Some time ago, I have tea with a friend who happens to be a Singapore government official. He was amazed by our procedure of procurements which has led to so much of abuses year in and year out.
He told me that in Singapore, anything that is above $3000 must go through a procurement procedure that is designed to prevent abuses and wastage.
If any department needs to buy anything above that value, it has to prepare a proposal listing the requirements, the needs and the probable items in the market and submit that to a evaluation committe. The evaluation committe will look through the proposal, and see whether there is a real need for such items and whether there is a cheaper alternative to the proposed items. It will then pass its recommendation to a procurement team.
The procurement team will look at the various products in the market s and invite tender or bidding. It will then look through all the submitted bidding, and make an recommendation. The recommendation will go back to both the department concerned (the end-product users) and the evaluation committee. when all three agree, the procurement team will then purchase the item/s. It sounds tedious, but apparently, it works quite fast as long as the 3 parties concerned do not drag their feet. It can be a matters of days or weeks before a things can be procured.
I googled for the actual procedure and there is in fact a site on this procurement procedure. Go to this link:
http://www.rikvin.com/blog/singapore-government-launch-web-portal-gebiz/
Once such habit of going for the best items with the best pricing was formed, even for items less than $3000 would be bought with careful thought and often items procured are really ‘value for money’.
Little wonder why the little red dot has one of the lowest leakage and wastage in the world, along with Hong Kong.
Instead of pledging to take action against those errant civil servants every year after the Auditor General’s report was published, what should be done is to revamp our procurement procedure and tighten the loopholes that civil servants used to buy at many times the market rate. Punitive action must also be taken instead of issuing a warning letter, as in most cases in the past.
Dr. Hsu's forum 
Nov 04, 2011 @ 13:24:53
I am sure there is a SOP for all procurement in this country as well but at every level someone may want to have a share in it, that is why almost all government contracts are between 30% to 50% higher than usual.
There are ways and means to stop all these but its against umno policy not to touch anyone of them hence MACC cannot do much.
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Nov 04, 2011 @ 22:15:33
More on the “Predatory State”.
Click to access Predatory%20leaderships,%20predatory%20rule%20and%20predatory%20states.pdf
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Nov 05, 2011 @ 00:17:38
Both the red dots are administered by Chiese following the colonial system n practice passed down from the British.
The system is one elements, the characters pf the people working in the system is the determining factors. In the private sector, we hv a saying that there is no such thing as good company policies, there is only good managers or the lack of it.
When the top is rotten, the rest follow suits.
This kind of problem can be very tough and painful to fix. In Cambodia, they used Killing Fields. In Afgnan, they hv Taliban.
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Nov 05, 2011 @ 07:54:08
Doc,
Out of curiosity how different is their (spore) procurement procedure with our procurement procedure? How many percent of our purchases which does not follow the procedure? There are issues in the AG report. But not sure whether You’re barking at the right tree. Let’s take instance in selangor who has formed the transparent SELCAT. It’s really unclear where the money for their subsidized water subsidy came from in the state accounts. But what is telling is the audit in their subsidiary companies. Let’s take AG report on kdeb (selangor water company) where the mb is the president. Other members are state officials.
Since pr took over kdeb Their debt has increased to 122 million from a profitable company. What is telling in the 2010 audit report is:
1) There is no internal audit. 2) no regular board meeting 3) Audit committee not functioning. 4) bonus payment not according to regulation. AG even recommended that they should follow a number of treasury directives.
Now this is damning as much as the NFC Sharizat imbroglio. Here there’s not even an audit committee functioning despite SELCAT supervising this.
What does it show? Apart from bn and pr politicians being the same, I think issue is deeper. So long as the incentives and disincentives in politics do not change we will get the same crap value politicians and blind supporters.
I’ve been proponent that to cut all this crap many things can be improved by making the bureaucracy efficient, Cut down processes where it involves discretion, introduce technology and making output comparable. But Were just too partisan. We use AG report as a political tool and not the way to go about improving things. Solution to AG federal report is to change bn government. But solution to AG selangor state report of equalling or much more damning revelation is not to change pr government. And if for bn supporters it’s vice versa. How can this be. Very short sighted shallow thinking.
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Nov 05, 2011 @ 09:15:50
Ellese, I did not single out BN or PR in my post, so please do not be too partisan when you yourself are always asking people not to be partisan..
In fact, in all your comments vehemently defending BN even when there is obvious wrong doings, you are setting an example of being very partisan. I do not blame you since we all have this fault: we can see other people’s backs, but we cannot see our own , and this is a fact unless you can twist your head 360degree. (The worst type are those who are paid to look at other people’s backs, they don’t even look at their own fronts– of course, I do not mean you).
The issue here is that we need a better procurement procedure, or if there is one and no one is following theSOP, then a better supervisory system.
My post is a general commentary asking our government (meaning all those in power, whether BN or PR) to avoid wastage, using singapore as an example..
What is obvious is that when things are procured at many times the market rate (for example, the binoculars and many many other examples in the AG report year in and year out), there is really something wrong.
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Nov 05, 2011 @ 09:45:27
In 2006, I did a research on national Health scheme ( the paper is available in this blog below the mast head, it was also recently been published in FOMCA’s journal March 2011 issue with my permission, and it was also widely downloaded by many medical directors and so on).
This is from that research:
“For example, in 1993, the procurement of medicine for government hospitals and clinic (medical store) was privatized and the cost of medicine doubled the following year. In 1996, following the privatization of five more areas including laundry, cleaning, equipment maintenance, waste disposal and facilities
maintenance, the costs for these services skyrocketed from Rm140million to RM450 million the following year.(4)”
The procurement of medicine was through a private bumi company which buys from the general market(meaning other companies which either import or manufacture the drugs) at low price and sell it back to the government pharmacy at a different rate. Before this, most companies could sell direct to the government, and the cost was only half .. The procurement of laundry service skyrocketed to RM450 from RM140, immediately after it was given to a private company. Before that, laundry services were done by each individual hospital through their amah and attendants.
This is in the 90s.. The figures are even higher now.
Then there are the huge amount of commissions paid out to the middle men company when procuring our submarines and sukhoi jets. Why can’t the government have its own evaluation and procurement teams, when we have such huge number of civil servants?
Things may remain the same, better or even worse if PR gets elected, but without trying them out one term, how are we going to effect change?
Only when we establish a system where we can throw out the corrupted, can we slowly change this culture of corruption and abuse, and establish a system of transparency and accountability.
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Nov 05, 2011 @ 10:27:38
Dear Dr Hsu
On the subject of procurement procedures, it is time for the voters to have a change in the leaderships of running Malaysia. Too much money and minerals resources are misused for personal ends. A system ilrespective how good, lies on the trustworthy leaders be in the BN or whoever runs the government. It is sad malaysia a nation is ruined by politcians for own gains. Voters open your eyes.
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Nov 05, 2011 @ 11:31:03
On procurement for rice by Bernas. Bernas dont buy rice directly from Vietnam or Cambodia etc. They go through intermediary. Price do not matter to Bernas. They get a cut, markup and sell to the public. We ended up pay a percentage to some one private pocket and pay high price for rice.
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Nov 05, 2011 @ 16:15:07
That comment by Doc to Ellese is timely and correct.
She/he must be gun down the moment she/he starts to insult others.
There is no doubt in my mind…she/he is here to promote BN and accused others as pro this pro that….as if she /he is sitting on the fence..pro nothing.
Claiming she/he has met many like me in the streets and won all arguments is enough to tell you this hollow braggart do talk through her/his nose.
Yes…Doc…keep gunning down double headed snakes commentators..come here to accuse others for what they are…an art…Mahathir is very good at.
“The worst type are those who are paid to look at other’s backs, they don’t even look at their own fronts-of course I don’t mean you”…said Doc.
Ellese better look at the mirror and see what kind of a person is she or a he is……which Prof. Puah has made me wonder …male or female.
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Nov 05, 2011 @ 16:27:29
Auditor General have said it all over and over again….and yet MACC never check the details and bring the crooks to court.
Do that….no enough jails to house all crooks..including many from MACC.
They will never do it….for everyone is taking a cut…commission…making an item 100 times dearer than usual.
Waste of time to keep exposing them.
Just vote them out and be done with it.
For Ellese who is so well educated… cannot see the massive corruptions and say no differences between BN and PR…and still say all streetfighters lost arguing with her/him?
OK…bye bye again….before cilipadi bring my blood pressure up.
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Nov 05, 2011 @ 16:57:23
I would like to wish Ellese and all muslim readers a Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Adha..
Regards,
sally
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Nov 05, 2011 @ 18:45:12
Dear Dr Hsu
The examples you gave are all cases of rent-seeking capitalism.
Create artificial “rents” through political means where none existed previously.
So much for choosing the strategy of privatisation to make the health care system and the “health care market” work more efficiently !
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 05:55:20
Dear doc,
Well i agree with your write on AG and never ask people to support bn. Criticize both bn and pr. Anyway i have to Apologize to you. I read your write and all the comments (including previous by phua which i thought instigated this write) and when i wrote i had the other comments in mind as well. Shouldnt address to you alone. it’s just that I am simply exasperated that we focus on the wrong thing. When pemudah was set up I think we should have put a lot of pressure in that direction. Many just could not relate improvement of bureaucracy will lessen corruption tremendously. This to me an important feature of singaporean system which cuts down corruption. The system of rewards and incentives very much alter culture. High civil servant pay, efficient bureaucracy and disincentive (punishment) for bribe are key to lessen corruption. It’s not merely change in personnel with another of the same value.
To me this was an essential mindset. We lessen discretion and red tape and coincidentally we get better service. But because of partisanship we just can’t get through first base.
I just feel we have not been pressuring political parties to work for us. Rather than they fight for our interest we fight for them. This is simply not right in my eyes.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 06:23:24
Dear mOnsterball,
I highlighted the selangor fiasco to highlight our value on corruption and partisanship.
If were really into AG report and against corruption and rent seeking we should condemn both federal and selangor government in equal verve. You can’t highlight just one and suppress the other. That’s what politicians (all bn and PR) do. We must go beyond this.
I want us to go deeper to provide solution. Until our political incentives and disincentives change politician will remain the same. So we put mechanism in to change. For example a two party system is good for us at the moment. (to me what matters are strong opposition). There’s some good change in our growing process. Ppsmi movement for instance (again disagree with phua’s write on TMI) show that citizens are able to get both parties to respond and hear them. This is good development. What is comical is respond of both. Now bn made some concession to PAGE (flip flopping?) and pr playing both sides (pkr went for Malay votes to say no to ppsmi dap say yes for urban votes and pas can’t afford to make a stand). What rubbish is this. Parties must make stand for us to decide. It’s not us who should follow them.
So you need to wake up and decide whether we serve them or they serve us.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 07:11:55
Ellese….you are an idiot trying to be too smart.
She are very lonely bitch…. wanting attention.
You insult once and start your nonsense to agree and disagree with Doc.
You dare not offend him twice at a stretch.
When things cool down…you start insulting again.
Get it into your thick skull……BN and PR are totally different.
Talking corruptions…your opinion sucks!!
Lets hope you are still awake at my age.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 07:21:50
Dear doc,
I’ve reread your reply after my posting and felt a bit unfair. Not sure which position you said I defend bn vehemently but if you’re referring to lynas I have to greatly differ. On lynas my position is pro nuclear power plant which I’ve advocated for quite a while. When lynas issue blew up I took a neutral stand with a die hard anti lynas supporter and went through one very deep debate to understand the issue. He/she was a good academician with deep knowledge. But even with that debate i realize that none were able to articulate their radiation level which they are objecting. That’s when I thought this is too much politics. And see that similarly here. Then when PAS mp (who who if not mistaken has phd in this area) disagree publicly with fuziah it dealt a nail in the coffin on this issue. That’s why I’m disdainful with phua for His reply categorizing me as bn propagandist and not rebutting the points. He treated me as if I can’t think and have an independent mind and I will treat him likewise.
There are two issues that you raise which I thought pertinent. One defense procurement and the other privatization. On defense procurement my main problem is that I can’t get apple to apple comparison. My impression now is that the whole defense industry worldwide is rigged with corruption and unaccounted unjustified commission. Because of security issues I just can’t confirm the facts and make similar comparison. This is one tough nut area to break in. When sukhoi combines with undisclosed specs on western avionics and missile system it opens up to incomparable environment. We need a better system in defense procurement. But from my read, even US defense procurement is susceptible. We need to come up with a different mechanicm. This requires further discussion.
On health privatization, your referral is pertinent. If that is the case it makes no sense and an absolute waste of our money. Rubbish concession in fact. Can you allude me to the paper for me to read. Need to read more on the health industry before commenting further.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 07:23:06
To all celebrating Eid, selamat Hari Raya Haji.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 07:32:59
I am not interested to argue with you,
I am interested to EXPOSE you.
You do your best to advertise I am a sleepy person…and idiot like you..and lets see who will believe you.
U students…street walkers and kopitiam fellas need not have a bitch like you to them anything…who are they ….what are they.
You go and offer free milk to BN sex maniacs.
Chua Soi Lek will love to have you as a plaything.
Freedom Fighters have no time to argue and play your again…to agree and disagree,
Don’t lump yourself into US!!
You are not US. You are a BN supporter with a sick mind…that can change.
US are FOR or AGAINST and US are FOR CHANGE.
No need to talk cock and bull with me..when you ignore massive CORRUPTIONS….dirty race and religion politics applied for decades by your heroes.
We want to fight…we fight…but we will not give the first blow.
We will absorb and shame them.
Presuming you are a lady….you prepare yourself to nurse the wounded and smoother them with any charm left in you to give.
Stop talking politics. You are not qualified but a text book bitch yearning for attention to put out all your crabs in this blog.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 07:36:02
yea….change the subject and be nice to everyone.
Only an idiot does not know..Sally was laughing at Ellese.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 08:05:36
In war..we do not address anyone…”dear”
No one is dear to me when votes are concern.
Are we at war with UMNO b?
Sure we are.
Our Freedom Fighters have arrived and Ellese cannot differentiate between the good guys and bad guys.
What an idiot she is….yet trying to project how smart she is.
Me..wake up????
At my age is a daily blessing to be able to wake up from sleep.
Can you guarantee you have the blessings I am enjoying….you sickening bragging fool?
So you think your brain is better than mine?
Come to LKS’s blog and talk like this and ALL will stuff cilipadi into your filthy mouth.
Dare not come….stay nice…be nice…and talk nice here …not show off how smart you are.
OK..I leave again and I am sure…chilipadi will say….”Leave..no one will miss you”
Yes I know….but I leave before
“someone” give me warning…and upset my good good day.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 08:20:16
One more serious comment….before I leave.
Anyone wondering why Najib and Rosmah went to Mecca?
Commonsense tells you…to ask for forgiveness from Allah.
Then what?
Then come back..feeling all sins are forgiven..return to Malaysia and announce the date of 13th GE.
CHEERIO!!!
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 11:08:02
Be fair to the host, how he could stay quiet if his blog is stuffed with word like idiot, bitch, plaything, crab (this is apt description especially to hmmm…, when people expect him to walk straight, he scurry sideway and still insist he is right)?
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 11:21:38
“Parties must make stand for us to decide.”
Ellese, you are right, and that is their stand, in fact no one expect member among PR must share similar stand, moreover and as of now, it is purely their view and opinion. But BN is different, they are the government and their decision affect everyone, by looking at this PPSMI thingy since it was implemented, don’t you think this government should have pack long time ago?
I really can’t believe how ridiculous and how unwise our government can be on education issue. You know why I am insist not to have one school until we have a more clear and objective pertaining to education, it is all about politics now. Truly upset!
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 12:18:37
Be fair to the host when one don’t even have one iota of respect to offer him.When none will give two hoots of what popped up from this unbalanced arm critic head,finally he appeared to go along with Ellese to agree and disagree.Another BN propagandist that’s it.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 15:36:26
Dr Hsu’s blog readers should just ignore this Ellese character.
No point wasting band width debating with him/her!
(Din Merican booted this person out eventually from his blog)
Selamat Hari Raya to all our Muslim fellow Malaysians (and Muslim
non-Malaysian blog readers too).
Interesting book I am currently in the midst of reading:
http://www.zedbooks.co.uk/paperback/the-resistible-rise-of-market-fundamentalism
I have always had a lot of respect for the work done by the economists at
UNCTAD.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 22:41:23
Hallo cili,where are you?It’s has been such a long due time since we last heard from you?In Mekah with muslim friends,korek?Or is it you busy carrying Rosmah’s birkin bags around?Or you no more care about Bolehland’s affair already kah?We could no longer take on Ellese’s constant lectures anymore,you know?This is the perfect time your help to clear things up would be much aprreciated.Now is the good season to plant your cili here and spread them all over this Boleh-Punya-Land for everyone to rasa pedas.Even Rhan can’t talk much,think much and judge much like before without your pedas cili.So please,don’t give up on Bolehland.We need to change the government of the day as well as to suit your comfort of future stay.Over to you.Bye bye now.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 23:05:42
Monsterball,
You are funny. Instead of exposing me, you actually have shown or exposed your true colour. You actually don’t care about corruption. All you care is that pr wins. That’s why if pr is corrupt before your eyes you can accept it. Look at the AG report and the value uphold by Selangor administration. No audit at all resulting hundreds of million losses. Why is this not similar to the NGC fiasco? I can understand politicians for behaving like this since all of them are the same. But you blindly follow for what? Please be frank whether you’re a high ranking pr components parties officer who is hoping to benefit when in power? If not I don’t understand your values and mindset unless you typify what you normally accuse me of : “sick mind”. So step back and evaluate.
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Nov 06, 2011 @ 23:29:41
This phua is persistent in reminding the bloghost to ban me. What have I done? Just because I gave contrarion views he espoused to curtail my right to express. I have not advocated violence and employ the same disdainful manner he argued. He wants people to remember how din Merican protected his crony who was unable to defend himself and had resorted to animal name calling. He is just like UMNO and bn he hatedd. Any contrarion view is ban. Dins manner in protecting uncouth cronies and ban contrarion view is highly regarded by him. What a screw up value he has. I just hope he does not treat his students the same way. Otherwise we will get brain dead students who can only excel by kowtowing to his lecturers views and way of thinking. What a sad reflection of the state of affair of pr propagandists.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 06:10:42
Dear Rhan,
There are many issues in education which includes among others the disenfranchisement of the education system itself. Since our last discourse PAGE is pushing it through it being an option.
As a principle, though I want PPSMI, prof Ishak study of declining standard show we don’t have much option but to arrest the alarming declining standards in maths and science to bm. The concept proposed now is to raise the English standard through English subject. My youngest son is affected but I think it makes sense. I’ll check the syllabus to confirm and comment on it later.
But what is more disturbing is the further polarisation of our education under the pretext of freedom of information. One phua wrote an article published in tmi on this. (tmi is back at censoring my comments again!!!). I guess it’s the same phua here. If want we can debate from there. I don’t believe there’s much change in policy since our last discourse save may be the concession to ppsmi. If doc hsu okay perhaps we do a new thread on education. We need to realize what we want. From our last discourse my stand is still the same: we should move towards problem based learning than the rote method. Bm should be the medium of instruction while English should be upgraded drastically. And I’m still against polarization of our kids into racial/ religious groups or urban/ rural background. I believe PAGE solution is shortsighted and does not benefit us in the long run. But admit we need to improve our education system further.
Would prefer an educationist specialist be involved in the discourse. Do you know any doc?
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 09:25:18
Sorry… from procurement to PPSMI. The record shows that only 7% of schools implement PPSMI !? How come?
Japan is a developed and industrialized nation but their people remain very Japanese. The Japanese are very loyal, patriotic and united people. Yet most Japanese do not speak/understand English.
If MBMMBI “can contribute towards the creation of one Bangsa Malaysia and put an end to ethnic polarization in schools and universities, we must have the moral courage and political will to accept and support it.”
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 10:52:42
All the pro BN idiots are back!
Yes…idiots they are.
Just look at Ellese…how she keep on proving what a smart bitch she is…yet she confess she does not understand.
You can imagine a lady getting no loving attentions fro hubby….turn nuts and look for attention here…to pass her lonely nights.
hi…Ellese..Freedom Fighters do not carry any party balls.
We are fighting to free Malaysians….and wait for her to reply…PR and BN no differences..both are corrupted and racists…this and that.
And as for …Prof. Phua …please must stop reminding us what Ellese was in Din Marican blog.
We are not interested to expose her based on that reason. After all….all blog owners are no saints and do ban anyone they like….including me.
I hope Prof. help to face Ellese face to face and expose her….without any conditions.
He is smart enough to do that.
As for Rhan…that arm chair critic is well taken cared by StreeFighter…another Freedom Fighter…no carrying any party balls too.
Cilipadi .sitting on the dock.waiting all the boats sail by…do not know what to say.
He was insulted by Ellese too.
Perhaps his one Malay friend told him to keep quiet.
Afterall..he cannot vote..why be a busybody?…and that make StreetFighter less fun to comment.
Aiz???…..left when his balls shrink and com e back…seeing his BN supporters are talking….and for his comment….I have one advise for him.
Think of the school children and stop talking politics on Education matters.
The school children are put on a ding dong position by our Govt. with not one iota of concern and responsibilities for their futures. All the are concern is to protect the weaklings Malays they created and make sure all their votes to UMNO b to protect them…for God only know…protect then from what devils?
This is not a Forum.
It has turned to be… a FOR or AGAINST blog…by the grace of God……where blog owner is totally helpless…HAHAHAHAHAHAHA
But he should show his true color…by watching out Ellese or debate with her..to expose her in his own fine style.supporting CHANGE of Govt…which we all know..he is.
Not good enough….must help hantam Ellese…the ring leader.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 10:57:01
By the way…..Ellese DAP does not allow his members to use foul words.
So don’t conclude I am pro DAP..this or that.
I will vote for CHANGE and no matter how much you try to tell readers there are no differences..between the two groups…you are making a fool of your self.
You WAKE UP….not me.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 11:02:22
“How come?”
Good question. 1) limit of time 2) exam result oriented and 3) how we expect teacher that don’t grasp English to teach M&S in English? Ask teacher that teach, they all know very well what happen.
Mahathir is still the biggest threat to Malaysian progress, he lacks capacity to understand Malaysian besides our paranoia, and that is why most of his idea lead to harm than good.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 11:06:39
like I said before, imitation is the highest form of flattery, but the flattery still worth zilch, by merely repeated the same phrase while changing a few words, that’s what kids do. pity street education.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 11:27:27
Ellese
Rote method serves the eastern society well in the last hundred years, the so-called innovative mind has everything to do with culture, renaissance is the prime cause. I don’t think the problem base learning would help unless everyone of us could embrace Elton John with open mind. We are running in circle and recreate wheel by proposing this and that when we know we can’t do much onto the root cause, that is why I prefer the relatively static vernacular school and CIS, we move slowly but objective is much clearer, we have a much wider choice not limited to western education.
PPSMI clearly show the indecisive of Malay intellectual, they don’t know what they want. Their willy-nilly stance and ‘influenced’ by politician make the whole issue muddle up with language, race, nationalism and etc etc while forget the main, ie education.
I am willing to debate on this if Hsu open a thread.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 11:28:06
‘pity street education”…Rhan said.
Go find out how many so call well educated buggers like him..work for street educated people.
Some needs text books to get a degree.
Many street Malaysians are self taught and with practical experiences that are ten time smarter than Rhan….our residence arm chair critic,
“That’s what kids do” so said Rhan again.
I think he is a bujang….not a father at all…and here he talk how he understands how kids think…as if he is a father of one dozen kids.
PS: Wait for him to disappear!!
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 11:38:08
First Ellese ask Doc for permission to use vulgar words which she knows Doc will never reply..
Then she put out a subject and ask Doc to allow a debate.
Now Rhan…applying the same method…making this blog a “Debating Society” blog….to divert attentions on “FOR or AGAINST” Forum.
No wonder he keeps on having no respect to Dr, Hsu at all..calling him
“Hsu” all the time..as if the doctorate degree is a false one.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 11:44:44
What’s so smart about to debate on Education matters?
All know UMNO b is protecting the weakling Malays..they created.
Just vote UMNO b out…is the only solution to save school children being used and confused by a racists corrupted Govt.
So said a street educated man…against a self proclaimed Professor arm chair critic.
Lets see who is right.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 11:48:15
aiya…why all so quiet?
Talk la…hantam BN hantus… cukop cukop.
I leave again.
Those idiots are not worth too much of my precious time,
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 12:20:47
Where have all the commentators gone to?
Is it ignoring or have no ideas what to say?
Prof should start off challenging Ellese.
Do not let pro BN ikan bilis think we are selfish idiots too.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 15:05:59
I think all readers are entitled to their own opinion. It will be pretty boring if everybody say “Yes, Dr Hsu”. After all it is not a slam dunk shot for BN to win this GE13. It is not important who wins as long it is clean, fair and well supported by the people.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 16:32:59
It is not a matter of who wins.It must be a change of Govt.
Is azi telling all BN can keep on winning forever?
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 17:37:38
Dear streetfighter,
Lets keep some personal comments/answers that can likely cause pain to people just to ourselves. But one day the more transparent, tolerant and mature Malaysian we become, the greater Malaysia will be. We should not read as BN or UMNO b/propagandist in everything posted or printed in blogs/media that is not favorable to us.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 21:45:35
hi aiz, I am not a pro propagandist for PR.
You are from your past comments a pro BN propagandist.
I am a freedom fighter.
Don’t label me to any political party.”
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 21:50:36
Dr, the current administration has been looking the other way for a long time now so much so that their neck is stiff from doing that. They cant even look straight even if they want to. There in lies the problem – it is institutionalised. To resolve this problem it needs to be fundamentally reset. my choice is very clear in this instance.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 22:23:08
either you are with me or you are against me
this false dichotomy scare the hell out of me,
the world revolve around nobody else but you and me,
so don’t label me, don’t name calling me, don’t verbal abuse me, don’t use foul language on me,
it is all about me, me, me, me, me…….
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 22:55:52
Dear streetfighter… please read my comments on Prudence and Wisdom Nov 3 2011 [19:03:59].
Btw I am not concerned by the commentators political ideology or inclination, but with the arguments that each side presented on what we can do as a nation to give a better life, life of dignity, to our people and how we live with each other in peace, mutual respect and harmony.
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Nov 07, 2011 @ 22:58:06
In this house if it’s not about you or me,who else?You can talk how great your BN political master is and lead voters to KIV their votes,i will hunt you down.So it comes back between you and me.Dare you feed your corrupted mind into young voters,i will take on you.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 05:26:10
Wa,,,,,I can see “aiz” can really talk cock and bull….part preaching…part advertising…just like his flip flopping masters.
hhhmmmm..”we live with each other in peace, mutual respect and harmony”
aisay…aisay..aisay….say this AFTER 13th GE la….not now.
Like I say…this cock and bull will not work with freedom fighters.
Why so smart to talk like a preacher?
You afraid to die and go to hell?
If you are really that good….you should come out and F those political crooks..but you keep quiet.
Yip….StreetFighter….your eyes are sharp and you are right.
I am with you..
I will not be surprise this aiz toad will ask all not to over stay hospitality…as if leaving for a long long time…but once saw his BN propagandist friends are all back…he is back like Flash Gordon.
Steetfighter….we can see no one have balls to stand up for real freedom against these buggers.
Go and have a good breakfast…..and relax…and learn to cool down.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 05:44:18
I do not know whether streetfighter 22:58:06 is meant for me. If it does, from the outset it appears that streetfighter is accusing me of having an evil mind and hence his warning. I hope it is just emotion and not communal tendencies. My regret that you have expressed your stand on the freedom of expression/opinions crystal clear.
I can understand your sentiments. And I would say that not everything about our nation is good. There are numerous flaws and shortcomings. But there are many bumiputeras who are not dependent on the nation’s spoon-feeding and most of the bumiputeras are not rich either. They are fighting their own battle just to put food on the table.
As for you and me, instead of being angry with and threatening one another for what we see as our misfortune, we should continue to work together and build upon what we have.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 05:53:32
That pariah arm chair critic is at it again.
This time.the subject is “ME” …hitting at StreetFighter.
He is the most selfish ….ill mannered commentator her declaring himself…an arm chair critic…..yes tell all about HIMSELF….an ARM CHAIR CRITIC…and here he is talking about “ME” to hit a StreetFighter,
I can see…StreetFighter have no time for this good for nothing braggart….totally no manners to others. ..and that is also a trademark of all BN propagandists in this blog.
Freedom Fighters just F all and be done with it.
Once you are lead to be nice and DISCUSS with them…their missions are BN ARE accomplished.
I hope smart Prof.Puah can see that clearly and lead the debate FOR or AGAINST…and not agree to disagree which Ellese…who is the ring leader… with Rhan following her smelly backside…for reasons…only Rhan knows why.
He must have lots of wet dreams doing that.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 06:03:17
My above comment have few typing mistakes that give out no meaning.
Most important is…””Once you are lead to DISCUSS with them..their missions for BN are accomplished.”…..so beware…talk FOR or AGAINST…not agree to disagree.
Umpteen times I have said this….and silence is not golden.
It is not helping others…while the BN propagandists are trying hard to win every vote…like their political masters.
Your personal vote means nothing…if you dare not confront them.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 06:12:56
hi “aIz”…..just declare you will vote against BN and l Streetfighter and me will let you go.
In Mecca you have to swear .. you are a Muslim.before entering.
Why can’t you swear..you will vote for change and stop telling us about your family matters.
Millions of families suffered for nothing and freedom fighters are fighting for them.
You are a good Muslim?….good for you….but the Way of Life in Malaysia are being made miserable by non other that UMNO b Muslims…encouraged by Mahathir and Najib.
Are you blind over past events?
Stop talking how much you may suffer and program readers to vote for peace and harmony…indirectly…asking voters to vote for no change?
Who do you think you are trying to fool?
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 06:19:44
Forgive and forget.
They have learn their lessons.
They will be better..be humble and listen to Malaysians.
They ask for forgiveness.
PS: If anyone can forgive peo0le who stole billions and teach his own race to be corrupted…they mus be out of their minds….for these rouges and thieves not only steal. They jail or make Malaysians leave the country..to shut mouths….and kill with no fear.
hi aiz…why are you avoiding these issues?
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 06:26:47
azi….StreetFighter and I don’t trust you…no matter what you say…simple as that.
Are you clear?
You DECLARE and SWEAR you vote against UMNO b….then we will forgive you.
If not….stop your BN propaganda technique.
One want to DISCUSS….one support the DISCUSSIONS.
And you…preach forgiveness.
wa…you three blind mice can really perform.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 06:29:08
Pretending to be blind mice….but actually ca see and kill.
Remember first James Bond movie…”Dr. NO”???
That’s what you…Ellese and Rhan are.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 07:30:50
Happy morning monsterball…
Actually I enjoy reading your grouses. Keep up the good work. No hard feelings.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 07:58:42
O yes one more thing monsterball… as it appears that you know what is best for the country in addition to your mind/character reading capability I think should ask LKS for a parliamentary ticket.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 08:03:31
I don’t carry balls and belong to no party as member.
You try to be nice to me…to cool me down?
Talk forgiveness..tolerance …happiness and harmony….at this finest hour to throw crooks out…after so many years of sufferings?
Are you planning to have 71 virgins in heaven…arranged by Mahathir?
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 08:06:38
First he compliment me..then ask me to carry Lim Kit Siang’s balls for a political position.
Is this the best you can do?
PS:..StreetFighter must be sleeping like a baby..or reading…leaving the donkey work for me to do.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 08:11:42
hi ..aiz….don’t think you can practice forgiveness with me..die and go to heaven/paradise…where that god forsaken place is….no one knows..as no one died came back and tell.
Where is hell…where is heaven…aiz?
You know? I sure do know..
“No hard feelings”…is the wishes of all UMNO b crooks too.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 08:17:06
hi azi….you know too well politicians do not talk with foul words.
Are you suggesting I go to DAP and teach all how to F UMNO b crooks?
Why not you suggest I join MCA and teach that sex maniacs how to see words and not his “TOOL” to get votes.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 08:29:16
I mean…”How to USE words and not his “TOOL” to get votes.
Talking about MCA sickening low class balls carrying…teaching Chinese how to be puppets like him..President.makes me sick.
Cannot believe he uttered vast majority Chinese are supporting MCA.
He has become like Mahathir…can easily forget what happen to MCA at 12th GE.
All are backdoor ministers… he brags…with his distinct fish mouth…with fish brain.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 08:31:20
FINAL comments to “Ellese”:
I do not want to waste my limited time debating
intellectually dishonest academicians (i.e. throwing in
deliberate distortions with rational arguments here and there
when commenting).
Or pro-regime academicians who want to engage in “debate”
but do not have the guts to reveal their identity.
How to have world class universities with academicians like these?
These are good examples of what the outspoken Frank called Malaysian
“kangkung professors” in the comments section of Din Merican’s blog
Ridhuan Tee may be a Malaysian fascist and extremist intellectual.
But at least he has the courage to proclaim his views without hiding his
identity behind pseudonyms. Learn to be courageous like Ridhuan Tee
if you want to earn respect (or replies!) from your intellectual-cum-political opponents.
P.S. Dr Hsu, sorry for having to waste some of your precious blog space by replying to characters like “Ellese”.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 12:44:34
Prof.Phua….You have done a great service to expose Ellese for what she is.
Lets give her the benefit of the doubt that Ellese is her real name and not set any conditions to make it difficult for her to come out and debate with you.
She has a big mouth and you have studied her character well…and her trend of talking too.
Approach her …head on…and challenge her for a debate…that the subject is beneficial to all Malaysians and not a battle of wits for intellectuals. to prove who is smarter…..where millions of ordinary voters find the subject..not important to them.
I have put out a dozen of subjects….all interesting for Malaysians to know the truth and not one she dare to debate with me…yet she said she has met many like me in the streets and won all arguments.
She is a gas bag…talking nonsense with text book knowledge.
Go….challenge her with no conditions…that she is what she is..and not a he or a rare..by-sexual creature.
No need to use third party references. You have said that many times.
Challenge her to debate with no conditions.-
She will run like a dog with tail curl in.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 12:52:02
It is like Prof. Aziz Bari that Malaysians admire and respect so much.
Lets hope there are more Professors are like him….fearless and walk the talks..for Malaysians.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 13:03:11
Dear Monsterball
Academicians engage in debate because we think that ideas (and interpretation of facts) are important and can make a great difference for the society we live in. We should not engage in debates to “win” or show off intellectually. But the basic rule is that academic debates should be intellectually honest. This is why the ruling regime and its apologists are so quick to try to shut up people like the courageous constitutional law professor from IIU. Ideas and the propagation of such ideas through academic freedom and free speech, are dangerous to the ruling regime because these ideas undermine their legitimacy. For example, the idea of the “Predatory State”.
I recommend a very good book to read called “Books That Changed the World”
by Robert B. Downs. There’s also another great book called “Men of Ideas” by
Lewis Coser on the major role of intellectuals in social change. Enjoy reading them!
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 13:20:28
No one has the right not to be offended. No one has the right to intimidate a reader/commentator that offends him/her either. Is it an act of cowardice if a reader/commentator did not response to obnoxious comments on him/her? Should we categorize the reader/commentator who gives an ornate response to a truly vile excrescence as a nutcase?
Yes I agree that we should have a change in the government. Yes I would vote for the opposition in this GE13. But I still see it as a gigantic humongous task for the opposition to rollover the present administration. The Wanita UMNO, Putri UMNO the exercise-book-generations, and the postal votes could still be a dependable force to deliver the fresh mandate for the current government to administer for another term. Not to mention about the phantom voters and the aliens who became a naturalized Malaysian by every single day.
Yes it is possible that I may fail. But, if I am beaten, let me lose in honour and with dignity. Thus, for me it would be heartening to see this fundamental understanding among readers/commentators that no matter what our political disagreements, we are all colleagues in a society who are more Malaysians rather than Indians, Chinese, Malays, Sarawakians, Sabahans, etc. Let us change ourselves first… then we change them.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 13:36:01
From Prof Noam Chomsky:
http://www.chomsky.info/articles/19670223.htm
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 13:46:40
And from Prof Noam Chomsky again (40 years later!)
http://www.bostonreview.net/BR36.5/noam_chomsky_responsibility_of_intellectuals_redux.php
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 14:02:11
After the 13th GE….we all can unite and behave like cultured Malaysians.
Tell that to Teoh Beng Hock’s parents and sister and Kugan’s parents
too.
This is not the time to practice Human Rights…where individual rights are suppressed….controlled….shut off for decades.
It is nice to read so many are voting for change.
The hour is near and this is a war between a corrupted government and People Power.
People Power are not so well educated and have been living in silence ..living in fear and secretly suffering for decades….until the sign of hopes are seen at 12th GE.
Talk is cheap. Debate is wasting time at the hour of reckoning.
Do that after 13th GE.
The enemies are still governing and daily trying to fool Malaysians.
What will all smart Malaysians do…when the crooks find more and more nonsense to upset the 13th GE scenario?…start again…to each his own…or migrate?
If you want others to change and vote for change..it is not enough you are doing it.
You got to catch pro BN propagandists by the tails and challenge them with no diplomacy….for the will always show how cultured and well mannered they are…before starting their propaganda work.
Some are born to fight for other.
Some need to read and acquire knowledge to decide.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 14:48:48
I don’t read much Chomsky on intellectual, I do read some of his work on “manufacturing consent”, but here in Malaysia, the ‘consent’ do not require much manufacturing as our constitution give the impression that we, the people already consent some of it value to a certain extent, don’t you people think this is the tough and tricky part?
We can choose not to listen, or debate, or engage commentators like Ellese, that is our choice and no one can force us, and I hope the ‘we’ here should consist of 60% or above of the legitimate voters, that by shouting and writing BN this and BN that, for and against, we will comfortably win the election with all problem and corruption issue solved.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 15:17:05
We will shout at every opportunity with no fear…exposing BN CORRUPTIONS and their dirty race and religion politics.
Confucius said reading…be knowledgeable is last criteria towards being successful in life.
It’s destiny …luck…where the winds guide you…and you help the poor and needy as much as possible.
Be generous and feel for others deeply and sincerely.
Do all that…you will really be fearless.
Otherwise…it will be like Rhan…talk alot of hollow words….bragging…luring and try luck to promote BN without anyone knowing that.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 15:20:00
Imagine one who has no manners…confirmed braggart ..putting out wise words….teaching others…HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 15:58:12
Rhan,
Please allow me to take a shot to summarize Chomsky’s two essays on intellectual in three short paragraphs:
Intellectuals must possess the integrity and should use their status, influence, and authority to fulfill their public responsibility to advance democracy and justice.
However, they face two temptations. Firstly, is the temptation of unjustified confidence in one’s own judgment. Many intellectuals regard themselves as experts and others should obey their pronouncements instead of being conscious of their own fallibility when offering their ideas and analysis to the public. The second temptation is professional status, wealth, influence, and authority. Their intellectual integrity should resist the temptation to distort or censor their judgments in order to achieve status or to please the authority.
Thus, it is the duty of the citizens to check and criticize the public responsibility of intellectuals in order to construct a world that is more just and democratic.
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Nov 08, 2011 @ 16:46:48
Thanks Sally, my understanding of intellectual is no different with Chomsky though i am far from being an intellectual, the two temptation is worthy of note but that apply to politician and common man as well.
The interesting part is the last paragraph “Thus, it is the duty of the citizens to check and criticize the public responsibility of intellectuals in order to construct a world that is more just and democratic.” How a citizen or common man able to check and criticize intellectual in an objective manner? Unless we subscribe to what Mao did during cultural revolution, but we also know well most of the readers here believe in LKY way, the elite shall lead the common man.
Chomsky is a dissent voice in America politics, does being dissent an indication of wisdom? i hope so. Is democracy the solution? Again i hope so.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 06:30:45
Phua you are really comical. Now accusing me of intellectual honesty. Who was the first one who argued by categorising people as propagandist. You.
Who were the one who refuse to refer to IAEA report which is credible by any international standard. You. Why? Because you said I didn’t use my real name. You said as an academic I must use my real name. But ive already told you I’m not an academician. So by right you should reply than falsely accusing me as an academician.
Now tell me who is intellectually dishonest here? Claiming other professor kangkung. Would not a professor who call for a ban of a contrarion view because he refuse or unable to refute argument worse than kangkung? Perhaps prof kangkung busuk.
What’s worse he claims he argues intellectually but a number of times quoted one sided bias partisan anecdotal first person write telling people it’s a good write like one from Malaysian chronicle. He knows this cannot stand academic rigour but mask to others as a good article. Why is this not propagandist i dont know? But you are quick to taint other arguments as propagandist. Now who is intellectually dishonest? It’s you my dear ‘professor’.
PS you still want to categorize people rather than the points. So long as you do this I will persist employing the same method in categorizing you. You should have backed down and apologize for this method. But if you want to play this game I will continue to entertain you. It’s sad coz some of your referral was quite good. I think it can be a healthy dialectic discourse. You choose prof which method between a puerile discourse were having or a mature one.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 08:54:22
Dear Ellese
OK, since you say you are not an academician, I apologise for
saying that you are an intellectually dishonest academician.
But looking at the way you debate, I will not waste my time debating with you.
Have a good day.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 09:04:58
Dear Sally and Rhan
1. Noam Chomsky is a very courageous intellectual because he is an American Jew who dares to criticise Israel and America’s almost unquestioning support of Israeli foreign policy.
He is also a severe critic of US imperialism and American hypocrisy (i.e. supporting
right-wing regimes in Third World countries while proclaiming itself as the leader of the “Free World” and promoting democracy abroad)
For that, the “Israel lobby” in the US really hates his guts.
The prime example being AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee)
2. Another person worth reading on the role of intellectuals in society is the
Italian Marxist thinker Antonio Gramsci.
By the way, Prof Chomsky’s political ideology is “anarchism”
Cheers !
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 09:58:10
Correct…correct …correct….professor kangkung…professor kangkung busuk.
Only mission is to keep this blog alive and talk academic stuffs…no balls to debate Ellese and make all sorts of lame excuses.
Me…I will debate/argue with Ellese anytime.
I gave her a list of subjects…I am still waiting.
She has a big mouth talking cock all the time..with Rhan fanning her backside…making her comfortable to keep talking.
For that…our professor’s brain is not equipped to handle Ellese.
That’s OK…but don’t say….’i will not waste my time debating with you” to Ellese.
Should say…”Your kind Monsterball is best qualified to debate with you”
Be humble…be truthful.
YIP!!…..Be the first to comment and get the ball rolling is what Prof is good at.
Talk history and historians are text books stuffs.
This blog have so many characters.
Few want it to be a University Forum showing how smart they are.
See…Phua is talking to Rhan and Sally…what stuffs??
Is that subject important to Malaysians to decide who to vote for?
Few like Ellese take the advantage and put out nonsensical stuffs…,making it a Fish & Chips Forum.
Me…I will make it FOR or AGAINST Forum.
Rhan wants it a forum for braggarts.
Dr.Hsu can take some Penadol….who cares..he asked for it.
He spent too much time reading and laughing behind the certain….when no patients are around.
Bye bye…this blog is wasting my time.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 10:24:30
Dear Prof. Phua,
From my reading and training, glorification of Marxist faith and ideological obsession of anarchism can make one impermeable to contrary facts or rational interest which may possibly lead to the indoctrination of a racist nation, mafia economy, and incitement of riots/revolution.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 10:54:45
Hi Sally and Monsterball
Karl Marx is considered a major thinker in the field of sociological theory
Anarchism is not as simple as its common stereotyped image of bomb throwers and
streetfighters trashing shop windows in anti-globalisation demonstrations.
Many of the ideas of Marx and Kropotkin are still relevant in the 21st century.
(By the way, I am not a Marxist or an anarchist. I am a non-Marxist social democrat
in political orientation and a post-Keynesian in economic inclination)
Monsterball: You can call me whatever names you like.
I have been called “racist” by a Lynas public relations person (he/she actually means
“xenophobic”), “not qualified to comment” etc by pro-regime types. Does not bother me at all. “No balls” is a new name thrown at me. 🙂
You are welcome to debate with this Ellese character if you like, Monsterball.
I try to stay civil and avoid calling people names in blog comments. But I will make an exception here and say I think this Ellese person seems to have some sort of “personality disorder”. Read up on the various kinds of personality disorder, it can be quite enlightening. Why waste your time engaging in debate with such people?
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 11:07:39
Time for a bit of humour.
Life is more than politics and political debates 🙂
http://www.commondreams.org/further/2011/11/08-4
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 11:16:18
I was reading something about Steve Jobs written by a guy who used to work for him in Apple. Jobs talked about organisation and bozo explosion. And the theory supports the kind of things we see happening, especially in govt and govt linked institutions.
Job’s theory was A people hire A people. B people hire C people. C people hire D people. And very you have a bozo explosion. Bozo being American slang for stupid.
The AG reports did indicate a bozo explosion in the civil service.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 11:48:41
Sally, i don’t think many would want to indulge in “glorification”, most prefer a balance after the end of history not really end yet.
Phua, i notice your referral and sources are mostly western, perhaps you should read something eastern (maybe you are, i don’t know). Josh Hong is one of the most rational young (or now not that young anymore?) writer on political issue, but his recent piece talk too much about the west as pointer which i think is kind of ‘glorification’, i hope Malaysian intellectual can be more diversity and open minded in your/their approach, like what Hsu did.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 11:54:24
Prof. Phua / Rhan
Take 5 – Coffee Break
http://www.flickspire.com/m/SimpleTruths/LifeIsLikeCoffee?id=%25%25UNIQUE_ID%25%25&cm_mmc=CheetahMail-_-FR-_-10.28.11-_COFFEEmovie&utm_source=CheetahMail&utm_campaign=COFFEEmovie
Thanks to masterwordsmith-unplugged
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 11:55:04
Hi Rhan
Thanks for your comment.
Unfortunately, being “Malaysian First and Chinese Second”, I cannot read Chinese.
So, I have to read material written in Chinese in translation.
I did not pay enough attention in school to Mandarin POL class (for the younger blog readers, POL = People’s Own Language) in primary school and lower secondary school.
This I regret. Especially when I spent 3 months in Japan and could only read a handful of
kanji characters.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 11:57:43
Sorry, POL should be Pupil’s Own Language.
klm: Good article on Steve Jobs
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2011/11/14/111114fa_fact_gladwell?currentPage=all
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 12:07:39
Hi Sally
Thanks for the coffee !
Two things came into my mind watching the coffee video:
1. One kind of “cup” does add a lot to the flavour of the coffee i.e.
the musang that eats the coffee bean and then passes it out in its faeces.
Resulting in the most expensive (and best-tasting) coffee bean in the world, so I’m told !
2. Jeremy Bentham’s question: “Is it better to be a pig satisfied or Socrates dissatisfied?”
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 12:17:39
Prof Phua. I agree. Good article on Jobs. Would you like to comment on the bozo explosion bit? Like to hear your academic perspective. 🙂
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 12:35:28
“Price do not matter to Bernas”
Price does matter, klm, but quality do not matter, i am in this industry for a number of years, i know how they operate, the sole license to import means Bernas will buy the cheapest and inferior quality fragrant rice and sell it to trader at exorbitant level because no competition, while Singapore / HK have to to compete to buy the best quality rice for consumer that want it. That is why you can’t have good quality imported rice in Malaysia regardless of brand besides the smuggle one. I anytime take local rice.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 12:54:02
Hi klm
1. Malaysia supposedly has one of the highest ratios of civil servants to the total population. In other words, a bloated civil service.
My take is that the BN govt is on the horns of a dilemma i.e. the NEP’s
affirmative action programmes has increased the numbers of Bumiputera with diplomas or university degrees. Unemployed or underemployed people with such credentials are potentially dangerous to the regime in power. (From history, we know that the leaders of the anti-colonial movements in Asia and Africa were well-educated natives who were barred from good jobs because they were non-whites) So the govt has to employ more and more of these people. The govt also feels that the civil servants will support them politically.
But this costs more and more money over time. So, if money is running out (or if orgs such as the IMF come in and demands austerity progs resulting in cutbacks in the number of civil servants), then what to do??
2. Some theories of public administration (and behaviour of bureaucrats) argue that the increase in civil servants is due to the tendency of “empire building” i.e.
bureaucrats gain more power by increasing the size of their budgets and number of staff uder them. You could say that if you want to hire as many people as quickly as possible, then you are more likley to get some bozos!
The “public choice” economic theorists also argue that the public sector bureaucracies grow because political parties compete for votes by promising to
introduce more and more public welfare programmes during their election campaigns. So, after they win, they have to keep at least some of their electoral promises.
(I don’t necessarily agree with the “public choice” economists and political scientists. The most famous are Mancur Olson and James Buchanan, a Nobel laureate)
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 13:12:12
There’s also the economist William Niskanen, the father of the
theory of “budget-maximising” bureaucrats.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 14:38:14
Aiyah..kangkung Prof….no balls mean no balls la.
Why are you treating others like idiots?
First you challenge Ellese for a debate with your terms and conditions.
Now you apologized to her….that your terms and condition were not valid.
I repeat….you DID challenge her!!
Why back out now with more cock and bull reasons?
Sick of your low class twisting and insulting the intelligence of freedom fighters.
Don’t bother to reply.
I got better things to do. ..than talking to text book idiots like you.
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 19:29:47
Hello Monsterball
You can call me a “textbook idiot” and “kangkung Prof” or whatever name you like.
I prefer to act like a gentleman (and apologise when I am wrong).
So I apologise to Ellese when he/she informs me he/she is not an academician.
But I will still not engage in debate with people who are intellectually dishonest
(even if they are not academicians).
As for you, I think you are one of those who enjoy instigating people to fight each other in “flame wars”.
I’m not taking the bait, my friend.
So there …. !
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Nov 09, 2011 @ 19:53:56
Does all debates need honest intellects??
What kind of crab excuse is that?
And now..I am accused ..an instigator.
hi…Phua..I just pointed out you did challenged her for a debate.
Your apology should clear your mind ready to debate.
Don’t want to do it….OK…but please stop making all sorts of excuses.
What kind of bait are you worth fishing for?
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 07:38:17
One FINAL comment to you, Monsterball.
Please do not put words in other people’s mouth.
I did not challenge Ellese to a debate.
It is actually he/she who wants to debate with me.
But looking at his/her comments (which I think are intellectually dishonest,
of the Rocky Bru kind i.e. outright lies about Lim Guan Eng and the Penang administration mixed with rational arguments), I conclude that debating with this person is a waste of my time. You understand my point of view now?
You want to debate with Ellese, but he/she does not want to debate with you.
So you try to get me to debate with Ellese, but I decline (for the reasons given above).
So you resort to insults, name-calling and online temper tantrums.
You still have not learned that not everything is going to go your way in this world ?? Or are you in a state of prolonged adolescence?
Suggestion: please seek your online “menage a trois” with someone else (or somewhere else).
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 08:27:21
phua, don’t engage that retard, the bastard derive pleasure from pain and humiliation, unless your major is sadomasochism. so leave the dirty job to people like me n cili, our specialised is spanking.
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 08:46:24
Hi Rhan
Good advice (your first part of the sentence). I’ll take it. 🙂
Otherwise, Dr Hsu’s excellent blog will just be full of
people “flaming” each other. Instead of discussing serious issues of the day.
Cheers and have a good day. No spanking (online or otherwise) please !
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 10:03:35
Rhan the most disgusted good for nothing pampered .braggart..no manners commentator calls me retarded …..to defend Phua.
Now he claims he specialized in spanking…….an additional talent to his well known arm chair critic title.
He must be very happy… I am confronting Phua.
To say what you don’t mean and don’t mean what you say…..has brought Phua and Rhan as buddies…with common personalities and interest.
Imagine pro BN catching fish.
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 10:08:43
Phua….go ahead…advertise and insult me ….to keep on denying.
That’s your patten to Ellese too.
I have said enough to expose you bragging and not a man of your words.
Enjoy Rhan…good advises.
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 10:21:53
“leave dirty the to people like me n cili”….said Rhan..
Until doomsday…his dirty job cannot be accomplished.
This clown sure know how to brag….HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 10:25:13
Typing error on Rhan’s quotation.
It is…”leave the dirty job to people like me n cili”
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 10:37:49
No …Phua..I don’t understand your point of view.
You can always defend Lim Guan Eng and expose lies wherever you find them.
You treat Ellese like that sickening double headed snake Rockybru….correct..but to leave her alone and mind your own business is incorrect.
Both are working for BN companies….and carrying BN balls as much as they can.
After all…you are so well educated and Freedom Fighters look forward to guys like you…to battle with the smart guys.
I say you broke your promise to debate with Ellese out of no balls to do it….and disappointing so many with you turnabout personality.
Don’t mixed up with anger and instigating.
Remember…..Rhan is pro BN.
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 10:46:10
Prof Phua,
Just ignore anyone you don’t feel like answering. It takes not only a gentleman but a big man to apologise when he inadvertently made a mistake ( we as human err all the time).
Your views are very much treasured and please continue your inputs.
In blogosphere, we get all sorts of people, just as in real life , there are hundred types of people, despite all eating the same type of rice.
Some are very partisan, some are paid to be partisan ( this category can change their stand when their paymasters change). Many are genuine patriots wanting nothing but good for Malaysia–I believe this group is the biggest category in my blog.
I did minimal censoring because I subscribe to freedom of speech as long as it does not go overboard.. But once there is personal attack and disruption of thoughts happen, I would try to do something.. the only problem is I am quite a busy person, daytime is almost fully involved in seeing patients and doing certain research ad writing if time permits, and after work, I need to attend to certain personal stuff and meetings and so on, so it is almost impossible for me to monitor comments all the time..
I apologise to you for all these inadequacy..
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 10:46:32
Elese is here. Rocky is not here.
If you can identify who they are…then you know Ellese needs to be confronted face to face…WHICH YOU DID!!…and now change your mind and keep defending yourself..by labeling me…this and that…for very selfish reasons.
I guess you think ….being a professor makes your brain better that others?
I have seen plenty nutty professors too ….in real life.
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 10:51:36
If Doc thinks so highly about Phua…then I apologize to the professor.
All the great minds must be right.
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 11:18:08
Phua,don’t leave any job to Rhan,his brain is unbalanced,he simply can’t carry any job decently much less intellectually.Don’t instigate him or he’ll loose his mind and spank his own backside.I hope you could stand tall and take on Ellese as she/he is deemed highly intellectual as academician as you previously thought so.Do not run away from main issues concerning nation just by giving excuses.Do not let her/him to brainwash young voters by allowing she/he to propagate BN’s propaganda.
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 12:43:59
Thanks for all your different views.
I hear you all.
I view my primary social duty – as a concerned academician – to be passing on important ideas to members of the Malaysian public who care about the mess our country is in. (The other primary social duty is to do something about it i.e. working with
progressive political parties and NGOs to promote positive social change, as a thinker and strategist. As mentioned earlier, I am glad that my idea of mobilising Overseas Malaysian to help bring about change has been adopted by our reformists)
Here’s a good article to read and ponder over:
http://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/books/hisham-matar-on-libyas-awakening?pageCount=0
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 14:07:52
Just last month
Ah Pek so pitifully said this
GOOD BYE!!……for few days…..weeks……..months……don’t know.
But I do feel Doc treated me badly…and makes all sorts of cock and bull reasons.
Now, he is back shitting in this great forum
He really has no shame
You better walk in the street, dressed up like a begger
Maybe people will pity you
For giving up your millions
In this blog, no one take a damn on you
Continue condemning your master, the Old Horse
No one care
AP makan cili, Old Horse rasa pedas
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 14:36:17
Waa..cilipadi,nice to have you back mumbling mumbling.We so missed your ‘cili nama cili,cili sendiri rasa pedas’ kind of amusement.Hahahahahahahaha.
By the way,have you been quietly registered as a voter?My Malay friend(Pas) told me so.If not ask help from Ellese.
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 14:44:51
why talk about last month, even in this thread the retard murmur “Bye bye…this blog is wasting my time.” and follow with another 10 trash (of course must include his ‘son’).
🙂
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 15:10:36
Hi Rhan,how’s your backside?You spanked it real hard?Or you need my favour to give it a good kick?Kicking is my specialised.Let me know ya.
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 17:08:57
Few days it was….as promised…unless you have pea brains that don’t understand the bye bye.. was kept as promised.
Cili..famous sentence…”no one care a damn on you”….yet this cili planter cares and watch every step I make.
With one Malay friend cannot vote…a busybody…planting cili like planting grass….no skills needed….he thinks he is so smart.
I wonder does he knows how many types of cili there is.
I wonder does his one Malay friend…”Big Dog” teaches him anything about cilipadi.
StreetFighter can put him and Rhan in his pockets.
Rhan??…what can one say that has not been said about this arm chair critic…for so many times.
Yes…dummy…this blog is wasting my time…and I guess you misses me… for spanking by StreetFighter not enough. He wants more…and StreetFighter is planning to kick his backside…if he does not shut his mouth.
So am I ready for the them.
Dynamic Duo Vs Dumb & Ass.
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Nov 10, 2011 @ 20:17:05
ALL QUIET AGAIN
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Nov 11, 2011 @ 01:33:04
This monster and/or streetfighter has a lot in common. They used rouge instead of rogue and loose instead of lose. Could it be similar minds think alike!
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Nov 11, 2011 @ 05:52:34
Dear Doc,
Even though phua has apologized he kept casting aspersion on my character. Please allow me to defend. I will not attack others character.
I wish to state that my write is supportable and justified. If I had made a mistake I will apologize which I have done before. But if you take through I will quote my reference and justification. I believe it would stand any academic rigor.
I write mainly from the top of my head based on what I read observe and analyse. I have met various types of politicians of all divides and have a skewed version of them. Unlike most people, I judge them by what they do than what they say. Words are cheap to them.
If you had taken through my write, like at some other blogs, I will defend my position and put down my argument.
Many a times I write to show that no one has a monopoly of truth. My training show that in every issue there are two sides to a coin. There are multifacet points of view in any issue. And we should strive for what is right, consistent and in consonant with our values. We must know what we want out of an issue and find a balance in the competing interest. What I see is that 99% of write and comment decide right and wrong based on whether it benefits the party they support. This is wrong.
I take affront to those who cast aspersion on my character in particular when they fail to argue it out. Calling me a liar and dishonest is downright unwarranted uncalled for and unfair. It’s my honour and integrity that I will defend. If my statement is incorrect tell me where. But it is highly improper and deceitful to cast wide net of aspersion on my character without telling me where I had erred or so call lied. I have been careful to choose my source. I’ve read the IAEA report. Similarly the AG report. I quote pr leaders stand from pro pr news agency. Thus if doubtful anyone is more than welcome to question me.
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Nov 11, 2011 @ 10:04:12
Observant,you’re another pea brain who can’t differentiate two different style of character writing.You should change your nick to ignorant.Or you’re another instigator to start the flame war?Good try from you but try harder next time.
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Nov 11, 2011 @ 11:18:41
As long as Ellese cannot differentiate racists parties against non racists parties…her mind is set…vote for continuity…don’t vote for change…no differences.
As long as Ellese keep ignoring the massive corruptions…double standards applied…murders and tons of accusations …she is clearly a BN propagandist…and will never change.
I wonder does she dare to debate…”Is Mahathir a Saint or a Villain?”
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Nov 11, 2011 @ 11:38:38
More knowledge…more reading.. is not a passport to success or makes one better than an ordinary person who read less..and have practical experiences all his life.
Najib walks to meet Malaysians does not mean that pampered child…. already know Malaysians truthfully.
All are for show…talking to school children….carry babies.
All Malaysians know that now…except Ellese.
She said she reads and mixes with all politicians.
That means nothing..if she always stay untruthful…cunning and stubborn.
Get rid of that ..and debate on subject where People Power are most interested…..like money….food…shelters…essentials…schools…..roads…etc.. etc etc.
Make the a People Forum….not a Lecturing Forum.
Another subject I like to debate with Ellese is…”Why Malaysians must vote for change”
I put it out…Ellese is to rebut…..and that’s a debate.
These are subjects Malaysians want to know…not this or that report…from outside. We talk about out country needs and wants..so simple. Why confuse Malaysians with unimportant issues to Malaysians?
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Nov 11, 2011 @ 11:43:19
The problem is Phua is right about Ellese …yet wrong to avoid her.
And now Ellese is making an issue of it again.
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Nov 11, 2011 @ 17:50:22
A cracko also thinks he is most truthful too.
But a paid trouble causer will say anything to find trouble.
hahaahahahaha….mumbler accused another mumbling….just like Mahathir.
The second show has started?
Let StreetFighter handle him.
I will ignore …..read comments behave sooooooo “AP”….”Anak Pahlawan”
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Nov 11, 2011 @ 18:47:05
a few comments that aagin put down others are deleted from 3.53pm onwards
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Nov 14, 2011 @ 15:12:15
National feedlot scheme…., one cow cost more than RM14,000?? spending RM130 million for less than 9,000 cows
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Nov 14, 2011 @ 15:14:09
claim 8,000 + cows, actually only less than 4,500 cows, so each cow RM28,000??
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