Walk With RPK

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Raja Petra Kamarudin has been hauled up once again by the authorities for the write-up entitled "Let’s send the Altantuya murderers to hell" in the No Holds Barred column of Malaysia Today, wherein he demanded transparency in the case mentioned.

This is not the first time that Raja Petra has been hauled up.
The previous episode was when a police report was made by MMT (who incidently, has also joined the Umno Baru blogging bandwagon), alleging that RPK had "insulted the YDPA and Islam".

There is a campaign underway for funds (more like a solidarity campaign), requesting a donation of RM1.00 only, per person.
This is a campaign by the people in support of Justice, freedom of information, thought, conviction and speech.

The following is the article from Din Merican's blog:-

Save Raja Petra Campaign May 6, 2008

Dear Friends, Associates and Fellow Bloggers,

At this time (9.30 am) as I write this, Raja Petra Kamarudin is being charged with sedition in the Magistrate Court in Jalan Duta, Kuala Lumpur. It is in connection with his article on www.malaysia-today.net entitled “Let’s send the Altantuya murderers to Hell”.

RPK and I spoke last evening (May 5). He told me that his friends (including me) were planning a “Save RPK Campaign” which will include the raising of funds to enable him to meet bail and legal expenses in defending himself. I hope you all and readers of Malaysia-Today will be able to contribute rm1.00 per person (not more please) to a designated bank account. More details about the fundraising will be released later and you will be able to read it on this and other blogs.

Raja Petra and Din Merican

Funds in this account will be managed in an open and transparent manner.

You will no doubt know that defending oneself against a Government which is bent on repressing all forms of dissent is an expensive proposition, especially for RPK who is a retiree. Our present government is using all resources at its disposal —our tax dollars in fact—to prosecute one of its own citizens.
RPK is social activist who stands up for the rule of law and our fundamental rights under the constitution.

We must stand for transparency, civic duty and justice for RPK.—Din Merican

The "Mamak" Dilemma

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

"We are all Muslims. In the mosque, we pray behind the same imam, recite the same prayers and after we finish, we 'bersalaman' (shake hands). Yet, when we leave the mosque, our children are not given the same educational and economic opportunities. And we become divided."
- Hj. Dhajudeen Shahul Hameed, Sec Gen of PERMIM.

"Our children are literally like Muslim Malays .... contributing to to the country's economy and welfare and we have always supported the ruling government. All we ask for is the Bumiputra status so that our children can get into the public higher institution of learning."
- Dr. Hj. Syed Ibrahim, President of PERMIM.

"The Malays have three characteristics which form the basis of their strength.
Firstly, Malay is not an ethnic but a cultural entity. Everybody can become a Malay as long as they have the three characteristics: first is Islam, second - they speak Malay, and third, they adopt the Malay culture & tradition. If they have these three elements, even a European can be Malay."
- Professor Hashim Musa.

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

The above were quoted in the May 08 issue of Forward Magazine. Three different articles were written to highlight the "plight" of the Malaysian Indian Muslim community (click here for website).
The articles were entitled :-

1. Give us Bumiputra status and we can be one - Indian Muslims, by Zakiah Koya.
2. The 'Mamak' Complex , by Shahfizal Musa.
3. Uniting Factor: Race or Religion? - by Shahfizal Musa.
   

What I'd gather from the above is, Indian Muslim community in Malaysia are indeed feeling a little conflicted.
On one hand, they wish to be part of the Indian community so as to be able to preserve their rich heritage, and on the other, wish to be recognized as part of the Malay or Bumiputra community.
They have also taken their argument for the bumiputra status to the next level - by projecting the need for Muslim solidarity (and rightfully so).

While I applaud their pride in their heritage (unlike some UMNO Baru members who'd go to great lengths to do otherwise), it strikes me that the arguments presented are at best shallow, and hypocritical.

Despite their eloquence in demanding for their assimilation into "mainstream" Bumiputra/Malay community (while insisting on carrying the cultural baggage along) for the sake of economic gains, there was no arguments to condemn the very "evil" that has denied them the benefits of equal right.
On the contrary, they have justified the very evils (on religious unity/ grounds), by coveting the fruits of Racism and economic apartheid (which I thought was unIslamic). Maybe the short-cut to economic prosperity is too tempting .....

In all the arguments presented, there was hardly any argument presented with regard to the need for a Malaysian Malaysia.
Many have conveniently forgotten or have chosen to ignore the reality and evil, that has fractured the Nation as a whole over the last 25 yrs.
Many Indian Muslims today conveniently forget why the Muslims in MIC were sidelined, and thus not being able to enjoy the fruits of this corrupt system of divide and rule. They forget (or ignore) the reasons as to why why the Hindu majority sought to keep whatever little they had to themselves.
As a result of being dispossessed within the political power structure of MIC, they have chosen to "jump ship", and now seek membership in Malay political organisations (read Umno/ Umno Baru).

Mr. Dhajudeen and Dr. Syed say that they have contributed to the economy!
How sweet - Now can I know which community hasn't?
As for wanting access to education, I'd like to know if there's any community that doesn't want the same!
How convenient to demand it in the name of Islamic solidarity, while ignoring the Non-Muslims ....

Have any of them acknowledged the evils of Racism and Religious bigotry practised under the veil of the NEP (or the MDP)?
No they haven't!
They have ignored the evil that has successfully punished them for preserving their identity and heritage, and now stake a claim to their right to be part of it. In fact, they subtly claim that the Govt is unfair to them, for disregarding their "Muslim identity", which is equated to "being Malay".
Instead they have gone on to quote history, about how they brought lots of Indian culture, Islam to the Malays and being pioneers in MIC.

Many have also chosen to deny their heritage - as Zakiah said,"Many of those who had joined Umno but deemed to be Muslims of Indian origin, altogether refuse to acknowledge their ancestry for fear that this might sideline them in the Malay Party".
(We all know at least one person who fits this description, right?)
While many Malays who are accommodating may accept the Indian Muslims into their fold, to demand that they accept even those who carry plenty of cultural baggage is I believe a little far fetched.

Look at the Kuttys or the Maideens or Moideens .... they have successfully cut off all links to their rich heritage and embraced the Malay culture whole-heartedly.
In fact, many of these guys who have so successfully assimilated themselves into the Malay community that they can hardly speak their Malayalam or Tamil mother-tongue anymore. They not only speak like Malays, they even think and look like Malays (I'm not sure if everybody in Umno fits this description, though ....) - and voila - they are Bumiputras, who are entitled to the God-ordained "halal" percentage of shares, quotas and discounts of the NEP!
That's the way you do it, Mr. Dhajudeen/ Dr. Syed Ibrahim - not by being proud Indians or Malaysians!
Not by condemning the evils that destroy the nation, but by joining them in their exploits - Islamic/ethical or not. You need to be able to deny your heritage completely, and embrace something new!

Moving on, I'd like to give my two cents worth on Prof Hashim's comment on Malayness being a "cultural" & not an ethnic entity.
Apparently Being Malay consists of being Muslim, speaking Malay and practicing Malay traditions/customs. I've got no problems with the latter two .... but Islam as a crucial determinant of race & culture?
I do agree that it does play a role in determining the evolution of the cultural practices that characterizes a "race". However, that it is the prime determinant of a "race" or "Malayness" - I have my doubts.

Many Malay customs/traditions and cultural practices and arts aren't necessarily Islamic.
How is it that one can be practising "unIslamic" customs, and yet have Islam as a criteria for Malayness?
Would the Malays of old (the ancestors of todays Muslim Malays) who were Hindus, be today be considered Non-Malay?
Or is it that the "Malay" only came into existence upon embracing Islam?
What would a person be, (eg. Lina Joy, or Ayah Pin followers) should he/she renounce Islam?
Would they become this alien cultural entity called Non-Malay/ Non-Bumiputra?
I would really appreciate it if somebody could enlighten me on these matters.

Lastly, I'd urge the Indian Muslim community to take pride in being who they are, look at the big picture and reject the very evils that have alienated them from many an economic benefits, rather than being party to it.
Do not sell out your heritage, or sense of justice and fair play for economic gains.
Embrace Humanity and pluralism, and reject economic apartheid.
Refrain from joining a club of robbers, just becos you were robbed of your human rights by them.
If you do so, you would join the rest of Malaysians who see the ills of the nation, and are trying to make a change.
Remember that you are not alone in this struggle for justice.
Let us work together for a better future for all and sundry - not just the privileged few.
Thank you.


NOTE:
The usage of the Term "Mamak" in the Title of this write-up, isn't meant to offend any Malaysian in the Indian Muslim community.
It was only a repetition of the term used in the article entitled the "The Mamak Complex", and thus isn't intended as anything more than what the title meant in Forward magazine.
If anyone deems it "offensive", I'd edit it upon request.
Thank You.

Reply to TDM's Criticism on CheDet.com

"Politically, the opposition is the enemy. Being forced to work with the opposition is not undemocratic but it shows up the weakness of the Government.
A weak government is not good for multi-racial Malaysia. It leads to unwarranted challenges against its authority. Governments cannot please everybody."
- Tun Dr. Mahathir (CheDet.co.cc)

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

Dear TDM,

It is unbecoming of you to make sweeping statements based on personal sentiments and presumptions. That too, without really articulating your reasons for these statements.

I tell you most solemnly, Dear Sir - You lie.
You lie to yourself, and the people, when you imply that the Opposition are the "enemy".
Before I go further, allow me to say that I truly appreciate the positive, during your leadership - for that, I humbly thank you. What I wish to address are the negative, though.

The problem here Tun Sir, is that you perceive that the Government and party as your personal political tools despite your verbose DENIALS. Hence, the Opposition is your personal political enemy who can render you relatively powerless to manipulate the state and constitution at your pleasure.

However, you do desire also, one that is toothless, so as to permit an authoritarian Government which can disregard this "strong and toothless opposition" at liberty.
Since you appear to advocate this (strangely) "strong opposition", could you elaborate as to how this “strong opposition” in an authoritarian state should do its job with a “strong Govt” which it is powerless to oppose?

What you have expressed, is not of national interest, dear Sir. It is one of personal nature, as the "opposition" is only a "political enemy" to you, and your party's grip on power!
It is simply, only your perception that they are "enemies", which you impose upon the people who have chosen them.
You have effectively rendered the rakyat who disagree with you, "enemies".
It means you cannot accept any other opinion.

It also means, that you believe that you can only accept and work with those who say "Yes, Master!" - anybody else is the enemy! That should explain your style of governance for 22yrs, shouldn't it, Tun Sir?
However, you now go on to accuse AAB of being the same?

If you truly had a vision of building a stable state, you would have advocated a strong opposition that is a viable alternative to the elected government. You would recommend working with the people's representatives, and transcend partisan politics wherever possible.

This competition between the parties for excellence, would lead to a more secure future with a wider choice of quality leaders, as opposed to the litter of imbeciles that you left behind for AAB. Now you have conveniently dumped the blame on him, so that he becomes the nation's punching-bag.
What you propose Tun Sir, sets the stage for a corrupt and despotic regime that wouldn't relinquish its grip on power despite electoral defeat, as we see now in Zimbabwe, under your good friend - Mr Robert Mugabe.

Could you explain how you have come to the conclusion, that a Multi-racial Malaysia which has embraced and accepts (rather than "tolerates") its diversity, is a threat to a government that is willing to work with an opposition (or vice versa)?

You definitely wouldn't desire a harmonious state, where the government is controlled by the people who are confident of themselves.
In fact, you would prefer "strong government" that requires repressive laws to control an irrational and emotional people prone to "perceived insecurities", as a result of "fear mongering".

In short, what you propose is a "Nanny-state" that controls an infantile/insecure citizenry, that live in fear and mutual suspicion, with a “strong opposition” of clowns for posterity.
This of course what you consider the noble "Asian Values".

Sorry Sir - Malaysians aren't as infantile as you presume them to be - provided you choose to play up these fears of "May 13"(that has been the BN mantra) thru a servile media, as an excuse for what you propose.

No offense Tun Sir, but just as an irritable bladder in prostatism, your arguments don't hold no water!

What you propose is nothing but a formula for the slow destruction of a state that is governed by the sheer arrogance of power.
What it breeds is nothing more than an intellectually bankrupt future generation, which is what have today.

You question, "Why are these conciliatory gestures towards the Judiciary made now, and not in 2004?"
Allow me to do the honor of enlightening you, Tun Sir.

First and foremost, let me say that it is always better late than never.

May I ask, if not NOW, then when? Does it matter if it is done now becos the Rakyat have asserted themselves, and the govt has a smaller majority?
The Rakyat have spoken. They voted for change.
Now efforts are made towards achieving this - why do you oppose it? The Rakyat appreciate it, no matter how small the gesture may be - why don't you?

Why do you presume that the "opposition" would always do the wrong thing?

Your argument that the constitution can be changed only with a strong 2/3 majority is deeply flawed, Tun Sir. If the "opposition" feels that the proposal for amendments to constitution is warranted and reasonable, I'm quite certain that they would support it.

Is it becos you have been indoctrinated into the idea that MPs should “toe the Party line” even if it is a bad idea? Or is it becos, the MPs should posses a siege mentality, to remain on a party leash and should not transcend partisan politics in the interest of the people?
Unless of course, you believe that the state benefits from the countless number of amendments and subversion of the constitution (that is rendered to being toilet paper) by this “strong government” and a helpless but “strong opposition”.

Any support coming from the opposition, is deemed suspect - even if it means supporting the leadership. Considering the "talent" that you have left behind for AAB to work with, I'm not surprised that Pakatan Rakyat supports AAB. But of course, that is something you wouldn't like to see, as you've been calling for AABs head for some time now.

Yes, Tun Sir - You have every right to be concerned about the party that you "helped revive in 1987" after abandoning the democratic principles upon which it was built, and criticize as a citizen. And also about the precedent set, wherein the power is centralized to the President, and the members are powerless!
You have every right to be concerned about the pre-existing "little Napoleons" who started baring their teeth, after you handed over power to AAB. Indeed, you have every right to criticize the leadership that your "system of governance" helped create for AAB.
You have every right to be concerned about how AAB has failed to rein in the little Napoleons that you had created (unwittingly, or by design).
However you can rest easy & need not worry about AAB not having anyone to criticize him - we have enough capable MPs on the opposition bench, members of civil society movements, and a more liberal media for that.
We don't need any has beens stooping so low, as to come back to save his legacy of "Virtuous Govt" - thank you, Sir.

Yes Tun Sir – the system of political patronage and feudal mindset built on politics of fear that you propose to be perpetuated, has to be dismantled. It is the cancer that is tearing the nation apart.
The people need to be given the freedom to voice out their opinions, in a climate of trust, instead of suspicion and fear, which perpetuates a siege mentality.
The Nanny-state of “Asian Values” that you propose doesn't work, unless you desire an insecure and timid public - A public that surrenders their rights to “leaders” willingly amidst plenty of chest-thumping patriotism, “to keep the peace, harmony & tolerance”, while the state decides if your convictions are criminal, even if doesn't hurt a fly.

It strikes me that you have a desire to be considered a liberal (as Machiavelli might recommend) by advocating a "strong opposition" in an authoritarian state!
How sweet of you .... ;-)

You want a “strong opposition” but no opposition to your plans in parliament, regardless of the consequences.

Like another reader said in your comments section, “Is that an oxymoron, or what?” Have a coffee, think about it or simply sleep on it, Sir.
I'm sure you'll think of something .....

Thank You.

Redefining, Respinning, Repackaging "Ketuanan Melayu".

(image by the one and only FFT)

"If they are not successful and developed, then they are not tuan (masters), therefore they will be coolies (labourers). I am sure we do not want to become coolies who do not play any role in development because we are weak and not able.
We are not going to be a race that dominates others.
We want to be a party that represents the Malays and that is ready to cooperate for the future of Malays and the people."

'That is Malay supremacy and I hope people will understand it.'

- Mr. AAB

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


Oh Yes, Mr. PM - we understand it very well, alright!
Let us now see what that meant thus far ....

"If they are not successful and developed, then they are not tuan (masters), therefore they will be coolies (labourers)."

Isn't that a pity now ....
Success and development to you means - being the "Tuan"?
Yep - who cares if they are so stupid that they even "tutup sebelah mata", talk about "wayar putuih", "terowongs" or "bocor" stuff in parliament. In fact they can be so stupid that they build their mansions amidst slums.
Or maybe you could create of tax-evading, scoundrel, "kayu", successful entrepreneurs/industrialists/businessmen with mega concessions, for the swindling of Mega-corporations, to be primed for mega bail-outs "in the interests of the stupid tax-paying working class", right?
Only then can you put a face on the Tuan ... or maybe a Tuan on the face!

And you mean that Ketuanan Melayu looks down on the very respectable, vital and essential "Labour" - class? Nice thing to say with the coming Labour Day .....
No wonder we have so many instant "Malaysians from Seberang"!
No wonder Malaysia attracts the scum, while other nations take the cream!
Hell, yeah man- why didn't I think of it ......
Only then, without their trade unions, can you pay them pittance and whack the repressed, suppressed, uneducated, "underclass" and stupid "beast-of -burden" coolies who do not play any role in development because we are weak and not able, right?

Hmmmm ... so "Ketuanan" means being the "taikor" lah - one who can only work in air-conditioned rooms, push pencils in suits, have women and wives all made-up to sit pretty or go globe-trotting with charity monies, huh!
Great - So far so good .....

However,
"We are not going to be a race that dominates others."

How's that, Pat Lah ... I mean, Pak Lah?
You mean to say that the "Nons" can now be truly competing with "UMNOputras" on a level playing field, without paying "rent" to (30-50% stake holding) Ali Babas who push up the overheads?
All non-performing GLCs would definitely be shutdown for good to reduce wastage of public funds, .....
Certainly, the same would also go for deals sealed under the OSA, right?
Then beneficieries of open tenders would surely be expected to perform in all their endeavours, and deliver the goods that they promise - or pay damages, right?
The bloated civil service will, I'm sure, start recruiting servants to serve the people instead of UMNO Baru, regardless of gender, ethnicity or political affiliation. And promotions would be granted based on the same values of merit, right?
Oh yes- I'm so sure, that I believe that you wouldn't settle for mediocrity and "connections" in selecting all future candidates for the above.
Definitely, you plan to introduce a system of Meritocracy that will reward academic excellence, right?
You'll be a national hero (to the "nons") if you can reduce our costs, Pak Lah!!!

Whaaat!! No?
What do you mean - no?
You mean the Tuans cannot be subject to the same rules becos they are Tuans?
Damn!!!
Here I was, almost thinking that it only meant what is explicitly stated in the constitution about the "special rights" & Sultan/ Raja-raja Melayu only, as Shahrir said!

Okay, fine - Let's move on .......
"We want to be a party that represents the Malays and that is ready to cooperate for the future of Malays and the people."

Hey - but if I'm a citizen, and I'm a "non" who voted you in, UMNO Baru or not - aren't you supposed to represent me as well?
But of course, how can a nigger second class citizen be represented by the "Tuan", right?
Silly me ...........
For that I'm sure you need some second class niggers, who'll "cooperate" and do your bidding, so as to be patted like pet dogs feeding on morsels dropped from your feast at the table.
........... - and Bingo!
You've hit your jackpot in your BN allies, Pak Lah!

Yeah- now let's see what "cooperation" with niggers mean:-
We understand how the neutered running dogs you called "allies" in BN grinned, and were apologists for UMNOBaru's "Ketuanan Melayu" rhetoric and the Kris waving.
We understand how they whimpered & cowered, or were shut up with juicy morsels, while the people were getting buggered.

We understand how they have suddenly become bolder after their Tuans were raped breathless, in the elections.
Isn't that so typical of "toy" pets growling when their masters are threatened?
Yes, we understand how the "Tuans" (like Mr. Chris) are now peeing in their pants, and struggling for words to redefine your policies.
We also understand how you're begging for the people's support, by asking Mr. Chris to make a HP6 "apology", that - looks like it, sounds like it, but isn't quite it.
The silence of your hardly-weaned political blue-eyed-boy of the 4th floor is quite deafening too.

But not to worry .... those who want your head, don't have much of a choice- thanks to Che Det-osaurus, who succesfully pruned away the Malay intellectuals from UMNO Baru!
He sure is a funny guy, when he tries to be "cool" in the international media, with his foolish pseudo-intellectual and shameless antics (which happens to make some "Tuans" burst with pride!) .......
You sure are a lucky man - in a house full of blind devotees and the party-pooping has-been three stooges (of the Mongoloid, the Coolie and the Che Det-osaurus) on the sidelines, you can hold on for some more time, before the house comes down.
You want a better chance of survival, get rid of ISA and exorcise all the ghosts of "Che Det" in the party, Government, Police and Judiciary - once and for all.
That is the only saving grace and legacy that you'd be remembered for, if you so desire.

As somebody said, these nugget of wisdom, comes from the "Heart of my Bottom" for Mr. AAB!

Thank You, Mr. PM - the stupid people (or so you believe) definitely understand it when you said 'That is Malay supremacy and I hope people will understand it.'
Correct, Correct, Correct .......
Just Keep Hoping ...... meanwhile, we could be major promoters for Slumberland Mattresses, right?

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Further reading:-

• Racism, Makkal Sakthi, HINDRAF and ISA

The Islamic Renaissance - Really?

Any society that would give up a little liberty,
to gain a little security,
will deserve neither and lose both.
-Benjamin Franklin

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The following was my response to the article "The Islamic Renaissance" posted on Malaysia Today.
Before I go on, I must say that the article was pretty much "balanced" and was a good read.
In giving my response to the article, please bear in mind that I do not question the validity of Islamic ideas here.
What I question is nothing more than the rhetoric of politicians who claim to be Muslims, and seek legitimacy by using Islam for their own political agendas.

The way I look at it, all religions teach ethics, which necessarily has political dimensions - but this cannot be used as a reason for politicization of religion.
The argument that "Islam is comprehensive, whereas other religions aren't" doesn't make much sense (at least, as far as I'm concerned!).
Many "Islamist" Muslim politicians and faithful stand firm on the opinion that Islamic governments, is the only way forward for them without really understanding what "Modern Statecraft" and Economics is all about - all these, while carrying plenty of Arab "cultural excess-baggage".

They tout it for the simple reason that it grants them "divine legitimacy", with a docile citizenry "cowering in submission to divine providence", while taking pride in their perceived superiority "others" who are forced to accept "handicaps" in one way or other.

"Liberty & Democracy" are often only there for show, while the reality is quite different in these dictatorships.
The rabid rhetoric of most "Muslim Leaders" against the "west" is nothing but, a manifestation of inferiority complex, anger, despair and envy over the prosperity of these nations.

Of course, there are many non-Muslim nations too, that possess and practise these very same characteristics/ "virtues". They however, have other names for it - like "Asian Values", "Guided Democracy", "Confucianism", "Communism", etc., etc., etc.
The difference here is, they do not use "religion" or trumpet the word of "God" to justify their actions - at least, not anymore ....... or not so much as seen among the Muslim populace.
However, just as much as the idea of the Islamic State is promoted, there are fundamentalist elements of many known religions (Christian, Hindu, Buddhist) that advocate theocracy - each as per their own definition, serving their own selfish interests.
As such, the opinions mentioned here, is very much applicable to chauvinistic bigots who herald the coming/rise/renaissance of virtuous theocracies of their own definitions.
So, here is what I wrote in reply:-
--------------------------------------


I really don't understand this obsession with being part of the "Islamic world", when those leaders who claim to be Muslims practise the most decadent and repressive forms of government.

These guys are the most likely to go to war today with the flimsiest excuse, are almost unable to negotiate diplomatic solutions to political problems, and are prone to emotional and egoistic outbursts, that cater to simpletons at the mercy of the clerics' (who can't think, but are excellent at reciting verses) dictates!
Their "thinkers" are more often than not, pseudo-intellectual simpletons who are spin doctors for their dictators, who enact laws at their whim and fancy (with religious justifications, of course).

Most Muslim leaders of the world are driven by their lust for glory, power and wealth - hence their lamentations and envy of the "western/ Jewish/ Christian" economies.
Modernity, Financial strenth and political might doesn't come from the money churned out from the ground - it comes from freedom, good philosophy, good governance and ethics, with respect for mankind.
These concepts are totally lost on most chest-thumping, Quran-brandishing, Gun-toting pseudo-intellectual leaders of the "Islamic World" (including Mahadey, who is idolized as a great thinker by many Muslims), where dictatorships thrive under the guise of "virtuous Islamic laws".
Freedom and Democracy are concepts that aren't quite welcome in most Muslim dominated nations - they claim to have this strange self-righteous "need" for control over the "stupid commoners", who apparently "need a psychological leash" on them.

What we see, is a large group of people who are psychologically "enslaved" by the Arab cultural domination that has used Islam as their battle-cry, in their attempt to "colonise the minds of the free world - and to establish a "Virtuous Caliphate" (whatever that means).
They covet the same wealth and power that the "western world", by using the liberties granted to them in the "west", to subvert the very culture that gives them sustainance, with "arab" tribal laws (which they claim, are superior - it beats me where they get that idea from).

Many Muslims appear to have the simplistic misconception of Islam, that to be Muslim, one has to be "Arabised" and cannot be "westernised" - thus the "anti-western" (whatever that means) bigotry.
They thrive on their rhetoric of casting the "Kufr" (especially Jews) in bad light, in one way or other, while practising the very same (or worse) sins under the veil of religiosity.
This NEEDS to be done, so as to make themselves look good, as their virtues aren't much to talk about.
Just as any man in denial, this fact is however always refuted as "fitna" of some sort.

This phenomenon is no different from "Racism" - and those who practise it suffer from nothing less than a deep seated inferiority complex.
An Islamic Renaissance?
I don't think so .... sounds more like confusion in a modern world to me.

"Hindraf"'s support for Online Petition Against ISA

The Following Letter was posted today on the blog

A Malaysian Indian's View :-

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

Sign Petition To Abolish I.S.A

Dear readers,

Kindly support the petition to abolish I.S.A. As of today, they only (23rd April 2008) received 1024 signatures. The slow respond mainly due to not enough of advertisement. Please dissipate the message to concern citizens.
I.S.A is an act of abuse against human right in democratic country. ISA has been used by the executive arm to ridicule and harass those pursuing some justified causes. The link is as below:

http://www.petitiononline.com/NoISA/petition.html

Pls pass this around to all your friends and family if you care that human rights must be respected.

Thanks,
HINDRAF Penang

HINDRAF calls on the Malaysian government:
Immediately Release All I.S.A Detainees!
Abolish I.S.A !
Close Down The Kamunting Detention Camp !

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

Thank You "Hindraf", for showing your solidarity with all Malaysians, in the struggle for justice.

Makkal Sakthi!

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

Further Reading:-

• Aliran's ISA Watch

Racism, Makkal Sakthi, HINDRAF and ISA

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

"If some men are entitled by right to the products of the work of others, it means that those others are deprived of rights and condemned to slave labor."
-- Ayn Rand

"Racism is the lowest, most crudely primitive form of collectivism. It is the notion of ascribing moral, social or political significance to a man's genetic lineage -- the notion that a man's intellectual and characterological traits are produced and transmitted by his internal body chemistry. Which means, in practice, that a man is to be judged, not by his own character and actions, but by the characters and actions of a collective of ancestors."
-Ayn Rand, "Racism" (An article published in the September, 1963 issue of The Objectivist Newsletter ), The Virtue of Selfishness .

Do not ghettoize society by putting people into legal categories of gender, race, ethnicity, language, or other such characteristics.
-Preston Manning

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

Raja Petra had recently written an article in the No Holds Barred section of Malaysia Today, entitled "Let’s cut this racial crap".
It was basically about the racial premise for the struggle to the "Free the Hindraf-5" campaign, which ignored the other detainees and ISA as a whole.
With this regard, I agree very much with what Raja Petra has to say.

Malaysia needs to be exorcized of all forms racism and its ghosts, that has been deeply entrenched in the minds and hearts of all Malaysians.

As things are, Racism is practised in Malaysia under the guise of Race-Based Politics of Barisan National and the affirmative action called the NEP (which has been given a fresh coat of paint, with a new name - MDP, is it?).
Racism cannot be accepted when it is in your favour and then condemned, when it works against you.

We all need to come out strongly against this Devil, even when it dresses as an Angel - it has to be stamped out in all its forms, appealing or not as it may seem for the moment.

Many Malaysians of Tamil descent, claim to be "Indian" first, despite not knowing jack about India, have never set foot on Indian soil (if they did, possibly never beyond Tamil Nadu - a small state), nor understand its diversity/culture and history.
Many think that, to be "Indian", one needs to know & practice Tamil culture or use Tamil language!

But of course .... the "knowledge about Indian culture" peddled by the cheap and mindless entertainment channels like Vaanavil would very much be close to the hearts of these Malaysians of Indian descent, as are the "Chennai-wood" film stars and Tamil Nadu politics.

To many "Indians" of Malaysian descent (or is it supposed to be vice versa?), the "Makkal Sakthi" rallying call, indicated "Indian" political might/resurgence.
Many "Indians" were proud of it.
They however, did not see it as a cry for "People Power".
They did not see it as a battle-cry for justice and good governance!

To them it simply highlighted only the plight of the "Indians" (specifically, Tamilians) in Malaysia.
To a certain extent, “Makkal Sakthi” in their minds, meant that it was the rise of the “Tamilian Political Power” (or so they thought)!

Many of the "Indians" are today coming out against ISA becos they wish to fight for the release of the Hindraf-5 "Indians".
I never agreed with the "Free the Hindraf-5" idea/ campaign, simply becos it is a very selfish campaign. It was simply becos of their narrow ethnocentric concerns that I never supported Hindraf.
These guys, while complaining about racism, use a racial platform to air their grouses.

I just don't get it ... what's with these HINDRAF guys?
Do we need a racial "badge" or platform for a common struggle?
What is so wrong about fight for freedom of worship and economic benefits for all downdrodden Malaysians?
What is so difficult about fighting apartheid?
Don't they see the bigger picture?
Don't they care about other Malaysians?
Can't they stand alongside their Malaysian brothers for a common struggle?

Are they so blind that they do not see the bigger picture – that it is this very Ghetto-esque idea of “ethno-centric” ideals that has got them into the current predicament?
As wrong as it may be, sometimes I feel all racists and religious extremists need to get “whacked” for "incitement" of racist sentiments- not ISA, though (not anymore).

They don't give two hoots (maybe don't even know) about the rest!
Not becos they disagree about ISA, or detention without trial.
In fact I'll bet my last dollar that 99% don't even know what ISA is.

I do not dispute, that their struggle for justice is warranted.
I only, simply dispute the "morality" of the platform upon which they have built their struggle!
I dispute the validity of the argument that their narrow “exclusive”, ethno-centric, isolationist, Tamil-Hindu platform for their struggle, appeals to all communities (vi-a-vis) of Malaysia.
This self-centred struggle that only appeals to the dispossessed Tamil community would be a curse to the very community that they champion, as it further isolates them from the bigger picture of national integration.
Their supporters (not all, mind you) seem to perceive that, all that matters, is the "emancipation of the Tamil-Hindu community"!

One commenter on Malaysia Today had this to say to me:-
“We have far too many UMNOPUTRAS at hand and we do not want to add you to its number!”

Yes – we do have far to many UMNOPutras at hand.
But I believe his argument is flawed, should he simply take my argument against Hindraf at face-value.
Just because I do not agree with the “Ketuanan Melayu”, doesn't mean I should support Hindraf, does it?
Am I obliged to support the “Free the Hindraf-5” campaign, simply because their struggle for justice did help galvanize the Barisan Rakyat cause?

No Sir, I'm definitely not obliged to support the ethnocentric platform of Hindraf, UMNOputra or not!

Allow me to ask a few questions here ......

If they were sincere about their struggle for all Malaysians, why did they not oppose the racist MIC leadership that subtly preaches Ketuanan Tamil (for what it is worth) from the very beginning?
Why did they hesitate for so long to declare that the MIC leadership is irrelevant?
Why did they not stand or walk with BERSIH?
Simply becos they chose to keep their struggle to themselves!

It is as simple as that.

In fact, I recollect quite clearly, their "strong support" for the leadership of BN, UMNO Baru & MIC, despite the fact that temples were being demolished by these very people!

This simply means that they did not wish their struggle to be part of the greater "MALAYSIAN" agenda, but a selfish, isolationist, Tamilian-centric one.

How different are they from the racist elements of the BN/ Alliance?

How different are they?

How different are they from those who fight for Ketuanan Melayu?

How different are they from those who fight for the utopian “Islamic State”?

I even recollect a regular commenter (and a former MIC supporter) here saying that they (HINDRAF) support the current government/leadership, but only dispute the implementation/delivery of the benefits!
It was only when they were behind bars that they chose to reexamine the premises for their struggle!

It took them a long time to actually support the Barisan Rakyat informal alliance (now, the Pakatan Rakyat), despite the fact that it was only the “Opposition” that gave them any moral support!
It was only when they realized the futility and folly in supporting the racist government that they lent BR their support!

Don't get me wrong – I do not challenge the “universal & egalitarian” ideals that they represent (as argued by a commenter on Malaysia Today), but only the ethno-centric nature of their struggle.

It is not that I support ISA, their detention, nor do I reject the call for their release - on the contrary, I too demand their release! However, I do not support a “Free Hindraf-5” campaign per se, as it narrows down the big picture!

As Raja Petra says, we need to “Free all ISA detainees & Abolish ISA”.

Period.

The "Free the Hindraf-5" campaign may not be wrong ... but it certainly isn't right!

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"Capitalism knows only one color: that color is green; all else is necessarily subservient to it, hence, race, gender and ethnicity cannot be considered within it."
-Thomas Sowell

"The question of whether one alleges the superiority or the inferiority of any given race is irrelevant; racism has only one psychological root: the racist's sense of his own inferiority."
- Ayn Rand

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Further reading:

1. Excerpts from :"Racism" by Ayn Rand
   
2. COLLECTIVISM vs. INDIVIDUALISM
3. Racism & Psychology