Repeal the Act, PM!

I welcome the release of the 13 ISA detainees, and the promise of a comprehensive review of ISA.

However, I hope that not only a review but a total repeal of the Act can be done immediately, and other detainees be released soon. 

 I also hope that other draconian laws such as Printing presses and Publication Act as well as the  Sedition Act can be done away.

Where credit is due, we must give credit … I was actually not surprised to hear this, but it has come sooner than I have expected.

The reason why I was not surprised was because in the past 2 months, I was told by my party top leader  that he had spoken to the incoming PM on several occasions to push for the release of ISA detainees as his first act of PM as well as a total review of the ACt, and he was very confident that this would be done when the new PM takes office ( perhaps the incoming PM has promised him, but I was not privy to that). 

Anyway, a good act is a good act, whatever the motive behind…

 

………………………………………

As to my reaction to PM’s ‘One Malaysia, Performance now, People first slogan’, pls refer to my article “deja Vu”.. I would only believe it when all these are done….. Remember the boy who cried wolf many times and conned those down there, no one believes him when the real wolf came. So i would only believe what was promised when the promise is fulfilled.

Again, I will hope against hope (( some people asked me what I meant by this: it simply means that there is little hope but still I hope)  that these will be done for the sake of Malaysians.

70 Comments (+add yours?)

  1. Richard Loh
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 15:14:15

    If he says nothing I would not have been so angry but with his maiden speech it makes me more angry. Many are blinded and feel so happy for what he is doing now.

    For GOD sake, he is racist umno najib and always will be racist umno najib. What he does will always be for umno and umno only and no one else.

    He does not follow the rule of laws and that he and umno is above the law.

    These goodies are just to get him off to a better footing and trying to win the 3 by elections, nothing else.

    Dr. Hsu, your statement:
    As to my reaction to PM’s ‘One Malaysia, Performance now, People first slogan’, pls refer to my article “deja Vu”.. I would only believe it when all these are done….. Remember the boy who cried wolf many times and conned those down there, no one believes him when the real wolf came. So i would only believe what was promised when the promise is fulfilled.

    After living my life for 55 years, practically all my life with umno/bn rules, I can assured you there is no way I can believe in the promises.

    It is very simple. They give you 3 steps today, tomorrow they take back 4 steps and you can see how we had fallen over all these years of the type of promises they give and the way they take back.

    Like

  2. klm
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 15:39:59

    I quote Deng Xiao Peng ” It does not matter if it is white cat or black cat. It is a good cat if it catches mice.” We dont know if Najib is a black cat or white cat. ok. Maybe he is a black cat. But we need to see if he catches mice. Then he is a good cat. So we see.

    Like

  3. annoyed
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 15:43:33

    Repeal the ISA is the way to go, review is still not enough.

    I won’t give any credit to Najib for the release of 15 ISA detainees. How can someone in the system rob somebody’s freedom by detaining them under ISA, and release them after some years, which have already inflicted much pains and sufferings to the detainees and closed ones be given credit? No way man.

    This loop of arrest and release can be repeated many times. Do you think we should give credit every time they decided to release these detainees?

    Repeal the ISA and other draconian laws are the way to go, PM Najib. I won’t give credit to KTK or any BN leaders for that also.

    Vote PR for the coming by-elections is the way to knock senses into their heads, Rakyat Malaysia.

    Like

  4. A true Malaysian
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 16:21:37

    A wrong act is a wrong act. Releasing 15 ISA detainees is a welcome move whatever motive it maybe, especially the 3 bye-bye elections are around the corner.

    I am still not convinced with Najib’s move in this. To me, once a trust is broken, you need a lot of right moves to correct those wrongs that you committed. Based on what I see from the recent concluded Umno annual assembly, Umno still have a long long way to go to gain back people’s trusts that they once placed with Umno, the Malays inclusive.

    I believe many true Malaysians are having the same principle as mine.

    Like

  5. klm
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 16:22:31

    Good point. No kang dao for KTK. No minister position for him via back door.

    Like

  6. jamesloh18
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 16:24:03

    i am not hoping against hope.to many time kena conned kau kau kopi !

    Like

  7. A true Malaysian
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 16:49:12

    I quote you some facts on why I commented “Umno still have a long long way to go to gain back people’s trusts that they once placed with Umno…”

    Fact 1 :
    “Dr Mahathir’s presence and the other expected members would help strengthen Umno and Malay unity,” Najib said. My question is, why only Malay unity that Najib stresses on? Why not Malaysian Unity? This is very much contradicting with his “One Malaysia” concept that he announced yesterday.

    Fact 2:
    “I love the party and would advise and give teguran (critics) if necessary for the betterment of the Malays,” Mahathir said.

    Again, why betterment of the Malays, not Malaysians?

    Fact 3:
    “I will also seek advice from Abdullah and Dr Mahathir on the matter. As what I had emphasised during the Umno assembly – I would seek the opinions of party grassroots before arriving to a decision.” Najib said when asked about his new Cabinet.

    Najib not even mentioned his comrades in BN about his plan for new cabinet, but just mentioned party grassroots, which apparently referred to Umno grassroots. Why not Malaysians? Is he not appointed by Malaysians but Umno members?

    Whatever facts that I quoted above are from today’s Malaysiakini report, not even of other days. The list will be even longer.

    Gerakan and BN die hards, still not convinced Umno is ……? You hopeless.

    Like

  8. Dr Hsu
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 16:55:45

    A True Malaysian
    That is why Gerakan must come out…. There is really a place for a moderate party as a third force….

    Like

  9. Kenny
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 18:38:23

    Releasing the 13 ISA detainees doesn’t impress me. This is like a thief returning your money after he’s caught. Remember there are still 40 over ISA detainees languishing in Kamunting.

    KTK is ogling for a Senatorship and a Minister post. I guess this is why he wants Gerakan to be in BN. It’s all about govt positions even if it doesn’t come with any real power.

    Don’t be fooled by Najib’s token acts. His reign will be oppressive and if PR wins 2 out of 3 by-elections, it’s going to be worse.

    Like

  10. annoyed
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 19:19:02

    Fact 3:
    “I will also seek advice from Abdullah and Dr Mahathir on the matter…..

    Why seek advice from Abdullah and Dr Mahathir only? Why not Malaysians at large? Abdullah & Mahathir pay more taxes than Rakyat?

    Annoying and disgusting.

    Pohwatchdog, what say you on facts presented by A True Malaysian? What for study history? Look forward lah. You are just equally annoying and disgusting.

    Like

  11. cilyhot
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 21:19:24

    I switched off the tv !!!!I can’t stand watching someone who knowingly let his ‘kaki’ took hundred of millions commission buying subs using taxpayers’ monies.

    Like

  12. Disgusted
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 21:25:39

    Richard,

    You are very wise, most Malaysians reaching half the decade knows pretty well.

    The emperor is Santa Claus and he has to give goodies and a big smile before he turns frankenstein. You call it 3 steps forward and 4 step backwards later.

    But many Malaysians just cannot understand that no matter what UMNO leaders say, the parameter is “fixed” (race-based), race supremacy and Melayu ketuanan. They are “hiding” these agenda to hoodwink (regain) support and when they are back to glory, they become “gory.”

    Hence, many wise Malaysians don’t believe they can reform. There is no way, a racist party giving up everything to lose its soul.

    It;s simple, they need to regain support to destroy the two-party system, then they will bedevil tactics for further suppression against those against them.

    Time will really tell. It happened before and it will happen again. It’s nothing new. History has proven and repeat itself all over again as long as there are stupid Malaysians around.

    monk

    Like

  13. Disgusted
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 21:31:24

    Ha, ha cityhot, I also switched off the tv too. I rather munched cilipadi quietly. monk

    Like

  14. Disgusted
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 22:01:03

    Najib joined the federal government as a full cabinet minister in 1986. During that year’s UMNO triennial polls in April, he took over as acting leader of the party’s influential youth wing following the resignation of Anwar Ibrahim, who was elected one of the 3 VPs.

    At age 34, Najib was also youth and sports minister.

    By October 1987, acting UMNO Youth (Najib) took a hard line on protests by Chinese against the government’s promotion of non-Chinese educated teachers. Najib at an interview with Asiaweek in 1987:

    Question: Why has UMNO Youth adopted such a hard line?

    N: This is one of the series of issues that has been building up for some time. If it was only this issue, we would not adopt such a posture. It started a few months ago when MCA leaders questioned the status and privileges of Malays. Although it was resolved, the Malays were not happy because the MCA did not apologise publicly. The perception was that the MCA got away lightly on that one.

    Question: Some people say UMNO Youth is adopting a hard line primarily to benefit your candidacy for the election of youth president next year, ot to revive the flagging image of the youth wing as an effective pressure group within UMNO. What do you say?

    N: “That’s not rue. Party elections have nothing to do with it. We wouldn’t be taking this position if there was no real necessity. If I were exploiting an issue it could eventually backfire on me. I would do what I am doing now even if there were no (UMNO Youth) elections next year. WE HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO REACT. ISSUES HAVE BEEN TOSSED BACK AND FORTH LIKE A SHUTTLECOCK IN A BADMINTON GAME: IF YOU DON’T SMASH THE SHUTTLECOCK WHEN IT KEEPS COMING YOU WAY, YOU’LL LOSE. PEOPLE WILL SAY YOU REALLY DON’T HAVE THE GUTS TO BE A LEADER.”

    Fast tracking forward now, will Najib now the supremo smash dissendents like a shuttlecock.

    The answer is NOT yet. He will be the Mister Nice guy like his predecessor. Really nice guy? Yes. So that he can get a huge mandate at the 13th GE, just like Mister Sleeping in 2004. If Malaysians fall for this trick, God bless us all.

    monk

    Like

  15. chinseng
    Apr 04, 2009 @ 23:27:06

    ” There is really a place for a moderate party as a third force…. ”

    I agree and belive that there is a need for a moderate party as a third force in our country but currently Gerakan do not believe and do not want to be this third force and they qoute the failure of a third force party from UK as an example.

    Dr. Hsu…. Where to find this moderate third force party that will practice good governance and manage the country to win the heart of the rakyat of all races as the alternative to BeEnd of PR?

    Like

  16. klm
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 10:05:09

    Politics and emotions aside, for anyone to rule the country, he need to have a glove over the gauntlet. A soft touch but a hard punch. It was another politician – Theodore Roosevelt who said “Talk softly and carny a big stick. You will go far” He attributed this wisdom to a West African proverb.

    It is impossible to get people to agree without whacking a smart Alec or too. Every manager knows this.

    To keep the cover over the boiling pot, He will have to whack a few trouble makers. This will be from opposition, press and maybe his own party.
    Mahatir did that. I suspect, Najib will follow this step.

    Who will be the unfortunate examples? Watch the akan datang.

    Like

  17. klm
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 10:15:29

    Chinseng. With regard to Gerakan being a third force, forget it. As far as I can figure, the leaders in Gerakan are doing the Teochew music. (translation – I take care of myself). 8228, 3558 et all. They are using the party and members to argue for positions in the govt. Its argument for a minister position – Gerakan need to have a representation in the Cabinet, not withstanding the fact that the people rejected totally Gerakan as a party.

    Gerakan is riding on the coattail of UMNO. It no longer can achieve anything on its own. I am even suspicious if its motive.

    Like

  18. Kenny
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 11:04:25

    What happened to Kedah PPP where 6000 members switch over to PKR can also happen to Gerakan if grassroots take matters into their own hands. Both PPP and Gerakan are in the same boat – they have lost relevance in BN but their leaders still want to stay on for the sake or hope of positions in the govt. The grassroots should reject this type of eunuch politics.

    Like

  19. annoyed
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 11:08:31

    klm,

    The idea of having a Chinese DPM is a foolish one. That reflects BN racist mentality of who having the idea of only Chinese can take care of Chinese interest, Indian for Indian, Malay for Malay and so on.

    OTK, KTK, the Perak guy are all equally annoying and disgusting to me. How about you all?

    Can’t Malaysia has Chinese PM that can take care of all Malaysians interest or Malay PM for all?

    Like

  20. chinseng
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 11:27:40

    klm,

    Teochew music ” chee key cool chee key ”

    haha
    Gerakan is riding on the coattail of UMNO.

    Like

  21. pohwatchdog
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 20:13:35

    What PR doing now is exactly clone of BN? We need to have a multi racial coalition to govern our country. Even we look at United State, New Zealand and Australia, the winning parties in the ruling government need support from all strata of the multi racial society. Can we ran away from this system if we practice one vote one people system?

    No doubt… we cannot satisfy 100 percentage of the voters. Have we study the constitutional law in our country? Are we realistic, rational and logical? Are we argue blindly? We will give a chance for the One Malaysia concept. Performance Now, People First slogan. Give a some time to prove those sceptical one. What the people want? A political stabilties, racial harmony, education opportunities, better health facilities, clean environment, “bread and butte” issue, low cost of living and good transportation. Malaysia can move forward with the new leadership. Hopefully we hope. Our hope for a better, just and fair society emerge. We want to see a multi racial composition of civil service, efficient and better delivery system.

    We can be positive and what we want. We can debate and argue for a better Malaysia that cater for our next generation.

    Gerakan can play it role as the conscience in BN
    and service oriented for the society and nation as a whole. History have proved that Gerakan have contributed much to nation building, society and enhance qualities of life for those in Penang.

    Like

  22. Kenny
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 21:02:44

    “Gerakan can play it role as the conscience in BN”.

    BN = Umno. Gerakan should have no illusion that it can influence anything in Umno.

    Like

  23. Disgusted
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 21:20:21

    Annoyed, you are right. Having a Chinese as DPM is not the right move, if we have to over away from the race=based paradigm and not preserving the communal parties anymore. “Multi-racialism” is the key word and political realism Malaysians must accept now and the future.

    A Chinese DPM can be only a figure-head or a dead logo even if approved by UMNO as long as UMNO reigns supreme over the components. It’s another dead end road.

    A simple illustration. MCA’s deputy finance minister. What is he in charge? Only custom and excise duty. He cannot influence major policies or even the NEP implementation. Or the deputy home minister? He can’t even have powers comparable to the UMNO minister, not just because he is deputy. UMNO has long controlled all the strategic portfolios.

    There is no such thing as equal partnership, many Malaysians know. Gerakan is in a worse position. So why ask for a DPM post? It is naive and foolish to think that a Chinese DPM will pull back support from the Chinese community.

    If MCA thinks that the party can send someone to be DPM, (probably OTK) the party can do wonders?

    Sorry, another idea from the coffin box?

    monk

    Like

  24. annoyed
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 21:45:22

    monk,

    This dog is hopeless.

    Like

  25. klm
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 21:55:41

    “Gerakan can play it role as the conscience in BN”.

    Ahem. My UMNO friend (He is an active political operative and tapped into the discussions in there) laughed everytime I mentioned Gerakan. In his view, Gerakan has not changed a bit. He consider Gerakan irrelevant as the voters rejected it.

    Under this situation, how can Gerakan be the conscience in BN. The other parties think that it is a waste of time listening to Gerakan.

    This conscience of BN is just a ploy to bluff the Gerakan members.

    Like

  26. klm
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 22:06:17

    The BN model would work if it is made up of race based parties and if there is fair power sharing mechanism. In such an arrangement, a fair decision can be expected. Injecting a multiracial party like Gerakan into the BN arrangement is actually an anomaly. Gerakan is supposed not to represent any race but it is dominated by the Chinese. Hence its presence in BN weakened MCA’s position. Having Gerakan and MCA in BN actually weakened the Chinese position in the BN formula.

    If UMNO want a strong BN formula that is win win then it has to get rid of Gerakan. Now is the time. Gerakan has not won any seats. Getting rid of Gerakan from BN has no consequence whatsoever.

    Like

  27. A true Malaysian
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 22:47:54

    klm.

    BN model won’t work. There won’t be any fair power sharing mechanism. You should forget BN altogether.

    There should be any fixed framework on which party or race should be allocated positions or portfolios. Appointment to these poistions or portfolios should be on meritocracy, capability, character and dedication of personalities available, and not on race or which political party.

    Just ask yourself, let say if MCA is allocated Finance Minister position and none of its leaders is of any experience or qualification in economics and finance, can he or she be an effective Finance Minister?

    This equally applies to Umno. If they insist they must have 10 ministers in certain important portfolios, and they don’t have the pool of talents to fill up such positions and portfolios, can those appointed be trusted to hold such positions and portfolio?

    Multiracial politics and meritocracy are the way all of us should go, not BN model.

    Like

  28. A true Malaysian
    Apr 05, 2009 @ 22:49:27

    correction, ……there shouldn’t be any fixed framework on which party or race should be allocated positions or portfolios…

    Like

  29. Disgusted
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 00:37:35

    BN model is dead. A new government must be formed. Separation of powers of the 3 pillars, executive, judiciary and legislation must be restored. Irregularity and corruptive practices of the electoral system must be cleansed and independence of the police, army and election commission must be ensured.

    Human rights must be respected. ISA must be abolished. Press freedom must be restored. Emergency laws must be repealed and ISA abolished. Etc etc.

    All these are reforms in restoring decent democracy.

    Not mere direct elections, and eradicating corruption within political parties. Meritocracy must be adhered to in the civil service and efforts to correct the racial imbalances. NEP must be abolished and replaced with an upfront affirmative to help all poor and deserving racial communities. Political patronage and subverted loyalty within parties be replaced with noble objectives.

    Yes, all these are dreams of all true conscientious Malaysians. It’s a tall order that UMNO will never reform.

    What it is doing or intend to do is just tokenism and a ploy to fool Malaysians. Hence, UMNO and BN will never carry out. The verdict. BN should be voted out at the next 13th GE.

    I have said in the past and I repeat, there is no hope in BN as long as UMNO reigns in its race agenda. Without all these degenerative and corrupted practices UMNO holds dear to its core, it can no longer grasp power.

    A two-party system must survive for ONE Malaysia, but not the brand UMNO is shouting on.

    monk

    Like

  30. Disgusted
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 09:16:19

    It is slowly emerging that a well-thought out plan has been drawn up to regain BN’s support.

    Apart from carrying out internal reforms (i.e. so far only UMNO and MCA) openly indicated, more announcements will be rolled out for “publicity.’

    Not surprisingly, MCA has recommended (to Najib) that former president Ong Ka Ting be appointed as Malaysian ambassador to China.

    The post (correct me if I am wrong) is with Cabinet status (include the same ambassadorial post to United States).

    What is the future of Gerakan KTK?

    monk

    Like

  31. klm
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 09:42:22

    monk. I know what we can do with KTK. Make him ambassador to Zimbawe.

    Like

  32. klm
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 09:42:58

    or maybe that should be for Sam Velu.

    Like

  33. klm
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 11:14:51

    monk. I heard rumour the person suggested for ambassador to China is the elder ong brother.

    Like

  34. klm
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 11:44:43

    On Penang and Gerakan.

    The development of Penang was the vision of Lim Chong Eu. He had the vision to see the potential of the electronic semiconductor industry then in its infant stage.

    I was posted to Penang over 30 years to care of customers there. The semicon was just starting. In those days, the roads were even properly build yet. In those days, I had difficulty explaining what i do for living, as digital computers were not known in Malaysia.

    In the sense, Lim Chong Eu and I have to give credit to Gerakan for administering the state government to develop the electronic industrial sector in Penang.

    Having said that, it does not magic to run Penang once the path is set. I had a recent discussion with a friend from Penang recently. He said KTS was a good adminstrator. He could rattle off all the numbers regarding development in Penang

    KTK was probably man of the time during the boom period.

    However, the writing was on the wall for the semicon and electronic industry started 10 years ago. The last 3 years – 5 years changes in the industry accelerated. Some factors:

    – maturing industry and increase consolidation
    – intense competition
    – movement to new generation technology
    – automation in production line
    – China
    – appearance of independent design houses
    – technology expertise in Asia – Korea and Taiwan

    All these factors have adverse impact on Penang.

    I have been in the high technology business for over 30 years. I have been watching these signs for a long time. Reading the publication of the State Govt on this area, I noted one thing. I called it straight line planning. What it meant was that the planners were still looking at the future as if everything would remained the same.

    The failure of the Gerakan Govt was to recognise the changes of a maturing industry. The last few years were bad and this financial crisis really spill blood.

    The success of Penang went to Gerakan’s head. It failed to see the signs on the wall and to take the necessary actions.

    Imagine if KTK went to the people and explained what was happening to Penag’s future and what he planned for Penang to take it to the next curve. Maybe the outcome could be different.

    But then, he had no idea for Penang’s future.

    My issue with Gerakan is that it is bad for the future of Penang. It may have done a good job in the past. But its failure was sleeping on the watch.

    Like

  35. Dr Hsu
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 11:51:54

    ..28 most probably will be made a minister.maybe in the ministry of wood and cocoa…the old ‘gerakan’ ministry..

    Sem Value might oso gets it although he said he would not be appointed.

    These are the heads of components.. whereas Ong KT is out of the equation… So the best hope is to get an ambassador’s job… Where else but China, where he can get to know the chinese tycoons an you know what.

    … To have someleaders being appointed to high posistions are not reform at all but part of the old politics of patronage….

    You see the BN leaders are starting to feel more confident since they think that Malay voters are coming abck to them, and Chinese voters being a ‘sensible’ lot would come back if some crumbs are given to the community.. .Especially since a lot of lay people on the grounds that are not so political might be bought over by the sweet rhetoric of a new leadership….. There is also likely to be less flip- flop than during the former PM, since the fomrer PM was never a hand-on person but delegated to the 4th floor boys which were being subverted by some of the ministers not willing to take orders from the young fella.

    I worry that whatever light that we have seen at the end of the tunnel after 308 might be gone, since a new regime with sweet talks might extend the tunnel..

    To have the 2 party system, PR would have to show its ability to govern well, especially in Penang and Selangor,, that would be crucial….. Make sure its people in high positions are clean and scandal free…

    Like

  36. klm
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 12:57:14

    Dr Hsu. As for PR govt for Penang. I am seeing similar reaction from LGE on the semicon and electronic industry. The only difference is that the crisis is here and he has to jump on the hot coals. The issue is that the state govt (both Gerakan and PR) think the industry will come back to Penang. I think the problem is the state civil servants are the same people. PR dont have the experience to question their assumptions.

    PR need to talk to the other people e.g. Venture Capitalists – people who bet money on future industries to figure where that industry is moving.

    Penang is called Silicon Valley of the East. And it is suffering the same fate as the orginal Silicon Valley. Serious re-thinking is needed.

    To to be realistic for PR, the following factors must come together

    1. Prosperity
    2. Clean and efficient govt

    Being clean and efficient without prosperity will not help in long term.

    Like

  37. Dr Hsu
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 13:46:50

    klm,
    I agree. Prosperity and cgood governance are the prerequisite for a successful government.

    Let us be realistic. The bulk f the voters on the ground are middle lower and lower income group. To them , livelihood is the most important. the other issues will not mean much to them if this group struggles to live…ANd their votes often decide who will rule.. In the States, these are called Joe 6 packs..

    As to how to get Penang back on track? There must be rethinking of strategies..

    Firstly, ask why China is so successful. I qoute the former Chinese leader Jiang Who mentioned a decade ago that the way to go for China is to have a well educated scientific class and astute and hard working workers.

    China is producing more engineers from its universities than the whole of West Europe combined…More students in Science streams. The biggest group of graduate students in the States, which still lead in technologies and research, is the Chinese. Some of them do not go back, but majority go back to CHina. These people form the basis of innovation that we are seeing…

    As to astute hard working workers, China has plenty. Most o fthe chinese working in factories understand what they are doing and they are seriuos about their jobs… Meaning that the knowledge level as well as the productivity of the chinese workers are much higher than us…

    Penang has to retrain its workforce….. Spend money on education, even if the money has to come from the state government.. . State sponsored institutes for certain science courses must be set up, in engineering fields as well as scientific research… Forget about the present public universities where the culture of excellence was long gone..

    For the working class, encourgae continued education. Gerakan’s wawasan open university is well run… Professor Danaraj, the Dean, is well respected, and I was lucky to have been briefed on the courses of the univsersity.. whoever wish to study, especially in science, and meet the minimal entrance requirement must be allowed to study there…. If the aspiring students have no money, the state must be prepared to fund it.

    Penang also have to switch from just an off shoring centre to a research based centred in electronics, as well as Bio-technology, nanotachnology , medical instrumentation,, pharmaceuticals and so on. The last few I mentioned are fields that are fairly recession proof…But do not forget , Penang is now competing with so many others aspiring to climb up the technological ladder.

    Get some of the former Penangites now working overseas to come back and open their branches in Penang.. the state must be prepared to cut red tapes to help these people to set up businesses…

    And as you have mentioned, venture capitalists from all over the world must be attracted to invest in Penang…Dr Lim used to go overseas to speak to industrialists and companies directors urging them to set up factories in Penang… of course these people won’t come unless there are certain incentives ; persoanlly rapport between the CM and these people will be important…

    Some of these cannot be carried out without the goodwill of the federal government. That was the dilemma faced by Dr Lim CHong Eu and that was one of the main reasons for him to take the party into BN….. But as I have said before, I was told that he would have expected Gerakan to come out if the affirmative policies were not reviewed in 1990, the year NEp was supposed to end.

    Looking at the polarised politics in malaysia, there is really no hope that the federal government will help Penang, so LGE will have to depend on his state government to deliver all these, maybe not within the first term but definitely he has to prove to Penang people that he can change Penang by the second term..

    Tourism used to be a big draw, but during this economic downturn, do not expect much from this source… especially when the state is so dirty and public transport is so lousy…

    Like

  38. klm
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 14:17:16

    .28 most probably will be made a minister.maybe in the ministry of wood and cocoa…. I pity the rubber trees and cocoa trees.

    Like

  39. klm
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 14:33:56

    I was taking to a VC friend. The problem with KTK Penang was that they only talk to Intel and Motorola and all the big established companies. Problem was that these companies gave only one side of the picture, their good side. This was one reason why Penang was not adequately prepared for the downturn.

    I think LGE is has the same problem until the rug was pulled from under his feet. That is why he is hopping on hot coals now. I hope he learned his lesson.

    Like you said, Lim Chong Eu talked to a lot of industrialist. In those days, he had no choice but to talk to new players. I don think he managed to convince RCA, GE, Westinghouse and the then established players. Some of the new players became giants of their industry.

    So now Penang must seek out the new rising players. The Old stars lik e Motorola and the other name are fading companies. Ditto to new Bio-technology, nanotachnology , medical instrumentation,, pharmaceuticals like you mentioned.

    The other problem Penang faces is that the comparative advantage that Lim Chong Eu had, is gone. New strategies need to be devised.

    Like

  40. vsvsv
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 15:53:20

    No need to mention power sharing mechanism, unfair treatment mechanism already exist for more than 50 yrs . PM’s ‘One Malaysia, Performance now, People first slogan’ is just a gimmick to win votes from chinese. This slogan only fit to be heard by Malays as we chinese are only”penumpang” in Malaysia.

    Like

  41. Dr Hsu
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 16:42:50

    Ministry of rubber and cocoa and wood .. because previously the saliva-spraying minister did a fairly good job to promote the the fruit oil, and wood of course. The present one is almost …..I just do not know how to describe…

    Like

  42. zztop
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 17:15:19

    Another big slap on the face of our sleepy, flip flop lame duck guy. This time by the one he himself have high esteem of. Really amazing.
    Why was these ISA guys not release during his tenure or better during his handover?? At least this way he has done one thing good for the rakyat. It seem that during his whole term this guy is just a puppet of the ruling party. He is just a figure head but has no say and power at all in the government administration.
    Moreover why release them during be-elections?
    And Isn’t arresting and then releasing people as they like is blatant injustice done to them and especially their families?
    I have my doubts about this new guy.
    New brooms sure sweep well. The rakyat hope all will be swept under the carpet after a while.
    All in all, I hope the voters in the 3 by-elections must support and vote for PKR at all cost irrespective.

    Like

  43. klm
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 17:39:30

    Oh. The Chinese DPM story. Seemed OTK did not say that. One of his guy, who want to ampu him mentioned that. So MCA has its share of syncopants.
    As noted, this position dont make sense and will not be made available for MCA.

    Like

  44. pohwatchdog
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 18:06:07

    One Malaysia concept. Performance Now, People First
    slogan the key word for the new administration. Hopefully this euphoria will really bring new meaning to all Malaysians. We want an efficient and better delivery system in our civil service, local government service and better transportation system.

    Malaysia need to move forward with meritocracy for all in a multi racial, multi cultural and multi religious society. We need to have an educated work force, proper planning for vocation training, job generating, better social service for those that need, better health service and lower cost of living. The rakyat is forgiving and willing to give back their support. It is not easy to govern a state without the support of the people. We have give a chance and use the chance to craete a better Malaysia for our next generation. We need logical and rational leader that care for all Malaysians.

    Like

  45. annoyed
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 18:08:33

    TDM helps in campaigning? Shelf life expired. No effect.

    Like

  46. annoyed
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 18:37:56

    Yes, Ignore Him (Dr. M)

    I was asked by a few reporters for my reaction on the possible return of Dr Mahathir to the Najib administration. My initial reaction was why bother about Mahathir. If we choose to ignore him long enough, he will soon realise that his era is over.

    Mahathir is a Machiavellian. A realist who hides a personal agenda in his every move. Mahathir will speak about unity, multiracialism and good governance when the message suits his agenda. On the same breath, this man can turn into a racist and a bigot.

    ……by Khoo Kay Peng

    http://khookaypeng.blogspot.com/2009/04/yes-ignore-him.html

    Like

  47. klm
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 22:10:16

    Dr . Hsu. Your ideas for Penang make sense. I think you would make a better CM than KTK and even LGE. You can see the future better.

    Like

  48. petestop
    Apr 06, 2009 @ 22:43:34

    Every new PM comes in, comes with new sloganeering.

    But the fundamental never change, BN is ruled by UMNO and UMNO alone.

    MCA asking for DPM2, what laughable idea, UMNO must be laughing their head off.

    MCA’s Tun Tan Siew Sin have been waiting… and waiting… and waiting…. to be DPM till he finally even lost the Finance Ministry, which until today MCA have never regained.

    What laughable idea of “power sharing” concept, it is more like UMNO grab all, the rest just keeps begging for pseudo-“power”.

    Just like KTK still waiting to be appointed Minister…

    Really, worse than beggar…

    Like

  49. klm
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 09:33:31

    Dr Hsu. the minister with spraying saliva – we can argue about his character and other things, but you have to give it to him that he has leadership. He is no intellectual. He is the type who lead from the front. Saliva spraying and slaying the obstacles.

    KTK does not come close to him. KTK is just a number checker. I can bet he will be a lackluster minister, that is if he is appointed. He will be swallowed by the bureaucrats.

    With the backing of a voter base, he is nothing. He will not have equal voice at the table. A wimp.

    Like

  50. klm
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 09:34:08

    Soor. I mean without the backing of a voter base, he is nothing.

    Like

  51. A true Malaysian
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 12:23:06

    Tonight IS the Night,
    to show them our Might,
    just sit Tight Tonight,
    to celebrate our Might,
    and begin new dawn with Light.

    With new dawn with Light,
    Our future shall be bright,
    Lets show them our Might,
    Tonight Is the Night,

    Reveal what is right,
    Erase wrong with right,
    That’s also our rights,
    Tonight IS the Night.

    Like

  52. Dr Hsu
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 14:15:04

    Wow, A True Malaysian

    Very good poetry… Keep it up.

    SImple verses but sums up the sentiments of the people..

    Like

  53. A true Malaysian
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 14:38:29

    Dr. Hsu,

    Justin Choo gave me the ‘inspiration’. He started with “Tonight Is the Night”, I continue the rest.

    Everyone here, you can cut and paste my ‘poetry’….no copy right….but alright to copy

    Like

  54. klm
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 14:48:34

    A true Malaysian

    Wow. Very Omar Khayyam.

    May I add to it with an optimistic note.

    Tomorrow is in sight
    New dawn in light
    New hope shine bright
    Life journey in daylight

    Like

  55. A true Malaysian
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 15:01:21

    Bravo to you, klm. all true Malaysians are sharing the same hope like you and me.

    Life journey in daylight
    Make Malaysia bright
    Tonight IS the Night

    Like

  56. Observer
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 17:29:43

    We`ll sit tight,
    a starry starry night.
    A champion in sight,
    soaring new new heights.

    Nizar, the brave knight;
    shouldering the rakyat`s might.
    Fighting the people`s fight;
    putting wrongdoers in flights

    Like

  57. annoyed
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 19:32:07

    Bright light is in sight
    Umno better hold tight
    Admit the people’s might
    Recognise their rights

    Cilipadi is right
    To vote PR with might
    To fight, fight and fight
    Till victory is insight

    Like

  58. annoyed
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 20:48:33

    BN is not in sight
    are they still in fight?
    or go holiday in flight?
    wonder where are your mights

    Cilipadi is not always right
    but this time he or she is right
    Malaysians need to fight
    Insist what is right

    Like

  59. pohwatchdog
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 21:30:55

    Not all is gone,
    BN is still in power,
    Choice have been make,
    Life move on,
    Performance goes on

    Like

  60. klm
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 21:41:26

    the results are good tonight,
    Yes, tonight is the night,
    pom pom girls and
    maggi mee cannot
    change wrong to right,

    Like

  61. Disgusted
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 21:53:41

    Dedicate this poem to Cilipadi:

    Pooh, pooh the dog,
    Brain like a log,
    Tonight is the light,
    Tomorrow will be bright,
    Two “bukits” Pakatan created a fracas,
    BN become a carcass,
    With only one “batang”
    Yes, 13th general election, akan datang,
    Pooh, pooh, the dog will watch the poll,
    Taking its toll,
    Bury BN,
    Amen

    monk

    Like

  62. Kenny
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 22:04:08

    Overwhelming support form non-Malays have sealed the victory in the 2 Bukits. Chinese and Indians have sent a clear message to MCA, MIC and Gerakan. You don’t represent us anymore, Get Lost!

    Like

  63. cilipadi
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 22:12:27

    pohwatchdog is in fright
    ’cause Umno lost its might
    cilipadi is right
    vote PR with might

    Tonight Is the Night
    Malaysian has shown their might
    Nizar is Malaysia’s pride
    He fights for Malaysian’s plight

    send pohwatchdog in flight
    ’cause he is in fright
    its master lost its might
    cilipadi is right

    monk is not in sight
    maybe goes celebrate tonight
    with his hot chillies and might
    cilipadi miss him tonight

    Like

  64. Dr Hsu
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 22:18:44

    2 Bukits show the light,
    Gerakan has no might,
    Kuala Sepetang used to be its likes,
    People have abandoned the party alright.

    For Malaysia the future looks bright
    But for Gerakan, it is not so right
    despite its members working tight
    It cannot win the NOnMalay’s likes

    The sky is bright
    Another BUkit will be in the fight
    Lanjan is the name of the blight
    The coming fight does not look right or bright…

    Like

  65. A true Malaysian
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 22:42:00

    Fight, fight and fight
    When can we stop the fight
    KTK still think he is right
    but he has lost his might

    Justin Choo is right
    Tonight IS the Night
    Without Justin’s Night
    No poem tonight

    Cilipadi is right
    Monk is also right
    Vote PR is right
    To fight for Malaysian’s rights

    PAS moon is bright
    PKR eyes give us light
    DAP rocket is might
    PR leads Malaysia to right

    Gerakan, where is your pride
    If you know the meaning of pride
    Pull out of BN tonight
    If you still care of your pride

    Umno not care of all Malaysian’s rights
    It cares only of Malay’s pride
    2 Bukits proved Malays are right
    If not, why PR won 2 Bukits with might

    Another Bukit fight is in sight
    Cilipadi again is right
    Vote PR with might
    To keep Malaysia sky bright

    Fight, fight and fight
    Till Umno is in flight

    Like

  66. Disgusted
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 22:59:03

    Cilipadi.

    You are right,
    But no celebration tonight,
    Although my heart is light,
    Everything is back in sight,
    From dark to bright,
    I am not in flight,
    Here, I am here alrightt,
    AAAhhh, I can sleep tight tonight.

    monk

    Like

  67. cilipadi
    Apr 07, 2009 @ 23:20:01

    monk.

    I know you are not in flight
    Of course you are alright
    Lets sleep tight tonight
    Begin new dawn with light

    Let us relax tonight
    Since no celebration tonight
    Recharge battery with might
    To make sure we are still in fight

    I hope I am right
    I share Malaysian’s plight
    Outsider’s view may not always right
    At least I hold myself with pride

    Mighty M is has no more might
    Like M, N is in fright
    Still ignorance of Altantuya’s plight
    Umno is sooner in flight

    Good night tonight
    My heart is also light
    Recharge battery with might
    To make sure we are still in fight

    Like

  68. klm
    Apr 08, 2009 @ 11:08:20

    UMNO cannot add right
    They are not so bright
    The night that was the night
    Gave them a hugh fright

    Gerakan did no right
    was the losing blight
    Pom pom girls its only fight
    It has lost it bite

    One step into the light
    Make the state upright
    But cretins knows no right
    Still think might is right

    Like

  69. klm
    Apr 08, 2009 @ 11:11:32

    Charge the battery with might
    We still have to fight
    One step to the right
    We will feel alright

    Like

  70. pohwatchdog
    Apr 08, 2009 @ 18:37:26

    Another day in sight,
    Not all is lose
    Time to recoup
    For another show

    Nothing is frighted
    Emotion is not right
    Sense just not right
    Feeling not right

    Like

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