PAS’s president is calling for a unity government with UMNO. (read the report in Malaysian insider)
This is worrying because if this becomes true, it would mean that reform forces in Malaysia would suffer a great setback. This is one of the most worrying thing to hapen in Malaysia, for it would mean that change might not be inevitable if these 2 join hands. It would also mean the imperfect 2 party system that we now have would be gone, since PKR is not as strong as PAS in rural Malay areas.
PAS is split between those who want to join forces with UMNO and whose who do not want to. I think a lot will depend on NIk Aziz, and I would want to watch this development very closely…
Dr. Hsu's forum 
Feb 27, 2009 @ 16:45:39
Doc
got to see who issued that statement and in what capacity – a president of PAS or on behalf of pro UMNO faction of PAS Terengganu?
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Feb 27, 2009 @ 16:47:44
That was why I said anything can happen in this Bolehland called Malaysia.
But, my feel is that, PAS will not link-up with Umno.
Umno betrayed PAS before. I don’t think they are so foolish to trust Umno again.
Once bitten, twice shy. Anas Zubedy is right, less politiking, more ‘economiking’ is what both side to do.
Your would be PM will do all out to remain Umno in power. Will you happily fall into this trap, PAS?
None of my business, I am an outsider. Hahaha
PAS makan cili, Umno rasa pedas?
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Feb 27, 2009 @ 18:11:04
We have to accept the reality is PAS really join up in the BN coalition. Look on the brighter side. Malaysians need accountablitity, transparent and realiable coalition that can take care of the next generation. Can we really trust PKR? If PAS president really have that intention, it is good for the nation.
Too much politicking is too bad for our economy development. What we want from the government? Social needs, economic needs and political needs that can bring goodness to mankind.
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Feb 27, 2009 @ 18:34:29
Wonderful, immoral can bring goodness to mankind?
Wonderful Malaysia.
siapa makan cili, dia rasa pedas
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Feb 27, 2009 @ 18:51:08
Well, PAS’ origin can be traced back to UMNO’s attempt to gain greater suport from Islamic leaders. As far back as 1950 when UMNO sponsored a national meeting of ulamas (religious teachers) in Johor.
At this meeting, the Ulama-ulama Sa-Malaysia (Pan-Malayan Union of Scholars) was formed, (read closely)…..AS A BODY WITHIN UMNO.
However, in 1951, it decided to become independent and Pan-Malaysan Islamic Party (known then as PMIP), meaning, today’s PAS was formed in Penang.
In 1963, renamed as Parti Islam Se-Malaysia.
So historically, Pas was in UMNO’s womb. See the divine fate. Now Pas going back to UMNO is not surprising.
Except the political mire. In 1959, Pas captured Kelantan and Kelantan and ruled until 1978.
In 1978, UMNO captured balik Kelantan and also Trengganu in 1962.
Pas joined BN in 1974 but got kicked in the butt in 1977, leaving much bad blood in relationship.
See, the trial of the history always interwined between UMNO and Pas. Like “lotus root broken up” but linked with strands of :”love” and hate.
So, whether Pas going back to “mother-ship,” I guess it normal BUT this time UMNO has an added agenda : TO BREAK UP the Pakatan coalition.
Just a tactic, long shot. UMNO may well succeed to get a part of Pas back into its fold, at least to weaken Pas’ coalition with Anwar’s Keadilan.
Nothing moral or immoral, pure politiking.
monk
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Feb 27, 2009 @ 19:00:42
whether they team up or try to team up, the indications are very obvious.other component parties dont have say anyway.let it come next election we decide throw these 2 guys out.
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Feb 27, 2009 @ 19:21:09
Ai, my reading is different from you guys.
It is not about PAS joining BN, but it is about PAS calling for everyone, PR and BN to work for the nation, instead of bickering and winners take all attitude.
However, I doubt it will happen, as Be End is always winners-take-all.
Need I remind you that many PAS members, including Nik Aziz’s own son are still locked up under ISA for many years.
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Feb 27, 2009 @ 19:22:59
I think most people don’t understand what a unity govt is. It means that politicians from opposing camps agree to share power, in some cases putting aside electoral wins or rights. Such a govt is usually formed in times of crisis or emergency to pull the country up.
A unity govt acknowledges that there are talents in both camps which can be utilized to work for the benefit of the nation instead of politicking and fighting with each other.
A unity govt at the Federal or state level must encompass BN, PAS, PKR and DAP. No major party should be excluded.
Some of you interpret a unity govt to mean PAS joining an alliance with BN and ruling the PR states together with BN while excluding PKR and DAP. I’m sure this is a misinterpretation of PAS’ intentions.
A unity govt means the ruling party must be able to respect and accept the opposition as equal partners and accommodate them with some political appointments.
But given the nature of politics in Malaysia where there is one dominant party which arrogantly regards itself as having the birthright to rule Malaysia while treating the opposition as pests, do you think a unity govt is possible?
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Feb 27, 2009 @ 19:31:17
With the run up to new PM, bye-elections and uncertainty in political climate especially in Perak, obviously a lot of things can happen in this Bolehland.
Morality of political fishes are put to test, very real test to see whether they eat those baits masterminded by someone tainted with scandals. He ain’t stupid, put it this way. Things can happen so coincidentally in Bolehland Malaysia. Guilty or not guilty, only one’s conscience knows.
“Nothing moral or immoral, pure politiking” if true, will mean dreams flow down to drain for many true Malaysians.
What a country, sigh.
siapa makan cili, dia rasa pedas
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Feb 27, 2009 @ 22:38:34
BN was formed as a unity government after the 1969 may 13 riots. It was meant to include all the parties, but DAP did not join. Gerakan, PPP on the other hand joined. So the ruling unity government got more than 2/3 of representation and became more and more arrogant because of its almost absolute control of the parliament.
If another Unity govt is formed now, I am sure DAP would not join in. SO, it would again be a big party versus a small party.
It would be the end of 2 party system, and back to race politics like before..
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Feb 27, 2009 @ 23:06:02
Yes, the frankenstein backbone party wants to destroy the 2-party system. That’s the strategic and tactic.
I agree to views that the whole idea is to rid the Pakatan and its utopian dream.
“Unity” is just a farce, a polemic to misled people.
How many times this word has been abused, raped and thrown about? Till today, are we really united?
Yes, to a certain extend, but constantly chucuk by certain quarters. We are peace-loving people generally but not the monkeys that tried to stop a MP entering parliament.
Remember, NEP was also shouted and trumpeted about equality. Words…words…be alert.
monk
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 00:21:46
Sorry Dr Hsu for saying this but you have become as easily spooked as your president.
I read the report in Malaysian Insider you referred to and my interpretation of it (if accurately reported) is he meant a unity government comprising ALL political parties with representation in parliament. On this I concur with petestop’s interpretation.
Moreover, just tonight I attended a forum and one of the speakers was YB Mujahid Yusof Rawa, PAS MP for Parit Buntar and PAS National Unity Bureau Chief. In his speech it is very clear that PAS is committed to a justice system of governance for all.
He made it very clear that he is MP for all his constituents and not just his party alone.
Even if what you say is true, I believe ‘civil war’ will erupt in PAS, led by PAS members like YB Mujahid and others.
Doc, as much as I respect your views, I want to say it can’t happen. Because of what UMNO did in Perak to a PAS MB which really hurt PAS members to the point of openly shedding tears.
The forum I attended tonight pointed out one thing which you should bear in mind. It is no longer about race or religion. It is about ending the corruption of UMNO/BN. It is about UMNO vs the rest of Malaysia.
I have more faith in PAS than I have with the BN components!
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 05:07:42
Romerz,
To add on further. PAS (Hadi Awang & UMNO Faction) jopes of having a unity with UMNO would lead to a big split in PAS, sinking PAS.
Hsu,
I believe PAS has learnt their lesson before.Hmm…..Like it or not, Gerakan would still be gone for good. The only that benefits is DAP. Surprising hey! If ever the DAP leadership possess the master stroke of LKY and his lieutenants.
Regards,
looes74
P.S : Again, What are you doing in Gerakan?
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 09:32:26
looes74,
PAS has learned their lesson, but Gerakan never learn. It rather let Umno use it as a tool to do whatever they want. Gerakan is long gone.
Gerakan members should go on the ground (like romerz) by attending PAS or PR ceramah to get first hand feels rather than to rely on The Malaysian Insider. I still in doubt who is this Insider. They can be cunning, mind you.
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 09:45:05
what I am worried about is that this faction might break off and join hands with UMNo , maybe in the form of a new party. If that is the case, the 2 party system will be considerably weakened.
I think some of the component parties of BN must speak out against this alliance before it becomes a fact, no matter how improbable it is. If their voices are not heeded, then they must pull out from BN and try to strengthen the 2 party system.
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 10:34:37
Dr. Hsu,
If a faction of PAS break off and join Umno, it will be swallowed by Umno. PAS will still survive but be rid of these closet Umno lovers. It can only spell good for PAS and strengthen the 2 party system.
The unity govt suggestion is just a noble idea for all political parties to work together but has been twisted by MalaysianInsider as a PAS alliance with Umno. Not all MI articles are balanced. Be careful of MI articles with no bylines.
Don’t expect the component parties of BN to strengthen the 2 party system. They have already tied their futures to Umno and like their master are the last to want a 2 party system.
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 12:23:31
Kenny Gan,
You are right. Just like in PKR, PAS too have Umno remnants around who hold on to Ketuanan Melayu mentality, and do not want to see 2-party system. After all, Umno’s 50 over years influence are not easy to erase altogether in a short time.
If these Umno remnants wish to quit PKR and PAS, so much the better for a stronger PR. Just look at Nizar and Khalid Samad of PAS, they are so well respected and received by Malaysian of all races. These are the people that can go far, not people like Nazri and Umno youngsters.
Just imagine, Nizar and Nazri, formed by same characters yet so different in mentality. Well, I don’t know how you Malaysian interpret, at least this is how outsider like me see this.
Remember, The Malaysian Insider can be cunning, don’t believe wholesale.
monk, you agree?
Nizar makan cili, Nazri rasa pedas
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 12:51:59
Dr. Hsu. You are looking at this proposal from the old paradigm. When the last unity govt was formed, the oppositions were weak and hated each others guts. Either Chinese chauvinistic parties and an islamic party. Can you imagine Lim Kit Siang sitting down with a PAS leader in those days? Heaven will fall before it could happened.
Look at today. The numbers are totally different.
The sentiments are different.
In civilised countries, the political parties put aside their differences to form a unity govt to tackle the issues of a nation in crisis. Winston Churchill was PM of a unity government setup to prosecute the war. It was either that or have Hitler rule England.
Today, financial wolf is at the door. So, I think PAS proposal is a very statesman like argument.
Either we unite and fight this problem or all of us will become beggars.
Finally, after so long winded, I do not think UMNO and BN will accep this idea. They are too arrogant and their hands dipped too deep into the coffer to think straigt. I do not see a statesman in their ranks, except maybe for Tengku Razaleigh.
In conclusion, I think it will be status quo politically. And we should be prepare to live a beggar’s life.
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 13:56:13
I read “Tan: Help heal Tee Keat-Soi Lek rift” by Stanley Koh in Malaysiakini.
As much as I think Gerakan should be out of BN to stay relevant, MCA should do likewise. Funny thing is that proponent like Dr. Hsu to coax Gerakan, it seems none from MCA.
At first I thought OTK will do so, but I was wrong. CSL? Maybe, if he is edged out of MCA main stream politics. But, that will be no use by then.
As far as Umno doesn’t represent the Malays, MCA doesn’t represent the Chinese. Same scenario is applicable to MIC to Indian.
We can see from these development that, Malaysian mindset has changed vastly to multiracial.
Who cares if Guan Eng is leading Penang, as long as he is fair and transparent in his administration, I don’t care whether Guan Eng is a Chinese, Malay or Indian ethnic, Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu or Christian, I am OK. This is what my Malay friends told me. Surprised?
It seems Umno, MCA, Gerakan and MIC are racists, not DAP, PAS or PKR.
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 14:05:04
cilipadi.
I see OTK as a farmer. His job now is to cut and destroy the lalang in MCA. You know, the warlords, towkays, Alongs and gangsters. If he is successful in smashing them (and dont get killed along the way), then MCA will come back. He is the last hope for MCA.
Whether he is the Gestapo or not, it does not matter. Dont care if he is a white cat or black cat. He is a good cat if he catches the mice.
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 14:19:38
klm.
Let us see whether OTK can do what you said.
He is not worried even Umno is grabbing his balls? I am not so optimistic with all these BN leaders. Even Yong Teck Lee is quiet now. Umno has its way to control KTK, OTK, YTL and so on. LKY, LLS, SV…..so on and so forth, many examples.
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 15:05:36
klm,
OTK will only destroy the CSL lallang and not his lallang. Selective cleaning of course.
OTK the last hope of MCA? I prefer to think of him as the Last Eunuch before PR takes over.
Is MCA worth saving? It has proven itself to be incapable of representing the Chinese community in the face of Umno hegemony. You and me live under a slew of discriminatory racial policies despite the existence of MCA.
The MCA head is nothing more than a politically castrated eunuch richly rewarded by his overlord to keep his community in line.
A coalition of racial parties is structurally unsound and eventually unworkable. Each race fighting for their own rights and privileges means the strongest race gets the most while the weakest race gets the least. Under this system, it’s no wonder that Indians have ended up as an underclass.
Multi-racial parties are the way forward for Malaysia, not Umno, MCA or MIC. Gerakan would be wise not to tie its future to Umno as the other 2 parties have.
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 17:12:37
I agree with Romerz’s views completely. That the resentment and opposing forces is against UMNO, no longer fit to govern. Its hegemony and tentacles to corruption and power should be chopped off by the voting electorate at the next general election.
The political mindsets of Malaysians are finally being awakened after 60 years of deep slumber and nightmares.
The turning point should not be too far off but the devil will put up a strong fight. If Malaysians can go through the pain and warts, the silver lining should be at the end of the tunnel. But hell, it’ll be a long tunnel.
The nightmare will start when the new warlord takes the throne.
monk
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 17:32:48
Kim, your observation is correct. The party warlords and the corruptible business-link to UMNO at state level especially have been going on for decades.
OKT as some are tagging him as the last emperor. He can cut the lalang provided he don’t get bitten by poisonous snakes and dengue mosquitoes. Looks like he has been bitten by some in recent days.
Many used to the old ways and those connected supplies of tenders and projects have been cut off since the party lost so many seats and States (revenue sources) are actually resisting strongly against OTK.
These same people within the party wants a leader who can feed them well. If OKT can’t do it, why not prop up another, which certain quarters are doing right now. Using veneer propaganda, about respecting delegates’ aspirations, giving the sinner a second chance but never exposing real agenda.
Cilipadi, you are right…the Malaysia Insider was set up with an agenda. I just spoke to someone connected to the portal news circuit, it was rumored that Fox Communications is one of the sponsor and benefactor which in turn link to someone in the corridor of power. Well, just cheap talk, but don’t know the truth. Once upon a time, it was rumored linked to the 4th floor of some building far away in Malaysian disneyland not far from KL.
monk
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 17:55:22
Dont care if Malaysian Insider is linked to anyone. Provided it serves a purpose.
Read the news on Samy Vellu and MIC in Malaysian Insider. The woman behind Samy Vellu is starting to tell all. Stealing, Looting from the Indian community and corruption on an epic scale. Bollywood style. And condemning the Indian community to poverty for at least one generation .
Looks like someone is out to get rid of Samy Vellu and MIC for good. Which is a good thing.
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 17:59:23
monk,
As a Malaysian Outsider, I fully understood what you meant and fully agreed with you.
My Malay friend taught me a Malay idiom, “Musuh dalam selimut”, it is exactly what is happening everywhere in PR and certain media. The English equivalent is called “If you cannot beat the crowd, join the crowd”.
Human, by any definition, can be the poisonous or most cunning creatures of the Earth. If not, how come so many great religions founded, yet no one of these great religions can unite mankind. Each of them claiming their God is more powerful than the other, their religion is true one while others are fault, never ending argument.
Even one simple word of “Allah” can create so much havoc. Human are really creature that is so hard to understand.
In short, money and power are the ultimate aims of these people you mentioned. If they put emphasis in “morality” over “money & power”, Malaysia will not be in this situation after 50 over years of Umno rule.
Beware of “musuh dalam selimut”. They are all over….
siapa makan cili, dia rasa pedas
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 18:27:13
Ha, ha, but hee heee, you are beginning to make me suspect that you are not “foreign-grown” and you appear to be a “domestically-grown” cilipadi.
Whatever, cilipadi grown here or overseas are just as hot. But seriously there are more than 100 types of cilipadi, what type are you?
I have tasted some in Australia, damn hot! Perhaps the hottest should be in South America.
Well, I personally don’t follow “institutionalised” religions, don’t follow religious personality cults, I don’t believe the holiness only within buddhist temples. The body is the temple of the “spirit” and where ever the body goes, the temple goes.
When prophets or sages go to heaven, haven’t you read, there were always chaos and quarrels even during those times and that’s why so many “splits” and denominations. Buddhism was the same, when Gautama died, it happened. They split into Hinayana (small vehicle) and later Mahayana (big vehicle). But this evolution is also caused by adapting to local countries when the religion was seeded there. Anyway, the most dangerous element is when kerosene is mixed with fire: religion and politics is a deadly mix.
So, go for spiritual evolution. Not religion, my preference.
monk
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 19:05:06
monk,
Haha, your hee sounded like a Perak lady….anyway, I despise hee element, if not, I won’t place “morality” as top priority.
I am scare of cilipadi myself, that’s why I am not even sure which spesis is the hottest. I tried my first cilipadi when I first landed in Malaysia long long ago. But, anywhere also never mind, so long the cilipadi is hot enough to “deserving people”.
I know nuts about religion but opine that morality should be there, if not no point talk about which religion one belongs to. Essence is more important than name. Thanks for teaching me some of your philosophy. They are just great.
It is a shame for MCA to behave the way they do after having you as ‘insider’ for so long. It was good you left them, hahaha. How I wish to see Dr. Hsu do just that to Gerakan before I fly away from Malaysia.
Good luck monk, good luck Malaysian. Hope I can rejoice with all of you if monk is true with his assessment,
“The turning point should not be too far off but the devil will put up a strong fight. If Malaysians can go through the pain and warts, the silver lining should be at the end of the tunnel. But hell, it’ll be a long tunnel”
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 21:16:33
Cilipadi,
Dr Hsu should know when to leave, his political DNA will send a natural signal to him. He has his hopes and aspirations even though there is not much future in Gerakan with its democratic space and parameter shrinking like a pool drying up during the dry season in the Amazon. Cros struggling and fighting each other for water space. Yes, the National Geographical Society document on cros.
Before you fly away….? Looks like Dr Hsu has to decide soon?
For once, I noticed you didn’t end your write up with the chilli pedas…etc.
So, you are sad leaving all these dramas in Bolehland?
Got emotional abit when you think you’re leaving?
Nevermind. As a farewell message: The hottest chilli is called Bhut Jolokia (orange color) and is grown in Assam, N.E. India with heat rating (official Scoville heating rate) of 1,001,304. Also grown in New Mexico.
The hottest chilli sauce is nicknamed “16 Million Reserver and is 8,000 times stronger than Tabasco sauce. Meaning, you need to drink 250,000 gallons of water to put the fire out. It takes several tons of fresh pepper to produce this one pound of capsaicin: incidently containing more than 13 vitamins and amino acids.
So Cilipadi, finally you know something about yourself….ah, haaaa, haaaa.
By the way, UMNO Kuli agreed to the concept of the Unity government. Even he fell into this trap…..
monk
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 22:53:03
PAS should learn from its past mistake in forming unity government with UMNO. As for UMNO, my, my, if they do it just shows how weak UMNO is when it loses the support of some Malays and the support of all non-Malays. As for Gerakan, it should look back at its history. It was once a fighting force for justice and the voice of the people for equality, now, it’s just a sad party silenced by the people. To reform Gerakan needs to separte itself from UMNO, even tho it would be a hard trudging road, but at least one worth traveling for the sake of the people of Malaysia and for the true meaning of the struggle of the fore fathers on Gerakan.
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Feb 28, 2009 @ 23:34:22
Was back in Perak this weekend.
It is depressing really, hearing from my mother than Chang Ko Youn or Perak Gerakan, who is now appointed “advisor” to the person who stole the Perak MB title, is saying in the press that the conversion of the Chinese New Village land title to free hold is illegal.
Looks like they are going to roll back whatever good that has been done by the PR state govt.
Ya, great, unelected persons can be appointed to Exco position in the state, and to determine the fate of the millions of Perakians. You call this natural justice ?
GERAKAN, WE WILL FOREVER REMEMBER THAT YOU BETRAY US !!!
It does not matter anymore that we used to hold LCE is high esteem, bcoz that period is already dead, as Gerakan is but a traitor now.
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 00:29:30
See. Gerakan was appointed to position to do master’s bidding. Gerakan’s advisor tp BN govt is only advisory. Under the law he has no vote. Just cakap only. BN need a Chinese to do the dirty work.
So Gerakan was chosen. You want a position, it is at UMNO’s pleasure. It is really shameful. Gerakan is now reduced to a front for an illegal operation.
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 00:32:21
monk,
Umno has lost its moral ground to form ‘Unity Government’ or whatever government in Malaysia especially after Perak fiasco. We don’t need to look far but recent U-turn stunts of Umno in increase in toll rates, and canceled gazetted approval for using the simple word of ‘Allah’. They have totally lost their direction and in uncharted water now.
If I am Pak Lah, I will go for a fresh General Election. Umno will lost in this General Election, but at least they can gain back some ‘moral ground’ that they lost. If not, that will be the end of Umno and Be End.
Divine tribulation is there, Umno and cronies cannot escape this. They have to face it. Again, best way is through a fresh General Election.
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 00:35:07
Come to think of it. By using Gerakan to do the dirty work also means Gerakan is dead meat in the next election. Imagine what the new villages will do to Gerakan in Perak after its representative said that the conversion of the Chinese New Village land title to free hold is illegal.
I think UMNO is very smart by appointing Gerakan person as chinese affair officer. It got a fool to do a dirty job. And it just killed Gerakan in Perak. Brilliant.
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 00:42:53
I read in RPK blog the below, a lengthy one, but make a lot of sense. Just in case you all may miss it, I reproduce below,
____________________
From the heart of a Muslim – Tawfik Hamid
I was born a Muslim and lived all my life as a follower of Islam. After the barbaric terrorist attacks done by the hands of my fellow Muslims everywhere on this globe, and after the too many violent acts by Islamists in many parts of the world, I feel responsible as a Muslim and as a human being, to speak out and tell the truth to protect the world and Muslims as well from a coming catastrophe and war of civilizations.
I have to admit that our current Islamic teaching creates violence and hatred toward Non-Muslims. We Muslims are the ones who need to change. Until now we have accepted polygamy, the beating of women by men, and killing those who convert from Islam to other religions.
We have never had a clear and strong stand against the concept of slavery or wars, to spread our religion and to subjugate others to Islam and force them to pay a humiliating tax called Jizia. We ask others to respect our religion while all the time we curse non-Muslims loudly (in Arabic) in our Friday prayers in the Mosques.
What message do we convey to our children when we call the Jews “Descendants of the pigs and monkeys”…. Is this a message of love and peace, or a message of hate?
I have been into churches and synagogues where they were praying for Muslims. While all the time we curse them, and teach our generations to call them infidels, and to hate them.
We immediately jump in a ‘knee jerk reflex’ to defend Prophet Mohammed when someone accuses him of being a pedophile while, at the same time, we are proud with the story in our Islamic books, that he married a young girl seven years old (Aisha) when he was above 50 years old.
I am sad to say that many, if not most of us, rejoiced in happiness after September 11th and after many other terror attacks.
Muslims denounce these attacks to look good in front of the media, but we condone the Islamic terrorists and sympathise with their cause. Till now our ‘reputable’ top religious authorities have never issued a Fatwa or religious statement to proclaim Bin Laden as an apostate, while an author, like Rushdie, was declared an apostate who should be killed according to Islamic Shariia law just for writing a book criticizing Islam.
Muslims demonstrated to get more religious rights as we did in France to stop the ban on the Hejab (Head Scarf), while we did not demonstrate with such passion and in such numbers against the terrorist murders.
It is our absolute silence against the terrorists that gives the energy to these terrorists to continue doing their evil acts. We Muslims need to stop blaming our problems on others or on the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. As a matter of honesty, Israel is the only light of democracy, civilization, and human rights in the whole Middle East.
We kicked out the Jews with no compensation or mercy from most of the Arab countries to make them “Jews-Free countries” while Israel accepted more than a million Arabs to live there, have its nationality, and enjoy their rights as human beings. In Israel, women can not be beaten legally by men, and any person can change his/her belief system with no fear of being killed by the Islamic law of ‘Apostasy,’ while in our Islamic world people do not enjoy any of these rights. I agree that the ‘Palestinians’ suffer, but they suffer because of their corrupt leaders and not because of Israel.
It is not common to see Arabs who live in Israel leaving to live in the Arab world. On the other hand, we used to see thousands of Palestinians going to work with happiness in Israel, its ‘enemy’. If Israel treats Arabs badly as some people claim, surely we would have seen the opposite happening.
We Muslims need to admit our problems and face them. Only then we can treat them and start a new era to live in harmony with human mankind. Our religious leaders have to show a clear and very strong stand against polygamy, pedophilia, slavery, killing those who convert from Islam to other religions, beating of women by men, and declaring wars on non-Muslims to spread Islam. Then, and only then, do we have the right to ask others to respect our religion. The time has come to stop our hypocrisy and say it openly: ‘We Muslims have to Change’.
Tawfik Hamid
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 01:15:31
I went and read the transcript of the original interview, which was in Bahasa Malaysia.
I didn’t get the sense that it was calling for PAS to form a unity government with UMNO.
It was calling for both sides of the political divide to work together in view of the economic troubles the country is facing / likely to be facing in the near future.
I don’t know how it got translated as “PAS should form a Unity Government with UMNO”.
Translation mistake or deliberate distortion ? I know the people behind “Malaysian Insider” are not necessarily neutral news observers. Then again, there are plenty who accuse Malaysiakini of being a PKR/PR mouthpiece.
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 09:41:34
This will out some perspective into the unity govt call which is menat to be BN-PR but MI twisted to be PAS-Umno.
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/2/28/nation/
3368987&sec=nation
Ku Li backs Hadi’s call for national unity government
Saturday February 28, 2009
GEORGE TOWN: Umno veteran Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah is supporting PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang’s call for the formation of a Federal Government comprising Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Rakyat leaders.
Such a government, dubbed a “national unity government”, would be a move in the right direction to restore stability, he said.
“The economic crisis is rapidly descending on Malaysia, a country with heavy emphasis on trading, and the people are paying a price for the excessive politicking with no end in sight.
(snip)
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 10:30:49
Are we logical and rational in this political doldrums?
Are we moving forward with a reality? Do we really think PR last 10 months really care about the welfare of Chinese in New Villages? Issuing free hold title, promising land title for schools, painting a rosing picture in Perak, etc…etc. It doesn’t matter whoever is the Chinese affair adviser, the job is to take care of the welfare and interest of the communities as a whole. What we Chinese want in this economic doldrums? We are losing our youth to Singapore, losing our jobs in Perak, migrating to other states or countries to earn our living, stability in our political situation, cutting down crime rate, creating more jobs oppurtunities, safe guard our environment, better qualities of life, efficient delivery system in local government and government machinery and etc .
Isn’t it rhetoric to have racial harmony, political stability, economic development and better qualities of life for Perakians? It is time for us Perakians to move on with BN government. Are we wasting our time trying to wonder whether PAS will click up with UMNO? It is time for us to have a fair and just society. Let go PR and come back next GE if only the people still support you.
Be sensible and logical. Save your energy and breath PR assemblyman
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 10:44:29
Kenny Gan,
Many readers are ‘lazy readers’ where we used to read ‘headlines’ without diving deeper to read the rest of the contents.
‘Headlines’ makes a deep impression to us ‘lazy readers’, and this is where media can manipulate the actual meaning of an article or news.
MI or Mkini, must practice ‘professionalism’ in their reporting which do not side PR or BN, as they cannot run away from facts and truths. Media should also observe ‘morality’ and report with ‘clear conscience’.
Of course, beware of ‘musuh dalam selimut’ amongst your peers…I can see some, but, not so nice to tell, you get what I meant, monk?
Tell me, kittykat46 why M—i is more credible than M—r?
siapa makan cili, dia rasa pedas
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 10:50:18
I used to feed my dog with cilipadi when it is naughty. It seems I need to feed a dog here with cilipadi. This dog is not naughty, but cunning.
You know which dog?
dog makan cili, dog rasa pedas
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 11:13:25
Can a dog tells Perakian to be logical and rational? No wonder these dogs still remain in BeeEnd.
Slumdog Millionaires in BeeEnd
Slumdog makan cili, Millionaires rasa peda
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 11:56:09
pohwatchdog
Do you know what did LKY did to his people to be loyal and defending Singapore? He give them houses where they feel as their own. If Singaporeans are unable to own a house, they will be wanderers.
The PR Perak Government are giving land and especially to the farmers so that they can be certain and make full use to grow food and generate income and create jobs. During recession, it would be the quickest way to migitate the impact of recession. On the other hand, the UMNO Government were creating uncertainities to the farmers as the government can retract the land back.
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 21:00:53
Cilipadi,
Like I say many times before, the only person I respect in Gerakan is Tan Chee Koon. In fact, if Tan Chee Koon were Lee Kuan Yew, he would woke up from his slumber and smack his son for joining back Gerakan. Okay lah, but as a devout christian, he’s with the Lord.
Hsu,
You so damned believe in the Alliance. Perhaps, this is what Gerakan should have done. I simply don’t understand.
How many seats UMNO has? 75 seats
That
That means it can’t form the majority of their own. Threaten UMNO to force Najib to resign lah. That should do it.
But Hsu,
Does Koh got the guts? Ko Youn, that damn cheeky fella? Got NUTS or not? No, then, what the heck you are doing in Gerakan?
People,
By the way, Bolkiah got more NUTs than all the sultans. He took Brunei and leave. Oh…..For those people believe in absolute monarchism, stay in Brunei. Anyway, it’s known that Uncle LKY is taking care of Brunei’s finance. LKY is the de facto Menteri Kewangan Brunei
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 21:14:30
Have we heard of senior citizen selling tissue paper in the street, hawkers stalls, working in fast food restaurants like MacDonald or KFC in Singapore? Have you really been inside a flat in Singapore which is only look like a pigeonhole? Did you think LKC not authoritarian until he sue anyone until bankrupt that oppose him? Read Insight Down Under by Seah Chiang Nee from http://www.thestar.com.my to have a clear picture on Singapore curent issues. Once you are old and invalid, a MP asked them to shift to nursing home in Johor. If you are strong, please work in Singapore. What are materialistic, selfish, uncaring society and money minded society? Do we want it here. Perakians have to move on with the new BN government. With the politcal tsunami last GE, BN government will learn well the people are watching and hopefully BN will consider giving agricultural lands in Changkat Kinding farmers to toil their lands. Have PR really do that in that tenure and have they really care about the people.
Let look at the present scenario. They are too busy reporting to MACC and doing unnecessary whim in the State. We are fed up with this antic. With the economic challenges coming in our door step, let us be united as PAS have their intention. The one who are worry is those opportunists that care about themselves rather than the public.
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 21:50:42
PR gave land to new villagers irrespective of race in Perak but the BN government stopped them (objected) and said Pakatan Perak state government must get approval from the National Land Code committee.
MCA Tanjung Malaim MP also disagreed to Pakatan’s move.
What say you, pollwatch dog?
Has MCA Housing minister ever take preventive measures to stop abandoned housing projects leaving the aggrieved having to pay housing loan instalments and their rented houses, double wham? What has BN ministers been doing on blueprint and visions, other than attending invited functions? The people for your information have been watching the BN till their eye sockets popped out for decades, hoping the BN stooges improve their morals and governance.
At least todat OTKeat admitted that the BN governance and public service delivery system has failed. Please read Malaysian insider news today.
Singapore is a different story. At least old people gets jobs. Nothing wrong. At least better than here. Have you seen old Malaysians begging on the streets, at coffee shops or even lying outside coffeeshops. Our EPF is so meagre that a few hundred thousand hardly last than 5 years. It’s better to be dead than alive!
monk
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 21:59:08
Pollwatchdog,
Read the rhetorics of all the BN manifestoes since 1960s and especially 2004 and 2008. It was NOT Pakatan that cooks rhetorics. It’s BN and BN and BN all these years.
I have been dealing with manifestos for the last 30 years and the rhetoric literally pours out from the useless sheets…..empty words like you said, harmony, unity, equality and if you string all the words together all these years, it probably stretches from KL to Singapore!!
Sorry, I am not convinced even in my sleep.
monk
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Mar 01, 2009 @ 23:42:26
monk,
If MCA, after 60 years, still think they are representing Chinese Malaysian, tell them, forget about it. They are no more representing the Chinese ethnic. Chinese doesn’t need representation anyway.
Tell them, they should stand up against their political master Umno, and start fighting for fairness, justice, transparency for Malaysian of all ethnics, not just the Chinese.
MCA’s glory forever lost,…I agree fully.
I doubt OTK or CSL is able to stand up against Umno….Let’s see.
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Mar 02, 2009 @ 15:23:48
Under PR govt in Perak, for the first time we have a Non-Muslim Affairs portfolio under the Senior Exco, YB Ngeh Koo Ham.
Our church have been for decades trying to get one of our new building approved as a “rumah ibadat”. But for decades are being denied.
This is our own building, built from donation from our own members, on our own church land.
Only month under the new PR govt, even more surprisingly under a PAS MB, and a proven MB for all, instead of MB of UMNO only, we finally got this approval.
Don’t you see the pattern here ?
Not only they deny you your religious building permit, they also deny you your vernacular schools.
It is a pattern of racial and religious discrimination, and it all happened under 52 years of Be End govt.
Gerakan hands are equally dirtied by their involvement with Be End.
Results and facts speaks better than empty rhetorics from the likes of pohwatchdog.
Mark my words, we will slam-dunked Gerakan so hard comes GE-13 in Perak and Penang that they can only hang on to UMNO for survival, if they survive at all.
In fact, it already happened, and will happen again.
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Mar 02, 2009 @ 17:43:17
Pollwatchdog,
You think BN is so great? Ha…ha…I will compile their great DEEDs….sorry MIS-Deeds soon. Read about it…..ha….ha.
monk
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Mar 02, 2009 @ 18:00:46
That is why BN government have a “wake up call”
from the last political tsunami. Is it not time that BN improve their delivery system and be proactive in touch with the people on the ground? Are we really happy with PR government doing instigation and the lost party is the people themselves? Move on and forward. Come back next GE to reclaim your lost ground.
With the unnecessary whim, the people will lose more in term of unemployment, education opportunities, better qualities of life, better delivery system, infrastructure development, sense of belonging and etc. What we really want is a fair, just, accountable and transparency governance. Have PR really 100 % accountable. Look around us. What we want is a government that can make us feel secure for the next generation.
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Dec 02, 2010 @ 20:04:14
Tulisan yang baik dan pengajaran yang bermakna 🙂
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