Taking one step forward & three steps back, the M'sian way

On July 9, the government decided to end the teaching of science and mathematics in English (PPSMI) in national schools, beginning 2012 onwards. Again, the Malaysian people is divided with this latest regression of an initiative set up in 2003 to ensure Malaysia remains competitive in the globalised world of information and technology. But in my opinion, the government has shamefully taken a step forward but three steps back.

1 step forward:

1. Deputy Education Minister Dr Puad Zarkashi says that by ditching the PPSMI, the government saves RM40 million annually.
   

3 steps back:

1. Students who are caught in between the transition between English and Malay will suffer the most.
2. The government will allocate almost RM5 billion to strengthen the teaching and learning of English in schools.
3. Malaysia's ability to compete globally in the future is being jeopardized.
   

If there is one thing that really caught my attention, it is the amount of money the government is willing to pump in to "strengthen the teaching of English" in schools; after deciding to scrap the PPSMI. If the government has RM5 billion in the first place, why isn't that sum of money been put to help improve the PPSMI?

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak argues that only 8% of science and mathematics teachers are proficient in the English language. But the depressing statistic could also improve if half of that RM5 billion of funding is to put better use to bolster the proficiency among the remaining 92%.

It will not be a surprise to see the 8% (those who are proficient) to continue to shrink when students of today end up as teachers in a decade's time. Students now have no reason to improve their standard of English - given that the language itself is still not a 'must pass' subject in the SPM examination and also important subjects are no longer taught in English beyond 2012.

The government is not taking a gamble but a miscalculated dive into the dark waters of arrested development. Various cultural/language groups and politicians have come to support the scrapping the PPSMI, saying the initiative to teach science and mathematics in English is unconstitutional to begin with. They say it is an act of defence for the dignity and position of the Malay language as the national tongue. And by reverting back to the old ways, they are also strengthening the status of Mandarin and Tamil in society.

I'd say their argument is flawed. "Strengthening" one's language does not come by teaching science and mathematics in that language. It is through quality teaching materials and literature that improvements are made to one's proficiency. Therefore, to say that by scrapping the PPSMI could memartabatkan or strengthen the Malay language (Mandarin and Tamil included) is highly unfounded.

But the argument of the PPSMI is not to champion the English language whilst disregarding the other languages. Neither it is made to only improve the proficiency of English among students. The PPSMI serves a higher purpose which is to ensure young Malaysians are well equipped to compete globally.

I urge the proponents of the PPSMI-ditching campaign to be realistic. Sure, patriotism is good but blind patriotism can kill. English, whether we like it or not, is the language of science, information and knowledge.

The effort to improve the standards of English as a subject and learning science and mathematics in English are two different matters. One cannot learn the sciences simply by being proficient in English. On the contrary, one has to be familiar with scientific and academic terminologies in order the master a field.

As former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad has pointed out in his blog, just how many local academicians in this country do not take English textbooks for references? And if I may add on, just how many non-English speaking local academicians have gone to published world class writings or even being revered by the scientific community?

It is understood that rural schools children face difficulties in science and mathematics due to their poor command of English. But by scrapping the PPSMI in order is to simply run away from reality and is definitely not the solution. Therefore, the government should give more attention in developing and improving the proficiency of English among rural children and not taking their poor command of the language that as an excuse to scrap the PPSMI.

Malaysia was successful in the 1990's because the majority of our workforce and intellectuals were educated in the English medium. We have an edge over neighbouring countries like Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand when it came to attracting Western investors simply because we have better command of the English language.

So this is my plea to the government: Do not burn the whole forest over a sick tree. If the PPSMI has not achieved its intention, it does not mean that the whole idea is rubbish. The problem lies with its implementation and the lack of thorough study and evaluation. The English language subject in schools should be improved but at the same time, the government should also maintain and further develop the PPSMI initiative. School children are not guinea pigs for our experiments. Neither is the future of our nation a gamble.



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What Malaysia can learn from Britain

We can all learn a thing or two from the recent British Parliamentary allowance scandal that has made public confidence in the House of Commons hit rock bottom. For those who may not know what it is all about, the British parliament is in dire straits over allegations of public funds abuse by several MPs - including Prime Minister Gordon Brown himself.

In Britain, elected representatives in the House of Commons receive a monthly salary of £4,000 (after tax). On top of that, MPs are also eligible to make several claims over miscellaneous expenses and enjoy various allowances.

One of the earliest revelations exposed in the media was that of Prime Minister Gordon Brown. He claimed £650 for food, £83 for telephone bills, £1,403 for cleaning, £90 for home repairs, and £108 for his satellite TV.

Another senior minister, the Chancellor Alistair Darling, was reported to have claimed £2,000 for furniture, another £2,000 for new carpets, and £300 per month for food. He also claimed £1,200 to pay for his council tax and mortgages.

David Miliband, the foreign secretary, claimed for a £412 hand-crafted chair, a goose-down duvet and chenille throw from Marks & Spencer. He also bought a £450 John Lewis sofa, and claimed £9,000 to do his kitchen, plus £89 for other “household items”.

And the list goes on with the names of more than 200 MPs already exposed.

So what can we all learn from the shortcomings of our former colonial masters? Britain and Malaysia share a similar system of governance. Perhaps, the biggest moral-of-the-story we can all take, dissect and apply to our own backyard at the end of the day is the reaction of the British people and the Parliament to the crisis.

Looking at what the lack of public accountability has done to Britain, the Malaysian government should encourage transparency in every level - from ministries to local municipal councils. And if a government has second thoughts in enforcing public accountability among its staff, then the people should seriously consider who are they voting into office in the first place. Being transparent is not a choice, it is a must.

Therefore, making information such as personal allowances and other claims on expenses by ministers and MPs should be made available to the public. And any Abu, Ah Meng and Muthu should be able to have access to such information with ease. It is our right as taxpayers to know where all our money is going or has gone to.

The fact that British newspapers are responsible for exposing the dirty linen of MPs show that the mass media in Britain have no fear in reporting the truth. It is common knowledge that the local media in Malaysia have their news and articles filtered to avoid being too critical or cynical about the government or risk having their printing permits revoked. It is no wonder why so many people these days have turned to the so-called alternative media i.e. the Internet in search of news and independent opinions. Taking the crisis in Britain as an example, a free press could do the country a world of good by helping to promote public accountability. Press freedom is one of the prerequisites of a progressive nation and there is no debate about that.

The scandal has also forced British Parliament Speaker Michael Martin to step down for his 'failure to maintain public confidence in the Parliament'. It is the first time in 300 years that a Speaker in the Westminster parliament was forced to resign. Nonetheless, the response of British MPs to this was exemplary.

Despite growing dissatisfaction towards the Speaker, British MPs still behaved appropriately - there were no shouting, shoving or a contest of who has the richest vocabulary of insults in the Parliament. Government and Opposition MPs all followed procedures and protocols, obeyed every order of the Speaker and yes, there was no motion to remove the Speaker from his post - much of which is a testament to the maturity of the British Parliament. British MPs knew that as long as Martin is in the House, he has the authority.

This is indeed a far cry from what happened in Perak recently where the State Assembly Speaker V. Sivakumar was forcibly removed from his seat during an Assembly (images below).

The criterion of having elections every five years alone is not enough to fully describe what a democratic society should be. Public accountability, a mature Parliament and press freedom are the aspects of which Malaysians and their government should learn to give enough attention. Taking how their British counterparts handled themselves in the wake of embarrassing scandals, Malaysian politicians have a lot to learn and do.
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Where is the sense of conscience and responsibility?

IPOH: Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said today he was not "the menteri besar of the court" who did not have the support of the Perak people as claimed by Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat. [ 25/5/09, Bernama]

May 22 is the darkest day for democracy in Malaysia - albeit having many 'darkest days' of late following the coup d'etat in Perak. The Court of Appeal declares Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir as the rightful Chief Minister of Perak despite the Federal High Court ruling in favour of Datuk Seri Nizar Jamaluddin just 11 days earlier. The Barisan Nasional (BN) may have had the last laugh in this political scuffle but their despicable deeds will forever be etched in the minds and hearts of the Perak people who have been robbed of their state and democratic rights.

In the midst of the unrest, one can only ask: Where is the sense of conscience and responsibility?

Zambry has even the guts to say he is not the Chief Minister of the Courts [source]. His apparent ignorance of the truth is nauseating . If not of the courts then of who? The people?

The only way to prove how far his statement is true is to have a state-wide election again and let the people of Perak decide who they want to be their Chief Minister - Zambry or Nizar? Unless Zambry and his band of state representatives return the power to the people, he will always be a Chief Minister of the court - not of the people.

Thus, Zambry has no right (other than his right to freedom of speech) to claim he is NOT the Chief Minister of the courts. Has he forgotten that his status as Chief Minister was restored or rather, 'given' to him by the Court of Appeal and not through the votes of citizens?

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and his much-marketed philosophy of 1Malaysia appear evermore hypocritical now when '1Perak' itself is unachievable. If the Barisan Nasional is truly about serving the people then Najib -as Perak UMNO Chief- should not have allowed the power-grabbing that had placed the state into political turmoil to take place.

Zambry states that the Barisan Nasional 'had tried its best to ensure stability and harmony in the state' during the crisis - which begs the question: Would Perak be tosed into such disarray if and only if Barisan Nasional had not attempted a power-grab?

It is easy to ask the Pakatan Rakyat to 'respect the rule of law' or to 'place the peace and stability above all else' but did it occur to Zambry and Najib that the Perak crisis is borne of Barisan Nasional's actions? The people of Perak are not to be taken for a ride!

In the UK, the recent parliamentary expenses scandal has left the Speaker of the House of Commons, Michael Martin no choice but to resign. The Speaker is to quit in June following his role in diminishing public confidence in the Parliament and accusations of bias in in the handling of the scandal. Would Malaysians see the same pattern in our own backyard, following the Perak crisis? Like many Malaysians, I long to see the restoration of God-given conscience and sense of responsibility among politicians and leaders.

So, this is my take on the Perak issue: Political appointments and the formation of state governments should never be placed in the hands of the Courts for it defeats the purpose of Malaysia being a democratic nation. Whether it is the Pakatan Rakyat or Barisan Nasional at the helm, the only way to settle a dispute such as this is through elections. I'd call for the return of democracy to the hands of the Perak people and let them decide which party would best represent them. Period.

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Meritocracy - There is no better time for it than now!

PUTRAJAYA, May 18 — Only 20 percent, or one in five, of Public Service Department (PSD) scholarships are given based on merit while the rest are allocated based on racial quotas. [The Malaysian Insider]

Meritocracy - A system of a government or other organization wherein appointments are made and responsibilities are given based on demonstrated talent and ability. Nonetheless, meritocracy is a philosophy not clearly defined here in this country, given the many aspects of government dealings that do not seem to adhere to it. One notable government policy to go under that notion is the racially-biased New Economic Plan (NEP). Though noble at first, many Malaysians are now beginning to question its use or rather the ethical purpose after 30 years of its implementation.

It is revealed that only 20% of government scholarships by the Public Service Department (PSD) are given based on merit. The remaining 60% are given out based on the population ratio of respective races while East Malaysian bumiputras and underprivileged students are allocated 10% each.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz had last year told the Parliament that the PSD follows the 55:45 ratio when giving out scholarships i.e. 55% for bumiputra students and 45% for the other ethnic groups.

In an attempt to defend the shocking finding, Tan Sri Ismail Adam, the PSD director-general said it was unfair to direct the blame at his department over allegations that top students were being overlooked as there are too many students applying for limited number of government scholarships.

“Over 8,000 students are qualified to be considered for 2,000 scholarships. Please be fair to me. Perception without having an understanding and perspective of the issue can bring about conclusions that may not be right or fair. I understand the unfortunate ones can be emotional. But please be fair in your comments, " he said in his email to the Malaysian Insider in response DAP's Lim Kit Siang who brought this matter to public attention recently. [16/5/09, The Malaysian Insider]

"Overwhelming demand" is certainly not exactly the best excuse when 80% of the scholarships are given out based on skin colour. That means only 20% are allocated for students who have truly earned a scholarship through good grades. Is academic excellence not the top priority when granting such scholarships to students? The public has the right to know if it is not.

Also, how far would the 20% have gone to help underprivileged students whose families cannot afford the luxury to send their children to universities or colleges? What is achieved when students who have mediocre academic grades or who are from wealthy families are given scholarships to study abroad at the expense of those who are more deserving?

Nonetheless, it is encouraging news that the Cabinet has decided to look into this matter. More than 800 straight-A students who failed to attain a scholarship will have their appeals taken up to the Cabinet for discussion, according to a news report by the The Star.

Deputy Education Minister Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong cited a case of a student with 6A1 and 4A2 who obtained a scholarship to study engineering but students with 13A1s and 14A1s that they were given places to do matriculation instead of being awar­ded with scholarships. Such incidents are not uncommon with hundreds of thousands of students graduating high school every year. The question is: How long shall the shenanigans continue before meritocracy is restored?

The PSD has to be transparent in their process of short-listing eligible students and awarding scholarships. The lack of public accountability can only serve to fuel continued public suspicion and unhappiness over the matter. It was suggested some years ago that the PSD should publish the names of scholarship recipients but unfortunately, it fell on deaf ears. Being transparent is the only way the PSD could be free from such criticism if it is too much for Tan Sri Ismail Adam to handle. But then again, shouldn't all public agencies be transparent to begin with?

Above all, I believe government aids like scholarships in Malaysia should one day cease to be governed by race or skin colour. Instead, students who are underprivileged or those who have done their extremely well in their studies should be given the priority in receiving scholarships.

Society can only thrive under meritocracy where people are awarded based on their qualifications and talents. And in Malaysia, there is no better time for meritocracy than now.
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Suggestion to ban Karpal from Perak unconstitutional?

ALOR SETAR: The Kedah Royal Household Association (PKDK) is proposing the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Azlan Shah, ban DAP national chairman Karpal Singh from entering the state. [The Star, 12/2/09]

DAP veteran leader Karpal Singh (image) announced his intention to take the Sultan of Perak to court for allegedly 'acting unconstitutionally' in the latest political coup by the Barisan Nasional coalition. The Pakatan Rakyat state government of Perak found themselves out in the cold when four assemblypersons defected to the BN, allowing the latter to form a new state administration under Datuk Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir as the succeeding Chief Minister.

To read a detailed chronology of events, click here.

Despite the disputed resignation letters filled by three of the four defectors, by which their seats could be considered if its validity could be verified, the Sultan of Perak did not only fail to dissolve the state assembly for a re-election but also asked then Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin to step down. His Majesty's actions were viewed by some as unconstitutional as Article 16(6) of the Perak Constitution states that:

If the Menteri Besar ceases to command the confidence of the majority of the members of the Legislative Assembly, then, unless at his request His Royal Highness dissolves the Legislative Assembly, he shall tender the resignation of the Executive Council.

In other words, the only way the Chief Minister can resign from his post is for a vote of no confidence by the Perak State Assembly or the assembly being dissolved by the monarch. There has neither been a call for a vote of no confidence against him nor has the assembly been officially declared dissolved. Nonetheless, the new BN state government went on to install a new Chief Minister despite the legal discrepancies.

The biggest critic of His Majesty Sultan Azlan Shah was Bukit Gelugor MP, Karpal Singh. The ever-fiery politician planned to take the monarch to court to settle the legitimacy of his actions over the appointment of the new Chief Minister and the establishment of a new state government. Many quarters have heavily condemned the politician with some even suggesting he'd be stripped of his citizenship for questioning the power of Malay rulers.

On February 11, Karpal decided to back down after a long discussion between party leaders to take the Sultan to court. Pakatan leaders unanimously agreed that the monarch should not be sued and Karpal said he would fall in line with the party's stand despite disagreeing with it.

However, that did not stop further criticism being hurled at the DAP national chairman. The latest of which was from The Kedah Royal Household Association (PKDK). The association is proposing to the Sultan of Perak to ban Karpal from entering the state. Its president Datuk Tengku Zainol Rashid Tengku Yahya suggested it was an appropriate form of punishment for one who had insulted the Perak Ruler.

“We propose that the Sultan of Perak ban Karpal from entering the state as we feel that his action is against the country’s Constitution. His action also (does no good) to his credibility as a senior lawyer and as an elected representative,” he said at a joint press conference with the Malay Unity Action Front (BBPM) here Thursday. [The Star, 12/2/09]

Now, the last time I checked, we live in the 21st Century where the monarchies of our country are bounded by the written law we call the constitution. A more superior law would be the Federal Constitution which takes precedence over the constitution of any state within the federation. Hence, for the PKDK to suggest or think the Sultan of Perak has the power to ban any citizen from entering the state is unconstitutional.

I may not be a lawyer (and correct me if I am wrong, lawyers) but from my quick study of our Federal Constitution, I found out that in Article 9, it states:

• (2) Subject to Clause (3) and to any law relating to the security of the Federation or any part thereof, public order, public health, or the punishment of offenders, every citizen has the right to move freely throughout the Federation and to reside in any part thereof.
  

• (3) So long as under this Constitution any other State is in a special position as compared with the States of Malaya, Parliament may by law impose restrictions, as between that State and other States, on the rights conferred by Clause (2) in respect of movement and residence.

There are two points which, I believe, the PKDK have overlooked. Article 9 (2) states that every citizen (and I believe Karpal is one!) has the right to move freely throughout the country. The Federal Constitution already provides the liberty to every citizen the freedom of movement within country. So, what gives PKDK the right to suggest who should be banned from entering which state.

Clause (2), however, mentions the restriction of such liberties to citizens who are deemed threats to national security . The PKDK may argue that Karpal is a 'threat' to public order for questioning the Sultan of Perak and rousing the anger of many. Even so, Clause (3) states quite clearly that such restrictions are under the jurisdiction of the Parliament. The issue here is that the PKDK has asked the Perak Ruler to ban Karpal from entering the state, implying that His Majesty has the power to do so.

We no longer live in feudalistic days where the monarchy was absolute. State governments are democratically elected and hence, the real power lies with the people.

In his 2004 book, Constitutional Monarchy, Rule of Law and Good Governance, the Sultan of Perak said:

"Under normal circumstances, it is taken for granted that the Yang diPertuan Agong would not withhold his consent to a request for the dissolution of Parliament. His role is purely formal."

And that extends to state Rulers as well, I presume? But then again, what do I know about law!
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Perak defections - Pakatan tastes its own medicine

-A commentary-

PUTRAJAYA, 4 Feb 2009: The Barisan Nasional (BN) is ready to form a new government in Perak following four assemblypersons in the state quitting their parties to support the BN, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. [The Nut Graph, 4/2/09]

Look's like the Pakatan Rakyat has got a chance to taste its own medicine as the Perak state government's fate hangs on a thread after four assemblypersons 'defected' to the Barisan Nasional.

On January 25, it was announced that assemblyman of Bota, Datuk Nasaruddin Hashim (BN) has decided to trade his UMNO colours for the Pakatan's. However, Nasaruddin rejoined UMNO 10 days later after 'pledging' his allegiance to the Pakatan. Such indecisiveness from the BN man is anyone's guess. But it is just a political staged show for what is to come, I reckon.

The other three assemblypersons are Jamaluddin Mohd Radzi (Behrang), Mohd Osman Mohd Jailu (Changkat Jering), and Hee Yit Foong (Jelapang) whom all decided to leave the Pakatan to remain 'independent'. All three of them have promised full support for the Barisan Nasional if fresh state elections were to be held.

With the current state of affairs, both the Pakatan and BN have 28 seats each in the 59-seat state assembly. However, BN has the upper hand in this tussle for power, with all three 'independent' assemblypersons mentioned in the above pledging their support the coaltion.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak announced on February 4 that the BN coalition is fit and ready to seize control of the state. On the other side of the fence, the Pakatan are calling for fresh state elections, in an attempt to settle scores more democratically. Either way, the decision to dissolve the state assembly in order for an election to take place lies with the Perak state monarch.

This is the ugly side of Malaysian politics. I have personally grown to disagree with party defections simply because it is unethical. Regardless of whether the outcome favours the party I support or not, such methods of gaining power is indeed improper. What is the point of having elections when someday our elected representatives could decide for themselves which ship to jump. Would that constitute as cheating the voters at the end of the day? I believe so.

Say I voted MP Bob, who is running for Party A, because I disliked Party B. And one day, to my horror, MP Bob decides to join Party B. What happens to the votes that put him in office in the first place? Those votes were for Party A too.

Post-March 8 Elections (2008) have seen the Pakatan Rakyat denying the BN its 2/3's parliamentary majority it has always enjoyed. By all means, the BN only managed to retain federal power with landslide victories in Sabah and Sarawak. The so-close-yet-so-far dilemma soon settled in and Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (image) stunned everyone by claiming the Pakatan was able to form a new government by September 16 (2008) with the help of defecting BN MPs - 30 of them. Of course, September 16 came and nothing happened. Personally, I was looking forward to it and was disappointed it did not happen. However, I was glad it didn't because it would not be right to entice opposing MPs to switch loyalties in order to form a new government. It is undemocratic, in my opinion. If the Pakatan wants to do so, they would just have to wait till the next General Elections. That's democracy.

The Perak saga has Najib beating Anwar to his game. There has been suggestions for an anti-hopping law for politicians fond of switching parties while in office but the the High Court declared in 1992 that the anti-hop law was unconstitutional as it went against the freedom of association as enshrined in the Federal Constitution. The Pakatan justified party-hopping in the post -General Election months as it appeared to have the edge in the political race to form a new government.

However, the Pakatan are now calling for the implementation of the anti-hopping law and fresh elections to re-decide the fate of affairs following party defections. Unfortunately, I don't hear them saying the same things when Anwar audaciously predicted mass defections from the BN camp a year ago. Politicians are just hypocritical.

As unethical party-hopping may be, the same applies to 'position inheritance' as being currently practiced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and his second-in-command, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak. Badawi announced that he will step down in March 2009, making way for Najib to ascend to the country's top post. Is this not 'position inheriting'?

Look at it this way. Badawi did not intend to retire if it wasn't for the heavy losses suffered by the BN in the 2008 March 8 Elections. He naturally took the blame for the poor results as he was also pressured by many groups to make way for a new and 'stronger' leader. But Badawi ran as Prime Minister in the General Elections and people who voted for him genuinely supported him to retain his position.

So what happens when Badawi suddenly decides to 'hand over' that position of his to Najib? What if I voted for Badawi because I liked him being the Prime Minister but I disagree with Najib being the next one? So, people like me do not have a say when Badawi decides to just allow Najib to 'inherit' the title of Prime Minister. If party defections are enough to call for fresh elections, how is a resigning Prime Minister not?

Politics in Malaysia has been shamefully reduced to unethical methods like party-hopping, defections and 'position inheriting'. This is not true democracy. True democracy lies in the hands of the people - the rakyat who decides who stays and who goes. The politicians do not decide for themselves who we should or should not support! We decide.
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PM residence costs Govt RM6 million a year

KUALA LUMPUR: The Government spends RM6.01 million a year on the Prime Minister's sprawling residence in the administrative capital Putrajaya for rental and upkeep.[Daily Express Sabah, 12/12/08]

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi admitted RM6.01 million was paid annually to the state-owned corporation, Putrajaya Holdings for rental and maintenance of his official residence, the Sri Perdana. He was responding to an Opposition query in the Dewan Rakyat. Putrajaya Holdings' main shareholders are national energy giant, Petronas.

The Deputy Prime Minister's residence, on the other hand, drains public coffers of another RM4.3 million a year. In total, the government has to fork out a staggering RM10 million annually, simply to keep a roof above the heads of the country's top two leaders.

The official abode of the Prime Minister, known as Sri Perdana, is a complex of three buildings which consists of a reception area, banquet facilities and a residence. The buildings are spread across 16 hectares of land in the heart of the country's administrative capital, Putrajaya.

Kuala Kerai MP (PAS), Dr. Mohd. Hatta Ramli and Penang Chief Minister shared similar reservations for the extravagant expenditure the government has to bear for the both official residences.

"It is wasteful to spend so much money on renting the Prime Minister's house when the country is facing such tough times. Even though the money is going back to a government-linked company, this should not be the case as the Government should really own the building the Prime Minister occupies," Hatta Ramli said. [AFP, 12/12/08]

"We can understand paying maintenance, but rental does not make sense. This also begs the question as to who are the directors of the company and who gets all the profit made by the company, " Lim told reporters. [AFP, 12/12/08]

It is indeed mind boggling as to why the government has to pay rent for its own Prime Minister and his deputy when each of their official residences should be state-owned.
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Malaysia under Najib spells dictatorship, says Anwar

Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (image) has predicted a dictatorial regime under Prime Minister-designate Datuk Seri Najib Razak. [The Malaysian Insider, 10/11/08]

The charismatic former Finance Minister turned Opposition head was commenting on the government's plan of a financial boost worth RM7 billion to stimulate positive economic growth in the midst of a global recession. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak announced that the funds will be spent on a wide range of projects, from light rail transport to repairing houses of the poor with the hope of boosting the nation's ailing economy.

However, Najib's decision to allocated the huge sum of public funds despite its positive effects (as argued by the Finance Ministry) was criticized by theDatuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Such a move, according to Anwar, did not go through the proper parliamentary procedures and thus, could not be considered an approved policy.

"It has not been approved by Parliament. It has not even been tabled," the Permatang Pauh MP said of the stimulus plan. The public is not even aware this is a problem as conveniently most mainstream newspapers have covered this up just to protect him," Anwar said. [The Malaysian Insider, 10/11/08]

Najib's refusal to table the financial package in the parliament for a proper debate was seen as a prelude of what was to come under reign ofNajib when he assumes the role of Prime Minister next year. Anwar's statements echoed the Opposition insistence that such large utilization of public funds should be brought for a detailed parliamentary debate.

"This means you can anticipate the type of administration under Najib. In the issue of tabling this revised budget, the fact is that it was not done according to procedures. If he says it will be disbursed in January, how do you disburse funds that have not been approved by Parliament? So I do not know from where, maybe from his savings,"Anwar told reporters. [The Malaysian Insider, 10/11/08]

Even the US$700 billion financial bailout package proposed by President Bush in September to rescue the American economy had to be presented to Congress for approval.

The RM7 billion stimulus package was not part of the original 2009 Budget. On Wednesday, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia was right to rule that Najib's proposals were not an amendment to the 2009 Budget. However, the announcement of the RM7 billion stimulus package was announced by Najib in his closing speech of the 2009 Budget debate.

The question mark hangs over Najib's announcement of an addition to the existing budget when clearly no changes to the 2009 Budget was tabled at the Dewan Rakyat.In other words, Najib made changes to the agreed Budget without informing the Dewan Rakyat of any amendments.

However, Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah had insisted in Parliament that the funds allocated in the stimulus package was under an administrative order from the Finance Ministry and were not considered an amendment to the Budget Bill. In answering to Ipoh Timur MP Lim Kit Siang's query, Ahmad Husni said that the RM7 billion package was a 'hypothetical' solution as it depended on savings made from the downturn in global fuel prices.

But the 2009 Budget was also a 'hypothetical' solution by itself, as it depended on educated assumptions of revenues and expenditures acquired from predicted economic trends.

One might also argue that such bureaucratic corners had to be cut when an immediate response by the government is needed in the wake of a dire situation, in this case, the global credit crunch.

But why the double standards when the 2009 Budget was given the privilege of a parliamentary debate while a similar 'hypothetical' solution in the form of the stimulus package was approved without the need of one?

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BN MP calls DAP MP a bastard in Parliament

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 – It is often referred to as “this august house” but conduct in the Dewan Rakyat today plumbed new depths with obscene language that would make even a street walker protest. More than eyebrows were raised when a government MP called an opposition member a “bastard”. [The Malaysian Insider, 5/11/08]

The verbal insult was directed at Ipoh Barat MP, M.Kulasegaran (image) by Pasir Salak MP, Datuk Tajuddin Abdul Rahman who was offended by the former's statements. Kulasegaran was claimed that Tajuddin was "hated" by the Indian community in Pasir Salak; an allegation which apparently did not go down well with the Barisan Nasional man.

In retaliation, Tajuddin furiously yelled, "Bastard!" and repeated the insult. He was also quoted saying, "You bloody bastard, show me proof!"

Opposition MPs immediately objected en masse against the profane language used by Tajuddin at their colleague. Deputy Speaker Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar then requested the Pasir Salak MP to retract the derogatory word but Tajuddin said he would only do so if Kulasegaran would retract his statement first.

The Ipoh Barat MP, however, deemed his allegation that Tajuddin was "hated" among the Indian community in the Pasir Salak constituency was fair. He reasoned that he had been an MP for a neighbouring constituency (Teluk Intan) and thus, was only conveying the true sentiments of the Indian community over at Pasir Salak.

Nonetheless, the Deputy Speaker said Kulasegaran had provoked Tajuddin by using the word "benci (hate)" to describe the ill will of the Indian community in that area towards their parliamentary representative. The Ipoh Barat MP was then asked to retract his comments which according to the Deputy Speaker, were 'strong' and inappropriate.

“I have heard a lot of unparliamentary words. This is the first time I hear that hate is not an acceptable term. I will withdraw it and replace it with ‘don’t like him’ (tak suka),” Kulasegaran replied.

Tajuddin subsequently withdrew his word but was not in a forgiving mood towards his instigator. He said, despite the withdrawal of words by the two men, Kulasegaran had shamed him for making such a remark.

The spat between the two MPs then prompted another Opposition MP to ask for a clarification over the issue of offensive statements in the Dewan Rakyat.

“Two weeks ago, when Karpal Singh told the Speaker to be serious … he was thrown out. But here, Pasir Salak used the word bastard twice and nothing was done. Why is there a double standard?” Segambut MP Lim Lip Eng asked but was quickly brushed off by the Deputy Speaker.

Lim was referring to Karpal Singh's (Bukit Gelugor MP) recent suspension from the Parliament after he accused the Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia of not being serious and “main-main (playing around).” [Click here for the news report].

The Parliament is not new to the occasional vocabularic fracas by elected representatives who are, most of the time, guilty for their poor choice of words in their speeches. The senseless quarrels over offensive words may just prove to be a waste of time and effort as national issues that require urgent attention are momentarily neglected for MPs of both sides to settle their score.

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Govt defers another helicopter deal

The Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Musa Hassan said the Royal Malaysian Police will add 21 more helicopters to their fleet to improve the efficiency of the force patrolling the nation's waters. [Utusan Malaysia, 12/8/08]

In a report by Utusan Malaysia dated August 12, Tan Sri Musa Hassan announced that the purchase of 21 helicopters by the Royal Police was approved by the Cabinet. The force currently has 12 helicopters patrolling the country's waters but Musa expressed the limited numbers of helicopters were not adequate to effectively monitor our borders.

The total cost of the deal was never revealed to the public; fueling speculation that it may have been similarly overpriced as the recent controversial Eurocopter scandal. Information of the manufacturer, model, specifications, tenders and the company involved remained illusive from the public even two months after the Cabinet's decision to allocate funds for the purchase.

However, DAP veteran Lim Kit Siang questioned Musa's claim of the apparent "Cabinet approval" of the deal. In his blog (http://blog.limkitsiang.com), the Ipoh Timur MP wrote "When did the Cabinet approve the purchase of 21 helicopters for the Police...?"

If there was indeed an official Cabinet sanction of the purchase, how could an MP not know about it? Even if such approvals by the Cabinet had indeed slipped Lim's mind , it still does not justify the government's failure to disclose the details of the purchase to taxpayers.

On October 28, the government decided to call off negotiations on the ostentatious purchase of 12 Eurocopter EC-725 Cougars in the wake of falling crude and palm oil revenues. The next project to be deferred was the procurement of 21 helicopters for the Royal Police. The Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department, Datuk Amirsham Aziz announced so on the same day during the final minutes of the Parliament session. Indeed, such expensive undertakings like the purchase of the Eurocopters and the ones for the police had to be shelved to enable the government to divert precious public funds to more pressing matters.

Nonetheless, the question arises as to how many more mega projects are still hovering behind the backs of the Malaysian public that need to be scrapped to weather the global economic uncertainty. Whose call is it to make then, on which project goes and which ones stay?

Such of a responsibility lies in the hands of politicians whose cronies would have to endure massive financial setbacks whenever a government deal is called off.
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Brazil buys Eurocopters at half of our price

PKR Youth has revealed that Brazil purchased the Eurocopter Cougar EC-725 at RM82 million per unit while Malaysia were paying RM193 million per unit for the same model and specifications [Malaysiakini, 20/10/08]

The Defense Ministry has approved the RM2.3 billion purchase of 12 Eurocopter Cougar EC-725 helicopters to replace the aging Nuri models which have been in service for the past 39 years. To date, a total of 14 Nuris were reported to have crashed and with it, the lives of 107 servicemen.

Yet, it was not a surprise that such high profile purchases of the 12 Eurocopters would stir up a fair deal of controversy and skepticism from various sides.

Former Defense Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak who oversaw the deal was questioned for his ministry's decision to purchase the Eurocopters when similar and cheaper models were available from other manufacturers.

On October 20, PKR Youth deputy chief, Mohd Fariz Musa lodged a police report regarding the latest exposé into the much questioned government purchase of 12 Cougars worth RM2.3 billion. In a press conference, he stated that such large discrepancies in the prices both Brazil and Malaysia were paying for the same model merit an in-depth investigation and of course, public scrutiny.

"Brazil have signed a contract to purchase 50 Cougars worth US$1.2 billion (RM4 billion). On the other hand, Malaysia have sealed the deal worth RM2 billion for just 12 units," he explained at the Dang Wangi police station in relation to his report. [Malaysiakini, 20/10/08]

• Brazil gets 50 Cougars for RM 4 billion.
  
• Malaysia gets 12 Cougars for RM2 billion.

Earlier this month, Mentari Services Sdn. Bhd., the company which was involved in the tender, issued a written letter to Najib seeking to explain that Defense Ministry's decision to award the deal to Eurocopter was "too costly". The company chairman, Capt (R) Datuk Zahar Hashim also revealed that his side was shock to learn that the ministry had ordered the Letter of Intent (LOI) to be issued to Eurocopter while the process of evaluation of all bidders was still on-going.

Zahar said that for the price of the 12 Cougars, the government could have purchased 30 Kelowna’s Kazan MI-172 helicopters that could save the federal treasury of RM1.5 billion.

You may read Zahar's 5-page letter to the Deputy Prime Minister here.

However, Najib remained unshaken by the accusations and announced that the Cabinet has given the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) the green light to investigate the alleged chicanery revolving the Eurocopter deal. He also expressed his desire that the committee would not be influenced by any sides and be allowed to study the details of the deal.

• Does the PAC require the permission from the government prior to an investigation of suspicious government dealings?
• Shouldn't the PAC be independent from the government in order to effectively ensure transparency is practiced?

The need for the PAC to seek the permission of the Cabinet to carry out its duties is like asking a student to mark his own examination papers. Can the PAC expect honest disclosure by people involved in the controversy who might have their hands tied or mouths shut?

Following Najib's statements, DAP Petaling Jaya MP, Tony Pua has pressured Najib to respect and honour the independence of the PAC. He also condemned Najib's statements, saying it was a "mockery of parliamentary sessions" by requiring PAC's actions to be approved by the Cabinet.

"They must stop denigrating the Parliament and its institutions to tools of the Executive to achieve their own ends. In addition, they must cooperate fully with the PAC at all times, including if the Deputy Prime Minister himself, or members of his Cabinet are called to be queried on various scandals which affects them or their ministries," Pua who is also a member the PAC said in response to Najib's statements. [The Malaysian Insider, 20/10/08]

There is a dire need for transparency today especially when high profile deals and ostentatious civil projects draw their fundings from the pockets of taxpayers. It is highly unfortunate and disturbing for machineries like the PAC to still stand in need of "government approvals" in order to carry out its duties to keep corruption at bay.

For that itself is already corruption.
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Preparing for life after Badawi

Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today said he would pass his finance portfolio to his deputy Najib Abdul Razak (image), while he takes over as defence minister. [Malaysiakini, 17/9/08]

On July 11, Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi announced that he will step down as the country's premier and UMNO president by 2010. Badawi took the blame for the ruling Barisan Nasional's humiliating defeat at the March 8 General Elections which saw the Opposition taking 5 states and gaining 62 more Parliamentary seats. He has since been under pressure to resign and allow for a new leader to lead the coalition. After much deliberation with component party leaders and members alike, it was agreed that he would resign as Prime Minister by 2010; paving way for his second-in-command Datuk Seri Najib Razak to succeed him in office.

However, things took an awful turn on September 17 when Badawi surprised everyone by swapping portfolios with his deputy, Najib. Badawi is now effectively the new Defence Minister while Najib takes over as Finance Minister. However, the former remained as the Prime Minister; at least till 2010. According to Badawi, the switch was necessary to ensure a smooth transition of power in the build-up to his resignation in about 3 years time.

The portfolio swapping came a day after the Opposition failed to form a new government on September 16. It was suggested that Badawi had done so in order to put to grave any unrest within the ranks of UMNO and Barisan Nasional. Badawi had also hinted that he might step down earlier than 2010 but it would all depend on Najib's fulfillment of his new role.

"The period of power transition is flexible. I might step down earlier than 2010 but it all depends on Najib's performance as the Finance Minister," he explained to the media in the presence of his deputy. [Malaysiakini, 17/9/08]

"Handing over is a process. Between now and June 2010 we will study the process and decide accordingly what we need to do. The agreement remains. I am PM and president, he is DPM and deputy president." [The Malaysian Insider, 17/9/08]

The possibility of Badawi stepping down prematurely would be a welcoming sight for International Trade and Industry Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin who had called on the premier to resign as early as possible.

"The year 2010 is too far away. I have asked Najib whether he really believes by then he would have enough time in restoring confidence among the people. In the interest of the Malaysian people, I think the Prime Minister should reconsider this (his resignation date)," he said to the media during a conference in Singapore. [The Star, 10/9/08]

The portfolio exchange received mixed reactions across the two sides of the Dewan Rakyat. Barisan Nasional leaders lauded the Badawi's move to groom Najib into the next Prime Minister. They also credited Badawi for ensuring a smooth transition of power and this latest move would give Najib ample exposure to the job that lies ahead of him.

"Although he was briefly a Deputy Finance Minister, he has never held a full ministerial post in the Finance portfolio. This will allow Najib to go into the deep end of the economy,” Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad commented. [The Star, 18/9/08]

“The swapping will allow the PM to focus his attention on more important matters, particularly during this testing time,” Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Rais Yatim said. [The Star, 18/9/08]

Curiously enough, Dr. Rais did not elaborate further on what was "more important" than managing the finances of the country.

Across the divide, Opposition leaders criticized Badawi's portfolio-swapping theatrics as irrelevant in bringing about stability to the country's ailing economy. Selangor Chief Minister Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim said that Badawi who tabled the Budget 2009 should continue with the plan til the end.

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng also questioned Badawi's motives behind the switch as he believed that it would not benefit the Malaysian people in any way. He told reporters,

"What can be achieved from at this transition but to hasten Najib's prospects at becoming Prime Minister?" [The Malaysian Insider, 17/9/08]

PAS Treasurer Dr. Hatta Ramli was even more less forgiving by saying that the exchange of posts by the country's top two leaders was not consequential enough to improve the country.

"The portfolio exchange does not hold any significance except to reflect their individual failures in their (previous) portfolios. The PM is not capable of handling finances in the country. The DPM is not capable of handling defence in the country," he shared. [The Malaysian Insider, 17/9/08]

Malaysians have yet to see if the exchange of offices would serve to stop the Opposition from taking over the federal government or to restore stability and confidence in Badawi's already fragile regime. Either way, Malaysians would now have to brace themselves for the post-Badawi era that has already begun.
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Badawi's refusal to meet the reason for September 16 delay?

Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim said today he had signed up more than 31 defectors needed to form a new government and called on Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi (image) not to implement emergency rule to thwart a takeover. [Malaysiakini, 16/9/08]

Despite all the hype, there were no waves of defections from the east, no signs of a government takeover and no mass exodus of Cabinet members. Was the thought of forming a new government on September 16 a mirage, just like Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi had coined it? Or simply an empty promise made by the Opposition to woo more supporters?

Badawi had even called the September 16 dream a "political lie" despite receiving a request letter from the Opposition to negotiate face-to-face for a smooth transition of power. However, Badawi denied that the letter had anything to do with the transfer of power but was just a general notice of the country's current situation.

On September 16, Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (image) announced that his side had enough numbers to topple Badawi's regime and form a new federal government. It was understood that 31 MPs have penned their signatures on paper, agreeing to switch their allegiance. However, Anwar still refused to reveal the names of the defectors and said he would meet the Prime Minister to discuss the transition of power first.

"We've not given any ultimatum to Abdullah. We've said it is of national importance, it is incumbent and urgent for any sitting prime minister to respond positively in the interest of the nation and not just to appease the upheavals and turmoil within UMNO," he responded when asked if Badawi has a deadline to meet the Opposition leaders. [Malaysiakini, 16/9/08]

Regarding the names of the defectors, Anwar said he would only reveal them when Badawi agrees to meet with the Opposition entourage for negotiations. The Opposition leader believed that this was the best way to go about in order to protect the defecting MPs from being harassed by the government. He told reporters,

"Questions are raised on who and where are they. We name them now and they get harassed immediately. So, I'm telling you now that I will choose to confide in the prime minister. And if he wants the list I will show the list in the meeting. Until the right opportune moment, we can't declare. We know how the system operates. One Teresa Kok in detention is enough." [Malaysiakini, 16/9/08]

However, Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi refused to meet with Anwar and the other Opposition leaders. His declination to negotiate certainly made matters worse for the Opposition who was planning to reach an agreement with the current government by September 16. On the other hand, Badawi challenged Anwar to reveal the names first before heading to the Prime Minister's Office in Putrajaya to meet him.

"If he has the names, he should show the entire country. Everyone wants to know," Badawi told reporters in Kepala Batas, Penang. [The Malaysian Insider, 16/9/08]

With both parties refusing to give in, it was a classic case of "pay first, get product later" or "get product first, pay later" type of dilemma. Either way, delaying the September 16 plans would only serve as an advantage for Badawi's government as they aim to accuse Anwar for making empty promises.

International Trade and Industry Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin (image) told the media that there was no need for the Prime Minister to meet with Anwar; calling it a trap set by the influential Opposition leader to mislead the public. The minister who had recently called on the Prime Minister to opt for an early retirement was an unexpected supporter of Badawi's refusal to meet with the Opposition leaders.

"If he meets the prime minister, with the media coverage, people would think he must be right. I am not in the position to tell the prime minister not to meet, but I think it is not necessary. I don't think the prime minister would walk into the trap laid by Anwar," he explained. [The Malaysian Insider, 16/9/08]

Badawi's refusal to negotiate had prompted the Opposition to turn to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for royal intervention in the formation of a new government. Parti Keadilan Information Chief Tian Chua (image) announced that the Opposition will seek an audience with the monarch within the next 24 to 48 hours. However, Tian Chua was also quick to stressed that seeking the intervention from the King was their last resort as Malaysia has always been a democratic country and the Opposition would honour that.

"Like we have said, the Opposition have enough MPs now to form a new government. As Anwar have announced, we have more than 31 MPs crossing over to our side. However, we will try our very best not to involve the Agong," Tian Chua said in a press conference. [Malaysiakini, 16/9/08]

Despite of Badawi's ignorance for a proper dialogue, Anwar said the Opposition was "not in a rush" to seize power from the Barisan Nasional government as he wants to ensure national stability and a peaceful transition of power.

"He (Badawi) is currently under pressure from within his party (UMNO) and we should give him more time to consider this in the interest of the country and guarantee a smooth and orderly transition. This is one of our main considerations so that any moves made will be constitutional," Anwar explained. [Malaysiakini, 16/9/08]

September 16 may have passed with no signs of a change in government but the hope of a better Malaysia continues to burn amongst the people. Though Badawi will soon learn that preventing the inevitable is a fool's errand, many Malaysians are still cautiously keeping their fingers crossed.
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Zaid Ibrahim - Finally, a minister that walks the talk

Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim (image) says he will stick to his decision to resign from the Cabinet after failing to convince the government to reform the judicial system. His resignation comes as his protest of the recent use of the Internal Security Act (ISA) on three individuals. [Malaysiakini, 16/9/08]

On September 12, the government invoked the Internal Security Act to detain three individuals for "threatening national security." While Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Teresa Kok are still in detention, Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng has been released after 16 hours and is now safely back in Penang.

For more details, read Even clowns give better excuses than Syed Hamid.

Home Affairs Minister, Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar ordered was soon lambasted from both the public and within the Barisan Nasional ranks for the use of such draconian laws on civilians. He also claimed that such arrests under the ISA were necessary to maintain public order.

Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim was the front man in the protest against the ISA and had openly called for the immediate release of Raja and Teresa Kok.

"This country has many laws which can be used by the authorities to detain any individual. They do not have to use the ISA," Zaid Ibrahim told reporters. [Malaysiakini, 14/9/08]

Zaid Ibrahim also told reporters that the recent arrests under the ISA has hampered his efforts to reform the country's judiciary system for the past 6 months.

Another member of the Cabinet also voiced his disgust over the abuse of the ISA. Human Resources Minister Datuk Dr. S. Subramaniam questioned the government's use of the ISA,

"We have adequate laws to supress any irresponsible acts that jeopardise national security. Why don't we use those laws?" [Malaysiakini, 14/9/08]

MCA President Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting also shared his two cents worth on the matter:

"If a matter is said to be threat to national security, we must first have evidences to prove it. Those who were detained under the ISA should be charged in a civil court under existing laws which are enough bring about justice. This is beacause the ISA itself has the potential to undermine the rule of law and the deny the basic constitutional freedom of individuals," Ong explained to the public. [Malaysiakini, 14/9/08]

Zaid Ibrahim showed that he meant business when he threatened to resign from his position as Law Minister unless the government reviews the Internal Security Act and releases the remaining two detainees. Unfortunately, his cry for justice went unheeded by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi and as a result Zaid Ibrahim decided to step down as Law Minister without any hesitation.

Badawi rejected Zaid Ibrahim's resignation and in return requested the latter to take a 2-week long leave from his job to take some time to "reflect". However, the Prime Minister did not succeed in convincing Zaid Ibrahim to regress on his decision to quit the Cabinet. He held a press conference on September 16 to explain the situation:

"I am not tired (referring to the suggestion from the Badawi for a 2-week break). I am just disappointed. Therefore, my decision stays and I will resign from my position as Law Minister." [Malaysiakini, 16/9/08]

Malaysians have yet to see if the other members of the Cabinet who protested against the use of the ISA would follow Zaid Ibrahim's footsteps by standing up for what is just and fair. Either way, Zaid Ibrahim did the right thing to disassociate himself from the corrupt acts of the government. He was also applauded by the Malaysian Bar Council and the Opposition for having the courage to make a stand against injustice and tyranny.

Therefore, it's now time for the other politicians to rise up and practise what they preach!
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Touring MPs in Taiwan poised for early homecoming

The recent study tour of the Barisan Nasional Backbencher's Club to Taiwan's agricultural sector was to be cut short; bringing the bulk of its MPs back to Malaysian soil 3 days ahead of their scheduled return. The group was expected to return on September 16 - the same day the Opposition plans to takeover the government but the decision was made to bring it ahead of its schedule.

In fact, Backbencher's Club chairman Datuk Tiong King Sing said that some of the participating MPs had already departed from Taiwan a few days earlier. [The Malaysian Insider, 12/9/08] The rest will follow suit on September 13.

The early return could deprive Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim of any excuse if he ever fails to form a new government by September 16; a move which the Barisan Nasional government deemed impossible. But the club's earty return could also be a blessing in disguise for the Opposition with an extra of 3 days to finalise any details of the inevitable takeover.

According to Malaysiakini, the Opposition camp have sent 5 representatives to Taiwan on September 12 in attempt to woo any BN MPs into crossing over to opposite side of the Dewan Rakyat. They are:

• Deputy President, Dr. Lee Boon Chye
• Party Strategist, Saifuddin Nasution
• Deputy Director of Elections, Fuziah Salleh
• Party Information Chief, Tian Chua
• Wanita PKR Publicity Chief, Elizabeth Wong
  

Anwar had earlier conceded that the takeover of the federal government might be delayed due to the Taiwan trip but assured that he has the numbers (MPs) to do so. Could the early return of the Backbencher's Club prompt a takeover on September 16 after all?

However, Deputy Chairman of the club, Datuk Bung Mokhtar Radin was not convinced that any of his members were willing to meet the Opposition entourage or even considering switching loyalties.

We'll just have to wait see...
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MPs in Taiwan get RM50,000

On September 8, Malaysiakini reported that 49 MPs from the Barisan Nasional Backbencher's Club would be heading to Taiwan for an 'overseas study tour' of the country's agricultural sector. The timing of the retreat was heavily criticized as a ploy to thwart Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's agenda of taking over the federal government by September 16. However, he did concede that his plans may be deferred to a later date until all 49 MPs return from Taipei.

Malaysiakini also revealed that 22 out of the 49 MPs were from East Malaysia.

Read Malaysia's Judgement Day might come later.

However, the controversy took another turn when SAPP President Datuk Yong Teck Lee (image) dropped a bombshell on Barisan Nasional. He claimed that the 49 participating MPs in Taiwan each received RM50,000 as 'pocket money'. SAPP has two MPs in the Parliament - Datuk Eric Majimbun and Datuk Dr Chua Soon Bui; who both had rejected the invitation to go on the trip. [The Malaysian Insider, 11/9/08]

RM50,000 x 49 = RM2,450,000. Where did all the money come from is anyone's guess.

Though Yong's accusations should not be taken as the gospel truth just yet, it would be interesting to see how the Backbencher's Club talk their way out of this in the next couple of days.

The Star had earlier reported that the MPs who were taking part in the trip had to pay for their own expenses. However, The Malaysian Insider reported that the tour group was in fact funded by an unknown Barisan Nasional MP.

Perhaps a full report of their study tour should be disclosed to the public when they return on September 16. Or rather their shopping list...




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Malaysia's Judgement Day might come later

Pragmatic Oppostion leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (image) told reporters that the planned takeover of the federal government on September 16 might be deferred to a later date. According to Anwar, this was due to the Barisan Nasional Backbencher's Club's recent study tour to Taiwan which saw 49 of its MPs taking part.

"We definitely have the numbers (MPs) required to form the new government. However, we will need to wait because they are now in Taiwan," Anwar explained to the media. [Malaysiakini, 10/9/08]

Anwar said he was also informed that the participating MPs of the overseas retreat were "not allowed" to return to Malaysia before September 16; a sign of desperation by the government to stop potential defection of its MPs.

The retreat was allegedly intended to give the MPs the opportunity to discuss on the latest agricultural technology and the development of food science. There are currently 49 BN MPs taking part in the trip; 22 of whom are from East Malaysia.

While the names of the potential defectors to the Opposition have yet to be revealed, the list could be narrowed down to 49 based on Anwar's latest comments to the media.

Nonetheless, the Opposition's failure to honour their word to the Malaysian people to form a new government by September 16 is a psychological victory for Barisan Nasional who could use this to their advantage to restore public trust. However, the Opposition leader told Malaysiakini reporters that the takeover plan is still on track, though he did not rule out on any deferment of the proposed date.

Sooner or later, Judgement Day will come.
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Taiwan trip smells fishy?

On September 5, the Barisan Nasional Backbencher's Club announced that they will be organising a study retreat overseas for its member MPs to discuss agriculture-related issues. The suggested destination was Australia and will span 12 days; from September 12 to September 19 . The timing of the retreat was brought into question by many because it coincided with the planned September 16 'cross-overs'. The Opposition anticipates a formation of a new federal government by then with about 30-40 Barisan Nasional MPs expected to jump ship.

Read Crikey! BN heads off to Australia.

However, the latest reports from Malaysiakini and The Star revealed that the group will be flying to Taiwan after all. Malaysiakini reported that a total of 49 MPs will be taking part in the study tour while The Star mentioned 50 MPs. They will depart from Malaysia today (September 8). The date of the trip has been brought forward but the duration has been cut short to just 8 days due to the Ramadan. The Backbencher's Club members were expected to return on September 16.

Was the trip to Taiwan necessary to discuss matters of agriculture? It is also understood that the retreat is being financed by a single BN MP, as reported by The Malaysian Insider.

The trip was made compulsory by the club's chairman Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, adding more fuel to the controvery surround the whole idea of taking 50-odd MPs overseas. However, Tiong denied the trip was politically-motivated or had anything to do with the September 16 plans.

Interestingly, the Backbencher's Club tour group has 22 MPs from East Malaysia; 10 from Sabah and 12 from Sarawak. It was believed that the bulk of likely candidates defecting to the Opposition would come from the the two states.

The ruling coalition, Barisan Nasional currently holds 140 Parliamentary seats to the Opposition's 82. The latter will need about 30 more seats and had already set their eyes on September 16 to form the new government.

Nonetheless, only time will tell if the trip was truly designed as claimed by some, to sinisterly prevent the inevitable.
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Crikey! BN heads off to Australia

Barisan Nasional backbenchers have been told to attend an overseas retreat, believed to be in Australia and their attendance is compulsory. The retreat will take place from September 7 to September 19. [Malaysiakini, 5/9/08]

PUTRAJAYA: Barisan Nasional MPs have been asked to submit their passports for an overseas study trip. [The Star, 5/9/08]

The retreat was organized by the Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club for its MPs as a 'study trip' to Australia. The media was told that the 12-day trip will provide the opportunity for the MPs to meet and discuss issues relating to agriculture. Interestingly, The Malaysian Insider also revealed that the trip is being single-handedly funded by one BN MP.

“The trip came about after a few of our members got talking. We wanted MPs to update themselves with the latest information about agriculture and high-tech food production so that we can debate better on the Budget when Parliament sits again in October," said Backbenchers Club chairman Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing (image). [Malaysiakini, 5/9/08]

The Backbenchers Club is a group of Barisan Nasional MPs who do not hold any post in the Cabinet. There are 140 BN MPs in Parliament but only 65 are ministers and deputy ministers. The remaining MPs decided to form a group which they named "Backbenchers Club".

The announcement of the retreat came in response to Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim who recently reaffirmed the public that plans to form a new government by September 16 is still on track. Anwar also expects about 30 BN MPs from Sabah and Sarawak to switch allegiance in the coming weeks.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi gave his blessings to the Backbencher's Club, much to the disappointment of many Malaysians who view this trip as unnecessary and a waste of time. Could this be one of the government's ploy to foil the September 16 plans? Badawi said the trip had nothing to do with politics.

"If they want to go, let them go. It has nothing to do with Sept 16. They have no desire to cross over," Badawi said. [The Malaysian Insider, 5/9/08]

Though Badawi denied the retreat was politically-motivated, he did in fact vowed to do anything in his power to stop the Opposition from assuming power,

"We'll make sure that whatever they want to do will not happen. They are depending very much on our people deserting us. They will not desert us and give them the government on Sept 16. It will not happen, it will not work." [The Malaysian Insider, 5/9/08]

Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Rzak shared the same view:

"It's nothing more than a field trip." [Malaysiakini, 5/9/08]

Opposition leaders were unfazed neither by the retreat nor Badawi's war cry as they are still confident of overthrowing the present government by September 16. Their faith was bolstered when Sarawak PKR Chief Dominique Ng (image) announced that about 40 MPs were anticipated to join the Opposition in the next few weeks. He claimed to have met several top leaders of a BN component party who gave their word. [Malaysiakini, 3/9/08]

As September 16 looms closer, the Malaysian public can expect the government to draw all their cards and stop the Opposition from claiming the jackpot come September 16. Things might just get messy in the build up to end Barisan Nasional's dominance over Malaysian politics.

After all, a drowning man creates the most splashes.




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