Going Back to Feudalism

Back to Feudalism?

The reason why people do away with Feudalism is mostly because of its unjust nature where power and wealth are solely the authority of the so-called royal blood. While the people or the commoner struggle to meet ends the all too powerful do nothing instead they continue to oppress their subjects through countless and sometimes too much duress and injustice. Having absolute power means everything is for them to do as they please. At the end, gradually the mass regain their dignity mostly through education and at present there are on a handful of monarchs left. Mostly are with ceremonial functions only including ours , to certain extent.

Two days ago, out of a sudden and may be to benefit of present situation whereby the mass are getting increasingly uneasy with the government's conduct and performance, a suggestion to reinvent the monarch by giving them back immunity which is taken away almost 30 years ago by the then government lead by Tun Dr Mahathir. Such move in its entirety should not even be uttered in the first place as it is liken to bringing our young nation to the dark ages of Feudalism. There's even a grandiose hope that one day the King may elect the Prime Minister!

Being a loyal Malaysian, I am grateful of what we are enjoying today particularly the freedom of speech though there are still rooms for improvements but we'll be there one day. Such indication to me has ulterior motive and many share my sentiment. I am not questioning what the monarchs and royals are enjoying today but can we really trust them to look after the well-being of the people while they themselves are not even elected in a democratic way? Besides, can they really feel what the commoner feel, see and experience since they are living in luxury. One blogger even compare the royals dwelling with the commoner's with a sharp and direct inscription Istana Raja vs Istana Rakyat.

Recently, the King of Bhutan abdicates in favour of his young son but with a twist- the young king is only a Constitutional Monarch like ours here. Such move is seen as following the trend of giving and surrendering more executive power to the mass. A few months ago when the Nepalese King seizes total control he's overthrown in a nick of times not only because he rules with an iron fist, oppressing the already oppressed public but also because he snatches what the people favour - a democratic government.

Maybe it is harsh and unjust to view such suggestion negatively and let us give the proponent the benefit of the doubt and maybe they mean well and their intention is pure. Such is good as a temporary measure whenever the situation becomes untenable and moving towards chaos then maybe the Monarch has a role to play and I believe that they have the authority. Coming from a Sultan-less state I view the Monarchy as a symbol of unity and a Defender of Islam and I have nothing against them as long as my right to elect a democratic government and to see that everyone is equal before the law are guaranteed.

Immunity means that one enjoys a status above the law - he or they will become untouchables and here comes the problem. We cannot solidly prove that those with immunity will steadfastly protect themselves from abuse of power since we are human and humans are to err. The only immunity belongs to the Creator since He is the All Powerful and nobody can or able to go against Him even if one wants to. Maybe today if we cloth them with immunity, they'll solemnly declare that they'll abide by the law but what will happen tomorrow? The existence of the Special Court under the Federal Constitution is a blessing where the commoner gets legal redress thus ensuring that everyone is protected by the law.

Once Tun Mahathir's bold move to strip the Monarch of their total immunity is criticised by all sort of people but today such move is a blessing in disguise looking at our current scenario where abuse of power and corruption are common occurrences day in day out. Bestowing almost absolute power and immunity from prosecution and legal action will only bring chaos and uncertainty and gradually will jeopardise this democratic nation of ours. Remember, human is to err!

Insan originates from Arabic which connotes forgetfulness

UNite for Palestine?

Kids are better, they play they fight but later they make peace...sincerely

Whoa, all the MP (read the Muslim ones) today agreed and united to debate on the atrocities committed by the Israelis but their united voice is thwarted by the Deputy Speaker, Datuk Ronald Kiandee. Many see such incident particularly the rare united voice by the MPs including the Opposition Leader himself as a breakthrough in the struggle towards unity. About 15 Opposition MPs stand up to support the motion by Dr. Puad Zarkashi ,the Batu Pahat MP.

I beg to differ since the issue is actually a non issue although it concerns with human rights and suffering of fellow human being under oppression by fellow human being. We sympathise the suffering and the hardship the Palestinians are going through irrespective of our race or faith. Indeed, it is heart warming to see all those MPs are talking in one unified voice. But again we can only sympathise and the most we can do or they do is to unanimously agree to condemn such atrocities and that's that.

During Malaysia's tenure as OIC Chairman, we fail just like our predecessors on achieving a final solution to the conflict and even the UN fail to stop the oppression. Even if the MPs managed to unanimously agree on that matter, what really can we achieve by that? Will the Israeli back tremble in their sleep thus back off from whatever they are doing? Oh, because the Malaysian Parliament has decided that it is against international law and humanity, the hardened crooks of the desert will suddenly stop. What a joke!

Those MPs are being childish and foolish and trying to pretend that they are united and can unite. Please do not insult us by your low rate drama. It's so fake and most importantly by doing so you are wasting your time and the taxpayers money by discussing the impossible. Honestly, do you think it is worth the efforts? Those MPs should rather discuss and debate and finally agree to improve, promote and safeguard Malaysians humanity crisis which is on the decline through draconian laws like the ISA. Improve the people life by providing more economic opportunities. These are your main responsibilities in case you do not know or forget who you really are - representatives of the Malaysians not the Palestinians!

In the case of the Palestine, the Palestinians particularly their leaders should also be blamed on the suffering of the people. The people have spoken that Hamas is their choice thus it means that they no longer trust Fatah headed by Mr. Abbas, whom they see as too lenient towards the hard playing Israelis. They themselves need to realise this, they need to unite and most importantly unite under the banner of Islam and not because of nationalism.

It is pure and simple but very difficult to achieve since people are too proud and stubborn. Learn from history how 300 Muslims soldiers managed to defeat a much bigger non Believers army in the Uhud Battle and how Salahuddin al Ayyubi defeated the Crusaders to take over now disputed land , Palestine. Just remember Allah's promise that He will only help those who deserve it, those who obey and fully believe in Him and not a united voice from a tiny remote foreign nation like us!

Dear Malaysian MPs, remember who elected you all to your seats in the Parliament not the Palestinians but us your fellow Malaysians.

Politicians can be very pathetic

Hina Bangsa?

Menghina bangsa adalah perbuatan yang terkutuk namun lebih buruk dan lebih songsang tatkala mereka ini menghina pegangan dan agama. Bangsa cuma luaran namun agama adalah yang teratas.

Absurd!

Now this is interesting, while the government lambasted the Opposition-lead Penang for their multiple language sign boards the Tourism Ministry headed by Azalina Othman Said too is doing the same but arguing that what Penang is doing as shallow. Isn't this double standard and hypocrite? Sure, whatever the government is and will be doing is above questions. For instance using English to teach Math and Science when students are weak in those three subjects for the reason that English is a global lingua franca and many if not all references for Science and Mathematics are in English. Sure, their reasoning is the most logical of all and nobody especially the public can't question the programme while paying for the disastrous programme! How irony.

While the Muslims MP keep on harping and attacking the Penang government they too are busy ruining a very important institution, the Fatwa Council. Wouldn't it be the best if they use their time and energy to safeguard their own religion and teach Samy Vellu, the ungrateful losing former Sungai Siput MP for interfering with Islamic affairs. Sadly, there are VVIP who suggest that the Fatwa Council need to refer anything that involve sensitivity of the public for the Rulers Council to approve. What? This is really absurd since the edicts are exclusively for Muslims to safeguard Islam though Rulers are the head of Islam in their respective states.

Islam has been for a very long time a victim of ridicule, slander, hatred and many other heinous crime and Muslims in this country have been tolerating for the security and well-being of the nation if not because of their ignorance. Its high time for Muslims to stand up for their rights since we are doing this exclusively among Muslims.

I realise the irony of me using English

BIADAP

Dear Samy, keep your mouth shut and behave accordingly!

Samy to meet PM over yoga ban
Nov 24, 08 1:01pm
updated 4.45pm The MIC president says he will meet Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to discuss the National Fatwa Council's ruling on the practice of yoga by Muslims

Now what? The Non Muslims are complaining over on edict SPECIFICALLY for MUSLIMS? The Fatwa@ Edict is exclusively for Muslims and does not effect the non Muslims whatsoever except only for economic purposes as many or maybe majority of their customers to those exercise centres which offer yoga, are Muslims. That is the ONLY reason!

When we try to safeguard Islam which touch their 'right' to discuss, they make it like the sky is falling down but when Islam is the target Muslims keep their silence and worse some are even in favour of those critics!

Ni sudah lebih, sudah biadap dan kurang ajar.

Acceptance

Credibility is being questioned

In Malaysia today, everything is about or at least related to politics and none view a particular matter as it is. There's no longer black is black or white is white instead it is it can be white or it may be black. Sadly, religion itself too is being used and victimised by everyone, sadly the Muslims themselves are influenced by such unhealthy trend.

Not long ago, Zulkifli Nordin the 'riding' MP joined other pro-establishment NGOs in opposing the forum on conversion by the Bar Council. His stand is clear he was only protecting his faith, the religion that he believes in , the official religion of Malaysia and nothing else. Sadly, many see such as collaborating with the Government particularly the coalition leads by UMNO. Few view such a struggle to safeguard Islam.

Now, the Fatwa Council is facing the same and again sadly the Muslims themselves are spearheading the movement to discredit and downgrade the Council. Fine, maybe the Council need to brave and stand up against the corruption and abuse of power by the leaders but can't we the Muslims see their act as what it is - trying to safeguard Islam from being tainted by unIslamic elements. It seems small and to many insignificant but it is something that is necessary.

We Muslims must remember that we are being systematically targeted by our enemies. Never before in our history an edict by the Council is questioned openly by all including the Muslims. Indeed, such open opposition is an eye opener to the reality of today's world. If we are not careful and remind ourselves Islam will lose its position in this country. Why do we have to do Yoga as there are other forms of exercises and further the Council says only the practises involving recitation of the Hindu-rooted mantras is forbidden. Pengkid? Rational thinking males especially will not see any beauty in those people.

Nonetheless, the ruckus and commotion against the Council should act as a reminder and a very valuable lesson to the council to be more systematic and thorough in the future undertakings so that any misconception and misunderstanding can and will be avoided. Insya Allah. In the meantime, respect and accept those edicts since they are from experts.

"Sometimes we need to accept a thing as it is."

What Have We Become?

Ya Allah, protect and safeguard our faith to You

As I expected, many view the move by the Fatwa Council to ban pengkid and yoga are opposed by many but then we have to accept this differences though it is very regretful and disappointing. The former Malaysia Aids Council? herself shares her disappointment over the fatwa by saying that there are other glaring and obvious instances where the Council can function or contribute effectively instead of grandiosing over matters like yoga for instance. She further adds that malaise such as bribery and abuse of power are instances where the Council should be more proactive.

Yet, the examples she provides are clearly banned and prohibited in Islam thus the Council in my humble opinion need not divulge on them anymore than it is necessary but issues like pengkid and yoga are still considered new and thus necessitates further counter measures. Nonetheless, the statement by the dreaded SIS by questioning some part of the fatwa which is obscure like is wearing pants by woman considered as against Islam is certainly welcome to make the fatwa impeccable and hence acceptable to all.

Nonetheless, questioning the credibility and qualification of the Council and by saying that the ban on pengkid as something uncalled for by well-educated members of the SIS. For sure the Councillors are qualified particularly on matters pertaining to Islam as compared to those in the association who does not even see covering their aurah as necessary. Who should we believe and trust - those who are well versed and at the same time practised steadfastly what they know and preach as compared to those who are well versed in Islam (doubtful though) but seems to be selective in practises? I don't think they are even qualified to speak in such matter as they narrowed the issue as being discriminating against woman.

This is not a gender issue but this is an issue of vital importance transcending everything - the issue of safeguarding and promoting one's religion. We need to remind ourselves that Islam looks and treats male and females justly and by justice I mean putting the thing at its rightful place and not to be confused with equality. Equality itself is not just and what we need is justice. Just take this analogy as an example - two persons are asked to share a plate of fried rice but only one of the two is hungry while the other is full, based on equality both will be given equal share of the meal but that is not justice since one of them need the meal more than the other. If we divide the food equally it may lead to waste and this is again unjust especially to the one who is hungry.

These are only the tip of the huge iceberg when we think too liberal. We tend to give excuses to the extent of sacrificing the only thing that makes our lives proper and systematic. It is very unfortunate and scary when common people questioning the wisdom of the experts. Suddenly, I remember a hadith of Prophet Muhammad SAW in which inter alia he said that one of the signs of the imminent Judgement Day is when people start to question the knowledgeable and when the trust on safeguarding the religion is shouldered by those without knowledge. It is happening!

"Contrary to some Beliefs, Religion is not intoxicating it is a way of hollistic and blessed life"

The Thing About Yoga

Today, the National Fatwa Council has decreed that practise of full yoga is forbidden since it combines with elements of worship. It concludes that the practise which necessitates the mantra to achieve inner peace is particularly damaging to the Islamic faith.

Yoga which consists of three part and the recitation of the mantra to achieve inner peace is a major part of the so-called exercise and evidently and logically any invocation of other hidden power for any purposes in Islam is clearly forbidden. Hopefully, the Muslims will accept this without precondition by saying that there are many practises in Islam today that originate or have their roots in Hinduism etc. If we know that certain practises have their roots in other kind of worship then the best way is to avoid them entirely. Stop giving excuses since we know and we truly believe that Islam is the Perfect and the only faith accepted by Allah. Many will thus say I am being narrow minded to touch and defend such 'petty' issue. Never mind, we have our differences but to say such as petty is totally uncalled for since little thing leads to huge and uncontrollable disaster if we don't take necessary precaution to prevent it from growing into a regrettable disaster.

It is sad when we tend to give excuses when it suits us but when it doesn't than we become strongly against it. Such has happened to me before and I am saying this out of experience and I am not against anyone here. Islam itself is a religion of advice and what I am doing as far as I realise is to impart what little I know about this religion of ours. I am not being clever here or being overzealous but lets face the music with an open heart.

We need to remind ourselves always that the world we are living is full of things that make us forget of what we are supposed to do. Life is some kind of a test, a very onerous and long test for our place in the Hereafter.

I am not being narrow minded as I believe religion is something that we cannot compromise for whatever reasons. The Fatwa is proclaimed not just an afterthought but a very meticulous process by experts and by experts I mean those who are well versed in Islam unlike me and you.

"The end does not justify the means"

POWER CRAZY!

Look at her

Power can really intoxicate especially when we forget that it comes with heavy and onerous responsibility and for the Muslims it is one of the things that we'll be accounted for during the Day of Judgement.

We have seen instances where people cling to power until the very last of their breath like Hitler, Mao Tze Dong and countless others who rather die than transfer the rein to others. Our leaders too have suffered from similar malaise though there are apparent and obvious signs that they are past their time.

MIC President and UMNO Wanita Chief perhaps the latest addition to countless number of leaders who are intoxicated by power. After losing his Parliamentary seat which he claims he'll never lose, to an unknown minnow, the 'mighty' President is still claiming to power though many of his contemporaries have long gone. While for the Iron Lady she is so stubborn and now she wants to be there until 2011 and maybe beyond since the transition plan is off. Well, once she sarcastically says that she is still an MP and the BN Wanita Chief but she has been left out cold from the Cabinet while those who lost in the last GE or those who do not even contest are instead appointed to the Cabinet. What a power- crazy statement from a maybe senile lady.

Fortunately, not all posts are elected therefore not all of us are infected by the power craze bug. But if we realise that any posts be they elected, tenured or until retirement, come with responsibility to the public we shouldn't worry to much of being power crazy.

Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. - Lord Acton

Wannabe...

When she first become the Wanita Chief, she too go against her former Chief

Do you possess the following characteristics and attributes?

1. Cunning


2. Intelligent


3. Brave


4. Courageous


5. Determined


6. Appear to be trustworthy and honest


7. Thick skin


8. Shameless


9. Adventurous


10. Resourceful


11. Wish to be rich

Then maybe you can consider applying for, choosing a career in...... P.O.L.I.T.I.C.S

DOOMED GOVERNMENT

Have Courage to Stand Up for the People!

If we look around us there are many glaring instances where the government is hapless and helpless in protecting and promoting the public welfare. At times, the government seems to beg for others to do something rather than using what they have and rightfully within their jurisdiction to compel others to tow the line.

Ironically, they do not even think twice to impose authoritarian and draconian laws against the public who elect them. There are instances when they unashamedly using the dreaded ISA against simple and petty cases - by simple I mean there are abundant of laws which the government can resort to in those cases but instead they take the shortcut by invoking a very unjust legislation.

When it comes to compelling the business entities to reduce prices and improve services among others they claim and seem helpless. They say that it is beyond their power. Now, by January the government has decided to reveal concession agreements with toll operators which have been the talk among suffering public because of burdensome effects on them caused by the lopsided nature of such agreement. Today, the Work Minister in the Parliament claims that the government cannot compel the concessionaire to shift toll posts which are causing congestion and traffic jams. What kind of agreement is that? Just because they build state of the art roads (doubtful though)they seem to have the upper hand stepping aside the welfare of the public who are the tax payers.

What kind of government we have right now? Any right minded and rationale people will be able to see any discrepancies, loopholes and injustice just looking at the terms of those agreement. Under tort, the public has legitimate expectation that the government will look after their welfare and well-being and not inflicting sufferings or hardships.

It seems that the government is incompetent and impotent to uphold and protect the public at large by conceding too much to these ungrateful business entities. What we have done to deserve a weak government?

We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office.- AESOP

Siapa Kita Nak Lawan Dia?

“Majlis Fatwa ni keluarkan hukum berlandaskan Al-Quran dan Hadis dan Al-Quran itu datang daripada Allah. Allah yang cipta manusia dan alam dan dia tentukan hukum untuk manusia.

“Siapa kita ni sampai nak lawan dia (Allah). Handal sangat kita nak lawan Allah?,”



Mutakhir ini, semakin ramai umat Islam yang terang - terangan menentang hukum agama atas apa juga alasan dan ini amat menakutkan. Maknanya, Akhir Zaman semakin hampir. Saya bukanlah seorang yang arif dalam agama namun syukur atas pengetahuan yang sedikit terkersan juga tanda - tanda kiamat yang disebut dalam Hadis.

Isu - isu Pengkid dan Yoga antara yang menhadi kontroversi sama ada kita sedar atau tidak. Tindakan sesetengah pihak (mungkin juga disertai umat Islam) menentang fatwa mengenai pengkid seperti KataGender dan FoodsnotBombs amat dikesali dan mengerikan. Kini, warga Malaysia dalam mengejar kemodenan dan kemewahan tergamak menentang fatwa. Siapa kita untuk menentang mereka yang arif dan alim dalam urustadbir agama? Sekadar logik akal sahaja jauh dari mencukupi untuk memahami hukum - hakam. Dengan logik tidak mungkin kita memahami dan mempercayai roh, alam ghaib dan sebagainya.

Yoga walaupun hanya perbuatan fizikal misalnya namun para alim ulama lebih mengetahui dan pastinya ramai yang sedar menjauhi perbuatan dan perkara syubhah lebih baik daripada menghampiri dan melakukannya. Al - Quran ada menyebut arak itu ada kebaikan namun keburukannya mengatasi kebaikan. Prinsip menjauhi sesuatu yang tidak pasti seperti dalam perintah Allah ini wajar jadi pegangan.

Sajak Kematian yang turut menjadi kontroversi satu lagi petanda Akhir Zaman. Mengapa perlu gusar pada kematian sedang kematian itu perkara yang pasti, tua atau muda kenapa perlu dipersoal? Bukankah lebih baik mendidik anak - anak dari awal tentang tanggugjawab mereka agar mereka sedar dan tidak lalai. Lebih baik fobia akan seksaan kubur daripada langsung tidak mengetahui.

Dunia kian ganjil tatkala terbaca suatu entri kenalan blog dengan tajuk "Sajak Kematian Menginsafkan". Penulis seorang bukan Islam namun terlontar darinya kesedaran dan keinsafan tentang maut. Tulisannya benar - benar menyentap rasa hakikat seorang Muslim yang banyak 'tersasar'.Maut yang pasti, wajar kesedaran itu dikongsi sama oleh kita yang Islam dan bukannya fobia lantas memberi pelbagai alasan untuk 'mengharsmkan' CD tersebut.

Sekali lagi, saya bukan yang arif dan alim tentang agama dan bukan juga Muslim yang terbaik namun terpanggil untuk berkongsi. Walang melihat mereka yang lebih arif mendiamkan diri malah menentang. Di mana suara Sisters in Islam misalnya tentang isu pengkid? Dalam setiap perkara ada batasnya tambah lagi dalam soal agama dan pegangan, kelonggaran yang diberi bukan lesen untuk menentang suruhan agama. Bukankah Islam itu Syumul dan sarwajagat, mengapa perlu ditentang sedang janji Tuhan sudah terpahat?

Siapa kita untuk menentang, hebat sangatkah kita nak lawan Allah?

Terkenang Semasa Dulu II

Most realise and know that we need to learn from the past to build a better and brighter future but oftentimes we forget the statement and thus we keep on repeating the mistakes all over. Often, we are too lazy to refer to history and the people who create history though we used to say their names. This happens to one of greatest talent in our music scene in the 1950s.

Music is really not my field as I just listen to them but seldom remember the singer or even the titles but when it comes to little known personality then I'll try my best to find out more about that personality including those in the music scene. We used to listen to songs by R. Azmi but little or none is known about him.

What is so special about him? None actually except for his tragic life story. Born into a royal family, R actually is Raja in Perak. He travels up to Singapore to pursue his dreams in music. He's a contemporary of P.Ramlee but fate or is is his undoings lead them separate ways the latter achieves greater height in his career but the former succumbed to life of the insignificant and forgotten though his contribution is as important as the late Tan Sri.

His immense love for arts and music lead to his poor life towards the end and this is one thing that we should remember and always remind ourselves to prepare for the uncertain future. We should not become too obsess with something though we love it very much just like the late R.Azmi. He is too me is a true lover of music since if we look at his lyrics they are very poetic and his voice strengthen his songs.

Though he and many others died an unsignificant deaths but their uncomparable struggle and drive to achieve and gradually die for the things that they love is something that we need to remember and emulate to achieve greater height. Al - Fatihah for Raja Azmi Raja Ambiah (1923 - 1974).

Terkenang semasa dulu, hati ku merasa rindu

Hatiku Merasa Rindu...

Melungsuri laman sesawang sahabat - sahabat terlihat dan terbaca entri yang nostalgik, tentang kehidupan masa lampau. Terpanggil untuk menulis tentang mauduk yang serupa tetapi idea tidak kunjung tiba.

Sore ini, semasa melungsuri YouTube, teringat seorang penyanyi lama, seorang yang mungkin tidak ramai yang mengenali. R Azmi, nama seniman yang mungkin tidak ramai yang tahu namun seni kata lagu - lagu dampak ringkas namun kiranya dihayati dampak nyata mesej yang ingin disampaikan. Mudah ringkas penuh bermakna. Suara gemersik mendayu - dayu tambah meruntun rasa.

Tiada yang lama mana mungkin ada yang baru. Terkenang semasa dulu, tika kanak - kanak tiada gundah meruntun rasa, hati gembira sepanjang masa

Terkenang semasa dulu
Hatiku merasa rindu
Mungkinkah dapat bertemu
Padamu cahaya mataku

Terkenang semasa dulu
Hatiku merasa rindu
Mungkinkah dapat bertemu
Padamu cahaya mataku

Masa berganti masa
Hatiku tidak lupa
Ooooooo

Terbayang di ruang mata
Wajahmu datang menjelma
Mengapakah aku kau goda
Merana sepanjang masa

Terkenang semasa dulu
Hatiku merasa rindu
Mungkinkah dapat bertemu
Padamu cahaya mataku

Miskipun hatiku rindu
Ingatan waktu yang lalu
Ooooooooo

Tetapi itu hanya mimpi
Tak akan menjelma lagi
Kurasa lama yang sepi
Menangis aku menanti

Terkenang semasa dulu
Hatiku merasa rindu
Mungkinkah dapat bertemu
Padamu cahaya mataku

May The Force Be With You!

Let me begin this entry with a silly sounding question, but please don't ignore and belittle the question since it is very significant to all Malaysians. How long we have been together as Malaysians? According to historical fact, we have been together for about 45 years. Many have been born and died for this nation, yet many still don't feel like they are Malaysians since they have been treated or to be exact they have been mistreated by their so-called brothers.

Today, the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA), the governing body for medical practitioners questioned the Health Ministry's policy to assign Sabahans to do their housemanship in Sabah by saying that Peninsular too is facing shortage of doctors. From a narrow point of view such reasoning may hold water in terms of those trainees' choice of housemanship but as we have already know and I admit I am a bit ashamed of it that Sabah despite of its size and natural resources, is and still is the poorest state in Malaysia. Not just among the poorest but THE POOREST!

Therefore it is only right for them to be trained and assigned in their home state in order for them to understand and feel the dire situation face by their 'families' here in this poorest state in Malaysia. Though they are just doing their housemanship but they are in reality contributing towards improving the lives of many people, their own flesh and blood and not just strangers. Maybe they have been away for too long thus it is only appropriate for them to get reaquinted with their roots- to see the hardship and sufferings of their own people.

On another issue, the government's decision to build petrochemical related inustries in Sabah is certainly welcomed but many including Backbenchers in Sabah are still sceptical on the move since mere political promise even by the PM is not a solid guarantee that it will become reality since we have precedents where promises are reneged by stubborn subordinates and those who give the promises turn the other sides pretending that they never made the promises.

It is indeed heart breaking and dissapointing to see and feel partners being marginalised though from historical and political facts Sabah is an integral part of the power held by the BN since 1963 without which UMNO in particular will not be able to hold unto the power it currently enjoys albeit its shaky situation.

We are only asking for what really belong to us from the first day Malaysia is established and for many years we have to endure being marginalised in many ways though it may resulted from our own undoings but being Muslims those in BN should know the importance of keeping their promises and the call for justice and avoiding discriminations. To all Sabahan MPs and fellow Malaysians keep on your struggle to point out the right ways.

Wither Justice?

Chief Justice Of The Federal Court, Malaysia

The Right Honourable Tan Sri Dato' Seri Zaki bin Tun Azmi P.S.M., S.S.D.K., P.J.N., D.S.M.T. (Terengganu), D.S.D.K.(Kedah), J.S.M., K.M.N.

Ketua Hakim Negara yang baru dilantik Tan Sri Zaki Tun Azmi berkata, beliau seboleh mungkin akan mengelak daripada mendengar kes-kes melibatkan Umno apabila ia dibawa ke mahkamah memandangkan beliau pernah mewakili parti itu sebagai peguam. - Utusan Malaysia

The above is an excerpt of an exclusive interview betwen the new Chief Justice and Bernama yesterday. The excerpt reflects his high hope that he'll be seen as impartial and most importantly as someone with integrity and such response to quell doubts is something which everyone, every Malaysians hopes and waiting for. But, the question is will he able to since the post is offered by the Prime Minister, the President of the party he's affiliated to before his appointment first as the President of the Court of Appeal.

As I've written before, trust is sacred and paramount once you lost it then it will take forever to redeem it back. I am not saying that His Justice is not trustworthy but his previous (and maybe still is) with the party which has been barred by one of his peers, the late Tan Sri Harun M>Hashim. Indeed, his situation is perhaps nobody will envy because all eyes will be on him 24 hours, trying to see whether he is up to his oath.

In the excerpt he vows not to deal with any cases involving UMNO as long as possible but by saying so he is limiting himself in his function and duty as man of the law. What is the use of someone who cannot disperse justice without fear or favour? His appointment to me and to many is a political ploy, a very mischievous and cunning on the part of the government to foil its own wish to improve the image of the Judiciary. There are a lot of qualified and experienced judges on the bench as well as private practitioners who are more than capable of shouldering the onerous task. Why him and why continue to dwell in controversy while at the same time the government has been harping and promoting its desire to improve the Judiciary.

A Chief Justice must be someone who does not only possess the experience but must also be someone who is considered above the rest since he is there to disperse justice. Justice must not only be served but it must also be seen. Such simple logic should be in the mind of the prime minister before proposing any names to the Council of Rulers for approval.

In view of the current situation, it is highly doubtful that His Justice is able to dispense justice although he is really trying to do so. Pity him.

Liberty, equality - bad principles! The only true principle for humanity is justice; and justice to the feeble is protection and kindness.

Changing We Are

Are all Malaysians equal?

Today the most popular word is perhaps CHANGE. Everywhere and every time particularly among those politically savvy such is the topic of the day especially after Obama won the US Presidency two days ago. Of those who become enthusiasts of talking and discussing and more importantly demanding changes are those from the Opposition or their sympathisers.

The Americans have forsaken colour when they decided to elect an African American as their 44th President and McCain graciously offered his congratulation to his opponent and promised to work closely with him. Such is not the case in Malaysia since the Opposition feel or so they think that the whole election process is tainted and influenced by the ruling government, a typical case for a third world nation like ours. The proofs aren't lacking but the present government seems oblivious to those discrepancies.

The aftermath of the recent 12th GE is the emergence of a second political base, an alternative to the existing BN. In fact, initially this Opposition front was popularly known as the Alternative Front but they have since re branded themselves and today they are the People's Pact. In view of the recent trend in information technology the public has the opportunity to analysis the views, stand and performances of both sides. Incidentally, the call for changes in its diverged folds is gaining force but let us be frank and honest - are we really for these changes we have been talking? Remember, the Americans take more than 1000 years for the changes they are doing now.

Are we ready to relinquish some or even all perks and privileges that we have enjoyed forever? Are we willing to sacrifice everything that we have steadfastly protect? What about 'Malay Supremacy'? Some might not be open to the changes as some think that the Malays being the sons of the soil, the natives of this land have nothing left except for political power which includes some privileges according only to them and in certain cases shared with the natives of Sabah and Sarawak. We have been enjoying all these for so long we can't remember when and how they begin.

But perhaps we mistakenly lead to understand that we, the mass or the majority are enjoying these privileges. The fact is that we are like our non natives brothers, we do not have the privileges as some even the natives are living day by day not knowing whether they will be eating tomorrow. All the privileges are in reality enjoyed by only selected few and those that we are enjoying are actually only a small part of the whole picture. This is especially true to Sabah particularly. The decision by Petronas to channel gas from Sabah to Sarawak instead of processing them here is a very clear example of how Sabahans are being treated and yet our so called leaders pretend that it is not happening or even worse just because they belong to a dominant party in the ruling coalition they prefer to attack their fellow peers by saying that they are acting childish and irrational.

Ultimately, are we ready for those changes?

Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.

Leo Tolstoy

Learn From The Americans

Hail Malaysia!

Finally, Barack Obama won the most keenly anticipated Presidency election. It takes America hundred of years to put an African American in the White House. Being the first to be in such a high and important office, everyone around the world will steadfastly observe his steps since he creates such a humbling history in a time where leadership is urgently needed to pull America and the world out of another promising economic disaster after 1998.

With his election ,the world has moved progressively towards globalisation where the mass is no longer tightly associated with race and faith. He was once a Muslim as his father is one (doubtful though) but most importantly he is familiar with the East and Asia in general therefore his approach towards this region may not be the same as his predecessor. Nonetheless, many doubt that America's stand in the Middle East conflict will greatly changed since Uncle Sam is forever aligned with the Jews.

Malaysians can really learn from his election. His election symbolises a core principle of Islam - everyone is equal before Him subject to their belief in Him and their deeds here in this world. Many especially those old timers I am sure are not keen about his election as it reflects the public growing and apparent change towards supremacy of certain race. Indeed, to certain extent we are ahead of the Americans by looking at the 12th GE results. Malaysians are now more open to changes and those who are considered as dominant are now realising the importance and significance of a true power sharing concept - that this country is not exclusive to certain race or colour.

The growing popularity of the People's Pact is a proof of this progress. Although certain issues are better left untouched since they are already enshrined in the Constitution but we Malaysians need to realise that what we are doing in terms of unity is actually artificial. We visit each other during Hari Raya for instance but we never really understand their culture and needs though we claim that we know and understand.

Perhaps, the victory is most significant to us Malaysians to be brave and welcome changes in the next general election. His win should spur out resolve and commitment towards everlasting change to a new height where West and East Malaysia stand as equal partners unlike what we have today where Sabah and Sarawak despite being rich in resources but still lag behind particularly Sabah in terms of development.

What the Americans finally accept takes them hundreds years but we can in only 50 years or so. We should not wait too long for such changes and we must move forward immediately in the spirit of Malaysia Boleh to change the present failing administration.

Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat: Malcolm Forbes

Blessed Nation

Will you be blessed by the gtace of Allah?

Congratulations to the new UMNO President, DSNTR for winning the seat uncontested. Being a son a former PM and his own vast experience in the government starting as an MP and then being the youngest Menteri Besar, cabinet minister and finally as a Deputy of the PM certainly qualifies him to be the President and eventually the next PM of Malaysia.

In terms of his experience, he is indeed qualified to be the PM and hopefully by the grace of Allah, he'll be able to deliver and fulfill his onerous obligation in leading this blessed nation ours in tumultuous future at least until his time is up. Never before in the history of this young nation having a very controversial and scandalous figure to head the government. Behind his soft appearance, he proves to be a harden and stubborn politician. He has since his involvement in politics been linked to numerous and eye opening controversies but those involving Altantuya, Scorpene and now Eurocopter are the most significant and thus can't be easily brushed aside.

Although he has vehemently deny his indirect or direct involvement, he fails miserably to deflect the attention and now many are excited to see his style of governance. Many while admitting his excellent job in improving the life of servicemen but are wary of stand on ISA since many see him as TDM protege who as we know is not ashamed of manipulating the laws for his so-called stability and security of the nation.

What some feared and myself included is the future and fate of Malaysia since we willingly or unwillingly have chosen a figure with ambiguous morality to head the government. What will become of Malaysia if we continue to turn blind towards morally ambiguous leaders to lead us. Leaders are supposed to be the reflection of great leaders with impeccable morality and not those who are merely experienced but morally blurred.

Nonetheless, lets us pray that those leaders we have duly elected realise the burdensome obligations that come together with attractive perks. Hopefully, they will always abide and remember the concept of Amanah in dispersing their duties.

" A blessed nation is a nation with blessed leaders"

TRUST NO MORE

Once tainted, trust takes a very long and hard time to recover

Yes...finally justice has been duly served in accordance with the whims and pleasure of certain people and in the end once again the judiciary has to accept the fact that it has become the lowest of the lowest and none will be able to save them, at least until there's a drastic change to the government.

The PM's wish to clear and clean the image of the judiciary will forever doomed and look upon by the public sceptically as trust is no longer there. Once trust is betrayed it will never be regained unless and until the whole system is overhauled by someone who wield strong strong support and tremendous political will. The setting up of anti corruption and judges selection commissions many fear will not serve their intended purposes since trust is no longer there. Whatever the present government are doing and will be doing will be viewed with utmost suspicion although they sincerely possess the purest form of intention.

People will continue to speculate and talk since many of their wrongdoings have been exposed day after day whether they do it intentionally or through circumstantial evidences. Nobody will stop questioning the sincerity of the government as they themselves do not show even the slightest remorse in their conduct. People are crying foul at the continuing usage of the dreaded ISA while there are ample laws that they can enforce to safeguard the nation's security but sadly they prefer the short cut through the unjust and evil man-made law.

Justice Ian Chin is resigning in December which is sadly since he opens the floodgate and logically he should bear the consequences and move on in the name of justice. Now, people will see his action as tainted with malice and thus whatever he alleged are deemed untrue. Nonetheless, living and working under the present administration will serve no purpose as again trust is no longer there although they still the legitimate government. But looking at how they managing the nation the legitimacy may not hold as they think and believe it will.

Razak Baginda is now a free man, good for him and his family since we know the hardship being a prisoner but the fact that his two so-called accomplices do not share his fortune is something bewildering vis a vis the statutory declarations by PI Bala and RPK. Logically, how could two lower rank policemen commit such heinous crime with no known motives? They must be following orders from someone who yield tremendous power. Why kill the victim themselves since there are various ways to dispose of people covertly. There are instances of murders done by hired killers and these killers slipped away unnoticed thus add to unsolved murder cases. Are they scapegoats? These are some of the questions which the public will continue to ask since TRUST is longer exist!

Love all, trust a few. - Shakespeare