Chinese must choose BN or...

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak today reminded our Chinese friends to either choose Barisan Nasional or lose the possibility of not being represented in the government.

Nope! It was not a threat (read here). It was a friendly reminder. As Malaysians, we always opt for the better choice when it comes to social cooperation. In fact, we have sticked together since our Independence.

So, why must there be changes when our predecessors had agreed to such an understanding? What happened in Sarawak state poll and 2008 general election (where the Malays too voted for the Opposition) should come as a reminder that chauvinist politics will only bring down the whole system.

Our nation should be kept as it is - vibrant and progressing. Our people, irrespective of religion, race and culture must be able to work hand in hand and observe mutual respect like what the founding fathers of Malaysia had worked on.

The country is not about the Malays anymore. It needs the Chinese, Indians, Dayaks, Ibans and other races to cohesively develop the nation for the benefit of all. We need each and every race to be represented in the government, at the Parliament and State Assemblies.

So, why must we opt for a new government when the ongoing one has proven its ability to speak for every sector of the community? What are learning from Selangor, Kedah, Penang and Kelantan?

Unless you prefer to remain Chinese rather than 'Malaysians!'

PM/DPM in 'Program Turun Padang' T'ganu

Prime Minister Najib and deputy Muhyiddin will be in Terengganu Saturday, meeting Umno state officials and attending mass gathering with the rakyat. Some ministers will join them, including Home Minister Hishammuddin and Defense' Zahid.

Many would question the motive for such a big trip to the eastern state. Some even suggested that it will be an interlude to the next national poll, which is to be expected later this year of latest by mid 2012.

Whatever the perceptions are, Terengganu needs special attention, especially this time around. Some problems plaguing the state's Umno has been 'swept under the carpet' and this has led to members' displeasure.

I am worried with reports and indications about the possibility of Terengganu coming under the Oppositon again in the next general election. The oil-rich state may look stable on the surface but some ugly episodes which saw Umno and BN supporter going for a split after 2008 polls, need special attention from the leaders.

As Sarawak state election on April 16 denounced BN campaign mechanism which saw DAP and PKR added eight more state seats, both Federal and State governments cannot deny the fact that no matter how much we 'attack' DAP and Anwar Ibrahim, the voters still got the final say.

Perhaps something needs to be rewritten. In Terengganu, captivating the mindset of the majority Malays should emphasis more on their local needs rather that offering them national political sentiments. More bridging can be done to help the rural folks uplift their standard of living. To them, bread and butter is the main issue, and not Anwar Ibrahim.

Terengganu MB Ahmad Said, on the other hand, should also 'turun padang' and not just listening or reading reports fed by Umno division heads. Some of them are good liars, elsewhere too.

However, the problem with top leadership is, some refuse to attend to 'bad and unpleasant' news as it will to their existing problems. In previous elections, this attitude saw some 'wakil rakyat' lost their seats.

So, Terengganu is undoubtedly the best platform for the PTP (Program Turun Padang). Attend to Umno first before going back to BN drawboard.

MDG: Non-Malay Bumiputras still lagging

Too much for urban developments. While the Malays are finding it more difficult to acquire properties in townships, more Bumiputras especially in Sabah and Sarawak are still living in poverty.

I think the government has to shift more focus to developing the rural areas. The common question nowadays is, are the Malays affordable enough to buy at least a retail outlet in mega projects namely the NCER, ECER, Iskandar Johor and Sabah and Sarawak Development Corridors?

Who will benefit most from it? The Malays? The kampung folks?

Our affirmative action plan looks very promising on the surface but the ugly facts are well-hidden beneath it.

While Malay poverty share falls, other Bumiputras are still lagging, according to a report by the United Nations 2010 Millennium Development Goal (MDG) released Thursday. Despite making up only 11 per cent of the population, non-Malay Bumiputeras now make up about half of all underprivileged households.

Non-Malay Bumiputeras - most of whom are from Sabah and Sarawak, and who are Barisan Nasional's (BN) vote bank - making up about 50 per cent of all poor households in the country as compared with about 20 per cent in 1989.

The proportion of poor made up by Malay households, meanwhile, dropped from over 60 per cent in 1989 to about 40 per cent in 2009.

The share of Chinese and Indian households remained relatively stable during the same period, at less than 10 per cent.

The report also found that Sabah had the highest poverty rate in the country at 19.7 per cent.

The UN (MDG) comprises eight global, time-bound development goals, with targets to be achieved by 2015.

Kamal Malhotra, the United Nations Resident Co-ordinator for Malaysia, said in the report that while the country has achieved the aggregate MDG objective of halving poverty — which fell from 17 per cent in 1990 to eight per cent in 2000, and below four per cent in 2009 — rural Sabah was not on track to achieve the poverty MDG by 2015.

The MDG report found that 3.5 per cent of households are vulnerable, meaning that they have incomes 25 per cent or less above the poverty line.

Non-Malay Bumiputera were found to be the most vulnerable, followed by Chinese, Malay, Indian and other races.

Egyptians don't recognise Kem David anymore

Now that Hosni Mubarak is gone, most Egyptians would like to void the Kem David Accords signed in 1979. A recent US polls show that more than half of them also felt Israel Embassy should leave their soil.

However, the research by the US Pew Research Center indicates 36 per cent of Egyptians believe the peace treaty with Israel should remain in effect.

A whopping two thirds of Egyptians are happy with the country's progress following the ouster of longtime president Hosni Mubarak, the poll says. The results were based on interviews with thousands of Egyptians between March 24 and April 7.

The poll also marks a ten per cent hike in support for democracy since a similar survey was taken last year.

About 88 per cent said that the Egyptian army, the recipient of power after the former regime's downfall, has had a positive impact in the country's functioning.

But there was mixed opinion about police, as 61 per cent said they believe that police have had a negative impact regarding legislation. Around 60 per cent said they believe that law should be based on the Quran.

The revolution which overthrew Mubarak apparently did not curb the country's negative view of the United States. The poll says that 70 per cent of Egyptians believe Washington played a negative role or had no role at all during the country's political turnover.

Barack Obama has also maintained a negative image, as 64 per cent said they don't trust him, and 52 per cent were disappointed in how he has dealt with Arab revolutions sweeping the Mideast.

Why not 'Malaysia Bersatu' against DAP?

Who says Melayu should not 'bersatu'. Nothing's wrong with Melayu Bersatu as suggested by some critics, including few fellow bloggers in support of Utusan's deputy chief editor Zaini Hassan.

I personally would like to see my race be consolidated for good reasons - to uplift their economy, strengthening their political position and enhance their ability to compete healthily with others in all disciplines.

A united Malays would augur well in upholding their rights under the Constitution. But what will become of Umno should its merges with Pas and other Malay-based organisations. Will they agree to disband their respective movements and come under Umno or a new party? Going by the latter, it will lead to the demise of Umno.

It is good to go back to the spirit of 1946 when Umno was founded to oppose the Malayan Union proposed by the British Colonial Government. But then, the immigrants from China, India and other countries were not yet the citizens of the country. However, they are now.

The Malaysian Chinese and Indians are our citizens. They were born, brought up, studied and bred, and will die here. I dont know about any Malays who chose to die abroad apart from the Holy Land.

We have a bad history of racial turmoil when Malay chauvinists incited it in 1969. Everybody who had gone through it are those (witnesses and survivors who are still alive) who really understand the true meaning of social disharmony from the ugly episode. Undoubtedly, some of them are not.

There are Malays and Chinese who like playing heroes to their own community. The easy-going Malays of pre-Independence has long gone, and now comes a new generation trying to make a big turn back into the Malayan Union era, fighting for justice and rights.

The Chinese and Indians of pre-Independence and post-World War II were grateful people until some of them fought alongside the Koumintang and Communist Party of Malaya to ousted the British and take over the administration of Malaya. Yes, it is true that Chin Peng and Rashid Mydin were among invited guests to watch the Victory Parade in London after the Japanese surrendered in 1945 but when they went back to the jungle after Independence, they were no more 'heroes' (as described by some quarters).

Now, what is wrong with a united Chinese or a united Indians? Nothing is wrong if Umno and Pas are to merge as they used to be together before going separate ways. But is there anything wrong for MCA to merge with its 'once a splinter group' Gerakan and PAP-clone DAP?

To me, yes and no. Yes to MCA-Gerakan merger but no to MCA-Gerakan-DAP. Why? The Malays are represented only in Umno and Pas. PKR is not a Malay party, it is multi-races. But still, is it wrong to have a multi-races party?

DAP cannot become a part of China Bersatu. MCA and Gerakan (there are few Malays with it) adopt a more liberal political approach in the context of recognising the rights and interest of the Malays. Similarly, Umno too upholds the rights of the non-Malays in the country.

DAP is not. DAP plans to rule the country and turn it into another Singapore, just like PAP's Lee Kuan Yew. Two years within Malaysia in 1963-65, LKY and his Singaporean Chinese had plans to take over Malaysia' administration from the Perikatan (now Barisan Nasional) multi-racial pact.

Seeing the danger, Tunku Abdul Rahman asked LKY to take his men back to Singapore and set them 'free' on Sept 16, 1965, on LKY's birthday. Many Malays still accused Tunku of being so soft and shortsighted for letting go of the Republic but in fact it was a right and proper move at that time. Had he not taken such an action, Malaysia and Singapore would see racial bloodshed.

DAP doesnt like the Malays and Barisan Nasional. They dont consider the Malays as a part of their political manifesto. They treat the Malays just like how the British had during their colonialisation - not as second class citizen but third or fourth. They look down at the Malays as how PAP looks down at the Singaporean Malays.

So, it is the DAP that Malaysian peace-loving Malays, Chinese, Indians and other races should go against. It is the DAP that we must get rid off for being so Chinese-chauvinistic. But the proposed Melayu Bersatu has no intention of taking away what the non-Malays have achieved. Unless this is their main agenda, I think it will plunge the country into chaos.

I called up a Minister earlier yesterday and talked about it for 20 minutes. Instead of Melayu Bersatu, Cina Bersatu and India Bersatu, 'why not we form a Malaysia Bersatu' to run down DAP?

1Melayu, 1Chinese and 1Indian Malaysia!

Two rallies are planned at 3pm today to support Utusan and Perkasa over their '1Melayu, 1Bumi' slogan. One at Utusan office in Ipoh and the other at MCA HQ in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur.

The slogan drew first blood from MCA and DAP, two Chinese-based of 'different ideology' parties. Malay chauvinism, it seems, is also fast backfiring. Former PM Tun Dr Mahathir said on Saturday the label itself would be a disaster to the nation.

Now, who is right or wrong doesnt matter, not just yet. But the Malay-Chinese confrontation is bringing us back to the era of mid 1940s when our British Colonial master introduced the Malayan Union that could have turned the Malays as beggars in their own homeland.

British idea to award immigrants from China and India with equal citizenship had, for the first time saw the Malays to defy 'politics were the prerogative rights of the royal families' mentality they held for centuries, and launched a massive anti-Malayan Union campaigns throughout the country.

The Malays were the destitute lot then. The Malay Rulers also were part to blame for 'selling' their respective States as British Protectorates. But when the Japanese came, the British abandoned Malaya.

The Malays were doing the right thing then in protecting their legitimate rights as owners of Tanah Melayu. The British, in taking up the Malays for granted, brought in people from China and India to work in their tin mines and rubber estates. The Malays were known to be less interested in such economic activities, except for planting paddy and as fishermen.

These immigrants helped the Malayan economy grow. Their contribution is well-recognised, even by the Malays. And when they were given equal citizenship under the administration of Malayan Union, Malay discontentment was minimal except for those in Umno.

But more than 50 years after Independence, the Malay-Chinese issue flares again. Why are they against each other when the Malays in Umno and Chinese in MCA are buddies in the ruling Barisan Nasional?

Are the Malays to blame for their 'still lagging' position in this country as compared to the Chinese, and perhaps the Indians too? And is it because of the much reduced Chinese votes for BN in previous by-elections and the recently concluded Sarawak state election?

Many said the Chinese will never change since they already have almost everything in the country except political control of the government. But does Umno really dictates Putrajaya? And how are we going to face the next national poll should this time-bomb is not defused by now?

The problems with modern Malaysians now is their thickening prejudice among each other. The post-Independence harmony is fast diminishing. Those were the days when the three major communities helped each other in many ways and aspects. They understood each other well enough.

However, the non-Malays began to grow pessimism over the government's affirmative plan in the 1970s meant to assist the Malays boost their economic standing in a thriving multi-racial nation. They, the non-Malays went to the extent of accusing the indigenous Malays of wanting to rob them of their wealth and high standard of living.

Had the '1Melayu, 1Bumi' slogan was chanted during the Malayan Union and before the immigrants were made citizens of Malaysia, they could have fared better than Umno. However under 1Malaysia concept, we need to admit the fact that we are now one. But again, disparity gap claims its tolls in domestic politics.

Racial tolerant too is making ways to race chauvinism. But are blaming MCA for tailoring to DAP's 'Chinese chauvinism' when Umno and Pas are agreeing to talks on a solidarity government? Are we blaming the Indians as well when Hindraf was formed to the likes of Perkasa and few Chinese-for-Chinese organisations?

Now, what will be the future of the country if a Malay-for-Malay, Chinese-for-Chinese and Indian-for-India politics thrive?

We are so fond of blasting the issue out of context. Had we resorted to the post-Independence and Perikatan concept of 'musyawarah' (consultation), today's bad episode would have been settled amicably.

Another thing. I consider the government failure in containing such chauvinistic activities is also leading to it.

So, whoever wants war, go ahead! You want racial riots, you make the calls!

But who should we blame for all this? The BRITISH?

When minister is Chinese, no job for Bumi contractors!

This is about 1Malaysia and its administration. A short posting which demands long and solid answers. I want to believe it because it came from a few senior sivil servants. As to whether their allegations can be established, I hope the respective ministers and authorities can give a downright explanation.

1. No Malay contractors were awarded with any jobs by the Tourism Ministry over the last two years. Why? Its minister is a Chinese. This is the worst case, they claimed.

2. Only a few non-Bumiputras managed to get contracts with the Works Ministry. Why? Its minister is a Malay.

3. Only a few 'Melayu' got contracts (small ones) from the Ministry of Human Resource. Why? Its minister is an Indian.

Let's not touch Sabah and Sarawak as the general saying is that, Sabah is for Sabahans while Sarawak is only for Sarawakians. However, contractors from both States are living comfortably in 'Malaya', the Peninsular.

This is serious. But on second thought, I dont see anything wrong with it. Banks and finance companies are more keen in giving out loans to non-Malays. Aahhh... let them.

But I demand some answers for the three cases. The minister in-charge must come up with records and tangible evidence to rebut it. Thank you.

Pas must stay as Opposition!

Umno info chief Ahmad Maslan said on Friday the door for Umno-Pas talks on a solidarity government is still wide open (here). After a lull, the issue was raised again.

Pas president Hadi Awang made the suggestion sometimes mid last year but was shot down by the rest of his colleagues in the party. Umno, on the other hand said such an idea can be considered on one condition - should Pas decides to break ranks with PKR and DAP.

I believe some Umno and Malay leaders are so blind and short-sighted. They tend to forget history. They easily jump into the 'solidarity' bandwagon for the sake of not to be accused of taking up the matter so lightly or for granted.

Pas used to be with us and then left. Since then, the Malays seemed to be decomposed over the split but nobody could detect the 'blessing in disguise' in that split.

Going by the political trend today - where DAP speaks louder in the Parliament while the Chinese are getting less attracted to the Barisan Nasional multi-racialism concept - the Malays should just let Pas on its own.

Pas also needs to detach itself from the Pakatan Rakyat pact if it is so concern about Malay unity. PKR too should consider that for the sake of Malay consolidation. But suggestions for the setting up of a '1Melayu, 1Bumi' as proposed by Perkasa and other Malay organisations are no longer practical.

Such an idea should have been the thrust of Malay revolution when they fought British plan to implement Malayan Union in 1946. At that particular time, the Malays were still the master of Tanah Melayu while immigrants from China and India were not even granted the citizenship yet.

But the Chinese and India descendants are our friends now. They form almost half of Malaysian community, enjoying almost all privileges (except subsidies under the affirmative program to help Bumiputras). They have contributed well in our country's development.

The 'Malay unity' label should augur well in bringing together all Malays, irrespective of ideologies. However, for Pas and Umno forming a solidarity government is a bit awkward. They should instead cooperate on issues to advance the Malays.

I dont want to touch on this topic too much. Some may get irritated and agitated but I just want to suggest one thing.

Pas should retain its status quo (minus DAP and PKR) as an Opposition party. Not that we in Umno cannot work together with them in a solidarity government but we need Pas to become a strong and constructive Malay opposition party to neutralise DAP 'racism'.

I think former PM Tun Dr Mahathir and other Umno (and Malay) veterans agree and recognise the wisdom of the then 'split strategy' between Umno and Pas. There is no more need for Pas to align its politics to that of PKR and DAP if its leaders really want to take up Malay issue in a clear context.

The Malays (I hope PKR too can consider this) must unite for the sake of their interest by not taking other people's constitutional rights. We are not living under the British protectorate anymore. We are managing our own country and government.

Being a good and constructive Opposition will help develop the nation further. A bad Opposition only criticizes and doesnt contribute to nation building.

This has nothing to do with racism but for the betterment of the Malays. A well-united and prospered Malays will mean a better Malaysia for all. I wonder whether a young politician like Ahmad Maslan can read it along the dotted lines...

Shahrizat likes 'pondan'?

Take a look at this picture. Physically, they are men. Are they pretty? What drove them to put on such outfits, God knows.... and we should too! I wonder how many of them are on this planet, and how many are around us.

They are human, of course but many believe they can be 'restructured'. Men are men still. I have seen them, few are my friends; some can change while others find it difficult to.

So, when Women, Family and Community Development Minister Shahrizat Jalil showed her displeasure over an action taken by Terengganu Education Dept to send 66 'feminine' schoolboys to a special camp (read here) in order to 'make them true boys', I believe she was being unrealistic.

I am not against this people. However, most of them were not born with such femininity. The people whom they mingled with, their surroundings and the way they were brought up are contributing to it.

I know a few real male journalists who turned into such a character when they changed desks - either from a crime reporter to entertainment or from a sports writer to entertainment. You want me to name them?

The state Dept had sent 66 secondary schoolboys, who had exhibited effeminate characteristics, to the four-day camp in Besut to help address the "problem". Its director Razali Daud maintained that the department had acted "correctly".

He stressed that the boot camp has been designed to "prevent the boys from developing feminine traits which could hamper their future... and if such tendencies were not curbed at a young age, it would lead to bigger problems for them in the future."

Yeah, why not? What would they be when they are matured enough or after they left schools? Please bear in mind that they are MALAYS! We want to see them getting married, have family and kids.

Unless the ministry of some NGOs already have good places and jobs for them. Will some of them turn into a 'pondan' minister one day?

I dont want to write more. Each and everyone of us deserves the rights to opine but in this issue, I support such a move by the Dept. Anything to say, Muhyiddin?

How does Islam define a 'pondan' or 'khunsa'? I know, what about you, Madam Minister? Would you personally prefer to see more of them in the near future?

Double agent job, anyone?

About spies and secret agents. I remember a few bloggers and pro-BN politicians were hot on Anwar's 'backside', accusing him of playing spy for CIA. Some even went to the extent that the Opposition Leader was close to Israel.

Rembau MP and Pemuda Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin too was accused of spying for a foreign country although there wasnt any single proof whatsoever to substantiate such allegations.

Whether you are on the wrong side or not being in the politics 'good book', such accusations come easy. When you are no longer in power, it will get worse!

Similar case in Tunisia. The bodyguard of deposed Tunisian President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali (pic) has revealed that the ousted president was allegedly spying for the Israeli intelligence service, Mossad.

Abdurrahman Sobair accused Ben Ali, his wife and his son-in-law plus a number of senior Tunisian security officials of spying for Israel, IRNA quoted the bodyguard as telling the Algerian al Shorouk newspaper.

Back in 1991, Leila Trabelsi, Ben Ali's wife, instructed two Tunisian intelligence agents to assassinate a Tunisian businessman who was one of Ben Ali's closest friends, said the bodyguard.

“Leila was also involved in the assassination of several Palestinian leaders in Tunisia,” added Ben Ali's bodyguard, adding that Ben Ali's son-in-law was also involved in the murder of a 4-year-old girl in 1992.

Moreover, he noted that Mohammad al-Arabi al-Mahjubi, the former secretary of the Interior, has had a close cooperation with Mossad since 1990. Investigations carried out by the Tunisian security apparatus showed he had commissioned somebody to commit the crime.

Wow! I wonder who plays such a role in our country and what is the take? Is money laundering part of the mission?

So much of double agents!

Celebrating a 'lost' victory

Congratulations to PM Najib, DPM Muhyiddin, CM Taib, BN party workers and all who helped Barisan Nasional win Sarawak 10th state election. I guess everybody wanted just a win, and that's exactly what we got.

Well, a win is still a win. Had we won just 36 out of the 71 seats, it is still a win. Many would say, no big deal!

BN won 55 from 63 in 2006, DAP 12 (6) while PKR 3 (1). By overall votes, BN got 372,379, DAP 134,847, PKR 117,100, Snap 15,663, PAS 9,719, PCM 2,895 and Independent 20,064 votes.

Looking at it, DAP secured one third of the overall votes. What does this mean? A simple truth - the Chinese is abandoning Barisan Nasional via its Chinese-based party SUPP. Not only in Sarawak, it really showed in the last 17 by-elections.

MCA should take a deeper look into this. Personally, I think the Chinese couldnt care less about who rules the Federal or State governments anymore. They already got almost everything like what their buddies in Singapore have.

They control the country's economic sector, trade and commerce. The only thing that evades them is political power. So, they see DAP as the best alternative to run down the BN government, hoping that one day they would be able to wrest power from the Malay-dominant BN and set up their own Chinese-controlled 'empire'.

I am not against SUPP and MCA but when SUPP president George Chan lost in Piasau, it triggered an alarm for a special post-mortem to be conducted. Are Chinese-based parties losing their grip on the voters? Why?

The number of votes for the Opposition have increased significantly. Never belittle PKR for winning only 3 unimportant seats (as described by some stupid pro-BN analysts). In 2006, they got only 1.

Despite mounting personal and political attacks on Anwar Ibrahim, his party managed to increase the number of representatives in the State Assembly and higher votes this time around. What does this imply? That PKR has no supporters in Sarawak?

What have we learnt from 2008 national poll? Remember the power tussle in Perak and how we lost Penang, Kedah and Selangor? Forget about Kelantan and its political motto - 'demo bui duik, kito ambek; maghi pilihanghayo, kito pakoh PAS'!

And how are we going to the next general election, which some say would be held later this year? Is there any comfort zone for BN to take back the States from Pakatan Rakyat?

Dont look down at the Oppostion onslaught. Similarly, we must not be eased at simple wins or a simple majority. What would happen in the next 10 or 15 years if we still harbor such a contentment? Do you think the Opposition will take a tumble?

I am not at ease. I dont know what Najib, Muhyiddin and other BN leaders feel. Lucky the MIC has no base in Sarawak.

So, are we celebrating?

The Opposition got reasons to...

Its tough, admits Najib

Prime Minister Najib admits it. Chief Minister Taib too. It will not going to be easier this time for Barisan Nasional, come Saturday April 16.

Although confidence is high in the BN camp that the ruling party would again secure a two-third majority, the number of votes may falter. Also, a few more state seats could go to the Opposition, especially the Sibu parliamentary by-election in May 2010 say the seat fell to DAP.

The BN assault is shouldered by Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP), Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) and Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP).

The 'urban Chinese' will again be the decider for BN. During the Sibu by-election, the Chinese were more fond of the Opposition promise of a change. SUPP, the Chinese representative in the state BN, lost six seats to the DAP in 2006, and they are again fighting to win the hearts and minds of the Chinese electorate.

Taib said in Kuching yesterday he was confident the BN would gain more than the 48 seats required for the two-thirds majority because the BN still enjoyed support in the Bumiputera areas that form 80 per cent of the constituencies.

The BN held 63 seats in the 71-member state assembly and is contesting all seats again this time.

The bulk of the opposition is coming from Peninsular-based Parti Keadilan Rakyat and DAP which are fielding 49 and 15 candidates respectively while PAS is contesting five seats. Homegrown Sarawak National Party is banking on a revival by standing in 26 seats after its talks with the PKR on seat distribution collapsed, while Parti Cinta Malaysia has six candidates.

A total of 213 candidates including 41 independents are contesting this time around.

Although analysts said BN could win by a bigger majority - plus the possible split in votes among the opposition because they had failed to compromise on seats due to greed - Najib and other leaders remained cautious.

As for the opposition harping on the tenure of Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, it is no longer an issue as Taib himself had indicated that he would retire in a year or two, and that his successor has been identified.

Issue brought up by Iban tribe on as when will 'an Ibanese' can become a Sarawak CM has also been defused while land tittle complication was settled much earlier.

The only thing that matters now is how to convince and persuade the Chinese to opt for BN. As Sibu has provided a morale booster to the Opposition, DAP could provide just the challenge for BN candidates on Saturday.

However, with a full force machinery from the Peninsular - including PM, DPM Muhyiddin and other senior ministers - Sarawakians should be able to get the message clear that only BN can champion their causes.

Rais blasts DAP

There is nothing for DAP to boast about its achievement in Penang. In fact, the Opposition is putting the state to disorder; the Malays are being sidelined while most projects went to cronies and friends within then party.

Minister of Information, Communication and Culture Rais Yatim brought up the issue in Kuching yesterday. Indeed, the DAP has nothing to proof, not just yet.

Its collaboration with PKR and PAS is also in question. The way Lim Guan Eng's administration treats the Penang Malays gets no objection from PKR. In fact, Anwar Ibrahim seems to be giving DAP his 'soft permitting' as not to harm the pact.

It was a good issue. Being a senior politician, Rais was quick to distinguish it and smacked the party leadership.

During nomination in Sibu last Wednesday, the DAP said its victory in Sibu Parliamentary election last May was a proof that Sarawakians were asking for changes in its leadership. Chua Jui Meng, the sour grape in MCA before joining PKR was also confident that Pakatan Rakyat would win most of Sibu's state constituents.

However, PR failed to answer some questions about Penang and Selangor. The Penang Malay issue, Guan Eng's 'close door' policy, the Selangor Mentri Besar's cronyism and their stand on Anwar of late, got them soaked.

PR manifesto, too was a re-hatch of its undelivered promises in Penang, Selangor and Kelantan. Nik Aziz, who once a respected ulama is fast losing his credibility after making inconstant statements, one after another, about PR and Anwar.

What is there to boast of when the migration of more than 400,000 Kelantanese to Kuala Lumpur and other states proofs PAS too fails to deliver what it promised.

However, the Federal Government never fail in giving financial assistance and grants to Kelantan, Penang and Selangor despite being the Opposition States. And these money too helps Nik Aziz, Guan Eng and Khalid administer their respective governments.

So, stop talking about achievement, PR! You should be thankful to the Federal Government, instead for making it possible for the 3 States to move on. It is BN money that keeps the system in tact, and pays your salaries and other things.

So, how do you expect to win Sarawak when you failed to answer questions about Penang and Selangor? You cant kid the Sarawakians!

Taktik kotor dan keji PR hasut penganut Kristian

Satu lagi taktik kotor pakatan pembangkang untuk mengaburi pengundi Sarawak, khususnya di kalangan mereka yang beragama Kristian.

Baca saja SMS berantai yang dihantar ke sebahagian besar pengundi di Bintulu dan Sarikei ini, yang berbaur hasutan dan fitnah. Kerajaan Barisan Nasional dikatakan anti-Kristian dan menidakkan hak mereka.

Nampaknya mereka sudah kehilangan akal dan idea untuk menarik pengundi. Taktik ini memang datang dari mereka, bertujuan memburuk-burukkan kerajaan dan memperlekehkan usaha perpaduan yang diunjurkan di bawah konsep 1Malaysia.

"Today the Council of Churches Malaysia has rejected the Government's 10-point solution on the al-Kitab. Vote against BN is a vote for Jesus. BN is an anti-Christ agent. Christians are being discriminated and rights in Constitution denied. Dont vote for BN. "If you are a true Christian, send this message to 8 other Christians."

Hasil siasatan mendapati, tidak ada persatuan gereja di Malaysia yang mengeluarkan kenyataan sedemikian. Ia sudah pasti diada-adakan oleh Pakatan Rakyat untuk memancing undi dan memerangkap penganut agama Kristian di negara ini, khasnya di Sarawak.

Suruhanjaya Komunikasi dan Multimedia (SKMM) harus menyiasat dari mana punca SMS berantai ini dan membawa mereka yang terbabit ke muka pengadilan kerana menyebarkan hasutan yang boleh mencetuskan kemarahan penganut Kristian negara ini.

Kementerian Dalam Negeri juga perlu bertindak tegas terhadap sesiapa yang menjadi dalang dalam hal ini dan menghantarnya ke Kamunting untuk menerima 'asuhan'.

Kalau dah korup dengan idea, inilah rumusan terbaik dapat difikirkan oleh PR. Mereka memang memudaratkan keselamatan negara!

Pakatan Rakyat pun tak faham manifesto sendiri!

Pakatan Rakyat pagi tadi mengumumkan manifesto 10 perkara bagi menghadapi pilihanraya negeri Sarawak, sebahagian besarnya isu sama dan masih tidak tertunai pada pilihanraya umum ke-12 pada 2008.

Apa lagi kalau bukan isu kebebasan agama, kerajaan yang telus, membasmi kemiskinan, hubungan baik Kerajaan Pusat dan Negeri dan mengurangkan pengangguran. Mungkin satu-satunya isu baru ialah pemulihan sistem pemilikan tanah di Sarawak, yang dianggap bukan lagi isu kerana sudah pun diselesaikan oleh kerajaan negeri.

Pengerusi DAP Sarawak, Wong Ho Leng ketika mengumumkannya di Sibu pagi tadi, turut menyentuh isu penghijauan Sarawak yang menjurus kepada pembalakan yang dikatakan tanpa henti oleh pihak yang dilantik kerajaan negeri.

Beliau enggan mengakui hakikat bahawa pembalakan di Sarawak dijalankan secara bersitematik dan tidak 'menggodolkan' kawasan terbabit seperti yang didakwa pembangkang. Manifesto ini mungkin dibuat dalam keadaan tergesa-gesa tanpa kajian.

Amat aneh. Kebebasan beragama yang sebagaimanakah dimaksudkan oleh Pakatan Rakyat sedangkan kerajaan memang inilah dasar yang diamalkan oleh kerajaan selama ini. Malah, ia terkandung dalam Perlembagaan Persekutuan.

Mungkin PR ingin memperkenalkan kebebasan seperti di beberapa negara lain, contohnya Indonesia di mana orang bukan Islam yang ingin berkahwin dengan pasangan Islam tidak diwajibkan memeluk agama Islam.

Barangkali PAS juga menyokong saranan ini, yang sekaligus akan meranapkan peruntukan Perlembagaan. Atau PR sendiri memang ada peranan khas ketika kitab Injil bahasa Melayu, al-Kitab diterbitkan dan dihimpunkan di Sarawak!

Saya juga tidak faham secara khusus apa yang dimaksudkan keadilan bagi semua rakyat Sarawak di bidang budaya dan pendidikan. Soalan yang bermain di kepala ialah, bolehkah PR menjamin minoriti Penan akan mendapat layanan istimewa seperti yang diberikan oleh kerajaan negeri sekarang?

Malah, hasratnya mengekalkan Sarawak sebagai sebuah negeri sekular tidak ada bezanya dengan pendekatan Barisan Nasional. Tak tahulah kalau sekularisme PR akan membenarkan masyarakat pribumi diinjak-injak seperti mana DAP membuli dan meminggirkan Melayu Pulau Pinang sekarang!

Janji untuk agihan sama rata hasil kekayaan bumi Sarawak juga boleh dipertikaikan. Jika dilihat kepada Selangor dan Pulau Pinang, kekayaan kedua-dua negeri ini hanya dikhaskan kepada pemimpin PKR, DAP, dan PAS saja.

Jadi, siapa lagi akan menikmati kesamarataan ini jika PR memerintah Sarawak? Orang Singapura?

Janji yang 'sedikit baru' ialah penyambungan tanpa syarat pajakan tanah selama 99 tahun, sesuatu yang pada hakikatnya sukar dilaksanakan kerana kebanyakan tanah milik pribumi sudah pun memiliki status pajakan sehingga 999 tahun.

Mengenai kemiskinan, PR berjanji akan menubuhkan dana RM1 bilion bagi melaksanakan projek jalan kampung bagi menghubungkan semua kawasan luar bandar. Dari manakah PR akan mendapat dana sebanyak itu, tidaklah diketahui sedangkan usaha berterusan Kerajaan Pusat di bawah projek jalan desa masih diteruskan.

Sedarkah PR bahawa Kerajaan Pusat dan Negeri mengambil masa bertahun-tahun untuk membangunkan jalan kampung ini dan lebih RM50 bilion sudah dibelanjakan sejak 1970an. Jadi, apakah model pembangunan PR untuk melaksanakannya dalam tempoh yang singkat?

Bekas Menteri Kesihatan, Chua Jui Meng yang turut hadir di majlis pengumuman manifesto itu, enggan menjawab soalan pihak media mengenai siapakah yang menyusun manifesto itu dan sama ada ia mendapat persetujuan semua komponennya.

Namun apa yang pasti, manifesto ini kebanyakannya mengandungi perkara lapuk yang masih tidak terlaksana di Semenanjung, khasnya di Pulau Pinang dan Selangor, Malah di Kelantan pun, pucuk kepimpinan PAS masih berbelah bahagi mengenai pelaksanaannya.

Selepas diamati, di manakah letaknya lojik manifesto PR di Sarawak?

Only DAP poses a threat

The only threat for Barisan Nasional in the Sarawak state election comes from DAP. As for PKR and PAS, their ability to 'sting' voters is getting blunt, thanks to the Anwar who is embroiled in his latest dilemma, the sex video clip.

There would be some sympathies for PKR as a result of the issue but since the media published some pictures of it a few days ago, it is fast diminishing.

As for PAS, its unstable ideology - from an Islamic approach to Pakatan Rakyat secularism - has not augured well in effort to make a big stomp in the state. Nonetheless, the peculiarity in which PAS leaders make their stand in Anwar's case reflects their uncertainty for the political pact.

BN gotta take up the challenge from DAP. Forget about PKR and PAS.

After winning Sibu Parliamentary seat in the by-election last May, DAP has mobilised its political machinery to give special attention in other towns. Their focus is to conquer as many state seats in Bintulu, Miri, Kuching, Mukah and Sarikei.

In Sibu, its state seats in Dudong, Bukit Assek, Senadin, Pelawan and Bawang Assan will brace for stiff competition between candidates from BN and DAP. With the Chinese and Iban form the majority of voters, BN must give strong emphasis on its campaigns here.

After nomination at Sibu Municipal Council Library building this morning, Bukit Assek incumbent and DAP chairman Wong Ho Leng said he is confident of defending his seat while at least two more seats in the Parlimentary would fall to DAP.

He will face Chieng Buong Tong of SUPP, who is out to wrest back Bukit Assek seat for BN.

Phone calls to some journos and bloggers around Sarawak also pointed to the same issue - be ready for DAP onslaught.

As election campaign kicks off today, many believe DAP will ride on Anwar's issue which they believe could attract young voters.

Also read Bernama reports

Sex video: A new lucrative industry!

Have you seen the video? I have not but I think many Malaysians had. Millions of foreigners too.

In the country, students as young as 7-year old have seen it. Others are tempted to watch it too. I wonder if our youths would be aroused to copy the act. What if more 'made in Malaysia' illicit materials are posted on U-Tube.

Congrats. We are turning Kuala Lumpur into another Amsterdam or Copenhagen for the production of 'blue films'. Once we set the precedent, nothing will stop others from doing it. Can we charge them in court should our young producers try to proof their talent?

Who to blame? Anwar Ibrahim? Rahim Tamby Chik? The media? Bloggers?

Information, Communication and Culture Minister Rais Yatim said in Kuching today (here) that the government would study the Laws under the Malaysian Communications and Multi-Media Act 1998 before taking further action on the revealing of 'Anwar' sex video clip.

What prompted him to say such and why didnt he make such a comment much earlier? Have he seen the video too? Okay... but what kind of action can be taken and against who? The actor, its producer or its distributor?

I thought we already have a strong set of law in prohibiting the display of illicit materials on the Internet or other medium. What happened to it? Or there are still loopholes!

Dont tell me the next time someone comes up with another sex video clip, he is free to do so as there is no specific law to charge him. While you were in Kuching making the statement, a coffee shop in Sibu was trying to give its patrons a sneak preview of it!

Can we reprimand the owner and close his shop?

Sarawak poll: 'Ngap Sayot' for BN?

BN today announced its candidates lineup for 17 constituencies (except Bakelalan), including 18 new faces for the April 16 state election challenge (read here).

PBB got most seats, at 35 while other components SUPP (19), PRS (9) and SPDP (8). Going by party memberships, it was a fair one (here). Only SPDP has yet to pick it candidate for N70 seat in Bakelalan.

The BN candidates were announced by PBB information chief Tan Sri Adenan Satem in Kuching.

The new faces from PBB are Dr Hazaland Abang Hipni (for Demak Laut), Martin Ben (Kedup), Aidel Lariwoo (Sadong Jaya), Razali Ghapor (Beting Maro), Razi Sitam (Saribas), Datuk Len Talif Salleh (Belawai), Dolah Saidol (Semop), Dr Annuar Rapee (Nangka), Ripin Lamat (Lambir) and Dennis Ngau (Telang Usan).

The first-timers from SUPP are Sim Kiam Chiok (Padungan), Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian (Pending), Sih Hua Tong (Batu Lintang), Ling Kie King (Meradong), Chieng Buong Toon (Bukit Assek), Datuk Tiong Thai King (Dudong) and Henry Ling (Kidurong). The sole newcomer from PRS is Stanley Unja for Pelagus.

Meanwhile, All the four leaders of the component parties of Sarawak Barisan Nasional (BN) will be defending their respective seats in the upcoming April 16 state election.

Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, who is Sarawak BN chairman and Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) president, will be defending his Balingian seat in Mukah. Taib, 74, won uncontested his first state seat in the Sebandi by-election in March, 1981.

He had been Sebandi assemblyman, now known as Asajaya, before moving to the Balingian state constituency in the 2001 state election.

Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) president Tan Sri Dr George Chan, 74, who is also Sarawak Deputy Chief Minister, will be defending his Piasau state seat for his seventh term. Chan first won the seat in 1983 (then known as Miri) uncontested.

Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) president Datuk Seri Dr James Masing will be defending his Baleh seat in Hulu Rajang, also for his seventh term since first winning it in 1983.

As for Sarawak Progressive Democratic Party (SPDP) president Datuk Seri William Mawan, he will be defending his Pakan constituency of Julau, which he has won six times consecutively since 1983.

The Election Commission has set April 6 for nomination day. Whether BN will register a 'Ngap Sayot' results this time around as compared to the last poll in 2006, depends on sentiments during the 10-day campaigning period.

Al-Kitab: No more issue

I hope the 10-point statement issued by Minister at the PM Dept Idris Jala on the al-Kitab (Bibles in Bahasa Melayu) today is able to defuse any confusion among Malaysians and foreigners (read here).

The Christians, too could sigh in relief that the 'Muslim-controlled' government is a level-headed one and is not what they accused of previously.

As for the Malays who are Muslims, there is nothing to worry unless there is an additional demand for the al-Kitab to become another subject in Sekolah Kebangsaan and Sekolah Menengah.

I dont think the al-Kitab should be an issue anymore. Our al-Quran comes in many languages, including the Hebrew to suit Muslims all over the world. Malaysian Muslims too need not worry that their children' faith will be affected.

What's important is for Muslim to give adequate Islamic teaching to their children. And I dont think the Malays would be interested to buy or even read the al-Kitab if some of us are not even keen to read the al-Quran!

On top of that, please stop accusing the govt of trying to woo Christian votes for the Sarawak state election.

Sex video: Cyber Security is the expert

IGP Ismail Omar today confirmed the 'Anwar' sex video is genuine and not doctored. The police may also ask foreign experts to support the findings by a local firm, which said the man in the video 'resembles' the Opposition Leader.

I dont understand why Ismail did not name the local expert (here). However, a few phone calls revealed it was Cyber Security Sdn Bhd under Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

I guess Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein too would be announcing it pretty soon as to quash rumors that the govt had asked the experts to 'confirm' the authenticity of the video.

Cyber Security is a non-profiteering company under MOSTI, with the main task of undertaking research and innovation in cyber-related areas.

Looks like Anwar has to find other avenues to deny such accusations. Where will he go from here?