacking.
The recent increase in petrol / diesel prices and re-structuring of the oil prices have left most reeling with shock. Even though expected, Malaysians being largely insulated from the petrol price increase in other countries took it for granted that we will be continuously protected. Kind of foolish perception on our part.
But the thing is the most important crisis in this time will not go away so long as the energy demand stays. So why havent everyone been talking about the most obvious? Alternative energy sources?
Can Malaysia take a lead in getting the research for alternative energy source instead of saying it's someone else's problem. No one is willing to take the lead. Why not try something like what the Ansari X Prize did in getting private commercial space flight a reality?
This is what I suggest.
Malaysia take the lead and offer to buy alternative non fossil fuel technology from any inventor for EUR 1billion (since we cant trust dollars). Frankly we probably wont have to pay up as I am sure that other countries (see Japan / China) will up the ante to a couple more billion.
Either that or Malaysia lead in setting up the alternative Energy prize. Other countries can contribute and the intellectual property for the invention once bought from the inventor will be set on the world as free to download and use. Freeware!
How's that for having a role in saving the mankind from its excesses. For sure world recognition.
Would Malaysian leaders have the courage to do this? The need is obvious but the courage to execute is always lacking.
Friday, April 11, 2008
TDM facebook page deleted!
The facebook page for the fans of the Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed this morning. The page have been gathering support and I pointed out once that Tun was ranked at no 17 (as at this morning no 14) out of all politician facebook page topped by Barack Obama. He was the only Asian in the top 20 and his facebook fan page only started about a couple of weeks ago.
Facebook's admin comments was this:-
"Hello,
You created a Page that has violated our Terms of Use, and this Page has been removed. Facebook Pages are special profiles used solely for commercial, political, or charitable purposes. Among other things, Pages that are hateful, threatening, or obscene are not allowed. We also take down Pages that attack an individual or group, or that are set up by an unauthorized individual. Continued misuse of Facebook's features could result in your account being disabled.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can visit the Terms applicable to Facebook Pages at http://www.facebook.com/terms_pages.php. "
You created a Page that has violated our Terms of Use, and this Page has been removed. Facebook Pages are special profiles used solely for commercial, political, or charitable purposes. Among other things, Pages that are hateful, threatening, or obscene are not allowed. We also take down Pages that attack an individual or group, or that are set up by an unauthorized individual. Continued misuse of Facebook's features could result in your account being disabled.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can visit the Terms applicable to Facebook Pages at http://www.facebook.com/terms_pages.php. "
One of the ways the facebook can be deleted if there are complaints made that the page is abusive etc. It's cyber-terrorism or just plain hate ... no one knows.
But honestly .... I have followed all of the discussions in facebook and have not notice a single vulgar word or message of hate. Some complaints have been saying that Tun is a tyrant. I really would like to facebook doing that to George W Bush's page.
Compared to mykmu.net ... Tun's facebook page can simpley be called tame!
Many theories ... ranging from domestic enemies of Tun to possibly those who are uncomfortable with his message about doing the right thing and his exposure during the OIC 2003 that is still being quoted as being anti-semitic.
facebook is about to learn something next couple of days ... something interesting. Just hope they learn from it.
Even as we speak ... new Tun's fan site (unfortunately tagged as celebrities / public figure) has popped up .... Try going there and see how long we last ... even if that gets shut down the spirit will never die.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Cadangan Usul UMNO - Merubah sistem pemilihan
Ini adalah cadangan usul yang saya minta mana-mana ahli UMNO yang ingin nak bawa di peringkat cawangan dan bahagian untuk gunakan jika dirasakan sesuai.
Saya telah menyuarakan ini di Forum Pasca PRU 12 - Peniliaian yang diadakan pada 1 April 2008 di Petaling Jaya.
Online Petition pun disediakan
Walaupun tidak begitu spesifik ini adalah peringkat pertama dalam inisiatif ini. Untuk megwujudkan kesedaran dikalangan ahli dan penerimaan konsep di kalangan ahli.
UPDATED VERSION 8 March 2008
==========================
Saya telah menyuarakan ini di Forum Pasca PRU 12 - Peniliaian yang diadakan pada 1 April 2008 di Petaling Jaya.
Online Petition pun disediakan
Walaupun tidak begitu spesifik ini adalah peringkat pertama dalam inisiatif ini. Untuk megwujudkan kesedaran dikalangan ahli dan penerimaan konsep di kalangan ahli.
UPDATED VERSION 8 March 2008
==========================
28 MAC 2008
CADANGAN USUL UMNO CAWANGAN
CAWANGAN :
BAHAGIAN :
KEPIMPINAN BERCOGANKAN BERSATU – BERSETIA - BERKHIDMAT
USUL:-Dengan ini, Kami, menyedari bahawa berdirinya kami di tahap ini adalah hasil gigih usaha kerajaan BN dan UMNO khususnya, maka usul ini kami bentangkan atas perasaan menghargai usaha dan jasa pucuk pimpinan sebelum ini yang telah ‘melahirkan’ kami. Pemilihan untuk memastikan kita akan mempunyai kepimpinan selaras dengan cogan kata keramat BERSATU-BERSETIA-BERKHIDMAT amat diperlukan untuk meniup nafas baru ke dalam UMNO. Kami berdoa dan berharap agar suara semua ahli UMNO tanpa mengira peringkat tidak dipinggirkan.
Sejajar dengan hak ahli yang dimeterai dalam Fasal 6.2.2 Perlembagaan UMNO menjamin hak bagi Ahli UMNO untuk “memilih, dipilih dan dilantik untuk sebarang jawatan di dalam parti”, maka dengan ini, kami mencadangkan usul supaya pindaan perlembagaan UMNO dan juga tatacara yang berkaitan dengan pemilihan dilakukan dalam tempoh yang terdekat ini, dan dengan itu membolehkan ahli UMNO memilih pemimpin mereka di bahagian dan seterusnya di peringkat Majlis Tertinggi UMNO, secara terus. Proses ini hendaklah sempurna untuk dilaksanakan menjelang tahun 2010.
Asas Usul:-
Pilihanraya Umum 12 telah memberi maklum balas yang jelas bahawa satu anjakan ketara dan drastik telah berlaku dalam hati dan minda rakyat Malaysia. Tema yang asyik panas diketengahkan di kebanyakan negeri tika ini, adalah betapa rakyat Malaysia telah bosan dengan mainan politik Barisan Nasional dan parti-parti komponennya. Fakta menunjukkan bahawa jentera pilihanraya BN (yang sebelum ini digeruni) gagal menelah “Mood swing” para pengundi, satu petanda jelas peri tidak pekanya BN tentang realiti persekitarannya. Akibat kegagalan ini BN terpaksa berhadapan dengan beban kesan ketara dan negatif yang perlu digalasnya.
Lantaran itu, sudah tibalah waktu dan ketikanya bagi UMNO selaku parti induk BN, untuk membuktikan keupayaannya bertindak balas dan mengambil iktibar dari keputusan tersebut untuk ‘mencipta semula’ (re-invent) BN,dalam kadar segera.
Pucuk pimpinan komponen lain telah berundur dari Kabinet kerana ingin menumpukan perhatian dan masa mereka sepenuhnya kepada proses cipta-semula parti masing-masing. Komitmen dan kesungguhan pucuk pimpinan MCA dalam proses cipta-semula ini, jelas terserlah melalui kesediaan mereka untuk meneruskan proses pemilihan pimpinan tahun ini, meskipun mereka berdepan dengan ‘malapetaka’ yang hampir pasti memunahkan mereka . AlhamduLillah, UMNO juga turut meneruskan pemilihan di semua peringkat pada tahun ini. Namun dalam pada itu, kita harus sedah bahawa salah satu punca yang dikatakan menjadi penyebab kekalahan tersebut ialah isu kepincangan kepimpinan.
Acap kali terusainya proses pemilihan kepimpinan UMNO, suara-suara ahli UMNO yang ‘terkejut’ dengan keputusannya,menjadi sesuatu yang hampir wajib didengari, seolah-olah keputusan yang tercapai tidak mencerminkan keinginan sebenar ahli akar umbi. Malah proses pencalonan dan cadangan untuk bahagian dan Majlis Tertinggi UMNO seolah-olah telah di rancang dan diputuskan oleh kepimpinan cawangan. Lantaran itu, demi kejayaan proses 'cipta semula' ini, soalan yang wajib dijawab adalah: mungkinkah sistem pemilihan pemimpin ini sendiri menjadi salah satu punca kepincangan ini.
Mungkinkah pemilihan yang perlu melalui proses saringan di beberapa peringkat ini, menjadi punca utama kepincangan yang kita alami tika ini?
Seperti yang kita tahu, UMNO mempunyai empat peringkat pentadbiran, PUSAT, PERHUBUNGAN (negeri dan wilayah), BAHAGIAN dan CAWANGAN. Pemilihan cuma diadakan di peringkat PUSAT, BAHAGIAN dan CAWANGAN dan tidak di peringkat PERHUBUNGAN.
Peringkat Pertama – Ahli UMNO cawangan memilih perwakilan untuk menghadiri mesyuarat agung Bahagian, iaitu tidak melebihi 5 wakil daripada setiap cawangan. (Fasal 14.4.4 dan 17.5.6)
Peringkat Kedua – Perwakilan yang dipilih termasuk ketua cawangan berhak memilih perwakilan bahagian ke mesyuarat agung tahunan UMNO (Fasal 14.5.2) dan mencadangkan calon MT (Fasal 14.5.4) . Berdasarkan perlembagaan UMNO, wakil dipilih oleh Perwakilan Tahunan Bahagian, iaitu seorang wakil bagi tiap-tiap lima ratus orang ahli tetapi tidak melebihi tujuh orang daripada sesuatu Bahagian. Ini tidak termasuk Ketua, Timbalan Ketua, Naib Ketua, Ketua Pergerakan Pemuda, Ketua Pergerakan Wanita dan Ketua Pergerakan Puteri Bahagian.
Peringkat Ketiga – Perwakilan ke MAT memilih Ahli Majlis Tertinggi UMNO yang hadir. Selain daripada perwakilan bahagian tadi, Pengerusi dan Timbalan Pengerusi, Ahli Majlis Tertinggi dan perwakilan pergerakan Wanita, Pemuda dan Puteri juga hadir.
Lazimnya proses pemeringkatan dan penapisan dalam industri menghasilkan produk yang lebih tinggi kualitinya, seperti yang berlaku dalam pemerosesan kelapa sawit. Malangnya ‘pemeringkatan’ perwakilan dan penapisan keinginan ahli untuk memilih pucuk pimpinan tidak semestinya memastikan peningkatan kualiti. Bahkan, yang nyata berlaku adalah yang sebaliknya, kerana keinginan ahli hampir selalu tak kesampaian.
Mesyuarat Agung Tahunan menyaksikan lebih kurang 2200 ahli UMNO memilih Ahli Majlis Tertinggi. Daftar ahli UMNO terkini menunjukkan ahli berjumlah kira-kira 3.2 juta. Justeru itu, setiap seorang daripada perwakilan yang berjaya ke Mesyuarat Agung Tahunan ini memikul di atas bahu mereka, amanah dan harapan milik hampir 1400 ahli yang tidak terpilih untuk menghadiri acara kemuncak tahunan ini. Dengan yang demikian, jika dinyatakan dalam bentuk peratusan, hanya 0.07% ahli UMNO berpeluang dan bertanggungjawab untuk memilih ahli MT ini. Malangnya juga 2200 adalah satu angka yang kecil, bahkan terlalu kecil yang memudahkan calon MT untuk ‘berjumpa’ dan ‘berbincang’ dengan mereka. Suatu angka yang cukup kecil untuk ‘dipengaruhi’.
Bukankah kita sering mendengar betapa politik wang begitu berbahaya hingga mampu menghancurkan parti? Namun, bukankah proses pemilihan MT yang kita bina dengan tangan kita sendiri ini, memudahkan politik wang? Cuba bayangkan, berapa agaknya bilangan perwakilan di peringkat 190 bahagian yang ada. Bukankah ia satu angka yang hampir mencecah 25,000? Dan bayangkan pula jika angka tersebut satu angka sebesar 3.2 juta ahli UMNO yang ada. Bukankah ini bakal menyukarkan proses ‘mempengaruhi’ dan ‘berbincang’, yang dinyatakan tadi? Nyata lebih mudah ‘berkempen’ kepada 2200 orang berbanding 3.2 juta ahli.
Alasan serampang dua mata yang sering digunakan untuk mempertahankan sistem pemilihan ahli MT yang sedia ada ini adalah
a) Ahli tidak mengenal calon. Bukan kerana mereka tidak mahu, namun calon sering tidak mendekati mereka kecuali semasa pemilihan.
b) Masa pemilihan agak singkat maka calon hanya mampu berjumpa ahli perwakilan sahaja. Mereka tiada masa untuk menemui ahli biasa.
Sebenarnya ada cara terbaik untuk memastikan yang calon bahagian atau MT dikenali oleh ahli biasa. Cara ini adalah satu proses yang dipanggil “BERKHIDMAT”. Satu proses yang memerlukan calon menyingsing lengan dan mengerah tenaga, yang rata-rata tidak popular dan agak sukar dilaksanakan, namun terbukti kaedah terbaik untuk memastikan yang ahli mengenali calon.
Pemilihan bukan sahaja masa untuk ahli menunjukkan kesetiaan kepada pemimpin, bahkan inilah peluang bagi pemimpin untuk menunjukkan kesetiaannya kepada ahli. Ahli akan memilih calon yang BERSETIA kepada mereka sebagai ahli parti, dan kepada prinsip parti. Ini bermakna calon hendaklah daripada kalangan mereka yang mendukung prinsip dan perjuangan, bukan sekadar ucapan dan retorik kosong, bahkan mampu menzahirkan kata-katanya melalui amalan.
Dengan pemilihan secara lebih terbuka ini, bolehlah kita memilih tanpa perlu berkempen dengan terlalu hebat dan dahsyat seperti yang telah menjadi resam dalam setiap pemilihan selama ini. Maka lontaran fitnah, kata-kata nista, mahupun lontaran ‘hadiah’ juga dapat dikurangkan. Ini kerana calon sudah dikenali dan 'dicintai’ melalui Khidmat yang telah mereka hulurkan. Tiada jalan lain untuk memastikan yang ahli akan memberi kesetiaan kepada pemimpin, melainkan pemimpin terlebih dahulu membuktikan kesetiaan kepada ahli dengan mencurahkan bakti kepada mereka. Kurangnya rasa sedih, marah dalam kalangan ahli semasa peringkat pemilihan akan membuahkah natijah yang cukup manis, iaitu BERSATU.
Inilah yang kita impikan; KETIGA-TIGA COGANKATA UMNO DIREALISASIKAN, dan tidak sekadar menjadi nyanyian dalam majlis-majlis UMNO.
Dari segi logistik, memang sukar untuk memastikan semua ahli UMNO mengundi. Namun bukankah sudah menjadi resam bahawa sesuatu yang berharga itu, lebih sukar diperolehi? Yang jelas dan pasti, menidakkan dan meminggirkan hasrat ahli UMNO menjadi satu penyebab parti menjadi lemah dan bukti paling mutakhir telah pun dapat kita saksikan melalui kepincangan prestasi BN dalam PRU12 tempoh hari.
Yang lebih utama, kita harus menyedari bahawa aspek politik yang membawa kepada penyatuan ini, jauh lebih agung daripada karenah yang telah memecah belahkan kita. Cukuplah dengan hanya beberapa insan sahaja yang benar-benar yakin dengan realiti ini, dan atas keyakinan luhur ini, mengorak langkah untuk melakukan sesuatu untuk memperkasakan parti UMNO yang kita cintai. Meskipun kita mungkin tidak dapat menyelesaikan semua masalah, namun kita hampir pasti dapat menggerakkan sesuatu yang bakal memberi makna yang cukup mendalam untuk kita semua.
Dalam pilihanraya Umum Ke-12, UMNO telah menerima kejutan hebat, satu ‘wake-up call’, untuk bangun dari tidur yang lena, . Janganlah kita menghulurkan tangan untuk menekan butang Lelap (‘Snooze’) pula.
Sesuatu yang kita bina daripada rasa cinta adalah sesuatu yang pastinya lebih kekal dan bermakna. Umpama ibadat yang dilaksanakan atas dasar cinta kepada Allah swt, sudah pastilah lebih mendalam kesannya berbanding yang dilakukan kerana takut kepadaNya mahupun atas rasa benci terhadap agama lain. InsyaAllah usaha kita yang lahir daripada rasa cinta kepada agama, bangsa dan negara, yang ikhlas dan bebas daripada rasa benci dan dendam kesumat ini akan berkekalan, dan diredhai.
InsyaAllah
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Get Something Meaningful Done
In case you guys start giving up on politics, I'm sharing this passage from Barack Obama's book titled the 'Audacity of Hope'.
“... And then: “You seem like a nice enough guy. Why do you want to go into something dirty and nasty like politics?”
"I was familiar with the question, a variant on the questions asked of me years earlier, when I’d first arrived in Chicago to work in low-income neighborhoods. It signaled a cynicism not simply with politics but with the very notion of a public life, a cynicism that ... had been nourished by a generation of broken promises. In response, I would usually smile and nod and say that I understood the skepticism, but that there was—and always had been—another tradition to politics, a tradition that stretched from the days of the country’s founding to the glory of the civil rights movement, a tradition based on the simple idea that we have a stake in one another, and that what binds us together is greater than what drives us apart, and that if enough people believe in the truth of that proposition and act on it, then we might not solve every problem, but we can get something meaningful done.”
So lets us get something meaningful done. Believe in the change.
PS : It such an amazing book. He's not perfect (as no one is) but he writes something really amazing ...
“... And then: “You seem like a nice enough guy. Why do you want to go into something dirty and nasty like politics?”
"I was familiar with the question, a variant on the questions asked of me years earlier, when I’d first arrived in Chicago to work in low-income neighborhoods. It signaled a cynicism not simply with politics but with the very notion of a public life, a cynicism that ... had been nourished by a generation of broken promises. In response, I would usually smile and nod and say that I understood the skepticism, but that there was—and always had been—another tradition to politics, a tradition that stretched from the days of the country’s founding to the glory of the civil rights movement, a tradition based on the simple idea that we have a stake in one another, and that what binds us together is greater than what drives us apart, and that if enough people believe in the truth of that proposition and act on it, then we might not solve every problem, but we can get something meaningful done.”
So lets us get something meaningful done. Believe in the change.
PS : It such an amazing book. He's not perfect (as no one is) but he writes something really amazing ...
Sunday, March 16, 2008
It took guts!
Datuk Mukhriz did what no leader in UMNO dared to do but hoped someone would do it anyway.
All the 'dogs' in UMNO is trying to kill him off, There's an online petition on this
If you believe that Mukhriz Mahathir did the right thing to write to the PM and ask him to step down, not for doing badly in the GE but for daring the People to defy him when they took on the streets to express their unhappiness [read Mukhriz's letter here], click the link below and put down your name and numbers.
Petition Against Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
Not enough signatures have been collected. Mine is No 278.
All the 'dogs' in UMNO is trying to kill him off, There's an online petition on this
If you believe that Mukhriz Mahathir did the right thing to write to the PM and ask him to step down, not for doing badly in the GE but for daring the People to defy him when they took on the streets to express their unhappiness [read Mukhriz's letter here], click the link below and put down your name and numbers.
Petition Against Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
Not enough signatures have been collected. Mine is No 278.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
What now Malaysia?
Salam all,
I've rarely written about politics … maybe coz I am too disgusted. But I don't want my kids to live in a world in which all hope is lost. Because with Hope we can make things Real.
A couple of things can happen ...
1) In UMNO / MCA / MIC ... if there are some people with guts carrying the torch ... there will be those coming in to change the party ... Only a revolution the likes of which has happened to the country can happen. Make no mistake this is a revolution, the one in which six (no not a mistake .. I also count Wilayah) states / areas have voted BN out.
2) It will be BAU (Business as usual) for BN especially UMNO since they couldn't even have the guts to speak their mind with exception of Mukhriz, Ku Li and Shahrir Samad. If no one speaks and the butt kissing (forgive my language) and butt covering (sorry again) continues ... then the other 6 states will fall in PRU13.
3) Race politics perhaps is being shown the door. While meritocracy is being lauded, we cannot become like soul-less Singapore. I believe that NO ONE SHOULD BE LEFT BEHIND (just like Navy Seals) unless by their own choice.
4) BA might actually work. If most of BA starts to move away from extreme left or extreme right this might work. They have oversight and chance to do what they never able to do in the past ... form Shadow Government. A shadow minister and shadow deputy minister for EVERY ministry making sure each ministry is watched carefully. Then things might actually get better.
4) BA might actually disintegrate. They might find working together tougher and make a mess of things ... Then PRU13 will see BN coming back like PRU11 saw BN recovering Terengganu.
There are questions whether Pak lah should resign… Even call by Tun himself. Also about who's next. However I cant agree with TDM that Najib should be the one. Something about that just doesnt ring true. One thing about Tun ... a good leader but he one big flaw ... keep placing his trust of ppl who turned out to be creeps.
When Lim Guan Eng was asked whether he thinks Pak lah should step down, he paused for a long time before saying, "It's up to UMNO to decide". I don't think any PAS/PKR/DAP wants Pak Lah to resign ... he's the best thing that happened to them ever. It's easy to campaign if Pak Lah is around... they can say, "if you dont vote for PAS/PKR/DAP ... you get Pak Lah and KJ". They can't use Samy as a bogeyman now ... PakLah - KJ fits the profile.
Unfortunately for BN ... they don't admit that.
I don't know about other party. So cant speak for them but I think UMNO needs a real revolution. This wake up call needs a follow through action. An action that will stump the crap out of them.
This UMNO election in 2008, someone with guts must stand up and be the icon. At this stage ... seek out at grassroot level for them to select the right people at Bahagian and as representatives to the UMNO assembly. The grassroots that have been made fools in the past must wise up.
In the past members only select their branch AJK and delegates to the Division meeting. Division meeting attendees then selects those going to KL for UMNO election. These 2000 plus delegates selects who heads UMNO. So ... basically easy thing to pay off 2000 ppl (even 1000 enuf already
I had this idea long time ago (in 2000) right after Mat Taib/ Najib got re-elected as Naib Presiden UMNO. I got fairly disgusted and began typing away this proposal. BTW I had this idea way before some leaders starts spouting it in the papers.:-
What if UMNO practise this:
Members (all of them) choose not only their AJK cawangan but their ketua bahagian and delegates to UMNO central. Maybe even up to all members choose the Presiden and UMNO MT. Then UMNO will practice democracy. Now, they are saying that ordinary members ni bodoh sangat and tak tahu who to vote for. "So let us yang dah biasa hobnobbing dengan org besar2 ni pilih pemimpin". Crap!
There will be too many people to pay off… so money politics become not viable. To top it off they actually have to WORK to be recognised.
I hope I see before I die ... I hope my kids live the kind of life I hope they would be happy and safe in.
UMNO members ... take heed for this year's UMNO election, if the rest of the country can move mountains, so can YOU!
I've rarely written about politics … maybe coz I am too disgusted. But I don't want my kids to live in a world in which all hope is lost. Because with Hope we can make things Real.
A couple of things can happen ...
1) In UMNO / MCA / MIC ... if there are some people with guts carrying the torch ... there will be those coming in to change the party ... Only a revolution the likes of which has happened to the country can happen. Make no mistake this is a revolution, the one in which six (no not a mistake .. I also count Wilayah) states / areas have voted BN out.
2) It will be BAU (Business as usual) for BN especially UMNO since they couldn't even have the guts to speak their mind with exception of Mukhriz, Ku Li and Shahrir Samad. If no one speaks and the butt kissing (forgive my language) and butt covering (sorry again) continues ... then the other 6 states will fall in PRU13.
3) Race politics perhaps is being shown the door. While meritocracy is being lauded, we cannot become like soul-less Singapore. I believe that NO ONE SHOULD BE LEFT BEHIND (just like Navy Seals) unless by their own choice.
4) BA might actually work. If most of BA starts to move away from extreme left or extreme right this might work. They have oversight and chance to do what they never able to do in the past ... form Shadow Government. A shadow minister and shadow deputy minister for EVERY ministry making sure each ministry is watched carefully. Then things might actually get better.
4) BA might actually disintegrate. They might find working together tougher and make a mess of things ... Then PRU13 will see BN coming back like PRU11 saw BN recovering Terengganu.
There are questions whether Pak lah should resign… Even call by Tun himself. Also about who's next. However I cant agree with TDM that Najib should be the one. Something about that just doesnt ring true. One thing about Tun ... a good leader but he one big flaw ... keep placing his trust of ppl who turned out to be creeps.
When Lim Guan Eng was asked whether he thinks Pak lah should step down, he paused for a long time before saying, "It's up to UMNO to decide". I don't think any PAS/PKR/DAP wants Pak Lah to resign ... he's the best thing that happened to them ever. It's easy to campaign if Pak Lah is around... they can say, "if you dont vote for PAS/PKR/DAP ... you get Pak Lah and KJ". They can't use Samy as a bogeyman now ... PakLah - KJ fits the profile.
Unfortunately for BN ... they don't admit that.
I don't know about other party. So cant speak for them but I think UMNO needs a real revolution. This wake up call needs a follow through action. An action that will stump the crap out of them.
This UMNO election in 2008, someone with guts must stand up and be the icon. At this stage ... seek out at grassroot level for them to select the right people at Bahagian and as representatives to the UMNO assembly. The grassroots that have been made fools in the past must wise up.
In the past members only select their branch AJK and delegates to the Division meeting. Division meeting attendees then selects those going to KL for UMNO election. These 2000 plus delegates selects who heads UMNO. So ... basically easy thing to pay off 2000 ppl (even 1000 enuf already
I had this idea long time ago (in 2000) right after Mat Taib/ Najib got re-elected as Naib Presiden UMNO. I got fairly disgusted and began typing away this proposal. BTW I had this idea way before some leaders starts spouting it in the papers.:-
What if UMNO practise this:
Members (all of them) choose not only their AJK cawangan but their ketua bahagian and delegates to UMNO central. Maybe even up to all members choose the Presiden and UMNO MT. Then UMNO will practice democracy. Now, they are saying that ordinary members ni bodoh sangat and tak tahu who to vote for. "So let us yang dah biasa hobnobbing dengan org besar2 ni pilih pemimpin". Crap!
There will be too many people to pay off… so money politics become not viable. To top it off they actually have to WORK to be recognised.
I hope I see before I die ... I hope my kids live the kind of life I hope they would be happy and safe in.
UMNO members ... take heed for this year's UMNO election, if the rest of the country can move mountains, so can YOU!
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Depression... don't hang around!
I read this wonderful new site that I have simply got to share
Creating Passionate User
which I found was so full of wonderful writeups that make you think ... naturally of course since it's by people who are passionate about brains, minds and science.
But I especially like this particular article...
Angry/negative people can be bad for your brain
It's no wonder I have been depressed, I have hanging around with with depressing people. Only time I have not been depressed is when I am back with my family and when I am with my MRSM Kulim bro and sis.
It's got to do with these stuff in our brain that causes us to empathise ... interesting stuff
So the trick now is to find those less depressing people to hang around with. ... okay that's going to be hard where I work ... hmmm ... there's one ... err nope ... that guy is on the verge of jumping out of the window...
Well got to look harder now...
Creating Passionate User
which I found was so full of wonderful writeups that make you think ... naturally of course since it's by people who are passionate about brains, minds and science.
But I especially like this particular article...
Angry/negative people can be bad for your brain
It's no wonder I have been depressed, I have hanging around with with depressing people. Only time I have not been depressed is when I am back with my family and when I am with my MRSM Kulim bro and sis.
It's got to do with these stuff in our brain that causes us to empathise ... interesting stuff
So the trick now is to find those less depressing people to hang around with. ... okay that's going to be hard where I work ... hmmm ... there's one ... err nope ... that guy is on the verge of jumping out of the window...
Well got to look harder now...
Monday, February 25, 2008
The False Democracy of Globalisation
Whew ... that was a serious looking topic.
I guess this must have struck many people but I have yet to read it like this yet :-
Democracy is a process by which the MAJORITY elects the winner and their leaders.
Globalisation (more the Wall Street Globalisation) is a process by which the FEW rich countries/individuals/corporates win by pure might of wealth over the majority.
So it is puzzling then why the supposed democratic government of the west supports globalisation religiously. And the wierdest thing is that the among the majority that suffers is the working people in the supposedly rich western countries. See issue in the Democratic primary in Ohio in 2008 and how Bill Clinton's NAFTA is boomeranging back on Hillary Clinton.
Increasingly we see governments giving the ARTIFICIAL and VIRTUAL corporate citizens ample way and leeway to make more money (or they call it increasing shareholder's value) by making the majority suffers.
Consider this, if your own citizen are expensive ('not competitive') find someone else who is. Likely that someone else is poorer and need it more and thus will be willing to do it cheaper of course. But the thing is the cycle doesn't end there ... they will go on and still search for cheaper places/people.
Somewhere down the line we've forgotten about increasing human value in life but about "increasing shareholders value". "Increasing shareholders value" means so little to those who is living from one paycheck to another to keep everyone in his/her family from starvation / lack of education / homelessness.
Democratic election counts for nothing much when if we choose those who will then 'elect' the rich minority over the 'barely surviving' majority.
I guess this must have struck many people but I have yet to read it like this yet :-
Democracy is a process by which the MAJORITY elects the winner and their leaders.
Globalisation (more the Wall Street Globalisation) is a process by which the FEW rich countries/individuals/corporates win by pure might of wealth over the majority.
So it is puzzling then why the supposed democratic government of the west supports globalisation religiously. And the wierdest thing is that the among the majority that suffers is the working people in the supposedly rich western countries. See issue in the Democratic primary in Ohio in 2008 and how Bill Clinton's NAFTA is boomeranging back on Hillary Clinton.
Increasingly we see governments giving the ARTIFICIAL and VIRTUAL corporate citizens ample way and leeway to make more money (or they call it increasing shareholder's value) by making the majority suffers.
Consider this, if your own citizen are expensive ('not competitive') find someone else who is. Likely that someone else is poorer and need it more and thus will be willing to do it cheaper of course. But the thing is the cycle doesn't end there ... they will go on and still search for cheaper places/people.
Somewhere down the line we've forgotten about increasing human value in life but about "increasing shareholders value". "Increasing shareholders value" means so little to those who is living from one paycheck to another to keep everyone in his/her family from starvation / lack of education / homelessness.
Democratic election counts for nothing much when if we choose those who will then 'elect' the rich minority over the 'barely surviving' majority.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Election Pictures ... Hah!
I know I am being mean but honestly look at this picture
and tell me it doesn't remind you of this one ...
OK ... I admit Jack has better dress sense ...
Ooo ... I am being so mean ...
and tell me it doesn't remind you of this one ...
OK ... I admit Jack has better dress sense ...
Ooo ... I am being so mean ...
Monday, January 28, 2008
I'm Touched... Thanks Marsbatch!
Salam all,
Last Saturday was our MRSM Kulim Marsbatch, reunion. We got to meet to many (about 80 turned up) ... that's more than half of us remaining. By far the biggest turnout on any reunion we've ever had.
But that's another story and will be delved into detail at the Marsbatch Blog.
Wnat I wanted to write about was that I was given an award which I totally did not have any idea about, the called it the Super Glue Award. I think the citation went on about how I helped getting Marsbatch together over the y
ears with websites, email groups etc...
I was touched. I've got a few awards here and there but this one is special coz it meant more. It's coz it was done out of love, not out of duty. I didn't expect to be appreciated, but when this was given... well... sebak is one of the feeling that came to mind.
Thanks again Marsbatch, would not trade these brothers and sisters for anything else, ever.
Last Saturday was our MRSM Kulim Marsbatch, reunion. We got to meet to many (about 80 turned up) ... that's more than half of us remaining. By far the biggest turnout on any reunion we've ever had.
But that's another story and will be delved into detail at the Marsbatch Blog.
Wnat I wanted to write about was that I was given an award which I totally did not have any idea about, the called it the Super Glue Award. I think the citation went on about how I helped getting Marsbatch together over the y
ears with websites, email groups etc...I was touched. I've got a few awards here and there but this one is special coz it meant more. It's coz it was done out of love, not out of duty. I didn't expect to be appreciated, but when this was given... well... sebak is one of the feeling that came to mind.
Thanks again Marsbatch, would not trade these brothers and sisters for anything else, ever.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Why we cant get the killers?
Read this today Duo Held over Nurin's murder released
We keep hoping that the police will be able to catch the killers. It's scary that we cant get this killer (or killers) and it's the same case for a few murders of children over the years.
How did we get to this situation?
Maybe we don't care enough to make sure that when the govt spend our money, our security is included in the spending and not just to make things pretty and for overseas trips by the local govt councillors?
Maybe we ourselves don't care. If we ask ourselves wether we know the names or how our NEXT door neighbour's children, would we know? Don't blame the cops when they don't know when we even don't know who lives next door most of the time.
We keep hoping that the police will be able to catch the killers. It's scary that we cant get this killer (or killers) and it's the same case for a few murders of children over the years.
How did we get to this situation?
Maybe we don't care enough to make sure that when the govt spend our money, our security is included in the spending and not just to make things pretty and for overseas trips by the local govt councillors?
Maybe we ourselves don't care. If we ask ourselves wether we know the names or how our NEXT door neighbour's children, would we know? Don't blame the cops when they don't know when we even don't know who lives next door most of the time.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Astro flubs programming
I was watching 'Stormbreaker' a moment ago and suddenly it switched to 'The Abyss' on Astro Star Movies.
Found myself hoping the switch is permanent as I'd rather be watching The Abyss.
I wonder what happened. Wouldn't want to be in the shoes of the poor sap that did this.
Well, sure broke up the monotony of same old movies cycle.
Here's hoping for more flubbies...
Oh teacher / parents ... where art thou?
Hi all,
It's been almost 4 months ... havent touched this blog due to other commitments, kids exams, holiday, general laziness, and involved in the Alumni journal editing, which consumed time not taken for work and family.
I registered both my sons (12 and 15) to school earlier this year. Just to illustrate some difference.
At the Primary school I noted this:-
1) All arrangements for fees and classes done before the school year starts (at least a day before for the fees and books). Class assignment for returning students were given before school closed last year.
2) For UPSR parents, the school gave a program briefing and approval request on the UPSR program. There were 21 line items in the program for UPSR (including 2 for post UPSR). Unfortunately less than 25% parents turned up for that Saturday morning briefing. Where art thou o parents....?
3) UPSR program started last week. Additional classes for which teachers volunteered (whith NO payment!... maybe some nasi lemak bungkus if parents contribute...)
4) When my son forgot to bring his homework, the principal called to ask my wife. rest assured, mys son never forgot after this.
At the secondary school I noted this:-
1) On the 1st day, all the students havent the foggiest idea which class they belong. There was an assembly that had the teachers announcing names one by one for which class the student belong to .... It took 2 hours. Could have been simply done with posting on the board.
2) Fees to be paid only informed to student on 1st day. Almost no parents turned up but simply gave money to their kids to pay. Probably much preferable as then teachers don't have to explain what the fees are for
3) My son is sitting PMR, class teacher have ZERO information as to whether there will be any extra classes. Forget about any letters / announcement ... they havent figured that out too.
Why the difference? We have much more higher educated teacher supposedly in the secondary schools, but less of the dedication. What gives ...?
Anyway ... watch this space... I'm intending to chronicle changes I'm trying to garner up at the secondary school.
Later on I'll tell you what the school is.
It's been almost 4 months ... havent touched this blog due to other commitments, kids exams, holiday, general laziness, and involved in the Alumni journal editing, which consumed time not taken for work and family.
I registered both my sons (12 and 15) to school earlier this year. Just to illustrate some difference.
At the Primary school I noted this:-
1) All arrangements for fees and classes done before the school year starts (at least a day before for the fees and books). Class assignment for returning students were given before school closed last year.
2) For UPSR parents, the school gave a program briefing and approval request on the UPSR program. There were 21 line items in the program for UPSR (including 2 for post UPSR). Unfortunately less than 25% parents turned up for that Saturday morning briefing. Where art thou o parents....?
3) UPSR program started last week. Additional classes for which teachers volunteered (whith NO payment!... maybe some nasi lemak bungkus if parents contribute...)
4) When my son forgot to bring his homework, the principal called to ask my wife. rest assured, mys son never forgot after this.
At the secondary school I noted this:-
1) On the 1st day, all the students havent the foggiest idea which class they belong. There was an assembly that had the teachers announcing names one by one for which class the student belong to .... It took 2 hours. Could have been simply done with posting on the board.
2) Fees to be paid only informed to student on 1st day. Almost no parents turned up but simply gave money to their kids to pay. Probably much preferable as then teachers don't have to explain what the fees are for
3) My son is sitting PMR, class teacher have ZERO information as to whether there will be any extra classes. Forget about any letters / announcement ... they havent figured that out too.
Why the difference? We have much more higher educated teacher supposedly in the secondary schools, but less of the dedication. What gives ...?
Anyway ... watch this space... I'm intending to chronicle changes I'm trying to garner up at the secondary school.
Later on I'll tell you what the school is.
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