Math and Science in English or Malay?

1. Nowadays Malaysia Education Minister Datuk Hishammudin Tun Hussein must be in a state of quandary. He has to make a decision. Whether to maintain the teaching of Math and Science in english, or to revert to Bahasa Malaysia. Some quarters really want to revert to Bahasa Malaysia, while some argue that english is the best medium.

2. For english speaking Malaysians, the argument must be about the status of english in development of math and science internationally. Science & Math Journals and R&D articles published around the world are using english. Therefore our youths must not be left out under the coconut shell (di bawah tempurung). By teaching them these two subjects in english, they would be able to participate and compete internationally, not just confined to Bahasa Malaysia speaking community.

3. Fair enough, they have their valid reasons for using english. Since our country produced very little advancement or new knowledge in science and technology. Malaysia has been a big importer of foreign know-how and technologies. Aside from winning several high-school science award in little known science and technology expos, Malaysia has nothing to boast of to international community.

4. Take our highways for example! Remember when debris from MRR2 started falling in Kepong. Our engineers could not do anything about it. Then they started calling engineers from Germany who in my opinion did a sloppy job themselves. But they have the know-how and technologies to build elevated highway which Malaysia's lacking.

5. What about the controversial eurocopters deal? Those foreign military choppers to replace the shoddy Nuris. The purchase of submarines and military ships from foreign countries, etc. etc. etc. and etc. Seem like our english educated engineers are good at nothing but one. Negotiating deal with foreign salesman. As I suppose, english is used on negotiation table.

6. I think what important is to present the concept in the best possible manner. We want Math & Science concept to be ingrained into the pupils brain as effectively as possible. We cannot run away from the facts that most students in rural area, especially in Sabah are not that well versed in english. Even those living in big towns also are not that good in english.

7. Some Malaysian speaks english fluently. For me, I have to slowly translate malay word to english first in my mind before saying or writing it out. That's why my english is bad. But I can speak and deliver my message better to an englishman rather than to any good Malaysian english speaker. Because I know, that they too can speak and understand Malay. But sometimes pride can be an obstacle.

8. Nevertheless, I would still speak to them in Malay to deliver my message better, rather than to stammer with lots of uhhmmm, hmmm... ahhh...., etc. Unless of course if that person has been staying in kampung all his life, never learn the language in school, or would rather die than to face the shame of speaking Malay. In that case I would relent and let him have his way and with me stammering along.

9. Because to be honest in most of my business dealings in KL, most of them speaks stammering english. Or very quick fluent english without any interruption until I could not understand them at all. Mind you englishman from London would also frown at them. Which is correct? Malaysian english or British English? Have we surpassed the english? That we become more english than the english? Whiter than white?

10. Broken english is definitely not good for the students, it will make them more confused, lost and unable to grasp the concept while trying hard to understand the language. You tell me! Do we want to teach the concept or the language? Our school already have English Language as one of the primary subjects. Even that subject also charted inferior national examination results thus far, why not focus on the subject instead to improve the students' english?

11. Work on the elementary first. The students must be taught english from home, since they were small. Having a household who speak broken english, such as "Baby, come come.. my baby not speak english proper2 oledy, too much champor-champor with other language" or "My Son oni speak english one, he not know speak Chinese or Malay one. Huisss speak Malay lagi no good one!" will not help.

12. History had proven that many branches of Math were not invented by english speaking mathematicians. For example algebra, a branch of mathematics invented by Islamic Persian mathematician Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi. He didn't speak english, yet able to come out with such a revolutionary mathematical concept. Well then you may ask, what about Isaac Newton? Ok he is english, but he was not the only mathematician. There are many others.

13. The abacus was developed by the chinese. It was built out of wood and beads. It could be held and carried around easily. The abacus was so successful that its use spread from China to many other countries. It helps people keep track of numbers as they do the computing. It was invented nearly 5000 years ago. This is one of the great computing tool. There's no way that english language had any influence on this great invention.

14. Upon understanding how to determine the volume of an object, Archimedes leapt out of his bath tub, then took to the streets naked. So excited by his discovery that he had forgotten to dress, crying "eureka! eureka! eureka!" He certainly did not say it in english, which would mean "I Got It".

15. Ptolemy, Copernicus, Aristotle, Leonardo Da Vinci, Pythagoras, etc. to say the least have all contributed greatly to science. There are so many others in different fields, such as in astronomical science, etc. Most are started or invented by those who did not speak a word of english in their life. Not knowing english didn't deprive these great inventors from producing groundbreaking science and mathematical inventions. Then why on earth do we think that it will deprive our schoolchildren here in Malaysia?

16. I wonder why Japan can be a pioneer in science and technology though their english is crappy.

17. Lastly, I believe Language is not to IMPRESS, but to EXPRESS. Simple solution is to teach Math and Science in a language where the students are more comfortable with. Kadazan, Chinese, Tamil, Telegu, Malay, English... No issue as long as the students could understand better.

Quick Fix Complacency

1. Tan Sri Bernard Dompok of UPKO has "Flipped" by urging Prime Minister to scrap a plan to construct 480km pipeline from Kimanis to Bintulu in Sarawak. He got an immediate "Flipped" from the PM with a promise that the project will be stopped.

2. Last week, the Prime Minister "Flopped" on his decision and said that the project will go on as planned. The multi-million ringgit project will proceed. Natural gas harvested from Sabah will still be channeled to Bintulu Sarawak for processing. With one sweetener, whereby a Petro Chemical plant will be built in Sabah, and only "excess of gas" that is not processed in Sabah will be channeled to Bintulu.

3. Then Tan Sri Bernard Dompok "Flopped" and said thanks to the Prime Minister for his empathy and generosity. Now that Sabah will have a Petro Chemical Plant to process its own gas, Sabah will be one of the major players in Petro Chemical Industry in Malaysia. No doubt, it will open many job opportunities for our youths in Oil & Gas technology.

4. We welcome the decision, whatever that is good for Sabah. My only worry is the follow up and implementation. You all should be worry too, because of the ridiculous "Flipped Flopping" by our leaders. I think we should not be so quick in thanking the Prime Minister and let the gas pipeline project to go on. How could a hundredth million ringgits project be stopped and resumed in a period of less than five months? You tell me! On what guarantee that the PM will not conjure another "Flop" in the next five months?

5. Another worrying part in the PM promise is when he said only "excess gas" will be channeled to Bintulu. After so many broken promises, we now know better, when a promise is made; a promise is 50% bound to be broken. What is "excess gas"? How much would it be? Would you build hundredth million ringgits gas pipeline just to channel 20 gallons a day? All these have to be defined first before UPKO can let their guard down and genuinely thank the Prime Minister and let the gas pipeline project proceed as planned.

6. Sabah has been left out of Oil and Gas Industry all this while. Eventhough Sabah is one of three producers in Malaysia, but all the precious treasures have been sold to others. We are getting only 5% in royalty. And yes our youths most of them migrate to Peninsula plying odd jobs, labourer, masseuse!, drivers, etc. Tan Sri Bernard Dompok, you should know better through Momogun Society in Klang Valley. Don't you?

Social vs. Federation Contract

1. The Sultans and the rulers of Malaysia issued a strong statement to defend the so-called "social contract". The Rulers warned that there should never be any attempt to test or challenge issues related to the social contract. Like a recent forum organized by Bar Council.

2. Sultan of Perak proposed teaching of "social contract" in education institutions. “The social contract is part of our history. Our children could then learn and understand what the social contract is without any sensitivity, suspicion or feeling that they have been left out.”

3. As expected, chorus of support were given to the rhetoric. Leaders of various communities came out in full support of the rulers stand. Their sincerity remains a question. Ong Ka Ting, Samy Vellu, etc. supported the kings stand. They praised the kings' strong message. All because of a subscript from the main message that is "The Rulers assured the "non-Malays" of their rights under the Federal Consti-tution."

4. In this euphoria of supremacists, nobody seem to care about the definition of "social contract". They've been focusing on one point, and that one point is apparently "unknown". Your Highness, we beg you. For your subjects unable to comprehend the concept!

5. But where's our Sabahan leaders? No one came out in support or disagree with the message from the rulers. What are we? Are we unable to articulate our sentiments? Where is Bernard Dompok who said he will continue to defend Sabahans rights. Who said that the more we discuss sensitive Sabahans issues, the less they'll become a problem. Where is Pairin? Where are all those so-called defender of Sabah?

6. The "social contract" if it ever does, only exists tacitly in conjectures defended by certain parties. An agreement between the communities in Malaya, mandated when the Malays agreed to give citizenship to the Chinese and Indians Immigrants. In return of the goodwill gestures by the Malays, then the Immigrants agreed to bestow special rights to the Malays. In other word it was like a debt to be paid by the next generations. And mind you, by the look of current development, it will never be fully settled.

7. If the above definition is true, then the "social contract" was never and will never be applicable to Sabahans in Sabah. We were not indebted in any way to any party within Malaysia. We do not need to pay anything. We should never be obliged to adhere to any contracts. We were awarded independence on August 31st 1963, before joining Malaysia on September 16th 1963. As an equal partner with equal rights.

8. And yes, how could our Sabahan leaders kept quiet after the Sultan of Perak proposed teaching of "social contract" in schools? It is like telling our Sabahan children that their forefathers carried a social debt that they now have to pay. Sabahans shall never agree to this. Not until the "federation contract"; the contract and agreement clauses used to form Malaysia; is similarly taught in schools.

Legalized PATI (Pendatang Asing Tanpa Izin)

1. It's an Open Secret that Illegal Immigrants are roaming freely in Sabah. Many argued that the solutions from federal government were mere superficial actions to curb people's growing anger. The 50 million ringgit recently allocated by the federal government for massive illegal immigrant sweep in Sabah, as i see it, and I believe many of you concur with me, that the operation did NOT produce any significant result.

2. These Illegal Immigrants have established their own dwellings in several parts of Sabah. Some of these enclaves have become eyesores to us Sabahans and to incoming tourists. One wouldn't disagree that Pulau Gaya is a safe haven for Illegal Immigrants. This is a hive and clusters of menacing drug dealers juxtaposed with the constant supply of other vices in Kota Kinabalu. And yet the recent Illegal Immigrants Operations focused on areas such as Penampang and Putatan. Wouldn't they haul more success if they concentrated the operation in these known enclaves? Or are the dwellers in Pulau Gaya already attained Citizenship?

3. Enforcers do not need to face all the trouble going to Pulau Gaya. They can just focus their operation at Center Point Shopping center, with clearly more fishes to fish there. For those enforcers eagerly waiting to impress, expecting a pay hike or even trying to "kipas" their bosses, a right time would be during festive seasons like the recent Hari Raya Aidilftiri. You would be spoilt for choices, a lot of foreigners are roaming the streets. Stateless street children are everywhere. You won't be dissapointed. But be warned though, you will need a bigger and more Temporary Detention Centers. Such as those in Menggatal Bukit Paradise, Sandakan and Tawau.

4. Having more Temporary Detention Centers means having to fork out more from the government coffers. Money that could and should be spent on genuine citizen would be wasted in funding Illegal Immigrants. In which they in the first place were allowed in by unscrupulous "agents" for attaining political supremacy through dubious means. And yes, these "agents" did gain upper-hand in Sabah's politics. You can see their supremacy by unfair award of government projects. But they failed to notice the dangerous after effects of their greed. One Illegal Immigrants who came to Sabah twenty years ago would have already multiplied to a family of 5 children by now.

5. This is the stark reality looming unto us. Say if there were 300,000 (by all means this figure is not accurate) legalized Illegal Immigrants in 1990. By now there would be already about 1,000,000 of them. Most are born in Sabah and mostly spent their lives in the ghettos. Mind you, these Illegal Immigrants are living in a morbid environment with lack of amenities and healthcare. They have been totally forgotten by the "agents" that brought them in. After giving the "agents" an unfair advantage in the local political scenes, now these Illegal Immigrants have been forsaken and living in forlorn. Deprived by a goodwill thanks they should readily deserve from those "agents" for a job "well done".

6. Our Sabah politicians, notably UPKO recently have reaffirmed their commitment in supporting the federal government led by UMNO. There's no need to reiterate Sabahans requests to the federal government. They should already positively notifed of our predicaments. For Sabahan Politicians, I say Go On Barking At The Wrong Tree.

7. Together let us throw out these "agents" that have made our life miserable. Unite and be counted, stand firm in the presence of political turbulence. As Sabahans, we have great responsibility to ensure fairness and equality are served to our chidlren and their grandchildren's children. For those forsaken Legalized PATI, you can help us too, you can help gouge out the eyes of those "agents" who had forsaken you. An eye for an eye.

Solution for a Lost Identity

1. 78 year old Mrs. Yong Lee Hua, a sino-kadazan (like myself) lost her identity card in a supermarket in Penampang last year. She is a genuine Malaysian Citizen, a Sabahan, residing in Sabah even before independence in 1963.

2. She went to National Registration Department hoping to get a new MyKad. But only to be disappointed when she was instead given a red IC with a status of a permanent resident. Equivalent to a refugee in her own country.

3. Imagine this, as a genuine citizen mistaken as a refugee, she will be denied all citizenry rights. She will not be able to acquire land nor buying a house. She will not be able to buy Amanah Saham Nasional ASN range of shares. Her children or relatives will be living in constant fear that her PR status could be revoked anytime and lots of other predicament that we would not normally face as a citizen.

4. UPKO was frustrated with the way Mrs. Yong Lee Hua case was handled by the National Registration Department. Led by Wilfred Bumburing who even threatened to review UPKO's position in Barisan Nasional if the issue is not promptly settled.

5. I give credits to UPKO for bringing the case up. At least the people who are living in ignorance of peninsula's hegemony will know the issues Sabahans are facing. But they will always make us wonder. Why now? Why barking on a wall? I can assure you, it will not move an inch.

6. Even if Mrs. Yong Lee Hua case is settled. I think there are hundreds others who are facing the same problem. Living as a permanent resident in their own country. As said by Donald Mojuntin, UPKO will always try to help those who are affected. Donald even revealed two other Sabahans who were issued red IC.

7. In my humble opinion, a solution to this problem is simple.

8. National Registration Department is keeping over 20 million of civilian demographic records. Added to that, they are also keeping biometric and portrait records of each citizen. All inside a database.

9. Regardless whether you have or have not registered a MyKad, your biometric record should exists in JPN database. This is because prior to rolling out MyKad, JPN I believe had conducted conversion of the old blue Identity Card from Paper Form into computerized digital data. The fingerprints have been digitized enabling 'Matching' with a person's live fingerprints.

10. These biometric records are kept securely in Putrajaya NRD Department. Why not use this sophisticated technology to arcertain Mrs. Yong Lee Hua identity? Remember CSI (Crime Scene Investigation)? Mrs. Yong Lee Hua biometric record should exists in NRD database, because she had an IC before. The one that she lost in the supermarket. So, her biometric record should be reusable.

11. There are two types of matching.

12. Number one is called 1 to 1. This way NRD should call Mrs. Yong in. And conduct a search in their database, either by name "Yong Lee Hua", by her old ID number that is if she could remember it. And by any other demographic data as claimed by her. The search should be straight forward, don't 'kelentong' me that NRD cannot do that, I Know it can be done. When the record that she claimed hers is found. Then the stored fingerprint can be used to 'match' with her live finger, of course with the help of state of the art biometric device. Come on! don't tell me NRD do not have this facility! If Mrs. Yong 'live fingerprint' positively matches with the 'stored biometric record' then we can positively say that 'she is what she claimed she is'.

13. Number two is called 1 to many. This way NRD can call Mrs. Yong in, take her 'live fingerprints' and dump it into NRD biometric database to search against 20 over million of fingerprints data. The purpose is to find 'matching candidates' for the 'biometric database'. If there is a positive match, then the system should be able to tell with 'whose record' Mrs. Yong 'live fingerprints' matches with.

14. If the results are positive. Issue a new MyKad lah BONGOK. Problem solved.

Hormat Kepada Orang Tua

Syed Hamid to Murugiah: Don’t butt in.

Malaysians are rich in culture and traditions. Strict rules and regulations are observe in every part of life. There are taboos, do and dont's, cultural performances, etc. "Malaysian proverbs" is one of the myriad of cultural heritage inherited from our fore-fathers. They are commonly used by parents to discipline their children. The folks have many of these short words of wisdom that express effectively some commonplace truth or useful thought. These proverbs have effectively inculcate good manners in young Malaysians.

"Hormat Kepada Orang Tua" or "Respect the Elders" is a popular Malay proverb. It is a wise and profound saying that has been passed from generation to generations. Remember primary school? We have learned a lot of proverbs in school. From standard 1 until SPM. Remember "Pendidikan Moral"?. You have to respect anyone who are at least a day older than you, and you cannot deny whatever they say, even if you don't agree with them. At least not openly, or in front of a third party. Because that would mean you do not respect them. "Diorang Lebih Dulu Makan Garam" or "They've Eaten More Salt Than You" is another proverb to suggest an older person is categorically much wiser than you. By not respecting the elders, then you are not observing your cultural root, your racial lineage. No matter how ridiculous their opinion is, you have to live with it, never criticize them, and you will be fine. Just go to a corner, get a blanket, drape yourself and cry like a gelded donkey.

Barisan Nasional have been ruling in Malaysia for half-a-century. This party is also strict in its dos and dont's. Cultural taboos have been observed incessantly. The leaders are steep in tradition. This is all the more evident when any leader within Barisan Nasional speaks up against a collective decision made in higher echelon, then he will be rebuked by the BN chief whip. A leader who spoke up is entitled for a party disciplinary action. He can be suspended, fired from his post or given show cause letter for his audacity to speak against his "boss". Come to think of it,. Not much different from a proverb "Melawan orang Tua" or "Disrespect to the elders/superior" isn't it?

Remember Datuk S. Sothinathan? He has been suspended for three months as Natural Resources and Environment Deputy Minister. I think it was in 2005. Sothinathan's outburst in the Dewan Rakyat was about the de-recognition of the Crimea State Medical University (CSMU) medical degree. Mr. Sothinathan did not agree by the government decision, and stated his case in the parliament. But look at what he got. SUSPENDED! And this was the party president statement; "As a member of the government he should not have taken the stand to criticise the government. It is a breach of party discipline". There you go my friend "Hormat Kepada Orang Tua". A lot of other ministers condemned Sothinatan's actions, they say it was not appropriate, that he should have taken a more appropriate channel. They say he had "broken rank" (another word for melawan cakap) with the party leadership. But "Au Contraire" my lord, what more appropriate channel than the PARLIAMENT? Should he go to a corner, drape himself in a blanket and cry like a gelded donkey; an appropriate channel?

PUTRAJAYA, 24 Sept — It is inappropriate of Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department T. Murugiah to interfere in the affairs of another ministry, said Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar.

The home minister said Murugiah's action - in speaking on behalf of Seputeh Member of Parliament Teresa Kok on complaints she was not served proper meals while in detention under the Internal Security Act - was akin to being a spokesman for the opposition.

"What he has done is not right. I hope he knows how to look after his own turf. He should not interfere in another's affairs...that is not his work."

I say please don't desecrate a proverbial wisdom. Do you have to switch political alliance first before you can speak up for fellow human being? Do you just watch your friend drowning and not do anything because he is supporting Barisan Nasional while you are SAPP stalwart?

Pendekar

There's a story of a fearless "Pendekar" in a remote village in remote district known as "Kotoh Balat". This "Pendekar" earn his reputation for being a formidable fighter, he never once concede anything to any of his adversaries nor did he ever lose in any arguments. For he has a loud shrieky voice equivalent to a frog calling for rain to come down. He was gifted with a heavenly high-quality vocal cord and a larger than large larynx.

One loud clamor from him is enough to send any opponent down, silencing any protest from the floor. "Pendekar" used that to his advantage and once he led a political party known as ROOT (Revolutionary Otai Otai Tongok) - Don't ask me, I don't know what it symbolizes either. ROOT was considered as a splinter party, because it was formed by former members of a disrupted bigger party known as PDS (Party of Disjointed Shame).

Due to this "special quality", a gem rarely found in any other leader or in any other place but "Kotoh Balat". He was elected as a speaker in national legislative assembly of his country. This is a very clever strategy by the ruling party DN (Destruction National). Because this chap "Pendekar" is a Godsend. He can be manipulated and exploited for the sole benefit of the ruling government.

The ruling government is in a precarious position, because there's a looming threat from an emerging nemesis. The nemesis is set to take over the government at any time, he has exhausted all constitutional and legal avenue. One final avenue could be to call for an "emergency sitting" of the national legislative assembly. To explain to the country lawmakers about current dire situation, and why is it necessary to have complete overhauling of the current mediocre incompetent government, as soon as possible. Maybe to call a vote of no confidence on the ruling government and the decision could be made there and then, at the extraordinary sitting.

Yes he did just that, the nemesis sent a letter to the leader of the ruling government the NM (Nadir Minister). Among others the letter contains concern about issues in the country, worrying national and global economic downturn, and how the dangerous religious and racial disputes has been manipulated by certain ministers in the ruling government to boiling point. The "emergency sitting" would open way for a stubborn political impasse created mostly from denial syndrome suffered by those in the DN party.

But as usual, the NM dismissed all that as mere fancy. He said the nemesis was just day dreaming. The NM also complained that the sent letter is too lenghty and that he will need time to discern it. The people are not sure whether the NM is seriously intellectually challenged or he is just making excuses in delaying what the people see as an inevitable reform. Why? No... who on earth would call for a meeting that will probably lead to his own demise? Would you? No I will not. Strange? Yes the strategy of the nemesis is strange indeed, very odd.

To be fair to him, the nemesis has a point though. He said if the NM does not call for an emergency sitting of the national legislative assembly. It is tantamount to a deliberate attempt to undermine the sacred process of democracy in this country. An apparent dereliction of the law of the country by those in corridor of power. But again! Who would dare to call for a meeting that will decide his own death by a guillotine? Do you?

And Yes! As you might have already expect. The NM has another tool in his never-ending arsenal. Presenting our very own "Pendekar", hail from "Kotoh Balat", a last bastion for the ruling government. A reliable one at it, because "Pendekar" is the speaker of the national legislative assembly. With that he has some sort of vested power on him whether to call or delay any "emergency sitting". With his loud voice and burning charisma, HAHAHA who would dare deny his ruling?

"Pendekar" issued a statement regarding the nemesis request for an emergency sitting by saying ~Only the Nadir Minister can call for an emergency national legislative assembly session, and even then he needs to give a 14-day notice.~

14 Days may be too long to save the country from this dark episode.

Good Riddance to Bad Rubbish?

~The Sabah Progressive Party's (SAPP) withdrawal from the Barisan Nasional is a good thing as it was a problem within the coalition, said Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

... "Good riddance. They are a problem. It is okay, he (SAPP President Datuk Yong Teck Lee) is a trouble-maker, let him go", The Prime Minister said" (Extract from TheStar, Thursday 18 September 2008)

Above was the immediate response by our Prime Minister after SAPP opted out from Barisan Nasional. With that I feel that effectively all requests put forward by SAPP in the "Declaration of the People of Sabah for change in the country" have been dismissed as rubbish.

1. That the government shall be of the people and based on Good Governance and Civil Society and non-racial politics based on a progressive, just and harmonious society,

2. That Sabah shall have political autonomy whereby the government shall be formed and run by the people of Sabah,

3. That Sabah and other oil producing States shall be entitled to the petroleum royalty of 20%

4. That the Federal Territory of Labuan shall be returned to Sabah and governed as a special region,

5. That unfair and imprudent federal laws which have been extended to Sabah and federal departments and which are to the detriment of the State shall be reviewed,

6. That Sabah shall be given fair and just participation in the federal administration, the civil service and private sector, and that the federal departments in Sabah shall, as far as possible, be headed by local Malaysians,

7. That the federal government and the state governments shall put in sufficient resources, political will and leadership in solving the illegal immigrant problems in a firm but humane manner, with emphasis on regional concept and smart partnership,

8. That the federal and state governments shall together work on redressing the in-built structural imbalances in the economic and social structure of the country affecting Sabah and other states.

I am sure these declarations are the true wishes of the people of Sabah. Let's wait whether UPKO, PBRS and PBS also consider Sabahans wishes as a pile of rubbish.

Happy Birthday Malaysia

Today is the eve of Malaysia's birthday. On September 16th 1963, North Borneo (Sabah), Sarawak, Singapore and Malaya formed a federation. However Singapore pull out of the federation in 1965. Sabah was given independence by the British by "forming" Malaysia, together with the other three states. Note that I used the word "forming"! Purposely to affirm Sabah's position as "one of the three states" in Malaysia. This is clearly the original intention in the spirit of the federation, that somehow I think today has been harshly violated. As Tunku Abdul Rahman puts it;

~... One reaction in the Borneo territories was that the Malaysia concept was an attempt to colonise the Bornean territories. The answer to this was, as I said before, it is legally impossible for the federation to colonise because we desire that they should join us in the federation in equal partnership, enjoying the same status between one another...~ (Extract of speech by Tunku Abdul Rahman, Prime Minister of the Federation of Malaya, in the Federal parliament on 16 October 1961)

The facts have been distorted to the younger generations. So much so that today many Sabahans haven't got any clue of our "correct" history. Scholastic history syllabus did not include any reliable facts about Sabah's true position in Malaysia. Absolutely no mention about the "Twenty Points". The safeguards that our forefathers made to protect us the descendants of Nunuk Ragang, the offsprings of the Land Below the Wind, sons of Kinoringan. This mean that the younger generations were made to believe that "Sabah has achieved its Independence through Malaysia". That without Malaysia we will forever be clutched under colonialism.

Bear in mind that Sabah achieved its independence on 31st August 1963, prior to forming Malaysia. Therefore North Borneo has already been given independence even before Malaysia was realized. It was known that British government was all for granting Independence to Sabah. But since the local people, at that time were mostly backward in literacy and education, constitutionally incompetent and unable to achieve self-governance. Therefore the British thought it would be ideal to precipitate Independence with the formation of Malaysia. As evidently noted in the following passage.

~... The declared aim of the British Government is to grant independence to all its colonial territories as soon as they are ready for it. Hitherto this has been thought as simply as independence for North Borneo standing by itself or, more recently, in association with Sarawak.~

~... It is the view of the British Government that, provided satisfactory terms of merger can be worked out, the plan for Malaysia offers the best chance of fulfilling its responsibility to guide the Borneo territories to self-government in condition that will secure them against dangers from any quarter.~

(Extract from "North Borneo and Malaysia" published by Authority of the Government of North Borneo, Jesselton, February 1962)

As a responsible younger generation, we need to ask questions regarding our rights in Malaysia. What was the Sabah leader's understanding of the term Independence? Does self-government and self-determination carry the same meaning today as they did then? Is Sabah mere one of fourteen States in Malaysia, or are we one out of three states in Malaysia? What about our current status? What are the original intentions of the federation? Did we merge with Malaya or have we been assimilated into Malaya?

On this eve of Malaysia's 45th birthday. Let us stand firm and be counted, let us together enlighten the younger generations of the true meaning of our indepedence. We must not let our guard down, the "Twenty Points" must be upheld with greatest respect. This mean that the federal treatment of Sabah and Sarawak, must necessarily be different from the other States in the Peninsular, if the rights of Sabahans and Sarawakians were to be respected.

Happy 45th Birthday Malaysia. Kinoringan is watching!

ISA for the Fools

Clashes of opinion between followers of different religions are getting more and more dangerous these days. Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi even threatened anyone who speak racist remark with a much-feared detention without trial under the ISA (Internal Security Act). Abdullah's spoke of a need to safeguard nation from racial conflicts, and the ISA is one handy tool for him to do just that. Detain anyone who is potentially a threat to Malaysia racial unity, and "everything will be just fine". Superficially!

Compounded by a controversial racist remark that came from the big mouth of the UMNO Bukit Bendera Division Chief. Very much flurry of slurs were exchanged after that, particularly between Datuk Ahmad Ismail and Tan Sri Dr. Koh Tsu Khoon, and guess what! MCA Perak was also in the skirmish, playing along a racial overtone that they have long ago abandoned! Only after March 8 General Election, MCA suddenly realizes their mistakes and starts to make noise in a matter especially this. Matter which involves the Chinese community. Though it seems a bit too late. But I maybe wrong.

In the middle of teetering racial tension, danger lurks and just waiting for something, someone or any event that will lead to a catastrophic chaos in Malaysia. It could well be in the form of a stupid high-ranking racist leader. And God Forbid, one tragedy followed by a sequence of unfortunate events will lead to something unimaginable. We don't want that to happen here in Malaysia. We have long been living harmoniously with each other for as long as we can remember. Well it is at least true to Sabahans. We never had that kind of racial tension in Sabah. The people are extremely tolerant toward each other. That's the recipe that people in Malaya should learn from us Sabahans.

I think as Sabahans you should have experience this so-called "Muhibbah". In any occasion. Be it a wedding reception, a birthday party, chinese new year, kaamatan, hari raya, or even a burial service. There will be muslims and non muslims attending. Foods are spread for everyone regardless of faiths. Of course with certain degree of respect, the food for Muslim and Non-Muslim are laid in separate tables. Definitely no "haram" food or beverages on the muslim's side. No sweat, we understood that. Despite that, Sabahans of different religions and faiths are still able to mingle and share whatever they have among each other. No issues of sharing plates, fork and spoons. Not even an issue for sharing water from a cup or bottle that was half-consumed by a friend of different religion. I believe small gestures like these foster strong harmonious relation between different races and religions. This hardly happen anywhere in Peninsular Malaysia, though racial conflict has so far successfully been put in check.

But hold on to your seat! Last night TV3 brought about a news report about a horrific religious conflict that happened in Tanzania, Africa. If Im not mistaken, it was in 1998. Fuck! I didn't really pay attention to the newscaster. I just gasped in horror, unable to comprehend the stupid, foolish, brainless thick skull TV3 Buletin Utama producer. The recollection started with a statistic telling the percentage of Muslim in the African continent. 41% percent Muslims make up the second largest religion after the christians. Then came gory images of people scattered on the street, bleeding, shot and dead. TV3 reported the mass murders occurred in front of a mosque after a prayer. Coupled with provocative commentaries such as the massacre was done by christians, reportedly angered after an Imam delivered a sermon that says "Jesus is not the son of God". How the freedom of religion for the muslim was denied in Tanzania and all other rhetorics about unfair treatments by the christians.

The news will definitely put the christians in bad light, don't you think? Do you think it's good for racial harmony here in Malaysia? Do you think the muslim and non-muslim can learn something out of it? No no no it is really unwise for TV3 to show this kind of program. I was angry, because the images shown were utterly nerve-racking, explicit. And I think it can somehow irritate the muslims. It can influence those who are narrow minded muslim and non-muslim alike. It can fan racial sentiments to inferno. One which could escalate into crisis proportion. Rubbing salt into the wound was what TV3 have done so far. Since March 8 general election TV3 have consistently belaboured on racism, many questionable and dubious content were fed to the people. A lot of news that could develop racial tension were broadcasted irresponsibly. Another example was the demonstration by the Malays in Penang Komtar building. Soon after Lim Guan Eng announced a measure which is against the NEP (New Economic Policy).

Moreover the report about Tanzania may be wryly skewed to one side. It may not be accurate based on true events. I think only the Tanzanians can judge, on who is right and who is wrong. They were the ones who experienced the conflict first hand. How can a Malaysian be the judge? How does TV3 got its fact right? Isn't this tantamount to meddling into another country internal affair? Our ministers will certainly go berserk if a Singapore TV station to report something of this sort happening here in Malaysia. They will say Don't Meddle into our Internal Affair! We have Our Rule Of Law! Mind your Own Business! Jangan Kacau Malaysia! Jagalah Tepi Kain Sendiri!

How can they broadcast this provocative story? What is their intention? Do they have ulterior motives? Or are they just plainly stupid morons? May I suggest Abdullah to exercise his handy ISA to the producer of Buletin Utama and the Management of TV3. And to all folks, from now on, please shun TV3 Buletin Utama, for a better Malaysia.

Of Squatters and Study Trip

Datuk Ahmad Ismail chief of Bukit Bendera UMNO Division has been heavily criticised on his remark "Chinese are squatters in Malaysia". He however said that his speech had been unfairly reported, and that the essence of his speech has been misconstrued by the reporter. What he meant by "squatters" were referring to the chinese in Malaya, before independence. Fair enough! He had the chance but he blew it. How many pre-independence Chinese are still alive today? Can I call them pre-independence "squatters"? Did he know many Chinese have been staying in Malaysia since 1700s, probably earlier. Are they "squatters" too?

Datuk Ahmad Ismail had call for press conferences. Sadly in every event, he refused to apologize, and continued on with all his racist stands. He in turn diverted the whole issue towards the reporter of a vernacular newspaper and to the disgruntled chinese based parties in Barisan Nasional. One that is worst hit by Ahmad Ismail's statement is the leader of Gerakan, Tan Sri Dr. Koh Tsu Khoon.

Dr. Koh's photo was torn to pieces by UMNO's supporters during a press conference. In an act of defiance Ahmad Ismail urged Barisan Nasional leadership to eject Gerakan from the ruling coalition. This make Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi fuming with anger. Abdullah promised to summon Ahmad to meet him and Najib today, to get an explanation from him. Before making any decision on actions to be taken against Ahmad.

In another event. Barisan Nasional MPs were flown to Taiwan yesterday in what was purportedly claimed to be a study trip. However the timing and the haste in organizing the trip make it vividly doubtful. Bung Mokhtar who act as a spokeperson for the group told the media that the trip is not politically motivated. He said the trip is organized not because of fear for September 16th, the date on which Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim claim to be a Prime Minister.

The trip was first said to be planned in China, but due to certain circumstances, particularly a delay in obtaining visa, prompted them to change the location to Taiwan. I think for something of this scale, mind you 50MPs to go on an agricultural study visit, it is absurd to change the destination at the last minute. Very odd indeed. China and Taiwan are like Elephant and Pig. What you can learn in both countries should be completely different. An ambitious study trip of this scale should be precedented by proper planning, outlining the area to be visited, coupled with future agricultural direction in Malaysia. Only then we the taxpayers will be satisfied, we will be convinced that somehow the benefit will be accrued to us. Only then we can be hopeful that the visit will bear fruit for us Malaysians. Otherwise, we will think that the trip is a total waste of taxpayers money.

Yes the ministers said the trip is personally funded by each and every MPs. But still their money, their salary, their funds allocated in each constituency are the taxpayers money. We voted them into office to serve the people, but instead they go for a hastily planned agricultural study trip. What a nonsense!

Sad to say Barisan Nasional is showing signs of nearing its demise.

#11 Tariff and Finance

"North Borneo should have control of its own finance, development funds and tariffs"

This is point number #11 as agreed by the parties involved during the formation of the federation of Malaysia. The signatories of the 20 points memorandum were United National Kadazan Organization led by Donald A. Stephens, United Sabah National Organization led by Datu Mustapha, United Party headed by Khoo Siak Chew, Democratic Party steered by Lee Yun Hing, and National Pasok Momogun Organization headed by O.K.K Ansim Dulau.

Point number 11 of the twenty points is to safeguard North Borneo from unfair distribution of wealths. It is to ensure North Borneo will reap the benefit from its own natural resources, and not to allow the federal government siphoning off of what is rightfully ours. It was clearly foreseeable that Sabah should be allowed to manage its own funds. For I think collection of taxes, personal and corporate income taxes, export and import duties, petroleum royalty, etc. should be under the jurisdiction of the Sabah autonomous region, not run by the federal government as what is happening now.

Looking at the current statistics, the collection of taxes, duties, etc. are directly under the provision of the federal government. And it is further severed by the State's share of 5% of the oil revenue. It is too small. Each and every Sabahan must have asked the question at least once in their lifetime. Who gave away the 95% oil revenue to the federal government? When did it happen?

The truth behind the 5% royalty agreement has continued to baffle many of us. We heard and we could only guess that previous Chief Ministers such as Tun Mustapha and Tun Fuad had consistently refused to sign the Petroleum Sharing Agreement. Indicating their unwillingness to give up the State's oil right. Rumor has it that Datuk Haris Salleh was the one who signed away the agreement. And now he attended SAPP convention on Sabah issues and ostensibly portray himself as innocent? Still it didn't justify the validity of the agreement, for the former Chief Minister Signature alone does not constitute approval of the people of Sabah.

As a responsible Sabahans and also Malaysians. For the right of Sabah as one of the three partners in the federation of Malaysia. And for ensuring continuous improvement to the federal and state relation. We would like to ask about the details of the INFLOW vs OUTFLOW of money to and from Sabah. Did Federal Government collected more than what they spent in Sabah? Is Sabah continuously supplying net OUTFLOW of money to the federal government?

Media - Medium of Thoughts

"Topinai Ko Ngaavi... Kopisanangan om kosuabon..... Islam Hadhari, Islam Woyoon Tokou"

English: Dear Friends... Good Morning..... Islam Hadhari, is the Islam that we worship"

Bahasa: Saudara Sekalian... Selamat Pagi..... Islam Hadhari, Islam yang kita Ikuti"

I heard the line above while listening to a Sabah's Kadazan Dusun radio program. It was said by supposedly a muslim Dusun newsreader. He said that in a-matter-of-factly tone before continuing with the news of the day. I don't know about you, but this certainly raise my eyebrow. But the others who were with me listening to the radio didn't notice anything unusual, it's oblivious, until I pointed it out to them.

For the folks in remote villages, radio is their only source of information. For catching up on news, gossips, and entertainment. Save for a handful of educated and informed bunch, there should be significant portion of the Kampung folks who will believe entirely on what's aired on radio. Even for those who have a heart of stone, what is being fed unto you daily through media may somehow seeps into your brain, subconsciously.

Do you know why great athletes always seen speaking to themselves before they start an event? It's a motivational way to tell themselves that it can be done, no obstacles are too great, and if practiced often enough, it could lead to them winning. This self motivation is crucial to divide the boys from the men. It can either injected into you by yourself, or it can be slowly given to you by others, from what you see, touch, smell, sense and of course on what you "listen".

Our being is divided into two parts, the conscious and the subconscious. Just like a floating iceberg, only 10% of our being is conscious. While the remaining 90% is governed by the subconscious. Just like when you are driving a car, if you are a seasoned driver that is; you would do gear shifting subconsciously, sometimes you don't even think much about it, when negotiating a corner or climbing a steep slope, all are done systematically without you even need to think about it consciously.

But do you remember how was it when you first drive a car? It's very difficult to divide our attention, between the brakes, the clutch, gear, accelerator, rear view mirror, side mirror, etc. Do you remember how you wish you have brought along the big wardrobe mirror in your bedroom to be put into the car? I did, because all the mirrors seem inadequate when I first tried a reverse parking.

Whatever stuffs that we listen, will be subconsciously processed into our brain, and if you are not strong enough in consciously filtering what goes in to your subconscious realm, then you are in for a ride. Because what you listen will become your thoughts. The thoughts in turn will become you actions. Actions become habits. Habits become Characters. And Characters become your Destiny. Got it?

Back to the radio program. It started with couple of announcements regarding the fasting month for the muslim. Its meaning to the worshipers, what rituals to perform during fasting, what to avoid, and what to do. Followed by announcements about the time for breaking of fast, for each and every constituency in Sabah. Ok, they are fine, it's good to keep the people informed, so that the worshipers can plan ahead their daily activities. And the non-muslim also have a chance to organize functions attended by the muslim, perhaps after the breaking of fast.

Some may argue that Islam is the official religion, therefore RTM (Radio Televisyen Malaysia) have automatic right to air whatever they want. Yes Islam is the official religion of Malaysia and I have no problem with that. But may I suggest that some part of christian prayer and Taoist, Buddhist, Hindu, the Bobolian Magavau, etc. Also to be aired at the same time. What if at the end of the prayer, the reader said something like this "Topinai Ko Ngaavi... Kopisanangan om kosuabon..... Kristian Katolik, Kristian Woyoon Tokou" or this "Nung Haro Nga Kesalahan Dau, Moi do Tanud id Bobolian Mongidu do Dusa Kio, Blessed be Kinoringan". What would happen?

My suggestion above may not be relevant in the peninsula, but in Sabah it is truly acceptable. Think about it, majority of the Kadazan Dusuns are christian, yes maybe some are still sticking to animism. Pardon me but is it right to call the animists as pagan? The voice of the majority shall be heard over the media. Not the minority amongst the majority. Though I still have no problem with it, because Islam the official religion in Malaysia, provided the radio also airs program about other religions. Then it is fair, Isn't it?

If you ask the minority to respect the sensitivity of the official religion, the minority in return shall get the same respect.

What do you think?

Syabas Patrick Sindu, Syabas Eric Majimbun

The Consumer Association of Sabah and Labuan (Cash) called for review of the Malaysia Agreement by a Royal Commission of Inquiry as well as a referendum on the review. Its President, Datuk Patrick Sindu in a statement Monday called for the referendum provided the electoral rolls are cleansed of all "project IC" holders.

In another development, Eric Majimbun has called for a CONVENTION ON SABAH ISSUES to be held in Kota Kinabalu on August 30, from 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm. He said the current political development in the country had prompted SAPP to organize this convention.

The convention is a follow up to a Special Committee chaired by Majimbun which was set for the purpose of collecting, compiling and analyzing issues submitted by the people.

We feel it is important during this critical period for the people to re-connect with the history of Sabah's independence, the position of Sabah as a state within the Federation of Malaysia as well as the current economic condition of the State

I see this as a first step in restoring Sabah's sovereignity as a partner in the federation of Malaysia. We have long been regarded simply as one of the fourteen stripes in Jalur Gemilang, the Malaysian flag. To put it straight! We are not one of fourteen, We are one of three partners in Malaysia.

Patrcik Sindu and Eric Majimbun can be sure of support from all Sabahans. We are behind any move, big or small, in restoring the original twenty points agreement during the formation of Malaysia. We love Malaysia, it's just the way we were unfairly treated, by the running government which made it severely unfair for Sabah.

It's a little disappointing that only now these leaders have got the audacity to speak. In the midst of change, perhaps after Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim won the election in Permatang Pauh last night. Nonetheless, I still support them.

Syabas Patrick, Eric. Syabas Inspektor Sahap, Vah Raja Vah... You are our Sivaji the Boss.

Are we Independent?

Past pre-independence heroes sure had taught us many things, they were the ones who fought for our country's independence. Yes, we can learn a lot from our history. The Malaysian heroes, how they started a revolution, how they carried on and eventually emerged as victors. Later immortalized in our Malaysian school history books. Though questionably most of the stories that are told in our textbooks were, may I say Malayan heroes rather than Malaysians.

For one we are taught that the price of independence was not cheap. It takes sheer grit, tenacity and lots of guts to achieve independence. To be free from those who robbed us of our land, of our freedom. To rule the land ourselves, not to be dependent to others, and to protect our women and children from intruders who are 'not like us'.

In pre-independence Malaya it was to get out from the colonial British rule. Because the British, they are 'not like us', they are white we are brown. They are christians while we are muslim, buddhist, hindus, pagans, etc, though they were already colonies of Christians in certain places. They wear silly coat but we wear songkok and baju melayu and some other traditional attires. They use toilet paper but we use left hands and water to clean our ass after pooping, that is at least true to some of us.

Most of what we know about these past heroes came from the school history books. We have been taught of the likes of Tokku Paloh, Tok Janggut, Abdul Rahman Limbong, Tok Gajah, Mat Kilau and Dato Bahaman. These Malay heroes started revolutions against the British, fought for justice they say. Mentioned quite inconspicuously in the textbooks, but one worth mentioning is Mat Salleh. He was 'different' from the rest because he is "Sabahan".

That's right Mat Salleh is Sabahan, similarly fought against the British in Sabah. Please remember, he fought the British before Sabah merged into Malaysia. Mat Salleh, a prominent hero in history, known to have special power, and his body was said to be impenetrable by bullets. Mat Salleh is and epitome of a Great Sabahan, I think he deserves greater respects than just a couple of references in the textbooks, and a sorry looking memorial in interior Tambunan.

Yesterday, I saw a movie about Mat Kilau on TV. In one part he said his fight against the British was to force the British to leave Malaya, as they 'are different'. Mat Kilau also quoted in the movie that the British are stealing from the Malayans, and robbing the Malay to enrich themselves. The fight against the British was to uphold local religion, race and the country. Since the fight was in pre-independence Malaya, therefore I think Mat Kilau's fight was for Islam, Malay and Malaya.

Malaya was blessed with natural resources such as gold, tin("Bijih Timah"), rubbers, etc. The British were taking all these wealth back to their own country while the Malays were continuously denied of their rights. Kringgg!!!! Now Do you hear a bell ringing? Is this happening in our own backyard? Do you know that Sabah and Sarawak are main contributors to oil production in Malaysia? Mind you, Sabah is also a major producer of Malaysia palm oil exports. And do you know where do the money goes?

So cruel was the British to the Malays. They came, they saw, they conquered and they continue to squezee every drop of wealth out of Malaya. And that reason had ultimately motivated the fighters to revolt and subvert against the colonialist. And I don't know whether it's a sheer coincidence, or perhaps just a plain joke; that in colloquial Malay, the "Whites" are called "Mat Salleh" regardless of whether thay are British or not.

Now this raised another question! Since the Malay historically hated the British, or the Whites, or in other word the "Mat Salleh". Is there any implicit meaning in that namesake? Does "Mat Salleh" translates to Sabahan too?

Phew!!! I divert, now back to the original topic. Are we Independent? And why we want it so much? It is like a coveted prize sought after by any community in the world. More so for a community which is ruled by others who are 'not like them'.

If it happens that a community is led by someone who 'is different' racially, culturally and religiously. That will make every member of that community to start to question the leader's eligibility to lead them. Why was he elected? Would he converts us all into his belief? Will our culture and religion diminish through his differing opinions? Will he dilutes our culture and institutionalize his culture upon us?

Worries of being racially, religiously and culturally persecuted do have credential. Because there is no guarantee that the elected 'different' leader will not flex his power to convert the nation out of his own free whims.

Being in a position of power will make it easy for him to proselytize his belief, which 'is different' from the belief of the people under his reign. And it has historic credibility too, since we know that Christianity flourished in Europe, started because one of the Emperors embraced christianity.

I don't quite remember the Emperor's name and country though. Was it Constantine Emperor of Rome? Do you remember? Nevertheless, what evident was that since then, the proliferation of christianity got into higher gear and the rest is history. I am sure other religions also share similar story with the Christians.

It's commonplace that whenever there's a group of people embracing a common understanding, culture, race and religion. Then there'll be a conscience in each and everyone member in the community, the urge to ordain a leader elected from amongst them. One who aspires to champion their race, culture and religion.

One that will not deny whatever their clerics or religious gurus say. One 'among them', 'think like them', 'speak like them', 'laugh like them', aspire to multiply their numbers 'exponentially' in a 'shortest time possible', even if it means converting the others who are 'not like them'. And of course pray to the 'same god like them'.

The above characteristics alone will still not be enough, it is not easy to be a leader to them, the leader must also not have any alliances with those who 'are different' from them. Because it is possible that the leader might be an agent planted by the others to weaken them, he might 'sold them out' to the others who are 'not like them'.

For the people in the community, the abhorrence and the urge to topple and replace that 'different' leader will be paramount, notwithstanding that the leader is actually one of them. They will seek and consult any religious figure among them, flip through religious verses, burning hundreds of jars of oil for light to study archaic scripts, with one objective, which is to find fault in the 'different' leader.

By all means to bring the leader down, with religious and cultural hatred, sometimes it will cross along racial lines as well. The scholars in the community will start to incite racial and religious hatred, they will pour gasoline into a subtle fire until the leader is expelled out by his own people. Racial harmony will be the last thing they want, as long as the possible 'different' leader does not succeed in his quest to be a leader.

In Malaysia though, we do and we still have a choice. To continue on with this historically mired racist sentiment and narrow-mindedness or to prove the history wrong and we can chart our own destiny to a better Malaysia. To the question of Are we Independent? The answer is No! we are not independent yet if racism and religious persecution are what we see happening right before our eyes.

Signs of Desperation

Yesterday August 21st, at about 8:15am, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi took an LRT ride from Serdang Station to Masjid Jamek Station. The report in major newspapers stated that he was alone in the act. And yes no officially dressed escorts, no silly coat-draped officials under scorching Malaysian sun.



If you look closely though, there could be his bodyguards in the background. After all, sure he needs protection from possible danger. And I wonder how many reporters he brought along. Come on lah! Of course he wants to make sure this simple act published all over the media, particularly around Permatang Pauh.

Take note that in The Star paper, the heading of the report is "PM quietly takes public transport to experience commuters’ problems". Now, Im asking you. Do you think he was spontaneous in this act? Do you think he woke up in the morning, suddenly feeling itchy in the *tut* to ride the LRT? And By series of miraculous coincidences, that all the reporters also rode on the same tube, giving them golden opportunity to snap pictures? No it's silly! Someone had directly or indirectly could have invited reporters to snap pictures while he was 'seen' jostling in the sardin-packed LRT tube.

Poor commuters, they must have loathed the presence of the Prime Minister, his bodyguards and reporters in the LRT. Moreover the reporters must have brought along many equipments, lighting and bulky SLR camera, with elongated lenses. The lenses could have accidentally poked some unsuspecting commuters in the train, while reporters were getting the best position to take best pictures of the prime minister, in what looks like a frown isn't it?

Malaysia mainstream media, as you knew it, after this will start to pour out overused banal cliches such as "Berjiwa Rakyat", "Turun Padang", "Berhati Rakyat", "Berkenan Melihat Masalah Rakyat", "Memahami Masalah Rakyat", "Prihatin", etc. Seriously all these overused cliches make me wanna poop! They are commonly used in Malaysia, during ordination of a leader or any dignitary of state.

If Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is seriously Berjiwa Rakyat, then why only now he do this? When we know that next tuesday is the election day for Permatang Pauh, when we know that the result of the election will be a turning point, that will lead to either glory or debacle for Barisan Nasional.

Nowadays Barisan Nasional have shown Many sign of desperations, SOS. Almost immediately after the March 8 general election. Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi went to Sabah, supposedly to respond to calls for greater recognition for Sabahans MP in national politic. He brought along goodie bags full of candies for Sabahans. Do you still remember what he announced during the visit?

RM 1 billion special allocation for Sabah, monetary allocation for assemblyman and MPs, Borneonisation of Sabah civil service, Forming of Cabinet Committee On Illegal Immigrants, the scrap of the Sabah Federal Development Department, appointment of Sabah-born Professor Datuk Kamaruzaman Ampong as the new vice-chancellor of Universiti Malaysia Sabah, and 300MW (Megawatt) power station would be built in Kimanis, Papar.

Also a panel, jointly chaired by the state secretary and Sabah Federal Secretary, had been set up to streamline functions said to be overlapping with the federal and state agencies. And “Focus Group” on poverty established by the government in efforts to wipe out abject poverty and reduce poverty rate would focus on poverty eradication in Sabah and Sarawak.

Can anyone tell me how many promises were made? I am lazy to count lah. How many have been implemented? By "implemented" I mean completely done, proper execution and follow-up, not only by one, two or three cases. Like in the Borneonisation topic. What about the RM 1 billion? Where did they spent the money on? Any improvement on the rakyat? On what stuffs did the assemblymen and MPs used the monetary allocation on? Can anyone tell us? Can anyone give a statistic on the spending?

Does anyone remember how many panels, special group, task force, board, committees, commission, working group, focus group, etc.. have been promised by Barisan Nasional? Not from 1957, because that would be uncountable weren't they? But beginning from March 8, 2008 until today. How many? Can you count?

To Datuk Seri, we dare you to take a ride from Kuala Penyu to Sandakan to Kinabatangan in Sabah. Take the mini bus please, use small sampan to reach remote area along the Kinabatangan river. And please no reporters and no bodyguards, see if you can survive.

Balik Susah, Lari pun Susah

Malaysian Bar Council drama continued on until this week, and I believe for more weeks to come. Mind you, the issue will stick on for generations to come. Because Malaysian ministers had called upon a stop to any open forum that touches on religion. Prime Minister himself had urged everyone to stop from discussing the issue.

In other word, the conversion "to" Islam issue will always be kept bottled, swept under the carpet to maintain racial and religious harmony in Malaysia. But I personally think it is a grave mistake to stop the discussions, because religion and racial issues can only be resolved through open discourse and public understanding. God willing, through open forum, we will thrive and cherish our diversity instead of eternally mired in religous disputes.

If it is to be kept bottled, I think that there will be a time when all the issues will explode into crisis proportions. When the downtrodden and the oppressed had had enough, when any attempt to subdue the shits from coming out from the shithole will fail. And we will be doomed, drowned in the sea of shits that we've been covering for a long long time.

As what Datuk Zahid Hamidi puts it, discussions can be done behind closed door. The complainants, the government and the courts will have to settle any conversion issues amicably hidden from the media, solid curtain to block the discussions from the ever anxious public. I wonder what kind of clandestine settlements would satisfy all the parties involved?

I think the so-called "settlement" behind closed-door is to keep the angry public from knowing, and to maybe, remember "just maybe" to bend a few religious rules, to cut corner here and there to suit our multicultural and multi-ethnic backgrounds and sensitivities, or perhaps compensations also on the card.

At this juncture, I am wondering whether this or that religion actually allows such covert discussions and of course also the bending of rules to be done. Do they?

Because if the religion do permit bending of rules, then it wouldn't be that divine anymore isn't it? What written in the books are sacred and believed to be uttered directly from God. Be it the holy book of the christians, hindus, muslims, etc. God didn't say that you can make exception here and there, that this case is special because the accused or accuser is a king.

No, it's not like that. If you believe in God, what is written must be fully followed, and blindly at times. Whatever the closed door settlements may be, even if it is meant to assuage the families involved, and also to keep the radical public from knowing. It is probably religiously or conscientiously wrong. Most probably a gravely wrong sin as well.

As Sabahan, I think majority of the Non-Muslims in Sabah backed the open forum as a viable route to settle conversion issues once and for all. Because in Sabah, the religious composition is much more baffling, sometimes you will find members of a family professing different religions.

Go and ask any of your Sabahan friends, they will tell you "O ya my aunt is a muslim, her son is a catholic though, and her ex-husband now is a protestant". For example my friend who is from Ranau, he is professing SIB Christian, his mom is a muslim, because she was married to an imam. She separated from the imam and married a catholic, and now she considered herself a non-muslim. She has five children in her first marriage with the imam, and the eldest is now a SIB church leader in one of the village.

Confusing isn't it? Well, it's not uncommon in Sabah, thanks to the previous leaders mass conversion policies in the 80's. They successfully make Sabah as one hell of a religions melting pot. And yes, conversion issues are prominent in Sabah.

There's no denying that cases such as Subashini's are happening in Sabah, and Sabahans must have felt equally threatened too when the Bar Council forum was abruptly ended, when some so-called defender of a religion barged in.

There were calls for certain 'Pig to Return to China' or 'Babi Balik Cina'. Now it doesn't take a rocket scientist to think that what they meant was to urge the forum organizers, and panelists to go back to their own country for good. And Not to stir the religious sentiment of the majority.

For Sabahans who support such an open forum, me included, it's a bit bewildering. Because that calls to Return to China should take effect on us as well. The thing is we came from Sabah, therefore we cannot Balik Cina. We have nothing there. We can go back to where we originated from, to Sabah. But we are already in Sabah, then where to "Balik"?

If we could not balik, then we should "Jalan", but where to "Jalan"? We cannot run away from Sabah either. Actually the actions of about 300 demonstrators during the forum had successfuly put us in a quandary. Perhaps we should "Lari" or "Keluar".

What we want is to find solution acceptable to everybody, and please not to suppress. PAS calls that Muzakarah or Muqabalah, to talk, not to flex muscle. Tell me, Is barging into one's forum is in the spirit of muqabalah or muzakarah?

To Kill a Mocking Bird - Saiful's Cornered

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was charged yesterday in a session court. Apparently as a replacement for the AG. The Solicitor General Datuk Idris Harun found enough evidence to charge Anwar.

Datuk Idris Harun is replacing his Boss, the Attorney General Datuk Gani Patail. Because Gani Patail himself is implicated with another case involving Anwar. Which is the fabrication of evidence in the 1998 sodomy trial. Anwar filed the charge against him and the IGP Musa Hassan. Do you think the Solicitor General truly act on his own Accord while his boss, the AG is around?

"Anwar was charged under Section 377B of the Penal Code, which his lawyers said referred to consensual sodomy". Now if it is true that Anwar is brought to court for having anal sex consensually with Saiful, then why Saiful is not similarly charge by committing the same crime?

It's common sense, Saiful is evidently an accomplice, a partner in crime! By having consensual unnatural sex with Anwar. An accomplice is liable to be punished under the same law in which his partner committed, though maybe with a lighter sentence.

"Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan is not being charged with sodomy because he is the complainant, Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar said."

"When a person is the reporter of an alleged offence, if you charge the person, he will feel he is not protected," Syed Hamid said.

He stressed that Anwar is innocent until proven guilty. - Source NST

Let's just say, you and I committed a crime. You brought down a mocking bird with a slingshot. The bird was injured, unable to fly, then I jumped and strangled the mocking bird to its death. I am the killer of a mocking bird, and you are the accomplice by assisting in the murder.

Off you went to a nearby police station, lodged a report that I killed a mocking bird. During trial in a mocking bird court, I was charged of a heinous crime. And you were freed, because you are the complainant. Is it fair for me?

It's even more sinister, if indeed the mocking bird is still alive. No case.

The Verdict - I Hit Jackpot

Last night I waited for the SAPP news. To my Dismay, Nothing, Nada, no news about SAPP in TV3. This morning I scour the net and finally found the verdict.

The result! Well my prediction result number 3 came true, wooohoooo.... What did I tell you? I wrote in my posting yesterday that Abdullah will need time to read SAPP reply to show cause letter, and another more time to understand the plain vanilla english or malay.

Perhaps, BN council can get help from primary six student, explain to him what Datuk Yong Teck Lee meant. No need to read between the lines and try to be ostensibly academic to the rakyat. Rakyat want decision, same goes to reduction of fuel price... AS always the BN government will need to study first, wait for full report. F**K!

This is the reaction from SAPP.

Responding to the PM announcement after the BN Supreme Council meeting today in Kuala Lumpur that BN needs to study in detail the answer given by SAPP before making any decision:

1. The SAPP 3-paragraph reply to the BN show cause letter was so simple and clear because it was a mere reiteration of SAPP¡¯s loss of confidence on the PM announced on June 18 and endorsed by the Supreme Council on June 20. What is so complicated that the BN needs to study in detail? Surely, the PM was stingy with the truth by saying that they (BN) needs to study the SAPP letter in detail.

2. In fact, we are totally disappointed that the BN leadership has again put off a key decision affecting Sabah just in order for them to finish a by-election campaign (Permatang Pauh) first. It shows that the BN has put their political interests above that of the people in Sabah.

3. We will forge ahead with greater force and unity in pursuit of our struggle for the people based on the our Declaration of eight points, to fight against the ¡°taxflation¡± and rapid rise in costs of living which has caused hardship to the people.

Issued by SAPP HQ

SAPP fate today

Barisan Nasional Supreme Council is to decide on the fate of SAPP in the coalition today. The BN lowly council is having a meeting, and come out with a decision.

I think the decision could be one of these;

1. SAPP expelled - This will not happen. BN Council with their littlest brain will not do this. But then if it happen, All glory be to SAPP.

2. Another Show Cause Letter - On why SAPP did not retract their stands. And there'll be a third show cause letter, if SAPP still persist. And the the fourth, fifth, sixth... BN Council will keep deferring decision until Datuk Yong Teck Lee tummy is full with money.

3. BN Council will have to study first and then make decision. As usual, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will tell the media that he has not seen the reply letter from SAPP. And that he will need time to read the letter, another more time to understand the message. It can easily dragged to 2 -3 months until he has ample time to bribe the rakyat with his goodies in the budget tabling, scheduled to be at the end of august.

Let's just wait and see.

TV3 - Buletin Utama Early Edition

Have you seen the TV series Early Edition? It's about a guy with a special ability to read about tomorrow's news. The papers were delivered to his doorstep by some mysterious figure.

He will be able to know early of what's going to happen tomorrow. Then he would set out on a rescue mission to save anyone who are predicted to die tomorrow, today.

What would you do? To be honest I would first read from the backpages and look for the winning numbers.

Anyway, I digress.. Today though I want to try my luck on prediction. This morning I read a news piece about how a lady reporter being assaulted by PKR Security personnel, in one of PKR political Ceramahs in Seberang Jaya Penang.

It was really unfortunate, a hapless female reporter was assaulted by PKR supporters. Nobody should assault another human being, more so if it's a she, by a group of men.

TV3, Being the Main Stream Bloody Media and all that. I want to predict that this shocking news will be the main topic in TV3 Buletin Utama tonight. I bet it will take at least ten minutes of the time.



Headline - PKR Samseng Assaulted a Female Reporter.

There will be comments from PM, DPM, or other ministers. To show to Malaysians, how bad the PR people are, and that there is no reason to vote for PR. That PR is just a bunch of Samseng Jalanan, Street Thugs.

As far as I can remember, there had been three cases that gave bad reputation to PR. One when Kelana Jaya MP Loh Gwo Burne was fisted by fellow PKR boy. Two when one rock star, read bandit, ehem... loosened his trouser and showed his bum to the crowd during PROTES rally in Stadium MPPJ, Kelana Jaya.

And this case here is number three. I wonder whether these moles were planted by someone with purpose.

Let's see whether my prediction materialized tonight.

Pairin Kitingan - What Next?

Parti Bersatu Sabah (PBS) president Datuk Seri Joseph Pairin Kitingan had been asked by the party's divisional chief for Kiulu Sindin Ranggangon to step down from the post which he had held since the party's formation 23 years ago.

"Pairin's leadership is no longer effective because he practised favouritism and had failed to take into consideration the people's sensitivity," Sindin said, adding that this was the general consensus among the Kiulu division committee and party's members during a meeting recently.

I agree to all Mr. Ranggangon statements but one. This;

"He said the most appropriate leader to take over from Pairin has to be Deputy President Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili."

Maximus Ongkili is no better. He is not capable lah! He is a Science, Technology and Innovation Minister. We know that Sabahans are mostly unhappy because of PBS indifference to the current political conflicts.

Go on and ask any level-headed "informed" Sabahans, majority are unhappy. All of them find relevance in Datuk Yong Teck Lee vote of no confidence against the Prime Minister. Yet PBS still play deaf.

Maximus will never cross the line! He will never be critical towards the government policy. Afraid of losing his job lah tu,. For that matter, he is NOT a right candidate for PBS president.

It appears that PBS is on shaky ground. Former PBS supreme council member, Dr. Chong Eng Leong had already quit the party. So what is next Pairin?

Syed Hamid: Government won’t ask cops to drop case

Could this be right? It couldn't be that police get orders from the government, acts only when there's order. Drop a criminal case on order from the government?

This is absurd, a bit perplexing. I wrote this many times; the government is run by Barisan Nasional, simply because they won in the general election. Barisan Nasional is led by UMNO. Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister are the president and Deputy president of UMNO.

Prime Minister command the house, when he said POM! Everybody in the cabinet sings with him in rhythmic cadence POM POM POM POm POm Pom Pom pom pom..................

Yet the police get order from the government? Do ministers have credential to order police?

I think police should not take orders from the government, especially in Malaysia. They should be free to act on their own intelligence!

Read more here Syed Hamid: Government won’t ask cops to drop case

My Rule of Law, My Internal Affair

Our country is governed by rule of law and Malaysia constitution, we the rakyat must adhere to the stated "Rukunegara". Two of the charters state about respects and upholding of the country Laws and Consitutions.

If you want to know more or never learn about Rukunegara, I suggest you go buy those elementary school exercise books. Not to do exercise nor fantasizing your spanking schooldays hot teacher. Turn the book around, read the five lines at the back page. That's Malaysia Rukunegara.

It has been taught to every Malaysian, young and old, rich and poor, bright and inept. All got a taste of Rukunegara, forced into our brain, indoctrinated.

This point is always being used by our ministers whenever another country like America issued a statement about our internal politics.

Rais Yatim and Syed Hamid Albar are loud in this respect. Do not meddle in our internal affair! We have our own constitution! We have the rule of Law! Let justice be served by our own rule of law! Other country cannot speak anything against our system! Other country cannot speak on our behalf! We have our rule of LAW.

Yes, we have our rule of LAW, we have our court and justice system. Right! So do North Korea, they have their own constitution. They have their rule of LAW. That is right, North Korea rule of LAW is sovereign. Nobody can meddle with them.

North Korea rule of LAW includes to treat Kim Hyung Ill as the GOD. If you badmouth Kim, you can be shot point blank. That includes looking at his portrait and scream supports to him. Master Kim, I will serve you till I die! Master Kim I will work harder for you! Lord Kim thank you for all your blessings in this land!

The truth is North Korea rule of LAW oppressed its people, in other words the people are equivalent to animals. Malnutrition, dying young, executions of a whole family if one of its member betrayed the North and cross over to the south. Think of every evil things that can be done to human being, go find them in North Korea.

Even saying thing like "Aiseh, this year we have bad crops lah, what is the government doing ah?". If you are North Korean and you say that, and somebody hear you. Your whole family will be sent to prison. Maybe death sentence for you too.

That is the rule of LAW. Rule of LAW! Constitution!

We also have our rule of LAW, nobody can touch us. We are not far different from North Korea in that respect.

Where is P. Balasubramaniam?

That is the question. No matter what the police are doing, it seems all the ongoing investigations are centred around the oppositions.

So far, only the IGP and AG were called to give statements. Pertaining to a different case committed in 1998. About falsification of evidences.

Please lah! Bala can shed light to a lot of questions. Who are really responsible in the murder of Altantuya Shaaribuu? Bala can answer that. He is an important witness to the tragedy.

The police knows his whereabout. But why defer his return to Malaysia? Why?

Also, remember that Justice Mohd Zaki said he would begin hearing submissions from all parties on July 23. Which is tomorrow!

After hearing the submissions, Justice Mohd Zaki will then decide whether or not to order C/Insp Azilah, 32, Kpl Sirul Azhar, 37, and Abdul Razak, 48, to enter their defence. Or he can release them there and then? If the prosecution team cannot prove beyond reasonable doubt that these three are involved.

I hope no more delays in the hearing. Perhaps Bala can book a flight back tonight. Far-fetched? maybe.

Read more here Altantuya trial: Prosecution wraps up its case

Justice remains elusive for this trial, a long way to go. Let's just wait and see.

In the meantime, we pray for justice to prevail, come hell or high water.

Forensic School Gone Awry

First the police arrested Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, forced him to go through thorough medical check up. They failed to obtain a new DNA sample from him, due to some loophole in the Law, which prevents anyone to obtain DNA without consent.

As expected the ministers high and low preached about the need for fresh DNA sample in order to get accurate Matching result. The big question! Is it really necessary for fresh DNA sample to perform accurate matching?

Yesterday Raja Petra Kamarudin posted an article about this. He wrote that DNA profile of a person once gotten will never expires. The same is true for fingerprint profile.

That's how god made us, unique alleles bestowed to everybody, it is in you from the day you were copulated until the day you die, and beyond. Because DNA is in your bones, your DNA can still be extracted long after you were buried.

DNA academic has been around for decades, scientifically developed. Taught in universities for aspired forensic wannabe.

Are the ministers trying to form a novel scientific hypothesis on DNA? That DNA profile could expires. To be published in DNA journals. If that so, then our ministers deserve to be elected as the next Nobel prize winners.

Pending scientific proof, if it's true. It's great news for me. I can change my DNA codes, be an ugly toad tomorrow, resting in the garden of some medieval castle. So I can wait for a stunning princess to kiss me. Hehe.

That's my fable fantasy gone bad.

To preach that a fresh DNA is needed for accurate matching is by all means a new subject in school. DNA never expires.

But if it is not true. Then I say sorry to aspiring CSIs here in Malaysia. Our ministers could have tarnished your reputation around the world. Switch to fashion courses while you still can.

Nonetheless, a new forensic frontier is in the making.

Illegal Immigrants Operations, Are we there yet?

My post this morning was a gratitude extended to the federal government. To express our real situation, in being shoved the money down our throat, metaphorically! Even though we Sabahans are not going to have a glimpse of that money.

Well it's not meant for us anyway. They are for the illegal immigrants, for their temporary lodging, for their food and drinks while in detention, for the salary of the enforment officers, and maybe directors of any agency involved.

The catch is, the government is trying to convey their sincerity, to convince Sabahans that they now empathize us, to make Sabahans believe and of course throw votes at them in general election, to put their feet in our shoes. To help Sabahans in facing this never-ending problem.

The timing of the 50 million budget bring forth many questions. More so when there are elements of pressures againts the government. Why now? Why not 10 years ago? And what would happen 10 years from now?

I do not want to speculate what would happen in the next 10 or 20 years from now. But without political pressures, i think, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to be able to tell the outcome.

Surely we cannot maintain the current state of affairs, the political uncertainties. If it does, then our country economy will plunge into unknown abyss. That is not good for Sabah too.

Everyone envisions a stable political affair, prosperous economy and surely more money in our pocket. And I think this uncertainties will surely whittle away very soon. Making way for a more certain future.

There can only be two possibities for the situation to change for the better. First Pakatan Rakyat to lose its power and Barisan Nasional to recapture the government with an even bigger mandate. And the second is Pakatan Rakyat to overthrow Barisan Nasional out of Putrajaya, and forming the new government.

For Sabahans, the latter is like a not tested debutante and there are valid reasons to be jittery about it, although lots of carrots are on offer. The former, though promising at this point in time, still raised hesitations among the Sabahans.

You see, the current Illegal Immigrant operations is largely seen as a short term solution to the problems. Illegal immmigrants have been in Sabah for hundreds of years, if not thousands. Their ancestors could have landed here long before the first Chinese set foot in Sabah. Why the chinese are given nationality?

Before you jeer and throw stones at me. Let me tell you my late grandfather is also a chinese.

That argument itself, can make very sticky discussions between the countries involved. I personally think it will not be solved in a year or two or five or ten.

But this 50 million ringgit allocated by the federal government. How far do you think it's going lessen the problem? What equipments are they going to buy? And how much would they costs?

Nevertheless, on face value, the government is surely getting significant support for this so-called generosity. Since people want to believe that the government is very serious in that matter.

Some Sabahans may view that the government is sincere. Before you join these people to sing chorus of support. Let us just hop into a time machine. Look at the situation from a different perspective, draw a mental picture in your mind, 10 years from now.

When the political climate is good, no more pressures on the government. We no longer have Barisan's outcast like Yong Teck Lee. Will the government take heed of what we say?

Now close your eyes and jog your memory, what had happened 20 years ago. Until March 8, 2008. If it helps, hum your favourite 70's number, to make your journey down memory lane a breeze. The period where Barisan Nasional have absolute power in the country. Did they take heed to what we said?

Open your eyes and reflect on the past and the future. What should we do now? Always remember that History has a tendency of repeating itself.

Illegal Immigrants - Thank you for 50 Million ringgit

50 million ringgit is the money allocated by the government to get rid of illegal immigrants in Sabah. It was announced last night in TV3. Come to think of it, yes we thank Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak for being generous to us Sabahans.

Thank you very much. We will be forever indebted to the federal government. How could we repay you? We cannot! Just take our land instead, use all of Sabah resources, cut our forests, rob our oil, bring your Malayan people and prosper here, we will reciprocate and send our youths to suffer there.

Convert them to be "just like you", so you can indoctrinate your belief and at the same time dilute ours. With that you kill two birds with one stone, you can increase your number and dissolve our threats.

Don't worry we are already inured to hardship. After all we are indebted to you. 50 million ringgit. Thank you.

Wait! Hang on... A little bird told me. that is not for us. Oi then for whom? For illegal immigrants.

Nevermind since our Sabahans mind told us A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.

When are we going to change?

Public Perception - Questions on DNA

I heard this news on the radio this morning, also in the star newspaper. Read more here;

Govt studying best way to reduce power tariff hikes

"Shaziman said Malaysia's power reserve margin capacity level was not too high at 41%, and plans were underway to reduce this amount to 25% by 2014."

Note the timing. Is the government heeding Anwar's idea now? After the debate?

Another thing that's baffling me is the question of how long a DNA sample can last?

I think once a DNA is taken from someone, no matter how many years, it will still be the same. The characteristics will not change isn't it?

Out of the sample, blood, semen, hair, swabs or anything. I think they will produce codes, these series of codes are used in the DNA matching, based on certain sets of algorithm which only DNA experts can tell.

If that is true, then the matching is not done organically, as such, no flesh vs flesh comparison, or no semen vs semen comparison for that matter. All can be done via computer, because the so-called codes should already in a dna codes database somewhere.

This concept is similar to fingerprints matching. All matching are done by codes vs codes in computers.

Computers will extract binary codes (minutiae) from fingerprint images, the binary codes will then be stored in a database. If there is a need to identify someone's fingerprints, his live fingerprint image will be captured or dusted out from a latent fingerprints found in a crime scene, converted into codes, and matched against database of codes.

Out of the identification matching process, adhering to a certain matching threshold, list of candidates will be presented to the users. From there you can call the candidates as suspects for questioning.

That's why im wondering why the police required a fresh DNA sample from Anwar?

Think about it.

Sabahan Youths Trapped!

Call them unlucky!
Call them naive!
Call them notoriuous loose youngsters!

Whatever you like to put the blame on them! The reality is our Sabahan Youths are suffering. A journey to the unknown, faraway lands in search of a greener pastures, waves of goodbyes from their aging parents, wishes of good lucks, bitter separation. All swallowed with hope of a better future.

The malay adage "Hujan Emas di Negeri Orang, Hujan Batu di Negeri Sendiri, Lebih baik di Negeri Sendiri" is true to majority of these sabahan youngsters. But what can they do? Long endured suffering, lack of employment opportunities in Sabah have propelled them into making headlong decision, to try their luck in Singapore and Peninsula Malaysia.

Little did they know that some greedy recruitment agencies are there just for the headcount money. Whatever happen when they get to Singapore are totally ignored.

It's so sad really. In Kuala Lumpur, I saw their difficulties with my own eyes. Just to give you one example. My friend is working in an illegal gambling shop. The place where personal computers are turned into Jackpot betting machines. In the same shop, there are six others Sabahans, all boys.

My friends has a wife and they live together in one room on top of the shop. No partition, just one big room to accomodate seven boys and one girl. No mattress, just mats.

Constantly in fear of being raided by the authority. The worst part is recently she delivered a baby girl and still live together in that same room with all the others. With all the difficulties of baby care, not to mention the noise from late night tantrums, I wonder how they can survive the ordeal.

That is what I saw. I believe many others are living in misery in Kuala Lumpur alone. When i asked "why not go home?, Balik Sabah!", majority of them answered they wanted to prove something to their family at home. They fear of being mocked by the villagers who saw them left with great hope.

Well in that respect, I agree with them. These uncle, aunty in Kampung ahhh... sometimes being unreasonable. Some of them look down on farmers. The mentality is that working as Government Officer "Pegawai" is very highly regarded, compared to being a rubber tapper "putung gatah".

As for me I tried to help in any way I can. If I see someone in difficulties, I will lend a hand. And I hope everyone of you will do the same.

Find more here http://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news.cfm?NewsID=58718

Fuel Price Debate

Last nigth show was entertaining. I was glued to the television. Really refreshing to see political debate between the government and the opposition. Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim carried with him a glittering charisma. It sure felt good for him, after so many years not appearing on TV. Bravo Anwar.

On the other end, Datuk Shabery Cheek. Malaysia Information Minister. Sadly, In my opinion this chap doesn't have any idea about economics. We don't know what he learned in university, but clearly he is not up to the par with Anwar. Shabery resorted to personal attacks and always talked in retrospect instead.

Anwar was absolutely the victor and Shabery became the prey of the day. People said Shabery was frothing. Very funny indeed. Let me tell you about frothing, all my life, ive met several people and dogs too with frothing condition. Whenever they talk (or is it barking?), layers of white foamy substance forms at the corner of their lips.



This condition may be caused by several factors. One of them is chaotic nerves. Scared of being humiliated can be one of them. Since this is the first of its kind debate to be held live in Malaysia, Shabery must have felt tremendous pressures. Let alone, the intimidation of debating with someone of Anwar's calibre.

Second factor is alcohol. Couple shots of vodka, some anxiety pills, or beer or stout can produce swill in your mouth. Those stress reducing stuffs.

Shabery Cheek also promised to resign if he cannot convince Malaysians that the fuel price hike is the right thing to do. Well now it's up to him to decide his own performance. The PM should know better, oo ya i hope he did watch it.

Shallow analysis, wanton personal attacks on Anwar, often diverted to things in the past, and frequently fumbled on his words. This is a primary school standards. I think at the end of the debate, Shabery must have felt awfully relieved.

Thank you Agenda Daily for organizing such a great debate. I would like to see more, please call these fellas for live debate;

Bung Mokhtar Radin
Pandikar Amin
Nazri Aziz
Pairin Kitingan

I want to see them shouting and screaming like chimpanzees in the debate, they may throw a few fists too, and have a seizure in the end. You knowlah, these people are loud but have Burung Unta brains.