Historian Wannabe

An old man said this recently; This is regarding a proposal to revamp the National Civics Bureau (NCB) training modules which egregiously focused on only one race. The training is better known as Biro Tatanegara. Go ahead google the statement below and; if the reporter/newspaper did not misquoted his statement, then I'll label the quack as a clueless old man.

“The participants had always found the courses useful because they are taught about new cultures and new values like discipline, honesty and to reject corruption. I don’t see what is wrong with that,” he said after witnessing the signing of an agreement between ......

"He said that when Malaysia’s history was discussed, it would be mentioned that this country was once called Tanah Melayu."

“Now it is Malaysia because we have people who have come to settle down here. That is a fact of history. You can’t deny facts and history. But if we can’t even mention that, then we are denying history,” he said.

He said that to defend the much criticized NCB course. He didn't agree that NCB courses should be revamped as what have been proposed by the cabinet in the spirit of 1Malaysia.

Just look at his choice of words (cultures, values, discipline, honesty, reject corruption, history). Very clever machaa! all those words are euphemistically used to cover up the real person that he is. It's an attribute of a master euphemist, successfull manipulator. And god knows what happened to Sabah & Sabahans in the 90's.

And who said Malaysia was once Tanah Melayu? Wah bila pula lagi ni? Where did he get the facts? How ignorant? For All I Know Sabah and Sarawak were never part of Tanah Melayu.

The Duck Test

Lately there have been many occurrences of horrible violence committed by ugly duckies. They continously attacked, attacked and attacked other ducks, geese, swans, chickens, horses, pigs, babi, etc.. These violences were committed by member of the ducks sub-species amongst themselves and also to other species.

Sadly whenever that happens, every leader in the animal community will say "no! the ducky is not acting like a true duck", "the ducky is demented, it's acting on its own and has nothing to do with the ducks", "we duckies want peace in this community", "it was not a duck", bla bla bla. These are the comments made even though many could hear distinct "quacks" (identifiably distinctively duck-like) just before he (the duck) was committing atrocious killings.

But still the leaders are adamant that it has nothing to do with ducks. They said that it was not duck ideological nature to kill others, and that other animals have also been culpable for many other crimes too. "So why blame only ducks? It doesn't make sense!". And yes I do think so as well, hmm... well partly that is.

I think to totally dismiss ideological duckies way of life in the horrible killing is an absolute negligence by the leaders. After all, something must be done to correct and rehabilitate certain psychopathic ducks in the community. We must do a thorough study on why did they turn violent. Conduct research and suggest better ways to improve security in our community.

Cognitively if it looks like a duck, and walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it’s a duck. Why live in denial?

Malaysia Day

Great news for Sabahan and Sarawakian. Finally, the government have relented and announced that SEPTEMBER 16th is from now on a national holiday. After seemingly a never ending wait for recognition of our Malaysia day. SEPTEMBER 16th is a historic day when Sabah, Sarawak, and Singapore joined with Malaya to form a federation of Malaysia. Four states federated as one.

Certainly it's good news for us, truly a milestone was created. Younger and upcoming generations will be able to cherish the day Malaysia was born. Not only that, this I hope will also spur curiosity among the young as to what transpired before, during and after Malaysia day. What agreement was made, understand what we conceded and what have been reciprocated by Malaya and Sarawak if any.

The Barisan Nasional government deserved a Thank You from us. But some other things can and shall be done. Relation between the federated states in Malaysia can be strengthened further if sensitive issues such as illegal immigrants, development, racial and religious tolerance, etc. are honestly and seriously tackled by responsible parties.

To truly emphasize this momentous event in history, maybe it is not impossible for the media and the government to give life back to the almost forgotten twenty points agreement. I am sure there's a good reason why our forefathers imposed the twenty points before merging into Malaysia. An agreement is an agreement and should never be treated like it is just another piece of paper, lifeless with no importance.

I will surely support 1 Malaysia if it promotes true integration without ambiguities that are giving certain community/quarters more than the others. We should learn and refer to clauses in the original twenty points agreements. The agreement made before Sabah agreed to join Malaysia. There's surely a valid reason then on why they placed the clause about religion first amongst the twenty.

In my humble opinion, the twenty points agreement should take precedence and carry greater weight concerning Sabahans rights as compared to the constitutions. Don't get me wrong and accuse me for challenging Malaysia constitution, I am not challenging the constitution. I am just stating that we should always look back, learn from the past, and we should understand why our forefathers drafted the points. I am sure they had our (the descendants) priorities close to their hearts on the negotiation table.

You may say that I am being xenophobic and afraid of 'Malaysian Integration', afraid of adopting others way of life and belief, afraid that my family, children and grandchildren will forcefully unwillingly converted to become the others. That I have a close minded attitude, and that I should learn from others and accept them eventually. I should cast away my xenophobic fear. Afraid that my body will be snatched from my family by religious authority for religious burial rights, when my heart does not even believe. Afraid My properties taken away by them when i die, and my family will be getting nothing from it. Believe it or not these are the problems currently faced by many Sabahans.

To tell you the truth, I have never had any issues integrating with other races. Be it Indian, Malay, Chinese, Iban, etc. I can adopt their customs in no time. I eat ketupat, rendang, kari, muruku, lassi, bosou, etc. I could learn to play kompang, wear sarung, play congkak, or any other things that's considered strange or foreign from where i was born. I have no qualms integrating with others' cultures and rituals. But sadly the most pressing issues of them all is about my belief and your belief. It is suppose to be 'to each his own'. I am asking you, if I am being xenophobic, what about the others? who's the biggest xenophobic of them all? Race is a non-issue, it's the belief system that's the biggest culprit of many problems.

Many politicians talked about this sensitive integration issues carefully by lightly treading on it, diverting from the real issues, focusing instead on what is politically right to the eyes of those in power. And through the eyes of young generations which are mostly taught to be politically right at the expense of tolerance in schools.

And yes, this is good for a start. Reinstatement of the 20 Points should be next on Sabah's Politicians agenda.

Partisan Message

Last Saturday, Thousands of Anti-ISA protesters marched into KL. Stopping the city in its track. The message was clear, to uphold freedom, liberty and basic human rights. To be able to speak when it matters regardless of belief, creed and racial composition.

The objective was to hand over a memorandum to the king. But they were not successful, as police used tear gas and water cannon to disperse the crowd. So no one could reach the palace gate let alone to pass a memorandum of the rakyat to the king.

Amidst all the chaos, one lone pro-ISA man successfully walked alone towards the palace. He carried with him a memorandum supporting ISA and he wanted the government to keep the law. He wore a T Shirt with a message to keep ISA to protect the rights of a particular race in Malaysia.



Something is very wrong when a group wanted ISA to protect the rights of only a particular community. The Anti-ISA group wanted to uphold liberty for all Malaysians, while this man and whoever he was representing wanted to save only his own race.

Selective International Affair

1. When Gaza was attacked by Israel, everyone in Malaysia came out strongly vilifying the atrocious carnage. Every single day we saw news about Gaza. Many ministers spoke about Israel's arrogance and how the people should abhor and detest the country and its people.

2. Some parties have also urged the people not to buy or use any products that in some ways related to Israel or American which is seen as the strongest Zionist alliance. Coca Cola was one of the products high in the boycott list. Coca Cola responded that a boycott will undermine the local economy since 60% of their employees are Muslim.

3. Many NGOs particularly those affiliated to Malay and Muslim causes organized emergency fund collections to be channel directly to the Gazans people to rebuild their lives. Commercial banks put up donation campaigns via their Automatic Teller Machine urging Malaysians to contribute to the Gazans, complete with specific account number to transfer our money to.

4. The attack on Gaza has even got it to the parliament. The Gaza motion was tabled by Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. Members of Parliament from both Barisan Nasional and opposition parties unanimously agreed to the motion.

5. But hey! do you remember that the motion about illegal immigrants in Sabah has been single handedly shot down by none other than a Sabahan speaker himself. The motion about illegal immigrants in Sabah didn't even get the chance to be read in parliament. It was rejected solely on grounds of technicality.

6. It is heartening really to see how sensitive Malaysians can be. We do not condone violence in any forms against humanity. And we would help in any way possible to assuage the wretched who suffer because of violence, natural disasters or any other form of calamities. Like the ones occurred in Sichuan earthquake and also the Hurricane Nargis in Myanmar. But the amount of support and assitance offered to China and Myanmar were mere peanuts as compared to those in Palestine.

7. I don't know if you notice it or not, but Malaysians particularly those in power and NGOs are clearly very selective in their international affairs. Whereby they are selectively overly unfair in their comments and actions. Just look at the quantum of support given to the Gazans as compared to those suffering in the crisis in Sri Lanka. Think about it, what is the difference between the people in Gaza and those in Northern Sri Lanka?

8. The crisis undergoing the Tamil people in Sri Lanka is no less severe than what had happened in Palestine. Why do Malaysians pay least attention towards them? Where are the NGOs such as Gabungan Pelajar Melayu Semenanjung? Pemuda UMNO? Where are the UTM students who organized special outdoor prayer for the Palestinians? Why not pray to God to stop the killing, for peace and wellbeing of the Tamils in Sri Lanka?

9. Why not convene a special Parliamentary session to condemn the carnage in Sri Lanka? I think you and every like minded Malaysian can extrapolate or speculate the reasons behind Malaysian selective international affair, but we could not make the implicit explicit.

10. In the meantime let us look back and think. That if our government and NGOs can be very unfairly selective in their international affairs, then would it be much different to our internal affair?

Inculcating Terror

No doubt Malaysia is a peaceful country. The people living in harmony with one another. Though certain policies are outrightly questionable. But we are still able to maintain status quo. Thanks to the spirit of "muhibbah" (tolerance, rapport) and "bertolak ansur" (give and take). However more often than not those who tolerate/giving were the same group of people all along.

The leaders have been propagating message of peace and harmony in multiracial and multireligious Malaysia. To understand each other better. Between the Christians, muslims, buddhist, taoist, atheist, etc. And we did that for more than 50 years. Malaysia has prospered. Everyone is happy.

But never underestimate our Malaysian fury. When it comes to military attack or invasion by non-muslim country towards another muslim country. These same Malaysians will show their true colors. They will take it to the street in religious solidarity. Charged by vengeance and anger. Never mind if they don't know the real story, never mind if there were casualties on either side. For all they know it was only a muslim country invaded by a jews or non-muslim country.

Never mind the symbolic burning of flags and effigies, never mind the over charge shouts of "Mati Israel, Hidup Palestin" (Die Israel, Live palestine). Was it not in the scripture that a matter of life and death is in the hands of Allah? Are they trying to defy the omnipotence? Look at the protest organized by UTM students. What will the American students in UTM think about it? What's with UTM's ambition to be internationally recognized learning institution?

Do they know that what they do will surely have an impact on younger generations and kids in particular? For all they care is to let it out, show wrath. Burn everything related to Israel or Americans. Never mind there are hundreth of millions other Americans, of which I think majority of them are also against Israel's policy. By burning their flag, it is declaring war against all of them. And they are are quite a number of American students in Malaysian public universities, particularly in UTM. That will surely send chill down their spine.

Think about this, what would you think when you see a group of British students burning Malaysian flag in Cambridge university, and you are one of the foreign students? Put yourself into the American students shoe, witnessing scary images of 2000 UTM students performing "Solat Hajat" prayer followed by sermons and chants of hate. At some places the American and Israel flag and effigies were burnt.

UTM students should be embarassed by what happened. UTM now sort of become a factory for militants. The saddest part is the UTM's management allowed the protest to take place. The management allowed all the nonsense. This must be stopped once and for all. We don't want another Dr. Azahari Husin, the mastermind of Bali Bombing and few others, who was a former lecturer in UTM. Also the current fugitive on the run Nordin Mohammed Top, a former postgraduate student in UTM.

What's with a protest organized by Pemuda UMNO at Palestinian Embassy? Which eventually turned into war of words between the protesters and Palestinian ambassador. Why? Because they carry the posters of Hamas leaders which are known to be the most despicable terrorrist ever live. Look at how stupid Pemuda UMNO are. Even Palestinian ambassador himself was perplexed by Malaysians. Carrying the poster of Hamas leader is equivalent to condoning terrorism.

What we want is peace between Israel, Palestine and other Arab countries. It should be possible when both countries at war to stop attacking one another. However fundamentalist Hamas must also be committed to peace. Mind you, they attacked Israel with Rockets as well. But of course the attack from Palestine towards Israel will never be reported in Malaysian media.

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.