Wednesday 28 November 2007

Class Politics - the Other Option?

"The HINDRAF movement is symptomatic of the fundamental problems that remain entrenched in our country and to stoke the flames of racism would only exacerbate racial tensions and animosity among Malaysians.
Malaysians of conscience who are committed to reforming this nation must recognise that a viable opposition is essential and now is the time to support it.
For the pro-reform parties in society to work together effectively, they must find common ground, be open to communication and collaboration, and resist the temptation to scapegoat other races for their problems and frustrations."

-ANWAR IBRAHIM http://anwaribrahim.com/site/

..............................................
“Only a class based movement not based on ethnicity and religion can truly built a nation without discrimination, race based corruption and race based politics. The ruling party would be able to rule and would continue to rule as long as the people are divided. The ruling party is not going to build a united Malaysian Nation, as it is not going to work to its advantage. The Opposition too have at many occasions being sucked into the same mode to win support of the people.
The future of Malaysia can go two ways – Race and Religious Politics which is the rule of the day versus Class based politics – cutting across race and religion lines. It is a serious question as race and religious politics with its history and conditioning remain the most effective way to mobilise the racially divided people. It is a question every person has to ask and ponder. It is a question which is going to continue to haunt us.”
-Setiausaha Agung, Parti Sosialis Malaysia


The above were the statements of DSAI & PSM of late, in response to the recent recent ethno-religious demonstration in Kuala Lumpur.
These statements got me thinking (not that I never thot of it in the past) - if at all we as Malaysians, have the mental capacity to break away from the ethno-religious politics that has become so firmly entrenched in "our" minds. So much so, any proposed option for anything along other ideological lines (than that prevalent) are declared "not feasible".

While what DSAI and Mr. Arutchelvan of PSM say may be true, how is it that educated individuals (ulamaks and umaraks, as one blogger would put it), choose to ignore this fact?

Isn't it obvious that the people are being taken for a ride? Is it really worth voting in a system that thrives on the ignorance of the masses?

How can they get their message across, into the hearts of the people to have national interests above selfish sectarian interests? How can the trust, that has been so efficiently subverted by "certain quarters", be cultivated for a truly united and unique Malaysia?
Despite the failures of race/religion politics, the masses seem to take to it like ducks to water. They subscribe to this idea, thinking that their "race, religion and heritage" is protected in this manner.

This phenomenon/ problem has been compounded by the "perceived rise of Islam" as a political force, and "exclusive socio-economic policies" by certain quarters.

Despite all the propaganda that has been dished out, it is time we acknowledged that "working together for larger interests" has never been the Malaysian way.

Instead, we have a system of "separate development" wherein, the selfishness of "to each, his own" is the philosophy. In other words, it is no different from the apartheid of Pietr Botha in the pre-Mandela South Africa.

In their intellectual bankruptcy, many a pseudo-intellectual try to play on emotions of a clueless people, who seek refuge and solace in the artificial constructs of race and religion based politics. It is a plague that feeds on the fears and insecurities of the innocents.

EQ- Zero in Action

Pardon me if I'm wrong - to me, the answer is plain and simple;

-First and foremost, we need educated politicians - (as opposed to the current IQ & EQ zero crop)

-transparent socio-political & business practices.
-We need to have a free media and a liberal education system that subscribes to excellence and affirmative policy.
-We need to arrest the unnecessary political meddling in all sectors of society.
-We should increase impartial and fair educational and business opportunities for the poor, without stifling competition.
- We need to abolish "sectarian" party politics thru liberalized education.
-Education has to be streamlined into three viable languages (Malay, English and Mandarin).
-Tamil as a medium of instruction has to be abolished, as it has no real economic value. It should be preserved by encouraging it with incentives of some sort- eg scholarships.
-Faculties in Universities have to be developed for ethnic studies.
-Unrestrained philosophical/ ideological debates need to be encouraged.

In order to assist in the evolution of the nation in a progressive manner, all parties need to refrain from using religion and ethnicity as a platform.

History has proven that theologically and ethnically based politics has polarizing, repressive and disastrous economic consequences, which are often incomprehensible to the masses who are desperate for a revolution. It would be wise of Malaysians not to descend to that level of desperation - wherein they have to turn to theology for statecraft.

Theology and racism in statecraft are for the ideologically ignorant and bankrupt- It would indeed be a sad day for Malaysia, when the masses have to turn to religious zealots or opportunists for political salvation. These are the two major factors that have polarised the nation today. To deny this would be foolhardy.

In order for the nation to evolve politically, we also need an enlightened electorate and student fraternity, who understand basic concepts of statecraft, democracy, socialism and elementary economics. Without real debate and discussion at the grassroots, nothing will come of this fight for justice that our fractured opposition parties grapple for.

Why is is so hard for the opposition to unite under one platform of social interests?
It is only becos they too have succumbed to the propaganda machinery of the neo-colonialists - be they chauvinistic nationalists, racists, religious ideologues, opportunists or simply ruthless capitalist pirates.

After the first 12 yrs of independence, then next 12 yrs of NEP ripened for 22yrs of repressive "Mahathirism", Malaysia has come to a stage of transition and transformation - when people have begun questioning the values that have been promoted by the authorities for 50 yrs. Malaysians are beginning to realize that all is not as rosy as depicted by the media - partly with the help of the Internet and communication revolution.

In all periods of history worldwide, when communication underwent a revolution - it heralded some form of socio-political upheaval and/or industrial revolution. Malaysia is no exception. To deny it, would only lead to turmoil.

Without this factor, all fights on the political front be it in the parliament, elections or demonstrations/marches/petitions, are doomed to fail.
Those who control communication, will be the elite - who will rule- who will define, make, interpret and break the law at their whim and fancy.

The message of a class based struggle need to reach the hearts of the heartlanders. They need to understand that their heritage,culture, religion and right can only be protected with a class based political scenario - as opposed to the elitist ethnic politics that is prevalent today.

The people need to realize that democracy is the only way forward - as opposed to the tried and tested authoritarian "asian values" - and speed of liberalization of the media is the key factor that would determine the progress of this phenomenon.

For social democrats to get their message to transcend the ethnic and religious divide, they would have to start educating the public on its ideals, economics and socio-political significance.

For this to be realized, we need a free media and liberal educational system. With these two factors, the peaceful transition and evolution of the Malaysian political landscape would be inevitable.

Monday 26 November 2007

Bravo HindRAF-ians!



Hindraf marched last Sunday with little, if any, trouble to the security of Kuala Lumpur - except for one officer sustaining a few stitches from a missile (most probably the canister of the tear gas?).

It was nice to see that many Indians were quite passionate about issues that were central to the events that transpired. In order to get the feel of the sentiments, I thot that the best place to meet my fellowmen would be, none other than the watering holes with predominantly Indian patronage - and so I headed into town, after making an appointment with a friend of mine for some "appetizers" ........

On the way, I landed up stuck in a traffic jam (slow traffic, really) as a result of police checkpoints - of course I managed to get a "second look" from these policemen who waved me by.

So I met up with my old friend and we got talking about "Hindraf" and the issues.
I must say that most if not all, were totally in support of the rally, although not many were too aware of the reasons, for the predicament that they were in.

It was very "heart-warming" to see these underprivileged and marginalized brothers being able to drown their sorrows, without any financial woes at that moment in time. It is like you're in another time zone - what matters is that, their problems (regardless of Hindraf) are drowned out amidst the "cheers", laughter, pool, and curses for the "oppressors".

Of course Al-Jazeera was showing, and the cheers were for the rally and Uthayakumar, while the jeers were reserved strictly for Uncle Sam.

With all the noise, I could almost hear Sammy echo Khairy & Nazri -
it was illegal,
use proper channels (or tunnels -bocor or not),
it is not "our way",
they should voice thru elections,
the assembly was illegal,
no permit was issued,
organized by opposition,
we are the true voice of the people,
we don't need change but only "improvement",
and so on and so forth.

Uncle Sam - why not try to be more original?

As I spoke to this guy who worked in the British High-Com, I really had nothing to tell him when he asked, "If the High-Com is closed, and they don't work as Uncle Sam alleges, why doesn't he let them go peacefully, and make a fool of themselves? What have they got to lose?"

Just a minute here .... I thot Star reported today that the IGP said, " ...police had wanted to allow the rally leaders to hand over the memorandum but they arrived only at 1.30pm, gave a speech and left".
How sweet - and I suppose, he even had prepared mineral water, laddoos and beers too, in the Diwali spirit of muhibah .....

That's a truly mind-boggling statement - considering the fact that tear gas and chemical laced water-cannons were used on the gathering as a gesture of goodwill .....

As for Batu Caves, I have my doubts with regard to the reasons for the police pelting, and for the guys to start throwing Molotov cocktails at buses, when there was no such incident at Jln Ampang- and for these guys to defile the sanctity of the very premise that they are fighting to protect and preserve?

I beg your pardon - but I find that a little hard to swallow (even with beer). Although I'm not a Hindu myself, I do know that it isn't something that they would do for fun, or to spite the police.
(Unless of course they were all intoxicated en-mass at lunchtime - then it would be possible ....)

Maybe these guys have a some pyromaniac tendencies, are fans of Indian movies where chaos and anarchy unleashed by "the hero" is applauded ...... I really wouldn't know- but I believe that Hindus are generally more God fearing than depicted in the report by Star.

What if those anarchists were planted there as "trojans" to create unrest, and unleash some sort of mass psychosis and rioting? Once again, I wouldn't know - but hypothetically speaking, it is indeed quite a possibility.
Anyway, whatever happened, only those who were there would know the real story and I wouldn't want to speculate any further.

One thing is for sure - there were Hindraf-ians, and there were Hind-ruffians ...... I wonder which ones were implicated in the vandalism.

Whatever the case may be, it was evident from sentiments on the ground that all those whom I met were unanimous in their opinion that they have been marginalized and economically suppressed - that they only received "when others have had their fill". That whatever little they had, was being slowly and systematically being taken away.

The question remains however, if their votes will will be acquired for a song, coming from the melodic voice of "you know who", or maybe even a drama of tears/ humble apologies with prostration - you can't rule out and underestimate the compassion & love of the "permanently colonialized Indians" for the "thalaivar".

One thing is for sure, Hindraf did achieve with 20,000, what the 60,000 of Bersih marchers couldn't ....... they made it to the STAR Frontpage news headlines!!

Let's "sheers" (sic) to that, brother .......

Friday 23 November 2007

Sothi, LKS, and HINDRAF


I was quite tickled to see the so-called "debate" which was side-tracked so easily with "psychological harassment" - the "tormentor" being none other than Mr LKS. Not to be left out, there were other hecklers in the opposition adding fuel to the fire, some bringing out "rocket stories" in defense of racial concerns .......

Firstly, it has to be said that Mr.LKS's conduct was definitely improper - screaming his guts out when there was no need for it. Secondly, he diverted attention from the issue of quit rent that was to be debated. To say the least, I believe his conduct was also unbecoming of a parliamentarian whom we address as "YB". His conduct was juvenile, indelicate and uncultured, at best.
I wouldn't have been surprised, had Mr. LKS and gang stuck out their tongues or middle fingers at Mr. Sothi and Co., during their sparring session!

Why is it so difficult to debate in a civil manner? Was it the way it is now, just a generation ago?

Although I do not condone his manner of torment, (by bringing up the issue of humiliation MIC and PPP were subjected to), I couldn't help laughing at the conduct and reaction of Mr. Sothi ...... he was obviously quite flustered by the needling, and was trying hard to maintain composure. He apparently, even whacked Jasin by telling him to "tutup satu mata"!

Being an "Indian" in the race-politics landscape, I guess his Emotional Intelligence Quotient could probably be quite low, after watching the "Indian" movies (and of course training from the "big guy" himself), with so much of extreme emotional expressions and decadence.

Let me indulge in some speculative, hypothetical thots ......
At that moment in time, with the adrenaline pumping his brains, I wouldn't have bet on what might've happened should Mr. LKS had handed him a rod for whatever purpose! Mr. Sothi, in his sweaty emotional turmoil, might've whacked (or shoved) himself if he was into Masochism, or could've whacked LKS if he was in line with the sacred "pantang dicabar" principle of "asian values".

If there were similar challenges at the Hindraf assembly to submit the memo to the Queen, could a similar response be evoked from participants?
I believe, that the likelihood is quite high, that these guys could be quite easily provoked - and indulge themselves in "heroics".

As much as I would support their right to peaceful assembly, I don't really subscribe their agenda of sectarian interests.

Of course there are convenient "Malaysian interests" dished out as political spins to the event - but it is ultimately, nothing but a fight for sectarian interests. From that perspective, I believe their methods of fighting for their rights are very much misguided.

One thing is for sure - even though I empathize with their sentiments, I wouldn't say that I fully sympathize with their predicament.

It was these isolationist attitudes that actually got these unfortunate marginalized Malaysians into the predicament that they cry foul about - that too, at the British crown!

Where were these guys during the Bersih March? Little chest thumping bravado did I hear from these Hindraf guys who now scream "justice" for "colonialized Indians" .......
I was quite shocked to hear that some of these guys have taken the words, "Jai Hind" to be their rallying call!

Allow me to ask a few simple questions -
What prevented them from rallying their followers in a similar manner for the Bersih March?
How many of these guys, claiming to be proud Malaysians, can actually speak Malay flawlessly, despite having lived all their lives in Malaysia?
What have they actually done personally to actually "integrate" into Malaysian society?
Do they really want to integrate or do they wish to isolate themselves, by clinging to ethnic chauvinism inclinations that has been infused into their minds?

The way I look at it, these guys from Hindraf are just playing the "race card" as a means to achieve their ends - no different from MIC, MCA, UMNO or other parties and groups that masquerade under non-ethnic constitutions. In fact, I'm certain of the fact that there are some "bloggers" who are obviously MIC supporters, who are campaigning for this rally - all fired-up and issuing warnings to others along the lines of "pantang dicabar", and "krisman" himself.

But of course, this assembly is "a fight for the rights of all Malaysians" - so, they say!

Yeah, right - And I'm Abraham Lincoln .........

Allow me to post DSAI's statement on this matter ...
HINDRAF Rally

I support HINDRAF’s right to peaceful demonstration and therefore reiterate my appeal to the Royal Malaysian Police to approve a permit for their rally to take place on 25 November 2007. The right to peaceful assembly is guaranteed by the Malaysian Constitution and the November 10 BERSIH rally has demonstrated conclusively that the Malaysian people can act responsibly and in accordance with the best traditions of civil society.

However I must appeal to HINDRAF to consider a more balanced and responsible approach to addressing its grievances, which have been incorrectly attributed to the Constitution, and in particular Article 153. HINDRAF’s complaints should be directed towards the corrupt UMNO-led BN coalition government that is guilty of serious abuses of power and which continues to marginalise and neglect the plight of poor Indians, and has also failed to take into account the problems of all Malaysians, irrespective of race, colour or religion.

The HINDRAF movement is symptomatic of the fundamental problems that remain entrenched in our country and to stoke the flames of racism would only exacerbate racial tensions and animosity among Malaysians.

Malaysians of conscience who are committed to reforming this nation must recognise that a viable opposition is essential and now is the time to support it. For the pro-reform parties in society to work together effectively, they must find common ground, be open to communication and collaboration, and resist the temptation to scapegoat other races for their problems and frustrations.

Divided our voice is weak. But united and enlightened, we can together build a nation that we all can be truly be proud of, and one in which we can live in peace and harmony.

ANWAR IBRAHIM http://anwaribrahim.com/site/

Wednesday 21 November 2007

The PAS factor - A Viable Alternative?

DAP to go it alone if PKR works with PAS The Star: Monday, November 19, 2007 PENANG: The DAP will work with Parti Keadilan Rakyat at the next general election only if the PKR disassociates itself from PAS. DAP national chairman Karpal Singh said the party wants PKR de factor leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to publicly declare that he will not work with PAS. “The DAP is for a secular state, not an Islamic state. If Anwar chooses to be silent on the matter, the DAP is ready to fight without the PKR,” he said at a dinner organised by the DAP Bukit Bendera division on Saturday.
=================================



The matters that I wish to write are simply personal opinions. None of them are uncontested "truths", and are subject to debate and correction/ alteration. I do not mean to "accuse" any relevant party/parties of the things mentioned here - these are perceptions and personal opinions, based on "current events". Allow me to digress a little ....

At present, the most powerful opposition party in the parliament is actually PAS, considering the fact that they hold sway among the conservative Malay- Muslim populace, even though it is Mr. Lim Kit Siang who frequently voices for the opposition.
He is for all practical purposes, at present, just a "showpiece" for Democracy (Malaysian Style).

He is often subjected to derogatory and humiliating remarks from MPs from the ruling coalition. It beats me as to why he puts up with such infantile behaviour from such chauvinistic ignoramuses we call "YB"s. If at all politics were my line, and I were an MP in sitting I would stage a walk-out the moment these "lovers of monkeys" misbehave in the "august house".

(Politics is definitely not my line - never was, and never will be - considering the fact that I will never ever subscribe to sectarian/ racial/ religious politics of this country, which is the legacy of colonial divide-and-rule policies! Malaysia is a country divided along sectarian lines as a result despite all the political spins about being "peaceful, tolerant, united and progressive".)


Anyway, getting back to the subject of discussion - The PAS Factor. Is it really an alternative which the Malay electorate offer the "Kufr"? If they believe it to be so, so be it - and I wish to discuss it.

Let me start by saying, there is no doubt in my mind whatsoever, that Tok Guru Mursyidul Am Nik Aziz and Tok Guru Hadi are truly gems - they would put to shame a lot of us out here through their sincerity in wanting a truly civil society. However, that is far from what concerns the nation as a whole.

Having been in parliament for such a long time, and being "veterans" at being the opposition, I do not recall much of any issues of financial, social, national or international interest which PAS has fought for - please pardon my ignorance, if this this isn't the case, and I wish to be enlightened.

Discussions of universal human rights would be lost on the wise ulamas of PAS, simply becos they prefer to perceive the world from the perspective of one from age, long gone.
They do not believe in universal human rights, simply because, from their perspective the Muslim individual should be accorded special privileges under Islamic laws.
They do not believe in freedom of thought.
Neither do they subscribe to freedom of worship.
They do not believe, that it is my right as an individual Human Being under "God-given rights" to be a Hindu, Christian, Zoroastrian or Muslim, as and when I please, even if I'm confused! They do not believe that it is my right to be an "apostate", as and when I choose - and it isn't their right to persecute me for it!
They of course say that "God" says otherwise!

Debates on these issues with the ulamas would have them refer to scriptures, instead of common sense, to argue their point on "righteousness" -
they'd obviously say, "...... because, the good book says so and it is God's law!"
It is quite obvious from the earlier discussion (go to archives), that most of PAS supporters are mesmerized by their charisma and religious fervour, and are thus taken up by them. Little do they understand the implications of PAS policy - the socio-economic implications of their Islamist agenda.

Allow me to post a few questions I had posted in the discussion mentioned, again -

PAS,
-Don't you realize that your policies are exclusivistic?
-Don't you realize that you are the ones keeping BN in power?
-That you are instrumental to their existence?
-That you complement their intentions?
-How many of you actually understand and are tolerant of the sentiments, culture, religions and lifestyle of the Kufr?
(By this I do not mean the negligible Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Perlis and Pahang populace).
-Do you intend to start policies of Islamic this and Islamic that?
-Do you plan to impose nationwide dress code and gender segregation should you gain power?
-Would you endeavour to abolish "immoral" entertainment outlets?
-What about education? Wanna promote madrasahs?
-Take a good look at your policies and ask yourselves - Are you the Trojan Horse party?

I didn't receive any replies to these simple concerns, and so I didn't pursue the issue, or ask questions on more complex matters. Maybe these questions were too "insignificant" or simplistic for them ... I wouldn't know.
Sadly, after a year discussing about this issue, the only flimsy arguments I get from them are the standard - "Oh so you'd rather have UMNO corruption ....", "What is there to fear?", "Islamic law aka Syariah is righteous and just", "Look PAS has built (or allowed the building of) some Buddha statues", "Ask the Chinese of Kelantan ....." and so on and so forth.

To think that the supporters of the Islamic State platform, should not understand the sentiments and insecurity that they fear under such a system, is mind boggling, to say the least. All of them point to Kelantan - as to how peaceful and harmonious it is! However, just seeing the "prosperity" of the common man on the streets of Kota Baru,( at least, based on the cars in the capital Township), sends shivers down my spine ......
Most Malay-Muslim PAS/ opposition supporters are willing to trade-off principles of justice, becos they wish to weaken UMNO Baru - not becos they believe in their cause. Their reasonings for working with PAS are too simplistic, and absolutely makes no sense. To that end, I believe Mr. Karpal's stand on PAS's Islamic state issue is justified.

Malaysians are basically politically illiterate - they know very little about socio-political issues and are easily manipulated due to their ignorance. It has been the intention of those in power to keep it that way by being the only ones who would be able to relay "the truth" via the media under their thumb.

The general public in Malaysia are so easily manipulated via "financial incentives" or religious fervor, that they have become complacent and behave like the illiterate masses coming from rural India. I'm sorry, I believe the rural masses in India are more politically aware despite their illiteracy - maybe Africa would be a better choice .....

This in itself sets a very dangerous precedent, as the electorate wouldn't be able to exercise their constitutional right to an "informed choice".

This elementary issue is (from my perspective) the main issue, which lies at the heart of all the democratic institutions of the world - making an "informed choice". Not casting the ballot, or indelible ink! This was in fact at the heart of the BERSIH march on 10/11/07. Without freedom of speech, information and media, there can be no democracy, no matter how many Lim Kit Siangs, Karpal Singhs, Hadi or Nazis scream their guts out at monkeys in parliament - for God , King and Country (or maybe Bangsa, Agama dan Negara)!

Once the electorate is able to make an "informed choice", everything else would fall into place - and the key to it all is a free media, and free discussions on socio-political or philosophical matters. This in itself would set the ball rolling for a social and political awakening, and would bring about a "renaissance" among the electorate. It beats me, how a PAS government would allow this, when they speak for an Islamic state.

Having said that, I would stress here that, should PAS be able to work out a solution, and guarantee all of us these universal human rights, I wouldn't deny them my vote, should the situation warrant it.

As things are, I'm not so sure if I'd like to have a candidate with whom I cannot discuss "certain issues" of concern to me, because "God says so ...".
I guess I'll just have to wait and see what the Malay-Muslim Malaysians (aka the "real Malaysians" whose god-given "rights" are unquestionable under an unsigned "social contract" in the current system) decide for the future - peaceful evolution or revolution!

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
"While we accord high priority to social and economic rights, we must at the same time guard ourselves from stretching the argument too far. Development cannot be used as an apology for authoritarianism. The fact of the matter is that more nations have been impoverished by authoritarianism than enriched by it. By not giving vent to the vices of dissent, wrongs cannot be made right and remedies for failures cannot be made available," said Anwar.

"Thus the notion that freedom must be sacrificed on the altar of development must be rejected. It is our conviction that only through the ability of every individual, however weak or disadvantaged, to freely articulate his fears and grievances can we hope to bring about a just and caring society. Only by guaranteeing the individual's right to participate fully in society's decision-making processes can we confer legitimacy to political leadership and governance, for government derives their just powers from the consent of the governed."

- Anwar Ibrahim,University of the Philippines Law Centre's Institute of Human Rights,1994

Tuesday 20 November 2007

Discussion on MT - PAS factor

DAP to go it alone if PKR works with PAS
The Star: Monday, November 19, 2007

PENANG: The DAP will work with Parti Keadilan Rakyat at the next general election only if the PKR disassociates itself from PAS. DAP national chairman Karpal Singh said the party wants PKR de factor leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to publicly declare that he will not work with PAS. “The DAP is for a secular state, not an Islamic state. If Anwar chooses to be silent on the matter, the DAP is ready to fight without the PKR,” he said at a dinner organised by the DAP Bukit Bendera division on Saturday.
==========================================================

The following was the discussion on the above matter, in the comments section on Malaysia today.
I have focussed on my responses to points raised by some other commenters and my doubts about PAS. Not that I'm anti-Islam or anything .....
It is just that it is my opinion that many are taken up by PAS member's charisma and nothing more. Most of the PAS supporters actually know little or nothing about PAS's motives, manifesto or modus operandi. I could be wrong, and I certainly wish I were. If only one of them could come forward and give me enough proof of the "lies" disseminated by the PAS detractors about the much publicized cliche of "Islamofascism" and bigotry, I would be the first to actually vote for them.

So here goes the discussion that took place on MT - comments were taken from two different pages discussing the same issue.
(To read the relevant articles and comments click here and here.)


zanie wrote:
What is it that you are so afraid of the islamic state? The law of Islam applies to muslim only! you may choose the British law if you like because in Islam , we punished muslim to safe them from the god's wrath hereafter.and if you study hard the law that we inherit came from lord reid, which comes from british and goes further back to the bible.

Open your eyes wide folks! If you are not a criminal then nobody will punish you blatantly according to islamic law. not like BN's law that even Tun muhamad Suffian was afraid if he was innocent!

cruzeiro wrote:
So the bickerings begin, and it beats the Muslims mind why their laws are abhorred by the Kufr ......

LOL!

Islamic State, Syaria, - Wow! Malaysia has come up with the perfect Islamic state formula!
I wonder why the citizens of the world aren't clamouring to become citizens of Islamic states of the world, zanie .....

Indeed - Open your eyes wide folks!

If you are not a criminal then nobody will punish you blatantly according to islamic law.

BTW, The perceptions of a crime would depend on who sits to judge you using outdated tribal laws. And you women may take comfort that you'll be stoned to death should you seduce men who rape you! LOL!

Bukit Chandan wrote:
To effect the proper changes, the Opposition must be united. Put aside differences and work on common grounds for a better Malaysia in the future.

Do not let the betrayers of Truth & Justice capitalize on this issue.

Best Regards.........
bukit.chandan@gmail.com

cruzeiro wrote:
Do not let the betrayers of Truth & Justice capitalize on this issue.
========================

Islamists worldwide are known to betray secular constitutions, once they achieve power.

In fact, it is the recommended modus operandi ...

So are we to risk the betrayal of the constitution by the newcomer, should they win?

Or are we just supposed to just support them to increase the Islamist opposition, so as to bolster the Islamisation policy?

Once these laws are enacted, there usually will be no turning back, and the electorate would be driven to conflict and polarisation, due to the parallel systems of justice - not to mention enhanced "moral policing".

Doesn't sound very appealing to me!

Quite a Catch-22 .....

Meanwhile we can rest assured of UMNO - dulu, kini dan selamanya.

As long as the thorn of the Islamist's agenda remains, - Hidup UMNO, Hidup MCA, Hidup MIC, Gerakan, PPP, BN!

So let's all have fun while the going is good - just stop debating about some hard-headed moronic policy, and stop dreaming of a strong credible opposition. You could even forget voting!

Cheers!

cruzeiro wrote:
PAS,
-Don't you realize that your policies are exclusivistic?
-Don't you realize that you are the ones keeping BN in power?
-That you are instrumental to their existence?
-That you complement their intentions?
-How many of you actually understand and are tolerant of the sentiments, culture, religions and lifestyle of the Kufr?
(By this I do not mean the negligible Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah, Perlis and Pahang populace).
-Do you intend to start policies of Islamic this and Islamic that?
-Do you plan to impose nationwide dress code and gender segregation should you gain power?
-Would you endeavour to abolish "immoral" entertainment outlets?
-What about education? Wanna promote madrasahs?
-Take a good look at your policies and ask yourselves - Are you the Trojan Horse party?

cruzeiro wrote:
PAS, DAP and PKR should draw up a "social contract" - then they stand a chance.

The question would be if PAS can be trusted to relax on their Islamization policies, should they win more than the others.

Without a "social contract in writing", there is no way in hell that an opposition front can even dream up one third of the seats on Dewan Rakyat.

Salmah wrote:
I think UMNO has succeeded in frightening the non Muslim to accept PAS. What are you afraid of guys, should PAS behave badly once they are in power with the others, just vote them out after 5 years. By fighting with each other you guys are allowing UMNO and BA to continue being in power. Is that what we want?
HIDUP BERSEH!!!

cruzeiro wrote:
Salmah,
That is where you are wrong - all it takes is bad enough behaviour once, for laws to be enacted.
Once religious laws are passed, they are almost impossible to be ammended - hey, after all, they are "God's" laws - and there'll be no turning back from the slippery slope ....

bat8 wrote:
Look jumlah kerusi parlimen yang akan ditandingi kebanyakannya di kelantan, kedah, terengganu. Itupun bukan keseluruhan kerana berkongsi dengan PKR, jika DAP mahu bertanding di kelantan dan yakin boleh menang, PAS akan beri juga. Minoriti seats di lain-lain negeri.

Sebahagian besar kerusi parlimen akan ditandingi oleh PKR,DAP dan lain-lain parti pembangkang yang menyertai pakatan.

Jika pakatan pembangkang menang, PAS hanya akan menjadi minoriti dalam kerajaan. Jadi macamana PAS mahu menjadikan negara ini negara islam. Terok sangatkah negara islam? Tidakkah kita sekarang ini berada dalam negara islam hadhari?

Jika PAS berkeras juga mahu mendirikan negara islam, tendang sahaja mereka keluar dari kerajaan. Apalah yang mereka boleh buat jika sekadar hanya memerintah kelantan dan terengganu?

Keupayaan PAS untuk menubuhkan negara Islam dalam senario sekarang adalah sesuatu yang amat sukar kalau tidak pun mustahil melainkan mereka menubuhkan kerajaan secara mutlak dengan majoriti 2/3 atau lebih. Now can PAS achive that?

Jika katakan PAS berjaya menubuhkan kerajaan federal secara sendiri, mereka perlu terlebih dahulu meminda perlembagaan malaysia bagi menjadikan negara Islam. Mereka hanya boleh berbuat demikian jika mereka menang dengan majoriti 2/3 atau lebih. Kerusi yang mereka tandingi pun tak sampai separuh! bagaimana nak dapat majoriti 2/3?
Jadi alasan cruzeiro samalah alasan karpal singh. Cruzeiro bolehlah kita maafkan tapi karpal singh mustahil tidak tahu hakikat keupayaan PAS menubuhkan negara Islam berdasarkan keupayaan PAS dalam pilihanraya2 sebelum ini.

Cruzeiro, usahlah buang masa dengan membangkitkan isu yang almost impossible akan terjadi. tenaga dan usaha kita terlalu mahal untuk dibazirkan membahas isu yang tak mungkin terjadi.

Gembelingkan usaha kita untuk mengajak rakyat dari semua kaum menyokong usaha untuk menewaskan BN dalam pilihanraya yang akan datang.

cruzeiro wrote:
Cruzeiro, usahlah buang masa dengan membangkitkan isu yang almost impossible akan terjadi. tenaga dan usaha kita terlalu mahal untuk dibazirkan membahas isu yang tak mungkin terjadi.
===============

bat8,
bukan niat saya utk membawa isu yang "tak mungkin jadi" - niat saya adalah utk membincangkan niat PAS!

Niat PAS agak sukar dipercayai, sebab mereka ni berfungsi sebagai "trojan horse" buat "perikatan". Dengan sentimen Islamist mereka, sudah tentu pihak Kufr yg mereka kutuk tak habis2 itu tidak akan menerima mereka. Oleh itu, agak sukar utk satu gabungan politik dgn yg lain. Gabungan sebegitu akan menjadi terlalu rumit.

Kalau ya pun, tidak mungkin stabil, kerana mereka hanya membohongi diri mereka dgn agenda mereka yg tersendiri.
Membantu PAS dlm pilihanraya semata2 kerana nak usir UmnoBaru, tidak akan memberi apa2 manafaat - cuma akan menambahkan "sentimen Islamist" org Melayu, dan mengubah haluan UmnoBaru kearah Islamist agenda, kerana ingin bertanding keIslaman dgn PAS!

Usah gunakan beberapa tokong atau kuil yg dibina buat publisiti, sebagai contoh - ini akan berubah jika mereka terpaksa menilai org Kufr dlm situasi lain.

Cuba jawab soalan2 yg saya tanya sebelum jawaban pada Salmah tadi, dan suruh PAS buat pendirian tetap mengenai "nilai2 murni" mereka ..... lepas tu, sama2 kita "turun padang", ya!

Jika parti lain nak bertanding, sepatutnya mereka bertanding utk menjadi kerajaan dan bukan pembangkang. Dan utk menang, seharusnya mereka semua tidak menerima langsung lagu "sectarian politics" yg sedang dimainkan oleh BN.

This Islamist agenda was started by the ulama who took over PAS in the 80s during TDM's time. And it was a very good ploy to strengthen his grip on power, with the support of the Chinese.

Apa lah yg PAS takut sgt dgn sistem sekular ..... adake org halang mereka pakai serban, jadi alim, sembahyang atau menjadi seorang yg mukmin? Salahke kalau mereka menyokong sistem sekular?

Hang pikiaq sendiri .....

bat8 wrote:

cruziero...saya tidak perlu menambah apa yang telah saya tulis kerana jawapan anda hanya berdasar andaian yang tidak berpijak pada realiti yang ada di negara ini. Perkara yang dibangkitkan adalah lame atempt untuk menjustifikasikan hayalan anda dengan hujah-hujah umum yang anda sendiri sukar hendak mempercayai .

Btw, pembinaan tokong budhaa dibachok yang baru bukan publisiti. Ia menjadi publisiti apabila PAS sendiri mendirikan patung tersebut dan menhadiahkan masyarakat yang berugama budhaa. Btw, sleeping budhaa, patung budhaa yang terbesar di asia tenggara bukan dibina oleh kerajaan PAS sekarang. Patung itu telah lama wujud sejak pemerintahan PAS dari tahun 1959 - 1978. How come ia menjadi publisiti sedangkan ia telah lama dibina?

Now, boleh explain mengapa pembinaan patung dewa Ma Tzu di sabah menjadi masalah?


cruzeiro wrote:

Bat8,
You masih belum menjawab soalan2 yang saya kemukan mengenai pendirian PAS.

Usahlah nak bawak cerita patung buddha lagi .....

Niat PAS dan modus operandi mereka amat penting - bukan sekadar nak tendang org skg aje, beb ....

Takkanlah nak menggelabah bila dia org dah "power" - kalau I undi dia org, I nak paham niat mereka - in black & white!

Kalu nak buat gabungan politik dgn mereka tanpa menerima hakikat yg sebenarnya, umpama menegakkan benang basah!
20/11 20:37:24

bat8 wrote:

cruziero...yang membohongi diri sendiri adalah anda.

Pada masa rakyat malaysia yang selama ini dipisahkan atas dasar perkauman dan ugama, dilaga-lagakan antara satu kaum dengan kaum yang lain selama 50 tahun, mendapat satu suntikan semangat untuk bersatu menentang kezaliman dan membina masa depan yang lebih saksama- anda muncul membawa roterik basi yang kita dicanang oleh UMNO sejak 50 tahun lalu.

Hujah-hujah umum yang berlapiskan ugutan yang dah basi anda bawa nampak sangat senada dan seirama dengan hujah dan propaganda UMNO sejak 50 tahun lalu.

Kami rakyat malaysia: melayu, cina,indian, kadazan dll telah mendapat semangat baru untuk bersama-sama menentang kezaliman selama ini.

so juallah hujah basi yang general anda kat zimbabwe ke kerana robert mugabe sedang dalam keadaan tertekan sekarang. Rakyat malaysia dah tak termakan dengan tipu helah murahan begini.


cruzeiro wrote:

bat8,
Mana tipunya? Mana helahnya?
Siapa yang membawa isu keagamaan - saya ke PAS?

Maksud you, you anggap isu keagamaan dan bangsa tidak patut dibawa ke medan politik?

Kalau begitu, bagus - saya pun sehaluan jugak!

BTW, kenapa hang belum jawab lagi soalan soalan yg saya kemukakan tadi?
20/11 20:48:16

=====================================
Note: It appears that bat8, is lost in his defense of the PAS agenda, and is starting to get abusive.
=====================================

cruzeiro wrote:

Okay bat8 - I'm outta here!
Nice discussing with you.

Let's hope something good works out for the good of the nation.

Cheers.

bat8 wrote:

cruziero... I tak represent PAS dan tidak mempunyai autoriti untuk menjawab bagi pihak PAS. I hanyalah rakyat biasa yang ingin bersama-sama rakyat lain membina masa depan negara ini yang lebih baik.

Nak dapat jawapan per****h ke ibupejabat PAS di jalan raja laut kl. Kat situ timbalan presiden PAS ada, setiausaha agung PAS ada, mereka-mereka yang boleh menjawab soalan hangpa dengan jelas dan yang mewakili pandangan PAS. Sebab tu depa bukak pejabat tengah-tengah KL supaya senang oarang seperti hang pergi berjumpa untuk mendapat penjelasan.

Kat sana hang boleh bawa hujah-hujah basi yang dibawa oleh UMNo untuk menakutkan rakyat rakyat selama ini untuk mendapat penjelasan.

======================================

So ends the discussion I had with bat8 and a couple of others .....

Sunday 18 November 2007

Progress of a Nation - the flip-side.


We are a great people who have built the tallest towers, biggest, longest, flashiest this & that, sent a man to everest, the north pole, space and what not (never mind that it was all by proxy), but cannot seem to live without making asses of ourselves in the eyes of the world. We seem to be obsessed with keeping up appearances of affluence, while wallowing in muck.


We are a unique kind of people - yes I include myself in this special category of mankind ..... mea culpa.

The economy is in tatters, crime at epidemic proportions, health in the pits, security forces apparently feuding, judiciary - disgraced, criminals - awarded, politicians incapable of debate, media - the powerful politician's footstool, education - substandard, and a leadership that wouldn't welcome challenges. All these, while we have catchy phrased campaigns of a Glokal, cemerlang, gemilang, terbilang and "spaced-out" (angkasakan bangsa) race - all C4-ed into oblivion, when one looks beneath the shiny surface. And yet we promote personality cults, for politicians.

As if to illustrate this state of denial, some, have made bold statements in the international media that amounted to - “we need to improve, but don't need to change the system” - that was indeed quite amusing, to say the least. Will Durant once said, "Education is the progressive discovery of our ignorance" - no, not for these guys - they are our elite!

Gone are the days when we embraced values deemed "western" – free debate, free media, free enterprise, competition, accountability, economic sustainability and succession planning- that would've actually made this nation an economic powerhouse that it should have been; if nothing else, simply by virtue of its strategic location on the world map.

People tend to seek simplistic solutions to complex problems when they are devoid of ideas , intellect and reason. It is through the suppression of critical thought that dictators perpetuate their rule. The lack of intellectual philosophical insight into social maladies that plague our nation, render us vulnerable to exploitation and would lead to our fall.

It happens when a people indulge themselves in the delusion of grandeur, that all is well. It happens when a leadership is so consumed by its own "greatness", that it boasts and gloats even of its shortcomings. Any attempt towards reason is perceived as anti-establishment. Faults and ills are “glossed over” in the interest of "maintaining social order".

Such is the extent of philosophical and intellectual bankruptcy that we are faced with. Most, if not all leaders that we have, would sell-out their convictions with the blink of an eye, should it justify the desire to "make a living". As TDM once quoted - “Every man has his price”. Gone are the ideals of the nation's forefathers, that shaped the nation. Greed has become the sin that most of us indulge in today - a sin that is actually perpetuated by the leaders of today. This is "our way", today.

Greed and selfishness have always been used by the powerful, as a weapon to control others. Today, it is used on the ignorant rakyat and those entrusted by the people to preserve our independence and freedom. We as a people have sacrificed our freedom at the altar of economic gains, which doesn't necessarily translate into progress. We often readily sell our souls for material gain due to greed, which is today part of our culture. We have become sitting ducks to the political elite, who strive to increase their control over our daily lives.

These sins of greed and covetousness have become part of all of us - some have embraced it more than others. Malaysians would sell their souls for freebies and "favours". It is a deadly disease that has been inflicted upon certain "leaders" and people alike, via policies that actually cater to the powerful elite in society. The masses swallow the political spins in a drunken stupor, oblivious to their enslavement in the hustle and bustle of “modern lifestyle”.

So easily appeased is the average Malaysian, that they prefer to be blind to the truth, for the sake of “saving face”, comforts, pride, allegiance to authority, social order, "making a living" and maybe for a plate of "nasi goreng" or KFC. Incidently, all these things are apparently essential components to the much touted "Asian Values" ....

That is how cheap we have become.

We are a nation full of people who are sick to the bone, due to the addiction to instant gratification and symptomatic solutions. We are therefore a nation of appeasers, and not fighters. We are a nation enslaved by delusions of grandeur and persecution.

We are not just socio-politically ill, morally decadent, spiritually lost and philosophically bankrupt - we even have among the highest rates of physical illnesses, as a result of lifestyles encouraged by the "leaders".

We are today, a people so disillusioned by our lives, that we just seek short cuts to escape from it. We scramble for anything that provides that elusive "peace of mind", so that we get those moments of refuge- to escape from the problems that plague us. Religion, vice, luxury, drugs or any of the seven deadly sins become “fair game”. We are a people clamoring for hope and direction, in a nation with a new culture devoid of reason. Having lost control of our lives we beg to be controlled, by the luxuries and pleasures we deem necessary. We gawk in fascination at the shine of the cage built around us, unaware of our emasculation and imprisonment.

It remains to be seen if our leadership has the will to snap out of this “syndrome of denial”. Or else, in due time, by 2057, as a result of the NEP, sooner or later, natural selection will play its role. A sick nation cannot preserve its independence, and identity.

Friday 16 November 2007

"Asian Values" 101

At the time the term "Asian values" began to appear in the mass media, the scholar de Bary, who has spent more than 50 years studying Asian civilizations (including China, Japan, Korea, and India) was asked "What are Asian values?", he did not know how to answer. He has never heard of this term. It was not in the literature. Asians were not conscious that they have such common values in the past. It is highly likely that such Asian values are political constructions. (de Bary 1998: p. 1)
-The Alleged Asian Values and Their Implications for Bioethics
- Kam-por Yu, Ph.D.
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

With the above, allow me to begin by saying that the idea of "Asian Values" is nothing but Hogwash - a political spin articulated by authoritarian regimes of the third-world nations, to legitimize and strengthen their grip on power. They use this excuse also disguised as Confucianism, Family values, Islamic Laws, Morality and many more.

At the heart of this argument lies one undeniable "asian value" - hypocrisy! It is this undoubtedly Asian value that is used every so often to perpetuate a make believe orderly society, where-in the problems of the day is often swept under the carpet to "save face" (which by the way, is an Asian value).
Corruption, rape incest, cronyism, theft, murder, apostasy, honor and in fact almost anything and everything that is evil is tolerated to "save face" on the part of the one in a position of power - not the victim who is supposed to be protected.

It was an excuse for despots to thumb their noses at the "west", with their economic gains in the last 30yrs or so, despite the absence of real freedom in these countries, that "boasted" an apparently hard working, disciplined, politically docile and subservient "social order".

When there is opposition or expression of discontent in public, the people are frowned upon by authorities that claim that "It is not our way of doing things .... we prefer 'polite negotiated settlements' .... " which in actuality means "arbitration/ bribery behind closed doors". By doing so, leaders of dissent are often "bought out" or "blackmailed" into submission to authorities who ultimately seek to perpetuate the rule.

Leaders who espouse "Asian Values" often say, "we have laws by which the people have to abide" - sure, we should!
Provided the laws are just and not manipulated to the advantage of oppressors.
To say that concerns of society takes precedence over the individual in all cases, is very much a "misguided" statement or policy, for it is individuals that have brought out these ideas of "Asian Values" and have convinced society as a whole.

It should be brought to light that these very proponents of "asian values", often quickly abandon these principles when they are faced with economic gain via competition, but backtrack when it comes to politics and freedom.

Free and healthy debate of opinions and ideas is as much a value that should be preserved as are filial piety and respect for authority. So are freedom of speech and media.

I was quite perplexed to say the least, on hearing the differences in opinion between En. Nazri and En. Khairy on 101 East (Al-Jazeera) last night- While En. Nazri says that the system has worked for fifty years and doesn't need an "overhaul", En. Khairy (despite being the apologist) says that it works but has room for improvement!

It appeared that En. Khairy at least isn't as blind to the truths and has chosen to play both sides of the fence.
By saying that the media should be able to "regulate itself", instead of being regulated by the government in due time, while En. Nazri comes out boldly to say that the press is free to write what they wish, could En Khairy have unwittingly exposed the "lie of a free press in Malaysia"?
Or was it done on purpose to illustrate the difference of opinion within the hierarchy? Could there be a shift in the policies, given the western influences in En Khairy? Could he have been "restrained" on the international stage by his alma mater?
And I wonder if he thought of postal votes while bragging about the "teasing-off" of ghosts on the electoral rolls and indelible ink ...........

While En. Nazri was gloating about the "democratic rule of the Majority", was he aware that the true test of a democracy lies in taking care of minority rights? Did he think that the system that he represents is perfection manifested, that he believes that it couldn't be changed or improved on? Hasn't he heard that the only thing that he cannot change is "change" itself and that is the only way to progress?

Come what may, it would be prudent for all Asians to bear in mind that there has been no social system or order that is infallible in the face of human evolution.

It is very much an "Asian Value", Islamic value, Confucian Value and a democratic too to seek justice.
To that end, individuality and an expression of dissent is very much an "Asian Value".

I follow up the above with quotes from a few essays. I have decided against publishing my work on this topic, as it would be tiresome to most. The links I promised, have all got mixed-up - so I apologize for not providing them (Just google "asian values" and you'll find them).

Thank you.



"While we accord high priority to social and economic rights, we must at the same time guard ourselves from stretching the argument too far. Development cannot be used as an apology for authoritarianism. The fact of the matter is that more nations have been impoverished by authoritarianism than enriched by it. By not giving vent to the vices of dissent, wrongs cannot be made right and remedies for failures cannot be made available," said Anwar.

"Thus the notion that freedom must be sacrificed on the altar of development must be rejected. It is our conviction that only through the ability of every individual, however weak or disadvantaged, to freely articulate his fears and grievances can we hope to bring about a just and caring society. Only by guaranteeing the individual's right to participate fully in society's decision-making processes can we confer legitimacy to political leadership and governance, for government derives their just powers from the consent of the governed."

- Anwar Ibrahim,University of the Philippines Law Centre's Institute of Human Rights,1994

"However, as an Asian observer noted: ''When I first came across Lee's list of supposed Asian values, I saw values that were not so much specific to Asian culture but good British upper class Tory values dear to threatened elites everywhere." It was not without good reason that one British cabinet minister once referred to Lee, when he still was known as Harry Lee, as the ''best bloody Englishman east of Suez".

Not to be outdone by Lee is Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who combined an attractive Third World critique of Western economic domination with a strident equation of liberal democracy with anarchy and Western imperialism. The classic is Mahathir's statement in this regard with his speech at the United Nations in 1991, in which he asserted:

''If democracy means to carry guns, to flaunt homosexuality, to disregard the institutions of marriage, to disrupt and damage the well-being of the community in the name of individual rights, to destroy a particular faith, to have privileged institutions [ie the Western press] which are sacrosanct even if they indulge in lies and instigations which undermine society, the economy, and international relations; to permit foreigners to break national laws; if they are the essential details, can't the news converts opt to reject them? Hegemony by democratic powers is no less oppressive than hegemony by totalitarian states.""

- THI LAM (Pacific News Service), THE NOTION OF "ASIAN VALUES" IS A MYTH


"In light of the severe recession that has gripped Asia in 1997-98, the collapse of the paternalistic Asian authoritarian government in Indonesia, and political instability in Malaysia itself, these arguments now ring hollow, and it is safe to say that "Asian values" have not figured prominently in the analysis and interpretation of the crisis. Lee Kwan Yew has publicly backed away from some of his earlier assertions, and many observers now claim that that Asian values, far from explaining Asia's economic success, lie at the root of the cronyism and corruption afflicting countries there." - Francis Fukuyama, ICAS Fall Symposium, Asia'sChallenges Ahead, University of Pennsylvania, September 29, 1998



Blogging debate - Al-Jazeera, 101 East

Wednesday 14 November 2007

Thinking About Human Rights and Asian Values

(Note: I'm currently at work trying to verify my opinions that Asian Values is nothing but a political spin for "Asian Despotism" also called "Oriental Despotism" - the chief proponents of which were Tun Dr. Mahathir and Mr. Lee Kuan Yew. There is another essay, wherein Mr. Sen specifically points out LKY's (and Li Peng's) ignorance of facts.
This is the first in the series that I publish as an introduction to the topic. Further readings will be given as links, when I write my piece in a couple of days. Thank You)

Human Rights Dialogue 1.4 (Spring 1996): "Three Years After The Bangkok Declaration"

Amartya Sen


While it might not be clear what "Asian values" are, they seem to have gained a place in the standard analysis of contemporary events. In a provocative essay, entitled "Japan's Nice New Nationalism," published in 1995, the Economist poses a question in a rather stark form—a query that has often been stated, albeit less clearly: "Is the combination of nationalist confidence and a growing economic interest in Asia likely to pose a threat?"*2* The threat referred to relates to the concerns of the Western countries. The reference here is not only to—not even primarily to—Japan's dominance in trade and world markets, but to Japan's possible role in tolerating and supporting some policies and practices in Asia that may be quite unacceptable in the West. The Economist identifies "human rights and press freedoms" as "the most frequent battlegrounds."

This way of seeing the "clash of cultures" is increasingly prevalent now. But to see the conflict over human rights as a battle between Western liberalism on one side and Asian reluctance on the other is to cast the debate in a form that distracts attention from the central issues, which concern Asia itself. In the battle over the role of human rights and such matters as press freedom (a battle that is certainly forceful in contemporary Asia), the primary parties are Asians of different interests and convictions, even if occasionally a visiting American might get caned in an Asian country. This is not to deny that America or Europe has legitimate reasons to worry about the outcome of this and related contentions about ideas and politics in Asia (I have nothing against the Economist posing this "Western" question—one of some interest to its readers), but this dispute over principles and practice is really about the lives of Asians—their beliefs and traditions, their rules and regulations, their achievements and failures, and ultimately their lives and freedoms. The Western concern—legitimate on its own—may even contribute to misspecifying the central features of the debate.

There is a further reason for removing this debate from the perspective of Western anxiety about Asian practice. That often-invoked perspective gives the immediate impression that the primacy of human rights is a fundamental and ancient feature of Western culture, and one not to be found in Asia. It is, as it were, a contrast between the authoritarianism allegedly implicit in, say, Confucianism vis-à-vis the respect for individual liberty allegedly deeply rooted in Western culture. There are good historical reasons to doubt each of the two claims implicit in the contrast. As to when the notion of individual liberty first became explicit in the West, Isaiah Berlin has noted: "I have found no convincing evidence of any clear formulation of it in the ancient world."*3* And insofar as we do find arguments championing freedoms in some generic sense in ancient Greek treatises (as we clearly do, for example, in Aristotle's Politics and also in Nicomachean Ethics), it is not hard to discover comparable championing of generically described freedoms and tolerance in the writings of many Asian theorists, such as Ashoka, whose inscriptions from the third century b.c. emphasize tolerance and liberty as central values of a good society. Indeed, the rhetoric of freedom is abundantly invoked in many of the Asian literatures. Buddha even explains nirvana in the language of "freedom," to wit, the freedom from the miseries of life. If there is a real gap today in the acceptance of freedom and liberty in the West vis-à-vis those in Asia, the roots of a hard division lie much closer to our times.

Nor is it helpful to see the contrast in terms of the practical traditions of "Oriental despotism" that had once so fascinated European scholars in the heyday of the historial emergence of democratic commitments of the West. If the despots of the Orient were more despotic than those in the West (it is not obvious that this was the case), the political limits of today's Asia are not clearly bound by those traditions—not any more than the political possibilities in Europe are confined by the heritage of the Spanish Inquisition or the history of Nazi genocide.

Many Western commentators find it deeply unacceptable that some people who argue against human rights in Asia try to gain inspiration from specific interpretations of "Asian values." This is an understandable concern, but that search for inspiration is a close cousin of the tendency in the West to see ideas of democracy and liberty specifically in terms of "Western" traditions. Even the language used in recommending to Asia what is called "Western democracy" imposes a geographical mode of divisiveness that springs not only from Asian intransigence but also from Western "priority complex." If the grabbing of "Asian values" by the champions of authoritarianism has to be effectively and fairly questioned, what is needed is not the claim—often implicit—of the superiority of what are taken as Western values, but a broader historical study of Sanskrit, Pali, Chinese, Arabic, and other Asian literatures (in relation to corresponding writings in the Western classics). And nearer our times, acknowledgment would have to be made to the contributions of national leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi or Dr. Sun Yat-sen, who were, already a hundred years ago, cogently vocal in defense of the widest forms of democracy and political and civil rights.

I am not, of course, disputing that at a truly deep level, cultural comparisons based on real history could be extremely interesting in diagnosing the balance of focal concerns in different regional traditions in the world and in dealing with the principles and reasonings that have a bearing on the contemporary formulations of human rights. But neither the rapid invoking of "Asian values" in defense of suppressing human rights, nor the expression of Western anxiety and consternation about "Asian" ways, helps to advance critical scrutiny of the role of human rights and their consequences in Asian societies. The subject has a contingently regional dimension, but it is not a foundationally regional issue.

*1* This is an excerpt of a paper entitled "Human Rights and Economic Achievements," presented at the Hakone Workshop of the Human Rights Initiative, June 23-26, 1995.
*2* "Japan's Nice New Nationalism," Economist, January 14, 1995, p. 13.
*3* Isaiah Berlin, Four Essays on Liberty (Oxford: Oxford university Press, 1969), p. xl. Even as far as the idea of democracy itself is concerned,as Benjamin Schwartz notes, "in China, the model of the natural and sacred hierarchy of the patrilear family may have lenbt its own coloration to the concepts of hierarchy and authority, but we must again remember that even in the history of the West, with its memories of Athenian democracy, the notion that democracy cannot be implemented in large territorial states requiring highly centralized power remained accepted wisdom as late as Montesquieu and Rousseau." ( The World of Thought in Ancient China [Cambridge: Harvard university Press, 1985], 69).

Monday 12 November 2007

A Social Contract of "Asian Values".



We've all heard of many things related to the much cherished and lauded "Asian Values".
But just what is it really?
Is our "social contract" also part of this value system?
Is there any system at all to these cherished values in the first place?

As I listened to Pak Lah make his winding up address, I wondered if this much touted phrase "Pantang dicabar" is very much part of this social contract or Asian Values ....

What does "pantang dicabar" actually mean?
Does it meant to "stifle & suppress the challenge", or is it supposed to mean "rising to the challenge"?

From my knowledge of Bahasa Melayu (Bahasa Malaysia, Nusantara, Pilihanraya or whatever you call it), it is supposed to be the latter.
Judging from the way our "Asian Values" and "Social Contract" (whatever they mean) are put to practice, it appears that the former is preferred by the ruling elite in most Asian and third world nations.

In fact, it is this very same political spin that every repressive regime in the world uses, to justify their actions, albeit, for peace, security and prosperity of the nation.

These values become manifest in various forms - it may be Islamic/ Syariah law, Confucianism, Communism, Socialism, ISA, Military rule etc, etc.
Whatever the "philosophy" that is apparently held dear by these authoritarian regimes, they all subscibe to the idea of "pantang dicabar" which means "do not question the order of the day"!
Most, if not all, practice a democracy that is "guided" by those "in the know" for the good of the ignorant masses/ proletariat.
They have got it all figured out, and it should never change - period!
The people are generally held in an ideological stranglehold, and to deviate is to be anti-social, unpatriotic and a danger to society, if not "treasonous".

However all is fine and dandy, should there be fraud, corruption, wholesale money laundering, immorality and cultural decadence on the part of the political elite.
Hey - it was their plan after all, and you are supposed to thank God (and them) that you have crumbs to chew on ........

This is what Asian Values stand for today.

The much lauded and dearly held "Asian Values", is nothing but an excuse for the political elite of these "philosophically primitive" despots to tighten their grip on power, and to rule over the masses.
It is almost the same reasonings used by many an authoritarian parent, to impose their will upon children.

Such is the disdain that the political elite with "Asian values" hold, for freedom of opinion, speech, information and public opinion.
The public do not deserve to hear or see the truth - they should be told at all times that all is well, and that the "wise ones" never make mistakes.
The stifling of the media, show of power and a diet of lies, in their opinion is the only thing that can pacify a restive people.
It is best that they are kept ignorant, pampered and lazy, so as to perpetuate their mental slavery, for the benefit of the ruling class.

The public who pay their taxes are not worthy enough to ask questions - to question authority is a "Pantang" in Asian Values.

To indulge in an intellectual discourse is "Pantang".
To demand accountability is "Pantang".
To demand free and fair elections is "Pantang".
To engage in an open discussion and debate with the people having opposing ideas, is a "pantang".
Free debate/ discussion of philosophical/ socio-political ideas is but the greatest "pantang" of them all. To do so would incur the wrath of the "thought police" of the wise ones, who are ordained by God to rule.

"Asian Values", thrive on "Pantangs" imposed upon the citizens in the guise of democracy.
"Pantang" is the name of the game!

It is therefore no surprise that most Asian, African, South American and Eastern European regimes who espouse these "Asian Values" form the bulk of the third-world and poor of the world.

How I wish "Pantang DiCabar" meant "Rising To the Challenge" rather than the "Suppression and Repression of Challenges".
The world could probably be a much better place without these apparently great "Asian Values" ......

Sunday 11 November 2007

TRIBUTE TO BERSIH AND MARCHERS



I LOVE ALL YOU GUYS WHO STOOD UP FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS.


TO ALL BRAVEHEARTS OF MALAYSIA - MY SALUTES!


Thank You BERSIH, DSAI, Tuan Hj Hadi, PSM, SNAP!

Take a look at this video, made for the occassion.

Friday 9 November 2007

Rave reviews - Shocking & Spanking the Monkey


Feel free to enjoy the song "Shock the Monkey" from the album "When Pigs Fly" (different versions), while you read. Thank You.

  • Warning: The following article has been classified by the Koreksia National Censor Board - 18.PG.SX

The recent winding-up speech at the United Communist Notional(sic!) Organ orgy, has drawn rave reviews in the "grate" media - newspapers, television, radio, magazines, tabloids, paparazzi, and what not were all hysterical in their praises- except for one irritating group - the "loggers".

These "loggers" seem to be able to chop down every imaginable "parasitic, twisted idea" that the "Grate Lidder" plants.

Since they aren't too supportive of UCNO fetishes, we shall refrain from using their ammunitions against the "great, beloved, humble and pious leader" of the grate party. We'll deal with them one way or other ....... ehem!


(Yeah man! It was a great lively party - with lots of back-slapping, spanking , stabbing, kinky kissing fetishes and hot chicks too!)

It has to be highlighted that many delegates displayed fetishes of BDSM, ie self-flagellation, Long hard and sharp objects, and as the poetic Deputy Grate Lidder put it, the "honorable" tips of the tongue, "Linggam"(aka “anunya”), Dagger and Bananas. (Speaking of bananas, the monkeys in the background were always fed peanuts only, as seen on the TV screens).

It was indeed a very satisfying event for all monkeys, especially for the Grate Lidder who appeared to be on ALD (aka amphetamine-like drugs, "speed", ecstacy) when his hoarse faltering voice was raised intermittently, to magnify his "firmness" on issues of the day, namely about addictions to cost-efficient labour, subsidies, subtle taxation of the middle class, “ the understandable suppression of 'our friends', stability and parliamentary dumbocracy”.


For those who are ignorant, Please take note that Delegates will be respectfully addressed as Gros. (short for the esteemed title "Granpa of Shiners" that is given for their "servicing" the tools of the "Grate Lidder"). If the title were translated to Bahasa Melayu .... no Malaysia ..... mmmm Melayu ...... - aaah, to hell with it - you know what I mean, right?

The following are the anticipated responses from the footstools of "The Grate Lidder" of Koreksia.

I regret to say that I was not permitted at the venue, as I did not posses such

impeccable reputations, fetishes, heritage and "beliefs". These interviews were downloaded from the UCNO website.

So, here it goes .......

Gros KataNothing:
"It was an extremely progressive winding-up speech by the Grate Lidder -

I could feel it in the depths my loins.

The fragrance of his flatulence was intoxicating, to say the least.

I've come here a couple of times before, but this time was the ultimate feeling. It was

Hot.
It aroused such passions among the participants, that they all stood up in standing ovulation ..... err, sorry - I meant standing ovation.
Anyway, I'm quite certain that it is obvious to all that the great leader has spent sleepless nights to articulate his passions and love for duty.
All in all, the people should be very proud that we have a man with such dedication to the satisfying climax of the party, and the country as a hole (sic)."

Gros Toupee Value:
" .... I need another stiff one - thank you. (a drink later ....)

As I was saying - it was the very spirit of mutual understanding and dependence that we have succeeded in enriching everybody. We should never question the contract - by the way, you must be aware that we never signed the contract, and so whatever said and done, it is always legal and correct.
Nobody makes mistakes around here .... The Grate Lidder has warned those who questioned the unsigned "contract", and also those who waved their weapons provocatively, as it could frighten the ladies.
He reassured them that the weapon was meant to protect them and not to rape them, as did the pedophiles of late. The Pedophiles and Elopers of UCNO never do such things -

I trust them with my @$$.

As for me, I'm mighty proud that they have offered to protect my black @$$ with their tools of trade, while I have the other smalltime @$$es under mine.
So we can rest @$$ured that the great leader has our @$$es covered - the burial has been delayed, though ..... I'll check if the project has been canceled."


Gros Sukun:
"What you see is an extreme expression of commitment to the people who hunger for a great nation.

It was this amazing unsigned contract that has made all of us rich - when I say us, I mean the country as a Hole.
The Grate Lidder has assured us that all sectors of society will be penetrated, with the available protection of the instruments on display here - the dedication was illustrated and sealed with a kiss. Did you see the spit spraying and mouths frothing? Those are hallmarks of passion, commitment and dedication!
What more could a man .... or woman ask for, huh?
I'm so elated, with such a climax to the hole event."


Gros Prin KaTingan:
The Grate Lidder has renewed his pledge towards

development in the land above the storm.
We don't entertain nonsensical issues about aliens landing on our shores - these were all delusions and lies spread by the "loggers" community.
We have sent a man to space to reassure the people that aliens don't exist. We've even

acquired some submarines to make sure they don't exist in our seas - never mind the fact that some aliens were bombed to smithereens in the process.

In the spirit of space travel, our Deputy Grate Lidder has even coined the phrase, "spaced-out race" - but it sounds better in Bahasa Melayu .... I mean Malaysia ... heh .... heh. The deputy has made it his motto in life to make sure we have a "spaced-out race".
This in memory of our achievements and sacrifices towards taking the people towards greater heights of comfort, using the organs and instruments displayed, with plenty of tender loving care and kisses.
We should never question the use of the Tongkat as the symbol of support for the "spaced-out race". Just don't underestimate the Tongkat - we'll make sure we shove it where the sun don't shine, just like what was done when I did .... ha, hah!


One other notable comment was from Gros SIL-ly - he said that all patriots aka rempits on "kapcais" should continue to get subsidized petrol even after the price has gone up, subsidies removed and Petrobras company has gone bust. According to Gros SIL-ly, "... it is only when we have these patriot on kapcais, can we achieve "spaced-out race" targets! Who else would monkey around our streets to entertain the tourists and showcase our achievements?".

In conclusion I would like to add that many more deserving accolades were dished out to the Grate Lidder, by luminaries such as Gros Badut-din, Gros Mm, Gros KUS (that's the Pariah Party Pooper who was told to get out, but having a fetish for

humiliation, sat through it all), and Gros Kissamudin (who could put the rock band KISS to shame).

Thank Goodness for ALDs, all participants took an active part in the event by laughing at SIL-ly Goblok Banana jokes.


Lastly, whatever their fetishes may be, the sad part of it all is the fact that, good or bad, racist or not, they (UCNO) are the only ones who seem to be having an agenda and methodology, in an environment that has most others “grate leaders” of other parties dancing to the tune of sectarian monkey politics.

I hear someone singing & gloating - "We are the Champions ......"


Quite a Catch-22 situation for the critics .......




Disclaimer: The above is a political parody and purely a figment of a vulgar imagination, equivalent to the fetish of kissing of sharp metal objects in public. All ideas have not been fully thought through. Any likeness to anyone dead or alive is purely coincidental. The writer is willing to withdraw any statement that might be deemed insulting, with apologies.

Tuesday 6 November 2007

Thots of Malaysia, UMNO and AGMs ....


Many, if not most youngsters and juniour Umno members are actually oblivious and ignorant to the truth behind Umno, the "Malay Leftists", and the "struggle for Independence" - most have swallowed the myths propagated by certain quarters with vested interests, lock, stock and barrel.

What they know are only the "doctored" versions in history books today, that don't really give room for question.

There appears to be no room for the ideas and ideals of Dato' Onn Jaafar, Samad Ismail, Ahmad Boestamam, Burhanuddin Helmi, Tun Dr. Ismail, or other early nationalists and Indian/ Indonesian influences towards their struggles. It is a known fact that many early nationalists took their cue from India (Gandhi, Nehru, Bose) and their Indonesian counterparts (Soekarno, Hatta). For history of early Malay Nationalists, Click here.

Why is it that we don't hear of these chapters in History? Why is it that we are faced with the primitive old world philosophies of "idol worship" and personality cults of those deemed as our leaders?

Who stole the past? Who stole our History? Who stole Malayan History? Who stole Malaysian History? Don't they know that one who cannot acknowledge and learn from history, are doomed in their future?

Do we even care?

Most youngsters today are much obsessed with "feel good infotainment" dished out by the state.

Any "dissenting" viewpoints or versions of history is frowned upon, and invites retribution in terms of educational or economic benefits.

What we have today is a generation of youth, cowed into submission- into indoctrination and apathy- for want of "easy comforts" in the seductive appeal of the NEP. The feel good mentality is quite unmistakeable, especially from the apathy and intellectual bankruptcy manifested in the students at our "Universities", who are unable to think beyond the indoctrination that they are exposed to.

The effect of this on the much trumpeted "educational excellence" in our institutions of higher learning and its products is quite telling. Taking into consideration our "educational excellence", some of the politicians who are most likely graduates of these very institutions, are to be forgiven for their infantile "words of wisdom", which is laughable at best. The same could be said of many a spin doctor and apologist for the myopic policies that are testaments to the "Malaysia Boleh", "Wawasan 2020", "Ketuanan Melayu" (and now - "2057") spirit!

These policies that keep the Malay minds in "philosophical straightjackets" has resulted in an UMNO that is unable to accept and respond constructively to criticism, to the detriment of the nation. Year after year, we are fed with choreographed events, which are meant to propagate primitive ideas as part of their propaganda, in what is called the AGMs. Gone are the days when there were democratic ideals by which they lived up to. Gone are the intellectuals. Gone are the healthy debates and criticisms.

All views that do not subscribe to "conventional wisdom" of certain quarters, are suppressed and repressed, so as to further their own selfish agendas. Platitudes upon platitudes ad nauseaum, ad infinatum, are heaped upon sleepy and yawning "great Leaders" - reminding one of totalitarian states of the third world. Political patronage has become the "in thing" - "bodek" is the name of the game .....

Yes indeed- UMNO needs to rethink its strategy for a dynamic, better and more progressive Malaysia (and Malays) in the 21st century, instead of playing the narrow, isolationist, "music of Malay hegemony" of a bygone era.

With the ballooning of the Malay population and UMNO membership,there is bound to be dissent within and without the community - the real challenge to UMNO is actually democracy within its folds, and not the threat from "non-bumis". The political threat from the "Chinese" community would be rendered obsolete within the next 5-10 yrs. The Indians are already insignificant as a political force.

They are quite aware that the non-Malay community can only dream of grabbing political power from the Malays, given the reality of demographics- and scaring them away with ethnocentric rhetoric, would only impoverish the Malays themselves.

So why the usual "racial undertones" at UMNO AGMs? A little introspection on the part of the "leaders" would go a long way, towards making Malaysia the economic powerhouse that it could and should have been, without the corruption, plunder and rape of its resources by the "goodfellas" of Malaysia.

Having said that, the sin of envy that is frequently drummed up against the rich "others" (while disregarding the ill-gotten gains of their own kind) for political mileage at AGMs every year, is actually killing them as a whole, by masking the other deadly sins that it permits. It has reinforced a seige mentality among its advocates, who are incapable of thinking out of the box (despite being awarded as educators).

It is time that the leadership learns to deal with the real problem at hand - the lack of, or repression/ suppression of the Malay intelligentsia, and the rise of the "Islamist right/ extremism". It is time that the leadership realizes that it is this very repression, that becomes the fertile breeding ground for the forces of extremism - both racist and religious - as desperate reactions to realities of the day.

On the occasion of the UMNO AGM, I wish all the best to UMNO members as a whole, and hope there will be some positive outcome this year, as opposed to the normal drivel for the past 25yrs.
06/11 13:43:45