Goodbye 2008, Welcome 2009

Another year is coming to an end. What a dramatic ending too if you are a Malaysian. Fellow Malaysians will know what I'm saying.

A new year, a new beginning for 2009? I guess there will be more political-motivated dramas; "gifts" from the government, politicians and racist people of sort to peace-loving Malaysians. I foresee them coming.

Not wanting to be sticky here since it is going to be my last post of 2008, I would make it short and little sweet. As I have said it before, looking back at how rowdy some morons celebrate occasion like this, I'm not gonna stay out. I'm gonna stay in and catch some great DVDs.

Last but not least, I got some new year resolutions to make too. Need to do some soul-searching of sort! To visitors of my blog, wherever you are, I WISH YOU A HAPPY NEW YEAR AND MAY YOUR WISHES COME TRUE IN 2009!

PEACE.

X'mas Celebration ala Hooligan

I'm one who never celebrate X'mas outdoor, if given a choice. I just can't stomach what morons with dick heads do.

I've heard of it for ages, I know what it is like, how morons take advantage of the occasion to do something stupid. Jumping onto moving vehicles is too much, way out of the senses. Hey, look, even little kid is quick to join in the act!

Come Chinese New Year, these hooligans will even throw firecrackers at you.

So, stay at home. Better be safe than sorry.

And what morons left behind after, truck-load of rubbish!

P.S. Pictures courtesy of Star Online.

Father "L-ansi" (Arrogant)

The meaning of 'father' among others,

1. Father Christianity.
   1. God.
   2. The first person of the Christian Trinity.
2. Father A church father.
3. (Abbr. Fr.)
   1. A priest or clergyman in the Roman Catholic or Anglican churches.
   2. Used as a title and form of address with or without the clergyman's name.

Let me tell you my perception of a church father or priest. HE is soft-spoken, understanding, polite, helpful, with big heart, loved by many, etc. Share my view?

OK, I had this good perception of mine all wrong when I came face to face with this father of an oldest church (over 100 years) in BM the other day. This is also the biggest church in Malaysia in terms of land size if I'm not mistaken.

After the encounter, I have only one sentence to sum him up - You Are ARROGANT, not befitting your status as a father of a church!

The whole story goes like this....

I went to the gift shop there about 10.30am, the shop assistants were very helpful indeed but told me I should see Father L because he was in-charge for all things. So, that left me with only one choice, no other. I was also told to speak to his secretary in case father was not around. And, he was indeed not around. I asked his secretary where was father and what time he would be in.... I was told that "he went upstairs but don't know what time he will be down. Usually father will be in the office around 9.00am". OK, I went off and politely told the secretary that I would be back tomorrow morning.

The next morning....I went to the office at around 9.00 in the morning. Father was not in sight and the secretary office was closed. Then I decided to drive my car up near the office location instead of walking up from far down again, also to pass a little time.

While alighting from my car, out of sudden a Chinese man in Bermuda shorts and T-shirt walked out from that area with an Indian man (well attired but casual) toward a car parked beside mine.

The conversation went like this....

Chinese man: What are you looking for?
Me: I'm looking for Father L (surname withheld)
Chinese man: Where are you from?
Me: BM (meaning Bukit Mertajam)
Chinese man: (Looking bemused but not saying a word)
Me: Are you Father L? (his facial expression indicating he is)
Chinese man: You don't know who is father L?
Me: (Taken aback by his reply - sounding rude)
Chinese man (Father L): What do you want?
Me: I have some X'mas decors....(not given a second to finish my sentence)
Chinese man (Father L): Don't want! (walked to the passenger side of a black Honda Accord)
Me: Thank you.
Indian man: (Looking surprised with the way Father L impolitely brushed me off but still managed to put on a smiling face, for me I guess, as though being apologetic)
Me: (I got into my car, reversed, waved goodbye & thank you to both of them and drove off feeling....)

My feelings....after the incident, well, very bad impression indeed of this Father L especially! Occasionally I go to this church to pray though I'm not a Christian. I shall forgive and forget about the whole bad experience with a father of this church.

Now, I really know who Father L is from this church in Bukit Mertajam. You have to answer to God for your lansi (arrogant) actions, f-a-t-h-e-r!

Sales Gimmick

See the picture, it all started like this....

One evening, I flipped the newspaper and saw an advert with some interesting electronic stuff on sale.

This is almost everyday's thing given the season-end is just around the corner. Moreover with business looking sluggish for many, the economy not looking rosy, what a good time and better way to increase business. OK, fine, there is nothing wrong. The consumers will benefit.

So happened I was really looking forward to changing my DVD player. When you use a non-branded one, don't expect too much from it e.g. last longer. After all, stuff like this is pretty cheap nowadays. And off I went the next morning to inquire my new DVD player. Following my instinct, I went to check the advert that I saw last night - circled. Pretty interesting. In fact, I went to three branches, two shown above.

First one, I was told the' Crazy Bargain, Storewide Sale' did not apply to that particular branch - not included in the advert too. OK, off I went to another branch, another place.

Second one, yeah they had it. I was quite ecstatic. Why was I anyway given the fact that DVD players were dirt cheap nowadays? The fact that I could get a bargain price for a "branded" (as advertised) DVD player made me 'a little naive' in a way. With 2 years FREE warranty thrown in, who wouldn't be happy....until reality set in.

Third one, I went there and they too provided me a China-brand, different from my phone inquiry earlier in the day (when I was at the 2nd branch). They must have communicated.

What you see is what you don't get!!! Let me list down what's my problem with this company at the 2nd branch,

1. It's a China-brand, though popular in a way but I was expecting an established brand to be called "branded". Was my expectation too high??? Hmmmm.

2. When I asked for a branded-as-advertised one, the sales person gave me a brand that retailed at RM145.00. If that was the case, then after "saving" RM80.00, the price I supposed to pay should be RM65.00. But hell NO. He also got the cheek to tell me that the RM199.00 set no longer in stock!!! No stock in the first day? This guy was kidding me.

3. Then I insisted the sales person called the BM branch (3rd one) to check; I called to check a couple minutes earlier. That branch gave me a contradict answer but was what I wanted to hear. However, the sales person came back to me and told me the China-brand was the correct one!

4. I said "if that was the case, why this China-brand did not have the karaoke-jack (function) as advertised?". He was totally blurred, got himself twisted.

5. To press on, I further asked him how did the '2-Year FREE Warranty' apply to this set and he again made himself looked like a fool (what a pity) by saying, "actually it's only 1st year and for 2nd year needed to pay extra or join membership". Huh, FREE means what??? You guess.

Points raised. Would you feel cheated in this scenario? I bet you do. I did! So, I walked out in disgust and shortly called up their HQ in Penang to file a complaint and followed up with an email. I got a verbal and written apology and explanation in the end.

But that's no my point here. I just felt cheated and wasting my time with such sales gimmick going around. Worse still, many established companies are doing this. Who are we to complain to, what action can be taken, who is monitoring this....the known grouses go on and on. I know many have fallen victims to this so-called 'SALE' in many forms.

Like the saying goes....Malaysia has many laws but the implementation is weak and sometimes the interpretation is overzealous. Third-world mentality it is. So, many consumers don't bother to complain, thus suffer in silence.

As for me, I speak up and stand up for my rights as a consumer. I'm a happy customer to a LG DVD player now. How much did I pay - RM245 with an additional HDMI cable. Where did I buy - Jusco, BM. I got what I wanted and happy paying a little bit more.

The next time you face this tricky situation, ask questions as a consumer. Don't take everything (sweet words) thrown-in in adverts. It'll be a sad story if you do.

Table Talks

Today was just another Saturday for me and my spouse. As usual, we would do our "marketing" (go to pasar or wet market) for the week. And I completely forgot about a wedding dinner of a friend of almost 10 years.

My conversation with my spouse was centered on something else. Somehow this friend of mine had something in common with our topic of discussion. And immediately I got jolted off my seat about a dinner invitation. He called me back after receiving my SMS by saying the very evening was that actual dinner date. Call it a coincidence but I think it is more of 'divine intervention'. God does watch over us and intervene!

So, the evening started like any other wedding dinner although my friend was an Indian and married a Chinese girl. Seated with my spouse and kiddo were some senior Indian and Chinese couples. Guess what, as soon as the "ice was broken", the whole table talks went into political reality of Malaysia today.

How policies of national interest were created, changed and manipulated to become lopsided, biased and unfair to the other races. How cases or wrongdoings involving politicians of a ruling party and powers that be are brushed off as non-relevant or swept aside or judged with hidden hand. Evidence or even SD is nothing. However, simple issues involving politicians from the "other side" are fast-tracked with investigations as good as being prejudged with guilt.

At times, everyone at the table got so worked up just by thinking of what could have been if Malaysia were governed properly and with good leadership. What have become of Malaysia nowadays compare to the 70's or early 80's?

Today, we cannot see eye to eye in many things, racial issues are cooked up for nothing, we cannot do this and that, either classified as sensitive or pure ignorant, ignoring the fact that Malaysians too want FREEDOM to choose and decide. Today, we have many lopsided policies being put into practice thus creating more dissatisfaction and hatred amongst Malaysians.

Who is to be blamed??? The very person who ruled with iron fist for 22 years did the damage somehow. Credited with bringing Malaysia up to what she is today, national policies could have been dealt with better if not best.

Breeding greed will ruin one's empire. The future certainly looks bleak if not corrected immediately. FAIRPLAY does not necessarily sidelining the other. Not even want a silver spoon.

Is that too much to ask for?

NEW ALBUM....after 17 years!

No Brain

Do you know what it is in this picture? Yeah, it's a brain. Everybody has one.

But, a big BUT here, some people just forget to use it properly or rather not use it at all! When someone's brain is not utilized properly, you get into all sort of troubles with him or them.

To me, these people who do not utilize their brains, I call them ASSHOLES. They can talk like one or act like one. Worse still, some are "given" authority to become one. To these assholes, bear in mind, this is internet-age.

Those who call themselves top leaders of Malaysia from a ruling party say nothing, seem to condone such stupid acts. I think all these people ought to be sent back to school to learn the basics. But then again, nowadays our education standard is too low, can't help either!

Now, what am I talking about or referring to or mad about these people I call ASSHOLES??? Look at the roadsign that has alternative language to give foreign visitors easy reference when they come to our shores. The name in national language i.e. Bahasa Malaysia is still very much visible (bigger too).

What more, a certain parts of Penang (i.e. surrounding Georgetown) have been listed as heritage sites which will make roadsigns with alternative language(s) even more useful. The world may want to know more about Penang. If the original name can be retained, certainly it is more meaningful to the foreign visitors.

Back to what I am mad about....just by having extra language on the roadsigns, CAN THE STATUS OF OUR NATIONAL LANGUAGE i.e. BAHASA MALAYSIA BE THREATENED??? That is exactly what the assholes think it will!

Can our children grow up without knowing Bahasa Malaysia? Can I benumbed and totally not able to speak a word of Bahasa Malaysia? The questions to those assholes continue....

It is completely stupid to think that the very status of a language can be eroded by a simple but noble way of adding another language to it. What sort of message are they telling the world - that Malaysians are "living on trees"?

Hey, even though I did not learn a word of Mandarin in school, somehow I still able to 'speak' Mandarin quite fluently now. I'm proud to be able to speak THREE languages but I'm still very Malaysian! Not even a part of me has changed.

To the assholes, if your children become one of the jobless graduates one day, don't blame this and that but your own doing, lousy system and outdated thinking. As the Malay saying goes - like the "frog under the coconut shell" people. By championing the wrong cause will lead to nothing. And don't deprive of others the opportunity.

English is still and will be the international language. More people in the world are also learning Mandarin now! The latter is touted to be the second language of the world in another decade or so.

A Basket-fool of ... A's

I can't agree more with an article published in the Star paper today. It's all about the 'quantity' of A's scored in exams.

Year in year out, Malaysia students make headlines, getting attention from the media of how many A's they have scored in exams, three times a year, at least. Why three times a year because we have UPSR for the Primary Six, PMR for Sec 3 and SPM for Sec 5 ('O' Level). If A's are used purely to judge a student's ability or intelligence, I have no doubt it is not a true reflection at all given Malaysia low standard education system.

What is the passing marks for scoring A's? Are they vary for every different subject? E.g. English, Science, Math compare to the "extra" non-relevant subjects such as foreign language or religious studies. I say this because it has not been proven how it is done or worse still the way it is done has not been made transparent. Help me to understand if you know.

It makes me wonder....every year students are getting more A's than the last, ballooning up to 18, 19, 20 and it is counting in SPM!!! How is that possible? 21 As means 21 subjects! It is certainly a shocker to me and also sounds STUPID.

My father could read and write Mandarin, English and Bahasa Malaysia but only educated till LCE level - those days. Today, you got students with A's that can fill up a basket at SPM level ('O' Level) BUT cannot phrase a proper sentence in English. Don't ask these high scorers to speak English because your funny bone might be tickled pink! Know what I'm sayin'.

Thanks and no thanks to our education system, policies makers, dumb politicians, overzealous national language guardians, etc. Whatever you call these people - they really fit the tag 'dumb and dumber' anyway. I would bet they may not even let their children finish education here - most end up overseas!

Come on, what is the relevancy of such many A's??? Isn't it quality counts over quantity at the end of the day? What counts is your spot-on ability to impress your interviewers. E.g. if one can speak good English, use correct tenses or grammars, phrase a complete sentence that your listeners can understand, it says a lot even without the many A's. Some can't even do a simple math calculation but call himself a degree holder. Huh!

If we don't practise matriculation and continue to harp on QUOTA i.e. reserved places for the Malays, it is futile to score a basket-fool of A's for show. If we don't allow competition, let the best compete with the best, it is meaningless. If we keep on flip-flopping our education system, worse still back-tracking it, changing it at whim and fancy, what future does our children have? What kind of future leaders does our country want to produce, etc.?

A BASKET-FOOL of A's, you bet we have it every year! We are going to break more Malaysia Book of Records in quantity of A's scored in national level exams. Surely but bodoh-ly (stupid)!

My Moment With CM

A couple weeks ago I was called upon to attend a dinner function of an association which my employer was a member. As usual in a Chinese-style function time is always a problem to meet. Know what I'm sayin' - the invitation card may states 7.00pm but the guests only trickled in an hour late or 8.30pm to full house.

I say 'late' because a dinner function is like another important appointment, you just got to be punctual. 10 minutes late for a dinner function could be excusable. But always people will take their own sweet time coming to a dinner function. It's a matter of respecting the host or organizer la. So be punctual next time as though you are meeting someone important i.e. your darling or sweetheart!

OK, the dinner went on as usual, nothing much "unusual", looking around I spotted some people are taking such opportunity to walk around "to be seen" and or course many just want to "look-see look-see" for beautiful species. There were also some people like to chat their lungs out, even at a distance you could hear them talking about "yesterday night good times".

An hour later, came our honorable guest - Penang CM Lim Guan Eng. He got a standing ovation, alright. I was proud to see him too, just being at the same venue. Is he anything special? Hmmm, not really. The fact is HE IS LIKEABLE WITH A BOY-NEXT-DOOR- IMAGE THAT STRIKES MANY IN THE HEART. He looks so simple and humble as a person - portraying that kind of 'no air' (lan si) image.

Yeah he was busy indeed that week and what more just came back from overseas trip to Korea and came straight to this function upon touching down in Penang on that day. So, my moment was standing on stage with him, supposedly receiving a recognition momento from him but no, anyway shook his hand and took a couple group photos that were published in various mainstream Chinese media. Check out Penang CM, fourth from right. And me, I was "somewhere" on the right side.

Now, how a person endears himself to people by and large is really a 'natural' skill of sort, not taught in school. The way one speaks, reacts, portrays own image, etc. especially as a public figure is self-taught as far as I'm concern. During his speech he was as usual calm and gentlemanly, however, couldn't resist taking a swipe at the federal garmen's many decisions. Everybody had a good laugh....

Example, Penang state government is going ahead to implement a FREE WiFi service to Penang (of course a chunk of the cost is to be borne by sponsors) BUT our federal garmen of the day is going to spend "billions" to go wireless. Yeah right, millions are too small a sum nowadays! Think again!!!

Penang Gerakan, the sunset political party, made so much noise when Penang CM led a group of 50 to Korea on business trip - in fact they were barking at the wrong tree! But a worthless agricultural trip to Taiwan recently was not sounded. Classic example there.

Lastly, to all the politicians who are always talking about going to the grassroots, please learn a thing or two from CM Lim first. His guanxi (relationship) with Penang people is building up momentum - very good indeed.

Astronaut, Made In Bolehland

Here we call astronaut as angkasawan.

So we have one who went up there, did what he only knew what he did, came back a hero of sort, got a Datukship (a title, as usual given away like nobody business), go around trying to inspire school children (if not how his paymaster is going to justify the money spent), of course getting paid handsomely too (a figure that we only knew lately, plus hidden perks, maybe), etc.

His father gave a flip-flop statement the other day. Is he or is he not making millions from giving talks? So actually did he charge for every so-called inspiring talks or given FREE? Or free to the organizers but getting paid extra by his paymaster using taxpayers' fund? When something is hidden, it smells fishy. Simple.

A problem starts when Malaysians are deprived of the truth - where money is simply spent excessively. Everyone knows how it is done in Malaysia by the powers that be when it come to matters "concerning the public interest" i.e. do it quietly. Shhhhhhh! When the secret is broken to publicly, usually it takes two weeks for someone at the top to cook up a bullshit (reason) to quash the whole issue, like now.

This fellow has been going round giving talks in the country ever since he "landed" back on earth. And only today his wall cracks amid controversy. Perhaps it is not his entire doing. You bet. You know how good some people in that particular political party exploit cheap publicity either for the party or individuals with personal agenda.

What about hiring a driver and bodyguard??? Can he not drive himself? Is Malaysia so unsafe, needed to go around with bodyguard? Now there is someone indirectly admitted, huh, that Malaysia is unsafe! I thought only in Chow Kit and JB areas!!!

Is he kidding me that he pays the driver and bodyguard out of his RM5000.oo salary? Money is no issue to the garmen what!!! EPF got so much money inside, just sign a RM5,000,000,000.00 cheque also can. Am I getting my digits correct for billion?

In a Batman movie you can afford a Joker to run the show. In Malaysia, Malaysians do not need joker(s) to run the country.

Freedom

So RPK is finally a free man. And what's next?

What??? The garmen is going to appeal against his release? So, it's like if you can appeal, I also can appeal huh! In the first place there was no case whatsoever. What happened was a mess cooked up by the powers that be or rather that most idiotic YB in the country, ever produced. Damn.

And as though making statements that irk most Malaysians is not enough, he took to the street yesterday, a place supposed to be the-most-notorious, the-most-dirty with contagious diseases just to be photographed and to prove his earlier statement in parliament was misquoted.

So, the police beat base was closed because the owner took back the building. It took him so long to cook up another bullshit. What about the street since he took a walk with so much security in tow, did he find any contagious diseases??? Anymore bullshit? So, no reason given but again people misquoted him? Damn.

Next, RPK should take action against that YB for wrongfully signed his detention paper. Otherwise many more monkeys like him will simply do as what they like. It's the rule of law too that people sue them back ala YB Teresa.

RPK, I just wanted to congratulate you for your release. You have got back your freedom. Don't stop till they drop!

President-Elect Barack Obama - Full Speech

"I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to – it belongs to you." - Barack Obama, Election Night 2008

Remarks of President-Elect Barack Obama

(as prepared for delivery)

Election Night

Tuesday, November 4th, 2008

Chicago, Illinois

If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.

It’s the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference.

It’s the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled – Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America.

It’s the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day.

It’s been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America.

I just received a very gracious call from Senator McCain. He fought long and hard in this campaign, and he’s fought even longer and harder for the country he loves. He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine, and we are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader. I congratulate him and Governor Palin for all they have achieved, and I look forward to working with them to renew this nation’s promise in the months ahead.

I want to thank my partner in this journey, a man who campaigned from his heart and spoke for the men and women he grew up with on the streets of Scranton and rode with on that train home to Delaware, the Vice President-elect of the United States, Joe Biden.

I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last sixteen years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation’s next First Lady, Michelle Obama. Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that’s coming with us to the White House. And while she’s no longer with us, I know my grandmother is watching, along with the family that made me who I am. I miss them tonight, and know that my debt to them is beyond measure.

To my campaign manager David Plouffe, my chief strategist David Axelrod, and the best campaign team ever assembled in the history of politics – you made this happen, and I am forever grateful for what you’ve sacrificed to get it done.

But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to – it belongs to you.

I was never the likeliest candidate for this office. We didn’t start with much money or many endorsements. Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington – it began in the backyards of Des Moines and the living rooms of Concord and the front porches of Charleston.

It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give five dollars and ten dollars and twenty dollars to this cause. It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation’s apathy; who left their homes and their families for jobs that offered little pay and less sleep; from the not-so-young people who braved the bitter cold and scorching heat to knock on the doors of perfect strangers; from the millions of Americans who volunteered, and organized, and proved that more than two centuries later, a government of the people, by the people and for the people has not perished from this Earth. This is your victory.

I know you didn’t do this just to win an election and I know you didn’t do it for me. You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead. For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime – two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century. Even as we stand here tonight, we know there are brave Americans waking up in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan to risk their lives for us. There are mothers and fathers who will lie awake after their children fall asleep and wonder how they’ll make the mortgage, or pay their doctor’s bills, or save enough for college. There is new energy to harness and new jobs to be created; new schools to build and threats to meet and alliances to repair.

The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America – I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you – we as a people will get there.

There will be setbacks and false starts. There are many who won’t agree with every decision or policy I make as President, and we know that government can’t solve every problem. But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face. I will listen to you, especially when we disagree. And above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it’s been done in America for two-hundred and twenty-one years – block by block, brick by brick, calloused hand by calloused hand.

What began twenty-one months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night. This victory alone is not the change we seek – it is only the chance for us to make that change. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were. It cannot happen without you.

So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other. Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it’s that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers – in this country, we rise or fall as one nation; as one people.

Let us resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long. Let us remember that it was a man from this state who first carried the banner of the Republican Party to the White House – a party founded on the values of self-reliance, individual liberty, and national unity. Those are values we all share, and while the Democratic Party has won a great victory tonight, we do so with a measure of humility and determination to heal the divides that have held back our progress. As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, “We are not enemies, but friends…though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection.” And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn – I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your President too.

And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world – our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down – we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security – we support you. And to all those who have wondered if America’s beacon still burns as bright – tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope.

For that is the true genius of America – that America can change. Our union can be perfected. And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow.

This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations. But one that’s on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta. She’s a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing – Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old.

She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn’t vote for two reasons – because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin.

And tonight, I think about all that she’s seen throughout her century in America – the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can’t, and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes we can.

At a time when women’s voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot. Yes we can.

When there was despair in the dust bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs and a new sense of common purpose. Yes we can.

When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved. Yes we can.

She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma, and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that “We Shall Overcome.” Yes we can.

A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination. And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen, and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change. Yes we can.

America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do. So tonight, let us ask ourselves – if our children should live to see the next century; if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see? What progress will we have made?

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 can’t, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people:

Yes We Can. Thank you, God bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America.

Democracy

Barack Obama, a 47-year-old first-term senator from Illinois, shattered more than 200 years of history Tuesday night by winning election as the first African-American president of the United States.

“If there is anyone out there who doubts that America is a place where anything is possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer,” Obama declared.

“Young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled, Americans have sent a message to the world that we have never been just a collection of red states and blue states,” he said. “We have been and always will be the United States of America.

“It’s been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America,” he said to a long roar.

There is a real lesson to be learned from this historical election in America, coupled with the victory for the first African-American to become president of USA. True to his victory speech, America has been a place, a country where every dream is possible, never a doubt. Americans have decided and chosen their first black president. Aren't there more whites than black in America? How is that possible??? The above picture speaks a thousand words. All the white hands going up, cheering and signifying acceptance of a black president.

Obviously racism has been done with or kept to a distance. Millions of Americans have put on their thinking cap, decided the very best candidate wins. Their belief that the best candidate will lead America shows many countries in the world are still lacking in this mentality. There are no worries of any one race may be sidelined because there is none to worry about. Everyone, as a citizen in America is an American, deserves what is rightfully his or hers. It is as simple as that.

Just read excerpts from BO's victory speech above. This man really got the world sit up and in awe of his becoming the first of many historic moments in America and most of all moving into White House (as the joke goes...meant for white people only!) come Jan 20, 2009.

Can Malaysians who are rightful citizens in a country known as Malaysia CHOOSE/VOTE their Prime Minister? If only citizens of Malaysia can decide, if only citizens of Malaysia are equal, if only citizens of Malaysia disregard race, if only....if only.... .

God Save Malaysia.

Valuecap Debt - 1001 Questions

Please use your "smartest" brain to digest this article as published in alternative media today.

Pick from Malaysian Insider

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 3 — State investment company Valuecap Sdn Bhd owes its three shareholders RM5.1 billion, which is due to be repaid in February 2009.

This debt, in the form of interest-bearing unsecured bonds, raises questions over plans for the Employees Provident Fund to lend RM5 billion to Valuecap to invest in the stock market.

In March 2003, Valuecap borrowed RM5.1 billion from shareholders Khazanah, Kumpulan Wang Amanah Pencen and Permodalan Nasional Bhd to invest in the stock market. At the time, world stock markets were bracing for a looming war in Iraq which followed on the September 2001 attacks on the US.

Valuecap’s bonds were due to be repaid in February 2006, but the company was given another three years to this coming February. At the end of 2006, the three shareholders each held RM1.7 billion in these bonds, according to documents obtained by The Malaysian Insider.

Since these debt instruments were not listed and are not tradeable, the three shareholders are probably still holding these bonds today.

Recently, the government proposed that EPF lend Valuecap RM5 billion to invest in the stock market. In view of its impending obligation to repay its shareholders, however, questions arise over whether the loaned funds will be used to redeem the bonds.

As at the end of 2006, Valuecap’s investments were valued at RM4.8 billion. Since then, the stock market has lost 21 per cent of its value. If Valuecap’s investments have tracked the stock market, these could be worth RM3.8 billion currently.

Valuecap may have managed to unwind some of its positions when it launched a RM840 million Islamic investment fund earlier this year. Called myETF Dow Jones Islamic Market Malaysia Titans 25, the fund is managed by a wholly-owned subsidiary, iVCAP Management Sdn Bhd.

At the end of October, the fund's value was 41 per cent lower than at its launch in January this year.

Market observers have speculated that this was Valuecap’s version of Hong Kong’s Tracker Fund, which the Hong Kong government launched in 1999 to unwind US$15 billion (RM52.5 billion) worth of stock positions accumulated during the 1997 Asian financial crisis. The fund concluded the disposals of almost the shares by the end of 2002.

Current market conditions make it difficult, if not impossible, for Valuecap to unwind its positions.

If it is unable to sell its stock market investments, it may repay its shareholders in kind, transferring its share portfolio to them instead of coughing up cash.

If it did so, the EPF loan would provide fresh cash to make new investments. If its shareholders require to be repaid in cash, however, Valuecap may need the cash infusion from EPF.

The company has been servicing the interest on the debt. It has also established a sinking fund to set aside funds to repay the debt. As at December 2006, the sinking fund stood at roughly RM780 million, and it held RM1.7 billion in cash and deposits.

We really got screwed "deep, deep" with our hard-earned savings!!!

A True Blue Leader

I have said it before in my blog and I would have no second thought now that my negative perception of our next leaders in line have never changed. Full stop.

These people from Umno will never going to be Malaysian leader. Yeah, alright they can, "by automatic" (if you understand how Malaysia PM is chosen) be leader of Malaysia. But not Malaysian leader by and large. The neutral Malaysians will agree that they are "fighting" for self-glory and to stay relevant. And by doing so, they will always play up populist or rather racial statements or remarks in disguise. They know, they are not going to win any support from other races and devil may care so long as they remain strong within the inner circle of Umno. As a whole, Malaysia political scene is one hell of a circus - not relevant to present times anymore.

A true blue Malaysian leader, is there one with credentials? I think there is! But it is very unfortunate that he is not a commoner and he has to remain apolitical in politics. Need not elaborate....a true blue Malaysian leader is none other than Raja Nazrin Shah. If any politician who aspires to lead Malaysia, and stay relevant to all Malaysians, NOT only to a particular race, HE should emulate Raja Nazrin Shah, lead by example, make speeches like him, etc.

Pick from Malaysian Insider today....read this,

Raja Nazrin: Governments must not discriminate

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30 - The Raja Muda of Perak Raja Nazrin Shah said today that governments should not set down discriminatory laws or policies but must ensure inclusive development through empowerment.

"No segment of society must be disrespected, discredited and disenfranchised," he said in his address at the 21st LawAsia Conference here.
He said that no single group in any country should feel their contributions are unrecognized or unwanted.

While the Perak Raja Muda did not specify what laws or which countries he was referring to, his remarks comes amid a roiling debate over the country's "social contract" and the government's pro-Bumiputera affirmative action policies.

His advice also comes on the heels of the recent statement by the Rulers Council calling on all parties to stop questioning the social contract between Malays and non-Malays as it would cause unease.

In his speech today, Raja Nazrin called for the abandonment of what he called "the silo mentality where we only look up at what is happening and not beside us at what others are experiencing."
He made a case instead for policies which empower through inclusiveness.

"Only with inclusive development through empowerment can societies become strong," he said.
The lack of empowerment, he said, would lead to a sense of alienation and hostility that could result in "rash acts of violence."
"We cannot morally turn our backs on the fundamental responsibility of ensuring that all stakeholders in our society, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, have a place under the sun."

Among the prerequisites cited by Raja Nazrin for empowerment was for governments to strengthen the rule of law and to ensure greater political participation for citizens as stakeholders.

"It is only when citizens are also stakeholders will there be the widest sense of ownership of problems and challenges," he said.

What more can I say, the politicians who make a mockery of Malaysia politics should be ashamed. The "aspirants" fighting to be what-they-are-not, should be ashamed too. Anyone who cannot come "clean" and still wanting to to be up there, should be most ashamed. Heed the majority, the majority does not come within one political party, the majority is us, the rakyat (citizens of Malaysia).

Somehow, US Presidential Election is very interesting though! A non-white leading a country of 250plus millions??? Even his name doesn't sound "white". History is surely being made!

Scrap Metal

It has happened. It has been reported. It has even been published. What is the action taken? Hey, the manace is "mushrooming".

Thanks and no thanks to the "easily available avenues" to sell the stolen scrap metals. If one just take a casual drive around Prai Industrial area, there are many missing manhole covers right in the middle of the roads, switchboards for street lightings without front and back panels/doors, railings for monsoon drains partially gone and anything that is metal or copper will not be spared. Why are these people so daring?

It has been published recently about how Sbg. Jaya area was stripped off the manhole covers in almost every available piece. Thus endangering the lives of the people moving around there. What is the action taken? The question remains unanswered as far as I know.

Let me tell you....firstly they have not been caught, none that I know or read from the media. Secondly, it is so easy to sell the stolen scraps! There are many of such scrap shops around. Thirdly, if one can buy the stolen scraps at a bargain price, why not.

The way I look at it, the fault lies in the hand of the authorities. These people are very bad in controlling and fast in issuing licenses. Poor management. Knowing very well of how the tidak apa attitude works within the authorities, the unscrupulous Malaysians are fast and good at exploiting the loopholes - always!

There is no concerted effort at all to control this business i.e. the issuing of licenses to the scrap dealers/shops, checking the source that these dealers buy, the scraps that they keep in their backyards, the stern penalty of breaking the law i.e. buying stolen items, etc. I would not like to think a stolen manhole cover is considered petty crime!

I would say, from my point of view, they the authorities have no clue in nabbing the "big time thieves" that got away so easily. Because they are considered petty - no way! Now, if it is not easy to track the thieves, can't they carry out spot-check on the scrap dealers? I'm of the opinion that these stolen scraps are sold immediately to the dealers to make fast money. My other question is - who is supposed to act on this issue, seriously? In the meantime, while the responsibility is still being questioned, more public properties will go missing or are being stolen day in day out.

The consequences, more lives are endangered each day and public funds being wasted in replacing the stolen ones. Malaysia boleh!

Home Cooked Food

Recently I have setup a new blog called homecookmeal.blogspot.com to showcase some of the simple cooking that one can whip up at home. I'm blessed that I get to enjoy such "privilege" at home. I'm not the cook - my other half is.

However, more often than not, as it happens to most of my colleagues or friends, they have to eat out because nobody cooks at home. Most of the working women don't cook nowadays. Either they are not good at it or too tired after a hard day at work. I think I'm quite right with the former. Of course if you are still staying with your mom or mother-in-law, it's a relief! Otherwise you just have to eat out.

I can tell you, eating out is no fun. Unless you are wealthy enough to go to fancy restaurants always. What is no fun to me is something which I have no control over it. It is all about eating healthy food. I'm not complaining about the taste yet. Imagine the lowest grade of cooking oil used, amount of mono sodium glutamate used (at times I felt very dry in my throat after eating out), unhygienic food preparing method, etc. As the saying goes, what you don't see will go down well with your stomach.

I have had compliments all over from my friends that I'm lucky to have home-cooked food as and when I desire. Yeah, I have no complaint but praises for my other half. All the daily food that I eat outside during the day at work I can find them better, miles better at home!!! And of course we have control of what's going into a dish i.e. healthy food.

Cooking is not something extraordinary that many people tend to find it difficult. Same as you what do in life - one has to be passionate and a little bit on the creative side to do it right. Cooking is something you create out of nothing. You can always refer to a cook book though. The right combination of ingredients is very important. It is even simpler to cook a home-cooked meal. Just balance the taste of a dish and you are done.

Well, it is easier said than done, one may argue. Guess I'm just going to accept the fact that....YES I'M A LUCKY MAN. My spouse can cook!

BULLY

The just concluded MCA election has given new hopes to the Chinese community. What? Am I wrong to say that?

The new team is seen as being outspoken and never hesitate to cross the line. How's that? Yeah, the new MCA No.1 & 2 do have the history of being "nasty". If they were going to bring the brash attitude into BN i.e. being outspoken, I think they would meet their match in the likes of Umno ultras.

I was quite surprised that there was not much of hoo-hah following the very brash speech by the former MCA President. The next morning I did not see any headlines in the Star (maybe in Utusan) with the usual backlash by Umno ultras. But there was one Shah-rir though denying Umno was a bully in BN. Maybe he didn't get the true meaning from the speech.

Bully? Well, let me put it more street-like manner about its meaning. When one acts like a taiko (big brother), he doesn't need to give advance notice or consult the other fellows in the group when making decisions. He sees himself as already superior than the others, so why should he seek a second opinion then. However, if he is not officially 'elected' as a taiko but still exerting his superiority over the others, that is TANTAMOUNT TO BULLYING! Simple as that.

That one reaction from Shah-rir is a clear sign or just the tip of the iceberg. You bet, out there are many more ultras waiting to retaliate. Perhaps, they are jostling for positions in their up and coming election and not wanting to jeopardize their own chances.

As I see it, MCA will be in for a hard time going head to head with the self-elected taiko in BN. We have seen it before, most of the time, they go for 'shoot before look' the moment you are deemed crossing the "demarcation line".

Where does MCA go from here? We shall see!

Jokers - Made In Malaysia

Like I said in my previous posting recently; I wouldn't give a damn of who is leading Malaysia comes next March. There is no change unless they are changed!

True to what I have said, where is the quality especially those bunch who are jostling for top positions and aiming high to be ministers? There is no pride at all, just taking it for granted. Anyone not knowing what our Hamid had replied in written form to parliament yesterday? Eat this....

A question was asked about the closing down of a police beat base in Chow Kit area. Our Hamid's answer was the reason being Chow Kit area was so notorious and posed a safety threat to the policemen, obviously for manning the beat base there, so it got to be closed down!!! He even went further by saying the area was also so very dirty (with contagious diseases) that would be a health hazard to the policemen stationed there!!! So, off they packed up and fled....!

Police running scared? Transmissible diseases by direct or indirect contact? What??? What struck me in the head was (I believe for everyone of you too) if the police were running scared of the notorious criminals, the public would have been buried six-feet under by now! Who is supposed to safeguard the safety of the public? Isn't it only right for the police to be where the criminals are???

A Home Minister giving such statement in Parliament is certainly making a mockery of being elected by us. Malaysia will be back-paddling further with ministers keep on giving illogical statements in public and parliament. It is a laughing matter to most but our senses tell us that how on earth can we have such minister(s) whereby the majority of us can do better. Imagine such lawmakers making decisions in Parliament for us but they are not much better than us!

Welcome to Made In Malaysia Jokers Club. Admission, free via a single ruling party.

Untouchable

Today a couple Hindraf supporters are called up to give police statements. Reason, for showing up at cabinet Raya open house with "special ISA message" to the PM. How's that?

Well, as widely reported and circulated on the net especially, just days after fresh allegations surfaced on a jailed blogger's website Malaysia Today over alleged interference in a murder investigations, more claims have surfaced on the same website over allegedly shady defence deals supposedly aimed at our designated PM. Now, how's that???

But, I say BUT....there is complete silence on the "floor" as of now for the very grave allegations. By comparison, the people called to give police statements are by no means committed even more serious offence to warrant such action by the police. Phew...that is really boleh-la!

So, what's next for the country beloved citizens? Brush off the allegations like our bravado current PM? On what assurance that his belief is right and all the allegations are wrong? The people want to know. His yesterday's media statement was akin to saying "they are the untouchables" unless you are outside. So, what HE says is all that matters.

I thought all along 'no one is above the law' in Malaysia!!! This very statement always come out from the horsemouth of our powers that be, whenever they want to "put a banana skin under someone's foot". Know what I mean?

Oh, when the world economy is nearing melt down, Malaysia still comes out unscathed. Are you sure? Yeah, I heard the news on NTV7 yesterday. Again, our PM's statement about it was so assuring. Are you forgetting....what HE says is all matters. So, Malaysia is not affected.

Singapore is already scrambling, US comes out with billions, EU stand-by trillions ready to salvage their economies but....hey, Malaysia no need to do anything! Malaysia is busy on something else of utmost importance as we all know i.e. Who's in, Who's out Competition.

Seriously, Malaysia is shielded by 'denial syndrome' still. Bloody Hell!

Happy Birthday from ACMilan.com

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

I dedicate this lovely birthday cake to anyone who is celebrating his or her 40th birthday in the month of October. MAY YOU BE BLESSED.

Crash Boom Bang

For a man at 40 has certainly grown older and wiser. Can't imagine how a nation has not grown wiser at 50, perhaps, for a nation it is still young.

Somehow as you mature at this 40 age bracket which is the ripe age for a man to have everything in place, at least i.e. stable career and happy family. It can be perceived as a complete cycle. One should look forward to further enhancing his quality life i.e. improving.

Occasionally I have come across people planning a "retirement" age at 40. Certainly not about stopping everything and do nothing. But rather finding the quality time to lead a quality life. Now, that is call living a life to the fullest. Simply put it, it depends on how one does thing or pursue dream of enormous scale that makes the possible impossible and vice versa.

The destiny is always in one's own hand. I'm pretty sure now is time to build on our next generation. Success or failure is depending on how we nurture our next gen. It is not all about us till the end of time. It just can't be right that we enjoy the fruit of labor to the fullest and leave our next gen to fend for their own.

Life is short. But a nation's life can go on for centuries. This again will turn our attention to the current affair in our boleh-land. I can't help it but wanting to take a swipe at the transition of power that is going on and on and on. Because we don't want to see this beloved land goes from "hero to zero" for our next gen.

Put aside our designated new PM, don't really want to talk about him. The talking point here is the DPM, whom could be the subsequent PM in the future if the hierarchy of PM's appointment practised in Malaysia is to be followed through and decided by selected few.

If you read the statements by the aspired so-called DPM candidates, you will certainly spit blood. One of them even has the nose to say he is qualified because he has never stepped on the toes of all PMs!!! This very candidate is himself tainted with alleged wrongdoing. Now, how's that? Hey, we are looking at someone assisting in running a nation-la. Being a 'yes man' is akin to shoe polishing only! I'm flabbergasted.

No wonder they are labelled a bunch of jokers by Dr. M. Boleh-land will be Boliao-land (finished). To be honest, this time it is really of no interest to me, not bother to know who will be and be not - they are just not up to the mark!

THERE IS NO CHANGE UNLESS THEY ARE CHANGED.

The Flip, The Flop

So, after all the flipping, we finally see him flopping for good. But it's not all about the man alone!

As the saying goes, he is still regarded as someone who gives the most "voicing space" to Malaysians, until recently I guess. What goes around comes around! Is his successor the right choice? Well, you can surely say 'NO' because taking the cue from Dr. M's latest statement, our next PM is also seen as indecisive and competency in question. Read this, excerpts from Malaysian Insider.....

....Asked to comment on Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak as the possible prime minister, Dr Mahathir said he was not impressed with Najib's performance as deputy prime minister now.

Dr Mahathir described Najib as an incompetent deputy prime minister because the latter did not have his own stand and was always following Abdullah's advice, hence Najib needed to change when taking over the helm later.

On the possible candidate for Najib's deputy, Dr Mahathir said it should be Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, adding that the other current contenders for the post of Umno deputy president were only "jokers". - Bernama

Does that mean the new PM's approval rating has taken a beating before it gets started? Did he just imply that our next DPM could be a joker??? Now, that's interesting. So, who is the best bet, the most qualified to become Malaysia next PM and DPM then?

Ya, ya, the majority of Malaysians yearn for that someone else from the other side to take office, not from the same old "production line" that give us the clever citizens without a choice. PM's role is not for passing over the baton just like that.

What does that lead us to? Tolerate another 5 years of flip-flop rule? The answer might be bloody 'Yes'. You gather a bunch of party members from one-race party to choose a PM for 25 million Malaysians of all races?

Shut up! This has been the practice all along, one may argue. But isn't time has changed, the political climate has changed too! Because we have seen bad decisions been made and those bad decisions have also made Malaysians suffer. Malaysia choke at progress where it matters most.

The conclusion here is 'we have lost the game even before it started'. Where do we place our hopes from now? If Mr. Clean can't do the job, surely Mr. Not-So-Clean....errrr....well, I dare not hope!

Bye-bye....till we decide again in 2013.

Trip to Kamunting to convey Raya greetings

Pick from Malaysia Today website




















rpk original pic:Susan Loone, animated by anony.

Posted by kasee Monday, 29 September 2008 18:20

I have just been informed by the Bukit Bendera MP’s office that they, along with several Penang-based civil society activists, are planning a drive to the Kamunting Detention in Taiping on the second day of Raya to convey their greetings to the ISA detainees:

Flowers, cards and gifts, if any, will be passed on to Raja Petra and the other ISA detainees to let them know that they are not forgotten on this special day. RPK’s wife Marina has been informed of the event and hope that she will also be able to join us. The Press will also be invited for this event.

Details of travel:

Date: Thursday, 2 October 2008

Meeting Place: DAP Bukit Bendera Service Centre, Wayton Court, Penang

Meet at 9.00am

Tesco, Penang

Meet at 9.15am

We shall begin our journey latest by 9.30am and arrive at the Kamunting Detention Centre by 11.00am latest. Here, we shall link up with those from other places like Taiping and and other parts of Perak.

Those interested, please register or inform our committee member Mr Ronnie Tan at 012-4277883

For the rest of you Selamat Hari Raya and have a safe journey home if you are hitting the roads.

You're Not Alone, RPK.

People's Choice

Pick from Malaysian Insider the alternative news portal....

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 27 — By a small margin, Malaysians think opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim would make a better prime minister compared with Datuk Seri Najib Razak, according to a survey conducted recently by the independent Merdeka Centre.

I would agree with this survey because it's simply a race-based party getting the support from one particular race only.

Coupled with a large percentage of this group of supporters whom may NOT be internet savvy like the city folks, will only read and believe in what the mainstream media write or publish. This will help sway the support. We all know that. Ya, ya, some jerks will come out and deny this survey. Now it's all about "you say your version and I say my version" depending on which side you take.

Just because in Malaysia the yesterday's leaders (many of them) do not know when to give way and by clinging on is causing a lot of wasted time and resources of the country. Some even with "tainted" background are still considered the choice to lead the country. How are we going to progress??? That's is why Malaysia is always playing catch-up with a tiny country down south! We are lagging, as a matter of fact.

Talking about producing 60,000 PhD holders by 2020, will that do any good to the country IF all of them end up "unwanted"??? We have jobless graduates abundant, alright. Spending huge amount of tax-payers' money on so-called re-training programs given by the garmen. Why so? Because we just produce them like a stinking tofu (beancurd) factory, with no substance! The real brains are all either stay put in overseas or migrated!

When we mention the very word MERITOCRACY, there is talk about being unfair because the poor Ahmads can't compete. Afraid of not being able to compete, where in the world you find progress without competition??? Now a minister is "projecting" 60,000 PhD holders (initially 100,000, scaled down, for fearing not able to achieve the target!) in 12 years' time!!! Goodness me. A cheap publicity of sort for him anyway.

Phd of what kind? One may ask this funny question.... So, it is all the same. We are not producing our leaders of tomorrow when the basics have already gone wrong right from the beginning. When the education system can only produce "half-baked" graduates, we can only have leaders of yesteryears!

It is again boils down to the people's choice - do we want to change for the better? Do we have the courage - the people's power? THEY can play 'passing the baton' as much as they like, but WE ALL HAVE A CHOICE TO MAKE. Don't forget, the baton can one day drops off to the ground....like the US relay teams did in the Olympics recently! Hahaha.

We need a MALAYSIAN LEADER. IT'S NOW OR NEVER.

National Security

Well, well, well, crime is rearing its ugly head in my home state - Penang!

If you are following, there have been three petty crimes involving Mr. So & So (prominent figures) wives. One was stabbed and killed. That's not petty crime anymore, mind you.

Why suddenly these petty thieves become so brave and cold-blooded? Are they sensing that this is the time to strike since the powers that be are very busy with "something" else i.e. party election? I think this is remotely true. I'm puzzled anyway!

Can the police swing into action like how they catch the recent four ISA detainees??? One has ended up in Kamunting. Can the police catch these cold-blooded thieves quick, charge and lock them up ASAP??? Citizens' security is NATIONAL SECURITY too! Citizens of Malaysia are afraid and fear for their lives!!! Anyone would feel for the victims and their families.

To the guardians of security in Malaysia, can you please "classify" these brave thieves as threatening national security since they strike fear in the lives of her beloved citizens??? It is of protecting national interest - really.

W*h*a*t*s going on!

Say No to ISA - Sign Online Petition!!!

Calling on all clever Malaysians.

It is long overdue that we do our part to voice our disagreement to the use of this draconian law.

Malaysia is a democratic country. What we know best is to say our piece peacefully. Needless to say much, we all know what's going on in Malaysia right now.

So, make your stance and uphold justice!

Sign the petition to FREE RPK!!!

Say NO to ISA here!!!

Sign NOW!!!

Metallica - Cool Dudes

Sense

Let's learn some English....the word is 'SENSE'.

There are many meaning to this simple word. However, in view of the current situation in Malaysia, political uncertainties, perhaps it is worthwhile to understand this word and instill some sense to those "empty heads" out there.

So, I just pick 3 meanings that best describe the need to use this word in their heads when making decisions that concern Malaysians by and large. Here goes....

i) Sense = Natural understanding or intelligence, especially in practical matters
ii) Sense = The normal ability to think or reason soundly
iii) Sense = Something sound or reasonable

Have you the clever Malaysians missed something here? Or got a good grasp of its meaning? Of the 3 meanings I put up here, surely the general perception given now is THEY are way off track. Citing this 'draconian law' as an example, you still read and hear THEM put out words that go beyond our SENSES.

Without wanting to take side this time, I would hope that anyone that wanted to lead Malaysians must have a great SENSE i.e. to see, hear, speak, think and even smell "what's going on" on the floor. Aptly put it, the GRASSROOTS (the in-word among our political parties, isn't it?).

Sadly, many lack even the basic sense especially when the going gets tough!

Recycle

RECYCLING, it is good to the mother earth, isn't it?

The least we can do in Malaysia. Otherwise the Americans would criticize us for not doing enough to help green the earth. Remember once Malaysia were accused of only chopping down the forest without replanting? I bet many do not remember.

But, how about recycling "dirty old trash"??? Guess who? Of so many Ahmads in Malaysia, that one-lah. Suspended and yet the members are calling him to return as adviser and even have the face to call for lifting of his ban. What in the world is going on? Call it lack of quality leaders you may but still will make a mockery of things to the system. Hell yeah, they have the rights - many too.

This can be aptly described as A RECYCLE TRASH. What are they? A bunch of fools, nothing but the most outrageous fools. When you look at their moronic act i.e. the way they speak, tearing up the poster of a prominent political "member", etc, any wise men would never ever want such person as their leader. But hey, no, it is the opposite. What a shame!

We have seen it long time, isn't it? This particular party always have chief sitting bulls, for umpteen years so long as "you can kow-tow" to the leader. And now they are going gung-ho about arresting people. Many WARNINGS have been sent out. This very word (warning) has been recycled of late, isn't it?

Wahhhh, the rakyat (citizens) must really be scared. RPK said before being taken to no-man's- land, "I have seen it coming". What about those in PR???

My comment on Patrick Teoh's blog

Subject pick from Dr. M's blog....

Quote: "21. The Malays have seen what has happened to the Malays of Singapore and they have no desire to be like Singapore Malays."

The truth is as I have spoken to many Singapore Malays (work-related contacts), is NOT what Dr. M claims. Singapore Malays have NO desire or whatsoever to follow the pattern here. Singapore Malays have dignity and work hard and work smart, they don't like and don't want hand-outs. They are successful through hardwork. Don't believe...crossover to Singapore and talk to them.

Quote: "22. So their reaction is to seek for Malay unity. They feel threatened, and their fear is real. Admittedly there are among the younger educated Malays a few who claim to reject Malay unity. But these people do not represent the vast majority of the Malays."

They don't feel threaten, it's bullshit. If you talk to Malays not Umno Malays, many don't buy the idea that NEP has reached them after half a century of giving. Malays who really work 9-5 jobs will tell you it's better to work and make a decent living than waiting for hand-outs.

As for UNITY, every race concerned can champion their own unity. Nothing is wrong with that. In the end, we all can collectively work for Malaysian Unity. But, stop and look who are behind all the racial talks or become racist???

12:32 PM

A New Malaysia - 916

I followed on internet TV live from Kelana Jaya stadium just now. Since Malaysia Day is never celebrated before, it sounds meaningful to "join" in though not able to be there myself. But it went off air suddenly at 11.12pm.

Still managed to catch some decent speeches made by PR top guns, of course the man of the hour belonged to Anwar. Sounding more like a PM for all Malaysians, Anwar was in his element again, chiding the powers that be.

Also called to thunderous applause from the crowd by Kit Siang, 916 was very much anticipated. The number 916 has become synonymous to change-loving Malaysians. I am no difference.

Like many skeptics out there it still sounds impossible. Giving what they over the other side can do, it is no surprise the PR top guns may just vanish in thin air tomorrow with the draconian law looming as usual.

Let's pray we will have a New Malaysia, if not tomorrow, the day after tomorrow!

2020 Future

IT COULD BE LIKE THIS!

WE ARE VERY ANGRY

Today in the front page news, the Star reported the release of reporter Tan from ISA after being held for 24 hours. I THINK SERIOUS DAMAGE HAS BEEN DONE, again. No matter how you look at it and how the garmen try to explain or provide excuses.

To make you and me puke further, eat this...."HM bla bla bla said Tan was arrested because her safety was under threat; HM bla bla bla also said it was not his decision but that of police to detain the three under the ISA; He denies having anything to do with arrests".

Just lame excuse and illogical word coming from a person who holds such an important portfolio in the garmen. I just wonder whether they need to have brain surgery! When a person's security is under threat, you protect and NOT arrest!!! Protect means MELINDUNGI and arrest means MENANGKAP. So, why is such an arrest and the worse of all evil using ISA on a defenseless young lady??? Moron.

It clearly shows they have no valid reason to arrest Tan. Because I could not even phrase a sentence of what the morons told Tan when they went to arrest her that night. Based on the HM bla bla bla's statement; the morons would have said,"Tan, anda ditangkap di bawah ISA kerana keselamatan anda telah di ancam" (in English...."Tan, you are arrested under ISA because your safety is under threat"). Isn't that so fa-king funny!!!

So, one of the qualified JOKES or JOKERS of the year 2008 in Malaysia would be the above! It makes the world laugh but it MAKES US CRY. Malaysia is not supposed to be like that!.

Internal Security Act - Blatantly Abused

Arrested Sin Chew reporter Tan Hoon Cheng












Seputeh MP Teresa Kok - arrested under ISA


I woke up to a black Saturday, with the front page news about ISA arrest of two others "innocent" people. I believe this is front page news in all major dailies.

The only difference in the mainstream media is this blatant abuse of power is projected right in the name of law. What choice do they have since show cause letters have been send to 3 other dailies for reporting against the liking of .... you can call them whatever in your harshest words!

Kok, who is Seputeh MP and also assemblyman for Kinrara, was arrested over a religious matter concerning a mosque. Does it warrant the use of ISA? Like in everyone's sound mind - arresting a reporter for reporting an incident (the truth) over a perpetrator?

Where is justice in Malaysia? NO MORE.