No News Is Bad News
Will multiracial Malaysia fall to Taliban-like rule in the 16th General Election that must be held in 2027?
Wake up multi-racial M’sia: It’s still all about racial, religious bigots
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 15, 2023: Prolific columnist Mariam Mokhtar says the state elections were disappointing.
However, it was also disappointing that she avoided the use of “racial and religious bigots/bigotry” that featured the Taliban-like PAS which dominated Perikatan Nasional (PN), led by Muhyiddin “I Am Malay First” Yassin.
No News Is Bad News also noted that in Astro Awani’s panel discussion (that included Wong Chin Huat and Khairy Jamaluddin) during the election results coverage, for more than six hours, none of the panellist raised the problem of extremism (racial and religious bigotry).
Like Mariam, the panelists, for some reason, seemed to treat extremism as a taboo subject.
Why? Do they fear touching the issue because it is about Islamic extremists?
Racial and religious bigotry is the crux of Malaysia’s current political woes - and it is the reason why the PAS-dominated PN is today politically overwhelming.
Their brand of politics and politicking, the use of racial and religious sensitivities to score political points from the so-gullible Malays in rural areas, is clearly threatening national unity, harmony and multi-national Malaysia.
Is this Islamic or deviant teachings? Since when humans and political parties decide who goes to heaven, who goes to hell? Is the Unity Government taking this just as "nothing serious"?
PAS and PN’s propaganda or brainwashing have been so effective that their supporters even accept or belive that voting for PAS=PN … equals going to heaven!
In short, PAS-PN supporters have become political zombies, devoid any sense of rational thinking.
It is time for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (and his Madani Unity Government) and supporters of multi-racial Malaysia to face, acknowledge political reality that racial and religious bigotry is the leading problem and tackle it without fear or favour.
Call a spade a spade i.e racial and religious bigotry, akin to Taliban-like rule.
No News Is Bad News reproduces below Mariam’s take on the six state elections and previous postings:
Anwar’s wake-up call
Did scaremongering the electorate about the ‘green wave’ backfire?
Mariam Mokhtar - 15 Aug 2023, 7:15am
What a disappointment!
In the run-up to the state elections, we had to endure weeks of never-ending talk about protecting Malay rights, and defending Islam. With normality restored, writers, columnists and socio-political observers can now discuss more important issues, like the cost of living crisis and the economy.
If truth be told, the state elections were marred. Many people supported Anwar’s unity government, not because the coalition was good, but only because the alternative, PN, was terrible. That is not a good premise to start with.
Disappointingly, after the threats by ministers, the police reports, the legal action taken by politicians and corporation bosses against bloggers, the endless ceramahs, and the prime ministerial entourage criss-crossing the peninsular to campaign, Anwar could only manage a “status quo” of state governments. Did the millions of ringgit spent justify the results?
Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu remained under PN control, whilst PH retained Penang, Selangor and Negeri Sembilan. We might as well not have bothered.
The hustings were bogged down by the “same-old, same-old” style of campaigning, reminiscent of previous Umno-Baru versus PAS skirmishes.
Even the winning results were dreary, but there is no denying that the ultimate winner is PN.
PN failed to secure control of another state, but they did manage to get a foot in the door in Penang and command a much stronger presence in Selangor.
What spoiled it for Pakatan Harapan? In the weeks before the state elections, we were told that JAKIM would be included in national policy making, Islamic institutions were in receipt of millions of ringgit in funding, more money had been allocated for civil servants, there was talk about the harmonisation of both civil and syariah laws, followed by promises for educational reforms.
These sent out mixed messages to the electorate.
Malaysians are fearful of the onslaught of the “green wave” which hints at further Islamisation of the country and yet JAKIM would be dictating our lives.
The plan to harmonise both shariah and civil laws failed to reassure many people either. They only have to recall the Indira Gandhi case, the whipping of women which goes against Federal law, or the protests which accompanied events like Oktoberfest or the Bon Odori festival.
In the end, the results probably showed that the rakyat in the six states failed to be convinced by Anwar’s Madani administration.
Despite Anwar’s promises, the electorate in the northern conservative states continued to support their leaders, whom they know best and trust.
There is a possibility that scaremongering the electorate with the “green wave” had backfired.
There are many Malays whose faith is strong. When politicians frightened people with the endless barrage that the country would be led by PAS or an extremist leader, it is possible that “the green wave threat” rhetoric did not go down well with many Malays. Did some of them possibly see this as an attack against Islam?
Perhaps the biggest anomaly is the elephant in the room, i.e. Umno-Baru. Anwar’s supporters have been forced to close one eye about Pakatan Harapan teaming-up with Umno-Baru. They find it unacceptable that corrupt Umno-Baru ministers are part of the government as it also makes them look like hypocrites.
On one hand, the rakyat is pleased that corrupt politicians are being charged, tried and punished, but being forced to accept corrupt ministers in the Cabinet, is an insult. Many already hold the deputy PM in contempt. Moreover, the process of bringing the corrupt to justice is laboriously slow.
At the start of the campaign period, many may have supported Anwar as leader of the unity government. They did this not because they were impressed with his politics, but more likely as he is a good orator, and, as they are constantly reminded, “there are no other suitable leaders for Putrajaya”.
If Indians are allegedly the kingmakers, then one wonders how much damage Anwar’s outburst against the Indian student, had affected the election results? The young girl asked relevant and pertinent questions about the different responses towards the examination results of Malay and non-Malay students.
Anwar’s mask slipped and we had a glimpse of his real self, who was more interested in winning elections than practising meritocracy and fairness.
The poor election results are also a test of Anwar’s leadership.
Instead of bending over backwards for the Malays and insulting them by wooing them with perks, Anwar should treat them with respect and dignity, and not pander to their every wish.
When will he learn that it’s not about the numbers? It’s about quality.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.
Saturday, 12 August 2023
Brace for Taliban-like rule in Malaysia?
No News Is Bad News
Brace for Taliban-like rule in Malaysia?
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13, 2023: If the 18-party Unity Government (UG) led by Anwar Ibrahim and Umno continue to govern as if “all is well politically, business as usual”, the multi-racial Malaysia is in serious trouble.
The Taliban-like PAS dominated Perikatan Nasional (PN) has clearly made serious political inroad with its racial and religious bigotry.
And Muhyiddin “I Am Malay First” Yassin is no better - a racist who puts race above Malaysians.
Look no further than what the just concluded elections in the six states have revealed.
Never in history has PAS made such serious political inroads in Penang - winning seven out of 10 seats. It did not even happen during the Umno-led Barisan Nasional (BN) rule for about 60 years from Merdeka (Independence) 1957.
And Umno has only itself to blame for allowing PAS racial and religious bigots, and now Muhyiddin, to grow politically with their decades of bigotry.
Come the 16th General Election (GE16) which must be held in 2027, all things political remain the same for PAS and PN to thrive, Selangor, Perak, Malacca and Pahang may even fall to the bigots.
Only, perhaps, Penang, Negri Sembilan and Johor may remain with PH.
Should PN also retain Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah and Perlis, the PAS-dominated PN will have nine states to govern, and perhaps even topple the federal Unity Government - by then, even Sarawak and Sabah will become politically irrelevant to defend multi-racial Malaysia.
So law-abiding-peace-loving Malaysians - brace for Taliban-like Islamic rule.
The Taliban-like PAS led by Hadi Awang and the racist Muhyiddin “I Am Malay First” Yasssin will clearly send Malaysia’s into financial and economic abyss.
Does the 10th Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim have the political will and energy to defend multi-racial Malaysia with Umno?
Saturday, 12 August 2023
Taliban-like PAS dominated PN decides who goes to heaven?
No News Is Bad News
Malays believe the Perikatan Nasional coalition decides who goes to heaven! Is this Islamic or deviant teaching?
Taliban-like PAS dominated PN decides who goes to heaven?
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13, 2023: In Malaysia, people seriously believe that political parties decide who goes to heaven.
Malay politics have deteriorated in common sense and logic - simply believing the ridiculous.
How else not to conclude the political mentality of the majority of Malays as such - with the Taliban-like PAS dominated Perikatan Nasional (PN) carving landslide victories in Terengganu, Kedah and Kelantan in the just-concluded elections in six states.
Although the Pakatan Harapan (PH)-Barisan Nasional (Umno) coalition in the Unity Governments (UGs) retained their right to govern Penang, Selangor and Negri Sembilan, there was no joy for law-abiding-peace-loving Malaysians as their future is uncertain come the 16th General Election (GE16) that must be held in 2027.
Uncertain because the results showed the PAS-dominated PN led by Muhyiddin “I Am Malay First” Yassin has made significant inroads with its racial and religious political strategy - garnering sizeable votes, denying PH-BN its two-thirds majority in the Selangor state assembly.
By GE16, if the Anwar Ibrahim’s UG fails to stop the phenomenal political growth of the racial and religious bigots of PN, then there is a real possibility of the federal government falling to PAS-PN.
However, such a scenario is unlikely as long as Sarawak and Sabah remains committed and staunchly support the UG.
So, Malaysians, especially the Malays, wake up and use your sensible judgment to reject the racial and religious bigots in Malaysia who are shattering national unity and harmony.
Will they have the political will really stop the racial and religious bigots?
So, will Anwar and the UG do anything about the racial and religious bigots?
Time will tell whether Malaysia is heading towards Taliban-like rule or not.
No News Is Bad News reproduces below its earlier posting:
Saturday, 12 August 2023
Political danger looms in Malaysia
No News Is Bad News
For image info, go to https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/493320 (Malaysia’s dangerous racial, religious trajectory)
Political danger looms in Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 12, 2023: Malaysians have much to worry about their and the country’s political future.
The 3-3 status quo in the six state elections has revealed an unhealthy political trend towards Malay and non-Malay safe seats.
The Malay safe seats are dominated by PAS-Perikatan Nasional (PN) while the non-Malay safe seats are dominated by DAP-Pakatan Harapan (PH).
DAP won all the seats it contested while Umno-Barisan Nasional(BN) lost some of its incumbent seats. PAS won with ease in Kedah, Terengganu and Kelantan - sweeping aside Umno-BN and PH.
PN made a clean sweep of Terengganu - wiping out BN-Umno and PH-PKR. But PH-BN lost its two-thirds majority in Selangor.
There are also clear signs (garnering significant votes) that PAS and PN have also made political inroads in Penang and Negri Sembilan - with PN taking all three state seats in Penang's Permatang Pauh, a parliamentary seat Anwar, his wife and daughter Nurul held for at least five terms.
The three seats are Seberang Jaya, Permatang Pasir and Penanti (contested by PKR, Amanah and Umno)
This means Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (who is PH and Parti Keadilan Rakyat chief) and Umno-Barisan Nasional (BN) president Zahid Hamidi, and PN boss Muhyiddin “I Am Malay First” Yassin clearly are in a political dilemma to steer their coalitions to win in the next general election that must be held in 2027.
However, the federal Unity Government (UG) is relatively still safe because of the Sarawak and Sabah political blocks that staunchly reject the Taliban-like PAS which has swept the Malay-majority states.
Anwar, especially, has to worry about PH’s future as it is now threatened by the racial and religious PAS bigots.
Umno only has itself to blame for allowing PAS to grow in strength politically without checking its exploitation of race and religion for political mileage for more than 60 years, since Merdeka 1957.
Anwar-Zahid must now find ways to win back the confidence of the majority of Malays for PH-BN while Muhyiddin has to find ways to win the confidence of the non-Malays to win in the mix seats to form the federal government.
Both Anwar-Zahid and Muhyiddin have a daunting political task in the run-up to the 16th General Election (GE16) in 2027, with Muhyiddin needing to win the confidence of the majority of non-Malays, Sarawak and Sabah.
The state elections also show that PN has made significant political inroads in Kedah in mixed seats - with PKR ousted in Kulim by Gerakan-PN, the only state seat the Chinese-majority party won - thanks to PAS Malay votes.
Anwar-Zahid should also not be able to sleep well as PN has lost many seats with respectful majorities while toppling PH in two seats - Selangor PN chairman Azmin Ali in Hulu Kelang and Dr Afif Bahardin in Taman Medan.
And in Gombak Setia, Selangor BN and Umno chairman (since November 2022) Megat Zulkarnain Omardin (BN) lost to PN.
It is also significant to note that the electronic social media has posted reports claiming that PN had taken the early lead in the ballot counts in seats in Penang, Selangor and Negri Sembilan because of the early votes cast by policemen and soldiers.
If true, that is a significant worrying factor for the UG.
Political pundits, observers and investors (both local and foreign) will, therefore, keep a real close watch on the political strategies and actions PH-BN and PN will take for political mileage in the run-up to GE16.
State polls: Perikatan takes 146 seats overall, while Pakatan settles for 99
Sunday, 13 Aug 2023
12:19 AM MYT
PETALING JAYA: Perikatan Nasional has taken 146 seats while Pakatan Harapan has won 99 seats in all six states as of midnight Saturday (Aug 12).
In Selangor, Pakatan won 34 seats while Perikatan won 22 seats,
In Penang, Pakatan won 29 seats while Perikatan won 11 seats.
In Negri Sembilan, 31 seats went to Pakatan while the remaining five went to Perikatan.
Perikatan won all 32 seats in Terengganu while in Kelantan Pakatan won two seats with the remaining 43 seats going to Perikatan. - The Star
Thursday, 10 August 2023
Proposal to clamp down on racial and religious bigots submitted to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King)
No News Is Bad News
For image info, go to https://mysinchew.sinchew.com.my/20230427/how-to-achieve-national-unity/ (How t6o achieve national unity?)
Proposal to clamp down on racial and religious bigots submitted to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King)
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 11, 2023: It is heartening for law-abiding-peace-loving Malaysians to note that Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his Unity Government (UG) have actioned with a proposal to clamp down on those ridicule or exploit the religion for their own agenda.
Anwar said the proposal had also been submitted to the Selangor Sultan, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, who is the chairman of the national council for Islamic religious affairs.
No News Is Bad News opines that the move is certainly a step in the right direction to consolidate national unity and harmony for Malaysians.
Below is national news agency Bernama’s report on the issue:
Proposal for strict action against those who ridicule Islam submitted to Agong
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says the proposal has also been submitted to the Selangor sultan.
Bernama - 11 Aug 2023, 10:47am
Anwar Ibrahim said the proposal was submitted following discussions with his two deputy prime ministers. (Bernama pic)
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says he has submitted a proposal to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, to take strict action against any party that ridicules and takes advantage of Islam for their own agenda.
Anwar said the proposal had also been submitted to the sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, who is the chairman of the national council for Islamic religious affairs.
He added that he had discussed the proposal with his deputies, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Fadillah Yusof, prior to the submission.
“Wait for Aug 12, no matter what is the outcome. This is not about politics, I do not care who they support, that is their right,” he said at the Kita Selangor Grand Finale event last night.
“But if you take advantage of the religion, mock Allah’s law, judge and defame people, accuse people who do not support them as disbelievers or (claim) that they are enemies of Allah, (then) we will not tolerate this nonsense.”
Anwar said the proposal was to defend the interests of all Malaysians, not just the Malays.
“Do not insult any Malaysian from any race. Every citizen, be it the Dayaks in Kapit, the Chinese, the Indians who are Hindus… they are all our citizens and we must defend them.”
He added that people of all races in Malaysia have a right to be respected and defended.
“This is not a zero-sum game. If I support the Malays, it does not mean I will kick the Chinese. I’d like to stress that this country must be safe. This country must assist all the people,” he said.
Don't vote to be fried like chickens
No News Is Bad News
Image for illustration only. Do you get the message of the analogy? - Chickens vote KFC to be fried!
Don't vote to be fried like chickens
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 11, 2023: Malaysians in six states - Penang, Selangor, Negri Sembilan, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu - will cast their ballots tomorrow to elect their state governments.
They have only two choices - to support Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s Pakatan Harapan-Umno (Barisan Nasional) Unity Government or the Taliban-like PAS which dominates Muhyiddin “I Am Malay First” Yassin’s Perikatan Nasional (PN).
With Anwar and his UG striving tirelessly to heal Malaysia’s economy which is saddled with a RM1.5 trillion national debt - no thanks to previous federal governments led by their leaders, especially Dr Mahathir Mohamad who ruled the country for a total 26 years - voters cannot risk taking the state elections lightly.
A wrong decision will plunge Malaysia’s socio-economic progress into abyss, perhaps into a road of no return akin to Afghanistan.
The world economy is struggling to grow and it if just not the right time to take any risk of electing incompetent state or federal government.
Suffice to say, governments need political stability to be able to focus fully on socio-economic growth which is also related to both domestic and foreign investors.
Investors will shun any country that is besieged by political instability, racial and religious extremism.
So, the fate and future of Malaysians and Malaysia lie in the hands of those who cast their ballots in the six states tomorrow.
Good luck Malaysians and Malaysia!!!
No News Is Bad News reproduces below a well written letter by a Kelantanese that was published by online news portal Free Malaysia Today (FMT) and Anwar’s appeal to Malaysians to remember the Opposition’s failure when they cast their ballots:
4 not-so-easy steps for voters to navigate state polls
Find your moral compass, focus on issues, filter social media and bear in mind the butterfly effect.
Letter to the Editor - 04 Aug 2023, 8:30pm
From Prof Dr Zalina Ismail
My grandson is now eligible to vote in the Kelantan state elections. He wants to know if it’s worth the time and energy to come back and vote. “Grandma, why do we vote? Is it because we want a better quality of life? Has anything really changed?”
I have lived in Kelantan for more than 33 years. My grandson is right. Nothing has changed much. The air remains clear and fresh, there are no skyscrapers, the people are friendly. There is a small-town appeal that draws people back home every Hari Raya. Yes, nothing has changed; the water in some areas is non-existent, the internet is scrappy at best, and we remain the poorest state despite numerous natural resources. So, if elections were held to bring about change, my grandson asks, why is there no change? Good questions often have no answers. After 33 years, I am stumped too.
Perhaps, being in a strongly Islamic state, democracy is an alien concept? For change to occur, perhaps we need a theocracy? The early Islamic scholar Al-Farabi said that in the absence of the prophet, he considered democracy as the closest to the ideal state. He cited the Rashidun caliphate as an example. During its existence, the empire was the most powerful economic, cultural, and military force in West Asia. Yet, he also cautioned that it was from democracy that the Ummayad and Abbasid dynasties arose. Democracy matters, and the onus is on you to come back and vote for change in the democratic way. Your voice matters.
In the early ’60s, I recall a lot of anxiety during elections. We stayed in Penang then, and your great-grandfather was a returning officer. I recall how worried my mother was. How she was hoarding rice and cans of sardines in case of a “hartal”. Now, it makes me happy that you do not even know what a “hartal” is. Yes, in many ways, things have changed, and we want a peaceful political landscape. We must never go back to the fear and anxiety that your great-grandparents experienced in the ’60s.
Right now, we are in the midst of election campaigns. There are so many green flags and green banners everywhere, one could be forgiven in thinking that all this green represents the greening of the environment, the preservation of our natural resources and an end to illegal logging. But I am wrong in one aspect. In a sense, things have changed. The mangroves are disappearing, the illegal logging has contributed to the massive floods during the monsoon and the water quality is literally “to die for”.
There are red and blue flags and banners too. There are posters, headlines, and television coverage. Social media is alight with political messages, all of which call attention to the various political parties and their views on nationalism or patriotism, reform or revolution, past glory, or future promise. Whatever the party, it certainly breaks the monotony of everyday life here in Kota Bharu.
Find your moral compass
Firstly, my grandson, it begins with you. You need to find your moral compass, your personal guide to what is right and what is wrong. Self-reflection, learning about other perspectives, your religious beliefs and talking about values with friends and family can all help you find your moral compass. What are your views on the environment? How do your values shape your ideas on corruption? What part of the education system are you most concerned about? Or is it the price of chickens that sets your political heart on fire?
I do admit that navigating these pre-election days can be a highly emotional rollercoaster ride. All politicians engage in rhetoric. All your family members, including your grandmother, seem to be highly opinionated. So how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? My advice is to listen carefully. Empty rhetoric are merely hollow promises; words uttered without any attempt to take the action necessary to back them up. They are empty promises without a proven track record. Once they have your attention and your vote, these promises will be ignored or forgotten.
On the other hand, Aristotle said that true politicians talk about possible futures and look at the past “as a guide to the future and at the future as a natural extension of the present”… These are the politicians who are true to their words. They have a track record that demonstrably backs up the rhetoric. Read their manifestos and evaluate their track record. So, listen well and read carefully and then make your decision.
Focus on issues, not the candidate
My dear grandson, when it came to politics, my parents were solidly blue. On the other hand, your grandfather’s household was solidly green. Traditionally, this is how it has always been since the first elections in 1952. Historically, Malaysians have always voted along party lines. You need to move away from this paradigm. You must be more discerning about the politicians who want your vote.
There are so many issues at stake today. They will affect your life in a very tangible way. At times, I feel guilty because our previous choices may have a negative impact on you and your future children. Let it not be true that the sins of the father will be visited on their children.
What really matters are the issues: economics, education, environment, and an end to corruption, amongst others. Cast your vote in a way that will have the most significant impact on your community. Vote for candidates with a stance on issues that matter and for their ability to follow through. Which candidate has a better understanding of the policies that will affect you? Who is better positioned to bring about the changes you wish to see? Focus on the issues, not the candidate. When you do this, you cut through all that background noise and get to the significant part. Then you can make an informed decision.
Anything less than this and you are in danger of voting into office someone whose policies may be destructive to the environment or detrimental to a particular demographic.
Filter your social media
Malaysia has a well-developed social media ecosystem. There were 33.03 million internet users in Malaysia with an internet penetration rate of 96.8% of the total population at the start of 2023. We are familiar with Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok where the user demographics are skewed heavily in favour of youngsters and young adults.
My grandson, I am not wrong when I say you spend too much time on TikTok! Social media has a profound effect on elections. It amplifies and reinforces political messages and can perpetuate partisan views. You are being bombarded across the political divide by facts, figures, and misinformation as well.
Whatever political content you explore in social media, do it with care. Your role is to filter the truth from the misinformation, half-truths and lies. Fake news is nothing new. The only difference is how quickly it can be shared on a massive scale. You have a big responsibility here. As always it is back to your moral compass. Always check your sources, always verify what you view online. Develop a critical mindset with a healthy dose of scepticism.
Keep in mind the butterfly effect
In 1972, Edward Lorenz described this effect in a paper titled “Predictability: Does the Flap of a Butterfly’s Wings in Brazil Set Off a Tornado in Texas?” The butterfly effect rests on the notion that the world is deeply interconnected, such that one small occurrence can influence a much larger complex system.
Your vote is the butterfly that will determine the course we are setting for the future of Malaysia. Your choice will have global repercussions. Your vote can help create a net-zero carbon footprint in Malaysia with better air quality across the globe. Your vote can reclaim our rainforests as the green lung of the world. Your vote can eradicate poverty. According to the butterfly effect, small things can make a big impact. One vote – your vote – can make a world of difference. You can create lasting change.
Come home and choose wisely.
Prof Dr Zalina Ismail is an FMT reader.
The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.
The kettle calling the pot black.
Remember the opposition’s failure when you vote, says Anwar
The prime minister says states governed by Perikatan Nasional cannot match the achievements of Pakatan Harapan-led states.
FMT Reporters - 08 Aug 2023, 12:56am
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged the people not to waste their votes on Aug 12. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has told Selangor voters to keep in mind the opposition’s failures at the federal level and state level when casting their ballots this Saturday.
In a Facebook post, Anwar told the people not to waste their votes on Aug 12.
“Use this opportunity to safeguard Selangor from being destroyed by those who don’t know how to govern a state.”
In a veiled jab at Perikatan Nasional, Anwar said voters should take note of the states administered by the “other side”.
These states, he said, could not match the achievements of states governed by Pakatan Harapan.
“We still remember the time a former prime minister spent over RM30 million just to renovate the prime minister’s official residence while the people struggled with Covid-19.”
In 2021, the former special functions minister Abdul Latiff Ahmad, confirmed that RM38.5 million for renovations at Seri Perdana had been approved. The renovation work was started when Muhyiddin Yassin was prime minister.
Latiff claimed the renovation was necessary to ensure safety and preserve the country’s image during visits by key dignitaries.
Anwar said that such actions proved that the opposition did not care about the people.
Vote based on track record of state govts, says Santiago
Charles Santiago says stories of progress by Pakatan Harapan and the failure of the opposition-run states should be dominating the campaign trail but they are not.
FMT Reporters - 10 Aug 2023, 11:28am
Charles Santiago said the people should know who is concerned about their basic rights and welfare, based on what is evident in the states that are going to the polls.
PETALING JAYA: Former Klang MP Charles Santiago has urged voters to cast their ballots on Saturday based on the track records of the six state governments.
Santiago said that while the lead-up to the polls should be used to examine how well state governments have performed over the past five years, campaigning is instead being fashioned as a referendum on Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and whether he will be able to complete his mandate.
“It is almost the eve of the polls but the ceramahs and fiery speeches are still being used to position Aug 12 as a national and not local election,” the former three-term MP said in a statement.
“In doing so, we have wasted an opportunity to showcase the policies of the Selangor, Penang and Negeri Sembilan state governments, or to highlight the huge lack of progress in the states ruled by the opposition, namely Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah.
“Stories of progress by Pakatan Harapan (PH) and the failure of the opposition-run states are what should dominate the campaign trail so that the rakyat know who is concerned about their basic rights and welfare.”
He highlighted how Selangor had successfully implemented programmes that benefit women through its medical checkups and also the wider communities through the Rakyat Dialysis Centre.
The PH-led state government is also offering up to RM50,000 in interest-free microcredit, free water, free tuition and funeral expenses for senior citizens and those with disabilities.
Santiago pointed out that Penang has increased its annual aid to senior citizens and introduced programmes such as the Single Mother Assistance Programme and Golden Housewife Programme.
He also said Negeri Sembilan unfolded an additional RM10 million aid package to assist its people during the Covid-19 lockdown.
Santiago said this was in contrast to the opposition-led states which struggled with basic necessities, such as water supply, among other things.
“To those in Selangor, Penang and Negeri Sembilan, please look at what the state governments have implemented for you before you vote,” he said.
“And to those in the opposition-run states, vote for Anwar and his unity government if you would like to see progress on par with the rest of the country as well.”
Halim’s suit to trigger opening of Dr M’s cans of worms?
No News Is Bad News
Halim’s suit to trigger opening of Dr M’s cans of worms?
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 10, 2023: Businessman Halim Saad suing Dr Mahathir Mohamad (Dr M) is no ordinary suit.
The suit is 23 years late and it is akin to triggering the opening of a can of worms on Dr M, Umno’s elites and previous federal governments.
No News Is Bad News reproduces below national news agency Bernama’s report on the suit:
MALAYSIA
Halim Saad sues Dr Mahathir, govt over Renong share losses
Businessman says Putrajaya violated constitution by failing to adequately compensate him in firm takeover
Updated 14 hours ago · Published on 09 Aug 2023 11:50PM
In his suit, businessman Tan Sri Halim Saad has named former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad (pic), former finance minister II Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop and the government as defendants. – AFP pic, August 9, 2023
KUALA LUMPUR – Businessman Tan Sri Halim Saad has filed a suit against former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and two other parties to claim compensation for the losses he suffered following the acquisition of the shares of Renong Bhd and United Engineers Malaysia Bhd (UEM) by the government almost 23 years ago.
The suit was filed by Halim as the plaintiff through Messrs. Malik Imtiaz Sarwar at the high court here on August 2, naming Dr Mahathir, former finance minister II Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop and the government as defendants.
Based on the statement of claim, Halim, who is the former executive chairman and director of Renong, claimed that he intended to make a general offer to privatise UEM as a subsidiary of Renong, with the implementation enabling the plaintiff to gain full control and ownership of UEM.
“However, I was instructed by Dr Mahathir and Tan Sri Nor Mohamed not to proceed with the general offer because the government wanted to take over all the shares in UEM through a designated entity, namely Khazanah Nasional Bhd (Khazanah) or a party to be nominated by Khazanah.
“I was also instructed to leave UEM and Renong as a shareholder and director including the subsidiaries of the two companies. This obliged me to hand over control of Renong and UEM to the government and further dispose of my Renong shares at a loss,” he claimed in the statement of claim.
Halim claimed that Khazanah had acquired all of UEM’s shares through its subsidiary, Danasaham Sdn Bhd, thereby gaining control over UEM, which at the time owned 32.6% of Renong’s shares.
“In this way, the government took over UEM and indirectly gained control and indirect ownership over the Renong group,” he said.
The plaintiff also claimed that the government’s plan to take over UEM and eventually privatise it would not have been achieved without his support.
“The collective and concerted actions of all the defendants caused me to lose control over Renong and indirectly, control over UEM and its highly valuable assets including the North-South Expressway Project (PLUS), Elite Expressway and the Malaysian Second Link (LINKEDUA),” he claimed, adding that he suffered financial losses as a result of the actions of all the defendants.
Therefore, among other things, Halim requested a declaration and compensation with regard to the forced acquisition of shares by the government for the period between July and October 2001.
The plaintiff also requested a declaration that he was a shareholder of Renong and claimed that the government had violated Article 8(1) or Article 13(2) of the federal constitution by failing to provide adequate compensation to him.
He also sought an order for the government to compensate him in addition to claiming general damages, exemplary or aggravated damages, interest, costs or relief as deemed appropriate by the court.
In 2013, Halim filed an RM1.8 billion lawsuit against the government, Khazanah and Nor Mohamed after claiming he was defrauded. However, the suit was rejected by the high court here and he also failed in his appeal at the Federal Court in 2015. – Bernama, August 9, 2023
Sunday, 6 August 2023
Nab those responsible for ‘slaughtering’ video clip
No News Is Bad News
Nab those responsible for ‘slaughtering’ video clip
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 7, 2023: Racial and religious bigots in Malaysia have really gone too far this time around.
And the police and Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission should act immediately to trace and nab those responsible for the above video clip. They should not even wait for police reports to be lodged before acting.
The video message in the video clip appears to be “Vote PAS to slaughter …” and it is being spread in e-social media.
No News Is Bad News has no idea who is/are responsible for the video clip as racial and religious bigots can come from both sides of the political divide.
The Government is urged to act swiftly to nab and bring those responsible for the video clip to face justice.
There is no room for compromising with those responsible as peace-loving Malaysians treasure national unity and harmony.
Saturday, 5 August 2023
Hundreds of billions at stake on Aug 12, don’t throw investors down the drain for 'Talibans'
No News Is Bad News
Hundreds of billions at stake on Aug 12, don’t throw investors down the drain for 'Talibans'
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 5, 2023: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim says key investors have pledged billions of ringgit on condition that unity govt stays.
“I told them that we will be around for at least five years. Investors and fund managers cherish political stability, something the Unity Government aspires to deliver to both the people and investors, he added.
No News Is Bad News reproduces below a news report on Anwar’s message to Malaysians:
MALAYSIA
See what political stability’s brought us: Anwar unveils investment pledges
PM says key investors have pledged billions of ringgit on condition that unity govt stays
Updated 1 hour ago · Published on 05 Aug 2023 6:54PM
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (second from left) says that to meet foreign investors’ expectations, he has welcomed the upskilling of Malaysian workers to ensure they can become top-skilled workers in the near future. – Bernama pic, August 5, 2023
BY Ian McIntyre
KEPALA BATAS – Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim tonight showed evidence of what political stability can bring when he unveiled various pledges by investors that were made on the condition that he can assure them the national unity government is here to stay.
“I told them that we will be around for at least five years,” the prime minister said.
Investors and fund managers cherish political stability, something the national unity government aspires to deliver to both the people and investors, he said.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, said that key investors have pledged billions of ringgit to the country, generating spillover effects and most importantly jobs.
For Kedah, despite the almost daily condemnation from a hostile caretaker menteri besar in Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, Anwar said that he secured almost RM10 billion from global semiconductor manufacturer Infineon Technologies AG with the expansion of its plant at Kulim Hi-Tech Park.
Infineon will construct the world's largest power fabrication plant as part of its expansion plans in Malaysia.
Anwar has also secured a commitment from Elon Musk to build electric cars at a Tesla research and development facility in Putrajaya.
It will be Tesla’s largest facility in the region, Anwar declared, saying the foreign direct investments are worth about RM200 million.
China carmaker Geely has pledged RM10 billion to expand the automotive city it has with national car manufacturer Proton in Tanjung Malim, Anwar said.
Saudi Arabia's Aramco, one of the largest petrochemical multinationals in the world, has now agreed to make Malaysia the hub of its regional presence in Asean.
All of this is possible because investors are convinced that Malaysia has stability, Anwar said.
He said that to meet foreign investors’ expectations, he has welcomed the upskilling of Malaysian workers to ensure they can become top-skilled workers in the near future.
“This will create more job opportunities,” said Anwar.
He said that he wants to use the Penang Skills Development Corporation as a model for re-educating the workforce in technical vocational educational training.
Job creation will lead to the birth of a new breed of entrepreneurs who can bring more value and higher salaries to their workers, said Anwar.
He said this can only be realised if the government has a civil service committed to eradicating all forms of corruption in the country.
“I do not want to be a leader of a nation riddled with corruption and abuses. I will not stand for it, and I will fight the corruptors, even the billionaires who may be banding together in a devious attempt to unseat me. I am ready to face them,” said Anwar.
Anwar said that he is determined to provide investors a country generally free of corruption and that is geared more highly to become a responsible global player.
He said this after meeting a gathering of Bumiputera entrepreneurs at Bertam Resort.
The gathering was organised by the state’s Bumiputera development council under Tan Sri Khalid Ramli, the former implementation coordination unity director-general.
Anwar is on a whirlwind visit to his birth state, where he will later visit the Matriculation College in Kepala Batas for a dialogue, and Dell Global Business Centre Sdn Bhd in Bukit Mertajam.
Tonight, he will give three ceramahs in Pengkalan Kota, Karpal Singh Drive, and Permatang Pauh before flying back to Kuala Lumpur. – The Vibes, August 5, 2023
Mr ABU (Anything But Umno) dies of lung cancer
No News Is Bad News
Mr ABU (Anything But Umno) dies of lung cancer
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 5, 2023: Lawyer and social activist Haris Ibrahim passed away at noon in his brother’s Taman Tun Dr Ismail.
The 63-year-old founder of ABU (Anything But Umno) was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer in April last year and was given six months to live.
Haris played a significant role in rallying Malaysians to topple Barisan Nasional (BN)’s 60-year grip on Malaysian politics in the 14th General Election.
May he rest in peace.
No News Is Bad News reproduces below a news report on his passing away and his latest views on politics:
Lawyer, social activist Haris Ibrahim passes away
Saturday, 05 Aug 2023
3:03 PM MYT
PETALING JAYA: Lawyer and social activist Haris Ibrahim passed away at noon today at his brother's home in Taman Tun Dr Ismail. He was aged 63.
Haris had moved into his brother Adam's home soon after he was diagnosed with end-stage lung cancer.
Haris' sister-in-law Firoza Burhan said he had passed away very peacefully.
"He took in a few breaths and faded away," she added.
Firoza said Haris had woken up feeling very tired in the morning just a few hours before his demise.
According to Firoza, Haris had long accepted the fact that he was terminally ill and had a limited time to live.
"He took it stoically and fought courageously and underwent all the required therapies," she added.
He was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer last April and was given six months to live.
In spite of his illness, Haris had attended the Malaysian Bar’s “Walk for judicial independence” in Kuala Lumpur last June and arrived at the venue in a wheelchair.
He leaves behind a 28-year-old son and an 18-year-old daughter.
A man of principle and an inspiration, family and friends remember Haris
The lawyer-activist died earlier today after battling lung cancer for over a year.
Elill Easwaran and Amirul Aiman - 05 Aug 2023, 8:45pm
Despite being diagnosed with lung cancer in April last year, Haris Ibrahim returned to legal practice two months later.
KUALA LUMPUR: Friends and family members paid tribute to Haris Ibrahim who died this afternoon, describing the lawyer-activist as a passionate and principled man as well as an inspiration.
David Soosay, Haris’s partner at his law firm, said the activist’s death was not just a big loss for the firm but also to the nation.
Soosay said Haris was a man of integrity who never compromised on his principles.
A passionate man, Haris loved to serve the people and had sacrificed “quite a bit”, Soosay said.
“He was a man of great stature,” he told FMT when met at the Bukit Kiara Muslim cemetery where Haris was laid to rest.
Adil Akbar hailed his uncle’s fighting spirit after Haris was diagnosed with lung cancer in April last year. Despite his illness, he returned to legal practice two months later.
“I was surprised he became involved in the campaigning during the last general election,” he said, adding that Haris had campaigned for Segambut MP Hannah Yeoh.
Like Soosay, Adil praised Haris’s unwavering principles. While Haris was a staunch Pakatan Harapan supporter, it never prevented him from disagreeing with some of the coalition’s policies when it came to power in 2018.
“But he knew nothing was perfect in this world. He had always been a man of principle.”
M Nandini said if he could describe his long-time friend in one word, it would be “integrity”.
He recalled Haris’s advice on never compromising on one’s principles as it was a slippery slope that would lead to corruption.
And one could not fight injustice, corruption and abuse of power if the person was “not clean”, Nandini remembered Haris telling him.
Nandini had met the founder of the “Asalkan Bukan Umno” (Anything but Umno) movement in the mid-2000s.
“Haris Ibrahim would always be someone who really served as an example to us all. He was an inspiration.
“He really walked the talk and lost a lot of money because he invested in his cause.”
Haris Ibrahim is at peace with himself and prays that everyone else does, too
By Haris Ibrahim
Editor’s Note: Even if he knows that his days are numbered, Haris Ibrahim (far left pictured with Segambut MP Hannah Yeoh), the lawyer, veteran activist and crucially, founder of the “Asalkan Bukan UMNO” (ABU) or “Anything But UMNO” movement has never stopped fighting for social justice.
Even in his lame stage, the blogger of “Parlimen Rakyat” (People’s Parliament) wheel-chaired himself to lift the spirits of many lawyers who gathered at Padang Merbok in Kuala Lumpur on June 17, 2022 for the Malaysian Bar’s “Walk for judicial independence”.
At 63 years-old on April 4 last year, Haris Ibrahim was diagnosed with Stage Four of lungs cancer. Below is his latest Facebook post as he shed light into his ailing health which he is not giving up without a fight.
HI all. Got back from the dietetic clinic a little while ago.
Before going into my discussion with the doctor, and sharing decisions made, a quick reminder: I am a Stage Four patient.
From a scientific and medical perspective (yes, let’s leave faith and religion out of this, please), there is no cure for cancer. You can only send the disease into remission which means it can (and most often, does) come back.
Positive results from undergoing this gruelling 42-day diet and fast:
· Significant improvement in bowel movement and gut health (no more swings between constipation and diarrhoea);
· Improved blood glucose management without diabetic medication (fasting blood sugar now mostly ranging from non-diabetic to mildly pre-diabetic);
· Improved weight management (weight reduced from 86kg to 80kg while visceral fat levels down without further muscle mass loss);
· Reduced numbness in hands and feet; and
· No longer suffering the side effects of earlier chemo and immuno therapies.
However, the following evidences of a rapid escalation of the cancer disease – observed only recently – would seem to lend support to the conclusions arrived at by the oncologist in January which I have previously shared with all of you:
1. The rapid deterioration in the lung capacity in the last 21 days; and
2. The increase – in the last month – in the pain intensity and frequency of occurrence in the primary disease region.
For these reasons, after discussions with the doctor today, I have decided to no longer continue with the full rigours of this diet/fast protocol. I will spend the next few days evaluating if i should continue with a diet that is much reduced in its strictures so that I will be allowed to also enjoy the remaining days.
To those who are fighting this disease but caught it at an earlier stage – or know someone who is – I would urge that you seriously consider this diet. PM (private message) me for details if you like.
Will say again now what i said before. I have had a full life and am at peace with how things are. Please be at peace for me, too.
Love you all. – March 17, 2023
COLUMNS
COMMENT | Haris Ibrahim and the impossible dream
D Ananda
Published: Mar 29, 2023 9:30 AM
⋅
Updated: 10:29 AM
To dream the impossible dream
To fight the unbeatable foe
To bear with unbearable sorrow…
To fight for the right
ADS
Without question or pause
To be willing to march, march into Hell
For that Heavenly cause
- The Impossible Dream from the musical “The Man from La Macha”
COMMENT | Haris Ibrahim, the lawyer, the activist and the man has a dream.
A dream where Malaysians are one, identifying themselves not by race, religion or culture. But by the fact that we are all… Bangsa Malaysia. A Malaysian by race.
An unrepentant and obstinate optimist, Haris (above) never gives up on his fellow Malaysians to do the right thing.
In an interview with this news portal last year, he said: "When push comes to shove, when Malaysians decide enough is enough and come together… we are an unstoppable force."
His NGO, ABU (Anyone But Umno), became a rallying point that played a big role in toppling the BN's sixty-year grip on Malaysian politics in the 14th general election.
Haris advocates unity in diversity, never allowing idiotic concepts like religion or race to get in the way of forging a Malaysian identity based on being… Malaysians.
To bring his message of unity to the fore, he has organised a picnic for the people where everyone brings their own delicacies and favourite dishes to share with other Malaysians.
Haris has a sharp sense of social norms and participants are reminded of the peculiarities that prohibited certain meats.
The idea is novel. People of differing cultures sit down to a Malaysian meal and interact like members of a family out at a picnic.
He is acutely aware of the dangers of initiating lawatan sambil belajar (study tours) to places of worship which can and have been exploited by fringe members of some political parties bent on dividing Malaysians further.
Lawyer Haris Ibrahim
Bangsa Malaysia
To many, forging a "Bangsa Malaysia" is an impossible dream. We have gone down too far down the rabbit hole to think and behave as one people, one country with one hope.
The hope is that everyone will have a fair go at life and not because of any tribal affiliations. If you work hard, you toil at what you do best, you will be given a shot. That's it.
And yet, the percussions of social, and racial prejudice and persecution are being drummed up by members from both sides of the political divide.
I dare say that if the late Tunku Abdul Rahman had met Haris, he would have said, "Here is the real Malaysian we all ought to be."
No obstacle is too big or too hard for him in his quest for a better Malaysia for all to navigate around and leap over.
He uses diplomacy, a kind word, and sometimes, when he has to be, a figurative bang on the head to get his universal message of love and mutual respect through.
Today, Haris is stricken with stage four cancer. It has taken cancer, not bigots, racists and fanatics to put a damper on his dream.
The fight for that dream is now ours, every right-thinking, wholesome Malaysian, who still believes in the nation, duty and a better place for the generations to come.
D ANANDA is a reader/subscriber of Malaysiakini and Bangsa Malaysia.
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
Monday, 10 July 2023
Dr M - a man who denies his family tree and roots
No News Is Bad News
Dr M - a man who denies his family tree and roots
KUALA LUMPUR, July 10, 2023: Lawyer-turned social justice fighter Harris Ibrahim tore Dr Mahathir Mohamad's family roots apart, exposing the 97-year-old man as one who has forgotten his roots.
What more can one say about the integrity of a man who denies his roots and claims to be otherwise.
Haris is best known as the founder of ABU (Anything But Umno) that played a big role in in rallying Malaysians to topple the the Barisan Nasional’s 60-year grip on Malaysian politics in the 14th General Election.
No News Is Bad News reproduces below an open letter Haris penned about Dr M claiming to be a Malay:
By Haris Ibrahim
Dear Mahathir,
Malaysian Insider reports that you had "defended the social contract, the so-called unwritten agreement between the Malays and the non-Malays during independence, by affirming that without the agreement, Malaysia would not have been formed".
They quoted you: “If there was no social contract, the terms and conditions of allowing citizenship to non-Malays would have not taken place. One million outsiders were given citizenship at the time."
Now, this quote from you got me curious. Let me tell you why.
I conferred with my aunt, who confirmed that my maternal great grandfather, Eliathamby, of whom I've written previously in a posting entitled "The land that my forefathers helped build", would have left Ceylon and arrived in what is now West Malaysia, around 1870. He died well before the conclusion of that social contract that you spoke of, so my great grandfather would not have come within those 'one million outsiders' who acquired citizenship at the time of independence in 1957.
My maternal grandfather, Vellupillay T. Williams, never lived to see the formation of Malaya so he, too, did not make up the ‘one million outsiders'.
Enough of my family tree. Let's look at yours. I got this from a blog, Malaysiana: Perhaps, the most famous Malayalee to land in George Town was Iskandar Kutty, a merchant who married a Johor-Riau wife Siti Hawa Iskandar. They became the proud parents of Alor Star's top public school, Sultan Abdul Hamid College’s founder-principal and Kedah's royal educator, Datuk Mohamad Iskandar.
Mohamad was the school teacher of Tunku Abdul Rahman. He and his wife Datin Wan Tempawan Wan Hanafi from the Kedah Bendahara's (Prime Minister's) clan, were the proud parents of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia's Father of Modernisation and fourth Prime Minister.
And, this from Malaysia Today: Born in December 20, 1925, Dr Mahathir hailed from the state of Kedah, at the capital of Alor Star, whose father was a school teacher. His father was Indian who migrated from Kerala, who married a malay lady and sold banana fritters during the second world war. His early education was through a vernacular school and at the Sultan Abdul Hamid College in the city.
My question, then, Doc, firstly, is whether your father was amongst the ‘one million outsiders'?
And, when did you become a 'Malay', Doc?
When did you move from being a son of an Indian who migrated from Kerala to a Malay? Not that I care, but when?
Speaking of Malay, do you remember your "Malay Dilemma", Doc? Do you remember what you said about the problem of inbreeding amongst the Malay community, and that whole business of genes? Back then, who had heard of this thing called DNA?
Who had ever imagined that science would one day make it possible for all of us to trace our genealogy?
Guess what, Doc? It seems, based on all this new DNA scientific knowledge, that there's no such thing as a Malay race.
It would seem that you've gone from being a son of an Indian who migrated from Kerala to a 'does not exist'.
Just like that! My cyber buddy, Michael Chick, has written extensively on this matter, in a three-parter in Malaysiakini. HERE,HERE, and HERE.
See what Michael writes in his final part: “The people Malaysians call 'Malay', are actually only a tiny sub-component of the much larger Austronesian group. And, all Austronesians are the end-product of extensive inter-breeding between the Taiwanese and Dravidic Indians. All this has finally been irrefutably proven by independent DNA testings from world-class faculties".
I've never been very good at all these sciences, Doc, but if you're any better, and you think Michael's cocked-up big time in his conclusions, why don't you take him on?
Damn, I digress.
So, when and how did you become a Malay? Because of the definition of 'Malay' in the Federal Constitution, Doc? Article 160(2)? That right?
So, right up until the last moments before Tunku's declaration of independence, you were the son of an Indian who migrated from Kerala, and moments later you were magically transformed into a Malay.
An example of forked-tongue Dr M
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