"...if we cannot be fair to the Malays, then we cannot be fair to other races," says Dr M.
Well said!
Confession is good for the soul. What more when it is the truth!
The truth is all non-Malays are marginalised and second-class citizens!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Man dies while filling up petrol @ BHP Taman Midah: Accident @ Petrol Station BHP Taman Midah
BERNAMA reported on Monday, March 29, 2010 15:11 PM
I couldn't find more info on the Internet when I first read the news on Monday. After reading 'Man dies while filling up petrol' in The Star Online today, I did a search and found out that the accident was mentioned in the Motor Trader Malaysia Forum. Someone posted:
| CCTV here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMgFcKAmXts It looks like Honda Jazz not Hyundai Getz as reported. These news people, if they don't know their cars better dun simply report the model. According to a blog, the lady driver was drunk, not skidded due to accident earlier. http://yobsumo.blogspot.com/2010/03/kemalangan-di-stesen-petrol-bhp-taman.html Looks like the driver could have applied brakes to avoid such accident but she didn't. |
'Quit if you're not M'sian first, Muhyiddin'
BREAKING NEWS DAP leader Lim Kit Siang fires this challenge at the deputy premier as their verbal sparring continues.
Deputy premier Muhyiddin Yassin has been
DAP veteran leader Lim Kit Siang (left) questioned Deputy premier Muhyiddin Yassin's credentials at a press conference in the Parliament lobby this morning, stoking up the heat in a verbal match between the duo and told Muhyiddin to resign if he is not prepared “to admit that he is Malaysian first and Malay second”, in accordance with the 1Malaysia goal.
Muhyiddin had lashed out at Lim in the House yesterday, accusing the latter of not supporting the 1Malaysia initiative and said Lim was not only questioning the special rights of the Malays but was rejecting the difference in race-based identity of Malaysians and the spirit of the constitution.
DAP veteran leader Lim Kit Siang (left) questioned Deputy premier Muhyiddin Yassin's credentials at a press conference in the Parliament lobby this morning, stoking up the heat in a verbal match between the duo and told Muhyiddin to resign if he is not prepared “to admit that he is Malaysian first and Malay second”, in accordance with the 1Malaysia goal.Muhyiddin had lashed out at Lim in the House yesterday, accusing the latter of not supporting the 1Malaysia initiative and said Lim was not only questioning the special rights of the Malays but was rejecting the difference in race-based identity of Malaysians and the spirit of the constitution.
Why does Apco deny working with Israel gov't? Apco did work for Israel in the 90s
Apco did work for Israel in the 90s
KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 — APCO’s denial that it ever did any work for the Israeli government has proven untrue as a Straits Times report revealed that filings with the US Justice Department show otherwise.
The international public relations firm “entered into an agreement in 1992 to provide services for the Jewish state.
“In written queries about the State Department filing, APCO said it worked with another associate company on a project for the Israel government at the time.”
APCO’s deputy managing director B. Jay Cooper said, “The work, which was primarily in the media area, involved acquiring US government money for Russian immigrants’ housing in Israel.”
Cooper went on to explain that APCO “was then owned by Grey Global Group.”
“In 2004, APCO did a management buy-out and cut all ownership ties with the Grey Global Group,” he said. “APCO Worldwide, with new ownership, is today’s company.”
APCO’s own public relations nightmare began when Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim alleged that the prime minister’s 1 Malaysia campaign was APCO’s idea and closely mirrors former Israeli prime minister Ehud Barak’s One Israel campaign.
Anwar had suggested that One Israel was conceived by APCO.
The link, while tenuous, could weaken Malay support for Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s administration.
So far, APCO and senior government officials have denied that it has any links with Israel.
But Anwar, speaking in Parliament yesterday, dropped another bombshell when he said that APCO’s link with the Malaysian government began well before 1 Malaysia.
Anwar also zeroed in on Asero Worldwide, an APCO associate, that specialises in homeland security and is headed by Israeli security experts.
KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 — APCO’s denial that it ever did any work for the Israeli government has proven untrue as a Straits Times report revealed that filings with the US Justice Department show otherwise.
The international public relations firm “entered into an agreement in 1992 to provide services for the Jewish state.
“In written queries about the State Department filing, APCO said it worked with another associate company on a project for the Israel government at the time.”
APCO’s deputy managing director B. Jay Cooper said, “The work, which was primarily in the media area, involved acquiring US government money for Russian immigrants’ housing in Israel.”
Cooper went on to explain that APCO “was then owned by Grey Global Group.”
“In 2004, APCO did a management buy-out and cut all ownership ties with the Grey Global Group,” he said. “APCO Worldwide, with new ownership, is today’s company.”
APCO’s own public relations nightmare began when Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim alleged that the prime minister’s 1 Malaysia campaign was APCO’s idea and closely mirrors former Israeli prime minister Ehud Barak’s One Israel campaign.
Anwar had suggested that One Israel was conceived by APCO.
The link, while tenuous, could weaken Malay support for Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s administration.
So far, APCO and senior government officials have denied that it has any links with Israel.
But Anwar, speaking in Parliament yesterday, dropped another bombshell when he said that APCO’s link with the Malaysian government began well before 1 Malaysia.
Anwar also zeroed in on Asero Worldwide, an APCO associate, that specialises in homeland security and is headed by Israeli security experts.
Four tricky hurdles for Chua, the toughest being shedding his PORN STAR image!
NEWS ANALYSIS The new MCA head may think the worst is over, but the reality is something else.
First hurdle - Legitimacy to rule effectively. Chua only garnered 38 percent of the votes with slightly over half of the newly-elected central committee clinging to factions led by his rivals.
Second hurdle - Distribution of resources such as ministerial posts, key party posts and the chairmanship of state liasion committees.
Third hurdle - Port Klang Free Zone scandal.
Fourth hurdle - Repair the damage done to his public image because of his adultery (added to that, oral sex!)
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Malaysia Losing Talents - NEAC
March 30, 2010 15:24 PM
KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is losing its skilled talent which it needs to drive future growth as many are leaving to seek better opportunities elsewhere, the National Economic Advisory Council (NEAC) says.
Quoting an estimate by the Ministry of Human Resources, the NEAC says in 2008 some 350,000 Malaysians were working abroad, over half of which had tertiary education.
The exodus of talented Malaysia is further compounded by the fact that the education system, despite high capital outlays through several reform efforts, is not effectively delivering the skills needed, the NEAC says in the New Economic Model for Malaysia Part 1 Report released here Tuesday.
"We are not developing talent and what we have is leaving," the NEAC says.
The report says industry players often lament the absence of right skills in the market, suggesting mismatch between the skills provided by the education system and those demanded by firms.
The most recent assessment by the World Bank suggests that firms have become increasingly concerned about information technology (IT) skills, technical and professional skills of Malaysian workers and complaints about inadequate creativity and proficiency in the English language.
The Department of Statistics reports that in 2007, 80 per cent of Malaysia's workforce received education only up to Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM).
Data from the Ministry of Higher Education show that about a quarter of graduates from local universities remained unemployed six months upon completion of study in 2008.
"Even those who secured jobs, almost one third were in jobs at a lower skill level," the report says.
According to MOHR, between 2001 and 2005, the government expended RM415 million on retraining some 40,000 graduates to improve their employability.
"Various programmes to attract skilled talent have been introduced in the past but they have achieved very little in concrete terms. The result is a shortage of dynamic talent needed to push Malaysia into higher value added activities," NEAC says.
The report says better collaboration between private sector employers and universities will help correct the mismatch between industry demand and graduates as well as improve graduate employability.
"Malaysia must revert to sustained and systematic programmes to give Malaysian students the high level of English proficiency required to compete in global market," the report says.
The report says the current system discourages rather than encourages the retention of indigenous talent and inflows of foreign talent.
Constraints include cumbersome immigration and incentive policies which discourage recruitment of foreign expertise along with restrictive practices of professional associations which restrict foreigners from working in Malaysia, it says.
-- BERNAMA
Quoting an estimate by the Ministry of Human Resources, the NEAC says in 2008 some 350,000 Malaysians were working abroad, over half of which had tertiary education.
The exodus of talented Malaysia is further compounded by the fact that the education system, despite high capital outlays through several reform efforts, is not effectively delivering the skills needed, the NEAC says in the New Economic Model for Malaysia Part 1 Report released here Tuesday.
"We are not developing talent and what we have is leaving," the NEAC says.
The report says industry players often lament the absence of right skills in the market, suggesting mismatch between the skills provided by the education system and those demanded by firms.
The most recent assessment by the World Bank suggests that firms have become increasingly concerned about information technology (IT) skills, technical and professional skills of Malaysian workers and complaints about inadequate creativity and proficiency in the English language.
The Department of Statistics reports that in 2007, 80 per cent of Malaysia's workforce received education only up to Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM).
Data from the Ministry of Higher Education show that about a quarter of graduates from local universities remained unemployed six months upon completion of study in 2008.
"Even those who secured jobs, almost one third were in jobs at a lower skill level," the report says.
According to MOHR, between 2001 and 2005, the government expended RM415 million on retraining some 40,000 graduates to improve their employability.
"Various programmes to attract skilled talent have been introduced in the past but they have achieved very little in concrete terms. The result is a shortage of dynamic talent needed to push Malaysia into higher value added activities," NEAC says.
The report says better collaboration between private sector employers and universities will help correct the mismatch between industry demand and graduates as well as improve graduate employability.
"Malaysia must revert to sustained and systematic programmes to give Malaysian students the high level of English proficiency required to compete in global market," the report says.
The report says the current system discourages rather than encourages the retention of indigenous talent and inflows of foreign talent.
Constraints include cumbersome immigration and incentive policies which discourage recruitment of foreign expertise along with restrictive practices of professional associations which restrict foreigners from working in Malaysia, it says.
-- BERNAMA
Will Najib come clean on his 1Malaysia-1Israel-APCO link? Obviously, not!
UPDATED
By Shazwan Mustafa KamalKUALA LUMPUR, March 30 — Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (picture) caused a stir in Parliament today when he claimed that APCO’s links with the Najib administration started well before the 1 Malaysia concept.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak had previously stated that APCO’s engagement came after the inception of 1 Malaysia.
Today, Anwar said that leading figures within APCO were already working for the government under the company Mind Team Sdn Bhd.
“Before APCO existed in Kuala Lumpur, the government had appointed Mind Team Sdn Bhd. This company, which had offices in KL, was led by key individuals who are also senior personnel within APCO.”
Paul Stadlen, who was the director of Mind Team, is now the CEO of APCO based in Kuala Lumpur and the other person, Margaret Kraus, is CEO of APCO Worldwide.
“Now the CEOs of APCO are key individuals involved in major accounts in Israel,” said Anwar.
The Opposition Leader also told Parliament that he had two documents to back up his claims.
According to Anwar, the first document was an agreement signed by the government on Aug 4, 2007 which authorises APCO to “repair” the government’s image.
“It (the agreement) bears the signature of the press secretary to the prime minister, that is Tengku Datuk Sariffudin Tengku Ahmad, which shows how close APCO is to the prime minister while in normal practice, government agreements are signed by government officers only,” said Anwar.
Besides that, he claimed that the other document provided details of the Israeli government’s agreement with APCO to undertake similar tasks to Malaysia’s agreement. The agreement was dated Jan 9, 1992.
“At the time of the agreement, Ehud Barak was the Chief of General Staff of Israel.
“Both these agreements clearly show the role of APCO as a lobbyist, which would warrant, inter alia, the safeguarding of government secrets made privy to APCO.
“APCO is also involved in the advising of a comprehensive strategic communications programme and must keep confidential all information pertaining to its operations. How can we expect APCO to be forthright about its actual role vis-a-vis 1 Malaysia as well as the various government campaigns?”
Anwar also mentioned another name — Doron Bergerbest-Eilon, former head of the Division of Protection and Security in the Israeli Security Agency with the rank of major-general. He is currently one of the international advisors to APCO.
“Can the PM come forward and tell Parliament in no uncertain terms that neither APCO or any of its affiliates, associates or personalities or individuals or organisations linked with them is involved in the 1 Malaysia project?” asked Anwar.
It is understood that news about APCO’s involvement with the Najib administration first surfaced on July 28, 2009.
Back then, The Malaysian Insider had reported on the undisclosed involvement of APCO in the government. APCO was reported to have been introduced to the PM by his adviser Omar Mustapha, who is a partner in Ethos Consultancy.
Later at a press conference, Anwar continued his campaign against APCO, claiming that the proof was the many “similarities” between 1 Israel and 1 Malaysia.
He alleged that the 1 Israel’s campaign focused a lot on health, and even included a 1 Israel health fund. 1 Malaysia too apparently focuses on health and has a 1 Malaysia fund as well as 1 Malaysia clinic.
“1 Israel’s motto is people first. The only thing different with 1 Malaysia is people first, performance now.”
Anwar rubbished claims by Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin that he himself knew some of the leading figures in APCO personally.
“I don’t know what Rembau is up to. Rembau has been the spokesperson for APCO, it’s a very pertinent question here for me to raise, he read about APCO, and took it upon himself to explain.”
It is understood that Anwar has requested that a royal commission be set up to investigate the matter further.
NEM: A market-friendly affirmative action. NEM: Never Ending Malady! 1Malaysia, kononnya!
BREAKING NEWS The government has pledged to take a market-based approach to affirmative action in launching the New Economic Model but is silent on the current practice of racial quotas.
Tawakal hospital visiting hour: 11.00 a.m. - 1.30 p.m. 5.00 p.m. - 8.00 p.m.
Conversation with a 'she colleague' this morning:
she colleague: joshie
she colleague: joshie
Sent at 11:15 AM on Tuesday
me: heya
Sent at 11:17 AM on Tuesday
she colleague: hi. got go visit chong?
Sent at 11:18 AM on Tuesday
me: nope...where is he admitted to?
Sent at 11:47 AM on Tuesday
she colleague: tawakal
anyone know the visiting hours for that hospital?
me: online query lah
Sent at 11:54 AM on Tuesday
Sent at 11:57 AM on Tuesday
she colleague: wah
i cari dari tadi cant get the right link for the hospital
u got skills man
me: 8-)
praise the lord!
8D
sometimes, need to ikut 'link-link'
Sent at 12:04 PM on Tuesday
she colleague: ikut ling ling
haha
Sent at 12:20 PM on Tuesday
she colleague is offline. Messages you send will be delivered when she colleague comes online.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
hehe...so, yes. All I did, to help my colleague, was to google for 'tawakal hospital visiting hour', then clicked on the first result that took me to the Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia and clicked on Website: http://www.tawakal.kpjhealth.com.my as per image below:
Then, when I was in the website, I just searched for 'visiting hour' as per image below:
'Visitor Policies' was listed at no. 21 in the search results:
Click on 'Visitor Policies' and you will get this!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
hehe...so, yes. All I did, to help my colleague, was to google for 'tawakal hospital visiting hour', then clicked on the first result that took me to the Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia and clicked on Website: http://www.tawakal.kpjhealth.com.my as per image below:
Then, when I was in the website, I just searched for 'visiting hour' as per image below:
AG accused of 'prosecutorial dishonesty': ORAL sex OK! Sodomy TAK ok!
He has charged Anwar with sodomy, but not another politician who was caught with his pants down.
Attorney-General (AG) Abdul Gani Patail has been accused of “dishonesty” and the lack of even-handedness in prosecuting Anwar Ibrahim for sodomy.
Anwar's
lawyer Sankara Nair said this in a statement today, in which he
questioned why similar action has not been taken against Dr Chua Soi
Lek, who has admitted to involvement in oral sex.
Attorney-General (AG) Abdul Gani Patail has been accused of “dishonesty” and the lack of even-handedness in prosecuting Anwar Ibrahim for sodomy.
Anwar's
lawyer Sankara Nair said this in a statement today, in which he
questioned why similar action has not been taken against Dr Chua Soi
Lek, who has admitted to involvement in oral sex.
Sankara
did not name Chua, but referred to the video footage implicating “a
former minister of health of the ruling (coalition) ,who has just won
the presidency of his party”.
“The (DVD) has been in the public domain for about two years. The video shows him engaging in oral sex with a woman. He also publicly admitted that he was the actor in the video.
“Indeed oral sex with or without consent is no different from anal sex and it clearly falls within the same Section 377B of the Penal Code under which Anwar is charged.”
(Source: Mkini - Support Mkini - Subscribe to Mkini!)
“The (DVD) has been in the public domain for about two years. The video shows him engaging in oral sex with a woman. He also publicly admitted that he was the actor in the video.
“Indeed oral sex with or without consent is no different from anal sex and it clearly falls within the same Section 377B of the Penal Code under which Anwar is charged.”
(Source: Mkini - Support Mkini - Subscribe to Mkini!)
Ahmad Ismail: I KENA coz BN WEAK. If BN strong, sure tak kena!
UPDATED 5.50PM The Bukit Bendera Umno division has dissolved its exco to force fresh elections and bring back Ahmad Ismail as its leader.
Malaysiakini reported:
Meanwhile, Ahmad also claimed that he had been made a scapegoat because of BN had been weakened since the March 2008 general elections and said:
If BN was strong, I believe no action would be taken against me. But because of the 12th general election results, in order to stabilise the party, I was temporarily sacrificed. But that is okay.
What a confession! Yes, BN became strong and abused the power given to them by the rakyat. It became so strong that it did no wrong! ;) Now BN is still hungry and crazy for power!
RPK's latest posting 'Fight Racism. Register as a voter, NOW!' wrote:
Change can’t happen by itself. We need to make that change. Racism is Umno’s 'secret weapon' and the only way to beat Umno at this race game is to register as a voter and vote racism out of office. So register as a voter, now, and make that change. Only YOU can end racism. Umno understands only ONE language, the power of your one vote. Umno does not fear God. Umno fears losing power.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Oral sex okay! Well done Umno-led BN for accepting Dr Chua as a leader!
March 29, 2010 17:13 PM
Dr Mahathir Hopes MCA Members Will Accept Chua For Sake Of Unity
PUTRAJAYA, March 29 (Bernama) -- Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad hopes that the MCA members will accept the election of Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek as party president."The members have expressed their choice and I hope that the whole MCA will accept it. The loser must accept it and the victor must also accept the loser as part of the MCA.
"God willing, the MCA can run smoothly," he told reporters after closing the "Bicara Negarawan" programme here.
He was asked to comment on the election results yesterday which saw Dr Chua winning the president's post, beating former president Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting and incumbent Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat with a 68-vote majority.
Asked whether the sex scandal involving Dr Chua would burden the party, he said the decision showed that the party members had put the issue behind them.
"If the members are mature, they have to accept the decision of the majority as in any democracy," he said.
Asked on the possibility that others may not accept the result in the context of strengthening the party he said: "We may not be able to accept but it's not our party."
-- BERNAMA
Only 3.7% bumi shares left. WHERE has the rest gone to or rather to WHO?
At a press conference in the Parliament lobby this morning, Bagan parliamentarian and Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng has called for a probe into the admission that RM52 billion worth of bumiputera shares are not in the right hands. Lim was referring to a Bernama report dated June 30, 2009 in which premier Najib Abdul Razak had admitted that the bulk of the allocation is not held by bumiputeras as intended.
The news agency had quoted Najib (left) as saying: "Of the RM54 billion in shares allocated, only RM2 billion worth of shares are left in the hands of bumiputeras."
Lim urged the government to investigate the situation, claiming that the shares are usually distributed to "cronies" of BN and said the government should act sternly against those responsible for the “leakage” of the shares". Also, Lim explained that if the shares had remained in bumiputera hands, the 30 percent equity target would have been more than met.
The news agency had quoted Najib (left) as saying: "Of the RM54 billion in shares allocated, only RM2 billion worth of shares are left in the hands of bumiputeras."Lim urged the government to investigate the situation, claiming that the shares are usually distributed to "cronies" of BN and said the government should act sternly against those responsible for the “leakage” of the shares". Also, Lim explained that if the shares had remained in bumiputera hands, the 30 percent equity target would have been more than met.
MCA has forgiven 'Porn Star' Chua but has the Chinese community 'approved' Chua?
Yen Yen says MCA has forgiven Chua
Personally, I met at least one Chinese man in his late 40s who found Chua a despicable old man and said he was a shame to the Chinese community. Well, that's only one man's opinion. ;)
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Potty training: Is Your Child Ready? 18+ months...Potty training is hard to do
Every effort made to potty train Janson seems to have failed. 8-)
Today, after being woken up by some noise, I got up and went to Janson who was standing near the toilet. Mah-mah was in the toilet, filling the bath tub with water to bathe Janson. She told me that he just poopooed something small and hard on the floor of the kitchen. Then, mah-mah came out of the toilet and Janson went in, waiting to get into the bath tub. Suddenly, I could see his face changing, as if trying to push something out!
'AIYAK!' I shouted when I saw something hard on the ground. It was the size of a sausage, only shorter and slightly bigger!
Janson cried. I was shocked.
He was actually frightened to see an object dropping off while he had his pants on but not his diapers. Quickly, I went to hug him while stroking his head and apologised profusely, saying sorry to him a few times.
Some people have suggested that one of the ways to potty train is a toddler is to let him go without a diaper but with a loose shorts or pants on. Then, let him poopoo or wee-wee freely. If possible, watch out for the 'I-got-to-go' sign. Of course there are many 'tips' out there on potty training but I guess there is no one proven method that works for every child.
I just took a 'Potty Training: Is Your Child Ready' quiz. A para of the result reads:
The average child cannot be successfully toilet trained before the age of 28 months. While girls are often trained by age two, boys may not be trained before three or later. Of course, there are always exceptions.
Hail the new MCA president - first 'PORN STAR' minister certified by Umno
LIVE UPDATES Barisan Nasional's second largest coalition partner MCA today goes to poll today to elect a new central leadership, in a bid to finally put to rest eight months of severe infighting.
6.57pm: Chua Soi Lek has finally emerged triumphant in the race for MCA president after beating his nearest opponent Ong Ka Ting by a water-thin majority of 68 votes. Defending president Ong Tee Keat languished in third place.
Results:
'Porn Star' Chua leading the vote...? Yeah!!! This time Umno will have a good running dog!
Dr Chua leading the vote, insiders say
By Clara Chooi
KUALA LUMPUR, March 28 — Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek is said to be leading in the count for the MCA presidency although the presidential votes will only be tabulated after 5pm.
Party insiders say early indication shows that Dr Chua (picture, centre) is in the lead with at least 1,000 votes in his favour.
He is trailed by incumbent Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat followed by former president Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting.
However, no confirmation this information could be obtained.
Counting of the votes began at about 2pm in the MCA headquarters here after 2,315 of the 2,318 central delegates who registered, cast their ballots shortly after noon.
According to officials, three delegates had not collected their ballot papers.
The extraordinary general meeting was adjourned at 12.30pm by assembly Speaker Datuk Yik Phooi Hoong and delegates proceeded to the building’s foyer for lunch.
A total of 101 candidates are contesting for the 31 posts in the MCA central committee (CC).
The election was called after 21 CC members resigned early this month to protest against Tee Keat’s presidency.
The Transport Minister was elected in 2008 after Ka Ting stepped down in the aftermath of the party’s losses in Election 2008.
MORE TO COME
By Clara Chooi
KUALA LUMPUR, March 28 — Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek is said to be leading in the count for the MCA presidency although the presidential votes will only be tabulated after 5pm.
Party insiders say early indication shows that Dr Chua (picture, centre) is in the lead with at least 1,000 votes in his favour.
He is trailed by incumbent Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat followed by former president Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting.
However, no confirmation this information could be obtained.
Counting of the votes began at about 2pm in the MCA headquarters here after 2,315 of the 2,318 central delegates who registered, cast their ballots shortly after noon.
According to officials, three delegates had not collected their ballot papers.
The extraordinary general meeting was adjourned at 12.30pm by assembly Speaker Datuk Yik Phooi Hoong and delegates proceeded to the building’s foyer for lunch.
A total of 101 candidates are contesting for the 31 posts in the MCA central committee (CC).
The election was called after 21 CC members resigned early this month to protest against Tee Keat’s presidency.
The Transport Minister was elected in 2008 after Ka Ting stepped down in the aftermath of the party’s losses in Election 2008.
MORE TO COME
Saturday, March 27, 2010
1Malaysia must listen to Perkasa! Forget MCA, MIC, Gerakan and others!!!
The ex-PM gives a stern reminder to Najib cannot ignore NGOs which are representing the Malays.
Mahathir also reiterated what former minister Azmi Khalid told Malaysiakini prior to the Perkasa's meeting today, which was attended by 4,000 people that the Malays are flocking to Perkasa because Umno had failed to promote and fight for the Malay cause.
Sex virus spread by oral sex blamed for rise in head and neck cancers
LONDON, March 26 — The number of serious head and neck cancers linked to a virus spread by oral sex is rising rapidly and suggests boys as well as girls should be offered protection through vaccination, doctors said today.
Despite an overall slight decline in most head and neck cancers in recent years, cases of a particular form called oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) have increased sharply, particularly in the developed world.
This growth seems to be linked to cancers caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), the scientists said in a report in the British Medical Journal.
Two vaccines — Cervarix, made by GlaxoSmithKline, and Gardasil, made by Merck & Co — can prevent HPV, which causes virtually all cases of cervical cancer, the second most common cancer in women worldwide.
Many rich nations have launched HPV immunisation programmes for girls to try to protect them from the common sexually transmitted virus before they become sexually active.
The scientists, led by Hisham Mehanna of the Institute of Head and Neck Studies at Britain’s University Hospital Coventry, said that while including boys in immunisation plans was previously seen as too expensive, it may be time to look again.
“We need to look at the evidence again to re-evaluate the cost-effectiveness of male children in light of this new and rapidly rising incidence,” he said in a telephone interview.
More than 500,000 cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed annually in women and it kills around 200,000 a year. Head and neck cancer is the sixth most common cancer among men and women, with about 640,000 new cases each year worldwide.
A recent study found the risk of developing oropharyngeal carcinoma was linked to a history of six or more lifetime sexual partners, four or more lifetime oral sex partners, and, for men, an earlier age at first sexual intercourse.
“Sexual transmission of HPV — primarily through orogenital intercourse — might be the reason for the increase in incidence of HPV related oropharyngeal carcinoma,” wrote Mehanna.
The experts pointed to recent studies which showed a 70 per cent increase in the detection of HPV in biopsies taken to diagnose oropharyngeal carcinoma in Stockholm since the 1970s.
HPV-related cancer was also reported in 60 to 80 per cent of recent biopsy samples in studies in the United States, compared with 40 per cent in the previous decade, they wrote.
Mehanna said the findings had other important health implications. Patients with HPV-related head and neck cancers are typically younger and employed, he said, and because their tumours appear to be less deadly than those caused by factors like smoking and drinking, patients may also live longer with the physical and psychological effects of treatment.
“This means they would need prolonged support from health, social, and other services, and may require help in returning to work,” he wrote. — Reuters
1Malaysia: Malays first, performance now - others second, performance later!
Umno-appointed prime minister of Malaysia of 22 years, Dr M, said this at the launch of Perkasa today:
I am not racist, I love my country, we are not racists ... if we cannot be fair to the Malays, then we cannot be fair to other races
Umno-appointed PM, Najib, shouts in his 1Malaysia slogan: People first, performance now.
It should be changed to Malays first, performance now - others second, performance later!
Friday, March 26, 2010
Media given the boot at Chua's gathering - Chua AFRAID of journalists!!!
Journalists steam at being barred from Soi Lek's dinner party when he is so 'gung ho' over free speech.
Just two days ago, in an article entitled 'Chua: I'm not afraid of Ka Ting', Malaysiakini reported that Chua declared that the word 'afraid' has never been in his vocabulary.
Ex-ISA detainee loses RM2.5 mil court award - ordered to pay RM50,000 in costs
UPDATED 4.02PM Court of Appeal has overturned a rare RM2.5 million award to an ex-ISA detainee following an appeal from the government.
Abdul Malek, who is now parliamentary affairs coordinator for the opposition leader, said the decision would not weaken him and said, "The authorities would use all existing bodies the parliament, judiciary, legislature and the police to maintain ISA. We need to mobilise NGOs, opposition parties and the BN component parties which are opposed to the Act to pressure the government to repeal the Act."
Abdul Malek was disappointed with today's decision and described it as worrying as the assaults did take place but the appellate court simply rejected the High Court findings.
The tenth by-election since the 2008 general elections: MP passes away
BREAKING NEWS PKR's Hulu Selangor MP Dr Zainal Abidin Ahmad passed away this evening at his home in Kajang after a protracted illness. EC will have...
PKR's Hulu Selangor member of parliament Dr Zainal Abidin Ahmad (also the former Selangor deputy menteri besar), 71, succumbed to brain cancer and passed away this evening at about 9.30pm at his home at along the ninth mile, Jalan Cheras, Kajang, paving the way for a crucial by-election in the Pakatan Rakyat-ruled state.
A by-election must be called for the constituency within 60 days, according to election laws,
according to election laws,
A by-election must be called for the constituency within 60 days, according to election laws, after the Dewan Rakyat speaker announces a casual vacancy.
Back to the old days: No Instant Messaging apps, no facebook, no youtube
The company is going to streamline the management of all computers, making them join under one domain - that means, userid centrally controlled. ;)
One of the changes that is going to take place has caused a certain 'disquiet' among the staff. It is a blanket block on all Instant Messaging apps whether web or desktop based. Access to some sites will be blocked as well, namely, Facebook and Youtube.
Malaysiakini wins top media brand award
Top news website Malaysiakini was yesterday recognised as one of the country's favourite brands at the inaugural Putra Brand Awards.
Malaysiakini was picked as one of Malaysia's top six media brands, alongside TV stations Astro, TV3, 8TV, newspaper The Star and global search engine Google.
According to award host the Association of Accredited Advertising Agents Malaysia (4As), the Putra Brand Awards is unique as Malaysian consumers themselves are the judges.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Underdog Tee Keat's election statement - “MCA party transformation plan”
UPDATED 7.40PM He has been told he his "catching up" in the presidential race and vowed to fight to the finish.
MCA incumbent president Ong Tee Keat, widely regarded as the underdog in the three-corner race for MCA presidency, believes that he is catching up with his two challengers, said, "According to the information given by grassroot, the words they are using is that 'I'm catching up'.''
'Porn Star' Chua: I can unite the MCA because "I'm Umno's running dog!" ;-)
EXCLUSIVE
Former MCA deputy president Dr Chua Soi Lek is confident that he can bring back unity to the party within the next one and a half years by being inclusive and listening to the grassroots.
In Part 2 of an interview with Malaysiakini, the dauntless politician revealed that he had no qualms about putting MCA in order should he be at the helm and added that his good working relationship with Umno would strengthen BN and the ties between the two component parties.
In Part 2 of an interview with Malaysiakini, the dauntless politician revealed that he had no qualms about putting MCA in order should he be at the helm and added that his good working relationship with Umno would strengthen BN and the ties between the two component parties.Umno can certainly make use of a man who has fallen from grace.
TM: Confirmed prices for HSBB #UNIFI: 5mbps rm149, 10mbps rm199 abd 20Mbps rm249?????
TM's announcement of UniFi prices leaked onto Twitter?
By Lee Wei Lian
KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 — Shortly after Telekom Malaysia’s new UniFi high speed broadband service was launched last night, speculative prices for the service started to appear on the internet including social networking site twitter.
Telekom did not disclose prices at last night’s launch but will only do so at a press conference this afternoon. However, many people could not wait and have tweeted “confirmed” prices of RM149 for the 5Mbps package, RM199 for 10Mbps and RM249 for RM20 Mbps.
The prices for UniFi are highly anticipated as that will affect the take-up rate of the service. Reactions on twitter to the rumoured prices were mixed.
“Confirmed prices for HSBB #UNIFI: 5mbps rm149, 10mbps rm199 abd 20Mbps rm249. Expect similar upload speed unlike HSDPA. Sweet!” read one tweet.
“- pricey... now i’m thinking if i should sign up after the trial period..” said another social networker.
Possible usage caps, a concept unpopular with power users but typically imposed by service providers to deter excessive file sharing of movies, were also discussed on twitter, with some claiming that the 5Mbps package will have a usage cap of 60Gb, the 10Mbps package to be capped at 80Gb and 20Mbps at 120Gb.
“…Musnah harapan (hopes dashed)…” said one tweeter in response to possible usage caps.
The three UniFi packages launched last night come bundled with IP video (IPTV) and IP telephony. The IPTV, which features 22 channels and video-on-demand, will be delivered via a separate dedicated 8Mbps connection.
The HSBB project was initiated in 2008 and will initially be available in four areas around the Klang Valley: Shah Alam, Subang Jaya, Taman Tun Dr Ismail and Bangsar. It will be expanded to another 22 areas by June and a further 22 by December.
To date, HSBB has completed 311,000 premises passed — meaning that they have the option to subscribe to UniFi. By 2012, TM expects to hit 1.2 million premises passed.
By Lee Wei Lian
KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 — Shortly after Telekom Malaysia’s new UniFi high speed broadband service was launched last night, speculative prices for the service started to appear on the internet including social networking site twitter.
Telekom did not disclose prices at last night’s launch but will only do so at a press conference this afternoon. However, many people could not wait and have tweeted “confirmed” prices of RM149 for the 5Mbps package, RM199 for 10Mbps and RM249 for RM20 Mbps.
The prices for UniFi are highly anticipated as that will affect the take-up rate of the service. Reactions on twitter to the rumoured prices were mixed.
“Confirmed prices for HSBB #UNIFI: 5mbps rm149, 10mbps rm199 abd 20Mbps rm249. Expect similar upload speed unlike HSDPA. Sweet!” read one tweet.
“- pricey... now i’m thinking if i should sign up after the trial period..” said another social networker.
Possible usage caps, a concept unpopular with power users but typically imposed by service providers to deter excessive file sharing of movies, were also discussed on twitter, with some claiming that the 5Mbps package will have a usage cap of 60Gb, the 10Mbps package to be capped at 80Gb and 20Mbps at 120Gb.
“…Musnah harapan (hopes dashed)…” said one tweeter in response to possible usage caps.
The three UniFi packages launched last night come bundled with IP video (IPTV) and IP telephony. The IPTV, which features 22 channels and video-on-demand, will be delivered via a separate dedicated 8Mbps connection.
The HSBB project was initiated in 2008 and will initially be available in four areas around the Klang Valley: Shah Alam, Subang Jaya, Taman Tun Dr Ismail and Bangsar. It will be expanded to another 22 areas by June and a further 22 by December.
To date, HSBB has completed 311,000 premises passed — meaning that they have the option to subscribe to UniFi. By 2012, TM expects to hit 1.2 million premises passed.
What's MCA polls without 'makan'?
For the Chinese community, all major events must be accompanied by a sumptuous meal, be it to celebrate a baby's first month or funeral and the MCA presidential campaign is no exception with candidates for top party posts crisscrossing the country from one dinner event to another - sometimes more than one a night - to touch base with the party's 2,400 delegates who will go to the polls this Sunday.
Last night, Malaysiakini caught up with former MCA president Ong Ka Ting's campaign dinner at a Chinese restaurant with some 400 supporters, mostly from Kuala Lumpur and some from even faraway Labuan, made up the crowd, on Jalan Pudu, Kuala Lumpur organised by Federal Territories MCA. Initially, only 30 tables were prepared but fifteen more were laid out later for the unanticipated swell.
Sure lah. Got free 'makan' sure will go but should this 'makan' culture be condoned? Is it not a subtle form of corruption? Greedy and selfish Chinese who only gaze at their own bellies!
Police 'third force' asked Zulkifli to link 'First Couple' to Altantuya murder'?!!
UPDATED 6.59PM Zulkifli Noordin again stirred controversy in the Dewan Rakyat, this time claiming that he was once asked to implicate the PM and his wife...
Zulkifli said the offer was made during the Altantuya murder trial when he was initially counsel for Chief Inspector Azilah Hadri, one of the three accused. He said, "The reward offered was indeed quite tempting."
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Speaker: Titi Tinggi rep withdraws quit letter - No carrot-and-stick trick, ok!!!
The state assemblyperson for Titi Tinggi Yip Sun Onn has withdrawn his resignation letter through a cellphone text message at about 7pm today., according to Perlis state legislative assembly speaker Yazid Mat.
Yazid told Malaysiakini that Yip had repented from his action (of resigning) and was now prioritising his party and constituents and assured that Barisan Nasional did not entice him to stay put as a state assemblyperson with any kind of offers or promises.
Yazid told Malaysiakini that Yip had repented from his action (of resigning) and was now prioritising his party and constituents and assured that Barisan Nasional did not entice him to stay put as a state assemblyperson with any kind of offers or promises.Why lah, does Yazid need to assure that BN did not entice him to stay with any kind of offers or promises? Must be the perception that BN is corrupt to the core. ;) If not, why need to give any assurance at all if BN is truly clean! ;)
'IGP Musa lied about his law degree' Who will investigate 'Liar' IGP Musa?!
A police report has been lodged against Inspector-General of Police Musa Hassan for giving false testimony about his educational qualifications during Anwar Ibrahim's corruption trial in 1998 by telling the court that he had a law degree when in fact n fact, held a 'diploma in law and management studies'.
The report was lodged today at the Damasara police station in Kuala Lumpur by Anwar's lawyer R Sivarasa.
Photo courtesy of Malaysiakini
DO NOT LET CHILDREN PLAY WITH FLIP PHONES!
Another one of those funny forwarded emails.
A new study has revealed that flip phones can cause very serious side
effects to the reproductive development of young children.
Keep all flip phones out of the reach of children.
Please pass this safety warning on to everyone on your email list.
If it prevents even one injury to an innocent child, it will have been worth it.
Do not delete this message! Forward it to everyone you know.
Do it for the sake of the children.
If you doubt the importance of this warning,
please scroll down...
Abdul Ghapur: But the bait given to Bayan Baru was probably huge, that’s why he jumped -JUMP ZAHRAIN JUMP!
Source: theSun date 20100324 page 06
EC bound by Government Act 1976 (Act 171) Section 10. So, no local polls for Penang, S'gor
BREAKING NEWS The Penang and Selangor governments cannot hold local government elections in their states as local government polls have effectively been abolished, the Election Commission...
Raja Petra Kamarudin now in London! Fast as fast can be, you'll never catch RPK!
Blogger-in-exile Raja Petra Kamarudin appears more amused than upset by renegade Bayan Baru MP Mohamad Zahrain Hashim's contention that he is in cahoots with the opposition - read Anwar Ibrahim - and Malaysiakini.
Zahrain had also alleged that they were up to no good and urged the authorities to investigate them.
“Malaysiakini and I could not possibly be working together,” laughed Raja Petra in a telephone call last night from London.
“How could I be working with them? Malaysiakini and Malaysia Today (RPK's blog) are rivals.”
Malaysiakini had managed to make contact with Raja Petra with the help of Hindraf Makkal Sakthi chairperson P Waythamoorthy, who is living in London.
Zahrain had also alleged that they were up to no good and urged the authorities to investigate them.
“Malaysiakini and I could not possibly be working together,” laughed Raja Petra in a telephone call last night from London.
“How could I be working with them? Malaysiakini and Malaysia Today (RPK's blog) are rivals.”Malaysiakini had managed to make contact with Raja Petra with the help of Hindraf Makkal Sakthi chairperson P Waythamoorthy, who is living in London.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Stay tuned for '1Malaysia, One Israel' next Tuesday, March 30 at 11:30 am!
PARLIAMENT UPDATED 5.25PM Anwar Ibrahim must back up his claim that '1Malaysia' has links to 'One Israel' in the Dewan Rakyat next Tuesday.
PKR vice-president R Sivarasa told reporters in Parliament that deputy house speaker Ronald Kiandee slotted 11.30am next Tuesday for Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim explain to Dewan Rakyat next Tuesday on his allegation that the government's '1Malaysia' campaign was devised by the same firm behind the Israeli regime's 'One Israel'.
PKR vice-president R Sivarasa told reporters in Parliament that deputy house speaker Ronald Kiandee slotted 11.30am next Tuesday for Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim explain to Dewan Rakyat next Tuesday on his allegation that the government's '1Malaysia' campaign was devised by the same firm behind the Israeli regime's 'One Israel'.
DIVIDED MCA polls - 101 scramble for 31 posts
UPDATED 10.02PM While everyone talked about the need for unity, the tension the upcoming elections were generating was unmistakable. [FULL LIST INSIDE]
Malaysiakini reported:
While Ka Ting and former vice-president Liow Tiong Lai have announced their support for each other, former deputy president Dr Chua Soi Lek and Tee Keat have refused to divulge their alignment to any faction if any.
Two hypocrites! Talk about unity, no faction but still say 'I support you, you support me'. I thought party unity comes first regardless of WHO the leader is? These two are making MCA polls a 'personality' contest! ;)
Monday, March 22, 2010
ROUSING SUPPORT FOR 'PORN STAR' CHUA!
Written by Chua Sue-Ann
Monday, 22 March 2010 00:21
KUALA LUMPUR: The battle lines are drawn with Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek and Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai offering themselves on Sunday, March 21, for the MCA presidency and deputy presidency, respectively, in the party’s fresh polls that will be held on March 28.
Chua joined the race in a three-way fight with incumbent Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat and immediate past president Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting, who is making a comeback.
The contest for the deputy presidency is shaping up to be a two-way fight following Liow’s announcement of his candidacy after another former vice-president Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha had offered himself earlier.
Chua joined the race in a three-way fight with incumbent Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat and immediate past president Tan Sri Ong Ka Ting, who is making a comeback.
The contest for the deputy presidency is shaping up to be a two-way fight following Liow’s announcement of his candidacy after another former vice-president Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha had offered himself earlier.
Nominations for the party polls will be held at Wisma MCA here on March 22.
Though the candidates are playing it coy for the moment, the battle lines appear set with Chua and Kong making an appearance together on March 21, while Liow and Ka Ting are largely seen as a tag team, and Tee Keat keeping to his “lone ranger” status.
Horse-trading could continue until the polling day on Sunday and fresh twists are not unexpected, with the possibility of central delegates electing a president and a deputy who have been at loggerheads with one another, and potentially extending the party leadership crisis.
Speaking at a press conference here, Chua dismissed questions about a running mate, saying that he did not “team up” with anyone.
Expressing optimism, he maintained his chances were “as high as any of the other two candidates”.
“Anyone elected as president has to accept anyone who is chosen by the delegates (to be deputy president). This is how we can reduce or eradicate the factions,” he said.
In a rousing speech to his supporters, Chua took a swipe at Ka Ting, who led MCA for five years until October 2008. “It must not be denied that during March 8, 2008 when MCA was under the leadership of Ong Ka Ting, the party suffered huge losses but we see that the organisation is still strong and party members are still loyal and committed,” Chua said.
He claimed that MCA’s dismal performance was due to Ka Ting’s poor choice of “parachute” candidates whom he said were unfamiliar to the voters.
If chosen as party president, he pledged to listen to the grassroots’ views when deciding on election candidate.
After saying that, Chua quipped to his supporters, “I am giving you all more power, why no applause?” before the ballroom burst into applause and cheers.
“This time, your choice of party leader is very important. (The leader should be) tolerant, open-minded and willing to listen to the grassroots and not only one who wants to listen to his own voice,” Chua said, perhaps taking a jibe at Tee Keat.
He told the crowd that he planned to strengthen the grassroots by utilising the party’s assets, including MCA-owned newspaper The Star’s profits, which he said totalled some RM40 million to RM60 million.
“I understand the aspirations and demands of MCA members. I have a strategy of how we can unite MCA members and stabilise the current situation in MCA.
“If chosen, I’m confident we can form an MCA that can encompass everyone so we can move forth as a team and be prepared for the next general election,” Chua said.
He added that he would launch his election manifesto on March 22 but remain tight-lipped as to what he would be banking on to win the presidency.
When asked, Chua said he had already “acknowledged the fact” that his secretly-filmed sex tape, which was circulated at the end of 2007, may be used by “people who will use anything for their own political gain”.
“I give assurance that I will not use personal issues (when campaigning). Each MCA leader has his own weakness. It’s a matter of whether it is exposed,” said Chua, who had resigned from his positions after the video recording surfaced.
Former MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha, who was present at Chua’s press conference, told reporters that he was prepared to work with any of the three candidates who were vying for the presidency.
Kong, who is housing and local government minister, is widely seen as Chua’s running mate but has dismissed such a conjecture.
Also present during Chua’s announcement were MCA disciplinary board chairman Datuk Seri Fong Chan Onn as well as former central commitee (CC) members Datuk Tan Chai Ho and Loh Seng Kok.
Chua’s announcement at a hotel here was met with a standing ovation from over 600 supporters, many of whom are said to have been transported by bus from Chua’s home state Johor.
At the hotel entrance, almost 100 supporters held four banners bearing Chua’s photograph and slogans proclaiming support for Chua’s bid while asserting that the embattled party needed a strong leader to unite MCA rather than a “hero”.
The crowd enthusiastically blew whistles and shouted slogans urging Chua to “fight to the end”.
Chua resigned as deputy president on March 4, along with seven other CC members, adding to the other group of 13 CC members who had also sent in their resignations in a bid to trigger fresh elections for the party’s powerful central body.
According to the MCA constitution, fresh elections for the CC must be held within 30 days if at least two-thirds or 21 of its 31 elected members resign before their term expires. Chua was reinstated as deputy president by the Registrar of Societies (ROS) on Nov 3, 2009 after he was earlier sacked from the party.
MCA’s emergency general meeting on October 10, 2009 saw Chua reinstated as a party member but not as deputy president.
Liow mum Meanwhile, at a press conference also at MCA headquarters that was held earlier to Chua’s, Liow declined to comment on the presidential candidate that he would be aligning himself to.
He hoped that delegates will decide with the party’s interests in mind and based on the candidates’ abilities, instead of factions and alliances.
“I have mentioned in my statement that unity, harmony and stability of the party are of utmost importance; so as long as we have the same direction we can work together.
“I am a team player. I prioritise the party’s stability, harmony and unity. It’s not a slogan but a commitment to my party.
“I am ready to work together with the new MCA leadership to reinforce the party’s position so we can confidently face the general election,” Liow said.
However, he declined to say whether he would be ready to work with Tee Keat if the latter were to retain the top post. “I do not want to comment. All these are wait-and-see questions,” he said.
Liow also declined to comment on his contender only saying that Kong had the right to contest in the polls.
Kong, who resigned from his vice-presidency in February, won the highest number of votes in the last party elections.
To date, only Liow and Kong have announced their intentions to gun for the No 2 position ahead of nomination day March 22.
“It is important for MCA to restore its integrity as quickly as possible. Come March 28, MCA will fully recover its integrity,” Liow said, to applause by his supporters.
Also present at Liow’s press conference were MCA Youth chief Datuk Wee Ka Siong, Wanita MCA chief Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun and former CC member Datuk Chor Chee Heung.
Chor, who is deputy finance minister, on March 15 announced his bid for one of the four MCA vice-president posts after he was sacked from the CC in November, 2009.
Liow was briefly MCA deputy president last year before the Registrar of Societies reinstated Chua to the position following the party’s inconclusive Oct 10 EGM.
A total of 31 positions are up for grabs in MCA’s CC polls, including 25 CC members.
(Source: THE EDGE)
Horse-trading could continue until the polling day on Sunday and fresh twists are not unexpected, with the possibility of central delegates electing a president and a deputy who have been at loggerheads with one another, and potentially extending the party leadership crisis.
Speaking at a press conference here, Chua dismissed questions about a running mate, saying that he did not “team up” with anyone.
Expressing optimism, he maintained his chances were “as high as any of the other two candidates”.
“Anyone elected as president has to accept anyone who is chosen by the delegates (to be deputy president). This is how we can reduce or eradicate the factions,” he said.
In a rousing speech to his supporters, Chua took a swipe at Ka Ting, who led MCA for five years until October 2008. “It must not be denied that during March 8, 2008 when MCA was under the leadership of Ong Ka Ting, the party suffered huge losses but we see that the organisation is still strong and party members are still loyal and committed,” Chua said.
He claimed that MCA’s dismal performance was due to Ka Ting’s poor choice of “parachute” candidates whom he said were unfamiliar to the voters.
If chosen as party president, he pledged to listen to the grassroots’ views when deciding on election candidate.
After saying that, Chua quipped to his supporters, “I am giving you all more power, why no applause?” before the ballroom burst into applause and cheers.
“This time, your choice of party leader is very important. (The leader should be) tolerant, open-minded and willing to listen to the grassroots and not only one who wants to listen to his own voice,” Chua said, perhaps taking a jibe at Tee Keat.
He told the crowd that he planned to strengthen the grassroots by utilising the party’s assets, including MCA-owned newspaper The Star’s profits, which he said totalled some RM40 million to RM60 million.
“I understand the aspirations and demands of MCA members. I have a strategy of how we can unite MCA members and stabilise the current situation in MCA.
“If chosen, I’m confident we can form an MCA that can encompass everyone so we can move forth as a team and be prepared for the next general election,” Chua said.
He added that he would launch his election manifesto on March 22 but remain tight-lipped as to what he would be banking on to win the presidency.
When asked, Chua said he had already “acknowledged the fact” that his secretly-filmed sex tape, which was circulated at the end of 2007, may be used by “people who will use anything for their own political gain”.
“I give assurance that I will not use personal issues (when campaigning). Each MCA leader has his own weakness. It’s a matter of whether it is exposed,” said Chua, who had resigned from his positions after the video recording surfaced.
Former MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Kong Cho Ha, who was present at Chua’s press conference, told reporters that he was prepared to work with any of the three candidates who were vying for the presidency.
Kong, who is housing and local government minister, is widely seen as Chua’s running mate but has dismissed such a conjecture.
Also present during Chua’s announcement were MCA disciplinary board chairman Datuk Seri Fong Chan Onn as well as former central commitee (CC) members Datuk Tan Chai Ho and Loh Seng Kok.
Chua’s announcement at a hotel here was met with a standing ovation from over 600 supporters, many of whom are said to have been transported by bus from Chua’s home state Johor.
At the hotel entrance, almost 100 supporters held four banners bearing Chua’s photograph and slogans proclaiming support for Chua’s bid while asserting that the embattled party needed a strong leader to unite MCA rather than a “hero”.
The crowd enthusiastically blew whistles and shouted slogans urging Chua to “fight to the end”.
Chua resigned as deputy president on March 4, along with seven other CC members, adding to the other group of 13 CC members who had also sent in their resignations in a bid to trigger fresh elections for the party’s powerful central body.
According to the MCA constitution, fresh elections for the CC must be held within 30 days if at least two-thirds or 21 of its 31 elected members resign before their term expires. Chua was reinstated as deputy president by the Registrar of Societies (ROS) on Nov 3, 2009 after he was earlier sacked from the party.
MCA’s emergency general meeting on October 10, 2009 saw Chua reinstated as a party member but not as deputy president.
Liow mum Meanwhile, at a press conference also at MCA headquarters that was held earlier to Chua’s, Liow declined to comment on the presidential candidate that he would be aligning himself to.
He hoped that delegates will decide with the party’s interests in mind and based on the candidates’ abilities, instead of factions and alliances.
“I have mentioned in my statement that unity, harmony and stability of the party are of utmost importance; so as long as we have the same direction we can work together.
“I am a team player. I prioritise the party’s stability, harmony and unity. It’s not a slogan but a commitment to my party.
“I am ready to work together with the new MCA leadership to reinforce the party’s position so we can confidently face the general election,” Liow said.
However, he declined to say whether he would be ready to work with Tee Keat if the latter were to retain the top post. “I do not want to comment. All these are wait-and-see questions,” he said.
Liow also declined to comment on his contender only saying that Kong had the right to contest in the polls.
Kong, who resigned from his vice-presidency in February, won the highest number of votes in the last party elections.
To date, only Liow and Kong have announced their intentions to gun for the No 2 position ahead of nomination day March 22.
“It is important for MCA to restore its integrity as quickly as possible. Come March 28, MCA will fully recover its integrity,” Liow said, to applause by his supporters.
Also present at Liow’s press conference were MCA Youth chief Datuk Wee Ka Siong, Wanita MCA chief Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun and former CC member Datuk Chor Chee Heung.
Chor, who is deputy finance minister, on March 15 announced his bid for one of the four MCA vice-president posts after he was sacked from the CC in November, 2009.
Liow was briefly MCA deputy president last year before the Registrar of Societies reinstated Chua to the position following the party’s inconclusive Oct 10 EGM.
A total of 31 positions are up for grabs in MCA’s CC polls, including 25 CC members.
(Source: THE EDGE)
MORE CARS! MORE CONGESTION! MORE ACCIDENTS! YEAH! Malaysia's auto sales rose 8.7 percent
Today @
Malaysia's auto sales rose 8.7 percent year-on-year in February, an industry group said Monday, as demand picked up in Southeast Asia's biggest passenger car market after the global downturn.
The Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) said sales of new motor vehicles increased to 40,654 units in February, up from 37,386 sold in the same month last year. The group added that it expected sales to continue to rise.
"Sales volume for March 2010 would be better than February 2010 due to seasonal factors" and would "continue the year-on-year sales volume expansion recorded in the first two months of this year," the MAA said in a statement.
Auto sales in January jumped 33 percent year-on-year. The industry group said the smaller rise in February was due to the shorter working month and the Lunar New Year holiday.
"Sales volume for March 2010 would be better than February 2010 due to seasonal factors" and would "continue the year-on-year sales volume expansion recorded in the first two months of this year," the MAA said in a statement.
Auto sales in January jumped 33 percent year-on-year. The industry group said the smaller rise in February was due to the shorter working month and the Lunar New Year holiday.
Hisham praises 6 Umno and 2 Sapp MPs who were set to cross over on Sept 16
Malaysiakini named the 8:
Abdul Ghapur Salleh (Umno-Kalabakan), Anifah Aman (Umno-Kimanis), Bung Moktar Radin (Umno-Kinabatangan), Chua Soon Bui (Sapp-Tawau), Eric Majimbun (Sapp-Sepanggar), Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi (Umno-Batu Pahat), Tengku Azlan Sultan Abu Bakar (Umno-Jerantut) and Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah (Umno-Gua Musang).
The Star reported the 8 were set to take over - 'Zahrain names 8 Barisan MPs he claims were set to cross over'. Finally, The Malaysian Insider reported on the 8: Hisham praises eight BN would-be defectors
'Would-be' or not 'would-be' defectors, there is indeed a BIG question mark hanging over the head of each of the 8. All politicians are chameleons who change according to times and seasons.
Malaysiakini welcomes Dr Asri as new columnist - 'Tinta Hujah' to kick off on March 28
The former mufti of Perlis, well-known for his progressive and forthright opinions, will be starting his column ‘Tinta Hujah' this Sunday.
Anwar given a week to explain 'One Israel' dig. Can PM Najib also explain how he 'created' 1Malaysian concept?
BREAKING NEWS Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has a week to back up his accusations that the government employed a PR firm that came up with 'One Israel' slogan.
At the Dewan Rakyat today, Kota Belud MP Abdul Rahman Dahlan cited Standing Orders 36 (2) to accuse Anwar of misleading the house, referring to a statement last week by the Apco Worldwide firm, which has denied Anwar's allegations.
IGP: 'Third party' intervening in the police force - WHO? Umno? Triad? Goh Cheng Poh @ Tengku?
Embattled police chief Musa Hassan has revealed the presence of a ‘third party’ that is making demands on the police force.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Select committee should investigate Anwar - Rais. Why not investigate Umno-appointed PM for alleged link with murder of a Mongolian?
The Information Communication and Culture Minister said the Dewan Rakyat can determine whether or not Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim had falsely invoked the King and...
The BM version of the Bernama news:
21 Mac, 2010 21:40 PM
JEMPOL, 21 Mac (Bernama) -- Menteri Penerangan Komunikasi dan Kebudayaan, Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim mencadangkan agar ketua pembangkang Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim disiasat oleh Jawatankuasa Khas Dewan Rakyat berhubung dakwaan beliau berbohong menggunakan nama Yang di-Pertuan Agong dan Angkatan Tentera Malaysia (ATM) dalam rancangan 16 September.
Beliau berkata hanya Dewan Rakyat sahaja yang boleh menentukan kebenaran sebenar di mana Anwar harus menjawab semua pertuduhan sama ada beliau bercakap benar atau sebaliknya.
"Dewan Rakyat mesti bertindak menjalankan siasatan di bawah jawatankuasa istimewa dan jawatankuasa khas supaya fakta sebenarnya dapat diketahui," katanya kepada pemberita selepas merasmikan program majlis Pewaris Muda Negara di Felda Pasoh 2, di sini, hari Ahad.
"Ini akan menjadi pengajaran kepada semua pemimpin supaya mereka tidak tunduk kepada kehendak berbohong atau pun memutarbelitkan fakta," katanya.
Baru-baru ini, Anggota Parlimen Bayan Baru Datuk Seri Zahrain Mohamed Hashim mengemparkan Parlimen apabila mendedahkan bagaimana Anwar sanggup mengheret nama Yang di-Pertuan Agong dan ATM bagi menjayakan rancangan mengambil alih kerajaan pusat pada 16 September.
--BERNAMA
Beliau berkata hanya Dewan Rakyat sahaja yang boleh menentukan kebenaran sebenar di mana Anwar harus menjawab semua pertuduhan sama ada beliau bercakap benar atau sebaliknya.
"Dewan Rakyat mesti bertindak menjalankan siasatan di bawah jawatankuasa istimewa dan jawatankuasa khas supaya fakta sebenarnya dapat diketahui," katanya kepada pemberita selepas merasmikan program majlis Pewaris Muda Negara di Felda Pasoh 2, di sini, hari Ahad.
"Ini akan menjadi pengajaran kepada semua pemimpin supaya mereka tidak tunduk kepada kehendak berbohong atau pun memutarbelitkan fakta," katanya.
Baru-baru ini, Anggota Parlimen Bayan Baru Datuk Seri Zahrain Mohamed Hashim mengemparkan Parlimen apabila mendedahkan bagaimana Anwar sanggup mengheret nama Yang di-Pertuan Agong dan ATM bagi menjayakan rancangan mengambil alih kerajaan pusat pada 16 September.
--BERNAMA
BN hanging on to its dear life, needs life support via Makkal Sakti & NGOs!
March 20, 2010 20:30 PM
BN Component Parties Told Not To View Makkal Sakti As A Threat
KUALA LIPIS, March 20 (Bernama) -- Barisan Nasional (BN) component parties should not view the Malaysia Makkal Sakti Party's (MMSP)support for the coalition as a threat to their own well being, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
He said what was important was for solidarity to prevail in the coalition irrespective of whether the support came came from individuals or organisations.
"If we are to look at it solely from the technical aspects, it is we who will lose because in the end, it is up to the people as to how they want to support the BN, whether through the MIC, People's Progressive Party, Gerakan or Makkal Sakti.
"What is important is the objectives, success and victory of the BN," he told a gathering of MMSP members here Saturday.
Najib said the support of the Indian community for the BN had strengthened further following its disillusionment with the failure of the Opposition to fulfill pledges it made to them after the last general election.
Proof of this was seen in the Bagan Pinang by-election last year where the largely Indian community in the state constituency backed the BN, he said.
As such, Najib said he hoped the Indian community appreciated what the government was doing for them like the provision of RM130 million in its two economic stimulus packages to build and upgrade Tamil schools throughout the country.
He said this and other allocations given by the government to the community showed the government's fairness in treating all communities equally.
Besides these, he said, the 1Malaysia concept introduced by him had also attracted supporters and members of MMSP to back the BN because it championed the interests of each and every Malaysian.
"Malaysia Makkal Sakti Party knows the government is sincere in treating everyone fairly and that I am Prime Minister for all races and ethnic groups.
"No race or ethnic group will be marginalised or sidelined in the process of development of the country," he added.
-- BERNAMA
He said what was important was for solidarity to prevail in the coalition irrespective of whether the support came came from individuals or organisations.
"If we are to look at it solely from the technical aspects, it is we who will lose because in the end, it is up to the people as to how they want to support the BN, whether through the MIC, People's Progressive Party, Gerakan or Makkal Sakti.
"What is important is the objectives, success and victory of the BN," he told a gathering of MMSP members here Saturday.
Najib said the support of the Indian community for the BN had strengthened further following its disillusionment with the failure of the Opposition to fulfill pledges it made to them after the last general election.
Proof of this was seen in the Bagan Pinang by-election last year where the largely Indian community in the state constituency backed the BN, he said.
As such, Najib said he hoped the Indian community appreciated what the government was doing for them like the provision of RM130 million in its two economic stimulus packages to build and upgrade Tamil schools throughout the country.
He said this and other allocations given by the government to the community showed the government's fairness in treating all communities equally.
Besides these, he said, the 1Malaysia concept introduced by him had also attracted supporters and members of MMSP to back the BN because it championed the interests of each and every Malaysian.
"Malaysia Makkal Sakti Party knows the government is sincere in treating everyone fairly and that I am Prime Minister for all races and ethnic groups.
"No race or ethnic group will be marginalised or sidelined in the process of development of the country," he added.
-- BERNAMA
Marche @ The Curve - www.marche-malaysia.com
We went to Marche, a Swiss market restaurant for the first time today and had lunch there.
Before entering the restaurant (or market!), we had to 'register' to get the MARCHE GUEST CARD per person. The MARCHE GUEST CARD is for guest to make purchases at the market counter.
We ordered 'Catch of the day', 'Grilled Chicken Breast' and 'Lamb Sausage' and passed the MARCHE GUEST CARDs to the cook. He wrote down our orders on the back of the cards, returned them to us and told us to wait for 10 minutes. While waiting, we ordered 'Mushroom Soup' and 'Teh Tarik' and sat down to eat.
Ten minutes passed and we went to the counter to get our main meal. The 'Catch of the day' with cordi fish was nice though its portion was slightly small for my big appetite. The 'Grilled Chicken Breast' and 'Lamb Sausage' were a bit too much for my wife.
Too bad that I didn't get to take any photos save for the MARCHE GUEST CARD. After reading the message on the card, I realised the MARCHE GUEST CARD is no ordinary card. In fact, it is a Very Important Card for as long as you are IN the restaurant. Guard it with your life. Why? If you lose it, you will have to pay RM200!!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Petronas had planned for future generations...But somebody stole the money!!!
By Adib Zalkapli
KUALA LUMPUR, March 20 — Petronas founding chairman Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah (picture) revealed today that the national oil company had planned to preserve the country’s petroleum wealth for future generations.
The Gua Musang MP said Petronas had planned to set up a heritage fund to which a certain percentage of its oil revenue would have been channelled.
Speaking at a forum on oil royalty here, Razaleigh also said that Petronas had wanted an advisory body to plan the exploitation of petroleum.
“The national petroleum advisory council to advise the prime minister on how petroleum ought to be exploited or whether we should leave the oil underground, that is for the petroleum council to consider and suggest to the prime minister before Petronas decides what to do with the oil resources,” said Razaleigh.
He was responding to another panellist at the forum, law professor Datuk Dr Shad Saleem Faruqi who suggested a trust fund be set up to keep about 25 per cent of the oil revenue for future generations.
Shad was of the opinion that the Petroleum Development Act 1974 “is quite weak” in terms of ensuring the protection of oil revenues for future generations.
Earlier in his presentation Razaleigh reiterated his stand that the Petroleum Development Act was meant to channel some of the oil revenue to the poor East Coast states.
“It is not for us to hoard or to build another Twin Towers or another city like Putrajaya,” he said referring to the two mega projects under the administration of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
Razaleigh also continued his attack against the Federal government’s plan to only pay the Kelantan government a goodwill payment, or ‘wang ehsan’, rather than the five percent royalty as provided for under the agreement with Petronas.
“Wang ehsan is for beggars, like ‘sedekah’ (donation), you can see what has happened to Terengganu,” said Razaleigh.
He cited the case of the collapsed roof of the one year old Sultan Mizan Stadium in Terengganu, built with the goodwill payment, to prove his point on the mismanagement of oil revenue.
“All this is because of bad management. But the real story is somebody stole the money,” said Razaleigh.
While Shad described the goodwill payment as highly questionable and urged the Federal government to use existing laws if it wish to continue making the discretionary payment.
Kelantan is currently demanding from the Federal government a five per cent royalty for oil extracted off its shore.
But Putrajaya has maintained that the East Coast state is not entitled to the payment as the oil and gas are extracted from waters that are beyond the three-nautical mile limit prescribed as the state’s territorial waters under Malaysia’s Emergency Ordinance (Essential Powers) No 7 1969.
The Federal government has instead promised to pay goodwill payment or ‘wang ehsan’ through Federal government agencies in the state.
Terengganu also suffered a similar fate in the year 2000, when the Federal government stopped oil royalty payments after PAS took over the government a year earlier.
Royalty payments to Terengganu were reinstated early last year.
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