-------------------------------------------
Let the people think they govern
and they will be governed.
-- William Penn
_____________________________
The rise of UMNO was none other than an elaborate scheme involving some Malay aristocrats and the British.
Laws were formulated after the great 1947 Hartal (still enforced today) to suppress dissent and handicap other parties (and render them enemies of state). Those who fell in line and "toed the line" were rewarded, while the rest were "punished".
Among those who were "punished" was non other than the Father of UMNO himself, who dreamed of a nation based on trust and cooperation.
Razak wouldn't let it be, though - He knew how the party and state worked (stuff he learnt well from the Brits and Japanese).
He was a visionary, no doubt (although being one that differed greatly, from that of Onn Jaafar and Tunku). Tunku was simply Razak's poster-boy he knew nothing about the workings of the state - it was Razak who wielded power.
Razak did his homework well in planning for his rise to power and the continuation of his legacy (some say that he rigged all elections in the party to favor him!!).
And Mahathir was his "anointed".
We've had 'watershed' moments almost every decade since Merdeka was proclaimed.
1957 - Merdeka
1969 - May 13, Mahathir sacked (followed by meteoric rise through the ranks upon his return in '72 under Razak - possibly planned?)
1978 - Mahathir becomes DPM (then
1988 - Mahathir-UMNO-Judicial Crisis/ UMNO Baru
1998 - Asian Financial Crisis/ Anwar Saga
2008 - BN electoral losses/ return of Anwar and what else?
What has happened recently is nothing short of a watershed in our Nation's history. The mighty BN/ UMNO Baru machinery was no match for the people's voice.
So, what happens next?
We are now faced with stark choices as a result.
It is primarily the question of the (UMNO pretender's) political/ cultural hegemony - Are we willing to do away with it?
There are still many among us who still want to believe that the divisive race based politics is the only way forward - even if it is only for selfish interests. More so among a people who pine for sectarian glory that existed only in UMNO (Baru) myths.
UMNO Baru philosophy for nationhood appears to me, as simplistic and silly as this - "Everything, has everything to do with Power, Money, Race & Religion" .... period.
Let us not fool ourselves into believing the propaganda "BS" that UMNO Baru is Onn Jaafar's UMNO of old that "fought for Merdeka".
The two entities are as different as night & day - It is simply a tall tale that the some aristocrats would want 'peasants' to believe - and there definitely are a whole lot of peasants out there who swallow it all up lock, stock & barrel.
To these peasants, ignorance is bliss, and denial is sweet.
Over 25 years, peasants have been programmed to think that there can be no alternative to what we had for 50 yrs, and all that mattered was that the "stability & peace & status quo" at all costs.
To them, there's supposed to be nothing worth more than going about with their daily routine in "peace, harmony and stability" .... and so they unwittingly become their own oppressors.
In the last Elections, that appeared to change somewhat although not significant enough- some have started thinking again, even though with misgivings and a heart bleeding for the UMNO of old.
The allies of this UMNO Baru entity are actually (willingly) blind to the fact that it is parasitic in nature. It survives on rhetoric that appeals to the "basic instincts" & "siege mentality" amongst the members and electorate, devoid of ideas on Nationhood. They are all ultimately reduced to sectarian parties begging for handouts, to enrich themselves and facilitate UMNO Baru's hegemony.
This might, incidently explain its current leadership, membership, representation, conflicts, dilemma/ crises.
How does it work?
Besides the "peasants who only end their days as "runners", first & foremost it courts a potential threat to the planned leadership with "promises".
It then "kills off" the intellectuals within its ranks who may rock the boat - unless they are willing to be docile, obedient and mindless zombies to ascertain the planned leadership. (They will of course be used to propagate its feudal system)
Then comes the so-called "allies" .....
UMNO Baru's survival depends on its ability to suck the political life/will out of its "allies", based on the hallowed "social contract". The allies are tempted into the BN with promises of material gain and are thus "drugged, neutered and corrupted" into impotence, while remaining there grinning for posterity.
Contrary to their convictions - The impotence of UMNO Baru's allies, their tendency for racist delusions and the absence of Malay intellectuals are its Achilles Heel.
The very fact that a septuagenarian is the alternative candidate attests to this fact - there simply isn't any other viable candidate that's trustworthy enough!
These would be the main contributing factors to the impending "implosion" of UMNO Baru, which effectively translates into the collapse of the Alliance/ BN juggernaut - and of course the rise of BR.
Further reading:
Where is the Spirit of Merdeka?
A Social Contract of "Asian Values".
"Asian Values" 101
The "Social Contract" - A Malaysian "Cold War"?
Progress of a Nation - the flip-side.
Class Politics - the Other Option?
A Malaysian Disease of Fear and Apathy
***The above is a personal perspective on the Malaysian political scene and as such may be debatable, depending on the shades through which one looks.
Saturday, 29 March 2008
Mahathirisms.
Here are a few Mahathirisms to consider from BBC & Wikiquote:-
"There were times when I was elated with what I thought was my success. But mostly I feel disappointed, because I achieved too little result from my principal task, the task of making my race a race that is respected, a race that is honorable, a race that is highly regarded." - June 21, 2002,
"It is good governance by good people that we need. And feudal kings, even dictators, have provided and can provide good governance." - April 26, 2002, speech.
On Jews ......
The Jews for example are not merely hook-nosed, but understand money instinctively.
- 1970, the Malay Dilemma
"But today the Jews rule the world by proxy. They get others to fight and die for them. They invented socialism, communism, human rights and democracy so that persecuting them would appear to be wrong so they may enjoy equal rights with others. With these they have now gained control of the most powerful countries. And they, this tiny community, have become a world power"
- OIC Conference, Oct 16,2003
"The Jews robbed the Palestinians of everything, but in Malaysia they could not do so, hence they do this, depress the ringgit."
"We may suspect that they, the Jews, have an agenda, but we do not want to accuse. And incidentally, we are Muslims, and the Jews are not happy to see the Muslims progress." - Oct. 10, 1997, speech during Asian financial crisis.
On Europeans .....
"If Australia wants to be a friend to Asia, it should stop behaving as if it is there to teach us how to run our country. It is a small nation in terms of numbers and it should behave like a small nation and not be a teacher."
"The American people are, by and large, very ignorant and know nothing about the rest of the world.... Yet they are the people who will decide who will be the most powerful man in the world".
"I've never seen anybody so rude" - on Al Gore's speech at the KL APEC summit.
"There were times when I was elated with what I thought was my success. But mostly I feel disappointed, because I achieved too little result from my principal task, the task of making my race a race that is respected, a race that is honorable, a race that is highly regarded." - June 21, 2002,
"It is good governance by good people that we need. And feudal kings, even dictators, have provided and can provide good governance." - April 26, 2002, speech.
On Bumiputras........
"The Malays are spiritually inclined, tolerant and easy-going. The non-Malays, and especially the Chinese, are materialistic, aggressive and have an appetite for work. For equality to come about, it is necessary that these strikingly contrasting races adjust to each other." - 1970 book, "The Malay Dilemma."
"They know it, they see it right before their eyes but they learn nothing. Next time they will do it again."
".....We tell them if you use crutches, you will not be able to stand up. Throw away the crutches, stand up straight because you still have the capacity."
"........ I know very well the meaning of crutches but somehow or rather they want the easy way out. If I get an AP and I sell it and make some money, it’s all right, they say."
"..... But every one of them sold their contracts. Sold and sold and sold until finally the last man could not sell and had to do the work. He then found he would make terrible losses and so he tried to cut corners, used bad materials and the labs collapsed."
On Muslims....
Disunited, confused about Islam, fighting each other for power and lacking in essential knowledge and skills... Muslims today have reached the lowest point of their development. - January 2003
"We [Muslims] are actually very strong, 1.3 billion people cannot be simply wiped out." - OIC Conference, Oct 16,2003On Jews ......
The Jews for example are not merely hook-nosed, but understand money instinctively.
- 1970, the Malay Dilemma
"But today the Jews rule the world by proxy. They get others to fight and die for them. They invented socialism, communism, human rights and democracy so that persecuting them would appear to be wrong so they may enjoy equal rights with others. With these they have now gained control of the most powerful countries. And they, this tiny community, have become a world power"
- OIC Conference, Oct 16,2003
"The Jews robbed the Palestinians of everything, but in Malaysia they could not do so, hence they do this, depress the ringgit."
"We may suspect that they, the Jews, have an agenda, but we do not want to accuse. And incidentally, we are Muslims, and the Jews are not happy to see the Muslims progress." - Oct. 10, 1997, speech during Asian financial crisis.
On Europeans .....
They are very clever, brave and have an insatiable curiosity... unfortunately they are also very greedy and like to take forcibly the territories and rights of other people.
The culture and the values which they will force us to accept will be hedonism, unlimited quest for pleasure, the satisfaction of base desires, particularly sexual desires. Our way of life must be the same as their way of life. Asian values do not exist to them. -June 2003
"The Sept. 11 attack on America, which supported Israel, has made an excuse for the Anglo-Saxon Europeans to return to their old violent ways. Their strategy to fight terrorism is through attacking Muslim countries and Muslims, whether they are guilty or not." - June 19, 2003, speech.On Australia..........
This country stands out like a sore thumb trying to impose its European values in Asia as if it is the good old days when people can shoot aborigines without caring about human rights. - December 2002
"... white trash of Asia"."If Australia wants to be a friend to Asia, it should stop behaving as if it is there to teach us how to run our country. It is a small nation in terms of numbers and it should behave like a small nation and not be a teacher."
On America .....
"The American people are, by and large, very ignorant and know nothing about the rest of the world.... Yet they are the people who will decide who will be the most powerful man in the world".
"I've never seen anybody so rude" - on Al Gore's speech at the KL APEC summit.
Thursday, 27 March 2008
The Party-Hopping Madness.
Pardon me - it isn't the fun kind of party gate-crashing that we speak of here, but the Political Party Hopping, that's done in search of "greener pastures".
A newspiece of late, says that some young political upstart in PKR appears to condone the "Party Hopping" activities.
It is possibly a mental disease that's akin to "opportunistic infection" in the world of politics. To say that it is an acceptable "occupational hazard" would be immoral. No Disease such as this is "Acceptable".
All efforts towards containment & eradicating this extremely dangerous communicable disease should be made (through "Pendidikan Moral untuk Politikus" classes, if not by legislation- if necessary).
It it plainly a despicable act - it only means that the "hopper" is corrupt morally and/or financially.
This behaviour (should the Hopper be an MP), has to be condemned by all parties.
Party Hoppers should be condemned if he refuses to give up the seat he contested for, under another Party platform.
It is only right that he/she seeks a new mandate from the people he represents in a by election. The same should also be done, should a party "sack" the MP's membership.
Just becos UMNO Baru did encourage such conduct, doesn't mean it is acceptable.
Just becos UMNO Baru/BN would stand to gain by this condemnation, doesn't mean it should be condoned.
This is what was said on The People's Parliament recently:-
‘Party-hopping is part and parcel of the democratic process’ - so says PKR Youth deputy chief Khairul Annuar Ahmad Zainuddin, according to a report in Malaysiakini yesterday.
Yeah right!!
Let me tell you this Khairul - If at all you did say this, SHAME ON YOU.
You had better clarify your position.
It may be part and parcel of Democracy, but it doesn't make the act morally acceptable.
Democracy does not spell out the fine print of technicalities, like a legal contract.
Just like the Law, It is an IDEA that can be twisted to your convenience, should you not understand its "spirit".
For you to say that a despicable act is part and parcel of Democracy only means that you accept cheating, and do not understand the spirit of Democracy.
Zaid Ibrahim should table the bill to enact anti-defection laws ASAP, to discourage such immoral behaviour among MPs who are entrusted with a people's mandate.
The vote that is cast, although should ideally be defined as that for a candidate, isn't quite the case in third-world nations like Malaysia.
More often than not, the voters don't even know who the candidate is! More so, when the media is so biased and freedom of information is restricted. Mr. Loh Gwe Burne (I hope the spelling is correct) would be a fine example - from the "famous" cameraman of Lingam-gate to MP, in a blink. Nobody knows jack about this cameraman, other than the fact that he's a businessman based in China (or is it Taiwan?).
That is why Party Symbols and "Iconic Leaders" are extremely important in third-world democracies- people identify more readily with images, rather than ideas of individuals.
Khairul - I call upon you to retract your statement, and make it clear that you would reject new turncoats & "CHEATING MPs" into your fold, or you would be no better.
DSAI should also make a stand, and reject the corrupt UMNO-B /BN modus operandi and culture once and for all. (We all know what happened in Sabah '94 during the UMNO Baru venture, and it isn't what we want).
------------------------------------------------------------
On another note - the word is out (rumours lah!), that bets are now being placed on the timing of AAB's resignation "due to ill health". Apparently the dates around the second half of April and early May are getting the highest bets!
Is this the end of KJ? Are we gonna see the rise of the aristocratic Dynasties? Will TDM be back in action via his proxies? Or is it gonna be the new philandering Neo-Con (could be conservative, conmen or convict) Capitalist Malay?
Let's just wait and see .... who knows - DSAI may just get the PMship on a silver platter should UMNO Baru implode!
A newspiece of late, says that some young political upstart in PKR appears to condone the "Party Hopping" activities.
It is possibly a mental disease that's akin to "opportunistic infection" in the world of politics. To say that it is an acceptable "occupational hazard" would be immoral. No Disease such as this is "Acceptable".
All efforts towards containment & eradicating this extremely dangerous communicable disease should be made (through "Pendidikan Moral untuk Politikus" classes, if not by legislation- if necessary).
It it plainly a despicable act - it only means that the "hopper" is corrupt morally and/or financially.
This behaviour (should the Hopper be an MP), has to be condemned by all parties.
Party Hoppers should be condemned if he refuses to give up the seat he contested for, under another Party platform.
It is only right that he/she seeks a new mandate from the people he represents in a by election. The same should also be done, should a party "sack" the MP's membership.
Just becos UMNO Baru did encourage such conduct, doesn't mean it is acceptable.
Just becos UMNO Baru/BN would stand to gain by this condemnation, doesn't mean it should be condoned.
This is what was said on The People's Parliament recently:-
‘Party-hopping is part and parcel of the democratic process’ - so says PKR Youth deputy chief Khairul Annuar Ahmad Zainuddin, according to a report in Malaysiakini yesterday.
Yeah right!!Let me tell you this Khairul - If at all you did say this, SHAME ON YOU.
You had better clarify your position.
It may be part and parcel of Democracy, but it doesn't make the act morally acceptable.
Democracy does not spell out the fine print of technicalities, like a legal contract.
Just like the Law, It is an IDEA that can be twisted to your convenience, should you not understand its "spirit".
For you to say that a despicable act is part and parcel of Democracy only means that you accept cheating, and do not understand the spirit of Democracy.
Zaid Ibrahim should table the bill to enact anti-defection laws ASAP, to discourage such immoral behaviour among MPs who are entrusted with a people's mandate.
The vote that is cast, although should ideally be defined as that for a candidate, isn't quite the case in third-world nations like Malaysia.
More often than not, the voters don't even know who the candidate is! More so, when the media is so biased and freedom of information is restricted. Mr. Loh Gwe Burne (I hope the spelling is correct) would be a fine example - from the "famous" cameraman of Lingam-gate to MP, in a blink. Nobody knows jack about this cameraman, other than the fact that he's a businessman based in China (or is it Taiwan?).
That is why Party Symbols and "Iconic Leaders" are extremely important in third-world democracies- people identify more readily with images, rather than ideas of individuals.
Khairul - I call upon you to retract your statement, and make it clear that you would reject new turncoats & "CHEATING MPs" into your fold, or you would be no better.
DSAI should also make a stand, and reject the corrupt UMNO-B /BN modus operandi and culture once and for all. (We all know what happened in Sabah '94 during the UMNO Baru venture, and it isn't what we want).
------------------------------------------------------------
On another note - the word is out (rumours lah!), that bets are now being placed on the timing of AAB's resignation "due to ill health". Apparently the dates around the second half of April and early May are getting the highest bets!
Is this the end of KJ? Are we gonna see the rise of the aristocratic Dynasties? Will TDM be back in action via his proxies? Or is it gonna be the new philandering Neo-Con (could be conservative, conmen or convict) Capitalist Malay?
Let's just wait and see .... who knows - DSAI may just get the PMship on a silver platter should UMNO Baru implode!
Monday, 24 March 2008
"Reeducating" Malaysians?
"Speaking A New Language"-
This was the article by Bob Teoh/ MySinchew that was published in Malaysia Today lately.
To quote Bob,
"For a start, we have to get use to speaking a new language. Whereas in the past, politics was very simplistic. It’s either the Government or the Opposition. An superficial dichotomy that conceals our lack of understanding of what a constitutional monarchy is all about......."
For far too long, Malaysians have been hoodwinked and made to believe that "democracy, power sharing and stability" is epitomized by the so called social contract and NEP that was peddled by the Alliance/ BN politicians. Ethics, Morality and Justice were thus sacrificed at this much worshiped altar of "prosperity" (albeit, of the elite). We are in effect actually poorer, debt laden, sick (physically/ spiritually) and trapped in the shiny cages of our own making, despite working harder and longer hours for a "better" life.
The people always wanted a change for the better. The people wanted justice. The people had had enough of the disillusionment of divisive politics and economic plunder.
The opportunity for change came in the persona of
Anwar Ibrahim who had with the assistance of other activists forged an understanding among the then fractured Opposition parties, on a platform of good governance, instead of the old "R&R" ideology.
Malaysians in general (until the 12 GE), chose to live in silent resignation, with what was nothing more than a single party state, that lived on the ideology of corruption, ethnocentric chauvinism, religiosity and segregation- under a cloud of fear and apathy.
The disregard for race or religion in the voting patterns of the Rakyat took everybody (more so, the powerful politicians/ warlords) by total surprise. 'They' surely thought, that the sectarian distrust that has been meticulously nurtured for 50 yrs was deeper than that! 'They' miscalculated and misjudged the people - the people actually had more in common than 'they' (even the opposition) thought.
All the people needed were a reassurances and a gentle push from the politicians/ activists, regardless of creed or color, that they would be willing to see reason and work together as a team for the good of the nation as a whole - and not for a selfish sectarian interests.
That together with the expression of discontent - political and economic, on the streets and in cyberspace - had set the ball rolling for the wave to manifest itself in the form the tsunami that we witnessed during the 12GE.
However, the reality of it all appears to be quite hard to swallow in more ways than one.
After the "tsunami", the governments - both at the federal and state level are definitely attempting to speak a different "language" (maybe just a different accent, though), i.e politically and economically.
Gone is the media attention that was given to the racist "hawks" and religious extremists, which served to whip up sentiments of hatred. Gone are the arrogant rhetoric that have served to alienate the rakyat on the basis of their heritage .
'They' are a little more conciliatory in their ways at present, despite playing up the loss of power as, loss of political dominance for a certain ethnic group.
The state governments of Penang, Kedah , Perak, Selangor and (not so much in) Kelantan however, have some difficulty in adjusting to the new political equilibrium. They somehow seem to revert to ideas of "R&R" in staking their claims for "representation", time and again.
The idea of "meritocracy" would definitely take time to be fully accepted - old habits die hard. More so when we have agent provocateurs among politicians and the MSM, who attempt to provoke sectarian sentiments among a still very gullible, chauvinistic, arrogant and narrow-minded public.
Time could heal the wounds of distrust and suspicion that has been cultivated over the last 50 yrs, although there are attempts made certain quarters to inflame it further.
Raja Petra on the other hand, has been rather uncompromising in his push for meritocracy, regardless of gender, race or religion. As noble and admirable as such idealism may be, in reality though they can have some destabilising effects on a people who have been lulled into accepting such a "status quo" for far too long.
It would take some time before the idea can be accepted as one that is "non-threatening" to many Malaysians, who have thus far been indoctrinated to perceive "favouritism" as a right, and not a privilege.
Just as weaning off drugs in substance abusers can be traumatic, so will the sudden withdrawal of "perceived privileges".
Without a doubt - NEP (though noble in its ideals) as it has been implemented, was and is, nothing but "Money Politics" at a higher level. It is an evil that has been perpetrated in the name of Malay nationalism to buy votes, and has done well to corrupt the ruling elite.
It has corrupted the philosophy, values and hearts of a vast majority of Malaysians, despite having been cheated through & through by the main beneficiaries. A million excuses are found by each and every businessman (bumi or not), to "reason" away the corruption that they indulge in. For all practical purposes, corruption has become part of the Malaysian culture.
It would therefore be wise for the newly elected governments and Wakil Rakyats to exercise extreme caution when indulging in "NEP/ 'R&R' rhetoric" - as it is a potent tool for the robber barons/oligarchs, to destabilize the nation for siezing control.
In their enthusiasm to "set things right" (whichever way you look at it), Caution should also be exercised in attempting to "seize control" of government by unethical means (e.g. courting defections/ unwarranted demonstrations) - and that goes for all parties.
It only means that you tolerate (though you may not acknowledge "acceptance" overtly) the unethical practices.
Zaid Ibrahim's call for anti-defection laws is therefore very much warranted, as is his call for a public apology from the Govt with regard to the "Mahathir-Judiciary '88 saga".
In saying that the pain of reopening the case should be spared - Zaid Sir, remember your words, - "Whatever the reason may be, our judges must remember that they owe allegiance primarily to our Constitution, and their responsibility is to interpret the law". Ironic isn't it, Sir - that you should now 'sort-off' contradict yourself, now that you have been made a Minister?
This isn't a time for molly-coddling and denial. An apology would otherwise ring hollow, and would only be an expression of Hypocrisy.
A crime of astronomical proportions was commited. The perpetrators have to be identified (even if gradually or belated) and Justice has to be served (even if just for the record with suspended sentences) - Or else all attempts at restoring the Judiciary would be an exercise in futility, as it reflects "tolerance".
The pain that we go through as a result, would serve as a reminder to future generations and despots of its repercussions, should they be tempted to meddle with the Law - which has to be the highest and most respected Body in the state.
We don't need anymore "fear of pain", denials, excuses and window dressings for our crimes and failures, that would remind us of
Mahathirism .
"Withdrawals" from the absence of "perceived privileges" in a changing world, and healing of 25 year old socio-political wounds would be slow and painful, not just for the "Bumiputra", but for all Malaysians - but it must come to pass, for the sake of the children.
Hence, the leaders that we have elected should be responsible in their horse-trading/ power-play and administration, while the people need to be patient in allowing reason and justice to be the order of the day.
It would be best that emotions pertaining to "R&R" factors and feudal mindsets, be cast aside during this period of healing.
This was the article by Bob Teoh/ MySinchew that was published in Malaysia Today lately.
To quote Bob,
"For a start, we have to get use to speaking a new language. Whereas in the past, politics was very simplistic. It’s either the Government or the Opposition. An superficial dichotomy that conceals our lack of understanding of what a constitutional monarchy is all about......."
For far too long, Malaysians have been hoodwinked and made to believe that "democracy, power sharing and stability" is epitomized by the so called social contract and NEP that was peddled by the Alliance/ BN politicians. Ethics, Morality and Justice were thus sacrificed at this much worshiped altar of "prosperity" (albeit, of the elite). We are in effect actually poorer, debt laden, sick (physically/ spiritually) and trapped in the shiny cages of our own making, despite working harder and longer hours for a "better" life.
The people always wanted a change for the better. The people wanted justice. The people had had enough of the disillusionment of divisive politics and economic plunder.
The opportunity for change came in the persona of
Anwar Ibrahim who had with the assistance of other activists forged an understanding among the then fractured Opposition parties, on a platform of good governance, instead of the old "R&R" ideology.Malaysians in general (until the 12 GE), chose to live in silent resignation, with what was nothing more than a single party state, that lived on the ideology of corruption, ethnocentric chauvinism, religiosity and segregation- under a cloud of fear and apathy.
The disregard for race or religion in the voting patterns of the Rakyat took everybody (more so, the powerful politicians/ warlords) by total surprise. 'They' surely thought, that the sectarian distrust that has been meticulously nurtured for 50 yrs was deeper than that! 'They' miscalculated and misjudged the people - the people actually had more in common than 'they' (even the opposition) thought.
All the people needed were a reassurances and a gentle push from the politicians/ activists, regardless of creed or color, that they would be willing to see reason and work together as a team for the good of the nation as a whole - and not for a selfish sectarian interests.
That together with the expression of discontent - political and economic, on the streets and in cyberspace - had set the ball rolling for the wave to manifest itself in the form the tsunami that we witnessed during the 12GE.
However, the reality of it all appears to be quite hard to swallow in more ways than one.
After the "tsunami", the governments - both at the federal and state level are definitely attempting to speak a different "language" (maybe just a different accent, though), i.e politically and economically.
Gone is the media attention that was given to the racist "hawks" and religious extremists, which served to whip up sentiments of hatred. Gone are the arrogant rhetoric that have served to alienate the rakyat on the basis of their heritage .
'They' are a little more conciliatory in their ways at present, despite playing up the loss of power as, loss of political dominance for a certain ethnic group.
The state governments of Penang, Kedah , Perak, Selangor and (not so much in) Kelantan however, have some difficulty in adjusting to the new political equilibrium. They somehow seem to revert to ideas of "R&R" in staking their claims for "representation", time and again.
The idea of "meritocracy" would definitely take time to be fully accepted - old habits die hard. More so when we have agent provocateurs among politicians and the MSM, who attempt to provoke sectarian sentiments among a still very gullible, chauvinistic, arrogant and narrow-minded public.
Time could heal the wounds of distrust and suspicion that has been cultivated over the last 50 yrs, although there are attempts made certain quarters to inflame it further.
Raja Petra on the other hand, has been rather uncompromising in his push for meritocracy, regardless of gender, race or religion. As noble and admirable as such idealism may be, in reality though they can have some destabilising effects on a people who have been lulled into accepting such a "status quo" for far too long.It would take some time before the idea can be accepted as one that is "non-threatening" to many Malaysians, who have thus far been indoctrinated to perceive "favouritism" as a right, and not a privilege.
Just as weaning off drugs in substance abusers can be traumatic, so will the sudden withdrawal of "perceived privileges".
Without a doubt - NEP (though noble in its ideals) as it has been implemented, was and is, nothing but "Money Politics" at a higher level. It is an evil that has been perpetrated in the name of Malay nationalism to buy votes, and has done well to corrupt the ruling elite.
It has corrupted the philosophy, values and hearts of a vast majority of Malaysians, despite having been cheated through & through by the main beneficiaries. A million excuses are found by each and every businessman (bumi or not), to "reason" away the corruption that they indulge in. For all practical purposes, corruption has become part of the Malaysian culture.
It would therefore be wise for the newly elected governments and Wakil Rakyats to exercise extreme caution when indulging in "NEP/ 'R&R' rhetoric" - as it is a potent tool for the robber barons/oligarchs, to destabilize the nation for siezing control.
In their enthusiasm to "set things right" (whichever way you look at it), Caution should also be exercised in attempting to "seize control" of government by unethical means (e.g. courting defections/ unwarranted demonstrations) - and that goes for all parties.
It only means that you tolerate (though you may not acknowledge "acceptance" overtly) the unethical practices.
Zaid Ibrahim's call for anti-defection laws is therefore very much warranted, as is his call for a public apology from the Govt with regard to the "Mahathir-Judiciary '88 saga".In saying that the pain of reopening the case should be spared - Zaid Sir, remember your words, - "Whatever the reason may be, our judges must remember that they owe allegiance primarily to our Constitution, and their responsibility is to interpret the law". Ironic isn't it, Sir - that you should now 'sort-off' contradict yourself, now that you have been made a Minister?
This isn't a time for molly-coddling and denial. An apology would otherwise ring hollow, and would only be an expression of Hypocrisy.
A crime of astronomical proportions was commited. The perpetrators have to be identified (even if gradually or belated) and Justice has to be served (even if just for the record with suspended sentences) - Or else all attempts at restoring the Judiciary would be an exercise in futility, as it reflects "tolerance".
The pain that we go through as a result, would serve as a reminder to future generations and despots of its repercussions, should they be tempted to meddle with the Law - which has to be the highest and most respected Body in the state.We don't need anymore "fear of pain", denials, excuses and window dressings for our crimes and failures, that would remind us of
Mahathirism ."Withdrawals" from the absence of "perceived privileges" in a changing world, and healing of 25 year old socio-political wounds would be slow and painful, not just for the "Bumiputra", but for all Malaysians - but it must come to pass, for the sake of the children.
Hence, the leaders that we have elected should be responsible in their horse-trading/ power-play and administration, while the people need to be patient in allowing reason and justice to be the order of the day.
It would be best that emotions pertaining to "R&R" factors and feudal mindsets, be cast aside during this period of healing.
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
UMNO/ UMNO Baru's Definition of "Progress".
“Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel.”
-Samuel Johnson
Sepuluh Tahun Sebelum Merdeka from fahmi reza on Vimeo.
Zaid Ibrahim was recently interviewed by MalaysiaKini, on his views with regard to the state of affairs of the national politics, specifically that of UMNO Baru.
He has been a strong critic of the UMNO Baru culture/system and methods of doing things. He was denied a seat to contest in the recent elections, in which BN/ UMNO Baru and their allies literally "bit the dust", and are now made to "eat humble pie".
He apparently believes that he should reform UMNO Baru from within, as a member ......
Just as many other UMNO Baru members, he speaks of the democratic "good ol'days" of Tunku, forgetting (or deliberately ignoring the fact in denial?) that,
UMNO Baru isn't UMNO.
He also appears to acknowledge though that TDM had killed UMNO ....
The irony of it all, is the fact that TDM is today being recognized by the deluded members of "UMNO" as the hero, and AAB the "villain"!
Many still believe in their heart of hearts, that they belong to the very organisation that has long since ceased to exist .... and somehow still think that Datuk ONN Jaafar is the "father" of UMNO Baru, when it is actually TDM.
As to why they prefer to think that it is one & the same, I don't understand.
Could it be that it was the Political power & the perpetuated pretense that gave it absolute control over the gullible members and the nation at large?
Are the members willing or unwitting accomplices to the conspiracy of deception - The way "they" had hijacked the history of Malaya and the struggle for "Merdeka"?
For a peek at the UMNO Baru "feudal" and undemocratic culture, please click here.
Read also "The rebel in Onn Jaafar", where the writer says Datuk Onn believed that "Cooperation with the non-Malay constituents was a political necessity if he hoped to successfully champion the interests of the Malay community."
In the interview mentioned below, Zaid appears to reinforce the perception that the ideals that UMNO had stood for are dead, and has long been buried.
And that it was the dictatorial powers of the executive (aka "Asian Values?) that kept it (UMNO Baru) going in a direction that spelled disaster for the Malays and the Nation (which includes everybody else) as a whole.
Here's what Datuk Zaid had to say in an interview with MalaysiaKini -
Q.
How will the general election results affect Umno elections, which is due this year?
A.
I'm sure there will be some impact but will there be one (contest for top posts)?
The last time Umno had an election for the top two posts was when
Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah challenged and lost to Dr Mahathir Mohamed
in 1987. That was what we call an election.
But then Dr Mahathir, to make sure he stayed in power, used the power he had got to destroy the judiciary. And he used all his powers to kill Umno. That was the last time…
So for 20 years, Umno has not had a proper choice of leaders.
They are all anointed and decided. It's almost like a dynasty.
Since then, members have not had the opportunity to speak up. And the leaders did not get the feedback.
emperor has no clothes but no one will say it.
If there is one lesson to learn from this election is to put back democracy into Umno. Let Umno be the party of the old days.
It was not perfect but Tunku (Abdul Rahman) was more open about things and Tun Abdul Razak's days saw elections among small groups of people.
But would Umno change as a result of this elections? I don't know.
I hope that they take the positive side of things and regroup and articulate what are the issues affecting us all. Slogans don't count anymore. For example, if people say they don't want corruption, they don't want corruption. Putting on a button which says "Tak Nak Rasuah" is not going to help. You can't say everything is to defend Umno's interest. We have to identify those interests and how we are going to defend them. How do you make sure that the bumiputeras are going to be taken care of and not be abused.
But a party decided by dynasty rule where an emperor decides everything is not going to work.
As much as it is a major setback, it can be reversed. They still have to wait to see how DAP performs in a coalition. At the rate they are going, they are not doing very well. It's still early days.
The strength of BN is on Umno.
*For more on the interview, please click here ; (and here for the YouTube presentation).
**As of today, Zaid has been appointed as a Minister (for law in the PM's Dept) in the new cabinet line up despite the fact that UMNO Baru had suspended him (as the fall guy?) for 18mths on allegations of corruption, for which he has refused to admit or apologize.
Zaid Ibrahim, is a Kuala Lumpur lawyer.
His fights a tough battle for democracy in UMNO Baru.
As an outspoken member of Malaysia's long-ruling, conservative United Malays National Organisation (Baru), he has run into trouble as he pushed for more human rights, judicial reform and greater democracy.
Zaid, 57--a former member of parliament and also the majority owner of Malaysia's largest law firm, the 140-lawyer Zaid Ibrahim & Co. in Kuala Lumpur--set up the Kelantan Foundation for the Disabled in 1998.Zaid Ibrahim has recently been listed as one of Asia's foremost philanthropists.
Monday, 17 March 2008
Much Ado Over Songkoks ...
Raja Petra had written two articles on the issue of the "Songkok" being rejected by a certain Chinese politician in Perak, although it was simply a dress-code/ protocol.
The articles are in the No Holds Barred column of Malaysia Today.
I was actually quite surprised that such a petty issue had generated so much discussion, and passionate defence for ignorance, prejudice, and even hatred.
It may appear to be a "small thing", but it had highlighted the level of racism and misunderstanding created as a reslt of 50 yrs of indoctrination, under the "Social Contract" that is much lauded by the members of the BN.
The people have been victims of a system that bred ill-will, suspicion and isolationism among the people of the nation, via the propaganda machinery of the state.
I thought that I might've put in my 2 sens worth of logic in the discussion, but I seemed to have been quickly voted down, ending up "lowly rated"
(not that I care about being "lowly rated", anyways - in fact, I consider it a 'highlight', and I normally check the lowly rated ones first - and they are quite often, quite good!).
Yes .... it appears logic has no place in this issue - only emotion!
I fail to understand why some people are so passionate about their prejudice, which is actually the result of the "social programming/ repression" that they were subject to. Maybe I'm too detached from the emotions that the "social contract" evokes in many.
These very same emotional people would in fact be the very first to scream about the racism and prejudice that has borne the desired results in them!!.
Needless to say, many of the "intellectual" and "academic" apologetics' arguments were quite simplistic for me to swallow, in the sense that they only serve to reinforce prejudices that have been so deeply rooted by the political masters.
Shouldn't these "intellectual" guys be enlightening the ignorant - but here they are playing the role of the apologist, by saying that prejudicial sentiments have to be taken into consideration in Palace protocol!
These guys just don't seem to understand (or refuse to acknowledge) the simple words - "Dress-code" and "Protocol"!
The following are some of my comments on both the articles:-
*****
RPK,
This argument against the songkok reminds me of the arguments of some mullahs in Pakistan, who said that the necktie is a symbol of Christianity.
You cannot teach them how to be rational or graceful,
cos they insist on being pig-headed with their rhetoric
- no matter how "educated" they are ....
They are best ignored & left alone in their tempurungs/ psychological ghettoes
- but sock it to their heads if they try acting funny otherwise ....
***
This was a response to another commenter ....
Rozlan,
What you say is very true.
However, "they" wouldn't accept what you say, and will come out with a million "pig-headed" arguments like "songkok=pork" ......
The irony of it is, these guys are actually victims of the colonial "social contract",
that has been propagated by "some parties", that they themselves hate.
However, they do not see it that way - over the decades of indoctrination to the "divide & rule" policies, they have been made to believe that they are only being "patriotic" to their ancestry, and are thus justified.
They'll never believe for a minute, that they are actually victims of hate-mongers' propaganda ..... and they'll unwittingly play the same game and rhetoric as their hated adversaries.
Poor little minds ....
***
While RPK is right in saying that all Malaysian are racists, it should be remembered that most people (not all) really are to variable extents - and that is the Gospel truth.
I'm truly impressed with the "passion" that many exhibit in demonizing cultures/protocols that they have little understanding about,
but harbour plenty of prejudice about things as a result of flawed education/ perceptions and thinking.
Nor do many care to really know or understanding their fellow citizens.
It is sad they choose to defend their prejudices and ignorance, so passionately.
Many don't seem to realize that this "syndrome" is actually the result of the colonial methods, which were further reinforced into the minds of the electorate (ala DEB, Ketuanan Melayu, "Islamization", HP6 education) - and are thus victims of circumstances.
Ultimately it is the ruling elite that chose to propagate ideas of "cultural exclusivism" via the education system and weird/ archaic laws, who are to blame.
Not the Chinese/ Indian/ Malay or whatever man on the street .....
The people have been fed with images associated with inanimate objects, that speak of hatred for other cultures (?xenophobia) for decades on end.
In fact these ideas are propagated in schools from a very tender age.
In Malaysia however, "R&R"(race/religion) was staple diet for half a century, and was institutionalized with pride by all parties. The common man swallowed the bull - lock, stock and barrel, to become chauvinists themselves.
Racism, prejudice and discrimination has been made out to be "Truly Malaysian" by the Alliance/ BN, in every aspect/ facet of Malaysian life.
It has been marketed to the public with the condescending "Tolerance" which implies that it isn't really "Accepted" - accordingly, the people tolerate and do not accept another culture.
"Tolerance" is looked upon as something so good, while the need for "acceptance" is disregarded.
To blame the Chinese or Indian man on the street entirely would be very wrong, as the Malay too had a big role to play in evoking such sentiments - we have the "social contract" of MCA, MIC & UMNO (UMNO Baru) wise guys to thank for all these misconceptions, prejudices, discrimination and hatred.
Let us hope the leaders that we elect would have the grey matter to set right these wrongs, instead of justifying these simple-minded ideas for political mileage among those who have been isolated culturally.
Meanwhile, we can only hope that the people will not give too much credit to the wrongs, and select such chauvinistic leaders to "defend" the "R&R" - unless it is made necessary via confrontational methods of communication.
We all need to unlearn the "xenophobic" ideas of the "social contract", and discard our prejudices.
This goes for people of all religions, races and color - yes, me too.
Hope BR can do something to build trust among the people.
Peace guys.
Thursday, 13 March 2008
Hitch-Hiker's guide to Politicking.
It isn't a safe practice to pick up strangers and hitch-hikers these days. Those were the good ol' days when Hitch-hikers would thank you for the free ride.
These days, with the culture of Mat Rempits (with powerful patrons), snatch thefts, rape, robbery and murder, are the Thanks that you get.
Such is the case that we see with the Political parties that make up the Barisan Rakyat as we see it.
First we have our Old Man LKS saying that BR doesn't exist - he thought he was being very "politically savvy" by making that statement. He thought it was "cool" just because the people kept quiet in the heat of campaigning.
Now he raises a fuss when the Sultan of Perak selects a PAS candidate (of course he apologized, but the damage was done).
Not wanting to be left out, Syed Husin now decides to jump into the shit-pot so as to stir it further .... he wants to pullout for some crap - probably some poor orgasm he had last night!
Then in Selangor, we have the DAP trio, and the PAS candidate indulging in what one could almost call treasonous/ traitorous conduct that could derail the pact - that too, after they had knowingly signed the "People's Declaration"!!
One can almost hear the claps and laughter of the BN and their running dogs. Of course their twisted media would be having a field day casting doubts in the mind of the people on the viability of these state governments - which is definitely their intention.
This was made clear by UMNO Baru of Penang that made press statements, requesting that Federal aid for development in the state be suspended.
They wish to suspend aid to their own people simply becos they wish to punish the rakyat for excercising their constitutional rights!!
(Sigh ..... That is how much they care for their own citizens .)
In Yellow card for the opposition, Raja Petra writes that :
"In Selangor, Hassan Ali engaged in secret negotiations with Khir Toyo to explore the possibility of PAS forming an alliance with Umno to jointly rule the state. This alliance would of course exclude PKR and DAP who were going to be Menteri Besar and Deputy Menteri Besar respectively. The delay in forming the state government due to the disagreements and the DAP infighting about who should be the Deputy Menteri Besar meant that this would give Hassan and Khir time to come to an agreement. But they could not come to an agreement because both Hassan and Khir wanted to be Menteri Besar and none would back down in favour of the other.This is treason of the highest degree and Hassan Ali should be tied to a tree and shot."
RPK then goes on .....
"Is Kit Siang's 'stage-show' merely a distraction from what ails DAP in Selangor? Supporters of Teng Chang Khim, Teresa Kok and Ronnie Liu are locked in battle. Each has their clique that wants to see their candidate installed as the Deputy Menteri Besar of Selangor. But there is no Deputy Menteri Besar post and His Highness the Sultan of Selangor will not appoint one. So why bother to squabble over who should be the candidate to fill a post that does not exist? Yesterday, Teng's supporters held a demonstration to demand that their man gets appointed as the Deputy Menteri Besar. In spite of the announcement that there shall not be any Deputy Menteri Besar, today, they plan to hold another demonstration and MCA and Gerakan are going to send their supporters to help Teng mobilise a crowd of 10,000 to prove that his support is overwhelming........"
"And in other parts of Malaysia a couple of other PKR candidates were bought off as well, the going price being RM1 million per head. But it appears like PAS and DAP are bigger slime-balls than PKR. At least PKR did not try to sabotage the forming of the Kelantan, Kedah, Penang, Perak and Selangor state governments....."
"Let me tell you, my dear Kit, that Barisan Rakyat not only does exist but is also a very potent force."
==================
In response to the above I had written this letter to RPK in his comments section:
RPK Sir,
This was what I said long ago (as written in my blog – although targeting PAS more than DAP)- it is two idiotic oldies, PAS and DAP, that actually keep the BN in Power. They are ideological trojans to each other - favouring BN.
PKR is catching on too ....
They are both unwitting accomplices to the crimes committed by the BN regime.
The only difference is, they got shagged so bad for it all these years, that they've forgotten their true roles in society. (In fact, they've come to believe that it is their role to be just that!).
And also, they don't seem to know that it is the people who can and will decide if they are ready to rule.
All these years they've run their organizations as personal fiefdoms, in very much the same mold as that of BN parties - and they've come to believe that they're always right.
Both PAS & DAP have used the BR campaign as a political tool to gain power - an alliance of convenience to use the people, for their own interests.
Now - Syed Husin of PKR speaks like a Moronic “hero” to stir the shit ....... idiocy sure is infectious.
They did not see BR as a real & living entity, but as a marriage of convenience - they want all the credit for themselves!!!
They think it was a "trick" - an illusion.
They've actually come to believe that they were so "terror" in campaigning suddenly, or that "God" showered blessings on them miraculously.
They've become angkuh, sombong and bongkak so bloody fast! (either that, or they are just so shell-shocked by the scale/magnitude of their victory, that they've lost their minds).
They'd probably sneer at You, Haris and all bloggers/netizens if you told them otherwise.
They really don't deserve what they got - they got too much for too little (except in a few cases).
Maybe we should withdraw our support, give BN the state govts that they squabble over - only then will they realize that they had netizens campaigning for them for free, long before they even started their campaigns!
This is what happens when we give people a free ride - they try to rob you!
Give the word when the time is right, Pete - and we'll start the campaign to demolish them! Especially those turncoats who talk to BN parties (and seek their "support").
Let's show them that BR is Real.
I'm really sick of these lying fork-tongued maggots and faggots .... fighting for morsels like the stray "kurap" dogs that they are.
.............................................
But of course ....... the whole thing might've been a charade (aka wayang) so as to identify the traitors, and see the reactions from BN/ UMNO Baru and the rakyat ........
That seems a little far fetched - but should that be the case, hats of to all you guys for the perfect wayang.
But remember this DSAI/ LKG/ TGH - Barisan Rakyat does exist and is very much alive - even if it isn't formally on paper.
These days, with the culture of Mat Rempits (with powerful patrons), snatch thefts, rape, robbery and murder, are the Thanks that you get.
Such is the case that we see with the Political parties that make up the Barisan Rakyat as we see it.
First we have our Old Man LKS saying that BR doesn't exist - he thought he was being very "politically savvy" by making that statement. He thought it was "cool" just because the people kept quiet in the heat of campaigning.
Now he raises a fuss when the Sultan of Perak selects a PAS candidate (of course he apologized, but the damage was done).
Not wanting to be left out, Syed Husin now decides to jump into the shit-pot so as to stir it further .... he wants to pullout for some crap - probably some poor orgasm he had last night!
Then in Selangor, we have the DAP trio, and the PAS candidate indulging in what one could almost call treasonous/ traitorous conduct that could derail the pact - that too, after they had knowingly signed the "People's Declaration"!!
One can almost hear the claps and laughter of the BN and their running dogs. Of course their twisted media would be having a field day casting doubts in the mind of the people on the viability of these state governments - which is definitely their intention.
This was made clear by UMNO Baru of Penang that made press statements, requesting that Federal aid for development in the state be suspended.
They wish to suspend aid to their own people simply becos they wish to punish the rakyat for excercising their constitutional rights!!
(Sigh ..... That is how much they care for their own citizens .)
In Yellow card for the opposition, Raja Petra writes that :
"In Selangor, Hassan Ali engaged in secret negotiations with Khir Toyo to explore the possibility of PAS forming an alliance with Umno to jointly rule the state. This alliance would of course exclude PKR and DAP who were going to be Menteri Besar and Deputy Menteri Besar respectively. The delay in forming the state government due to the disagreements and the DAP infighting about who should be the Deputy Menteri Besar meant that this would give Hassan and Khir time to come to an agreement. But they could not come to an agreement because both Hassan and Khir wanted to be Menteri Besar and none would back down in favour of the other.This is treason of the highest degree and Hassan Ali should be tied to a tree and shot."
RPK then goes on .....
"Is Kit Siang's 'stage-show' merely a distraction from what ails DAP in Selangor? Supporters of Teng Chang Khim, Teresa Kok and Ronnie Liu are locked in battle. Each has their clique that wants to see their candidate installed as the Deputy Menteri Besar of Selangor. But there is no Deputy Menteri Besar post and His Highness the Sultan of Selangor will not appoint one. So why bother to squabble over who should be the candidate to fill a post that does not exist? Yesterday, Teng's supporters held a demonstration to demand that their man gets appointed as the Deputy Menteri Besar. In spite of the announcement that there shall not be any Deputy Menteri Besar, today, they plan to hold another demonstration and MCA and Gerakan are going to send their supporters to help Teng mobilise a crowd of 10,000 to prove that his support is overwhelming........"
"And in other parts of Malaysia a couple of other PKR candidates were bought off as well, the going price being RM1 million per head. But it appears like PAS and DAP are bigger slime-balls than PKR. At least PKR did not try to sabotage the forming of the Kelantan, Kedah, Penang, Perak and Selangor state governments....."
"Let me tell you, my dear Kit, that Barisan Rakyat not only does exist but is also a very potent force."
==================
In response to the above I had written this letter to RPK in his comments section:
RPK Sir,
This was what I said long ago (as written in my blog – although targeting PAS more than DAP)- it is two idiotic oldies, PAS and DAP, that actually keep the BN in Power. They are ideological trojans to each other - favouring BN.
PKR is catching on too ....
They are both unwitting accomplices to the crimes committed by the BN regime.
The only difference is, they got shagged so bad for it all these years, that they've forgotten their true roles in society. (In fact, they've come to believe that it is their role to be just that!).
And also, they don't seem to know that it is the people who can and will decide if they are ready to rule.
All these years they've run their organizations as personal fiefdoms, in very much the same mold as that of BN parties - and they've come to believe that they're always right.
Both PAS & DAP have used the BR campaign as a political tool to gain power - an alliance of convenience to use the people, for their own interests.
Now - Syed Husin of PKR speaks like a Moronic “hero” to stir the shit ....... idiocy sure is infectious.
They did not see BR as a real & living entity, but as a marriage of convenience - they want all the credit for themselves!!!
They think it was a "trick" - an illusion.
They've actually come to believe that they were so "terror" in campaigning suddenly, or that "God" showered blessings on them miraculously.
They've become angkuh, sombong and bongkak so bloody fast! (either that, or they are just so shell-shocked by the scale/magnitude of their victory, that they've lost their minds).
They'd probably sneer at You, Haris and all bloggers/netizens if you told them otherwise.
They really don't deserve what they got - they got too much for too little (except in a few cases).
Maybe we should withdraw our support, give BN the state govts that they squabble over - only then will they realize that they had netizens campaigning for them for free, long before they even started their campaigns!
This is what happens when we give people a free ride - they try to rob you!
Give the word when the time is right, Pete - and we'll start the campaign to demolish them! Especially those turncoats who talk to BN parties (and seek their "support").
Let's show them that BR is Real.
I'm really sick of these lying fork-tongued maggots and faggots .... fighting for morsels like the stray "kurap" dogs that they are.
.............................................
But of course ....... the whole thing might've been a charade (aka wayang) so as to identify the traitors, and see the reactions from BN/ UMNO Baru and the rakyat ........
That seems a little far fetched - but should that be the case, hats of to all you guys for the perfect wayang.
But remember this DSAI/ LKG/ TGH - Barisan Rakyat does exist and is very much alive - even if it isn't formally on paper.
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