29 September 2008
YAB Dato’ Seri Abdullah Badawi
Prime Minister of Malaysia
5th Floor, East Wing
Perdana Putra Building
Putrajaya
Malaysia
Dear Mr Prime Minister
In our proclamation of independence, our first Prime Minister gave voice to the lofty aspirations and dreams of the people of Malaya: that Malaya was founded on the principles of liberty and justice, and the promise that collectively we would always strive to improve the welfare and happiness of its people.
Many years have passed since that momentous occasion and those aspirations and dreams remain true and are as relevant to us today as they were then. This was made possible by a strong grasp of fundamentals in the early period of this nation. The Federal Constitution and the laws made pursuant to it were well founded; they embodied the key elements of a democracy built on the Rule of Law. The Malaysian Judiciary once commanded great respect from Malaysians and was hailed as a beacon for other nations. Our earlier Prime Ministers, Tunku Abdul Rahman, Tun Razak and Tun Hussein Onn were truly leaders of integrity, patriots in their own right and most importantly, men of humility. They believed in and built this nation on the principles and values enunciated in our Constitution.
Even when they had to enact the Internal Security Act (ISA) 1960, they were very cautious and apologetic about it. Tunku stated clearly that the Act was passed to deal with the communist threat. “My cabinet colleagues and I gave a solemn promise to Parliament and the nation that the immense powers given to the Government under the ISA would never be used to stifle legitimate opposition and silent lawful dissent”, was what the Tunku said. Our third Prime Minister Tun Hussein Onn reinforced this position by saying that the ISA was not intended to repress lawful political opposition and democratic activity on the part of the citizenry.
The events of the last three weeks have compelled me to review the way in which the ISA has been used. This exercise has sadly led me to the conclusion that the Government has time and time again failed the people of this country in repeatedly reneging on that solemn promise made by Tunku Abdul Rahman. This has been made possible because the Government and the law have mistakenly allowed the Minister of Home Affairs to detain anyone for whatever reason he thinks fit. This subjective discretion has been abused to further certain political interests.
History is the great teacher and speaks volumes in this regard. Even a cursory examination of the manner in which the ISA has been used almost from its inception would reveal the extent to which its intended purpose has been subjugated to the politics of the day.
Regrettably, Tunku Abdul Rahman himself reneged on his promise. In 1965, his administration detained Burhanuddin Helmi, the truly towering Malay intellectual, a nationalist who happened to be a PAS leader. He was kept in detention until his death in 1969. Helmi was a political opponent and could by no stretch of the imagination be considered to have been involved in the armed rebellion or communism that the ISA was designed to deal with. This detention was an aberration, a regrettable moment where politics had been permitted to trump the rule of law. It unfortunately appears to have set a precedent and many detentions of persons viewed as having been threatening to the incumbent administration followed through the years. Even our literary giant, ‘sasterawan negara’ the late Tan Sri A Samad Ismail was subjected to the ISA in 1976. How could he have been a threat to national security?
I need not remind you of the terrible impact of the 1987 Operasi Lalang. Its spectre haunts the Government as much as it does the peace loving people of this nation, casting a gloom over all of us. There were and still are many unanswered questions about those dark hours when more than a hundred persons were detained for purportedly being threats to national security. Why they were detained has never been made clear to Malaysians. Similarly, no explanation has been forthcoming as to why they were never charged in court. Those detainees included amongst their numbers senior opposition Members of Parliament who are still active in Parliament today. The only thing that is certain about that period was that UMNO was facing a leadership crisis. Isn’t it coincidental that the recent spate of ISA arrests has occurred when UMNO is again having a leadership crisis?
In 2001, Keadilan ‘reformasi’ activists were detained in an exercise that the Federal Court declared was in bad faith and unlawful. The continued detention of those that were not released earlier in the Kamunting detention facility was made possible only by the fact that the ISA had been questionably amended in 1988 to preclude judicial review of the Minister’s order to detain. Malaysians were told that these detainees had been attempting to overthrow the Government via militant means and violent demonstrations. Seven years have gone and yet no evidence in support of this assertion has been presented. Compounding the confusion even further, one of these so-called militants, Ezam Mohamad Noor, recently rejoined UMNO to great fanfare, as a prized catch it would seem.
At around the same time, members of PAS were also detained for purportedly being militant and allegedly having links to international terrorist networks. Those detained included Nik Adli, the son of Tuan Guru Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat the Menteri Besar of Kelantan. Malaysians were made a promise by the Government that evidence of the alleged terrorist activities and links of these detainees would be disclosed. To date no such evidence has been produced.
The same formula was used in late 2007 when the HINDRAF 5 were detained. Malaysians were told once again that these individuals were involved in efforts to overthrow the Government and had links with the militant Liberation Tiger of Tamil Eelam of Sri Lanka. To date no concrete evidence have been presented to support this assertion. It would seem therefore that the five were detained for their involvement in efforts that led to a mobilisation of Malaysian Indians to express, through peaceful means, their frustration against the way in which their community had been allowed to be marginalised. This cause has since been recognised as a legitimate one. The HINDRAF demonstration is nothing extraordinary as such assemblies are universally recognised as being a legitimate means of expression.
In the same vein, the grounds advanced in support of the most recent detentions of Tan Hoon Cheng, Teresa Kok and Raja Petra Kamarudin leave much to be desired. The explanation that Tan Hoon Cheng was detained for her own safety was farcical. The suggestion that Teresa Kok had been inciting religious sentiments was unfounded as was evinced by her subsequent release.
As for Raja Petra Kamarudin, the prominent critic of the Government, a perusal of his writings would show that he might have been insulting of the Government and certain individuals within it. However, being critical and insulting could not in any way amount to a threat to national security. If his writings are viewed as being insulting of Islam, Muslims or the Holy Prophet (pbuh), he should instead be charged under the Penal Code and not under the ISA. In any event, he had already been charged for sedition and criminal defamation in respect of some of his statements. He had claimed trial, indicating as such his readiness and ability to defend himself. Justice would best be served by allowing him his day in court more so where, in the minds of the public, the Government is in a position of conflict for having been the target of his strident criticism.
The instances cited above strongly suggest that the Government is undemocratic. It is this perspective that has over the last 25 plus years led to the Government seemingly arbitrarily detaining political opponents, civil society and consumer advocates, writers, businessmen, students, journalists whose crime, if it could be called that, was to have been critical of the Government. How it is these individuals can be perceived as being threats to national security is beyond my comprehension. The self-evident reality is that legitimate dissent was and is quashed through the heavy-handed use of the ISA.
There are those who support and advocate this carte-blanche reading of the ISA. They will seek to persuade you that the interests of the country demand that such power be retained, that Malaysians owe their peace and stability to laws such as the ISA. This overlooks the simple truth that Malaysians of all races cherish peace. We lived together harmoniously for the last 400 years, not because of these laws but in spite of them.
I believe the people of this country are mature and intelligent enough to distinguish actions that constitute a ‘real’ threat to the country from those that threaten political interests. Malaysians have come know that the ISA is used against political opponents and, it would seem, when the leadership is under challenge either from within the ruling party or from external elements.
Malaysians today want to see a Government that is committed to the court process to determine guilt or innocence even for alleged acts of incitement of racial or religious sentiment. They are less willing to believe, as they once did, that a single individual, namely the Minister of Home Affairs, knows best about matters of national security. They value freedom and the protection of civil liberties and this is true of people of other nations too.
Mr Prime Minister, the results of the last General Election are clear indication that the people of Malaysia are demanding a reinstatement of the Rule of Law. I was appointed as your, albeit short-lived, Minister in charge of legal affairs and judicial reform. In that capacity, I came to understand more keenly how many of us want reform, not for the sake of it, but for the extent to which our institutions have been undermined by events and the impact this has had on society.
With your blessing, I attempted to push for reform. High on my list of priorities was a reinstatement of the inherent right of judicial review that could be enabled through a reversion of the key constitutional provision to its form prior to the controversial amendment in 1988. I need not remind you that that constitutional amendment was prompted by the same series of events that led not only to Operasi Lalang but the sacking of the then Lord President and two supreme court justices. Chief amongst my concerns was the way in which the jurisdiction and the power of the Courts to grant remedy against unconstitutional and arbitrary action of the Executive had been removed by Parliament and the extent to which this had permitted an erosion of the civil liberties of Malaysians. It was this constitutional amendment that paved the way for the ouster provision in the ISA that virtually immunises the Minister from judicial review, a provision which exemplifies the injustice the constitutional amendment of 1988 has lent itself.
I also sought to introduce means by which steps could be taken to assist the Judiciary to regain the reputation for independence and competence it once had. Unfortunately, this was viewed as undesirable by some since an independent Judiciary would mean that the Executive would be less ‘influential’.
I attempted to do these things and more because of the realisation that Malaysia’s democratic traditions and the Rule of Law are under siege. Anyway, there is nothing wrong with giving everyone an independent Judiciary and the opportunity to a fair trial. This is consistent with the universal norms of human rights as it is with the tenets of Islam, the religion of the Federation. Unchecked power to detain at the whim of one man is oppressiveness at its highest. Even in Israel, a nation that is perpetually at war, the power to detain is not vested in one man and detention orders require endorsement from a judge.
If there are national security considerations, then these can be approached without jettisoning the safeguards intended to protect individual citizens from being penalised wrongfully. In other jurisdictions involved in armed conflicts, trials are held in camera to allow for judicial scrutiny of evidence considered too sensitive for public disclosure so as to satisfy the ends of justice. If this can be done in these jurisdictions, why not here where the last armed struggle we saw, the very one that precipitated the need for the ISA, came to an end in the 1980s? Any doubts as to the continued relevance of the ISA in its present form should have been put to rest by the recommendation by the National Human Rights Commission (SUHAKAM) that the ISA be repealed and an anti-terror legislation suited to the times enacted in its place. Containing as it did a sunset clause in its original times, the ISA was never intended to be a permanent feature on the Malaysian legal landscape.
Through its continued use in the manner described above and in the face of public sentiment, it is only natural that the ISA has become in the mind of the people an instrument of oppression and the Government is one that lends itself to oppressiveness. Its continued use does not bode well for a society that is struggling to find its place in the global arena. It does not bode well for the democracy that is so vital for us to develop sustainably.
Mr Prime Minister, I remember very clearly what you once said; that if one has the opportunity to do what is good and right for the country, then he must take on the task. I respect you deeply for that and if I were confident that I would have been able to do some good for Malaysia, I would have remained on your team. Sir, you are still the Prime Minister and you still have the opportunity to leave your footprint in Malaysian history. I urge you to do so by repealing the ISA once and for all.
Let us attempt to fulfil that solemn promise made by our beloved first Prime Minister to the people of this country.
Yours sincerely
ZAID IBRAHIM
Kuala Lumpur
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Anti-ISA vigil turns into peace march - Malaysiakini
About 2,000 people marched from the Dataran Merdeka to the Hindu temple opposite the Puduraya bus terminal in solidarity against the Internal Security Act. More news at: www.malaysiakini.com
Monday, September 29, 2008
Councillor who took sexual favours sacked - Star
IPOH: Sept 29, 2008
The state government has declared as vacant the post of Perak Tengah district councillor, held by Zul Hassan who is facing a corruption charge and admitted to having accepted sexual favours.
The move which was quickly hailed by Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR).
“Zul Hassan, who is under investigation by the Anti-Corruption Authority (ACA), had not only issued a statement confessing to illicit sex, but also justified his decision by saying he was induced into committing thw immoral act,” PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said in a statement.
“Such a statement makes a mockery of Pakatan Rakyat’s pledge towards a government that respects the trust of the people,” she said.
Zul Hassan is facing a corruption charge over a development project at Seri Iskandar in Perak Tengah. In a complaint that he lodged against one Mohamad Imran Abdullah, he and businessman Fairul Azrim Ismail admitted having accepted offers to have sex with Chinese nationals.
Mohamad Imran is the complainant in a corruption case in which Zul and four others are the accused.
Zul Hassan had been quoted as saying “what is important is we did not ask for the women. He supplied them to us. If people sedekah (donate), don’t you want to accept it?”
Dr Wan Azizah said the PKR disciplinary committee will deal with Zul Hassan, who will be asked to explain his statement above.
The state government has declared as vacant the post of Perak Tengah district councillor, held by Zul Hassan who is facing a corruption charge and admitted to having accepted sexual favours.
The move which was quickly hailed by Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR).
“Zul Hassan, who is under investigation by the Anti-Corruption Authority (ACA), had not only issued a statement confessing to illicit sex, but also justified his decision by saying he was induced into committing thw immoral act,” PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said in a statement.
“Such a statement makes a mockery of Pakatan Rakyat’s pledge towards a government that respects the trust of the people,” she said.
Zul Hassan is facing a corruption charge over a development project at Seri Iskandar in Perak Tengah. In a complaint that he lodged against one Mohamad Imran Abdullah, he and businessman Fairul Azrim Ismail admitted having accepted offers to have sex with Chinese nationals.
Mohamad Imran is the complainant in a corruption case in which Zul and four others are the accused.
Zul Hassan had been quoted as saying “what is important is we did not ask for the women. He supplied them to us. If people sedekah (donate), don’t you want to accept it?”
Dr Wan Azizah said the PKR disciplinary committee will deal with Zul Hassan, who will be asked to explain his statement above.
Koh: 60% want Gerakan to leave BN - Sun
BUT WE HAVE TO GO BEYOND SENTIMENTS, PARTY TOLD
KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 28, 2008): by Maria J. Dass
Although the sentiment among the grassroots for Gerakan to leave Barisan Nasional (BN) is prevalent because of incidents that took place over the last two months, the party is adopting a cautious stand as it needs to examine and ponder over its survival post-BN.
"At least 60% say 'let us be relieved of this burden', which is considered an emotional burden, but we have to go beyond that, we have to go beyond sentiments," the party's acting president, Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, said today.
"Now, after the initial feelings and sentiments because of things that have happened, especially in the last one to two months, have subsided, they are becoming much more calm, collected and mature in their approach and are able to think over the things that have been discussed," he said at the opening of the Federal Territory (FT) Gerakan Wanita and Youth delegates conference.
Gerakan had been embroiled in a controversy over the remarks made by former Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail in a speech during the run-up to the Permatang Pauh parliamentary by-election.
"Going by the sentiments gathered from views at the grassroots level, at least 60% say it is very difficult to stay in the coalition (BN) because they are being criticised outside," Koh said.
"But we have to go through a more objective and rational analysis of this and we are going thorough that process.
"Of course, the sentiment gathered from people outside is why should you stay in Barisan?, You should come out.
"But they very seldom ask the third question. The first question is always 'Will you support Barisan?', the second is 'Would you want Gerakan to remain in Barisan? and the third is 'When we come out, will you support us versus DAP or versus PKR?. That question is seldom being asked until lately.
"We are now getting answers, which are very realistic answers. We need to take a lot of factors into consideration and not just based on sentiments."
Koh said that while sentiments are important and have to be taken into consideration for the future of the political role of Gerakan in the political arena, "it has to be a combination of the heart and the mind".
"We have to combine sentiment with rational analysis and we have adjusted our thinking after much pondering," he said.
"It is a very trying and challenging time. It is time for a lot of soul-searching and rational objective and analysis, combined with a lot of sentiments, and thus, it cannot be a straightforward simplistic, simple decision.
"We are not ruling out any possibilities and are constantly getting feedback and analysis in addition to monitoring the changes in the country’s political landscape."
Koh said no deadline has been set as the party does not want to be rigid in view of the constant changes happening around it.
He said there are three options for the party, which are to stay in BN, leave BN and join Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), or leave the BN and be independent.
>> On whether he will contest for the presidency in October , Koh announced he would be but it clear he would not remain in office for more than two terms as he wants to elevate young leaders to engineer change and revive the party.
>> On his choice for deputy, he said: "We will eventually let the delegates decide."
>> On Gerakan Federal Territory members hopping over the PKR (see accompanying story), Koh said: "I was just informed of this although I had heard the rumours two days ago that some of our leaders are in talks with them."
He said he was shocked because two weeks ago, some of those who defected had sat in a meeting with him and never indicated any dissatisfaction.
"This episode also shows that PKR seeks publicity and confrontation, and puts up political dramas, as they just had to welcome these members on the same day that the Gerakan FT is holding its delegates conference," Koh said.
>> On the power transition plan in Umno, Koh said Gerakan hopes it will be carried out in a smooth and peaceful manner so as not to upset the social and economic order.
He said by tradition, the change in party leadership in a BN component party is an internal matter, However, he hopes that the BN supreme council will brief the other component parties on what the Umno supreme council has decided so that the transition plan can be understood by other component parties.
He said BN is in dire need of a revamp and re-branding to remain relevant.
"What is important at the end of the day is that this transition benefits the BN and, most of all, the country," he said.
KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 28, 2008): by Maria J. Dass
Although the sentiment among the grassroots for Gerakan to leave Barisan Nasional (BN) is prevalent because of incidents that took place over the last two months, the party is adopting a cautious stand as it needs to examine and ponder over its survival post-BN.
"At least 60% say 'let us be relieved of this burden', which is considered an emotional burden, but we have to go beyond that, we have to go beyond sentiments," the party's acting president, Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, said today.
"Now, after the initial feelings and sentiments because of things that have happened, especially in the last one to two months, have subsided, they are becoming much more calm, collected and mature in their approach and are able to think over the things that have been discussed," he said at the opening of the Federal Territory (FT) Gerakan Wanita and Youth delegates conference.
Gerakan had been embroiled in a controversy over the remarks made by former Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail in a speech during the run-up to the Permatang Pauh parliamentary by-election.
"Going by the sentiments gathered from views at the grassroots level, at least 60% say it is very difficult to stay in the coalition (BN) because they are being criticised outside," Koh said.
"But we have to go through a more objective and rational analysis of this and we are going thorough that process.
"Of course, the sentiment gathered from people outside is why should you stay in Barisan?, You should come out.
"But they very seldom ask the third question. The first question is always 'Will you support Barisan?', the second is 'Would you want Gerakan to remain in Barisan? and the third is 'When we come out, will you support us versus DAP or versus PKR?. That question is seldom being asked until lately.
"We are now getting answers, which are very realistic answers. We need to take a lot of factors into consideration and not just based on sentiments."
Koh said that while sentiments are important and have to be taken into consideration for the future of the political role of Gerakan in the political arena, "it has to be a combination of the heart and the mind".
"We have to combine sentiment with rational analysis and we have adjusted our thinking after much pondering," he said.
"It is a very trying and challenging time. It is time for a lot of soul-searching and rational objective and analysis, combined with a lot of sentiments, and thus, it cannot be a straightforward simplistic, simple decision.
"We are not ruling out any possibilities and are constantly getting feedback and analysis in addition to monitoring the changes in the country’s political landscape."
Koh said no deadline has been set as the party does not want to be rigid in view of the constant changes happening around it.
He said there are three options for the party, which are to stay in BN, leave BN and join Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), or leave the BN and be independent.
>> On whether he will contest for the presidency in October , Koh announced he would be but it clear he would not remain in office for more than two terms as he wants to elevate young leaders to engineer change and revive the party.
>> On his choice for deputy, he said: "We will eventually let the delegates decide."
>> On Gerakan Federal Territory members hopping over the PKR (see accompanying story), Koh said: "I was just informed of this although I had heard the rumours two days ago that some of our leaders are in talks with them."
He said he was shocked because two weeks ago, some of those who defected had sat in a meeting with him and never indicated any dissatisfaction.
"This episode also shows that PKR seeks publicity and confrontation, and puts up political dramas, as they just had to welcome these members on the same day that the Gerakan FT is holding its delegates conference," Koh said.
>> On the power transition plan in Umno, Koh said Gerakan hopes it will be carried out in a smooth and peaceful manner so as not to upset the social and economic order.
He said by tradition, the change in party leadership in a BN component party is an internal matter, However, he hopes that the BN supreme council will brief the other component parties on what the Umno supreme council has decided so that the transition plan can be understood by other component parties.
He said BN is in dire need of a revamp and re-branding to remain relevant.
"What is important at the end of the day is that this transition benefits the BN and, most of all, the country," he said.
‘Engage in peaceful discussion’ - Star
GEORGE TOWN: Sept 29, 2008
Gerakan has condemned the Molotov cocktail assault on the home of Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, saying it was an act of cowardice.
Party acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said there should be discussions in a democratic manner when conflicts arose.
He said anyone disagreeing with Kok’s stand should be brave enough to engage her in a peaceful debate.
“While Gerakan may not agree with the stand or approach of Kok and other opposition leaders on certain issues, we strongly defend their right to freedom of expression,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Gerakan has condemned the Molotov cocktail assault on the home of Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, saying it was an act of cowardice.
Party acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said there should be discussions in a democratic manner when conflicts arose.
He said anyone disagreeing with Kok’s stand should be brave enough to engage her in a peaceful debate.
“While Gerakan may not agree with the stand or approach of Kok and other opposition leaders on certain issues, we strongly defend their right to freedom of expression,” he said in a statement yesterday.
FT Gerakan members defect to PKR - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 29, 2008
More than 20 Federal Territory Gerakan members have defected to Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR).
Former Federal Territory Gerakan information bureau chief Gan Kok Keng, who led the defections yesterday, said at least 300 more members from four divisions would be joining the opposition party soon.
These divisions are the Setiawangsa, Wangsa Maju, Bukit Bintang and Kepong divisions. The 20 members were also from these divisions.
More than 20 Federal Territory Gerakan members have defected to Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR).
Former Federal Territory Gerakan information bureau chief Gan Kok Keng, who led the defections yesterday, said at least 300 more members from four divisions would be joining the opposition party soon.
These divisions are the Setiawangsa, Wangsa Maju, Bukit Bintang and Kepong divisions. The 20 members were also from these divisions.
Dr Koh considering the possibility of party leaving Barisan Nasional - Star
Gerakan mulls quiting Barisan, may join Pakatan
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 29, 2008 By LISA GOH
Leaving the Barisan Nasional and joining Pakatan Rakyat is one of the three options being considered by Gerakan.
Party acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said the two other options were to stay with the ruling coalition or leave and be independent.
“We are not ruling out any possibility (of leaving) at this moment. We have to assess but we are not closing the door.
“Neither are we saying we will definitely leave. It’s something we need to assess but we cannot do it based on sentiments alone,” he told reporters after launching the KL-Federal Territory (FT) state delegates conference here yesterday.
“If you go on sentiments alone, I would say more than 60% (want to leave) but we are taking a lot of factors into consideration. A decision cannot be based just on sentiments.”
He added that party leaders were examining how the political scenario in the country would continue to change and had been getting feedback from the grassroots.
“It’s a very trying time and there is need for a lot of rational, objective analysis. It cannot be a straightforward, simplistic decision,” he said.
In his opening speech, Dr Koh announced that he would be contesting for the party presidency in the October party elections.
“I am offering myself for the post, but I have also set a time-frame for myself, and it is unlikely that I will go beyond two terms.
“I would like to have younger and newer leaders to continue the process of political commitment,” he said.
Asked if he would name his deputy, he replied: “We will let the delegates decide.”
On some 20 FT Gerakan members defecting to Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Dr Koh expressed surprise.
“It was only last week that (former Setiawangsa Gerakan chief) Li Tiam Chai was with me in a meeting and there were no signs that he was not happy.
“We were talking about how to strengthen the party.
“So, I am surprised but I will continue with the veterans,” he said.
On the Umno leadership transition, Dr Koh said he hoped it would be “smooth and peaceful.”
“Even though it is an internal party matter, we are also concerned because the Umno leader becomes the leader of Barisan and the Federal Government,” he said.
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 29, 2008 By LISA GOH
Leaving the Barisan Nasional and joining Pakatan Rakyat is one of the three options being considered by Gerakan.
Party acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said the two other options were to stay with the ruling coalition or leave and be independent.
“We are not ruling out any possibility (of leaving) at this moment. We have to assess but we are not closing the door.
“Neither are we saying we will definitely leave. It’s something we need to assess but we cannot do it based on sentiments alone,” he told reporters after launching the KL-Federal Territory (FT) state delegates conference here yesterday.
“If you go on sentiments alone, I would say more than 60% (want to leave) but we are taking a lot of factors into consideration. A decision cannot be based just on sentiments.”
He added that party leaders were examining how the political scenario in the country would continue to change and had been getting feedback from the grassroots.
“It’s a very trying time and there is need for a lot of rational, objective analysis. It cannot be a straightforward, simplistic decision,” he said.
In his opening speech, Dr Koh announced that he would be contesting for the party presidency in the October party elections.
“I am offering myself for the post, but I have also set a time-frame for myself, and it is unlikely that I will go beyond two terms.
“I would like to have younger and newer leaders to continue the process of political commitment,” he said.
Asked if he would name his deputy, he replied: “We will let the delegates decide.”
On some 20 FT Gerakan members defecting to Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), Dr Koh expressed surprise.
“It was only last week that (former Setiawangsa Gerakan chief) Li Tiam Chai was with me in a meeting and there were no signs that he was not happy.
“We were talking about how to strengthen the party.
“So, I am surprised but I will continue with the veterans,” he said.
On the Umno leadership transition, Dr Koh said he hoped it would be “smooth and peaceful.”
“Even though it is an internal party matter, we are also concerned because the Umno leader becomes the leader of Barisan and the Federal Government,” he said.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Raja Petra to be detained 2yrs under ISA - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 23, 2008
Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin was served with an order last night that would see him detained in Kamunting for two years under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
The detention order was signed by Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar last night.
He will be held without trial under Section 8 of the ISA, reporters were told by his lawyers, who were at the High Court hear to argue their habeas corpus application on Tuesday.
He was detained under the ISA on Sept 12. Two others detained that day, Seputeh MP Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Choon Heng, have since been released.
Raja Petra had filed a notice of motion through Messrs Mathews Hun Kandiah last Tuesday citing the grounds that his detention was unlawful and contravened the Federal Constitution.
Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin was served with an order last night that would see him detained in Kamunting for two years under the Internal Security Act (ISA).The detention order was signed by Home Minister Syed Hamid Albar last night.
He will be held without trial under Section 8 of the ISA, reporters were told by his lawyers, who were at the High Court hear to argue their habeas corpus application on Tuesday.
He was detained under the ISA on Sept 12. Two others detained that day, Seputeh MP Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Choon Heng, have since been released.
Raja Petra had filed a notice of motion through Messrs Mathews Hun Kandiah last Tuesday citing the grounds that his detention was unlawful and contravened the Federal Constitution.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Pak Lah mesti berundur kalau tak mahu dimalukan
Posted by Kudakepang
KUALA LUMPUR: 20 Sept 2008
Majlis Tertinggi UMNO telah menasihati Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi bersara secara sukarela, segera dan terhormat. Jika tidak, kemungkinan besar Abdullah akan disingkirkan oleh majoriti bahagian UMNO yang memulakan perwakilan bahagian masing-masing pada 10 Oktober 2008.
Lantaran itu, Abdullah dijangka mengumumkan tarikh persaraannya daripada siasah dan kerajaan dalam tempoh terdekat ini demi agama, bangsa dan tanahair, selewat-lewatnya pada 9 Oktober 2008.
Nasihat di atas telah disampaikan oleh Majlis Tertinggi UMNO kepada Abdullah dalam mesyuaratnya pada 18 September 2008.
Ini kerana persidangan perwakilan UMNO bahagian kali ini akan menamakan calon-calon pucuk pimpinan tertinggi parti yang akan dipertandingkan pada Disember 2008.
Jika Abdullah enggan berundur, beliau dijangka menghadapi risiko tidak memperolehi kuota secukupnya untuk mempertahankan kerusi Presiden UMNO yang disandangnya ketika ini.
Ambil Risiko
Sekelompok orang Abdullah mungkin akan mendesak Abdullah untuk bertahan, mengambil risiko dan tidak bersara. Kelompok ini dikatakan rela menabur wang berjuta-juta ringgit nilainya semata-mata untuk mempertahankan kedudukan Abdullah sebagai Perdana Menteri dan Presiden UMNO.
Dalam konteks ini, seorang Ahli Majlis Tertinggi UMNO memberitahu blog ini, mainan politik wang ini tidak mungkin berlaku. Ini kerana kini sudah wujud sebuah badan pemantau bebas yang bergerak secara rahsia untuk menggagalkan kemungkinan berkenaan.
Katanya, pelbagai projek di beberapa koridor pembangunan yang ditawarkan oleh sesetengah pihak kepada segolongan ketua-ketua bahagian sebelum ini pun sudah tidak lagi diyakini oleh pihak terbabit bila ekonomi dunia mula meredum dan Kementerian Kewangan pula diserahkan kepada Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
Seorang lagi Ahli Majlis Tertinggi pula menyatakan kepada blog ini bahawa nasihat yang disampaikan kepada Abdullah pada 18 September 2008 adalah satu ledakan gelombang perubahan yang serius. Gelombang ini akan meledak jadi tsunami siasah jika Abdullah mengengkari nasihat berkenaan.
Maka, katanya, terserahlah kepada Abdullah untuk mengartikulasikan nasihat Majlis Tertinggi. Jika Abdullah mahu mengambil risiko, Abdullah dijangka terkapai-kapai seorang diri dan akhirnya menjadi mangsa kepada tsunami siasah yang meledak daripada peringkat bahagian.
Abdullah Sedar
Ahli Majlis Tertinggi ini mengesahkan posting oleh beberapa bloggers tempatan yang mengatakan mesyuarat Majlis Tertinggi UMNO pada 18 September 2008 adalah hangat dan decisive. Beliau juga mengakui bahawa sebilangan besar anggota kanan Majlis Tertinggi UMNO rata-rata menasihati Abdullah bersara secara terhormat dan dengan segera.
Sebab itulah agaknya Abdullah dipetik oleh Bernama 18 September 2008, sebagai berkata bahawa “sebarang keputusan berkaitan kedudukannya sebagai Presiden UMNO dan juga peralihan kuasa akan dibuat oleh beliau sendiri.”
Abdullah juga dipetik sebagai berkata bahawa “sebarang perubahan kepada pelan peralihan kuasa itu akan beliau bincangkan dengan timbalannya Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.”
Mengenai peralihan kuasa, Abdullah juga berkata: “Saya tidak beri penjelasan semula. Saya hanya kata yang saya sedar, saya sentiasa mendengar, saya sedang memberi perhatian kepada apa yang berlaku mengenai situasi sekarang ini dalam parti. Apa-apa juga keputusan yang akan saya buat mengenai perkara ini akan saya bincang dulu dengan Datuk Seri Najib, kemudian keputusan itu akan dibawa untuk makluman Majlis Tertinggi.”
Moga-moga Abdullah yang kini “sedar, sentiasa mendengar dan sedang memberi perhatian kepada apa yang berlaku mengenai situasi sekarang ini dalam parti” seperti ditegaskan di atas akan menghormati nasihat Majlis Tertinggi UMNO yang mewakili aspirasi majoriti warga UMNO akar umbi di seluruh negara mutakhir ini. Mudah-mudahan di hari baik bulan baik ini Abdullah sanggup berkorban demi kepentingan agama, bangsa dan tanahair dengan mengumumkan persaraannya daripada siasah dan kerajaan sebelum 10 Oktober 2008.
KUALA LUMPUR: 20 Sept 2008
Majlis Tertinggi UMNO telah menasihati Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi bersara secara sukarela, segera dan terhormat. Jika tidak, kemungkinan besar Abdullah akan disingkirkan oleh majoriti bahagian UMNO yang memulakan perwakilan bahagian masing-masing pada 10 Oktober 2008.
Lantaran itu, Abdullah dijangka mengumumkan tarikh persaraannya daripada siasah dan kerajaan dalam tempoh terdekat ini demi agama, bangsa dan tanahair, selewat-lewatnya pada 9 Oktober 2008.
Nasihat di atas telah disampaikan oleh Majlis Tertinggi UMNO kepada Abdullah dalam mesyuaratnya pada 18 September 2008.
Ini kerana persidangan perwakilan UMNO bahagian kali ini akan menamakan calon-calon pucuk pimpinan tertinggi parti yang akan dipertandingkan pada Disember 2008.
Jika Abdullah enggan berundur, beliau dijangka menghadapi risiko tidak memperolehi kuota secukupnya untuk mempertahankan kerusi Presiden UMNO yang disandangnya ketika ini.
Ambil Risiko
Sekelompok orang Abdullah mungkin akan mendesak Abdullah untuk bertahan, mengambil risiko dan tidak bersara. Kelompok ini dikatakan rela menabur wang berjuta-juta ringgit nilainya semata-mata untuk mempertahankan kedudukan Abdullah sebagai Perdana Menteri dan Presiden UMNO.
Dalam konteks ini, seorang Ahli Majlis Tertinggi UMNO memberitahu blog ini, mainan politik wang ini tidak mungkin berlaku. Ini kerana kini sudah wujud sebuah badan pemantau bebas yang bergerak secara rahsia untuk menggagalkan kemungkinan berkenaan.
Katanya, pelbagai projek di beberapa koridor pembangunan yang ditawarkan oleh sesetengah pihak kepada segolongan ketua-ketua bahagian sebelum ini pun sudah tidak lagi diyakini oleh pihak terbabit bila ekonomi dunia mula meredum dan Kementerian Kewangan pula diserahkan kepada Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.
Seorang lagi Ahli Majlis Tertinggi pula menyatakan kepada blog ini bahawa nasihat yang disampaikan kepada Abdullah pada 18 September 2008 adalah satu ledakan gelombang perubahan yang serius. Gelombang ini akan meledak jadi tsunami siasah jika Abdullah mengengkari nasihat berkenaan.
Maka, katanya, terserahlah kepada Abdullah untuk mengartikulasikan nasihat Majlis Tertinggi. Jika Abdullah mahu mengambil risiko, Abdullah dijangka terkapai-kapai seorang diri dan akhirnya menjadi mangsa kepada tsunami siasah yang meledak daripada peringkat bahagian.
Abdullah Sedar
Ahli Majlis Tertinggi ini mengesahkan posting oleh beberapa bloggers tempatan yang mengatakan mesyuarat Majlis Tertinggi UMNO pada 18 September 2008 adalah hangat dan decisive. Beliau juga mengakui bahawa sebilangan besar anggota kanan Majlis Tertinggi UMNO rata-rata menasihati Abdullah bersara secara terhormat dan dengan segera.
Sebab itulah agaknya Abdullah dipetik oleh Bernama 18 September 2008, sebagai berkata bahawa “sebarang keputusan berkaitan kedudukannya sebagai Presiden UMNO dan juga peralihan kuasa akan dibuat oleh beliau sendiri.”
Abdullah juga dipetik sebagai berkata bahawa “sebarang perubahan kepada pelan peralihan kuasa itu akan beliau bincangkan dengan timbalannya Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.”
Mengenai peralihan kuasa, Abdullah juga berkata: “Saya tidak beri penjelasan semula. Saya hanya kata yang saya sedar, saya sentiasa mendengar, saya sedang memberi perhatian kepada apa yang berlaku mengenai situasi sekarang ini dalam parti. Apa-apa juga keputusan yang akan saya buat mengenai perkara ini akan saya bincang dulu dengan Datuk Seri Najib, kemudian keputusan itu akan dibawa untuk makluman Majlis Tertinggi.”
Moga-moga Abdullah yang kini “sedar, sentiasa mendengar dan sedang memberi perhatian kepada apa yang berlaku mengenai situasi sekarang ini dalam parti” seperti ditegaskan di atas akan menghormati nasihat Majlis Tertinggi UMNO yang mewakili aspirasi majoriti warga UMNO akar umbi di seluruh negara mutakhir ini. Mudah-mudahan di hari baik bulan baik ini Abdullah sanggup berkorban demi kepentingan agama, bangsa dan tanahair dengan mengumumkan persaraannya daripada siasah dan kerajaan sebelum 10 Oktober 2008.
Wan Azizah: More Barisan MPs keen to cross over - Star
BUTTERWORTH: Sept 22, 2008
PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said that more Barisan Nasional Members of Parliament were keen to cross over to the Pakatan Rakyat.
She said that her husband and Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim were holding discussions with them in Kuala Lumpur.
“Anwar is making extra effort to meet more MPs as some were sent to Taiwan and Hong Kong,” she said.
She said this when asked about Anwar’s absence from his Permatang Pauh constituency yesterday where he was scheduled to give Hari Raya aid.
She also said an official letter had not been sent to the Yang DiPertuan Agong but that would be the next course of action.
In Kuala Lumpur, PKR strategist Saifuddin Nasution said Pakatan Rakyat had started its “countdown” for the takeover and things were moving according to plan.
He said the opposition pact had a “complete and comprehensive checklist” in place, taking in every possible scenario for the takeover.
This, he said, included strategies should Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi step down as Prime Minister and Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak take over. He said a change of prime minister would not affect their plans.
“Our timeline is by the hour. Putrajaya is within reach,” he said.
Anwar had set Sept 16 as the date to take over the Government but this did not happen and Barisan leaders said it was a big bluff.
Saifuddin said a detailed and comprehensive planning was necessary because the takeover of Government was a process that had never been done before in Malaysia.
He said the plan looked at aspects such as the powers of the Yang DiPertuan Agong and prime minister, and the possibility of an emergency or snap elections by the Government to prevent a takeover.
DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang said Abdullah should reconsider Anwar’s call to hold an emergency Parliament meeting to table a no-confidence motion against him.
PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said that more Barisan Nasional Members of Parliament were keen to cross over to the Pakatan Rakyat.
She said that her husband and Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim were holding discussions with them in Kuala Lumpur.
“Anwar is making extra effort to meet more MPs as some were sent to Taiwan and Hong Kong,” she said.
She said this when asked about Anwar’s absence from his Permatang Pauh constituency yesterday where he was scheduled to give Hari Raya aid.
She also said an official letter had not been sent to the Yang DiPertuan Agong but that would be the next course of action.
In Kuala Lumpur, PKR strategist Saifuddin Nasution said Pakatan Rakyat had started its “countdown” for the takeover and things were moving according to plan.
He said the opposition pact had a “complete and comprehensive checklist” in place, taking in every possible scenario for the takeover.
This, he said, included strategies should Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi step down as Prime Minister and Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak take over. He said a change of prime minister would not affect their plans.
“Our timeline is by the hour. Putrajaya is within reach,” he said.
Anwar had set Sept 16 as the date to take over the Government but this did not happen and Barisan leaders said it was a big bluff.
Saifuddin said a detailed and comprehensive planning was necessary because the takeover of Government was a process that had never been done before in Malaysia.
He said the plan looked at aspects such as the powers of the Yang DiPertuan Agong and prime minister, and the possibility of an emergency or snap elections by the Government to prevent a takeover.
DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang said Abdullah should reconsider Anwar’s call to hold an emergency Parliament meeting to table a no-confidence motion against him.
No-confidence vote not the only way - Sun
Sept 22, 2008 by Maria J. Dass
THE premise that Parliament has to be called for a vote of no-confidence against the prime minister (PM) to be passed is too simplistic, said advocate and solicitor Tommy Thomas. He was responding to an interview published on Thursday in theSun with constitutional law expert Prof Dr Shad Saleem Faruqi who said that under the Constitution [Article 43(4)], it is Parliament, and not the Agong, which must dismiss the PM.
Article 43(4) of the Constitution reads: If the PM ceases to command the confidence of the majority of the members of the House of Representatives, then, unless at his request the Yang di-Pertuan Agong dissolves Parliament, the prime minister shall tender the resignation of the cabinet.
“However, for Shad’s interpretation to be correct, Article 43(4) ought to read like this: If the Prime Minister is defeated on a motion of confidence in the House of Representatives, then…” Thomas said.
If Shad’s interpretation is right, it was limited to only one occasion and one fact pattern – that the matter needs to be brought to the Dewan Rakyat, he said, adding that the broad scope of the Constitution allowed for other methods to be applied.
“I accept the method Shad mentioned as the traditional method and the first method of preference; where I am disagreeing is that it is not the only method,” he said in an interview last Friday.
He said Article 43(4) represented the Reid Commission report draft and maintained its original form and essentially codified the British Constitutional principle that awards the Agong the exact same powers as the British monarch has. He said nearly all Commonwealth countries had persons who were in similar positions to the British monarch and had the same powers. India, being a republic, has a president while Australia and New Zealand have governors-general to represent the Queen.
So what are the other methods instead of a no-confidence vote?
Thomas: To answer this we have to first look at the fact that in almost every Commonwealth nation, there is a supreme head, a constitutional monarch. In Malaysia, it is the Agong as stipulated in Article 32(1) of the Federal Constitution. This supreme head has to be above politics and serve the role of stabilising the nation, especially in a time of crisis like this.
Article 43(2)(a), which states that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong shall first appoint PM to preside over the cabinet a member of the House of Representative who in his judgment is likely to command the confidence of the majority of the members of that House, leaves the discretion of appointing the PM to the Agong.
The King has to take the advice of the PM 99.999% of the time according to Article 40(1); however the Agong may act in his discretion to appoint the PM and to withhold the consent to a request for the dissolution of Parliament according to Article 40(2).
In some situations he doesn’t take the PM’s advice because the advice may be self-serving. In the case where a PM does not enjoy the support of the majority, his self-serving advice may be to “keep me, don’t sack me”.
So in these situations and in times of trouble, the King should look above the advice and speak up in the interest of the nation.
As a constitutional monarch, the Agong cannot remove the PM unless he is convinced that the PM has lost the confidence of the majority of Dewan Rakyat members as stipulated in Article 43(4) and 40(3).
If the events in 43(4) occur, then the PM can be dismissed if he doesn’t resign.
The provisions in the Constitution give the King a very broad discretion, but he cannot act as a dictator as there are restraints to his absolute discretion. For example, he cannot appoint you or me to be PM because of the simple reason that we are not members of the lower house. That tells you straight away that the choice is limited to 222 people.
How does the King exercise his discretion if there is no vote of no-confidence?
A written and signed declaration signed by the majority members of the lower house, where if a member/members of Parliament sees him and produce documents to show that more than the majority needed have signed a declaration of no confidence.
If the King is satisfied with that and genuineness of the signatures, then he can accept that – the method of ascertaining the losing of confidence.
Now this is where I must comment on Shad’s statement where he cited the Stephen Kalong Ningkan case (1966) where the High Court in Kuching refused to accept this method.
What Shad failed to mention was a Privy Council case before (Nigerian case: Adegbenro vs Akintola in 1963) and a Malaysian case after which went the other way.
In the Nigerian case, the governor of Nigeria received such a letter and based on this he sacked the Chief Minister (CM) but the CM said “there was no vote against me so I have not been sacked”.
The Privy Council ruled that it was a genuine sacking and decided that the governor can do what he wanted because of his wide discretion.
In 1966 Justice Harley in Kuching in his judgment on the Stephen Kalong Ningkan case said he won’t follow the Nigerian case because Nigeria is different from Sarawak – which in my view is a very simplistic view.
Then 30 years later, we had this case involving Datuk Amir Kahar Mustapha vs Tun Mohd Said Keruak – which involves former chief minister of Sabah Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan when there were several defections from the party after the 1994 general election and Kitingan lost his position. The appointment of the new governor was later challenged. The facts are very similar and the issue raised was whether a signed letter cum document could be accepted. Justice Kadir Sulaiman followed the Privy Council method and said of course.
What is more interesting is the winning lawyer whose arguments were accepted by Kadir Sulaiman was none other than present Attorney-General Tan Sri Gani Patail, who was arguing for the state government of Sabah.
The disadvantage of this method is the authenticity of the signature, thus the whole idea is proof that the King is acting reasonably and responsibly, not arbitrarily. Therefore, the King has to make his own investigations and satisfy himself and make known the steps which he took in making the decision for the whole country. To do this the King should summon them, whether he does this or they voluntarily go then this is the best evidence, best proof. If any constitutional monarch did this, then they can be absolutely above criticism.
The King’s say in removing the PM
Scenario One:
A vote in the lower house takes place and motion is carried. Then the outgoing PM must inform the monarch that he has lost the confidence of the house. The PM then has a prerogative to ask for the dissolution of Parliament so that fresh elections can be held for him to test his mandate with the people.
The King then has to use his discretion at this stage. If he accepts, Parliament will be dissolved and the PM’s government will be appointed as a caretaker government. But if the King says no to dissolve Parliament, the PM must tender his resignation to cabinet. If he refuses to resign, it is implied that the King can sack him.
Scenario Two:
The King does not rely on a motion in the house but upon being satisfied that the PM no longer enjoys the support of the majority in the house, tells the PM to resign and replaces him with a candidate which he sees fit. If the PM refuses, it is implied in the Constitution that he can be sacked.
What happens if a motion of no confidence is not granted by the Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat?
This is unconstitutional. But this is precisely why scholars are arguing if this is the only method or if there are other ways of doing this. Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is playing a very careful game where he is exhausting the first and preferred method of tabling a no confidence vote against the PM first. Two such motions have been tabled and disallowed by the Speaker so far.
What happens if Anwar is detained under the Internal Security Act?
Even if Anwar is detained under the Internal Security Act, the King can ask for him to be released to meet him – if he sees him as a person qualified as prime ministerial candidate
THE premise that Parliament has to be called for a vote of no-confidence against the prime minister (PM) to be passed is too simplistic, said advocate and solicitor Tommy Thomas. He was responding to an interview published on Thursday in theSun with constitutional law expert Prof Dr Shad Saleem Faruqi who said that under the Constitution [Article 43(4)], it is Parliament, and not the Agong, which must dismiss the PM.
Article 43(4) of the Constitution reads: If the PM ceases to command the confidence of the majority of the members of the House of Representatives, then, unless at his request the Yang di-Pertuan Agong dissolves Parliament, the prime minister shall tender the resignation of the cabinet.
“However, for Shad’s interpretation to be correct, Article 43(4) ought to read like this: If the Prime Minister is defeated on a motion of confidence in the House of Representatives, then…” Thomas said.
If Shad’s interpretation is right, it was limited to only one occasion and one fact pattern – that the matter needs to be brought to the Dewan Rakyat, he said, adding that the broad scope of the Constitution allowed for other methods to be applied.
“I accept the method Shad mentioned as the traditional method and the first method of preference; where I am disagreeing is that it is not the only method,” he said in an interview last Friday.
He said Article 43(4) represented the Reid Commission report draft and maintained its original form and essentially codified the British Constitutional principle that awards the Agong the exact same powers as the British monarch has. He said nearly all Commonwealth countries had persons who were in similar positions to the British monarch and had the same powers. India, being a republic, has a president while Australia and New Zealand have governors-general to represent the Queen.
So what are the other methods instead of a no-confidence vote?
Thomas: To answer this we have to first look at the fact that in almost every Commonwealth nation, there is a supreme head, a constitutional monarch. In Malaysia, it is the Agong as stipulated in Article 32(1) of the Federal Constitution. This supreme head has to be above politics and serve the role of stabilising the nation, especially in a time of crisis like this.
Article 43(2)(a), which states that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong shall first appoint PM to preside over the cabinet a member of the House of Representative who in his judgment is likely to command the confidence of the majority of the members of that House, leaves the discretion of appointing the PM to the Agong.
The King has to take the advice of the PM 99.999% of the time according to Article 40(1); however the Agong may act in his discretion to appoint the PM and to withhold the consent to a request for the dissolution of Parliament according to Article 40(2).
In some situations he doesn’t take the PM’s advice because the advice may be self-serving. In the case where a PM does not enjoy the support of the majority, his self-serving advice may be to “keep me, don’t sack me”.
So in these situations and in times of trouble, the King should look above the advice and speak up in the interest of the nation.
As a constitutional monarch, the Agong cannot remove the PM unless he is convinced that the PM has lost the confidence of the majority of Dewan Rakyat members as stipulated in Article 43(4) and 40(3).
If the events in 43(4) occur, then the PM can be dismissed if he doesn’t resign.
The provisions in the Constitution give the King a very broad discretion, but he cannot act as a dictator as there are restraints to his absolute discretion. For example, he cannot appoint you or me to be PM because of the simple reason that we are not members of the lower house. That tells you straight away that the choice is limited to 222 people.
How does the King exercise his discretion if there is no vote of no-confidence?
A written and signed declaration signed by the majority members of the lower house, where if a member/members of Parliament sees him and produce documents to show that more than the majority needed have signed a declaration of no confidence.
If the King is satisfied with that and genuineness of the signatures, then he can accept that – the method of ascertaining the losing of confidence.
Now this is where I must comment on Shad’s statement where he cited the Stephen Kalong Ningkan case (1966) where the High Court in Kuching refused to accept this method.
What Shad failed to mention was a Privy Council case before (Nigerian case: Adegbenro vs Akintola in 1963) and a Malaysian case after which went the other way.
In the Nigerian case, the governor of Nigeria received such a letter and based on this he sacked the Chief Minister (CM) but the CM said “there was no vote against me so I have not been sacked”.
The Privy Council ruled that it was a genuine sacking and decided that the governor can do what he wanted because of his wide discretion.
In 1966 Justice Harley in Kuching in his judgment on the Stephen Kalong Ningkan case said he won’t follow the Nigerian case because Nigeria is different from Sarawak – which in my view is a very simplistic view.
Then 30 years later, we had this case involving Datuk Amir Kahar Mustapha vs Tun Mohd Said Keruak – which involves former chief minister of Sabah Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan when there were several defections from the party after the 1994 general election and Kitingan lost his position. The appointment of the new governor was later challenged. The facts are very similar and the issue raised was whether a signed letter cum document could be accepted. Justice Kadir Sulaiman followed the Privy Council method and said of course.
What is more interesting is the winning lawyer whose arguments were accepted by Kadir Sulaiman was none other than present Attorney-General Tan Sri Gani Patail, who was arguing for the state government of Sabah.
The disadvantage of this method is the authenticity of the signature, thus the whole idea is proof that the King is acting reasonably and responsibly, not arbitrarily. Therefore, the King has to make his own investigations and satisfy himself and make known the steps which he took in making the decision for the whole country. To do this the King should summon them, whether he does this or they voluntarily go then this is the best evidence, best proof. If any constitutional monarch did this, then they can be absolutely above criticism.
The King’s say in removing the PM
Scenario One:
A vote in the lower house takes place and motion is carried. Then the outgoing PM must inform the monarch that he has lost the confidence of the house. The PM then has a prerogative to ask for the dissolution of Parliament so that fresh elections can be held for him to test his mandate with the people.
The King then has to use his discretion at this stage. If he accepts, Parliament will be dissolved and the PM’s government will be appointed as a caretaker government. But if the King says no to dissolve Parliament, the PM must tender his resignation to cabinet. If he refuses to resign, it is implied that the King can sack him.
Scenario Two:
The King does not rely on a motion in the house but upon being satisfied that the PM no longer enjoys the support of the majority in the house, tells the PM to resign and replaces him with a candidate which he sees fit. If the PM refuses, it is implied in the Constitution that he can be sacked.
What happens if a motion of no confidence is not granted by the Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat?
This is unconstitutional. But this is precisely why scholars are arguing if this is the only method or if there are other ways of doing this. Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is playing a very careful game where he is exhausting the first and preferred method of tabling a no confidence vote against the PM first. Two such motions have been tabled and disallowed by the Speaker so far.
What happens if Anwar is detained under the Internal Security Act?
Even if Anwar is detained under the Internal Security Act, the King can ask for him to be released to meet him – if he sees him as a person qualified as prime ministerial candidate
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Pakatan's next stop: Istana Negara - Malaysiakini
Athi Veeranggan | Sep 20, 08 12:58pm
Pakatan Rakyat’s relentless pursuit to take control of the central government from Barisan Nasional could well take the opposition coalition to Istana Negara.
MCPX
Pakatan had already sought an audience with the constitutional monarch to stake its claim on the federal government by sending an official letter to the king a few days ago, PAS Parit Buntar MP Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa told an anti-ISA forum in Penang last night.
If the king grants an audience, which Pakatan leaders hope will happen soon, Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim would then produce the names of parliamentarians backing him to convince the monarch that a change in Putrajaya was inevitable.
More news at: www.malaysiakini.com
Pakatan Rakyat’s relentless pursuit to take control of the central government from Barisan Nasional could well take the opposition coalition to Istana Negara.
MCPX
Pakatan had already sought an audience with the constitutional monarch to stake its claim on the federal government by sending an official letter to the king a few days ago, PAS Parit Buntar MP Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa told an anti-ISA forum in Penang last night.
If the king grants an audience, which Pakatan leaders hope will happen soon, Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim would then produce the names of parliamentarians backing him to convince the monarch that a change in Putrajaya was inevitable.
More news at: www.malaysiakini.com
Signature movement against ISA - Star
GEORGE TOWN: Sept 20, 2008 By WINNIE YEOH
About 200 people signed up to protest the Internal Security Act (ISA) during a signature campaign at the Taman Free School market here.
Jelutong Member of Parliament Jeff Ooi and Datuk Keramat assemblyman Jagdeep Singh Deo spoke at the market, urging the people to support the campaign.
Jagdeep Singh said his party the DAP was against the arrest of Sin Chew Daily senior reporter Tan Hoon Cheng, Seputeh MP Teresa Kok and Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin under the ISA.
Tan was released after 18 hours and Kok afetr seven days in detention.
Ooi said the original use of the ISA was to detain extremists, not civilians.
“The country should be progressing and not regressing with the use of the ISA,” he said.
He also said although Tan and Kok have been released, Raja Petra and the five Hindraf leaders were still under detention, adding that “our ultimate goal is to abolish the Act.”
About 200 people signed up to protest the Internal Security Act (ISA) during a signature campaign at the Taman Free School market here.
Jelutong Member of Parliament Jeff Ooi and Datuk Keramat assemblyman Jagdeep Singh Deo spoke at the market, urging the people to support the campaign.
Jagdeep Singh said his party the DAP was against the arrest of Sin Chew Daily senior reporter Tan Hoon Cheng, Seputeh MP Teresa Kok and Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin under the ISA.
Tan was released after 18 hours and Kok afetr seven days in detention.
Ooi said the original use of the ISA was to detain extremists, not civilians.
“The country should be progressing and not regressing with the use of the ISA,” he said.
He also said although Tan and Kok have been released, Raja Petra and the five Hindraf leaders were still under detention, adding that “our ultimate goal is to abolish the Act.”
Bar Council: Abolish ISA, free all detainees - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 20, 2008 By FLORENCE A. SAMY
The Malaysian Bar has unanimously passed a resolution calling for the abolition of the Internal Security Act (ISA) and the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees, including Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin and the “Hindraf Five.”
Its president Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan said the Malaysian Bar also strongly condemned the issuance of the three show-cause letters to Sin Chew Daily, theSun and Suara Keadilan and said they should be immediately withdrawn.
The resolution would be handed to the Prime Minister on Monday, she told reporters on Saturday after a closed-door extraordinary general meeting (EGM).
The six-point resolution was passed at the EGM that was attended by more than 730 members. It was also supported by four past presidents.
Ambiga said the Malaysian Bar also strongly condemned the Sept 12 arrests of Raja Petra, Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng and Seputeh MP Teresa Kok.
Tan was released after 18 hours and Kok after seven days in detention.
“Raja Petra and the other detainees should be released. They should be charged in court if they (are suspected of being) guilty of any offence.
“We unanimously and strongly call on the Government to immediately repeal the ISA and all other laws that allow for the detention of persons without trial, such as the Emergency (Public Order and Prevention of Crime) Ordinance 1969 and the Dangerous Drugs (Special Preventive Measures) Act 1985,” she said.
The Government, the resolution stated, should uphold its pledges to the United Nations Human Rights Council to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms and to promote a free media, including in cyberspace, and to uphold the rule of law.
At the EGM, Kok, S. Pushpa, the wife of detained Hindraf (Hindu Rights Action Force) lawyer M. Manoharan and a woman known as Laila whose husband had been detained for more than six years under ISA, shared their experiences with those present.
“We are happy that Kok has been released but she should not have been detained in the first place.
“We are deeply troubled by what they shared and by the abuse of ISA which can be termed as a state of terrorism. Family lives have been destroyed and children are affected,” Ambiga added.
Former president Sulaiman Abdullah was quoted by national news agency Bernama as saying that the Government should take into consideration the challenges and trauma faced by family members of these detainees.
Some of their loved ones had been away for more than six years, he said.
“It’s about time the Government repeals ISA since it can be abused against those opposing the Government,” he said, according to Bernama.
Another ex-president, Kuthubul Zaman Bukhari, said this was not the first time that the Malaysian Bar called for the ISA to be repealed and added the law was no longer relevant to contemporary society.
The Malaysian Bar has unanimously passed a resolution calling for the abolition of the Internal Security Act (ISA) and the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees, including Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin and the “Hindraf Five.”
Its president Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan said the Malaysian Bar also strongly condemned the issuance of the three show-cause letters to Sin Chew Daily, theSun and Suara Keadilan and said they should be immediately withdrawn.
The resolution would be handed to the Prime Minister on Monday, she told reporters on Saturday after a closed-door extraordinary general meeting (EGM).
The six-point resolution was passed at the EGM that was attended by more than 730 members. It was also supported by four past presidents.
Ambiga said the Malaysian Bar also strongly condemned the Sept 12 arrests of Raja Petra, Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng and Seputeh MP Teresa Kok.
Tan was released after 18 hours and Kok after seven days in detention.
“Raja Petra and the other detainees should be released. They should be charged in court if they (are suspected of being) guilty of any offence.
“We unanimously and strongly call on the Government to immediately repeal the ISA and all other laws that allow for the detention of persons without trial, such as the Emergency (Public Order and Prevention of Crime) Ordinance 1969 and the Dangerous Drugs (Special Preventive Measures) Act 1985,” she said.
The Government, the resolution stated, should uphold its pledges to the United Nations Human Rights Council to promote and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms and to promote a free media, including in cyberspace, and to uphold the rule of law.
At the EGM, Kok, S. Pushpa, the wife of detained Hindraf (Hindu Rights Action Force) lawyer M. Manoharan and a woman known as Laila whose husband had been detained for more than six years under ISA, shared their experiences with those present.
“We are happy that Kok has been released but she should not have been detained in the first place.
“We are deeply troubled by what they shared and by the abuse of ISA which can be termed as a state of terrorism. Family lives have been destroyed and children are affected,” Ambiga added.
Former president Sulaiman Abdullah was quoted by national news agency Bernama as saying that the Government should take into consideration the challenges and trauma faced by family members of these detainees.
Some of their loved ones had been away for more than six years, he said.
“It’s about time the Government repeals ISA since it can be abused against those opposing the Government,” he said, according to Bernama.
Another ex-president, Kuthubul Zaman Bukhari, said this was not the first time that the Malaysian Bar called for the ISA to be repealed and added the law was no longer relevant to contemporary society.
Blogger 'Sheih Kickdefella’ is free - Star
KOTA BARU: Sept 20, 2008
Blogger Syed Azidi Syed Aziz - better known as Sheih Kickdefella - was released from custody at about 4.30pm on Saturday.
Syed Azidi, 38, an employee of Kelantan Mentri Besar Incorporated, was detained on Wednesday for posting alleged seditious statements on his blogsite.
It is believed that the investigations revolved around his posting calling for people to fly the national flag upside down as a sign that the nation was “in distress.”
Syed Azidi took up the state government’s offer to develop its Internet media production some years ago, having been a film director before.
He is regarded as among the pioneers of the Malaysian blogging scene.
Upon his release, he immediately posted at his blog with a message:
Hi folks, sorry for all the unreleased messages and comments. As you know, I have been away on holiday in Lokap Balai Polis Kota Bharu and Lokap Dang Wangi. I tried to check in at Pudu Prison but was turned away because not enough qualification.
I wished to thank all for the supports and prayers.
The police has treated me well and most of the time, beyond the call of duty. I made lots of friends too.
A PC is arrange for me at 5.30pm today for me to bare all. Hehehe if any.
Blogger Syed Azidi Syed Aziz - better known as Sheih Kickdefella - was released from custody at about 4.30pm on Saturday.
Syed Azidi, 38, an employee of Kelantan Mentri Besar Incorporated, was detained on Wednesday for posting alleged seditious statements on his blogsite.
It is believed that the investigations revolved around his posting calling for people to fly the national flag upside down as a sign that the nation was “in distress.”
Syed Azidi took up the state government’s offer to develop its Internet media production some years ago, having been a film director before.
He is regarded as among the pioneers of the Malaysian blogging scene.
Upon his release, he immediately posted at his blog with a message:
Hi folks, sorry for all the unreleased messages and comments. As you know, I have been away on holiday in Lokap Balai Polis Kota Bharu and Lokap Dang Wangi. I tried to check in at Pudu Prison but was turned away because not enough qualification.
I wished to thank all for the supports and prayers.
The police has treated me well and most of the time, beyond the call of duty. I made lots of friends too.
A PC is arrange for me at 5.30pm today for me to bare all. Hehehe if any.
PKR challenges Tiong to lodge ACA report - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 20, 2008 By YUEN MEIKENG
PKR vice-president R. Sivarasa challenged Barisan Backbenchers Club chairman Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing to report to the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) if he believed Pakatan Rakyat offered bribes to Barisan Nasional MPs to jump ship.
“We invite Tiong to lodge a report. Let’s see what the investigation shows,” Sivarasa said.
He also welcomed any Barisan MP alleging that Pakatan was giving out bribes to report to the ACA as the party would also like to find out who was offering the money.
“Pakatan has a firm principle and there is no way we will offer any MP money to cross over,” he said, calling Tiong’s statement “not true.”
In response to Tiong’s allegation that the Barian MPs were also offered Cabinet positions, Sivarasa said negotiating posts was a normal procedure in any political framework.
“Even when we negotiated to join each other (to form Pakatan), we also discussed who would head certain positions in the party.
“There is nothing wrong or immoral about it,” he told reporters at a press conference here on Saturday.
PKR vice-president R. Sivarasa challenged Barisan Backbenchers Club chairman Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing to report to the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) if he believed Pakatan Rakyat offered bribes to Barisan Nasional MPs to jump ship.
“We invite Tiong to lodge a report. Let’s see what the investigation shows,” Sivarasa said.
He also welcomed any Barisan MP alleging that Pakatan was giving out bribes to report to the ACA as the party would also like to find out who was offering the money.
“Pakatan has a firm principle and there is no way we will offer any MP money to cross over,” he said, calling Tiong’s statement “not true.”
In response to Tiong’s allegation that the Barian MPs were also offered Cabinet positions, Sivarasa said negotiating posts was a normal procedure in any political framework.
“Even when we negotiated to join each other (to form Pakatan), we also discussed who would head certain positions in the party.
“There is nothing wrong or immoral about it,” he told reporters at a press conference here on Saturday.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Court to hear Raja Petra’s application next Friday - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 19, 2008
The High Court here fixed next Friday to hear the habeas corpus application by Raja Petra Raja Kamaruddin who is seeking his release from detention under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
The case will be heard before Justice Datuk Mohamed Apandi Ali.
His counsel, Ashok Kandiah, when contacted said he met Raja Petra at Bukit Aman and the Malaysia Today editor had affirmed his affidavit which would be filed at the High Court crminal registry today (Friday) to facilitate his application.
Raja Petra filed a notice of motion through Messrs Mathews Hun Kandiah on Tuesday citing the grounds that his detention was unlawful and contravened the Federal Constitution.
He was arrested at his home in Sg Buloh last Friday, followed by Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng and Seputeh member of parliament Teresa Kok.
Tan was freed last Saturday after being detained for 18 hours while Kok was released on Friday. -- Bernama
The High Court here fixed next Friday to hear the habeas corpus application by Raja Petra Raja Kamaruddin who is seeking his release from detention under the Internal Security Act (ISA).The case will be heard before Justice Datuk Mohamed Apandi Ali.
His counsel, Ashok Kandiah, when contacted said he met Raja Petra at Bukit Aman and the Malaysia Today editor had affirmed his affidavit which would be filed at the High Court crminal registry today (Friday) to facilitate his application.
Raja Petra filed a notice of motion through Messrs Mathews Hun Kandiah on Tuesday citing the grounds that his detention was unlawful and contravened the Federal Constitution.
He was arrested at his home in Sg Buloh last Friday, followed by Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng and Seputeh member of parliament Teresa Kok.
Tan was freed last Saturday after being detained for 18 hours while Kok was released on Friday. -- Bernama
Press statement issued by Teresa Kok
Sept 19, 2008
The following is the press statement issued by Teresa Kok who was released after being detained for seven days under the ISA.
I have been released after being detained in solitary confinement in a 6-by-8 holding cell for seven days under the Internal Security Act (ISA). I was informed by the police that they detained me under section 73(1) of Internal Security Act 1960, which means I have incited racial and religious tension and conflict.
After being detained for seven days under the guise of so-called investigations, the police failed to produce any evidence or proof of me being involved in the activities of causing racial and religious tension. They were only able to ask me few questions based entirely on the false and malicious article written by Zaini Hassan under the topic ‘Azan, Jawi, JAIS, UiTM dan ba-alif-ba-ya’ that was published in Utusan Malaysia on Sept 10, 2008.
The three main questions that the investigation officers asked me were:
1. whether I have mobilised a group of residents at Bandar Kinrara to present a petition to oppose to the azan at the Bandar Kinrara mosque;
2. whether I have made a statement that 30 percent of the Selangor Islamic Department (JAIS) allocation is to be given to other non-Islam religious bodies; and
3. whether I have opposed to the Jawi-wording road signages in Kuala Lumpur.
I denied the first two accusations as I did not do any such things as accused. I also told them that the issue of opposing Jawi road signages in Kuala Lumpur were done in January/February 2008 at the request and following the pressure of resident associations.
The resident associations, particularly in Taman Seputeh, were most unhappy because many of the road signages were changed arbitrarily by DBKL a few months before and changed again soon after, this time with Jawi wordings. They were strongly opposed to this kind of wastage of public funds by DBKL.
I was quite surprised that there were no other questions posed to me besides these few main questions.
The ISA is meant to detain people who threaten national security. The three issues stated above have nothing to do with national security. If the police wanted to carry out investigation on me, they can always ask me to give statements in any of the police station and there was absolutely no need to detain me under the ISA for seven days. This is a phenomenal abuse of the power of police under the ISA.
Besides, it is nonsensical for the police to detain me under the ISA merely based on the unsubstantiated article written by an irresponsible columnist in Utusan Malaysia. How can they regard that article as the gospel truth without investigating the writer in the first place? How can Utusan Malaysia publish it without verifying the facts?
I wish to ask the police whether they have called Zaini and Utusan Malaysia's editors for questioning before and after my detention.
I know that the imam of Bandar Kinrara mosque has publicly denied that I was involved in the Puchong residents petition against azan of his mosque on Sept 13. I am also quite surprised to read in the New Straits Times dated Sept 19 that the official of the Bandar Kinrara mosque was called by the Dang Wangi police for statement recording only yesterday afternoon.
Why did the police do it so late, one week after I was arrested? Why didn't they check their facts first before they arrest me and put me behind bars?
I see my detention as a ploy by Umno to try to cover up the embarrassment and the outrage of the racist statements made by (ex-Bukit Bendera Umno division chief) Ahmad Ismail in Penang. I wonder why did they choose an innocent person like me as I have never made any racist statements or racist speeches in the past?
I have lodged the police report on Sept 17, 2008 against Utusan Malaysia, Zaini and Dr Mohd Khir Toyo for criminal defamation. I would therefore urge the police to investigate Utusan Malaysia's editors, those racist bloggers and Khir Toyo under the Penal Code.
As I have mentioned in my previous lawyer's visit, I will sue Utusan Malaysia, Zaini and Khir Toyo. I have also instructed my lawyers to sue the Malaysian government for my unlawful arrest and detention.
As I am free from ISA detention today, I also call for the release of Raja Petra Kamarudin, the Hindraf Five and all other 60 over detainees under the draconian ISA.
I would also like to thank all politicians in the ruling parties as well as in the Pakatan Rakyat, NGOs, churches and all social organisations who have campaigned and prayed for my release.
TERESA KOK
Seputeh MP
Selangor senior exco
Kinrara state assemblyperson
The following is the press statement issued by Teresa Kok who was released after being detained for seven days under the ISA.
I have been released after being detained in solitary confinement in a 6-by-8 holding cell for seven days under the Internal Security Act (ISA). I was informed by the police that they detained me under section 73(1) of Internal Security Act 1960, which means I have incited racial and religious tension and conflict.
After being detained for seven days under the guise of so-called investigations, the police failed to produce any evidence or proof of me being involved in the activities of causing racial and religious tension. They were only able to ask me few questions based entirely on the false and malicious article written by Zaini Hassan under the topic ‘Azan, Jawi, JAIS, UiTM dan ba-alif-ba-ya’ that was published in Utusan Malaysia on Sept 10, 2008.
The three main questions that the investigation officers asked me were:
1. whether I have mobilised a group of residents at Bandar Kinrara to present a petition to oppose to the azan at the Bandar Kinrara mosque;
2. whether I have made a statement that 30 percent of the Selangor Islamic Department (JAIS) allocation is to be given to other non-Islam religious bodies; and
3. whether I have opposed to the Jawi-wording road signages in Kuala Lumpur.
I denied the first two accusations as I did not do any such things as accused. I also told them that the issue of opposing Jawi road signages in Kuala Lumpur were done in January/February 2008 at the request and following the pressure of resident associations.
The resident associations, particularly in Taman Seputeh, were most unhappy because many of the road signages were changed arbitrarily by DBKL a few months before and changed again soon after, this time with Jawi wordings. They were strongly opposed to this kind of wastage of public funds by DBKL.
I was quite surprised that there were no other questions posed to me besides these few main questions.
The ISA is meant to detain people who threaten national security. The three issues stated above have nothing to do with national security. If the police wanted to carry out investigation on me, they can always ask me to give statements in any of the police station and there was absolutely no need to detain me under the ISA for seven days. This is a phenomenal abuse of the power of police under the ISA.
Besides, it is nonsensical for the police to detain me under the ISA merely based on the unsubstantiated article written by an irresponsible columnist in Utusan Malaysia. How can they regard that article as the gospel truth without investigating the writer in the first place? How can Utusan Malaysia publish it without verifying the facts?
I wish to ask the police whether they have called Zaini and Utusan Malaysia's editors for questioning before and after my detention.
I know that the imam of Bandar Kinrara mosque has publicly denied that I was involved in the Puchong residents petition against azan of his mosque on Sept 13. I am also quite surprised to read in the New Straits Times dated Sept 19 that the official of the Bandar Kinrara mosque was called by the Dang Wangi police for statement recording only yesterday afternoon.
Why did the police do it so late, one week after I was arrested? Why didn't they check their facts first before they arrest me and put me behind bars?
I see my detention as a ploy by Umno to try to cover up the embarrassment and the outrage of the racist statements made by (ex-Bukit Bendera Umno division chief) Ahmad Ismail in Penang. I wonder why did they choose an innocent person like me as I have never made any racist statements or racist speeches in the past?
I have lodged the police report on Sept 17, 2008 against Utusan Malaysia, Zaini and Dr Mohd Khir Toyo for criminal defamation. I would therefore urge the police to investigate Utusan Malaysia's editors, those racist bloggers and Khir Toyo under the Penal Code.
As I have mentioned in my previous lawyer's visit, I will sue Utusan Malaysia, Zaini and Khir Toyo. I have also instructed my lawyers to sue the Malaysian government for my unlawful arrest and detention.
As I am free from ISA detention today, I also call for the release of Raja Petra Kamarudin, the Hindraf Five and all other 60 over detainees under the draconian ISA.
I would also like to thank all politicians in the ruling parties as well as in the Pakatan Rakyat, NGOs, churches and all social organisations who have campaigned and prayed for my release.
TERESA KOK
Seputeh MP
Selangor senior exco
Kinrara state assemblyperson
Teresa Kok released - Malaysiakini
Sep 19, 08 1:22pm
DAP Seputeh MP Teresa Kok was released unconditionally at 1pm today, after being held under the Internal Security Act for six days.
Kok walked out from the Jalan Travers police station at 1.40pm, accompanied by her lawyer Sankara Nair and her personal aide, Mandy Ooi.
She was greeted by her visibly elated parents.
Kok was immediately hugged her mother, Poon Seh Kwon, who gave her daughter a bunch of white and pink roses.
"I don't know what I've got into... I don't know what is the real reason (that) caused me to (be) put behind bars for one week," she told journalists outside the police station.
Kok, who is also the Selangor state executive council member, expressed that she was still slightly shaken but glad that she was released.
More news at: www.malaysiakini.com
DAP Seputeh MP Teresa Kok was released unconditionally at 1pm today, after being held under the Internal Security Act for six days.Kok walked out from the Jalan Travers police station at 1.40pm, accompanied by her lawyer Sankara Nair and her personal aide, Mandy Ooi.
She was greeted by her visibly elated parents.
Kok was immediately hugged her mother, Poon Seh Kwon, who gave her daughter a bunch of white and pink roses.
"I don't know what I've got into... I don't know what is the real reason (that) caused me to (be) put behind bars for one week," she told journalists outside the police station.
Kok, who is also the Selangor state executive council member, expressed that she was still slightly shaken but glad that she was released.
More news at: www.malaysiakini.com
Karpal sues Utusan for RM10mil - NST
KUALA LUMPUR, FRI: Sept 19, 2008
Bukit Gelugor Member of Parliament Karpal Singh has filed a RM10 million suit against Utusan Melayu (M) Sdn Bhd over a defamatory article on his comments on Islam.
The writ of summons was filed at the Civil High Court registry in the Jalan Duta Court Complex today through his law firm, Karpal Singh & Co.
In his statement of claim, Karpal, who is also a lawyer, claimed the article entitled “DAP diingat jangan bakar perasaan Melayu” (DAP reminded not to inflame sentiments of Malays) published last Aug 25, had stated that he made the comments on Islam in his welcoming speech at the 15th DAP National Congress held on the previous day (Aug 24).
He claimed the defamatory words were understood to mean, among others, that Karpal was a politician bent on creating ill-will among the different communities in the country, was absolutely false and malicious and were intended to destroy his professional and political careers.
The Democratic Action Party (DAP) national chairman said he had consistently maintained in his public speeches and during his membership of Parliament in the Dewan Rakyat for the last 26 years that Islam was the official religion of the country as provided under Article 3 (1) of the Federal Constitution.
Karpal said he gave notice to Utusan for retraction and apology without prejudice to his right to commence legal proceedings against the Bahasa Malaysia daily newspaper.
He stated that it would be in Utusan’s best interests to comply with his demand for mitigation purposes on damages which could ultimately be ordered against the newspaper by the court.
He said Utusan complied with his demand and had published an article entitled “Ralat” on Aug 26, retracting and giving its unconditional apology to him and accepted that the words complained of, had no basis.
Karpal noted that the publication of the defamatory words by Utusan on the eve of the polling day of the Permatang Pauh by-election parliamentary seat was to defame him in his capacity as a Pakatan Rakyat coalition leader, with a view to ensure that de facto Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim lost in the by-election.
He sought RM10 million in general damages, aggravated damages, exemplary damages, interest, costs and any relief deemed proper by the court.
Bukit Gelugor Member of Parliament Karpal Singh has filed a RM10 million suit against Utusan Melayu (M) Sdn Bhd over a defamatory article on his comments on Islam.
The writ of summons was filed at the Civil High Court registry in the Jalan Duta Court Complex today through his law firm, Karpal Singh & Co.
In his statement of claim, Karpal, who is also a lawyer, claimed the article entitled “DAP diingat jangan bakar perasaan Melayu” (DAP reminded not to inflame sentiments of Malays) published last Aug 25, had stated that he made the comments on Islam in his welcoming speech at the 15th DAP National Congress held on the previous day (Aug 24).
He claimed the defamatory words were understood to mean, among others, that Karpal was a politician bent on creating ill-will among the different communities in the country, was absolutely false and malicious and were intended to destroy his professional and political careers.
The Democratic Action Party (DAP) national chairman said he had consistently maintained in his public speeches and during his membership of Parliament in the Dewan Rakyat for the last 26 years that Islam was the official religion of the country as provided under Article 3 (1) of the Federal Constitution.
Karpal said he gave notice to Utusan for retraction and apology without prejudice to his right to commence legal proceedings against the Bahasa Malaysia daily newspaper.
He stated that it would be in Utusan’s best interests to comply with his demand for mitigation purposes on damages which could ultimately be ordered against the newspaper by the court.
He said Utusan complied with his demand and had published an article entitled “Ralat” on Aug 26, retracting and giving its unconditional apology to him and accepted that the words complained of, had no basis.
Karpal noted that the publication of the defamatory words by Utusan on the eve of the polling day of the Permatang Pauh by-election parliamentary seat was to defame him in his capacity as a Pakatan Rakyat coalition leader, with a view to ensure that de facto Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim lost in the by-election.
He sought RM10 million in general damages, aggravated damages, exemplary damages, interest, costs and any relief deemed proper by the court.
GUAN ENG: Anwar a threat only to BN - NST
GEORGE TOWN: DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng said yesterday Malaysians generally did not think that Pakatan Raykat de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was a threat to the nation.
He said the people of Permatang Pauh especially liked Anwar and that was why they elected him in the by-election on Aug 26.
"Of course, Anwar is a threat but only to Barisan Nasional and Umno. He is also a threat to the position of the prime minister."
Lim, the Penang chief minister, was asked to comment on Prime Minister Da-tuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's statement that Anwar was creating a negative effect on the government and the economy.
Lim congratulated Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak for being appointed as the finance minister and Abdullah for taking over the Defence Ministry.
"I look forward to a constructive working relationship with him (Najib)."
He added that he would seek an appointment with Najib to brief the latter on areas in which the Federal and state governments could work together.
He said the people of Permatang Pauh especially liked Anwar and that was why they elected him in the by-election on Aug 26.
"Of course, Anwar is a threat but only to Barisan Nasional and Umno. He is also a threat to the position of the prime minister."
Lim, the Penang chief minister, was asked to comment on Prime Minister Da-tuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's statement that Anwar was creating a negative effect on the government and the economy.
Lim congratulated Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak for being appointed as the finance minister and Abdullah for taking over the Defence Ministry.
"I look forward to a constructive working relationship with him (Najib)."
He added that he would seek an appointment with Najib to brief the latter on areas in which the Federal and state governments could work together.
FREED: Teresa Kok relates her one-week ordeal - NST
KUALA LUMPUR, FRI: Sept 19, 2008
Seputeh MP Teresa Kok who was detained under ISA has been released. The assemblyman for Kinrara was arrested at 11.20pm last Friday believed to be over a religious matter concerning a mosque.
Kok called her counsel N. Sankara Nair at 1pm while she was being transported from Bukit Aman to the Travers Police Station.
Sankara met her there.
They are now on their way to DAP headquarters where she will hold a press conference at 3.30pm.
In a phone interview with the NST moments ago, Kok related her ordeal.
“They kept questioning me about the article (Utusan’s article ). I kept denying it," she said. “How can I be considered a national security threat?
"Till today, I don’t know why I was held under the ISA.”
It was a totally ridiculous stuation. Nobody should be held under the ISA,” she told NST.
Utusan Malaysia’s Sept 10 article entitled "Azan, Jawi, JAIS dan ba-alif ba-ya" accused Kok of petitioning a mosque to reduce the volume for azan.
She had vehemently denied the allegation.
Seputeh MP Teresa Kok who was detained under ISA has been released. The assemblyman for Kinrara was arrested at 11.20pm last Friday believed to be over a religious matter concerning a mosque.Kok called her counsel N. Sankara Nair at 1pm while she was being transported from Bukit Aman to the Travers Police Station.
Sankara met her there.
They are now on their way to DAP headquarters where she will hold a press conference at 3.30pm.
In a phone interview with the NST moments ago, Kok related her ordeal.
“They kept questioning me about the article (Utusan’s article ). I kept denying it," she said. “How can I be considered a national security threat?
"Till today, I don’t know why I was held under the ISA.”
It was a totally ridiculous stuation. Nobody should be held under the ISA,” she told NST.
Utusan Malaysia’s Sept 10 article entitled "Azan, Jawi, JAIS dan ba-alif ba-ya" accused Kok of petitioning a mosque to reduce the volume for azan.
She had vehemently denied the allegation.
Dr M: No justification for arrest of bloggers, Teresa - Star
PUTRAJAYA: Sept 19, 2008
There is no justification for the arrest of bloggers Raja Petra Kamarudin and Syed Azidi Syed Abdul Aziz, better known as Kickdefella, and Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, said Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
The former prime minister condemned the use of the Internal Security Act (ISA) against Raja Petra, who is the editor of controversial online news portal Malaysia Today, and Kok, a Selangor executive councillor and Seputeh MP.
Syed Azidi was detained for sedition on Wednesday for posting allegedly seditious statements in his blog.
Dr Mahathir said Kok’s arrest was not justified as there was no security reason at the moment but the Government could arrest her later for such a purpose if necessary.
He said if Kok was involved in trying to stop the azan (call for prayers), there should be an explanation that the subject was not something she should talk about.
Asked if he would agree for the ISA to be amended, he said there was no amendment during his time as the people who were enforcing it refused to amend it.
He said this to reporters after launching his book chedet.com Blogging to unblock at the Perdana Leadership Foundation here yesterday.
On him rejoining Umno, Dr Mahathir said he would wait for the right time to submit his application.
There is no justification for the arrest of bloggers Raja Petra Kamarudin and Syed Azidi Syed Abdul Aziz, better known as Kickdefella, and Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, said Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
The former prime minister condemned the use of the Internal Security Act (ISA) against Raja Petra, who is the editor of controversial online news portal Malaysia Today, and Kok, a Selangor executive councillor and Seputeh MP.
Syed Azidi was detained for sedition on Wednesday for posting allegedly seditious statements in his blog.
Dr Mahathir said Kok’s arrest was not justified as there was no security reason at the moment but the Government could arrest her later for such a purpose if necessary.
He said if Kok was involved in trying to stop the azan (call for prayers), there should be an explanation that the subject was not something she should talk about.
Asked if he would agree for the ISA to be amended, he said there was no amendment during his time as the people who were enforcing it refused to amend it.
He said this to reporters after launching his book chedet.com Blogging to unblock at the Perdana Leadership Foundation here yesterday.
On him rejoining Umno, Dr Mahathir said he would wait for the right time to submit his application.
Teresa Kok released from ISA detention - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 19, 2008
Picture courtesy of Malaysiakini
Seputeh MP Teresa Kok was released from detention under the Internal Security Act at about 1pm on Friday, her lawyer Sankara Nair said.
He said she had called him and he was now on the way to the Jalan Travers police station here to meet her.
Kok, 44, is expected to give a press conference at the DAP headquarters in Petaling Jaya at 3pm.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar said that she had been released at 1.30pm after investigations showed there was no reason to detain her any further.
She was released unconditionally.
The Kinrara assemblyman and senior Selangor state executive councillor was detained one week ago, together with Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng.
Tan was released after 18 hours.
Kok was detained because she was considered a potential threat to national security for "racial incitement" after she was accused of petitioning a mosque to reduce the volume for azan (the call to prayer), something which she had vehemently denied.
The accusation surfaced in a Sept 10 article in Utusan Malaysia quoting former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo.
The accusation was refuted by the Kinrara mosque committee chairman and Kota Raja MP Dr Siti Mariah had lodged a police report against Dr Mohd Khir on this issue.
Kok also lodged a police report against the Malay daily, its columnist Zaini Hassan and Dr Mohd Khir.
“I believe one of the excuses for my ISA detention is in relation to that article and I place Utusan Malaysia, Zaini Hassan and Dr Mohd Khir Toyo responsible for my arrest,” she had stated in her police report.
On Monday, Kok filed a habeas corpus application in the High Court for her release citing that her arrest and detention under the Internal Security Act was unlawful.
Sankara said then that the court had fixed Sept 23 for hearing but said they would apply for Sept 22 instead as he had another case and Karpal Singh would be in East Malaysia on that date.
Picture courtesy of MalaysiakiniSeputeh MP Teresa Kok was released from detention under the Internal Security Act at about 1pm on Friday, her lawyer Sankara Nair said.
He said she had called him and he was now on the way to the Jalan Travers police station here to meet her.
Kok, 44, is expected to give a press conference at the DAP headquarters in Petaling Jaya at 3pm.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar said that she had been released at 1.30pm after investigations showed there was no reason to detain her any further.
She was released unconditionally.
The Kinrara assemblyman and senior Selangor state executive councillor was detained one week ago, together with Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng.
Tan was released after 18 hours.
Kok was detained because she was considered a potential threat to national security for "racial incitement" after she was accused of petitioning a mosque to reduce the volume for azan (the call to prayer), something which she had vehemently denied.
The accusation surfaced in a Sept 10 article in Utusan Malaysia quoting former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo.
The accusation was refuted by the Kinrara mosque committee chairman and Kota Raja MP Dr Siti Mariah had lodged a police report against Dr Mohd Khir on this issue.
Kok also lodged a police report against the Malay daily, its columnist Zaini Hassan and Dr Mohd Khir.
“I believe one of the excuses for my ISA detention is in relation to that article and I place Utusan Malaysia, Zaini Hassan and Dr Mohd Khir Toyo responsible for my arrest,” she had stated in her police report.
On Monday, Kok filed a habeas corpus application in the High Court for her release citing that her arrest and detention under the Internal Security Act was unlawful.
Sankara said then that the court had fixed Sept 23 for hearing but said they would apply for Sept 22 instead as he had another case and Karpal Singh would be in East Malaysia on that date.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
24-hour remand for blogger Kickdefella - Star
KOTA BARU: Sept 18, 2008 By IAN MCINTYRE
Police on Thursday obtained a 24-hour remand order for blogger Syed Azidi Syed Aziz, better known as Sheih Kickdefella, who is under investigation for posting allegedly seditious statements on his blog.
He was brought to court around 1pm under escort by two burly plainclothes policemen in an unmarked four wheel drive vehicle.
Handcuffed, Syed Azidi who is an employee of the Kelantan Mentri Besar Incorporated firm, smiled and waved to a small group of supporters led by PAS vice-president Datuk Husam Musa at the magistrate’s court.
He is schedule to be brought to Kuala Lumpur later for further investigations under Section 4 (1) of the Sedition Act.
It is believed that the investigations are centred on his blog post calling for people to fly the national flag upside down as a protest to certain Federal Government policies and its leadership.
According to his wife Bariah Ishak, her husband looked pale and his lips were dry so she was worried because he suffers from low sugar levels.
”He is cautious about his food intake because his mother is a diabetic so I hope the police would consider his condition and perhaps offer him a carbonated drink when he breaks fast.”
Bariah, 37, said in the few moments she had to speak with him, Syed Azidi informed that he only received two packets of plain water besides some food since he was detained on Wednesday at the couple’s home in Demit.
The couple have four young children who have not been told of their father’s arrest but merely told that he has to travel to Kuala Lumpur.
Husam who is a close friend of the blogger, later told a press conference that this detention was a form of selective prosecution and that it was to intimidate bloggers active in cyberspace.
He would appoint lawyers to fight any charges posed against Syed Azidi.
State Deputy CPO SAC (II) Amir Hamzah Hussin said he was informed that the blogger would be brought to Kuala Lumpur since the police report concerning seditious statements was lodged there.
It is also learnt that the police have seized his laptop and several compact dics from his home.
Police on Thursday obtained a 24-hour remand order for blogger Syed Azidi Syed Aziz, better known as Sheih Kickdefella, who is under investigation for posting allegedly seditious statements on his blog.
He was brought to court around 1pm under escort by two burly plainclothes policemen in an unmarked four wheel drive vehicle.
Handcuffed, Syed Azidi who is an employee of the Kelantan Mentri Besar Incorporated firm, smiled and waved to a small group of supporters led by PAS vice-president Datuk Husam Musa at the magistrate’s court.
He is schedule to be brought to Kuala Lumpur later for further investigations under Section 4 (1) of the Sedition Act.
It is believed that the investigations are centred on his blog post calling for people to fly the national flag upside down as a protest to certain Federal Government policies and its leadership.
According to his wife Bariah Ishak, her husband looked pale and his lips were dry so she was worried because he suffers from low sugar levels.
”He is cautious about his food intake because his mother is a diabetic so I hope the police would consider his condition and perhaps offer him a carbonated drink when he breaks fast.”
Bariah, 37, said in the few moments she had to speak with him, Syed Azidi informed that he only received two packets of plain water besides some food since he was detained on Wednesday at the couple’s home in Demit.
The couple have four young children who have not been told of their father’s arrest but merely told that he has to travel to Kuala Lumpur.
Husam who is a close friend of the blogger, later told a press conference that this detention was a form of selective prosecution and that it was to intimidate bloggers active in cyberspace.
He would appoint lawyers to fight any charges posed against Syed Azidi.
State Deputy CPO SAC (II) Amir Hamzah Hussin said he was informed that the blogger would be brought to Kuala Lumpur since the police report concerning seditious statements was lodged there.
It is also learnt that the police have seized his laptop and several compact dics from his home.
RM1,000 fine each for 27 Hindraf supporters - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 18, 2008 By M. MAGESWARI
Twenty-seven men who admitted to failing to disperse from the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) unlawful assemblies around the city on Nov 25 last year despite police order to do so were fined RM1,000 each.
They have to serve three weeks in jail in default of the payment.
In sentencing the group Thursday, sessions court judge Akhtar Tahir said he had considered mitigating factors such as their guilty pleas which had saved the court substantive time and costs.
“The fact that they have pleaded guilty after 12 witnesses were called to testify (only) indicates that they have shown remorse for their actions,” he said.
Akhtar said he also considered the fact that the 27 men did not show actual violence at the assemblies and were first-time offenders.
“I conclude that the number of days they had present in court during the trial is also punishment for them,” he said.
Akhtar added that he had taken into account that an illegal assembly however peaceful is a serious offence as it had disturbed public order and endangered public property.
“I feel that it is not necessary for a jail term to be imposed on them. On the other hand, the sentence of fine has to be substantial so that it will not be a slap on the wrist but will teach them a lesson,” he said.
The judge said the fine would be a punishment for the group as they faced financial difficulty.
Akhtar said he had considered their admission to the first charge for being members of the unlawful assembly due to the defence’s team representation to the Attorney-General’s Chambers earlier.
53 people, comprising mostly odd-job workers and labourers, had claimed trial to the second charge of continuing to be in an unlawful assembly knowing that there was an order to disperse.
On Thursday, 45 men and a woman aged between 21 and 62 turned up for the continuation of the two-week trial.
Of the figure, 27 admitted to the charge. Five people who were on medical leave were absent while two people had been issued arrest warrants.
Pleading for leniency earlier, Chairman of the Criminal Practice Committee of the KL Bar Datuk N.Sivananthan argued that his clients had saved the court cost and time in view of the 200 subpoenas which had been issued for the case.
He said the group did not have any motive to create problems or protest but merely wanted to submit a petition to Queen Elizabeth through the British High Commmission over compensation for Indians.
Sivananthan said the two or three nights served under remand after their arrest itself was a bitter experience and punishment for them.
He said the two weeks’ trial had also resulted in many losing their jobs and income.
DPP Amir Nasruddin pressed for a deterrent sentence saying that their refusal to disperse after an order was given showed their intention to commit the offence.
The prosecutor said the court had to consider public interest.
“The assembly itself had caused disturbance to road users including the public transport system,” he added.
Akhtar set Tuesday to hear the case against the 26 people who faced similar charges after Sivananthan said he believed more people would plead guilty to the charges that day.
Sivananthan said four people had settled their fines while the remaining had paid a minimum of RM50 each and agreed to settle the difference within two months due to his application to the judge.
Twenty-seven men who admitted to failing to disperse from the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) unlawful assemblies around the city on Nov 25 last year despite police order to do so were fined RM1,000 each.
They have to serve three weeks in jail in default of the payment.
In sentencing the group Thursday, sessions court judge Akhtar Tahir said he had considered mitigating factors such as their guilty pleas which had saved the court substantive time and costs.
“The fact that they have pleaded guilty after 12 witnesses were called to testify (only) indicates that they have shown remorse for their actions,” he said.
Akhtar said he also considered the fact that the 27 men did not show actual violence at the assemblies and were first-time offenders.
“I conclude that the number of days they had present in court during the trial is also punishment for them,” he said.
Akhtar added that he had taken into account that an illegal assembly however peaceful is a serious offence as it had disturbed public order and endangered public property.
“I feel that it is not necessary for a jail term to be imposed on them. On the other hand, the sentence of fine has to be substantial so that it will not be a slap on the wrist but will teach them a lesson,” he said.
The judge said the fine would be a punishment for the group as they faced financial difficulty.
Akhtar said he had considered their admission to the first charge for being members of the unlawful assembly due to the defence’s team representation to the Attorney-General’s Chambers earlier.
53 people, comprising mostly odd-job workers and labourers, had claimed trial to the second charge of continuing to be in an unlawful assembly knowing that there was an order to disperse.
On Thursday, 45 men and a woman aged between 21 and 62 turned up for the continuation of the two-week trial.
Of the figure, 27 admitted to the charge. Five people who were on medical leave were absent while two people had been issued arrest warrants.
Pleading for leniency earlier, Chairman of the Criminal Practice Committee of the KL Bar Datuk N.Sivananthan argued that his clients had saved the court cost and time in view of the 200 subpoenas which had been issued for the case.
He said the group did not have any motive to create problems or protest but merely wanted to submit a petition to Queen Elizabeth through the British High Commmission over compensation for Indians.
Sivananthan said the two or three nights served under remand after their arrest itself was a bitter experience and punishment for them.
He said the two weeks’ trial had also resulted in many losing their jobs and income.
DPP Amir Nasruddin pressed for a deterrent sentence saying that their refusal to disperse after an order was given showed their intention to commit the offence.
The prosecutor said the court had to consider public interest.
“The assembly itself had caused disturbance to road users including the public transport system,” he added.
Akhtar set Tuesday to hear the case against the 26 people who faced similar charges after Sivananthan said he believed more people would plead guilty to the charges that day.
Sivananthan said four people had settled their fines while the remaining had paid a minimum of RM50 each and agreed to settle the difference within two months due to his application to the judge.
Anwar wants Parliament to meet by Sept 23 - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sep 18, 2008
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim claims he sent a letter to the Prime Minister on Thursday requesting him to call an emergency Parliament session no later that Sept 23 to deliberate on a vote of no-confidence against Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s leadership.
The letter was jointly signed by him as the PKR leader, PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang and DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang, he said at a press conference at the PKR headquarters here Thursday afternoon.
“We will convene an emergency meeting if there is no response from the Prime Minister.
“And we won’t reveal the 31 names (of the MPs crossing over) unless the Prime Minister categorically assures that MPs are given their chance to appear (in Parliament) next Tuesday (Sept 23) to give their vote in the motion of ‘no-confidence’ against the PM,” he added.
Anwar also did not discount the possibility of seeking an audience with the King as one of the options Pakatan would take if Abdullah fails to convene an emergency Parliament session.
He added he found the Prime Minister’s comment that he was a threat to national and economic security as “reckless and irresponsible in light of the disastrous outcome of last Friday’s ISA raids.”
When asked if he was concerned about being arrested under the ISA, Anwar said there was no reason why he should be arrested.
“Furthermore, the PM and Home Minister have assured there would be no more arrests,” he said.
The Opposition leader and Permatang Pauh MP also told reporters that he has been in touch with SAPP president Datuk Yong Teck Lee.
The Sabah party announced on Wednesday that it was pulling out of Barisan Nasional but would not be joining Pakatan Rakyat.
Yong had said SAPP would remain independent in the Opposition bench until a time came when the party was ready to be back in government.
On Tuesday, Anwar claimed that he had enough lawmakers to form a new government but has officially delayed the takeover deadline.
He said he was prepared to delay the deadline in the interest of a smooth transition of power.
He said he was also ready to show Abdullah Ahmad Badawi the list of Barisan Nasional MPs defecting over to Pakatan Rakyat should Abdullah grant him a meeting.
“The numbers are increasing by the hour, but as of now, it is in excess of 31 MPs, This is not empty talk. I am fully responsible for my statement but we have choose to be patient and use the conciliatory way,” Anwar had told a packed press conference at the PKR headquarters.
The Opposition Leader said he would even give Abdullah the list of names of Barisan MPs wanting to defect at their meeting.
“I am appealing in the name of political stability and smooth transition. It will be preposterous for the Prime Minister to deny me this meeting. He has no choice but to negotiate since we have the numbers,” said Anwar.
Asked why he still refused to give the exact number of defecting MPs, or their names, Anwar replied there was fear the MPs would be detained or harassed.
Pressed for a deadline for the meeting, Anwar said he did not like to give any ultimatum but it should be within these few days or other options would be considered.
Asked if he would seek an audience with the King and present himself as commanding majority in Parliament, or would he seek a no-confidence motion against Abdullah at the next Parliament sitting in October, Anwar was non-committal and said such options would be discussed at the highest leadership level in Pakatan.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim claims he sent a letter to the Prime Minister on Thursday requesting him to call an emergency Parliament session no later that Sept 23 to deliberate on a vote of no-confidence against Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s leadership.
The letter was jointly signed by him as the PKR leader, PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang and DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang, he said at a press conference at the PKR headquarters here Thursday afternoon.
“We will convene an emergency meeting if there is no response from the Prime Minister.
“And we won’t reveal the 31 names (of the MPs crossing over) unless the Prime Minister categorically assures that MPs are given their chance to appear (in Parliament) next Tuesday (Sept 23) to give their vote in the motion of ‘no-confidence’ against the PM,” he added.
Anwar also did not discount the possibility of seeking an audience with the King as one of the options Pakatan would take if Abdullah fails to convene an emergency Parliament session.
He added he found the Prime Minister’s comment that he was a threat to national and economic security as “reckless and irresponsible in light of the disastrous outcome of last Friday’s ISA raids.”
When asked if he was concerned about being arrested under the ISA, Anwar said there was no reason why he should be arrested.
“Furthermore, the PM and Home Minister have assured there would be no more arrests,” he said.
The Opposition leader and Permatang Pauh MP also told reporters that he has been in touch with SAPP president Datuk Yong Teck Lee.
The Sabah party announced on Wednesday that it was pulling out of Barisan Nasional but would not be joining Pakatan Rakyat.
Yong had said SAPP would remain independent in the Opposition bench until a time came when the party was ready to be back in government.
On Tuesday, Anwar claimed that he had enough lawmakers to form a new government but has officially delayed the takeover deadline.
He said he was prepared to delay the deadline in the interest of a smooth transition of power.
He said he was also ready to show Abdullah Ahmad Badawi the list of Barisan Nasional MPs defecting over to Pakatan Rakyat should Abdullah grant him a meeting.
“The numbers are increasing by the hour, but as of now, it is in excess of 31 MPs, This is not empty talk. I am fully responsible for my statement but we have choose to be patient and use the conciliatory way,” Anwar had told a packed press conference at the PKR headquarters.
The Opposition Leader said he would even give Abdullah the list of names of Barisan MPs wanting to defect at their meeting.
“I am appealing in the name of political stability and smooth transition. It will be preposterous for the Prime Minister to deny me this meeting. He has no choice but to negotiate since we have the numbers,” said Anwar.
Asked why he still refused to give the exact number of defecting MPs, or their names, Anwar replied there was fear the MPs would be detained or harassed.
Pressed for a deadline for the meeting, Anwar said he did not like to give any ultimatum but it should be within these few days or other options would be considered.
Asked if he would seek an audience with the King and present himself as commanding majority in Parliament, or would he seek a no-confidence motion against Abdullah at the next Parliament sitting in October, Anwar was non-committal and said such options would be discussed at the highest leadership level in Pakatan.
Full statement by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim - Star
Sept 18, 2008
Today Pakatan Rakyat leaders have submitted a letter to the Prime Minister requesting him to call an emergency session of Parliament to deliberate a motion of censure against the leadership of YAB Dato’ Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi no later than Tuesday 23 September 2008.
This is in accordance with Order 11(3) of the Standing Orders of Parliament and warrants an immediate response given the gravity of today’s political impasse. A delay in his response would be interpreted as nothing short of a further sabotage of the democratic process and abuse of Executive Power.
The Prime Minister’s haggling on the syntax of our first letter is puerile at best. The intent of our meeting as described in that letter was clearly to discuss the future course of the nation’s leadership – though in deference to his position and in accordance with acceptable norms we remain considerate and polite in our approach.
I find the Prime Minister’s comment about me in his press conference yesterday to be reckless and irresponsible in light of the disastrous outcome of last Friday’s ISA raids.
He has conflated what is essentially an issue of democracy, freedom and the rule of law with national security. The use of the ISA to harass and detain duly elected political opponents is a grave transgression of the law and its continued use would further erode confidence in the current government and exacerbate political instability.
As the incumbent Prime Minister actively holding office and exercising all Executive powers, and as the outgoing Finance Minister, we hold him fully accountable for the current political turmoil and mismanagement of the nation’s economy. His accusation that I have had an adverse impact on the nation’s economy is entirely without basis.
I have met with the key fund managers in the region, representing over US$1 trillion in assets, and on multiple occasions they were unanimously in support of comprehensive reforms in Malaysia including judicial independence, a free media, a more professional police force and anti-corruption agency, investor friendly laws and assurances on the non-interference of politicians in the governance of Bank Negara. These are policies Pakatan Rakyat has promised to implement– and initiatives that the current administration has done virtually nothing to advance since March 8th.
Today Pakatan Rakyat leaders have submitted a letter to the Prime Minister requesting him to call an emergency session of Parliament to deliberate a motion of censure against the leadership of YAB Dato’ Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi no later than Tuesday 23 September 2008.
This is in accordance with Order 11(3) of the Standing Orders of Parliament and warrants an immediate response given the gravity of today’s political impasse. A delay in his response would be interpreted as nothing short of a further sabotage of the democratic process and abuse of Executive Power.
The Prime Minister’s haggling on the syntax of our first letter is puerile at best. The intent of our meeting as described in that letter was clearly to discuss the future course of the nation’s leadership – though in deference to his position and in accordance with acceptable norms we remain considerate and polite in our approach.
I find the Prime Minister’s comment about me in his press conference yesterday to be reckless and irresponsible in light of the disastrous outcome of last Friday’s ISA raids.
He has conflated what is essentially an issue of democracy, freedom and the rule of law with national security. The use of the ISA to harass and detain duly elected political opponents is a grave transgression of the law and its continued use would further erode confidence in the current government and exacerbate political instability.
As the incumbent Prime Minister actively holding office and exercising all Executive powers, and as the outgoing Finance Minister, we hold him fully accountable for the current political turmoil and mismanagement of the nation’s economy. His accusation that I have had an adverse impact on the nation’s economy is entirely without basis.
I have met with the key fund managers in the region, representing over US$1 trillion in assets, and on multiple occasions they were unanimously in support of comprehensive reforms in Malaysia including judicial independence, a free media, a more professional police force and anti-corruption agency, investor friendly laws and assurances on the non-interference of politicians in the governance of Bank Negara. These are policies Pakatan Rakyat has promised to implement– and initiatives that the current administration has done virtually nothing to advance since March 8th.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Parliamentary caucus set up to free Teresa - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 17, 2008 By LEE YUK PENG and ELIZABETH LOOI
Pakatan Rakyat MPs have formed a ‘Free MP Teresa Kok Parliamentary Caucus’ with the support of Barisan Nasional’s Senator Datuk Zaid Ibrahim.
The purpose of the caucus is to seek solutions for an immediate and unconditional release of Kok from detention under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
The caucus is co-chaired by Ipoh Timur MP Lim Kit Siang (DAP adviser), Gombak MP Azmin Ali (PKR vice-president) and Tumpat MP Datuk Kamaruddin Jaafar (PAS secretary-general).
Lim said the caucus planned to meet Deputy Inspector General Tan Sri Ismail Omar for permission to visit Kok.
He also said they would write to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly for support.
He added that they would move an emergency motion on the detention of Kok when Parliament reconvenes on Oct 13.
“We will continue to get international pressure for her release.
“The main objective of the caucus is to free Kok but the larger objective is also for all ISA detainees to be freed,” he told reporters Wednesday after forming the caucus in Parliament here.
Forty-nine opposition MPs turned up at the meeting and they gave a standing ovation to Zaid when he walked in.
Zaid, who recently quit his post as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of law, said he supported the caucus because he was very concerned with the use of the ISA.
He said the ISA should be used against violent people or those who wanted to overthrow the Government by force for a limited period instead of against politicians or journalists.
“We use the ISA for political purpose, this is what we mean by abuse.
“Whoever is in power will abuse it as long as it’s up to their satisfaction,” he said.
Zaid also remarked that he knew Kok personally as she was his secretary when he was the president for Asean Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus.
“I cannot, for the life of me, see her as anti-Islam, anti-Malay, anti-anything ... she’s a wonderful lady,” he said, adding that he could not understand how Kok could be a threat to national security.
Other opposition party leaders who were present, including PKR secretary-general Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng and DAP national chairman Karpal Singh also called for the ISA to be repealed.
Pakatan Rakyat MPs have formed a ‘Free MP Teresa Kok Parliamentary Caucus’ with the support of Barisan Nasional’s Senator Datuk Zaid Ibrahim.
The purpose of the caucus is to seek solutions for an immediate and unconditional release of Kok from detention under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
The caucus is co-chaired by Ipoh Timur MP Lim Kit Siang (DAP adviser), Gombak MP Azmin Ali (PKR vice-president) and Tumpat MP Datuk Kamaruddin Jaafar (PAS secretary-general).
Lim said the caucus planned to meet Deputy Inspector General Tan Sri Ismail Omar for permission to visit Kok.
He also said they would write to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly for support.
He added that they would move an emergency motion on the detention of Kok when Parliament reconvenes on Oct 13.
“We will continue to get international pressure for her release.
“The main objective of the caucus is to free Kok but the larger objective is also for all ISA detainees to be freed,” he told reporters Wednesday after forming the caucus in Parliament here.
Forty-nine opposition MPs turned up at the meeting and they gave a standing ovation to Zaid when he walked in.
Zaid, who recently quit his post as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of law, said he supported the caucus because he was very concerned with the use of the ISA.
He said the ISA should be used against violent people or those who wanted to overthrow the Government by force for a limited period instead of against politicians or journalists.
“We use the ISA for political purpose, this is what we mean by abuse.
“Whoever is in power will abuse it as long as it’s up to their satisfaction,” he said.
Zaid also remarked that he knew Kok personally as she was his secretary when he was the president for Asean Inter-Parliamentary Myanmar Caucus.
“I cannot, for the life of me, see her as anti-Islam, anti-Malay, anti-anything ... she’s a wonderful lady,” he said, adding that he could not understand how Kok could be a threat to national security.
Other opposition party leaders who were present, including PKR secretary-general Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng and DAP national chairman Karpal Singh also called for the ISA to be repealed.
Tukar portfolio, talian hayat Abdullah/Umno - Mahfuz - Harakah
SEREMBAN, 17 Sept (Hrkh) Oleh Wan Nordin Wan Yaacob
Pertukaran portfolio yang diumumkan Perdana Menteri, Dato' Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi hari ini disifatkan sebagai satu lagi kaedah Abdullah menyelamatkan dirinya dan Umno.
Demikian kata Ketua Penerangan PAS, Mahfuz Omar ketika dihubungi Harakhdaily hari ini bagi mengulas senario kekalutan Abdullah merombak kabinet serta-merta.
Bernama melaporkan, Abdullah dan Dato' Seri Najib Tun Razak hari ini bertukar portfolio Menteri Pertahanan dan Kewangan sebagai sebahagian daripada proses penyerahan kuasa daripada Perdana Menteri kepada timbalannya itu pada Jun 2010.
Kedua-dua pemimpin juga komited dengan tempoh peralihan kuasa seperti yang ditetapkan sebelum ini, dan untuk pemilihan Umno pada Disember ini, Abdullah akan mempertahankan jawatan Presiden Umno dan Najib sebagai Timbalan Presiden parti.
Mengulas lanjut perkembangan itu, Mahfuz menyifatkan Abdullah merombak kabinet hanya kerana bimbang dengan senario dalaman Umno yang tidak menyebelahinya.
Malah pelan peralihan kuasa yang dirancang Abdullah-Najib tidak diterima kalangan Bahagian Umno, dan ini sedikit sebanyak menggoyahkan kedudukan Abdullah, katanya.
Mengapa Abdullah pegang pertahanan?
Selain itu ujar Mahfuz, terdapat kebimbangan dengan tindakan Abdullah mengambil portfolio pertahanan dari Najib kerana ini katanya mungkin untuk mempergunakan kementerian itu sebagai talian hayatnya.
"Saya bimbang dengan kedudukan Abdullah di Pertahanan yang memungkinkan penggunaan tentera jika keadaan mendesak tatkala mereka juga bimbang dengan senario perubahan kerajaan yang diusahakan Pakatan Rakyat," ujarnya.
Walaupun pada 16 September perubahan tidak berlaku, tetapi Abdullah sendiri bimbang dnegan ebarang kemungkinan dalam masa terdekat bahawa perubahan itu akan berlaku juga, kata Mahfuz.
Mahfuz juga menempelak kelemahan Abdullah yang baginya tidak bertanggungjawab terhadap portfolio lamanya sebagai Menteri kewangan selepas membentangkan Belanjawan 2009 yang belum sempat dibahas di Parlimen.
Tidak fikir hal rakyat
Akhirnya, kata Mahfuz Najib pula yang terpaksa menggalas tanggungjawab yang ditinggalkan Abdullah kerana kelemahan Abdullah sendiri.
"Ini satu signal jelas kepada rakyat bahawa kelemahan Abdullah sudah berada dikemuncaknya, dan perlu segera pertukaran kerajaan dilakukan, kata Mahfuz.
Mahfuz juga mempertikai keenganan kerajaan menurunkan harga minyak tatkala harga minyak dunia kini turun kepada USD 92 setong, dan janji kerajaan untuk menurunkan harga minyak hanya palsu.
"Ini semua kerana Abdullah tidak memikirkan hal rakyat, tetapi hanya fikir selamatkan diri sendiri," katanya.
Terdahulu, Abdullah yang bercakap pada sidang akhbar yang turut dihadiri oleh Najib di Putrajaya ini, berkata portfolio kewangan adalah penting dalam mengambil kira situasi ekonomi semasa dan ketidaktentuan ekonomi dunia.
Katanya beliau yakin Najib akan dapat melaksanakan peranannya yang amat penting itu terutama dalam memastikan ekonomi teguh dan kuat menghadapi cabaran.
Abdullah berkata dengan kedudukan Najib sebagai Menteri Kewangan kini, beliau (Najib) boleh memainkan peranan yang lebih penting apabila berada di New York untuk menghadiri Persidangan Pertubuhan Bangsa Bersatu (PBB) minggu depan.
Ini kerana, sebagai Menteri Kewangan, Najib akan dapat menemui pelabur dan pengurus dana semasa di New York nanti, kata Perdana Menteri.
Abdullah turut mengumumkan Najib kini mengambil alih jawatan Timbalan Pengerusi Khazanah sejajar dengan kedudukannya sebagai Menteri Kewangan. Jawatan itu sebelum ini disandang oleh Abdullah.
Ganti Abdullah kelak
Najib pula berkata langkah Perdana Menteri melantiknya sebagai Menteri Kewangan menggambarkan keikhlasan Abdullah bahawa beliau adalah penggantinya kelak.
"Ia melambangkan keyakinan Perdana Menteri pada saya sebab saya akan sentiasa bincang dan rujuk pada Perdana Menteri, khususnya berkaitan dengan ekonomi, hala tuju ekonomi dan keutamaan ekonomi, supaya dasar-dasar kerajaan lebih jelas dan tepat," kata Najib.
Ditanya mengenai penurunan harga minyak mentah dunia sekarang, Abdullah berkata: "Lagi turun lagi baik."
Harga minyak mentah dunia semalam mencatatkan US$92 setong.
Bagaimanapun Abdullah berkata penurunan harga minyak dunia itu juga akan menyebabkan pengurangan pendapatan Petronas.
Ditanya sama ada harga pengguna bagi petrol dan diesel akan dikurangkan, Abdullah berkata: "Tunggulah lain kali." _
Pertukaran portfolio yang diumumkan Perdana Menteri, Dato' Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi hari ini disifatkan sebagai satu lagi kaedah Abdullah menyelamatkan dirinya dan Umno.
Demikian kata Ketua Penerangan PAS, Mahfuz Omar ketika dihubungi Harakhdaily hari ini bagi mengulas senario kekalutan Abdullah merombak kabinet serta-merta.
Bernama melaporkan, Abdullah dan Dato' Seri Najib Tun Razak hari ini bertukar portfolio Menteri Pertahanan dan Kewangan sebagai sebahagian daripada proses penyerahan kuasa daripada Perdana Menteri kepada timbalannya itu pada Jun 2010.
Kedua-dua pemimpin juga komited dengan tempoh peralihan kuasa seperti yang ditetapkan sebelum ini, dan untuk pemilihan Umno pada Disember ini, Abdullah akan mempertahankan jawatan Presiden Umno dan Najib sebagai Timbalan Presiden parti.
Mengulas lanjut perkembangan itu, Mahfuz menyifatkan Abdullah merombak kabinet hanya kerana bimbang dengan senario dalaman Umno yang tidak menyebelahinya.
Malah pelan peralihan kuasa yang dirancang Abdullah-Najib tidak diterima kalangan Bahagian Umno, dan ini sedikit sebanyak menggoyahkan kedudukan Abdullah, katanya.
Mengapa Abdullah pegang pertahanan?
Selain itu ujar Mahfuz, terdapat kebimbangan dengan tindakan Abdullah mengambil portfolio pertahanan dari Najib kerana ini katanya mungkin untuk mempergunakan kementerian itu sebagai talian hayatnya.
"Saya bimbang dengan kedudukan Abdullah di Pertahanan yang memungkinkan penggunaan tentera jika keadaan mendesak tatkala mereka juga bimbang dengan senario perubahan kerajaan yang diusahakan Pakatan Rakyat," ujarnya.
Walaupun pada 16 September perubahan tidak berlaku, tetapi Abdullah sendiri bimbang dnegan ebarang kemungkinan dalam masa terdekat bahawa perubahan itu akan berlaku juga, kata Mahfuz.
Mahfuz juga menempelak kelemahan Abdullah yang baginya tidak bertanggungjawab terhadap portfolio lamanya sebagai Menteri kewangan selepas membentangkan Belanjawan 2009 yang belum sempat dibahas di Parlimen.
Tidak fikir hal rakyat
Akhirnya, kata Mahfuz Najib pula yang terpaksa menggalas tanggungjawab yang ditinggalkan Abdullah kerana kelemahan Abdullah sendiri.
"Ini satu signal jelas kepada rakyat bahawa kelemahan Abdullah sudah berada dikemuncaknya, dan perlu segera pertukaran kerajaan dilakukan, kata Mahfuz.
Mahfuz juga mempertikai keenganan kerajaan menurunkan harga minyak tatkala harga minyak dunia kini turun kepada USD 92 setong, dan janji kerajaan untuk menurunkan harga minyak hanya palsu.
"Ini semua kerana Abdullah tidak memikirkan hal rakyat, tetapi hanya fikir selamatkan diri sendiri," katanya.
Terdahulu, Abdullah yang bercakap pada sidang akhbar yang turut dihadiri oleh Najib di Putrajaya ini, berkata portfolio kewangan adalah penting dalam mengambil kira situasi ekonomi semasa dan ketidaktentuan ekonomi dunia.
Katanya beliau yakin Najib akan dapat melaksanakan peranannya yang amat penting itu terutama dalam memastikan ekonomi teguh dan kuat menghadapi cabaran.
Abdullah berkata dengan kedudukan Najib sebagai Menteri Kewangan kini, beliau (Najib) boleh memainkan peranan yang lebih penting apabila berada di New York untuk menghadiri Persidangan Pertubuhan Bangsa Bersatu (PBB) minggu depan.
Ini kerana, sebagai Menteri Kewangan, Najib akan dapat menemui pelabur dan pengurus dana semasa di New York nanti, kata Perdana Menteri.
Abdullah turut mengumumkan Najib kini mengambil alih jawatan Timbalan Pengerusi Khazanah sejajar dengan kedudukannya sebagai Menteri Kewangan. Jawatan itu sebelum ini disandang oleh Abdullah.
Ganti Abdullah kelak
Najib pula berkata langkah Perdana Menteri melantiknya sebagai Menteri Kewangan menggambarkan keikhlasan Abdullah bahawa beliau adalah penggantinya kelak.
"Ia melambangkan keyakinan Perdana Menteri pada saya sebab saya akan sentiasa bincang dan rujuk pada Perdana Menteri, khususnya berkaitan dengan ekonomi, hala tuju ekonomi dan keutamaan ekonomi, supaya dasar-dasar kerajaan lebih jelas dan tepat," kata Najib.
Ditanya mengenai penurunan harga minyak mentah dunia sekarang, Abdullah berkata: "Lagi turun lagi baik."
Harga minyak mentah dunia semalam mencatatkan US$92 setong.
Bagaimanapun Abdullah berkata penurunan harga minyak dunia itu juga akan menyebabkan pengurangan pendapatan Petronas.
Ditanya sama ada harga pengguna bagi petrol dan diesel akan dikurangkan, Abdullah berkata: "Tunggulah lain kali." _
Abdullah: SAPP is just a nuisance - Sun
PUTRAJAYA (Sept 17, 2008) :
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said it was apt that the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) left the Barisan Nasional (BN) as it was a only a nuisance to the coalition.
"They are only a problem in the party and a nuisance. Let them go, it's okay," he said when met at a breaking of the fast function with Cabinet ministers, menteris besar, chief ministers and deputy ministers at the home of Deputy Prime Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak here tonight.
He said this when asked to comment about the decision by the SAPP to pull out of the BN at its Supreme Council meeting in Kota Kinabalu today.
On the same issue, Najib said the decision by the SAPP was no surprise as it had been expected.
SAPP, he said, had actually hoped to be expelled from the BN but now had "jumped the gun".
"This development will not affect the BN in any way and we won't be doing a post-mortem on it," he said. -- BERNAMA
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said it was apt that the Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) left the Barisan Nasional (BN) as it was a only a nuisance to the coalition.
"They are only a problem in the party and a nuisance. Let them go, it's okay," he said when met at a breaking of the fast function with Cabinet ministers, menteris besar, chief ministers and deputy ministers at the home of Deputy Prime Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak here tonight.
He said this when asked to comment about the decision by the SAPP to pull out of the BN at its Supreme Council meeting in Kota Kinabalu today.
On the same issue, Najib said the decision by the SAPP was no surprise as it had been expected.
SAPP, he said, had actually hoped to be expelled from the BN but now had "jumped the gun".
"This development will not affect the BN in any way and we won't be doing a post-mortem on it," he said. -- BERNAMA
PM: Anwar a threat to economy and maybe safety - Sun
PUTRAJAYA (Sept 17, 2008):
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today described Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) de-facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as a "threat to the nation's economy and maybe safety".
He accused Anwar of deceiving the public by saying one thing and doing another, and of berating the country to the extent of discouraging investors.
Speaking to reporters after the cabinet meeting yesterday, Abdullah said: "We are facing inflation and in the midst of this, what Anwar is doing has resulted in fund managers discouraging investors from investing in Malaysia due to the uncertain political scenario.
"By talking about changing governments, Anwar has muddled the economy as some investors have been advised to stay away from the country for the next 10 years, and to wait and see where the country is headed. What he is doing has affected the government, the economy and workers."
Asked what he planned to do about this situation, Abdullah would only say that whatever he would do would be in the best interest of the country.
He said this would sending out trade missions to meet with investors.
"It’s not that we don’t have foreign direct investments (FDI) as many investors are coming in even now, and (Malaysia) is a preferred choice amongst many investors," he said. "The one saying that we are losing FDI is Anwar alone. He doesn’t read, he is ignorant about this."
He said it was Anwar’s character to tell people certain things and expect them to accept it.
He said Anwar's accusation that Malaysia has no competitive edge is untrue as Malaysia's competitiveness has improved from 23 to 19 (in the World Competitiveness Index).
"He is just exploiting people’s trust in him at the moment, and is doing nothing to help them -- even when he is out of the country, he puts down the nation," he said.
About Anwar’s pledge to turn the ailing economy around, and to reduce fuel prices, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said: "Anwar has failed to deliver a lot of his promises. Even though he knew he did not have the numbers, he continued to lie to the public that he would form the government on Sept 16, and has continued to lie to the public about the content of his letter (to Abdullah). So please don’t hold on to his promise too much."
Najib said as chairman of the investment committee, he knew the number of investments in the country this year was maybe more than last year. However, he is concerned that Anwar’s political game will affect the numbers coming in.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today described Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) de-facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim as a "threat to the nation's economy and maybe safety".He accused Anwar of deceiving the public by saying one thing and doing another, and of berating the country to the extent of discouraging investors.
Speaking to reporters after the cabinet meeting yesterday, Abdullah said: "We are facing inflation and in the midst of this, what Anwar is doing has resulted in fund managers discouraging investors from investing in Malaysia due to the uncertain political scenario.
"By talking about changing governments, Anwar has muddled the economy as some investors have been advised to stay away from the country for the next 10 years, and to wait and see where the country is headed. What he is doing has affected the government, the economy and workers."
Asked what he planned to do about this situation, Abdullah would only say that whatever he would do would be in the best interest of the country.
He said this would sending out trade missions to meet with investors.
"It’s not that we don’t have foreign direct investments (FDI) as many investors are coming in even now, and (Malaysia) is a preferred choice amongst many investors," he said. "The one saying that we are losing FDI is Anwar alone. He doesn’t read, he is ignorant about this."
He said it was Anwar’s character to tell people certain things and expect them to accept it.
He said Anwar's accusation that Malaysia has no competitive edge is untrue as Malaysia's competitiveness has improved from 23 to 19 (in the World Competitiveness Index).
"He is just exploiting people’s trust in him at the moment, and is doing nothing to help them -- even when he is out of the country, he puts down the nation," he said.
About Anwar’s pledge to turn the ailing economy around, and to reduce fuel prices, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said: "Anwar has failed to deliver a lot of his promises. Even though he knew he did not have the numbers, he continued to lie to the public that he would form the government on Sept 16, and has continued to lie to the public about the content of his letter (to Abdullah). So please don’t hold on to his promise too much."
Najib said as chairman of the investment committee, he knew the number of investments in the country this year was maybe more than last year. However, he is concerned that Anwar’s political game will affect the numbers coming in.
NIK AZIZ: Anwar will succeed in his plan - NST
KOTA BARU: Sept 17, 2008
Kelantan Men-teri Besar Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat is still confident that Parti Keadilan Rakyat adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will succeed in his plan to form the Federal Government.
Nik Aziz said the Sept 16 date was just a "technical" point when told that Anwar had failed to honour his claim that he would be in charge on this date.
"His failure today is nothing... He did not lie to the people as he had tried his best but his efforts were curtailed by others," Nik Aziz said.
"I support the move to form a new government at the federal level. I will pray that Anwar's effort will succeed."
Nik Aziz was responding to questions from reporters after launching the 18th anniversary of the Tabung Serambi Mekah.
On the opposition's move to get Barisan Nasional MPs to jump the party, he said it was allowed under democracy and followed regulations.
Kelantan Men-teri Besar Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat is still confident that Parti Keadilan Rakyat adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will succeed in his plan to form the Federal Government.Nik Aziz said the Sept 16 date was just a "technical" point when told that Anwar had failed to honour his claim that he would be in charge on this date.
"His failure today is nothing... He did not lie to the people as he had tried his best but his efforts were curtailed by others," Nik Aziz said.
"I support the move to form a new government at the federal level. I will pray that Anwar's effort will succeed."
Nik Aziz was responding to questions from reporters after launching the 18th anniversary of the Tabung Serambi Mekah.
On the opposition's move to get Barisan Nasional MPs to jump the party, he said it was allowed under democracy and followed regulations.
Teresa lodges report against Utusan, columnist and Khir Toyo - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 17, 2008 By FLORENCE A. SAMY and RASHITHA A. HAMID
ISA detainee Teresa Kok has lodged a police report against Utusan Melayu Sdn Bhd, its columnist Zaini Hassan and former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo for criminal defamation over the azan issue.
The Seputeh MP’s lawyer Sankara Nair lodged the police report on her behalf at the Travers Police Station at 4.10pm Wednesday after meeting her at the Bukit Aman police headquarters.
Teresa was accused of petitioning a mosque to reduce the volume for azan, something which she had vehemently denied previously. The two mosques had also stated she was not involved.
According to the police report, Zaini’s Sept 10 article in Utusan Malaysia entitled Azan, Jawi, JAIS, UiTM dan ba-alif-ba-ya referred to Kok and contained baseless accusations against her.
“I strongly deny all accusations contained in the article. It is not true,” she said in the report.
The accusations were also refuted by the Kinrara mosque committee chairman and Kota Raja MP Dr Siti Mariah had lodged a police report against Dr Mohd Khir on this issue, she said.
Attached to the police report were Zaini’s article and two articles from online news portal Malaysiakini (www.Malaysiakini.com) entitled Kok not involved in azan petition, says mosque and Report lodged against Khir Toyo for stirring up azan.
“I am making this police report to protect myself as an MP, a Selangor state assemblyman and as a Selangor state executive councillor.
“I believe one of the excuses for my ISA detention is in relation to that article and I place Utusan Malaysia, Zaini Hassan and Dr Mohd Khir Toyo responsible for my arrest,” she stated in the report.
Speaking to reporters Wednesday, Sankara said Kok had asked him to file more action and did not discount lodging more police reports including against the Government for Kok’s ISA detention.
On Monday, Kok filed a habeas corpus application in the High Court for her release citing that her arrest and detention under the Internal Security Act was unlawful.
Sankara said the court had fixed Sept 23 for hearing but said they would apply for Sept 22 instead as he had another case and Karpal Singh would be in East Malaysia on that date.
Besides Karpal Singh and Sankara, Kok would also be represented by Gobind Singh Deo and Param Cumaraswamy.
“Four of us have applied to see her this Friday as we need to prepare for the hearing. We will go all out to fight this case,” Sankara said.
On the letter of demand sent to Utusan Malaysia on Tuesday, Sankara said the daily sent them a letter on Wednesday asking for more time to reply.
Meanwhile, City CID Chief Senior Asst Comm II Ku Chin Wah confirmed that the police had received the report but declined to state which Section the report would be classified under.
ISA detainee Teresa Kok has lodged a police report against Utusan Melayu Sdn Bhd, its columnist Zaini Hassan and former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo for criminal defamation over the azan issue.
The Seputeh MP’s lawyer Sankara Nair lodged the police report on her behalf at the Travers Police Station at 4.10pm Wednesday after meeting her at the Bukit Aman police headquarters.
Teresa was accused of petitioning a mosque to reduce the volume for azan, something which she had vehemently denied previously. The two mosques had also stated she was not involved.
According to the police report, Zaini’s Sept 10 article in Utusan Malaysia entitled Azan, Jawi, JAIS, UiTM dan ba-alif-ba-ya referred to Kok and contained baseless accusations against her.
“I strongly deny all accusations contained in the article. It is not true,” she said in the report.
The accusations were also refuted by the Kinrara mosque committee chairman and Kota Raja MP Dr Siti Mariah had lodged a police report against Dr Mohd Khir on this issue, she said.
Attached to the police report were Zaini’s article and two articles from online news portal Malaysiakini (www.Malaysiakini.com) entitled Kok not involved in azan petition, says mosque and Report lodged against Khir Toyo for stirring up azan.
“I am making this police report to protect myself as an MP, a Selangor state assemblyman and as a Selangor state executive councillor.
“I believe one of the excuses for my ISA detention is in relation to that article and I place Utusan Malaysia, Zaini Hassan and Dr Mohd Khir Toyo responsible for my arrest,” she stated in the report.
Speaking to reporters Wednesday, Sankara said Kok had asked him to file more action and did not discount lodging more police reports including against the Government for Kok’s ISA detention.
On Monday, Kok filed a habeas corpus application in the High Court for her release citing that her arrest and detention under the Internal Security Act was unlawful.
Sankara said the court had fixed Sept 23 for hearing but said they would apply for Sept 22 instead as he had another case and Karpal Singh would be in East Malaysia on that date.
Besides Karpal Singh and Sankara, Kok would also be represented by Gobind Singh Deo and Param Cumaraswamy.
“Four of us have applied to see her this Friday as we need to prepare for the hearing. We will go all out to fight this case,” Sankara said.
On the letter of demand sent to Utusan Malaysia on Tuesday, Sankara said the daily sent them a letter on Wednesday asking for more time to reply.
Meanwhile, City CID Chief Senior Asst Comm II Ku Chin Wah confirmed that the police had received the report but declined to state which Section the report would be classified under.
‘Barisan will receive backlash from people over ISA detentions’ - Star
PASIR PUTEH: Sept 17, 2008
PAS is predicting that Barisan Nasional would receive a huge backlash from the people over the use of the Internal Security Act (ISA) on blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Seputeh MP Teresa Kok.
The backlash would manifest itself either at the next general election or perhaps in the internal elections of the Barisan component parties.
There would be a migration of support more intense than in the last general election, PAS vice-president Datuk Husam Musa claims.
”It has become a messy form of governance. Everything from economic to security management and the people are angry,” he said after presenting aid to two-year-old Asraff Abdul Malik who suffers from a heart ailment.
The lad resides at Kampung Kolam Tembusu near Selising here.
The entire integrity and credibility of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s cabinet and Government is now under threat because it has chosen to continue detaining the two individuals.
The police and Abdullah have also not come out with a convincing reason for detaining both and it is made worst when several cabinet ministers questioned why ISA was used now, Husam said.
Husam, who is also a senior state executive councillor, said to best illustrate it, the resignation of former de facto Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim was a telling factor for the Government to release the two detainees.
”We hope the Government is humanitarian on this aspect and gauge the sentiment on the ground about ISA. PAS would gain from any misgivings about the stature of a Barisan-led Government but we are more concerned about the fate of the two detainees for now,” Husam said. On Kuala Pilah MP Datuk Hasan Malek’s claims that he was offered money and a post as inducement to join the Opposition, Husam urged the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) to investigate the claims.
”We want to see who is lying on this matter. The ACA should be stern and punish those who offer and those who receive bribes.”
On Pakatan Rakyat’s efforts to oust Barisan and form the next government since the Sept 16 deadline has now passed, Husam said PAS is convinced that Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has the numbers and it is just a matter of time.
”It may not have been Sept 16 but it can be on any other date.”
The names of the defecting MPs are there and PAS would continue to back Anwar in his quest to topple the present Government by peaceful and diplomatic terms, paving a way for a coalition which truely represents the aspirations of the people, Husam said.
PAS is predicting that Barisan Nasional would receive a huge backlash from the people over the use of the Internal Security Act (ISA) on blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Seputeh MP Teresa Kok.
The backlash would manifest itself either at the next general election or perhaps in the internal elections of the Barisan component parties.
There would be a migration of support more intense than in the last general election, PAS vice-president Datuk Husam Musa claims.
”It has become a messy form of governance. Everything from economic to security management and the people are angry,” he said after presenting aid to two-year-old Asraff Abdul Malik who suffers from a heart ailment.
The lad resides at Kampung Kolam Tembusu near Selising here.
The entire integrity and credibility of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi’s cabinet and Government is now under threat because it has chosen to continue detaining the two individuals.
The police and Abdullah have also not come out with a convincing reason for detaining both and it is made worst when several cabinet ministers questioned why ISA was used now, Husam said.
Husam, who is also a senior state executive councillor, said to best illustrate it, the resignation of former de facto Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim was a telling factor for the Government to release the two detainees.
”We hope the Government is humanitarian on this aspect and gauge the sentiment on the ground about ISA. PAS would gain from any misgivings about the stature of a Barisan-led Government but we are more concerned about the fate of the two detainees for now,” Husam said. On Kuala Pilah MP Datuk Hasan Malek’s claims that he was offered money and a post as inducement to join the Opposition, Husam urged the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) to investigate the claims.
”We want to see who is lying on this matter. The ACA should be stern and punish those who offer and those who receive bribes.”
On Pakatan Rakyat’s efforts to oust Barisan and form the next government since the Sept 16 deadline has now passed, Husam said PAS is convinced that Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has the numbers and it is just a matter of time.
”It may not have been Sept 16 but it can be on any other date.”
The names of the defecting MPs are there and PAS would continue to back Anwar in his quest to topple the present Government by peaceful and diplomatic terms, paving a way for a coalition which truely represents the aspirations of the people, Husam said.
SAPP pulls out of Barisan - Star
KOTA KINABALU: Sept 17, 2008
Finally rebellious Sabah Progressive Party has pulled out of Barisan Nasional after a four-hour supreme council meeting.
Except for two opposing the move, 30 of the 32 who attended Wednesday’s meeting backed party chief Datuk Yong Teck Lee.
Yong said his party will remain independent but will work with anyone and be in consultation with various parties including Pakatan Rakyat.
“We are not applying to join Pakatan Rakyat until the time comes when SAPP is ready to be back in government,” he told reporters Wednesday after chairing the meeting at the party’s headquarters in Luyang here.
SAPP’s two MPs - Datuk Eric Enchin Majimbun (Sepangar) and Datuk Dr Chua Soon Bui (Tawau) - and two of its four assemblymen are with Yong. They are Melanie Chia (Luyang) and Datuk Liew Teck Chan (Likas).
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Raymond Tan, who is deputy president and Tanjung Papat assemblyman, with Elopura assemblymen Au Kam Wah have disassociated themselves from Yong.
Tan and SAPP vice-president Jimmy Wong opposed the pullout at the meeting while Au did not attend.
Walking out of the 2pm meeting half an hour before it ended at 5pm, Tan said that there was no proper basis to leave Barisan and the decision was not rational.
“I am from Sandakan and the signals from there are quite clear,” he said, adding that he would be meeting Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman to submit his resignation from the state cabinet.
Tan, who claimed that Au had resigned through a text message to Yong, said that he will be making a decision within the next 24 hours on his position in SAPP and whether he will be joining a Barisan component party or forming a new party.
When contacted, Au said that he has yet to tender his resignation letter and will announce what he intends to do on Thursday. SAPP joined Sabah Barisan Nasional in 1994.
Finally rebellious Sabah Progressive Party has pulled out of Barisan Nasional after a four-hour supreme council meeting.
Except for two opposing the move, 30 of the 32 who attended Wednesday’s meeting backed party chief Datuk Yong Teck Lee.
Yong said his party will remain independent but will work with anyone and be in consultation with various parties including Pakatan Rakyat.
“We are not applying to join Pakatan Rakyat until the time comes when SAPP is ready to be back in government,” he told reporters Wednesday after chairing the meeting at the party’s headquarters in Luyang here.
SAPP’s two MPs - Datuk Eric Enchin Majimbun (Sepangar) and Datuk Dr Chua Soon Bui (Tawau) - and two of its four assemblymen are with Yong. They are Melanie Chia (Luyang) and Datuk Liew Teck Chan (Likas).
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Raymond Tan, who is deputy president and Tanjung Papat assemblyman, with Elopura assemblymen Au Kam Wah have disassociated themselves from Yong.
Tan and SAPP vice-president Jimmy Wong opposed the pullout at the meeting while Au did not attend.
Walking out of the 2pm meeting half an hour before it ended at 5pm, Tan said that there was no proper basis to leave Barisan and the decision was not rational.
“I am from Sandakan and the signals from there are quite clear,” he said, adding that he would be meeting Chief Minister Datuk Musa Aman to submit his resignation from the state cabinet.
Tan, who claimed that Au had resigned through a text message to Yong, said that he will be making a decision within the next 24 hours on his position in SAPP and whether he will be joining a Barisan component party or forming a new party.
When contacted, Au said that he has yet to tender his resignation letter and will announce what he intends to do on Thursday. SAPP joined Sabah Barisan Nasional in 1994.
Yong's press statement in full - Malaysiakini
Sept 17, 08 5:10pm
The following is the press statement given by Sabah Progressive Party president Yong Teck Lee at 4.30pm after the party’s supreme council meeting at the Sapp headquarters in Kota Kinabalu.
1. The BN has lost its ‘BN spirit’. It was not that the people who did not want the BN, it was the BN who abandoned the people. In spite of repeated appeals from some BN members to other BN leaders to be more sensitive to the peoples' feelings, these leaders continue to treat the people with contempt. Perhaps after 50 years of uninterrupted government, some BN leaders have got it in their heads that they have a divine right to rule.
On March 8, the people had spoken out loud and clear. The BN paid a heavy price. But yet the BN refuses to learn. The ruthless increase in fuel prices on June 4 and the failure to tackle inflation and economic slowdown have dealt a severe blow to ordinary people. The recent blatant abuse of the ISA against an innocent journalist, an MP and a blogger only confirms that the BN leadership has not learned from their mistakes.
The shameful Taiwan trip by 49 BN MPs and the instigation of racial animosities have aggravated the collapse of confidence among the people and leaders, not only on the PM but the BN as well.
The PM's Budget 2009 was totally uninspiring and has already been discredited even before it was debated in Parliament. The BN has lost its moral authority to rule. Numerical majority in Parliament means little if the people no longer respect you.
3. Minister Zaid Ibrahim's resignation only confirms what many lawyers already knew that is that the prime minister and his government has never had the intention to reform the judiciary. Zaid's exposure about "the BN government being paralysed by internal strife and divisions" has also been known to many people in the BN. In many other countries, such paralysis of government will lead to fresh general elections.
4. The PM himself appeared drifting, not knowing what has been happening around him. Sapp has nothing personal against the PM and his family. None of the matters raised by Sapp concerns his person, his family, son, daughter, son-in-law or businesses. Sapp is only concerned about the issues affecting the country such as the need for good governance, the dangers of racial polarisation and injustice of economic imbalances to be tackled effectively.
5. Sapp hereby proudly dissociates ourselves from these shameful wrongdoings of the BN government. Sapp further believes that the BN is not capable of practicing good governance and non-racial politics; that BN has no intention in granting autonomy to Sabah, returning 20 percent of oil royalties and Labuan to Sabah, implement Borneonisation, review unfair federal laws and departments in Sabah, solve the illegal immigrants problems and remove social and economic imbalances.
The BN leadership even refused to recognise historical facts by denying Sept 16 as Malaysia Day, 45 years.
6. Sapp had only wanted to see that the legitimate rights of Sabah and the unfairness suffered by Malaysians in Sabah be given due attention with results. The BN must realise that, if not for Sabah and Sarawak, BN would be in the opposition today. But instead of sincerely working to solve the issues raised by Sapp, the BN has chosen to embark on a course of action to destroy Sapp.
The Sapp supreme council hereby condemns the attempts of BN operatives to destroy Sapp through divide-and-rule tactics and by abusing the economic resources of the BN state and federal governments aimed at instigating Sapp members and leaders to destroy Sapp.
7. As a matter of fact, by deliberately excluding Sapp from four consecutive meetings of the Dewan Tertinggi and two meetings of the management committee ever since the announcement of no confidence on the prime minister on June 18, the BN has effectively terminated the membership of Sapp. The Sapp supreme council hereby declares that Sapp is no longer a member of the Barisan Nasional coalition of parties.
8. Sapp is now free from the BN. Sapp shall henceforth use this freedom to pursue our autonomous political path to fulfill our mission to establish a trustworthy government and a progressive, just and harmonious society. We are no longer subservient to BN. We now have the master key to our own house. We shall build a brighter future for our people and the younger generations to come.
9. Sapp members who hold political appointments in the executive branch of government shall relinquish their posts by giving the due notice under the constitution and relevant rules and regulations, starting at the cabinet level.
10. With our experienced MPs, Aduns and other party colleagues, Sapp shall provide quality opposition in and outside the Parliament and State Legislative Assembly until the time comes when Sapp is ready to be back in government.
11. I call on our members to be brave. Do not despair. Remember that one of our party culture seven values is resilience. From the day we join the party, we knew that things can get very rough for us. Yes, together we shall overcome this difficult period because the people are with us. With the strong encouragement and support of the people, Sapp will succeed in our struggle.
12. In view of the current fasting month of Ramadan, Sapp shall only embark on a series of political activities two weeks after Hari Raya. We shall plan a road map to victory in future elections. We shall elaborate how we plan to achieve the eight-points declaration, namely:
(i) Good governance and non-racial politics
(ii) Autonomy for Sabah
(iii) 20 percent oil royalties
(iv) Return of Labuan
(v) Review of unfair laws and detrimental departments
(vi) Borneonisation of the federal civil service
(vii) Solution to the illegal immigrants issue
(viii) Redress economic and social imbalances
The following is the press statement given by Sabah Progressive Party president Yong Teck Lee at 4.30pm after the party’s supreme council meeting at the Sapp headquarters in Kota Kinabalu.
1. The BN has lost its ‘BN spirit’. It was not that the people who did not want the BN, it was the BN who abandoned the people. In spite of repeated appeals from some BN members to other BN leaders to be more sensitive to the peoples' feelings, these leaders continue to treat the people with contempt. Perhaps after 50 years of uninterrupted government, some BN leaders have got it in their heads that they have a divine right to rule.
On March 8, the people had spoken out loud and clear. The BN paid a heavy price. But yet the BN refuses to learn. The ruthless increase in fuel prices on June 4 and the failure to tackle inflation and economic slowdown have dealt a severe blow to ordinary people. The recent blatant abuse of the ISA against an innocent journalist, an MP and a blogger only confirms that the BN leadership has not learned from their mistakes.
The shameful Taiwan trip by 49 BN MPs and the instigation of racial animosities have aggravated the collapse of confidence among the people and leaders, not only on the PM but the BN as well.
The PM's Budget 2009 was totally uninspiring and has already been discredited even before it was debated in Parliament. The BN has lost its moral authority to rule. Numerical majority in Parliament means little if the people no longer respect you.
3. Minister Zaid Ibrahim's resignation only confirms what many lawyers already knew that is that the prime minister and his government has never had the intention to reform the judiciary. Zaid's exposure about "the BN government being paralysed by internal strife and divisions" has also been known to many people in the BN. In many other countries, such paralysis of government will lead to fresh general elections.
4. The PM himself appeared drifting, not knowing what has been happening around him. Sapp has nothing personal against the PM and his family. None of the matters raised by Sapp concerns his person, his family, son, daughter, son-in-law or businesses. Sapp is only concerned about the issues affecting the country such as the need for good governance, the dangers of racial polarisation and injustice of economic imbalances to be tackled effectively.
5. Sapp hereby proudly dissociates ourselves from these shameful wrongdoings of the BN government. Sapp further believes that the BN is not capable of practicing good governance and non-racial politics; that BN has no intention in granting autonomy to Sabah, returning 20 percent of oil royalties and Labuan to Sabah, implement Borneonisation, review unfair federal laws and departments in Sabah, solve the illegal immigrants problems and remove social and economic imbalances.
The BN leadership even refused to recognise historical facts by denying Sept 16 as Malaysia Day, 45 years.
6. Sapp had only wanted to see that the legitimate rights of Sabah and the unfairness suffered by Malaysians in Sabah be given due attention with results. The BN must realise that, if not for Sabah and Sarawak, BN would be in the opposition today. But instead of sincerely working to solve the issues raised by Sapp, the BN has chosen to embark on a course of action to destroy Sapp.
The Sapp supreme council hereby condemns the attempts of BN operatives to destroy Sapp through divide-and-rule tactics and by abusing the economic resources of the BN state and federal governments aimed at instigating Sapp members and leaders to destroy Sapp.
7. As a matter of fact, by deliberately excluding Sapp from four consecutive meetings of the Dewan Tertinggi and two meetings of the management committee ever since the announcement of no confidence on the prime minister on June 18, the BN has effectively terminated the membership of Sapp. The Sapp supreme council hereby declares that Sapp is no longer a member of the Barisan Nasional coalition of parties.
8. Sapp is now free from the BN. Sapp shall henceforth use this freedom to pursue our autonomous political path to fulfill our mission to establish a trustworthy government and a progressive, just and harmonious society. We are no longer subservient to BN. We now have the master key to our own house. We shall build a brighter future for our people and the younger generations to come.
9. Sapp members who hold political appointments in the executive branch of government shall relinquish their posts by giving the due notice under the constitution and relevant rules and regulations, starting at the cabinet level.
10. With our experienced MPs, Aduns and other party colleagues, Sapp shall provide quality opposition in and outside the Parliament and State Legislative Assembly until the time comes when Sapp is ready to be back in government.
11. I call on our members to be brave. Do not despair. Remember that one of our party culture seven values is resilience. From the day we join the party, we knew that things can get very rough for us. Yes, together we shall overcome this difficult period because the people are with us. With the strong encouragement and support of the people, Sapp will succeed in our struggle.
12. In view of the current fasting month of Ramadan, Sapp shall only embark on a series of political activities two weeks after Hari Raya. We shall plan a road map to victory in future elections. We shall elaborate how we plan to achieve the eight-points declaration, namely:
(i) Good governance and non-racial politics
(ii) Autonomy for Sabah
(iii) 20 percent oil royalties
(iv) Return of Labuan
(v) Review of unfair laws and detrimental departments
(vi) Borneonisation of the federal civil service
(vii) Solution to the illegal immigrants issue
(viii) Redress economic and social imbalances
Sapp pulls out of BN, stays independent - Malaysiakini
Sep 17, 08 4:51pm
The Sabah Progressive Party (Sapp) has decided to pull out of the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition to become an independent party.
The party’s supreme council, which met this afternoon, has opted to be an opposition party but will not join Pakatan Rakyat for now.
"The Sapp supreme council has declared that the party is no longer a member of the Barisan Nasional coalition," party president Yong Teck Lee (centre in photo) at a packed press conference at 4.30pm after the council meeting.
"We will be independent at the moment and provide quality opposition in and outside the parliament, as well as the state assembly, until the time comes when Sapp is ready to be back in the government."
The party has two parliamentarians and four state assemblypersons.
The two MPs are Eric Enchin Majimbun (Sepanggar) and Dr Chua Soon Bui (Tawau), while the state representatives are Tan (Tanjong Papat), assistant state finance minister Melanie Chia (Luyang), Au Kam Wah (Elopura) and Liew Teck Chan (Likas).
sapp mps and state assembly reps sabah 160608"The BN has lost its moral authority to rule. Numerical majority in Parliament means little if the people no longer respect you," he said.
"Sapp members who hold political appointments in the executive branch of government shall relinquish their posts by giving the due notice under the constitution and relevant rules and regulations, starting at the cabinet level."
An upset Sapp deputy president Raymond Tan, who walked out of the council meeting, said he would resign as Sabah deputy chief minister and state minister for infrastructure development.
According to Tan, he has yet to decide on whether he would quit the party, but said that Youth chief Au - who did not attend the meeting - has already resigned.
More news at: www.malaysiakini.com
The Sabah Progressive Party (Sapp) has decided to pull out of the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition to become an independent party.
The party’s supreme council, which met this afternoon, has opted to be an opposition party but will not join Pakatan Rakyat for now.
"The Sapp supreme council has declared that the party is no longer a member of the Barisan Nasional coalition," party president Yong Teck Lee (centre in photo) at a packed press conference at 4.30pm after the council meeting."We will be independent at the moment and provide quality opposition in and outside the parliament, as well as the state assembly, until the time comes when Sapp is ready to be back in the government."
The party has two parliamentarians and four state assemblypersons.
The two MPs are Eric Enchin Majimbun (Sepanggar) and Dr Chua Soon Bui (Tawau), while the state representatives are Tan (Tanjong Papat), assistant state finance minister Melanie Chia (Luyang), Au Kam Wah (Elopura) and Liew Teck Chan (Likas).
sapp mps and state assembly reps sabah 160608"The BN has lost its moral authority to rule. Numerical majority in Parliament means little if the people no longer respect you," he said.
"Sapp members who hold political appointments in the executive branch of government shall relinquish their posts by giving the due notice under the constitution and relevant rules and regulations, starting at the cabinet level."
An upset Sapp deputy president Raymond Tan, who walked out of the council meeting, said he would resign as Sabah deputy chief minister and state minister for infrastructure development.
According to Tan, he has yet to decide on whether he would quit the party, but said that Youth chief Au - who did not attend the meeting - has already resigned.
More news at: www.malaysiakini.com
Another round of ISA for Anwar? - Malaysiakini
Sept 17, 08 3:40pm
Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has left political observers wondering if Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim could once again be detained under the Internal Security Act.
The premier issued a warning that appear to indicate the possibility of an ISA arrest for the maverick politician at press conference at Putrajaya this afternoon to announce a reshuffle of cabinet portfolios.
abdullah ahmad badawi najib razak pc change portfolio 170908 06'He has become a threat to the economy and possibly (national) security," he said.
This in itself provides sufficient grounds for the authorities to invoke the tough security law, which provides detention without trial against Anwar.
And when asked what action the government would take against him, Abdullah refused to reveal his cards, saying: "I will not indicate what plan I will take, what I do will be in the best interests of the people and the country."
"Because of Anwar's actions, there are fund managers who have reported that Malaysia is purportedly no longer a good place for investment because of the unstable political climate."
Abdullah said the opposition leader has lied a lot about the country's economic status, even claiming that there is no Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) coming in.
On the contrary, the premier said FDI is still flowing in and Malaysia is popular among investors.
"Anwar wants to destroy the country and exploit the people’s trust and tarnish the country’s image abroad."
Using the ISA against Anwar would undoubtedly have severe repercussions but such a move would not come as a surprise after three individuals, including an opposition politician, were nabbed under the draconian law last Friday.
James Chin, a political analyst from Monash University's campus in Kuala Lumpur, said Abdullah's comments were a clear warning that Anwar could face arrest under ISA.
"If they arrest Anwar under ISA, it will not be accepted by both Malaysians and the international community," he told AFP.
More news at: Malaysiakini
Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has left political observers wondering if Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim could once again be detained under the Internal Security Act.The premier issued a warning that appear to indicate the possibility of an ISA arrest for the maverick politician at press conference at Putrajaya this afternoon to announce a reshuffle of cabinet portfolios.
abdullah ahmad badawi najib razak pc change portfolio 170908 06'He has become a threat to the economy and possibly (national) security," he said.
This in itself provides sufficient grounds for the authorities to invoke the tough security law, which provides detention without trial against Anwar.
And when asked what action the government would take against him, Abdullah refused to reveal his cards, saying: "I will not indicate what plan I will take, what I do will be in the best interests of the people and the country."
"Because of Anwar's actions, there are fund managers who have reported that Malaysia is purportedly no longer a good place for investment because of the unstable political climate."
Abdullah said the opposition leader has lied a lot about the country's economic status, even claiming that there is no Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) coming in.
On the contrary, the premier said FDI is still flowing in and Malaysia is popular among investors.
"Anwar wants to destroy the country and exploit the people’s trust and tarnish the country’s image abroad."
Using the ISA against Anwar would undoubtedly have severe repercussions but such a move would not come as a surprise after three individuals, including an opposition politician, were nabbed under the draconian law last Friday.
James Chin, a political analyst from Monash University's campus in Kuala Lumpur, said Abdullah's comments were a clear warning that Anwar could face arrest under ISA.
"If they arrest Anwar under ISA, it will not be accepted by both Malaysians and the international community," he told AFP.
More news at: Malaysiakini
Another blogger arrested - Malaysiakini
Sept 17, 08 6:24pm
The police have arrested another blogger, Syed Azidi Syed Abdul Aziz, in Kota Baru this afternoon.
According to PAS parliamentarian Husam Musa, the blogger (kickdefella.wordpress.com) was picked up from his house.
kickdefella syed azidi syed abdul azizSyed Azidi, who works for the state government, was detained at about 5pm by a three-member plainclothes police team. His laptop was also confiscated.
Checks with his wife Bariah Ishak revealed that the popular blogger was arrested under the Sedition Act.
"The police said my husband was arrested based on a police report filed in Kuala Lumpur," she said.
Syed Azidi, according to the police, will be brought to Kuala Lumpur.
Upside down flag
In a posting on his blog dated Aug 23, Syed Azidi (under the title Siasat Kickdefella Dibawah Akta Hasutan) had written that a pro-Umno website by a minister was calling for him to be investigated under the Sedition Act.
The blogger courted controversy recently after launching an online campaign to fly the Malaysian flag upside down.
The campaign had attracted the attention of the prime minister who said that the move was "despicable".
"This is uncouth behaviour, showing no respect at all for the national flag. What is there to be angry with the Malaysian flag?" he was quoted as saying by Bernama.
"If there are Malaysians who want to take up the idea that came from the pro-opposition blogger, they are insulting this important national symbol (flag)," he added.
The police have arrested another blogger, Syed Azidi Syed Abdul Aziz, in Kota Baru this afternoon.
According to PAS parliamentarian Husam Musa, the blogger (kickdefella.wordpress.com) was picked up from his house.
kickdefella syed azidi syed abdul azizSyed Azidi, who works for the state government, was detained at about 5pm by a three-member plainclothes police team. His laptop was also confiscated.Checks with his wife Bariah Ishak revealed that the popular blogger was arrested under the Sedition Act.
"The police said my husband was arrested based on a police report filed in Kuala Lumpur," she said.
Syed Azidi, according to the police, will be brought to Kuala Lumpur.
Upside down flag
In a posting on his blog dated Aug 23, Syed Azidi (under the title Siasat Kickdefella Dibawah Akta Hasutan) had written that a pro-Umno website by a minister was calling for him to be investigated under the Sedition Act.
The blogger courted controversy recently after launching an online campaign to fly the Malaysian flag upside down.
The campaign had attracted the attention of the prime minister who said that the move was "despicable".
"This is uncouth behaviour, showing no respect at all for the national flag. What is there to be angry with the Malaysian flag?" he was quoted as saying by Bernama.
"If there are Malaysians who want to take up the idea that came from the pro-opposition blogger, they are insulting this important national symbol (flag)," he added.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
MCA: Release Kok, RPK from ISA - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 16, 2008
The MCA has called for Seputeh MP Teresa Kok and Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin to be released from their arrests under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting said Kok and Raja Petra should be investigated under other laws and be charged in court if there was evidence.
“To prevent possible future abuse of the ISA, the MCA central committee calls for a comprehensive review of the ISA so that it will apply strictly to cases relating to terrorism and subversive elements.
“There should also be a mechanism for checks and balances in the use of the ISA,” he said after chairing a six-hour meeting at Wisma MCA here on Tuesday.
Ong also said that the arrest of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng for 18 hours under the ISA was totally uncalled for and the explanation given for her detention was unacceptable.
The MCA has called for Seputeh MP Teresa Kok and Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin to be released from their arrests under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting said Kok and Raja Petra should be investigated under other laws and be charged in court if there was evidence.
“To prevent possible future abuse of the ISA, the MCA central committee calls for a comprehensive review of the ISA so that it will apply strictly to cases relating to terrorism and subversive elements.
“There should also be a mechanism for checks and balances in the use of the ISA,” he said after chairing a six-hour meeting at Wisma MCA here on Tuesday.
Ong also said that the arrest of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng for 18 hours under the ISA was totally uncalled for and the explanation given for her detention was unacceptable.
PKR to break 'good news' - NST
PUTRAJAYA: Sept 16, 2008
Pakatan Rakyat reps (from left) Tian Chua, Elizabeth Wong and Saifuddin Nasution at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport after returning from Taiwan yesterday
Pakatan Rakyat has insisted that it will take over the Federal Government.
Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) information head Tian Chua, who returned yesterday after following a group of Barisan Nasional backbenchers to Taiwan, claimed his mission to get a final confirmation from BN members of parliament to cross over to the opposition "was accomplished".
"We believe that we can announce the good news to the people either today (yesterday) or tomorrow morning."
However, he said, it was up to the party leadership on when or how the announcement would be made.
Tian Chua said he was forced to follow the group to Taiwan so he could keep in touch with them.
"We just wanted a reassurance that they were still interested in forming a new government with us.
"They are all sticking to their earlier commitment (to join Pakatan Rakyat) and no one has backtracked on his word."
Pressed for details of the meetings, Chua would only say that he met the MPs during a "long" dinner.
He refused to name the MPs or say if the meeting was done in groups or individually.
"We only had a few hours but our meeting was successful and we were given a clear indication by the MPs that they were happy to join Pakatan Rakyat."
Asked if he thought it was right for Pakatan Rakyat to promote the crossover culture, he sidestepped the issue opting instead to criticise the government on the use of the Internal Security Act.
Pakatan Rakyat reps (from left) Tian Chua, Elizabeth Wong and Saifuddin Nasution at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport after returning from Taiwan yesterdayPakatan Rakyat has insisted that it will take over the Federal Government.
Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) information head Tian Chua, who returned yesterday after following a group of Barisan Nasional backbenchers to Taiwan, claimed his mission to get a final confirmation from BN members of parliament to cross over to the opposition "was accomplished".
"We believe that we can announce the good news to the people either today (yesterday) or tomorrow morning."
However, he said, it was up to the party leadership on when or how the announcement would be made.
Tian Chua said he was forced to follow the group to Taiwan so he could keep in touch with them.
"We just wanted a reassurance that they were still interested in forming a new government with us.
"They are all sticking to their earlier commitment (to join Pakatan Rakyat) and no one has backtracked on his word."
Pressed for details of the meetings, Chua would only say that he met the MPs during a "long" dinner.
He refused to name the MPs or say if the meeting was done in groups or individually.
"We only had a few hours but our meeting was successful and we were given a clear indication by the MPs that they were happy to join Pakatan Rakyat."
Asked if he thought it was right for Pakatan Rakyat to promote the crossover culture, he sidestepped the issue opting instead to criticise the government on the use of the Internal Security Act.
DAP stalwart Kit Siang speaks at 20,000-strong rally!
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More news at: Malaysiakini
More news at: Malaysiakini
Assemblyman lodges report against Khir Toyo - Star
PETALING JAYA: ept 16, 2008 By NURBAITI HAMDAN and CHEOK LI PENG
Kampung Tunku assemblyman Lau Weng San has lodged a police report against former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo for allegedly making a false statement on his blog (www.drkhir.blogspot.com).
The contents of the blog posting was subsequently published in a Malay daily on Sept 9.
Lau said Dr Khir’s statement and the report from the daily accused Seputeh MP Teresa Kok for being responsible in spearheading a campaign to ban the broadcast of the azan (Muslim call to prayer) on loudspeakers.
He lodged the police report at the police headquarters here about 11am Tuesday.
Lau said that the mosques had denied Kok’s involvement in the allegation.
“This whole misunderstanding was even explained by a blogger (pembelamelayu.blogspot.com) and yet Dr Khir paid no attention to it and continued to slander Kok,” he said.
Petaling Jaya OCPD Asst Comm Arjunaidi Mohamed confirmed that a report was lodged by Lau.
This is the second police report lodged against Khir Toyo.
On Sept 11, Kota Raja MP Dr Siti Mariah Mahmood lodged a police report against Khir Toyo on the same matter.
Kampung Tunku assemblyman Lau Weng San has lodged a police report against former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo for allegedly making a false statement on his blog (www.drkhir.blogspot.com).
The contents of the blog posting was subsequently published in a Malay daily on Sept 9.
Lau said Dr Khir’s statement and the report from the daily accused Seputeh MP Teresa Kok for being responsible in spearheading a campaign to ban the broadcast of the azan (Muslim call to prayer) on loudspeakers.
He lodged the police report at the police headquarters here about 11am Tuesday.
Lau said that the mosques had denied Kok’s involvement in the allegation.
“This whole misunderstanding was even explained by a blogger (pembelamelayu.blogspot.com) and yet Dr Khir paid no attention to it and continued to slander Kok,” he said.
Petaling Jaya OCPD Asst Comm Arjunaidi Mohamed confirmed that a report was lodged by Lau.
This is the second police report lodged against Khir Toyo.
On Sept 11, Kota Raja MP Dr Siti Mariah Mahmood lodged a police report against Khir Toyo on the same matter.
Anwar claims change may happen in two to three days - Sun
PETALING JAYA (Sept 16, 2008)
Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) de facto leader and Permatang Pauh MP Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim claimed tonight the Pakatan Rakyat (PR) "has the numbers" to form the government and indicated that this may happen "within the next two to three days".
He also claimed that PR leaders have written to the prime minister to "seek peaceful and orderly power transition".
Speaking to about 15,000 people at the PR Malaysia Day celebration at Kelana Jaya Stadium, Anwar declared: “We confirm that we have the numbers for 916 (Sept 16) tonight, and tomorrow it is d-day. We are ready to form the government.
“We want the transition to be done peacefully, and the PR leaders have written a joint letter to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi seeking an immediate meeting and asking to address two urgent matters -- to release all political detainees and to discuss the smooth transition of power."
Anwar said "this is a change the Malaysian people have been pushing for".
He criticised the recent detentions under the Internal Security Act (ISA) and praised de facto law minister Datuk Zaid brahim for "taking a stand against the detentions by stepping down from his position".
Anwar also asked all Malaysians to fly the Malaysian flag today and wear red arm bands to show their solidarity.
PAS secretary-general Datuk Kamaruddin Jaffar told the rally: “We hope that after 51 years of independence and the 45 years after the formation of Malaysia, there will be changes with the formation of the new government.”
(From left) Khalid, Dr Seri Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Anwar, Kit Siang and Guan Eng. Pix courtesy of The Star
DAP veteran and Ipoh Timor MP Lim Kit Siang said Malaysia Day should reflect the freedom of the country but this was not so with the detention of the three people under the ISA -- Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, and Sin Chew Daily journalist Tan Hoon Cheng, who was released a day later.
Petaling Jaya police chief ACP Arjunaidi Mohammad said the rally went on smoothly and there was no untoward incident, except for cases of vehicles obstructing traffic, which were issued with summonses.
Present at the rally were Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim, Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, Keadilan president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Ismail, Selangor executive councillors Elizabeth Wong, Dr Halimah Ali, Rodziah Ismail, Ronnie Liu and Dr Xavier Jayakumar, and representatives from several NGOs.
Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) de facto leader and Permatang Pauh MP Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim claimed tonight the Pakatan Rakyat (PR) "has the numbers" to form the government and indicated that this may happen "within the next two to three days".He also claimed that PR leaders have written to the prime minister to "seek peaceful and orderly power transition".
Speaking to about 15,000 people at the PR Malaysia Day celebration at Kelana Jaya Stadium, Anwar declared: “We confirm that we have the numbers for 916 (Sept 16) tonight, and tomorrow it is d-day. We are ready to form the government.
“We want the transition to be done peacefully, and the PR leaders have written a joint letter to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi seeking an immediate meeting and asking to address two urgent matters -- to release all political detainees and to discuss the smooth transition of power."
Anwar said "this is a change the Malaysian people have been pushing for".
He criticised the recent detentions under the Internal Security Act (ISA) and praised de facto law minister Datuk Zaid brahim for "taking a stand against the detentions by stepping down from his position".
Anwar also asked all Malaysians to fly the Malaysian flag today and wear red arm bands to show their solidarity.
PAS secretary-general Datuk Kamaruddin Jaffar told the rally: “We hope that after 51 years of independence and the 45 years after the formation of Malaysia, there will be changes with the formation of the new government.”
(From left) Khalid, Dr Seri Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Anwar, Kit Siang and Guan Eng. Pix courtesy of The StarDAP veteran and Ipoh Timor MP Lim Kit Siang said Malaysia Day should reflect the freedom of the country but this was not so with the detention of the three people under the ISA -- Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, and Sin Chew Daily journalist Tan Hoon Cheng, who was released a day later.
Petaling Jaya police chief ACP Arjunaidi Mohammad said the rally went on smoothly and there was no untoward incident, except for cases of vehicles obstructing traffic, which were issued with summonses.
Present at the rally were Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim, Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, Keadilan president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Ismail, Selangor executive councillors Elizabeth Wong, Dr Halimah Ali, Rodziah Ismail, Ronnie Liu and Dr Xavier Jayakumar, and representatives from several NGOs.
Zaid sticks to quit decision, says recent arrests under ISA was "the final straw" - Sun
PUTRAJAYA (Sept 16, 2008) : By Husna Yusop
Umno maverick Senator Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has decided to stick to his decision to quit as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department and de facto Law Minister, saying the recent arrests under the Internal Security Act was the "last straw".
Six months after being handpicked by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to spearhead judicial reforms, Zaid told a packed press conference yesterday his efforts had met with "a brickwall" and he now considered himself "a failure".
He revealed that his proposals met with "a lot of opposition from the party as well as some cabinet colleagues" who accused him of not being a genuine fighter for his race and religion, "as if I am less Malay".
He had tried to bring forward ideas and proposals for a more transparent judiciary, better selection of judges, proper constitutional recognition for the power of the court and reform of the police.
"I suggested them all but I only succeeded in giving out a small amount of ex-gratia to the sacked judges. So, I admit my failure," he added.
He also described himself as "a man with responsibility (but) with no authority".
On top of that, he said he was also harshly criticised in the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara with calls for him to be sacked as he has not done much to defend his nation, adding "I have gone through a lot."
He said since it was difficult for many to accept his views on the reforms and changes, he decided not to continue to be a burden to Abdullah who himself has been facing a lot of pressure lately.
"Let the Prime Minister focus on problems which he needs to overcome or settle before the coming general assembly. Let not me be the problem. So I decided, best for me, the party, country, for all and for the PM, let me resign.
In his 40-minute press conference, Zaid spoke frankly on a number of related issues. They are:
> On the prime minister's suggestion that he take a two-week leave.
"I thank him, but I am not tired, I am just disappointed. So I don’t want to take leave and my decision to resign remains. I will resign," he said, adding his last day in the office was yesterday.
> On the ISA arrest of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng
"I did not expect this. That our government would find journalists a threat to the country? How can a journalist be a security threat? I cannot understand this. But, I am a minister, so I am responsible. In terms of ISA usage, for example, the police said we detain first, then only we investigate. This is a strange principle. I don’t understand this. You cannot detain people just because you want to investigate."
> On rule of law, transparency
"I have failed to convince those in authority, in position of power, to effect those changes about how this government should move forward. I believe in the basic principles that this country respects all rights, all people, all citizens.
"This country is for all. There is no room for discrimination. This country is about rule of law, about transparent process. These are the things that we need to change. If you don’t subscribe to this or you just pay lip service to this principle, it is difficult to translate that into a policy."
> On accusations that he was working against his own race
He said he sincerely felt the Malays, the country and the people would be better off with the policies that he had thought of. "It has never crossed my mind to deny or bring disadvantage to my own religion or race."
On the Conversion to Islam forum organised by the Bar Council whereby he admitted being condemned by many for not standing up for Islam, Zaid said the issue was not about religion but about humans, concerning problems related to marriage and divorce.
"I cannot translate or make them understand this basic principle that this country is for all. We need to respect equal rights for all people, all races, as provided in the constitution. I feel that it is not difficult to understand this basic principle. And I feel a bit sad that this becomes a problem."
> On whether he was giving up easily
"No, this is not about giving up. This is paving the way for a transformation in a way that I hope will wake up people, will result in some changes (from the party or his cabinet colleages). That’s my hope. That would be good enough."
> On his senatorship
He said he will remain a senator as "it would be nice to talk sometimes in the Senate, to give my views on public issues. I love this country very much and would like to do what I can. I am not about to disappear. I still got some years to contribute to this country, but I just have to play a different role."
Question and answer session:
Q. You have said before, you will keep on trying despite the obstacles in initiating reforms. Why give up now?
Zaid: I was looking for some signs of change, some positive developments to give some sort of assurance, confidence but obviously not. I think if I stayed longer you would have asked me, why are you staying so long, yet you do nothing about this? I think six months is good.
Q. Are you disappointed with the Prime Minister?
Zaid: He is a nice man.
Q. Has he (PM) failed to initiate reforms?
Zaid: He has other things to deal with that I may not know of. Remember, he is the president of the party, I am just an ordinary guy. I don’t have to worry about too many things but he may have other things to worry about.
Q. Do you think he support your policy reforms?
Zaid: I think, within the constraints that he got, he supports it, yes. But he got severe constraints. That’s how I sense it.
Q. Would you remain in Umno or join the opposition?
Zaid: It is a very difficult question because on one hand, Umno hasn’t treated me so well over the years. I got suspended for things I didn’t do, my own nomination in Kota Baru has got into trouble, a lot of people criticised me. Most of those who criticised me about the reforms are actually from Umno. So, I do have some problems.
But at the same time, I also don’t know PKR well, I don’t know the leaders. So, it’s too early to say. But, I have an open mind and I am in no hurry to make a decision.
I have not made any decision to join anybody. I am just saying I have to do this (resign) because I hope it will trigger some good things, it will trigger some changes on the part of the people in power, it will trigger some self-reflection on their part and I hope the PM will overcome his challenges without the burden that I carry.
Q. Have you been courted by them?
Zaid: No, I was not courted but I have friends all over the place who call up, things like that, but these are things that happen to everybody.
Q. Will you go back to practice?
Zaid: I don’t think so. I want to start a foundation to help build closer relations among people of this country. I think race discrimination, race prejudice, race relations is very bad. When I was young, we had a much closer racial relations. Today, we are very divided.
Q. If the government abolishes the ISA, would you make a comeback?
Zaid: I have told the Prime Minister, Sir, you handle your whatever issues, and then, if after all that is settled, if you feel you still want me to be of service to the country, yes. I am not leaving out anything. But of course, to ensure I won’t have the same problems, I must also be satisfied that there are enough people in the cabinet, in the supreme council and in the BN, that support the changes.
Q. Reform is quite impossible in Malaysia as the people are not supportive. How?
Zaid: They could be more supportive but there has to be a transformation at the political level.
Q. Do you think Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim would bring about reforms?
Zaid: That’s a hypothetical question. I just hope that anyone who forms the government - be it Abdullah, or Najib, or Tengku Razaleigh (Hamzah), or (Tan Sri) Muhyiddin (Yassin), or Anwar as the PM, I don’t care who - I just want the transformation to take place. That’s my hope.
Q. Was it a mistake to accept Abdullah’s invitation to become a minister?
Zaid: No, that was not a mistake. I would not know what it’s like if I didn’t join.
Q. Don’t you think the next person who comes in will face the same obstacles and therefore it is better for someone with your passion to continue with the fight for reforms?
Zaid: That’s your view. I have to endure these things. I have come to a conclusion, maybe somebody else is more acceptable. My character or the way I talk may upset people. Maybe some other things can be done by other people. You can’t say just because Zaid Ibrahim is not around it can’t be done. It can be done if the political will is there.
Q. What is the single thing Abdullah can do to bring about positive changes?
Zaid: The one single thing is to trust the people of this country - all races. If you feel, you can’t bring yourself to that level of trust and acceptance of certain principles, you will always worry whether a particular policy will benefit this group or that group. You will worry whether it will upset certain benefits or privileges that you have. If you have that sort of thinking, thinking too much about being a "pejuang bangsa" (one who fights for the race), it is difficult to have a policy that reaches out to everybody, that applies to all. That psychological barrier has to be overcome. We have to trust we are one people who want to build one country.
Q. What do you have to say to your cabinet colleagues?
Zaid: To my cab colleague, no hard feelings. Some of them are very fine gentleme. I have close rapport with them. We have differences of views but that’s not a problem. There’s no hard feelings. I hope to maintain that.
Q. Do you think they will miss you in the cabinet?
Zaid: I think they will miss me because I am quite a nice guy. But, some would be pleased. In fact, I already got SMSes from divisions, saying they were very happy with my decision.
Q. Do you think your resignation has an impact on Abdullah this coming party election?
Zaid: I think it would improve his chances. Without me, there is less issue associated with him.
Q. Before the ISA detention have it ever crossed your mind to resign?
Zaid: It crossed my mind a couple of times.
Umno maverick Senator Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has decided to stick to his decision to quit as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department and de facto Law Minister, saying the recent arrests under the Internal Security Act was the "last straw".
Six months after being handpicked by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to spearhead judicial reforms, Zaid told a packed press conference yesterday his efforts had met with "a brickwall" and he now considered himself "a failure".
He revealed that his proposals met with "a lot of opposition from the party as well as some cabinet colleagues" who accused him of not being a genuine fighter for his race and religion, "as if I am less Malay".He had tried to bring forward ideas and proposals for a more transparent judiciary, better selection of judges, proper constitutional recognition for the power of the court and reform of the police.
"I suggested them all but I only succeeded in giving out a small amount of ex-gratia to the sacked judges. So, I admit my failure," he added.
He also described himself as "a man with responsibility (but) with no authority".
On top of that, he said he was also harshly criticised in the Dewan Rakyat and Dewan Negara with calls for him to be sacked as he has not done much to defend his nation, adding "I have gone through a lot."
He said since it was difficult for many to accept his views on the reforms and changes, he decided not to continue to be a burden to Abdullah who himself has been facing a lot of pressure lately.
"Let the Prime Minister focus on problems which he needs to overcome or settle before the coming general assembly. Let not me be the problem. So I decided, best for me, the party, country, for all and for the PM, let me resign.
In his 40-minute press conference, Zaid spoke frankly on a number of related issues. They are:
> On the prime minister's suggestion that he take a two-week leave.
"I thank him, but I am not tired, I am just disappointed. So I don’t want to take leave and my decision to resign remains. I will resign," he said, adding his last day in the office was yesterday.
> On the ISA arrest of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng
"I did not expect this. That our government would find journalists a threat to the country? How can a journalist be a security threat? I cannot understand this. But, I am a minister, so I am responsible. In terms of ISA usage, for example, the police said we detain first, then only we investigate. This is a strange principle. I don’t understand this. You cannot detain people just because you want to investigate."
> On rule of law, transparency
"I have failed to convince those in authority, in position of power, to effect those changes about how this government should move forward. I believe in the basic principles that this country respects all rights, all people, all citizens.
"This country is for all. There is no room for discrimination. This country is about rule of law, about transparent process. These are the things that we need to change. If you don’t subscribe to this or you just pay lip service to this principle, it is difficult to translate that into a policy."
> On accusations that he was working against his own race
He said he sincerely felt the Malays, the country and the people would be better off with the policies that he had thought of. "It has never crossed my mind to deny or bring disadvantage to my own religion or race."
On the Conversion to Islam forum organised by the Bar Council whereby he admitted being condemned by many for not standing up for Islam, Zaid said the issue was not about religion but about humans, concerning problems related to marriage and divorce.
"I cannot translate or make them understand this basic principle that this country is for all. We need to respect equal rights for all people, all races, as provided in the constitution. I feel that it is not difficult to understand this basic principle. And I feel a bit sad that this becomes a problem."
> On whether he was giving up easily
"No, this is not about giving up. This is paving the way for a transformation in a way that I hope will wake up people, will result in some changes (from the party or his cabinet colleages). That’s my hope. That would be good enough."
> On his senatorship
He said he will remain a senator as "it would be nice to talk sometimes in the Senate, to give my views on public issues. I love this country very much and would like to do what I can. I am not about to disappear. I still got some years to contribute to this country, but I just have to play a different role."
Question and answer session:
Q. You have said before, you will keep on trying despite the obstacles in initiating reforms. Why give up now?
Zaid: I was looking for some signs of change, some positive developments to give some sort of assurance, confidence but obviously not. I think if I stayed longer you would have asked me, why are you staying so long, yet you do nothing about this? I think six months is good.
Q. Are you disappointed with the Prime Minister?
Zaid: He is a nice man.
Q. Has he (PM) failed to initiate reforms?
Zaid: He has other things to deal with that I may not know of. Remember, he is the president of the party, I am just an ordinary guy. I don’t have to worry about too many things but he may have other things to worry about.
Q. Do you think he support your policy reforms?
Zaid: I think, within the constraints that he got, he supports it, yes. But he got severe constraints. That’s how I sense it.
Q. Would you remain in Umno or join the opposition?
Zaid: It is a very difficult question because on one hand, Umno hasn’t treated me so well over the years. I got suspended for things I didn’t do, my own nomination in Kota Baru has got into trouble, a lot of people criticised me. Most of those who criticised me about the reforms are actually from Umno. So, I do have some problems.
But at the same time, I also don’t know PKR well, I don’t know the leaders. So, it’s too early to say. But, I have an open mind and I am in no hurry to make a decision.
I have not made any decision to join anybody. I am just saying I have to do this (resign) because I hope it will trigger some good things, it will trigger some changes on the part of the people in power, it will trigger some self-reflection on their part and I hope the PM will overcome his challenges without the burden that I carry.
Q. Have you been courted by them?
Zaid: No, I was not courted but I have friends all over the place who call up, things like that, but these are things that happen to everybody.
Q. Will you go back to practice?
Zaid: I don’t think so. I want to start a foundation to help build closer relations among people of this country. I think race discrimination, race prejudice, race relations is very bad. When I was young, we had a much closer racial relations. Today, we are very divided.
Q. If the government abolishes the ISA, would you make a comeback?
Zaid: I have told the Prime Minister, Sir, you handle your whatever issues, and then, if after all that is settled, if you feel you still want me to be of service to the country, yes. I am not leaving out anything. But of course, to ensure I won’t have the same problems, I must also be satisfied that there are enough people in the cabinet, in the supreme council and in the BN, that support the changes.
Q. Reform is quite impossible in Malaysia as the people are not supportive. How?
Zaid: They could be more supportive but there has to be a transformation at the political level.
Q. Do you think Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim would bring about reforms?
Zaid: That’s a hypothetical question. I just hope that anyone who forms the government - be it Abdullah, or Najib, or Tengku Razaleigh (Hamzah), or (Tan Sri) Muhyiddin (Yassin), or Anwar as the PM, I don’t care who - I just want the transformation to take place. That’s my hope.
Q. Was it a mistake to accept Abdullah’s invitation to become a minister?
Zaid: No, that was not a mistake. I would not know what it’s like if I didn’t join.
Q. Don’t you think the next person who comes in will face the same obstacles and therefore it is better for someone with your passion to continue with the fight for reforms?
Zaid: That’s your view. I have to endure these things. I have come to a conclusion, maybe somebody else is more acceptable. My character or the way I talk may upset people. Maybe some other things can be done by other people. You can’t say just because Zaid Ibrahim is not around it can’t be done. It can be done if the political will is there.
Q. What is the single thing Abdullah can do to bring about positive changes?
Zaid: The one single thing is to trust the people of this country - all races. If you feel, you can’t bring yourself to that level of trust and acceptance of certain principles, you will always worry whether a particular policy will benefit this group or that group. You will worry whether it will upset certain benefits or privileges that you have. If you have that sort of thinking, thinking too much about being a "pejuang bangsa" (one who fights for the race), it is difficult to have a policy that reaches out to everybody, that applies to all. That psychological barrier has to be overcome. We have to trust we are one people who want to build one country.
Q. What do you have to say to your cabinet colleagues?
Zaid: To my cab colleague, no hard feelings. Some of them are very fine gentleme. I have close rapport with them. We have differences of views but that’s not a problem. There’s no hard feelings. I hope to maintain that.
Q. Do you think they will miss you in the cabinet?
Zaid: I think they will miss me because I am quite a nice guy. But, some would be pleased. In fact, I already got SMSes from divisions, saying they were very happy with my decision.
Q. Do you think your resignation has an impact on Abdullah this coming party election?
Zaid: I think it would improve his chances. Without me, there is less issue associated with him.
Q. Before the ISA detention have it ever crossed your mind to resign?
Zaid: It crossed my mind a couple of times.
PRESS STATEMENT - Pakatan Rakyat has the numbers
PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA, 16 SEPTEMBER 2008
Hari ini rakyat Malaysia menyambut Hari Malaysia- hari di mana negara kita menjadi satu dan rakyatnya bersatu. Hari ini mempunyai makna baru. Selepas bertahun berjuang, melawan sistem yang dilanda dan mengabaikan prinsip keadilan- kita sekarang berada diambang kemenangan. Hasrat kita untuk membina semula negara dan menyatu padukan rakyat Malaysia sebagaimana yang dicita-citakan oleh pejuang-pejuang kemerdekaan sudah semakin dekat.
Keadaan ekonomi yang merudum jatuh dengan kadar pengangguran dan inflasi yang tinggi telah menyebabkan rasa tidak puas hati rakyat yang meluap-luap. Hubungan antara kaum menjadi tegang, diburukkan lagi dengan propaganda oleh media yang dikawal oleh kerajaan. Pentadbiran sekarang gagal untuk menawarkan jawapan buat negara kita keluar dari kedudukan sukar ini.
Pakatan Rakyat yakin dapat menyelamatkan Malaysia dari masalah ekonomi dan politik berbaur perkauman. Kami akan melaksanakannya secara bertanggungajwab, menuruti prinsip undang-undang dan tidak akan sama sekali menjejaskan keselamatan dan kestabilan negara dan rakyat negara ini.
Pakatan Rakyat kini memiliki majoriti yang selesa untuk membentuk sebuah kerajaan baru yang stabil. Kerajaan baru yang mencerminkan masyarakat Malaysia yang majmuk.
Jesteru itu kami ingin duduk semeja dengan Perdana Menteri Abdullah Badawi untuk melaksanakan peralihan kuasa secara bertanggungjawab, lancar dan aman. Hasrat ini telah kami sampaikan kepada Perdana Menteri melalui surat yang dikirimkan jam 2.30 petang semalam.
Dengan mandat ini kami bertekad untuk melaksanakan peralihan kuasa yang aman. Kami tidak ingin berulangnya peristiwa yang berlaku sewaktu mengambil alih kuasa di negeri Perak dan Selangor, di mana dokumen milik kerajaan negeri di lupuskan oleh pentadbiran terdahulu.
Kami mengingatkan kepada elemen radikal di dalam Barisan Nasional agar tidak menyalahgunakan kuasa serta menahan para penyokong Pakatan Rakyat. Penyiasatan yang dibuat secara tergesa-gesa oleh BPR terhadap Dato Seri Yong Teck Lee selepas mengumumkan akan membuat undi tidak percaya terhadap Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi merupakan di antara taktik yang kita tolak. Penggunaan ISA terhadap Ahli Parlimen Teresa Kok merupakan contoh untuk menghalang perubahan dengan tidak mengikut lunas-lunas perundangan.
Jesteru itu kami ingin duduk semeja dengan Perdana Menteri Abdullah Badawi untuk melaksanakan peralihan kuasa secara bertanggungjawab, lancar dan aman. Hasrat ini telah kami sampaikan kepada Perdana Menteri melalui surat yang dikirimkan jam 2.30 petang semalam dan kami menuntut beliau memberi perhatian terhadap beberapa perkara seperti berikut :
1) Agar Barisan Nasional tidak menghalang ahli parlimennya dari bertindak menurut suara hati mereka, hak yang dijamin undang-undang serta keputusan yang mereka buat tanpa paksaan;
2) BN tidak boleh menggunakan Akta Keselamatan Dalam Negeri untuk menahan ahli parlimen yang berhasrat untuk menyertai Pakatan Rakyat atau ahli parlimen Pakatan Rakyat yang berjumlah 82 itu;
3) Kerajaan BN tidak seharusnya menggunakan kuasa darurat, kuasa polis, atau menggantung perlembagaan mahupun membubarkan parlimen di dalam usaha mereka untuk menghalang Pakatan Rakyat dari berkuasa;
4) Dan Kerajaan Barisan Nasional tidak membuat sekatan jalan raya dan menghalang ahli parlimen, dari memasuki parlimen dan juga institusi-institusi kerajaan lainnya.
Kami yakin Perdana Menteri berkongsi keperihatinan yang sama terutamanya berkenaan kebajikan rakyat dan keselamatan negara. Kami percaya beliau akan memastikan Barisan Nasional bertindak mengikut perlembagaan dan prinsip-prinsip demokratik demi memastikan peralihan kuasa yang aman, serta tiada tindakan sabotaj untuk menghalang hasrat rakyat ataupun menggunakan retorik berbaur perkauman.
Kami menyeru masyarakat di semua lapisan agar memahami hasrat kami semata-mata untuk kebaikan negara ini. Saya juga ingin mengingatkan media massa jangan lagi berada di dalam penafian dengan meneruskan propaganda bahawa kami berbohong. Kita sekarang berada dalam era baru maka saya menyeru media massa meninggalkan tabiat lama dan mengambil iltizam untuk meningkatkan professionalisme kewartawanan.
Selepas pertemuan dengan Perdana Menteri, kami berhasrat untuk meneruskan gerak kerja kami sebagaimana yang digariskan oleh Perlembagaan Persekutuan di dalam kami membentuk kerajaan baru dengan perkenan Yang Di-Pertuan Agong.
ANWAR IBRAHIM
Ketua Pembangkang
Ketua Umum Parti Keadilan Rakyat
--- PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE---Press conference
PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA, 16 SEPTEMBER 2008
Today Malaysians celebrate Malaysia day – the day our country became whole and our people become united. This day has a new meaning. After years of struggle, after fighting against a system that is corrupt and unjust—we affirm that victory is finally at hand. Our vision of rebuilding this country and bringing its people together, as the founding fathers envisioned, is within reach.
The economy is in turmoil with runaway inflation and joblessness creating widespread discontent. Racial tensions have been rising, exacerbated by the propaganda spread in the government owned mainstream media. The administration has offered no vision to steer the nation out of this quagmire and there is manifest erosion in confidence in the current government.
We in Pakatan Rakyat believe we can save Malaysia from economic ruin and the dangerous politics of racism. We will do so prudently, legally and in doing so we will not jeopardize the security and stability of the country and the safety of its people.
We have received firm commitments from members of Parliament in excess of the number required to form a new government, and our government will reflect the diverse makeup of Malaysian society.
It has been our concern to ensure a peaceful transition of power. We do not wish to see a repeat of what transpired in the Selangor and Perak State governments, where following the victory of Pakatan Rakyat on March 8th, documents were shredded and removed by the outgoing administration.
We furthermore advise radical elements within BN against the abuse of state power to unlawfully harass and detain our supporters. The immediate investigation by the ACA of Dato Seri Yong Teck Lee after the announcement by SAPP of its intention to move a motion of no-confidence against Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is another example of the tactics we reject. The use of the ISA, as has happened to MP Teresa Kok, would be an unlawful impediment to the transition process.
In light these serious concerns, yesterday leaders of Pakatan Rakyat sent a letter to the Prime Minister at 2:30 PM requesting a meeting to discuss the future course of the nation’s leadership and to seek his assurance on the following important matters:
1) That the BN shall not hinder or prevent their BN MPs from acting in accordance with their conscience, constitutional rights and independent judgment;
2) That the BN government shall not invoke the Internal Security Act to detain any of the MPs who will join Pakatan Rakyat, or any of the present 82 Pakatan Rakyat MPs;
3) That the BN government shall not invoke emergency or police powers, or suspend the constitution, or dissolve parliament in response to our intention to form a new government;
4) That the Barisan Nasional government shall not impose road-blocks and impede the MPs from gaining access to the House of Parliament and the institutions of government.
We believe the Prime Minister will share Pakatan Rakyat’s concerns for the welfare of the people and security of the nation. We are confident he will ensure the BN will act constitutionally and democratically to ensure that the transition will be peaceful, and there will be no actions taken to sabotage the wishes of the people or play on racial tensions in the country.
We appeal to all quarters in Malaysian society to understand our intentions are for the betterment of Malaysian society. The mainstream media, in particular, should accept the reality of these historic times and report fairly, accurately and without bias. The irresponsible tact that is used by the media to obfuscate issues, attack opposition supporters and instigate racial tensions must end immediately.
Following our meeting with the Prime Minister we intend to proceed within the framework established by the Federal Constitution in the formation of a new government, with the assent of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
ANWAR IBRAHIM
Leader of Opposition
De-facto leader, Keadilan
Monday, September 15, 2008
Anwar: Sept 16 to ‘mark a clear change’ - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 15, 2008
Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that Sept 16 will mark a “clear and concrete movement towards a change in the Federal Government” but did not specify if he would meet his own deadline in toppling the ruling government.
At Pakatan Rakyat gathering to commemorate the 45th Malaysia Day at the Kelana Jaya stadium here on Monday night, he urged his supporters to have faith.
PKR treasurer and Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang, and DAP secretary general and Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng were among those who attended the gathering.
Thousands of supporters had packed the stadium, shouting “Reformasi” and issuing challenges to the ruling Barisan government.
Anwar had previously announced that he had sufficient numbers of Barisan Nasional Members of Parliament who were going to cross over to the opposition alliance for him to form a new government on Tuesday, Sept 16.
But sodomy allegations, a hastily-arranged overseas trip by Barisan backbenchers and a crackdown using the Internal Security Act have put the brakes on the PKR adviser’s takeover plans.
Earlier, DAP’s Lim Kit Siang said that six months ago, the idea of taking over the government would have been unthinkable.
“But now the people believe ... it’s not when 916 (or Sept 16) will happen, but the fact that Pakatan can actually topple the government,” he said, adding that the ISA arrests of an online portal editor, an MP and a journalist had pipped things to the opposition alliance’s favour.
Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that Sept 16 will mark a “clear and concrete movement towards a change in the Federal Government” but did not specify if he would meet his own deadline in toppling the ruling government.At Pakatan Rakyat gathering to commemorate the 45th Malaysia Day at the Kelana Jaya stadium here on Monday night, he urged his supporters to have faith.
PKR treasurer and Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang, and DAP secretary general and Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng were among those who attended the gathering.
Thousands of supporters had packed the stadium, shouting “Reformasi” and issuing challenges to the ruling Barisan government.
Anwar had previously announced that he had sufficient numbers of Barisan Nasional Members of Parliament who were going to cross over to the opposition alliance for him to form a new government on Tuesday, Sept 16.
But sodomy allegations, a hastily-arranged overseas trip by Barisan backbenchers and a crackdown using the Internal Security Act have put the brakes on the PKR adviser’s takeover plans.
Earlier, DAP’s Lim Kit Siang said that six months ago, the idea of taking over the government would have been unthinkable.“But now the people believe ... it’s not when 916 (or Sept 16) will happen, but the fact that Pakatan can actually topple the government,” he said, adding that the ISA arrests of an online portal editor, an MP and a journalist had pipped things to the opposition alliance’s favour.
Perlis Mufti: ISA arrests not the solution - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 15, 2008
Perlis Mufti Dr Asri Zainul Abidin has criticised the recent arrests under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
Saying that Islam did not need the ISA to defend itself, he added that the Quran or the Hadis should be used as a guide to investigate if a person was accused of insulting Islam.
“The authorities should have provided religious evidence to argue against the accused.
“Detaining someone under the ISA for committing religious offences will not stop misunderstandings about Islam.
“Disallowing a person the opportunity to defend himself is wrong,” he told Mstar Online on Monday.
Dr Asri said Jakim should play a more active role by giving more explanation on religious issues.
“Jakim should also explain on the issue of offences said to be committed by Malaysia Today portal editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin against Islam,” he added.
Zaid Quits - NST
Sept 15, 2008
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has tendered his resignation from the Cabinet.
His letter was sent to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi earlier today. He arrived at the the prime minister’s Seri Perdana residence at about 2.30pm.
There is no indication from the Prime Minister's office as yet whether Zaid's resignation will be accepted.
The New Straits Times learnt that the former Kota Baru MP had decided to quit over the use of the Internal Security Act.
Zaid's resignation comes in the wake of his criticisms against the arrest of blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, Seputeh MP Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng on Friday.
At a Press conference in Kota Baru on Sunday, Zaid said the ISA should only be used against those who truly posed a threat to national security, such as terrorists.
He said he was "ready to resign" if Abdullah felt that he would be a problem to Umno and the government due to his views, which he acknowledged differed with the majority in the Cabinet.
Zaid was appointed minister in charge of law after the general election in March.
He did not stand for election as an MP, but was later appointed as a Senator in the Dewan Negara.
His appointment was lauded by the legal fraternity as being a positive move for Abdullah's administration.
As an outspoken MP and established lawyer, Zaid was seen as having the right credentials to bring about change to the legal system and to improve the image of the judiciary in particular.
In an interview soon after his appointment, he made it clear that he was "here to do the job, not to be popular with anyone."
A major development after Zaid took office was the issue of ex-gratia payments to the seven Supreme court judges affected in the 1988 judicial crisis.
Zaid also announced that a Judicial Appointments Commission would be appointed to nominate, appoint and promote judges, a body which the Malaysian Bar advocated for more than two decades.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Zaid Ibrahim has tendered his resignation from the Cabinet.His letter was sent to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi earlier today. He arrived at the the prime minister’s Seri Perdana residence at about 2.30pm.
There is no indication from the Prime Minister's office as yet whether Zaid's resignation will be accepted.
The New Straits Times learnt that the former Kota Baru MP had decided to quit over the use of the Internal Security Act.
Zaid's resignation comes in the wake of his criticisms against the arrest of blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, Seputeh MP Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng on Friday.
At a Press conference in Kota Baru on Sunday, Zaid said the ISA should only be used against those who truly posed a threat to national security, such as terrorists.
He said he was "ready to resign" if Abdullah felt that he would be a problem to Umno and the government due to his views, which he acknowledged differed with the majority in the Cabinet.
Zaid was appointed minister in charge of law after the general election in March.
He did not stand for election as an MP, but was later appointed as a Senator in the Dewan Negara.
His appointment was lauded by the legal fraternity as being a positive move for Abdullah's administration.
As an outspoken MP and established lawyer, Zaid was seen as having the right credentials to bring about change to the legal system and to improve the image of the judiciary in particular.
In an interview soon after his appointment, he made it clear that he was "here to do the job, not to be popular with anyone."
A major development after Zaid took office was the issue of ex-gratia payments to the seven Supreme court judges affected in the 1988 judicial crisis.
Zaid also announced that a Judicial Appointments Commission would be appointed to nominate, appoint and promote judges, a body which the Malaysian Bar advocated for more than two decades.
ISA: Teresa Kok to spend another 27 days in detention - NST
KUALA LUMPUR, Mon.: Sept 15, 2008
Seputeh MP Teresa Kok will spend the next 27 days in detention under the Internal Security Act.
She will, however, be allowed to meet her lawyers on Wednesday.
This was disclosed by her father, Kok Kim Tong, 74, after he had met her for about an hour in Bukit Aman today. Also present were Teresa’s mother’s Pong Seh Kwan, 71, her aide, and a niece.
She was detained last Saturday along with blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin and reporter Tan Hoon Cheng. The reporter was released the following day.
Seputeh MP Teresa Kok will spend the next 27 days in detention under the Internal Security Act.She will, however, be allowed to meet her lawyers on Wednesday.
This was disclosed by her father, Kok Kim Tong, 74, after he had met her for about an hour in Bukit Aman today. Also present were Teresa’s mother’s Pong Seh Kwan, 71, her aide, and a niece.
She was detained last Saturday along with blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin and reporter Tan Hoon Cheng. The reporter was released the following day.
DAP to lead 'Free Teresa' Caucus on Wednesday - NST
KUALA LUMPUR, MON: Sept 15, 2008
The DAP will lead Pakatan Rakyat to hold a “Free Teresa Kok Parliamentary Caucus” meeting at the Parliament House on Wednesday.
DAP advisor and MP for Ipoh Timur Lim Kit Siang urged all Members of Parliament (MPs) from both sides of the divide to attend the meeting.
The meeting would be an acid test for all MPs and cabinet ministers of their stand on the Internal Security Act (ISA), he told a news conference at the Parliament Lobby here after submitting a letter on Teresa’s arrest to Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia today.
He said the meeting would also demand that the Home Ministry immediately release another detainee, blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, and retract the showcause letters it issued to the Sin Chew Daily, The Sun and Suara Keadilan.
The DAP will lead Pakatan Rakyat to hold a “Free Teresa Kok Parliamentary Caucus” meeting at the Parliament House on Wednesday.DAP advisor and MP for Ipoh Timur Lim Kit Siang urged all Members of Parliament (MPs) from both sides of the divide to attend the meeting.
The meeting would be an acid test for all MPs and cabinet ministers of their stand on the Internal Security Act (ISA), he told a news conference at the Parliament Lobby here after submitting a letter on Teresa’s arrest to Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia today.
He said the meeting would also demand that the Home Ministry immediately release another detainee, blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin, and retract the showcause letters it issued to the Sin Chew Daily, The Sun and Suara Keadilan.
Open Letter to Syed Hamid from Param Cumaraswamy - Sun
September 15, 2008
YB Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar
Kementerian Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri, Malaysia
Blok D2, Parcel D
Pusat Pentadbiran Kerajaan Persekutuan
62546 Putrajaya
YB Datuk Seri,
Administrative detentions without trial of:
Raja Petra Kamaruddin – blogger
Tan Hoon Cheng – journalist
Teresa Kok – Member of Parliament and State Legislative Councilor
The arrests and detentions without trial and the circumstances leading to the same of the abovenamed three under the Internal Security Act 1960 (ISA) on Sept. 12, 2008 are a source of grave concern for the rule of law and democratic values in Malaysia. All three are reported to have been detained under Section 73 (1) of the Act for purposes for police inquiry on grounds that there were reasonable cause to believe that they were acting in a manner prejudicial to the security of Malaysia. Under the same Act they can be detained for 60 days thereafter you as Minister could sign a detention order for further detention up to 2 years which could further be renewed. All such detentions are without trial and without any form of judicial supervision.
A further cause for concern is over the show cause letters sent to three newspapers by your Ministry to explain within one week for manipulation of sensitive issues, reporting a racially sensitive statement made by a politician belonging to the dominant political party currently in control of the government and for reporting that the present Inspector General of Police had been "paralysed" after undergoing a bypass surgery. Those notices were served on the newspapers under the Printing Presses and Publication Act 1984, a legislation for annual licensing of newspapers by the Executive.
Obviously if their explanations are not found satisfactory by you the annual licenses issued for these newspapers would be revoked. The decision to revoke is final and under the Act cannot be questioned "by any court or any ground whatsoever". Service of such notices leaves a chilling effect on freedom of the press.
With regard to the arrests and detentions in the case of Raja Petra Kamaruddin, there are two charges for sedition and criminal defamation pending against him for the very news items posted in his blog. Without awaiting the trials on these charges detaining him administratively would be seen as interfering into the due process of the court and prejudging the criminal charges and could amount to contempt of court. Such detention could also be seen as preventing him from adequately preparing his defences to the two criminal charges.
In the case of journalist, Tan Hoon Cheng, though it is a relieve that she has since been released after 18 hours of detention yet to subject her to such arrest and detention under the ISA for having recorded and reported accurately in the newspaper what is now alleged to be sensitive is beyond belief. What is of serious concern was the person who uttered the alleged sensitive remark, Datuk Ahmad Ismail, is currently under investigation for sedition. To date, it is reported that the police had not completed their investigations. Yet how in the interim the journalist who reported could be a threat to the security of the State is most puzzling. How did the police come to believe that she could be a threat to State security when the investigations were incomplete? Your clarification at your press conference on Sept. 13 that she was detained partly because of "alleged threats on her personal safety" is untenable. A country where the government has been resisting legislation to provide whistle blowers protection could resort to arbitrary detention under such a draconian legislation to provide such protection is shocking indeed.
Why the journalist who merely recorded and reported the statement was subjected to such detention when the person who uttered the statement is still not charged under the Sedition Act is yet to be explained. Your contention is that Datuk Ahmad has been suspended for three years from his political party meant that action has been taken against him. This is most unsatisfactory. The suspension from his political party was an internal party procedure. No action as yet has been taken against Datuk Ahmad by the State for an offence against the State. In any event the fact that UMNO (the political party) suspended him must necessarily mean that what she reported was true and correct.
In the case of Member of Parliament, Teresa Kok’s detention, you were reported to have said in the press conference that "She started a very sensitive issue with the question of the ‘azan’ and it should be stopped". She vehemently denied these allegations from the beginning and from media reports of various persons including the mosques concerned there appears abundance of evidence to support her denial. Yet todate no action seems to have been taken against the former Chief Minister of the State of Selangor, Khir Toyo, who lost his seat and his government in the March 8, general elections. It was he who made the allegations against her which were reported in a vernacular newspaper. Should he not be investigated for the offence of false news under Section 8(A) of the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 if not detained under the ISA?
The newspaper which originally published the news too may have committed the same offence. It is learnt that a police report has been lodged against Khir Toyo. What is the state of the investigations? Why detain Teresa Kok in the interim?
These latest developments are reminiscent of what happened in Malaysia in 1987 when 106 were detained under this draconian legislation and four newspapers banned. Those detentions led in the following year to the government’s assault on the independent judiciary. It is also reminiscent of how internal dissensions within the dominant political party in power spilled over to violations of human rights and fundamental liberties and rule of law in the nation with the guardian of these values namely the judiciary severely damaged and still not recovered.
There is something most unsettling over the conduct of the police on the investigations of the police reports lodged and the selectivism applied in the actions taken thus far.
As I mentioned in my earlier letter addressed to you on March 24, 2008 regarding the continued detention of the five Hindraf leaders under the ISA detention without trial offend the first principle of the rule of law.
I urge you to without delay take appropriate action to release Raja Petra and Teresa Kok from detention. I also urge you to withdraw the three show cause notices served on the newspapers
I am copying this letter to the Chairperson of the UN Human Rights Council, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Secretary General of the Commonwealth in which bodies Malaysia is much involved. It is to bring to their attention the fragility of the rule of law in Malaysia and how it is deteriorating. With these developments Malaysia’s role in these bodies is tenuous. I hope Malaysia is called upon to account for the violation of the rule of law, human rights and democratic values before these bodies. The Malaysian government must be ashamed of itself. The developments must be a source of embarrassment to YB Dato Seri Mohd Shafie Aqbal who only in August was elected Chair of the EXCO of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.
Yours sincerely,
Dato’ Param Cumaraswamy
(former UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges & Lawyers)
YB Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar
Kementerian Hal Ehwal Dalam Negeri, Malaysia
Blok D2, Parcel D
Pusat Pentadbiran Kerajaan Persekutuan
62546 Putrajaya
YB Datuk Seri,
Administrative detentions without trial of:
Raja Petra Kamaruddin – blogger
Tan Hoon Cheng – journalist
Teresa Kok – Member of Parliament and State Legislative Councilor
The arrests and detentions without trial and the circumstances leading to the same of the abovenamed three under the Internal Security Act 1960 (ISA) on Sept. 12, 2008 are a source of grave concern for the rule of law and democratic values in Malaysia. All three are reported to have been detained under Section 73 (1) of the Act for purposes for police inquiry on grounds that there were reasonable cause to believe that they were acting in a manner prejudicial to the security of Malaysia. Under the same Act they can be detained for 60 days thereafter you as Minister could sign a detention order for further detention up to 2 years which could further be renewed. All such detentions are without trial and without any form of judicial supervision.
A further cause for concern is over the show cause letters sent to three newspapers by your Ministry to explain within one week for manipulation of sensitive issues, reporting a racially sensitive statement made by a politician belonging to the dominant political party currently in control of the government and for reporting that the present Inspector General of Police had been "paralysed" after undergoing a bypass surgery. Those notices were served on the newspapers under the Printing Presses and Publication Act 1984, a legislation for annual licensing of newspapers by the Executive.
Obviously if their explanations are not found satisfactory by you the annual licenses issued for these newspapers would be revoked. The decision to revoke is final and under the Act cannot be questioned "by any court or any ground whatsoever". Service of such notices leaves a chilling effect on freedom of the press.
With regard to the arrests and detentions in the case of Raja Petra Kamaruddin, there are two charges for sedition and criminal defamation pending against him for the very news items posted in his blog. Without awaiting the trials on these charges detaining him administratively would be seen as interfering into the due process of the court and prejudging the criminal charges and could amount to contempt of court. Such detention could also be seen as preventing him from adequately preparing his defences to the two criminal charges.
In the case of journalist, Tan Hoon Cheng, though it is a relieve that she has since been released after 18 hours of detention yet to subject her to such arrest and detention under the ISA for having recorded and reported accurately in the newspaper what is now alleged to be sensitive is beyond belief. What is of serious concern was the person who uttered the alleged sensitive remark, Datuk Ahmad Ismail, is currently under investigation for sedition. To date, it is reported that the police had not completed their investigations. Yet how in the interim the journalist who reported could be a threat to the security of the State is most puzzling. How did the police come to believe that she could be a threat to State security when the investigations were incomplete? Your clarification at your press conference on Sept. 13 that she was detained partly because of "alleged threats on her personal safety" is untenable. A country where the government has been resisting legislation to provide whistle blowers protection could resort to arbitrary detention under such a draconian legislation to provide such protection is shocking indeed.
Why the journalist who merely recorded and reported the statement was subjected to such detention when the person who uttered the statement is still not charged under the Sedition Act is yet to be explained. Your contention is that Datuk Ahmad has been suspended for three years from his political party meant that action has been taken against him. This is most unsatisfactory. The suspension from his political party was an internal party procedure. No action as yet has been taken against Datuk Ahmad by the State for an offence against the State. In any event the fact that UMNO (the political party) suspended him must necessarily mean that what she reported was true and correct.
In the case of Member of Parliament, Teresa Kok’s detention, you were reported to have said in the press conference that "She started a very sensitive issue with the question of the ‘azan’ and it should be stopped". She vehemently denied these allegations from the beginning and from media reports of various persons including the mosques concerned there appears abundance of evidence to support her denial. Yet todate no action seems to have been taken against the former Chief Minister of the State of Selangor, Khir Toyo, who lost his seat and his government in the March 8, general elections. It was he who made the allegations against her which were reported in a vernacular newspaper. Should he not be investigated for the offence of false news under Section 8(A) of the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 if not detained under the ISA?
The newspaper which originally published the news too may have committed the same offence. It is learnt that a police report has been lodged against Khir Toyo. What is the state of the investigations? Why detain Teresa Kok in the interim?
These latest developments are reminiscent of what happened in Malaysia in 1987 when 106 were detained under this draconian legislation and four newspapers banned. Those detentions led in the following year to the government’s assault on the independent judiciary. It is also reminiscent of how internal dissensions within the dominant political party in power spilled over to violations of human rights and fundamental liberties and rule of law in the nation with the guardian of these values namely the judiciary severely damaged and still not recovered.
There is something most unsettling over the conduct of the police on the investigations of the police reports lodged and the selectivism applied in the actions taken thus far.
As I mentioned in my earlier letter addressed to you on March 24, 2008 regarding the continued detention of the five Hindraf leaders under the ISA detention without trial offend the first principle of the rule of law.
I urge you to without delay take appropriate action to release Raja Petra and Teresa Kok from detention. I also urge you to withdraw the three show cause notices served on the newspapers
I am copying this letter to the Chairperson of the UN Human Rights Council, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Secretary General of the Commonwealth in which bodies Malaysia is much involved. It is to bring to their attention the fragility of the rule of law in Malaysia and how it is deteriorating. With these developments Malaysia’s role in these bodies is tenuous. I hope Malaysia is called upon to account for the violation of the rule of law, human rights and democratic values before these bodies. The Malaysian government must be ashamed of itself. The developments must be a source of embarrassment to YB Dato Seri Mohd Shafie Aqbal who only in August was elected Chair of the EXCO of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.
Yours sincerely,
Dato’ Param Cumaraswamy
(former UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Judges & Lawyers)
Father: Teresa being probed on three offences - Sun
KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 15, 2008): by Charles Ramendran
Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, who was detained under the Internal Security Act on Friday, is being investigated for allegedly committing three offences deemed "racially sensitive", according to her parents who met her today at the Bukit Aman federal police headquarters.
Kok Kim Tong with his wife and their four year old granddaughter accompanied by Lim Kit Siang, Lim Guan Eng and other DAP members arriving at Bukit Aman to visit Teresa.
Her father Kok Kim Tong, 74, told reporters that he was told by Teresa that she was being probed for alleged involvement in the "Azan" issue, road signages with Jawi script and another matter regarding the Selangor Religious Department (JAIS).
Kok and his wife, Poh Seh Kwan, 71, who brought along their four-year-old grandaughter Kok En Qi and accompanied by Teresa's personal assistant Mandy Ooi, stepped into Bukit Aman at 1.45pm today.
A group of supporters mainly from the DAP, including party veteran Lim Kit Siang, his son Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng and other MPs gathered at the entrance.
Two hours later, Teresa's parents who appeared in high spirits, her niece and personal assistant emerged from the headquarters.
"I am happy to see her in good health although she looked pale and had suffered diarrhoea due to the food served to her," said Kok.
"A doctor who examined her had told her that her blood pressure was low. The bad news is the police have told her that she will be held for another 28 days at least," said Kok.
Teresa Kok's parents... Kok Kim Tong with his wife flanked by Kit Siang and Guan Eng being mobbed by the media after visiting her at Bukit Aman police headquarters.
Under the ISA, police are empowered to detain her for up to 60 days.
He said their meeting was held in a room in the presence of 13 police personnel.
He said he gave his daughter some herbal and chicken essence soup, her books, a bible and clothes.
Kok also said his daughter was being held at an undisclosed location in the city and was driven to and from that place with a hood over her head.
According to Mandy, Teresa was clad in the same clothes she wore when she was picked up but at other times during her detention she used clothes provided by the police.
She said Teresa managed to do some paperwork during the meeting and was delighted to see her niece.
She said police will allow Teresa's lawyers to meet her on Wednesday to provide legal advice.
Teresa's mother urged the authorities to release her daughter whom she said was kept in a room which has a partially open door and her pillows are hard, causing her neck pain.
Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said he was shocked by the arrest and treatment given to Teresa.
"She must be given better food and on Wednesday, the police must allow a priest to meet Teresa as she is Catholic and must be allowed to receive Holy Communinion."
Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, who was detained under the Internal Security Act on Friday, is being investigated for allegedly committing three offences deemed "racially sensitive", according to her parents who met her today at the Bukit Aman federal police headquarters.
Kok Kim Tong with his wife and their four year old granddaughter accompanied by Lim Kit Siang, Lim Guan Eng and other DAP members arriving at Bukit Aman to visit Teresa.Her father Kok Kim Tong, 74, told reporters that he was told by Teresa that she was being probed for alleged involvement in the "Azan" issue, road signages with Jawi script and another matter regarding the Selangor Religious Department (JAIS).
Kok and his wife, Poh Seh Kwan, 71, who brought along their four-year-old grandaughter Kok En Qi and accompanied by Teresa's personal assistant Mandy Ooi, stepped into Bukit Aman at 1.45pm today.
A group of supporters mainly from the DAP, including party veteran Lim Kit Siang, his son Penang chief minister Lim Guan Eng and other MPs gathered at the entrance.
Two hours later, Teresa's parents who appeared in high spirits, her niece and personal assistant emerged from the headquarters.
"I am happy to see her in good health although she looked pale and had suffered diarrhoea due to the food served to her," said Kok.
"A doctor who examined her had told her that her blood pressure was low. The bad news is the police have told her that she will be held for another 28 days at least," said Kok.
Teresa Kok's parents... Kok Kim Tong with his wife flanked by Kit Siang and Guan Eng being mobbed by the media after visiting her at Bukit Aman police headquarters.Under the ISA, police are empowered to detain her for up to 60 days.
He said their meeting was held in a room in the presence of 13 police personnel.
He said he gave his daughter some herbal and chicken essence soup, her books, a bible and clothes.
Kok also said his daughter was being held at an undisclosed location in the city and was driven to and from that place with a hood over her head.
According to Mandy, Teresa was clad in the same clothes she wore when she was picked up but at other times during her detention she used clothes provided by the police.
She said Teresa managed to do some paperwork during the meeting and was delighted to see her niece.
She said police will allow Teresa's lawyers to meet her on Wednesday to provide legal advice.
Teresa's mother urged the authorities to release her daughter whom she said was kept in a room which has a partially open door and her pillows are hard, causing her neck pain.
Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said he was shocked by the arrest and treatment given to Teresa.
"She must be given better food and on Wednesday, the police must allow a priest to meet Teresa as she is Catholic and must be allowed to receive Holy Communinion."
'My 18 hours under the ISA' - Star
Sept 15, 2008 By TAN HOON CHENG
On 12 September, about eight thirty in the evening, I was at my home in Bukit Mertajam, Penang. While enjoying my yew char koay (fried dough stick), I was worried about the show cause letter issued to Sin Chew Daily, and anxious about the days ahead for my newspaper.
Suddenly, a group of plain cloth police officers appeared at my front gate. The person who started to identify the group and the purpose of this visit was a woman officer. She was also the only one in her uniform.
Through the gate, she told me that I have to follow them to the Police station, in response to that I told her that unless they have a warrant of arrest, I will not open the gate. At the same time, I immediately rung up the legal adviser of our company and my direct superior, seeking their advice.
Later, the female officer told me that they are arresting me under Internal Security Act, therefore a warrant is not required. On hearing that, I was immediately was prepared for the worst.
I have to act calm, comforting my parents and reassuring them that my colleagues would be waiting for me at the police station to render assistance. When I was taken away, my parents acted strongly, they kept on asking the police to accord me with proper treatment.
I was brought to Seberang Perai Tengah IPD (district head office), and I was placed in a chilling cold room while waiting for the police to begin their paperwork. I was accompanied by a female officer who seemed to be trembling as a result of the low room temperature as well. To break the silence, I initiated a conversation. She told me, “You seemed to be very calm.”
I told her, “I am arrested under the Internal Security Act, even though I am scared, I have to face this reality. But I am worried about my parents, friends and relatives, they must be very worried about me.”
To be frank, I was very cool-headed. I believed that there must be a lot of people out there supporting me, giving me the strength that I need, so I must stay strong, to be with these people who are supporting me.
The police recorded all my personal belongings, these were later taken away from me. After that, I am considered ready to be sent to the Police Contingent Headquarters in Penang. When I was brought out of the police station, I realised that a lot of my colleagues in the media, together with representative from different parties and groups were already waiting outside the Police station to show their support. Seeing this,I was deeply touched, I could no longer hold my tears.
When the police car arrived at the station’s entrance, my superior, Puah Eu Peng, our Northern Region Manager, tried to halt the car with his body, to slow the police car’s movement. He knocked at the window, to make sure that I was in the car and gestured to show me his support.
I instantly wiped off my tears, I realised that a lot of them are staying with me, I must be with them as well.
After taking my thumbprints, I was given my dinner and arranged to spend my night in remand. It was not to my knowledge that my colleagues in the profession and people from different groups and parties were there to show their support, right outside that station.
I requested the female officer to keep the lights on. She told me not to worry, she will not switch off the lights. The police also informed me that I would be meeting my parents tomorrow morning at eight. I have spent a very long time, thinking of everything that I have to tell my parents. I have lost touch with the outside world this is my only opportunity, I must cherish it, to clearly explain everything to my parents.
After clearing my mind and organising my thoughts, I tried to sleep while lying on the wooden bed with the company of the mosquitoes and the noise of water dripping. I have no idea what tomorrow holds for me, but I know I have to be in my perfect condition to handle everything.
I have never suffered from insomnia and this very night, I finally experienced it. Deep down in my heart, I know that those who care about me, would also be experiencing the same, my heart wrenched thinking of that.
At 6 o’clock in the next morning, when I was about to wash up, the female officer passed me the clothing brought by my parents. I was surprised; everything was new, the toiletries, t-shirts, shorts, panties.
I later discovered that the ‘parents’ that the police officer was referring to were a bunch of my colleagues. While waiting outside the Penang Police Contingent Headquarter, they have prepared all these for me. They were uncertain when I would be released, but they told themselves that they must get these necessity items ready in the briefest time possible.
I met my parents and bided them goodbye, the police informed me that they would bring me to the Police Headquarter in Bukit Aman in Kuala Lumpur. My heart sank, I told myself this is the beginning of it, I must brace myself for everything.
After few turns of event, I was eventually brought to the Perak Police Headquarter in Ipoh. After a brief interrogation session, I was brought back to Penang Police Headquarter again.
It was here, where I was interrogated further. I told myself to keep my mind clear, I must tell them the truth, and respond appropriately.
After the interrogation session, I was brought to see another higher-ranked officer, he told me, “We can both go home now!”. Both of us turned to the clock on the wall, the time was 2.25p.m.
This my 18 hours under ISA. I have gone through a lot
After being released, I received a lot of messages, telephone calls and bouquets. My colleagues in the press, representatives from political parties, society leaders, schoolmates, classmates, friends and relatives have visited me at home. Of course, not forgetting the readers and the public who called up or visited Sin Chew Daily’s office in Penang or the Head Office in Petaling Jaya.
Calls, messages, well wishes, and visits from readers and friends. To all of them, I have to express my deepest gratitude. During that 18 hours which was filled with a lot of uncertainties, I felt that there is some unknown strength that has supported me throughout, I knew it must be from you all, those whom I knew or have not met!
I realise that our journey is still full with challenges and obstacles, so we have to continue the same righteous spirit and courage that we have all shown this time! Our society needs this spirit, to build a better tomorrow.
I have finally been freed, but I hope Teresa Kok and Raja Petra Kamaruddin and all those detainees under the Internal Security Act, could be released as soon as as possible. If the authorities think that they have broken the law, they should brought to the court of law to receive transparent and fair trials.
This article is reproduced here, with permission, from www.mysinchew.com
On 12 September, about eight thirty in the evening, I was at my home in Bukit Mertajam, Penang. While enjoying my yew char koay (fried dough stick), I was worried about the show cause letter issued to Sin Chew Daily, and anxious about the days ahead for my newspaper.Suddenly, a group of plain cloth police officers appeared at my front gate. The person who started to identify the group and the purpose of this visit was a woman officer. She was also the only one in her uniform.
Through the gate, she told me that I have to follow them to the Police station, in response to that I told her that unless they have a warrant of arrest, I will not open the gate. At the same time, I immediately rung up the legal adviser of our company and my direct superior, seeking their advice.
Later, the female officer told me that they are arresting me under Internal Security Act, therefore a warrant is not required. On hearing that, I was immediately was prepared for the worst.
I have to act calm, comforting my parents and reassuring them that my colleagues would be waiting for me at the police station to render assistance. When I was taken away, my parents acted strongly, they kept on asking the police to accord me with proper treatment.
I was brought to Seberang Perai Tengah IPD (district head office), and I was placed in a chilling cold room while waiting for the police to begin their paperwork. I was accompanied by a female officer who seemed to be trembling as a result of the low room temperature as well. To break the silence, I initiated a conversation. She told me, “You seemed to be very calm.”
I told her, “I am arrested under the Internal Security Act, even though I am scared, I have to face this reality. But I am worried about my parents, friends and relatives, they must be very worried about me.”
To be frank, I was very cool-headed. I believed that there must be a lot of people out there supporting me, giving me the strength that I need, so I must stay strong, to be with these people who are supporting me.
The police recorded all my personal belongings, these were later taken away from me. After that, I am considered ready to be sent to the Police Contingent Headquarters in Penang. When I was brought out of the police station, I realised that a lot of my colleagues in the media, together with representative from different parties and groups were already waiting outside the Police station to show their support. Seeing this,I was deeply touched, I could no longer hold my tears.
When the police car arrived at the station’s entrance, my superior, Puah Eu Peng, our Northern Region Manager, tried to halt the car with his body, to slow the police car’s movement. He knocked at the window, to make sure that I was in the car and gestured to show me his support.
I instantly wiped off my tears, I realised that a lot of them are staying with me, I must be with them as well.
After taking my thumbprints, I was given my dinner and arranged to spend my night in remand. It was not to my knowledge that my colleagues in the profession and people from different groups and parties were there to show their support, right outside that station.
I requested the female officer to keep the lights on. She told me not to worry, she will not switch off the lights. The police also informed me that I would be meeting my parents tomorrow morning at eight. I have spent a very long time, thinking of everything that I have to tell my parents. I have lost touch with the outside world this is my only opportunity, I must cherish it, to clearly explain everything to my parents.
After clearing my mind and organising my thoughts, I tried to sleep while lying on the wooden bed with the company of the mosquitoes and the noise of water dripping. I have no idea what tomorrow holds for me, but I know I have to be in my perfect condition to handle everything.
I have never suffered from insomnia and this very night, I finally experienced it. Deep down in my heart, I know that those who care about me, would also be experiencing the same, my heart wrenched thinking of that.
At 6 o’clock in the next morning, when I was about to wash up, the female officer passed me the clothing brought by my parents. I was surprised; everything was new, the toiletries, t-shirts, shorts, panties.
I later discovered that the ‘parents’ that the police officer was referring to were a bunch of my colleagues. While waiting outside the Penang Police Contingent Headquarter, they have prepared all these for me. They were uncertain when I would be released, but they told themselves that they must get these necessity items ready in the briefest time possible.
I met my parents and bided them goodbye, the police informed me that they would bring me to the Police Headquarter in Bukit Aman in Kuala Lumpur. My heart sank, I told myself this is the beginning of it, I must brace myself for everything.
After few turns of event, I was eventually brought to the Perak Police Headquarter in Ipoh. After a brief interrogation session, I was brought back to Penang Police Headquarter again.
It was here, where I was interrogated further. I told myself to keep my mind clear, I must tell them the truth, and respond appropriately.
After the interrogation session, I was brought to see another higher-ranked officer, he told me, “We can both go home now!”. Both of us turned to the clock on the wall, the time was 2.25p.m.
This my 18 hours under ISA. I have gone through a lot
After being released, I received a lot of messages, telephone calls and bouquets. My colleagues in the press, representatives from political parties, society leaders, schoolmates, classmates, friends and relatives have visited me at home. Of course, not forgetting the readers and the public who called up or visited Sin Chew Daily’s office in Penang or the Head Office in Petaling Jaya.
Calls, messages, well wishes, and visits from readers and friends. To all of them, I have to express my deepest gratitude. During that 18 hours which was filled with a lot of uncertainties, I felt that there is some unknown strength that has supported me throughout, I knew it must be from you all, those whom I knew or have not met!
I realise that our journey is still full with challenges and obstacles, so we have to continue the same righteous spirit and courage that we have all shown this time! Our society needs this spirit, to build a better tomorrow.
I have finally been freed, but I hope Teresa Kok and Raja Petra Kamaruddin and all those detainees under the Internal Security Act, could be released as soon as as possible. If the authorities think that they have broken the law, they should brought to the court of law to receive transparent and fair trials.
This article is reproduced here, with permission, from www.mysinchew.com
Sunday, September 14, 2008
DAP ISA Vigil - Malaysiakini
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Candlelight vigil for detained journalist - Star
Candlelight vigil for detained journalist - Star
MCA’s Fong: Home Minister’s explanation ‘unacceptable’ - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 14, 2008 By ELIZABETH LOOI
MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn has criticised Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar’s explanation for the detention of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng.
He said Syed Hamid’s explanation that Tan was arrested under the Internal Security Act (ISA) because her life was under threat was “totally unacceptable.”
“It was a feeble attempt to justify the use of the ISA on Tan.
“By doing so, the police have caused added emotional distress and mental agony to Tan and her family,” Dr Fong wrote in his blog.
He also said Syed Hamid’s claim that the detention was done without his knowledge was inconsistent with his explanation.
Dr Fong said based on his experience as a former Cabinet minister, sensitive issues were discussed at weekly meetings before any decision was made.
“As the Home Minister, he should be responsible for any action undertaken by the police, especially when it involves the sensitivities of the people.
“As a senior Minister, (he) must be very familiar with these procedures,” he said.
Dr Fong also called for the Government to either abolish or review the ISA.
“The government should abolish or take another look at the ISA to put in place a rigorous system of checks and balances before any decision is taken to detain someone,” he said.
MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn has criticised Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar’s explanation for the detention of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng.
He said Syed Hamid’s explanation that Tan was arrested under the Internal Security Act (ISA) because her life was under threat was “totally unacceptable.”
“It was a feeble attempt to justify the use of the ISA on Tan.
“By doing so, the police have caused added emotional distress and mental agony to Tan and her family,” Dr Fong wrote in his blog.
He also said Syed Hamid’s claim that the detention was done without his knowledge was inconsistent with his explanation.
Dr Fong said based on his experience as a former Cabinet minister, sensitive issues were discussed at weekly meetings before any decision was made.
“As the Home Minister, he should be responsible for any action undertaken by the police, especially when it involves the sensitivities of the people.
“As a senior Minister, (he) must be very familiar with these procedures,” he said.
Dr Fong also called for the Government to either abolish or review the ISA.
“The government should abolish or take another look at the ISA to put in place a rigorous system of checks and balances before any decision is taken to detain someone,” he said.
Police approve permit for PKR gathering - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 14, 2008 By ANDREW SAGAYAM
The police have issued a permit for Pakatan Rakyat’s mass gathering on Monday at the Kelana Jaya stadium.
The gathering is titled “Perhimpunan Perdana Sambutan Hari Malaysia” (Mass gathering to celebrate Malaysia Day), but websites related to the opposition alliance suggest the rally is being held to demand the release Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Seputeh MP Teresa Kok who are being held under the Internal Security Act.
Selangor police chief Datuk Khalid Abu Bakar said police have approved the permit for the gathering but reminded those taking part to listen to orders that may be issued by police.
“We advise the organisers and their supporters to observe the law at all times.
“Due to the huge number of people expected to attend the rally, precautions have been taken and the police will be prepared for all possibilities during the gathering,” he said after attending the “Balik Kampung - Rumah Selamat” campaign at Summit shopping complex in USJ here on Sunday.
About 30,000 supporters are expected to gather for the 7pm rally to call for the release of the two still detained. A third, journalist Tan Hoon Cheng from Sin Chew Daily, was freed on Saturday.
The police have issued a permit for Pakatan Rakyat’s mass gathering on Monday at the Kelana Jaya stadium.
The gathering is titled “Perhimpunan Perdana Sambutan Hari Malaysia” (Mass gathering to celebrate Malaysia Day), but websites related to the opposition alliance suggest the rally is being held to demand the release Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Seputeh MP Teresa Kok who are being held under the Internal Security Act.
Selangor police chief Datuk Khalid Abu Bakar said police have approved the permit for the gathering but reminded those taking part to listen to orders that may be issued by police.
“We advise the organisers and their supporters to observe the law at all times.
“Due to the huge number of people expected to attend the rally, precautions have been taken and the police will be prepared for all possibilities during the gathering,” he said after attending the “Balik Kampung - Rumah Selamat” campaign at Summit shopping complex in USJ here on Sunday.
About 30,000 supporters are expected to gather for the 7pm rally to call for the release of the two still detained. A third, journalist Tan Hoon Cheng from Sin Chew Daily, was freed on Saturday.
Wrong use of ISA: De facto law minister - Star
KOTA BARU: Sept 14, 2008 By IAN McINTYRE
Courtesy of Malaysiakini
The Internal Security Act (ISA) should not be used against civilians, de facto law minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim said.
The Act should only be used against terrorists or those trying to topple the Government by force, the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department said at a press conference at his home here on Sunday.
He was commenting on the arrests of three people -- Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng -- under the ISA.
Tan has since been released.
“I will seek a meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to have a frank discussion about this issue to seek his views as soon as possible,” he told reporters.
“I know I am breaking rank here ... I am prepared to face the consequences. If I am told to resign, I will do so.
"I am not a trouble maker and I don't want to cause any trouble for the Prime Minister, but I have my principles and will always be a vocal critic of the use of the ISA.
"I joined his administration to make changes and everybody knows, I am also for a more open form of media reporting," he added.
Zaid said it was time for the Federal Government to revert to the original spirit of the ISA, which was enacted to curb Communism and today should be used only on armed terrorists or those out to topple the Government by force.
“I am not calling for a repeal of the ISA, but it should only be use when there is a real threat to national security, such as armed terrorists, and not on civilians,” he said.
He said by using the ISA randomly, the Government was sending out a message that it does not trust the capabilities of its own enforcement agencies, such as the police, in maintaining peace.
There are ample punitive legislations such as the Penal Code, Sedition Act and criminal defamation to take against those who break the law or are involved in activities which may destabilise the Government, without having to invoke the ISA, Zaid said.
He said the use of the ISA also gives the impression of “selective prosecution” as the Government cannot incarcerate everybody.
“In this latest episode, we (the Government) have generated an impression of selective prosecution since no action was taken against the person who allegedly uttered seditious remarks.
“We are saying that we are only acting against those who are disloyal to us.”
“The Government needs to change and Cabinet members need to realise this -- we have to be progressive.”
Asked whether the ISA was likely used because of strained “race relations” which may undermine national stability, Zaid said that while he placed paramount importance on national stability, the role of the Government was to find solutions, not to make matters worse.
“I agree we have many issues and sensitivities to address but for me, racial disharmony is a seasonal thing in Malaysia. We must engage in open dialogues and discussions to resolve these issues,” he said.
On whether the ISA was used because the court process may be too long, Zaid noted that the Government never even attempted to use the court system first -- instead, it simply went ahead with using the ISA first.
“If our court system is too slow, we must ... make it more efficient by hiring more prosecutors, while the police must conduct proper investigation to acquire credible evidence,” he said.
Courtesy of MalaysiakiniThe Internal Security Act (ISA) should not be used against civilians, de facto law minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim said.
The Act should only be used against terrorists or those trying to topple the Government by force, the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department said at a press conference at his home here on Sunday.
He was commenting on the arrests of three people -- Seputeh MP Teresa Kok, Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng -- under the ISA.
Tan has since been released.
“I will seek a meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to have a frank discussion about this issue to seek his views as soon as possible,” he told reporters.
“I know I am breaking rank here ... I am prepared to face the consequences. If I am told to resign, I will do so.
"I am not a trouble maker and I don't want to cause any trouble for the Prime Minister, but I have my principles and will always be a vocal critic of the use of the ISA.
"I joined his administration to make changes and everybody knows, I am also for a more open form of media reporting," he added.
Zaid said it was time for the Federal Government to revert to the original spirit of the ISA, which was enacted to curb Communism and today should be used only on armed terrorists or those out to topple the Government by force.
“I am not calling for a repeal of the ISA, but it should only be use when there is a real threat to national security, such as armed terrorists, and not on civilians,” he said.
He said by using the ISA randomly, the Government was sending out a message that it does not trust the capabilities of its own enforcement agencies, such as the police, in maintaining peace.
There are ample punitive legislations such as the Penal Code, Sedition Act and criminal defamation to take against those who break the law or are involved in activities which may destabilise the Government, without having to invoke the ISA, Zaid said.
He said the use of the ISA also gives the impression of “selective prosecution” as the Government cannot incarcerate everybody.
“In this latest episode, we (the Government) have generated an impression of selective prosecution since no action was taken against the person who allegedly uttered seditious remarks.
“We are saying that we are only acting against those who are disloyal to us.”
“The Government needs to change and Cabinet members need to realise this -- we have to be progressive.”
Asked whether the ISA was likely used because of strained “race relations” which may undermine national stability, Zaid said that while he placed paramount importance on national stability, the role of the Government was to find solutions, not to make matters worse.
“I agree we have many issues and sensitivities to address but for me, racial disharmony is a seasonal thing in Malaysia. We must engage in open dialogues and discussions to resolve these issues,” he said.
On whether the ISA was used because the court process may be too long, Zaid noted that the Government never even attempted to use the court system first -- instead, it simply went ahead with using the ISA first.
“If our court system is too slow, we must ... make it more efficient by hiring more prosecutors, while the police must conduct proper investigation to acquire credible evidence,” he said.
Police reports lodged against Teresa Kok - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 14, 2008
The Muslim Consumers Association of Malaysia (PPIM) and the Islamic NGOs, Heritage Associations, Malay Cultural Organisations and Related Bodies Cooperation Network (Pewaris) have lodged police reports against Selangor state executive councillor Teresa Kok.
The reports were made by Pewaris advisor Rahimuddin Md Harun and PPIM Complaints Officer Mohd Nor Imran Yusuf at the Sentul district police headquarters at 11am on Sunday.
The reports were lodged over an allegation by former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo that Kok had tried to prohibit the “azan” call to prayer at mosques and surau in Kota Damansara, Sri Serdang and Puchong Jaya.
Kok has denied the allegations and said she would seek legal recourse against Khir and a Malay daliy that had reported his allegations. Additionally, Kota Raja MP Dr Siti Mariah Mahmood lodged a police report against Khir on Sept 11.
Meanwhile, Rahimuddin told reporters later Sunday that the police reports were lodged because Kok’s alleged statements could hurt the feelings of the Muslim community.
“We have made the reports so that the police can carry out the investigations on her because it is feared that the statements can spark racial animosity in Malaysia,” he said.
PPIM secretary-general Datuk Dr Ma’amor Osman said in a statement that PPIM supported the government’s detention of Kok, Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng under the Internal Security Act (ISA) on Friday. Tan was released on Saturday.
“The detentions are proof that the Government does not remain silent in matters involving racial sensitivities and the Federal Constitution.
“Matters such as these should be viewed seriously because, if ignored, they could incite hatred in the people, especially the Malays, because their special position has often been disputed by certain quarters,” he claimed. -- Bernama
The Muslim Consumers Association of Malaysia (PPIM) and the Islamic NGOs, Heritage Associations, Malay Cultural Organisations and Related Bodies Cooperation Network (Pewaris) have lodged police reports against Selangor state executive councillor Teresa Kok.
The reports were made by Pewaris advisor Rahimuddin Md Harun and PPIM Complaints Officer Mohd Nor Imran Yusuf at the Sentul district police headquarters at 11am on Sunday.
The reports were lodged over an allegation by former Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo that Kok had tried to prohibit the “azan” call to prayer at mosques and surau in Kota Damansara, Sri Serdang and Puchong Jaya.
Kok has denied the allegations and said she would seek legal recourse against Khir and a Malay daliy that had reported his allegations. Additionally, Kota Raja MP Dr Siti Mariah Mahmood lodged a police report against Khir on Sept 11.
Meanwhile, Rahimuddin told reporters later Sunday that the police reports were lodged because Kok’s alleged statements could hurt the feelings of the Muslim community.
“We have made the reports so that the police can carry out the investigations on her because it is feared that the statements can spark racial animosity in Malaysia,” he said.
PPIM secretary-general Datuk Dr Ma’amor Osman said in a statement that PPIM supported the government’s detention of Kok, Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamarudin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng under the Internal Security Act (ISA) on Friday. Tan was released on Saturday.
“The detentions are proof that the Government does not remain silent in matters involving racial sensitivities and the Federal Constitution.
“Matters such as these should be viewed seriously because, if ignored, they could incite hatred in the people, especially the Malays, because their special position has often been disputed by certain quarters,” he claimed. -- Bernama
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Lim Kit Siang on the ISA Crackdown - Malaysiakini
Media Conference Statement by DAP Parliamentary Leader and MP for Ipoh Timor Lim Kit Siang on ISA arrests of Teresa Kok, Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Tan Hoon Cheng held at DAP PJ HQ.
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Sin Chew reporter released - Star
BUKIT MERTAJAM: Sept 13, 2008 By DERRICK VINESH and CHRISTINA CHIN
Warm hugs from her anxious family members and friends saw Tan Hoon Cheng almost breaking down in tears as she returned home in Taman Alma, here at about 4.15pm Saturday.
The 33-year-old Sin Chew Daily reporter, who was detained Friday under the Internal Security Act (ISA), was released in less than 24 hours.
She was all smiles as she spoke to her family and friends for a mere 20 minutes before heading to stay at a friend’s house to avoid the media.
Clad in a pale orange T-shirt and jeans, Hoon Cheng remained calm and composed, as four police officers dropped her off in a four-wheel drive at 4.15pm.
Her brother Weng Tong, 37, said Hoon Cheng told him that she was taken to the Perak police headquarters in Ipoh instead of the Bukit Aman Police Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur as they had initially thought.
“The police drove her from the Penang police headquarters to Ipoh at about 8.30am and returned to the same place on the island at about 2.30pm.
“Due to slight traffic congestion on the Penang Bridge, they only reached our home in Bukit Mertajam at about 4pm,” he said Saturday.
Weng Tong, a tour guide based in Kuala Lumpur, said his sister told them that the policemen treated her well and that she was given proper meals to eat. Appealing for the media’s co-operation and understanding, he said, Hoon Cheng was not keen on giving any press statement for the time being.
“She just told us not to worry, now that she is back home safely.
“My sister is a very tough and independent girl. Although she is the youngest and the only girl among us three siblings, she is not the pet.
“She pampers us a lot, instead,” he said, adding that she was very committed to her work.
Weng Tong said Hoon Cheng wanted to go back to work immediately, but was advised by her colleagues to take it easy for a few days.
Their mother Khor Ah Heok, 59, said she was at peace only when she heard from Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who called at about noon to inform her that Hoon Cheng could be released by the evening.
“I could only afford a sigh of relief when I saw her at our front gate. I hope my worst fears about Hoon Cheng’s safety are over,” she said.
Hoon Cheng’s other brother Tan Weng Khian, 35, a sales executive, grandmother Tan Kim Tien, 95, sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces were also at their house to welcome her back.
Her father Tan Boon Siam, 65, was away at work when she returned home.
Weng Tong said the family was touched by the support of fellow Malaysians of all races who displayed their caring spirit during the trying 24 hours of Hoon Cheng’s arrest.
“I am not saying this for publicity sake, but my family has always respected and cared for the different communities, whom we have known all our lives.
“We just hope Malaysians will remain united and live peacefully as one harmonious family,” he said. He also thanked the Home Affairs Ministry, political parties, the media and public for their support and for helping to expedite Hoon Cheng’s release.
Hoon Cheng, who was arrested under Section 73(1) of the ISA at her home in Bukit Mertajam on Friday night, was allowed to see her parents for about 15 minutes Saturday morning.
Warm hugs from her anxious family members and friends saw Tan Hoon Cheng almost breaking down in tears as she returned home in Taman Alma, here at about 4.15pm Saturday.The 33-year-old Sin Chew Daily reporter, who was detained Friday under the Internal Security Act (ISA), was released in less than 24 hours.
She was all smiles as she spoke to her family and friends for a mere 20 minutes before heading to stay at a friend’s house to avoid the media.
Clad in a pale orange T-shirt and jeans, Hoon Cheng remained calm and composed, as four police officers dropped her off in a four-wheel drive at 4.15pm.
Her brother Weng Tong, 37, said Hoon Cheng told him that she was taken to the Perak police headquarters in Ipoh instead of the Bukit Aman Police Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur as they had initially thought.
“The police drove her from the Penang police headquarters to Ipoh at about 8.30am and returned to the same place on the island at about 2.30pm.
“Due to slight traffic congestion on the Penang Bridge, they only reached our home in Bukit Mertajam at about 4pm,” he said Saturday.
Weng Tong, a tour guide based in Kuala Lumpur, said his sister told them that the policemen treated her well and that she was given proper meals to eat. Appealing for the media’s co-operation and understanding, he said, Hoon Cheng was not keen on giving any press statement for the time being.
“She just told us not to worry, now that she is back home safely.
“My sister is a very tough and independent girl. Although she is the youngest and the only girl among us three siblings, she is not the pet.
“She pampers us a lot, instead,” he said, adding that she was very committed to her work.
Weng Tong said Hoon Cheng wanted to go back to work immediately, but was advised by her colleagues to take it easy for a few days.
Their mother Khor Ah Heok, 59, said she was at peace only when she heard from Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, who called at about noon to inform her that Hoon Cheng could be released by the evening.
“I could only afford a sigh of relief when I saw her at our front gate. I hope my worst fears about Hoon Cheng’s safety are over,” she said.
Hoon Cheng’s other brother Tan Weng Khian, 35, a sales executive, grandmother Tan Kim Tien, 95, sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces were also at their house to welcome her back.
Her father Tan Boon Siam, 65, was away at work when she returned home.
Weng Tong said the family was touched by the support of fellow Malaysians of all races who displayed their caring spirit during the trying 24 hours of Hoon Cheng’s arrest.
“I am not saying this for publicity sake, but my family has always respected and cared for the different communities, whom we have known all our lives.
“We just hope Malaysians will remain united and live peacefully as one harmonious family,” he said. He also thanked the Home Affairs Ministry, political parties, the media and public for their support and for helping to expedite Hoon Cheng’s release.
Hoon Cheng, who was arrested under Section 73(1) of the ISA at her home in Bukit Mertajam on Friday night, was allowed to see her parents for about 15 minutes Saturday morning.
Anwar: Rakyat yang bangkit bersuara ditindas - Malaysiakini
Sep 13, 08 4:14pm
Ketua Pembangkang, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim mendakwa, kerajaan Barisan Nasional yang diketuai Umno, menggunakan kuasa kuku besi untuk menindas dan membungkam rakyat Malaysia yang berani bangkit bersuara demi kebenaran dan integriti.
"Mereka teguh menyuarakan ketidakpuasan hati mereka terhadap segala penyalahgunaan kuasa, korupsi dan politik perkauman yang sering dimainkan oleh elit pemerintah," katanya dalam satu kenyataan hari ini.
Anwar turut mengulangi kecamannya terhadap ISA dan penggunaannya untuk menahan penulis blog serta aktivis terkenal Raja Petra Kamaruddin, Ahli Parlimen Seputeh yang juga exco kerajaan Selangor, Teresa Kok dan wartawan Sin Chew Daily, Tan Hoon Cheng.
"Pada 8 Mac dan kemudiannya pada 26 Ogos, rakyat Malaysia menyuarakan hasrat mereka agar terbentuknya sebuah kerajaan yang bertanggungjawab dan mampu untuk memenuhi aspirasi rakyat.
"Barisan Nasional yang diketuai Umno sudah sekian lama mengabaikan tanggungjawab ini," kata Anwar yang juga penasihat PKR dan ahli Parlimen Permatang Pauh.
Bagaimanapun, tegas Anwar, mereka gagal untuk memenuhi tuntutan perubahan, malah sanggup untuk menggadaikan negara ini bagi menyelamatkan diri sendiri serta untuk mengekalkan kuasa mereka.
"Kita tertanya-tanya sejauh mana kerajaan ini sanggup untuk menidakkan keadilan, menghancurkan institusi kenegaraan dan mengadu domba rakyat Malaysia yang berbilang kaum.
"Kami secara tegas menolak politik perkauman yang dimainkan oleh ahli politik Barisan Nasional yang diketuai Umno, apa yang berlaku jelas merupakan satu usaha mereka untuk mengalih perhatian rakyat
dari masalah dalaman Umno yang kian memburuk.
Masyarakat berbilang kaum
"Kami pimpinan Pakatan Rakyat bertekad serta berjanji bahawa kami tetap komited untuk membina masyarakat berbilang kaum yang teguh.
"Kami ingin menyorot pandangan semua kepada kenyataan Pakatan Rakyat yang dikeluarkan pada 8 September lalu.
"Kenyataan itu membuktikan iltizam kami untuk menjunjung jaminan yang termaktub di dalam Perlembagaan termasuklah kedudukan Islam sebagai agama rasmi, hak rakyat Malaysia untuk mengamalkan
agama masing-masing, Bahasa Melayu sebagai bahasa kebangsaan dan hak kaum masing-masing untuk menggunakan bahasa ibunda mereka dan kedudukan Raja-Raja Melayu serta kedudukan istimewa
orang Melayu dan bumiputera lainnya.
"Kami menggesa kerajaan untuk memberi jaminan kepada rakyat Malaysia bahawa operasi yang bermotifkan politik ini sudah berakhir," katanya.
Anwar berkata, sebagai rakyat negara ini yang bertekad untuk mematuhi semangat keperlembagaan, "kita sudah tidak mahu lagi hidup di dalam ketakutan".
"Kami menggesa sesiapa sahaja yang ditahan dibawah ISA mestilah dibebaskan segera.
"Kami juga menawarkan sokongan yang tidak berbelah bahagi kepada rakan-rakan kita yang ditahan serta keluarga mereka tatkala melalui saat-saat sukar ini," katanya.
Ketua Pembangkang, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim mendakwa, kerajaan Barisan Nasional yang diketuai Umno, menggunakan kuasa kuku besi untuk menindas dan membungkam rakyat Malaysia yang berani bangkit bersuara demi kebenaran dan integriti."Mereka teguh menyuarakan ketidakpuasan hati mereka terhadap segala penyalahgunaan kuasa, korupsi dan politik perkauman yang sering dimainkan oleh elit pemerintah," katanya dalam satu kenyataan hari ini.
Anwar turut mengulangi kecamannya terhadap ISA dan penggunaannya untuk menahan penulis blog serta aktivis terkenal Raja Petra Kamaruddin, Ahli Parlimen Seputeh yang juga exco kerajaan Selangor, Teresa Kok dan wartawan Sin Chew Daily, Tan Hoon Cheng.
"Pada 8 Mac dan kemudiannya pada 26 Ogos, rakyat Malaysia menyuarakan hasrat mereka agar terbentuknya sebuah kerajaan yang bertanggungjawab dan mampu untuk memenuhi aspirasi rakyat.
"Barisan Nasional yang diketuai Umno sudah sekian lama mengabaikan tanggungjawab ini," kata Anwar yang juga penasihat PKR dan ahli Parlimen Permatang Pauh.
Bagaimanapun, tegas Anwar, mereka gagal untuk memenuhi tuntutan perubahan, malah sanggup untuk menggadaikan negara ini bagi menyelamatkan diri sendiri serta untuk mengekalkan kuasa mereka.
"Kita tertanya-tanya sejauh mana kerajaan ini sanggup untuk menidakkan keadilan, menghancurkan institusi kenegaraan dan mengadu domba rakyat Malaysia yang berbilang kaum.
"Kami secara tegas menolak politik perkauman yang dimainkan oleh ahli politik Barisan Nasional yang diketuai Umno, apa yang berlaku jelas merupakan satu usaha mereka untuk mengalih perhatian rakyat
dari masalah dalaman Umno yang kian memburuk.
Masyarakat berbilang kaum
"Kami pimpinan Pakatan Rakyat bertekad serta berjanji bahawa kami tetap komited untuk membina masyarakat berbilang kaum yang teguh.
"Kami ingin menyorot pandangan semua kepada kenyataan Pakatan Rakyat yang dikeluarkan pada 8 September lalu.
"Kenyataan itu membuktikan iltizam kami untuk menjunjung jaminan yang termaktub di dalam Perlembagaan termasuklah kedudukan Islam sebagai agama rasmi, hak rakyat Malaysia untuk mengamalkan
agama masing-masing, Bahasa Melayu sebagai bahasa kebangsaan dan hak kaum masing-masing untuk menggunakan bahasa ibunda mereka dan kedudukan Raja-Raja Melayu serta kedudukan istimewa
orang Melayu dan bumiputera lainnya.
"Kami menggesa kerajaan untuk memberi jaminan kepada rakyat Malaysia bahawa operasi yang bermotifkan politik ini sudah berakhir," katanya.
Anwar berkata, sebagai rakyat negara ini yang bertekad untuk mematuhi semangat keperlembagaan, "kita sudah tidak mahu lagi hidup di dalam ketakutan".
"Kami menggesa sesiapa sahaja yang ditahan dibawah ISA mestilah dibebaskan segera.
"Kami juga menawarkan sokongan yang tidak berbelah bahagi kepada rakan-rakan kita yang ditahan serta keluarga mereka tatkala melalui saat-saat sukar ini," katanya.
K'jaan S'gor desak Teresa dibebaskan - Malaysiakini
imadie Shah Othman | Sep 13, 08 7:02pm
Kepimpinan utama negeri Selangor meminta kerajaan persekutuan supaya membebaskan segera exco negeri itu, Teresa Kok dan Raja Petra Kamaruddin yang ditahan di bawah Akta Keselamatan Dalam Negeri (ISA) semalam.
Wartawan Sin Chew Daily, Tan Hoon Cheng yang turut ditahan di bawah ISA semalam, telah dibebaskan hari ini.
Menteri Besar, Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim menuntut Teresa, yang juga ahli dewan undangan negeri (Adun) Kinrara itu, dibebaskan dalam tempoh selewat-lewatnya dua hari.
Abdul Khalid berkata, tidak ada sebab pemimpin DAP itu perlu ditangkap.
Beliau yang kesal dengan penangkapan Teresa, meyifatkan penggunaan ISA sebagai tidak menyelesaikan masalah dalam negara.
Menurut Abdul Khalid lagi, penggunaannya juga "tidak sesuai, tidak munasabah, 'low class' dan menjatuhkan nama baik Malaysia di peringkat antarabangsa".
"ISA tidak lagi perlu di saat rakyat matang dan bakal menyambut ulang tahun kemerdekaan negara ke-51," katanya dalam sidang media bersama Adun dan wakil rakyat Pakatan Rakyat di kediamannya di Shah Alam petang tadi.
Ekoran itu, tegas Khalid, kerajan negeri akan memberikan bantuan guaman dan kosnya akan ditanggung oleh kerajaan negeri.
Katanya, beliau akan berbincang dengan penasihat undang-undang Selangor dan memfailkan petisyen habeas corpus.
Kecam tangkapan Teresa
Diminta mengulas kesannya sekiranya usaha itu gagal, Abdul Khalid berkata, Teresa masih lagi "ada kerusi" sebagai Adun dan ahli parlimen.
Jawatannnya sebagai exco kerajaan negeri juga tidak berubah, tambahnya.
Sementara itu, kebanyakan wakil rakyat Pakatan memberikan reaksi tidak selesa dan mengecam penangkapan Teresa itu.
Speaker Dewan Undangan Negeri Selangor, Teng Cheng Khim yang terkejut dengan penahanan itu berkata, beliau terkilan dengan penahanan itu sejurus selepas Teresa (foto) memberikan taklimat kepada delegasi pelabur dari Guang Dong, China malam tadi.
"Bagaimana orang yang menarik pelaburan asing dari luar negara boleh dianggap sebagai mengancam keselamatan negara?" katanya.
Exco pendidikan, Haliman Ali pula berkata jika penangkapan Teresa dibuat atas alasan beliau melarang penggunaan pembesar suara untuk azan di masjid di negeri itu, perkara itu tidak boleh diterima.
Dalam mesyuarat exco Rabu lalu, katanya, Teresa telah menafikan bahawa beliau terlibat dalam larangan itu.
Menurut Adun PAS itu, dalam Islam, kalau benar beliau bersalah sekalipun, penangkapan tanpa bicara tetap tidak boleh dilakukan.
Kesan trauma
Menurutnya lagi, ISA "tidak lagi mempunyai tempat dalam Malaysia, dalam dunia dan dalam era ini".
Ahli parlimen Kuala Langat, Abdullah Sani pula berkata, dakwaan Teresa melarang laungan azan di negeri itu datang dari pembangkang di Selangor.
Mempersoalkan penangkapan itu, beliau berkata: "Kenapa pembangkang tidak ditangkap?"
Beliau meminta Menteri Dalam Negeri, Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar prihatin dengan perkara itu dan membebaskan Teresa segera.
Adun Ulu Klang, Shaaari Sungip yang telah dua kali ditahan di bawah ISA berkata penangkapan kali ini sama dengan Operasi Lalang yang menggunakan alasan agama dan perkauman dan diperkukuhkan
melalui media.
Beliau berkata, penggunaan ISA boleh memberikan kesan trauma.
Beliau menyifatkan tindakan itu tidak demokratik sedangkan Teresa dipilih oleh rakyat secara demokratik melalui proses pilihanraya.
Exco kesihatan, Xavier Jayakumar mahu dihentikan penggunaan undang-undang "drakonian" seperti ISA dan akta Hasutan, dan sebaliknya menggunakan saluran undang-undang dan dibawa ke mahkamah.
Datuk Dr Hassan Ali pula menyifatkan penangkapan itu sebagai usaha BN menggagalkan pembentukan kerajan baru kerajaan oleh Pakatan.
"Perubahan kerajaan akan tetap berlaku sama ada sebelum atau selepas 16 September," katanya.
Hannah Yeoh turut menunjukkan ketidakselesaan terhadap penangkapan itu.
Kepimpinan utama negeri Selangor meminta kerajaan persekutuan supaya membebaskan segera exco negeri itu, Teresa Kok dan Raja Petra Kamaruddin yang ditahan di bawah Akta Keselamatan Dalam Negeri (ISA) semalam.
Wartawan Sin Chew Daily, Tan Hoon Cheng yang turut ditahan di bawah ISA semalam, telah dibebaskan hari ini.
Menteri Besar, Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim menuntut Teresa, yang juga ahli dewan undangan negeri (Adun) Kinrara itu, dibebaskan dalam tempoh selewat-lewatnya dua hari.Abdul Khalid berkata, tidak ada sebab pemimpin DAP itu perlu ditangkap.
Beliau yang kesal dengan penangkapan Teresa, meyifatkan penggunaan ISA sebagai tidak menyelesaikan masalah dalam negara.
Menurut Abdul Khalid lagi, penggunaannya juga "tidak sesuai, tidak munasabah, 'low class' dan menjatuhkan nama baik Malaysia di peringkat antarabangsa".
"ISA tidak lagi perlu di saat rakyat matang dan bakal menyambut ulang tahun kemerdekaan negara ke-51," katanya dalam sidang media bersama Adun dan wakil rakyat Pakatan Rakyat di kediamannya di Shah Alam petang tadi.
Ekoran itu, tegas Khalid, kerajan negeri akan memberikan bantuan guaman dan kosnya akan ditanggung oleh kerajaan negeri.
Katanya, beliau akan berbincang dengan penasihat undang-undang Selangor dan memfailkan petisyen habeas corpus.
Kecam tangkapan Teresa
Diminta mengulas kesannya sekiranya usaha itu gagal, Abdul Khalid berkata, Teresa masih lagi "ada kerusi" sebagai Adun dan ahli parlimen.
Jawatannnya sebagai exco kerajaan negeri juga tidak berubah, tambahnya.
Sementara itu, kebanyakan wakil rakyat Pakatan memberikan reaksi tidak selesa dan mengecam penangkapan Teresa itu.
Speaker Dewan Undangan Negeri Selangor, Teng Cheng Khim yang terkejut dengan penahanan itu berkata, beliau terkilan dengan penahanan itu sejurus selepas Teresa (foto) memberikan taklimat kepada delegasi pelabur dari Guang Dong, China malam tadi."Bagaimana orang yang menarik pelaburan asing dari luar negara boleh dianggap sebagai mengancam keselamatan negara?" katanya.
Exco pendidikan, Haliman Ali pula berkata jika penangkapan Teresa dibuat atas alasan beliau melarang penggunaan pembesar suara untuk azan di masjid di negeri itu, perkara itu tidak boleh diterima.
Dalam mesyuarat exco Rabu lalu, katanya, Teresa telah menafikan bahawa beliau terlibat dalam larangan itu.
Menurut Adun PAS itu, dalam Islam, kalau benar beliau bersalah sekalipun, penangkapan tanpa bicara tetap tidak boleh dilakukan.
Kesan trauma
Menurutnya lagi, ISA "tidak lagi mempunyai tempat dalam Malaysia, dalam dunia dan dalam era ini".
Ahli parlimen Kuala Langat, Abdullah Sani pula berkata, dakwaan Teresa melarang laungan azan di negeri itu datang dari pembangkang di Selangor.
Mempersoalkan penangkapan itu, beliau berkata: "Kenapa pembangkang tidak ditangkap?"
Beliau meminta Menteri Dalam Negeri, Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar prihatin dengan perkara itu dan membebaskan Teresa segera.
Adun Ulu Klang, Shaaari Sungip yang telah dua kali ditahan di bawah ISA berkata penangkapan kali ini sama dengan Operasi Lalang yang menggunakan alasan agama dan perkauman dan diperkukuhkan
melalui media.
Beliau berkata, penggunaan ISA boleh memberikan kesan trauma.
Beliau menyifatkan tindakan itu tidak demokratik sedangkan Teresa dipilih oleh rakyat secara demokratik melalui proses pilihanraya.
Exco kesihatan, Xavier Jayakumar mahu dihentikan penggunaan undang-undang "drakonian" seperti ISA dan akta Hasutan, dan sebaliknya menggunakan saluran undang-undang dan dibawa ke mahkamah.
Datuk Dr Hassan Ali pula menyifatkan penangkapan itu sebagai usaha BN menggagalkan pembentukan kerajan baru kerajaan oleh Pakatan.
"Perubahan kerajaan akan tetap berlaku sama ada sebelum atau selepas 16 September," katanya.
Hannah Yeoh turut menunjukkan ketidakselesaan terhadap penangkapan itu.
Arrests are attempt to cover up real issue: PAS - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 13, 2008 By ZULKIFLI ABD RAHMAN
The arrests of three people under the Internal Security Act (ISA) are part of the Government’s attempt to foil the planned crossover of Barisan Nasional MPs to the Pakatan Rakyat by Sept 16, PAS youth chief Salahuddin Ayub said on Saturday.
He added the arrests are also to cover up the real issue that the Barisan was undergoing a political crisis and was weakening.
“The arrests were similar to the Operasi Lallang in 1987, where arrests under the ISA were made at the same time when Umno was heading towards a political crisis.
“In this context, we have information that about 15 more people from the Pakatan Rakyat may be detained under the Act to deflect people's attention away from Umno’s internal problems.
“We expect these arrests will happen at any time soon,” he told reporters Saturday at the PAS headquarters here.
Salahuddin questioned why Malaysia Today news portal editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin was not questioned by the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) or charged in the Syariah Court due to the alleged accusations that he had belittled Islam in his articles.
He also said the reports about Seputeh MP and Selangor senior executive councillor Teresa Kok being involved in a residents’ petition in Puchong over a mosque could have caused misunderstanding and become misintepreted.
“There are other laws that can be used against her but certainly not the ISA,” he added.
Meanwhile, PAS information chief Mahfuz Omar told reporters in a separate press conference that the ISA arrests seemed to show that the Government didn’t trust its own laws and the legal system that could adequately deal with the offences committed by the three who were arrested Friday.
“Is it because the Government doesn’t like the country’s courts and its judiciary, which may not rule in its favour?” he added.
On the arrest of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng, Mahfuz questioned why she was arrested for reporting the statement made by Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail, whereas it was Ahmad himself who should be detained for raising communal issues.
Tan was released on Saturday.
The arrests of three people under the Internal Security Act (ISA) are part of the Government’s attempt to foil the planned crossover of Barisan Nasional MPs to the Pakatan Rakyat by Sept 16, PAS youth chief Salahuddin Ayub said on Saturday.
He added the arrests are also to cover up the real issue that the Barisan was undergoing a political crisis and was weakening.
“The arrests were similar to the Operasi Lallang in 1987, where arrests under the ISA were made at the same time when Umno was heading towards a political crisis.
“In this context, we have information that about 15 more people from the Pakatan Rakyat may be detained under the Act to deflect people's attention away from Umno’s internal problems.
“We expect these arrests will happen at any time soon,” he told reporters Saturday at the PAS headquarters here.
Salahuddin questioned why Malaysia Today news portal editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin was not questioned by the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) or charged in the Syariah Court due to the alleged accusations that he had belittled Islam in his articles.
He also said the reports about Seputeh MP and Selangor senior executive councillor Teresa Kok being involved in a residents’ petition in Puchong over a mosque could have caused misunderstanding and become misintepreted.
“There are other laws that can be used against her but certainly not the ISA,” he added.
Meanwhile, PAS information chief Mahfuz Omar told reporters in a separate press conference that the ISA arrests seemed to show that the Government didn’t trust its own laws and the legal system that could adequately deal with the offences committed by the three who were arrested Friday.
“Is it because the Government doesn’t like the country’s courts and its judiciary, which may not rule in its favour?” he added.
On the arrest of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng, Mahfuz questioned why she was arrested for reporting the statement made by Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail, whereas it was Ahmad himself who should be detained for raising communal issues.
Tan was released on Saturday.
Stop playing the race card: Anwar - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 13, 208 By ROYCE CHEAH and LISA GOH
Pakatan Rakyat wants Umno to stop playing the race card for the sake of political stability, Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
Anwar said the opposition coalition did not want to allow the Government to create uncertainty or instability by using the race card whenever they were pushed into a corner.
“This is clearly an act of desperation. We urge the Government to respect the laws of the land,” he told reporters Saturday at an impromptu press conference at the PKR headquarters here.
Anwar said this when referring spefically to the detention of Seputeh MP and Selangor senior executive councillor Teresa Kok under the Internal Security Act (ISA), while also condemning the arrests of Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng.
Anwar said the race card was used when detaining Kok and it was the Government’s way of suggesting that the Malays should not express their concern about such action.
“I am a Malay and a Muslim and I think it is grossly unjust for any Malay or Muslim to condone injustice,” he said.
When asked if the opposition would have to defer its Sept 16 plan to take over the government, Anwar said of utmost importance now was national unity and political stability.
“This is why we are now demanding for an urgent closed-door meeting between our representative and the Prime Minister to discuss national security and the future of Malaysian politics.”
Anwar said deferring the takeover date was not an issue as he claimed that the opposition had the requisite number of MPs, but added that the use of the ISA was definitely to intimidate the rakyat and the opposition.
“We will move (to take over the government) in accordance with the constitutional provision and the mandate that we have.”
On whether he had heard that more opposition MPs would be arrested, Anwar said he had heard of the possibility of a second wave of arrests.
“We are mindful of that fact but we should not feel threatened. It is Umno and Barisan Nasional that should feel threatened by public sentiment clamouring for change.”
Anwar added that he wanted the crackdown to stop and promised that all ISA detainees would be released when the opposition forms the government.
Pakatan Rakyat wants Umno to stop playing the race card for the sake of political stability, Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.Anwar said the opposition coalition did not want to allow the Government to create uncertainty or instability by using the race card whenever they were pushed into a corner.
“This is clearly an act of desperation. We urge the Government to respect the laws of the land,” he told reporters Saturday at an impromptu press conference at the PKR headquarters here.
Anwar said this when referring spefically to the detention of Seputeh MP and Selangor senior executive councillor Teresa Kok under the Internal Security Act (ISA), while also condemning the arrests of Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin and Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng.
Anwar said the race card was used when detaining Kok and it was the Government’s way of suggesting that the Malays should not express their concern about such action.
“I am a Malay and a Muslim and I think it is grossly unjust for any Malay or Muslim to condone injustice,” he said.
When asked if the opposition would have to defer its Sept 16 plan to take over the government, Anwar said of utmost importance now was national unity and political stability.
“This is why we are now demanding for an urgent closed-door meeting between our representative and the Prime Minister to discuss national security and the future of Malaysian politics.”
Anwar said deferring the takeover date was not an issue as he claimed that the opposition had the requisite number of MPs, but added that the use of the ISA was definitely to intimidate the rakyat and the opposition.
“We will move (to take over the government) in accordance with the constitutional provision and the mandate that we have.”
On whether he had heard that more opposition MPs would be arrested, Anwar said he had heard of the possibility of a second wave of arrests.
“We are mindful of that fact but we should not feel threatened. It is Umno and Barisan Nasional that should feel threatened by public sentiment clamouring for change.”
Anwar added that he wanted the crackdown to stop and promised that all ISA detainees would be released when the opposition forms the government.
Tian Chua: Takeover plan on track - Star
SEPANG: Sept 13, 2008
Two PKR leaders who set off for Taiwan claim that Pakatan Rakyat’s plan to take over the Government on Sept 16 is on track.
Information chief Tian Chua said that what remained was ironing out technicalities to ensure a peaceful transition. He also said they were not heading to Taiwan for fear that the supposed detractors would change their mind.
Taiwan bound: (From left) Saifuddin, Tian Chua, PKR council member and Sungai Petani MP Johari Abdul, Low and Wong leaving for Taiwan at KLIA yesterday.
“We have the numbers already. We are just going there to have coffee and spend time with them and also learn about agriculture from Taiwan so that we do not get left behind when Pakatan Rakyat takes over.”
Tian Chua, who is also Batu MP, is leading a group of five PKR leaders to Taiwan and was met by reporters at the KL International Airport before boarding a 2.20pm China Airlines flight to Taiwan yesterday.
Also on the flight were PKR strategic director and Machang MP Saifuddin Nasution, supreme council member Low Chee Cheong and Selangor state executive councillor Elizabeth Wong.
Election bureau deputy head and Kuantan MP Fuziah Salleh caught an earlier flight to Taiwan.
Chua also said it was PKR’s responsibility as an opposition party to monitor the backbenchers’ expenses and ensure there was no abuse.
He said the trip was significant for PKR where they hoped to share with the Barisan MPs how Taiwan had developed from a dictatorship to a healthy democracy with checks and balance.
Saifuddin said MPs could show their support without leaving their party while the crossover could happen in three ways – by individuals, component parties or by group.
“Do we have the numbers? Yes. Do we have to reveal the names now? No. Some are in Taiwan and some are here,” he said.
He said his task was to speak with the Barisan MPs and the numbers were already secured ”some time ago.”
A group of Barisan backbenchers left for Taiwan on Monday to learn about agriculture in a move that was seen as a ploy to avoid potential crossovers and to derail Pakatan Rakyat’s Sept 16 takeover plan.
The backbenchers’ programme ended yesterday and some MPs are expected to return home today. The PKR leaders are expected to return on Sunday.
Two PKR leaders who set off for Taiwan claim that Pakatan Rakyat’s plan to take over the Government on Sept 16 is on track.
Information chief Tian Chua said that what remained was ironing out technicalities to ensure a peaceful transition. He also said they were not heading to Taiwan for fear that the supposed detractors would change their mind.
Taiwan bound: (From left) Saifuddin, Tian Chua, PKR council member and Sungai Petani MP Johari Abdul, Low and Wong leaving for Taiwan at KLIA yesterday.“We have the numbers already. We are just going there to have coffee and spend time with them and also learn about agriculture from Taiwan so that we do not get left behind when Pakatan Rakyat takes over.”
Tian Chua, who is also Batu MP, is leading a group of five PKR leaders to Taiwan and was met by reporters at the KL International Airport before boarding a 2.20pm China Airlines flight to Taiwan yesterday.
Also on the flight were PKR strategic director and Machang MP Saifuddin Nasution, supreme council member Low Chee Cheong and Selangor state executive councillor Elizabeth Wong.
Election bureau deputy head and Kuantan MP Fuziah Salleh caught an earlier flight to Taiwan.
Chua also said it was PKR’s responsibility as an opposition party to monitor the backbenchers’ expenses and ensure there was no abuse.
He said the trip was significant for PKR where they hoped to share with the Barisan MPs how Taiwan had developed from a dictatorship to a healthy democracy with checks and balance.
Saifuddin said MPs could show their support without leaving their party while the crossover could happen in three ways – by individuals, component parties or by group.
“Do we have the numbers? Yes. Do we have to reveal the names now? No. Some are in Taiwan and some are here,” he said.
He said his task was to speak with the Barisan MPs and the numbers were already secured ”some time ago.”
A group of Barisan backbenchers left for Taiwan on Monday to learn about agriculture in a move that was seen as a ploy to avoid potential crossovers and to derail Pakatan Rakyat’s Sept 16 takeover plan.
The backbenchers’ programme ended yesterday and some MPs are expected to return home today. The PKR leaders are expected to return on Sunday.
Sin Chew reporter released - Star
GEORGE TOWN: Sept 13, 2008 By CHRISTINA CHIN
Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng has been released. Penang state police chief Deputy Comm Datuk Wira Ayub Yaakub said Tan was sent to her house in Bukit Mertajam at 4.15pm.
She was released Saturday after a one-day detention under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng has been released. Penang state police chief Deputy Comm Datuk Wira Ayub Yaakub said Tan was sent to her house in Bukit Mertajam at 4.15pm.She was released Saturday after a one-day detention under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
NUJ express anger over Tan's arrest - Malaysiakini
Syed Jaymal Zahiid | Sep 13, 08 3:02pm
National Union of Journalists (NUJ) president Norila Mohd Daud today blasted the arrest of Sin Chew Daily journalist Tan Hoon Cheng under the Internal Security Act as unfair and called for her immediate release.
Speaking to a press conference held at the police headquarters Bukit Aman this noon, the NUJ president said there was no need to detain Tan under ISA.
If the authorities feel that Tan has committed an offence, she should be charged under normal criminal laws and be tried and not be detained under the ISA," lamented Norila.
Norila also said that action should be taken against suspended Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Ahmad Ismail instead for his racial remarks and not against the Sin Chew journalist.
"Its unfair. It was Ahmad that made the racial remarks and not Tan. She merely did a write up on what had transpired. They should charge Ahmad instead," said Norila.
More news at: www.malaysiakini.com
National Union of Journalists (NUJ) president Norila Mohd Daud today blasted the arrest of Sin Chew Daily journalist Tan Hoon Cheng under the Internal Security Act as unfair and called for her immediate release.Speaking to a press conference held at the police headquarters Bukit Aman this noon, the NUJ president said there was no need to detain Tan under ISA.
If the authorities feel that Tan has committed an offence, she should be charged under normal criminal laws and be tried and not be detained under the ISA," lamented Norila.
Norila also said that action should be taken against suspended Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Ahmad Ismail instead for his racial remarks and not against the Sin Chew journalist.
"Its unfair. It was Ahmad that made the racial remarks and not Tan. She merely did a write up on what had transpired. They should charge Ahmad instead," said Norila.
More news at: www.malaysiakini.com
Candlelight vigil for Teresa tonight
Sept 13, 2008 Posted by Lim Kit Siang
Candlelight vigil for Teresa Kok tonight 7pm at DAP PJ HQ.
Public is welcome. Please pass the word around.
No 24, Jalan 20/9, Paramount Garden,
46300, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Tel: +603-79578022/79578127
* Female comrades are requested to wear DAP t-shirts.
==============================================================
Malaysia in the grip of another ISA madness?
A second Internal Security Act (ISA) arrest in less than eight hours after RPK – the Sin Chew Daily senior journalist Tan Hoon Cheng, 33, who reported that Umno Bukit Bendera division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail’s speech at a Permatang Pauh by-election ceramah on August 23 that the Chinese in Malaysia are “squatters” in the country and which resulted in a nation-wide furore and political crisis.
Ahmad got off lightly with a three-year Umno suspension but why is the Sin Chew Daily reporter detained under the ISA, when her report had been confirmed as true when Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Umno President Datuk Seri Najib had apologised “on behalf” of Ahmad?
Although Ahmad did not “recognise” Najib’s apology on his behalf, the Deputy Prime Minister’s apology is confirmation that Tan’s report was correct, especially as Najib was present when Ahmad had given the controversial speech at the Umno ceramah during the Permatang Pauh by-election.
Will the two reporters, one from Guang Ming and the other from Nanyang, who had collaborated Tan’s report of Ahmad Ismail’s speech be next on the ISA crackdown? What about all those columnists who had flayed Ahmad for his provocative, inflammatory and racist speech - are they all marked for the Kamunting Detention Centre?
Is Malaysia in the grip of another ISA madness, akin to Operation Lalang 21 years ago when there were mass arrests under the ISA (with Guan Eng and I among the first of the 106 persons to be arrested but were the last two to be released) and closure of three newspapers?
Ministers and leaders of MCA, Gerakan, MIC, SUPP and other Barisan Nasional component parties must demand in the Cabinet and requisition an emergency meeting of the Barisan Nasional Supreme Council for the immediate release of Tan and Raja Petra under the ISA as well as the withdrawal of the show cause notice issued by the Home Ministry to three newspapers as to why action should not be taken against them.
Their political parties had pledged after the debacle in the March general election that they would cease to be puppets and “yes-men” and would speak up for the rights of all Malaysians.
Tan Hoon Cheng and RPK are critical tests whether they meant what they say – in Cabinet and the Barisan Nasional Supreme Council – or they remain stuck in their incorrigible roles of being totally subservient to Umno “Big Brother”!
Candlelight vigil for Teresa Kok tonight 7pm at DAP PJ HQ.Public is welcome. Please pass the word around.
No 24, Jalan 20/9, Paramount Garden,
46300, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Tel: +603-79578022/79578127
* Female comrades are requested to wear DAP t-shirts.
==============================================================
Malaysia in the grip of another ISA madness?
A second Internal Security Act (ISA) arrest in less than eight hours after RPK – the Sin Chew Daily senior journalist Tan Hoon Cheng, 33, who reported that Umno Bukit Bendera division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail’s speech at a Permatang Pauh by-election ceramah on August 23 that the Chinese in Malaysia are “squatters” in the country and which resulted in a nation-wide furore and political crisis.
Ahmad got off lightly with a three-year Umno suspension but why is the Sin Chew Daily reporter detained under the ISA, when her report had been confirmed as true when Deputy Prime Minister and Deputy Umno President Datuk Seri Najib had apologised “on behalf” of Ahmad?
Although Ahmad did not “recognise” Najib’s apology on his behalf, the Deputy Prime Minister’s apology is confirmation that Tan’s report was correct, especially as Najib was present when Ahmad had given the controversial speech at the Umno ceramah during the Permatang Pauh by-election.
Will the two reporters, one from Guang Ming and the other from Nanyang, who had collaborated Tan’s report of Ahmad Ismail’s speech be next on the ISA crackdown? What about all those columnists who had flayed Ahmad for his provocative, inflammatory and racist speech - are they all marked for the Kamunting Detention Centre?
Is Malaysia in the grip of another ISA madness, akin to Operation Lalang 21 years ago when there were mass arrests under the ISA (with Guan Eng and I among the first of the 106 persons to be arrested but were the last two to be released) and closure of three newspapers?
Ministers and leaders of MCA, Gerakan, MIC, SUPP and other Barisan Nasional component parties must demand in the Cabinet and requisition an emergency meeting of the Barisan Nasional Supreme Council for the immediate release of Tan and Raja Petra under the ISA as well as the withdrawal of the show cause notice issued by the Home Ministry to three newspapers as to why action should not be taken against them.
Their political parties had pledged after the debacle in the March general election that they would cease to be puppets and “yes-men” and would speak up for the rights of all Malaysians.
Tan Hoon Cheng and RPK are critical tests whether they meant what they say – in Cabinet and the Barisan Nasional Supreme Council – or they remain stuck in their incorrigible roles of being totally subservient to Umno “Big Brother”!
Washington summons Malaysian envoy - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 13, 2008
The United States has summoned Ilango Karuppannan, the charge d’affaires of the Malaysian embassy, to protest what it called the “crackdown on dissent” at a time when the opposition was attempting to form a new government.
According to the AFP, Ilango was summoned to the State Department after the three arrests under the Internal Security Act (ISA) on Friday.
”Peaceful expression of political opinions is a fundamental right and critical to a democracy,” a State Department official told AFP.
”The United States believes that the Malaysian Government should provide due process and treatment consistent with Malaysian law and international standards,” said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
”We expect that democratic countries that purport to advocate free expression of political views will not curtail such freedom,” the official said.
This is the second time Ilango was summoned to the State Department in a month.
The last time was when PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was charged with sodomy.
”The United States firmly believes that freedom of the press and freedom of speech are fundamental to a vibrant democracy,” the State Department official said.
The United States has summoned Ilango Karuppannan, the charge d’affaires of the Malaysian embassy, to protest what it called the “crackdown on dissent” at a time when the opposition was attempting to form a new government.
According to the AFP, Ilango was summoned to the State Department after the three arrests under the Internal Security Act (ISA) on Friday.
”Peaceful expression of political opinions is a fundamental right and critical to a democracy,” a State Department official told AFP.
”The United States believes that the Malaysian Government should provide due process and treatment consistent with Malaysian law and international standards,” said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
”We expect that democratic countries that purport to advocate free expression of political views will not curtail such freedom,” the official said.
This is the second time Ilango was summoned to the State Department in a month.
The last time was when PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was charged with sodomy.
”The United States firmly believes that freedom of the press and freedom of speech are fundamental to a vibrant democracy,” the State Department official said.
Operasi ISA ketika pembangkang berusaha ambil alih kuasa - Malaysiakini
Sep 13, 08 2:52am
Gambar ikhsan Akhbar The Star
Polis telah menahan seorang ahli politik pembangkang, seorang blogger terkemuka dan seorang wartawan dalam satu operasi mengejut ketika pihak pembangkang merancang untuk mengambil alih kuasa.
Ketiga-tiga mereka ditahan di bawah Akta Keselamatan Dalam Negeri (ISA) yang membolehkan mereka ditahan tanpa bicara, yang turut digunakan sebelum ini, ke atas mereka yang tidak sehaluan dengan kerajaan.
Para pemerhati politik berkata, mereka bimbang Barisan Nasional - yang dimalukan dengan kekalahan teruk dalam pilihanraya umum Mac lalu dan kini diancam pula dengan rancangan pembangkang untuk mengambil alih kuasa - merancang untuk melancarkan gerakan penahanan sepertimana pada tahun 1987.
"Apakah Malaysia kini dicengkam satu lagi kegilaan ISA, sepertimana Operasi Lalang 21 tahun lalu apabila ramai yang ditahan di bawah ISA dan tiga akhbar ditutup?" kata ahli Parlimen Ipoh Timur, Lim Kit Siang yang turut ditahan dalam operasi tahun 1987 itu.
Blogger terkemuka Malaysia dan editor Malaysia Today, Raja Petra Kamaruddin, merupakan yang pertama ditahan di bawah ISA tengahari semalam.
Kemudian, Tan Hoon Cheng, wartawan akhbar berbahasa Cina, Sin Chew Daily, ditahan malam tadi selepas melaporkan kenyataan seorang pemimpin Umno yang didakwa berkata kaum Cina "menumpang" di negara ini.
Laporan Tan telah mencetuskan pertikaian yang hebat dalam gabungan Barisan Nasional yang dianggotai parti-parti komponen yang berasaskan kaum. Umno - selaku tulang belakang BN - terpaksa bertindak menghukum pemimpin berkenaan.
"Rakan-rakannya (Tan) dari Sin Chew Daily terperanjat dengan penahanannya," kata akhbar tersebut dalam satu kenyataan.
"Sin Chew Daily akan berpegang teguh kepada pendirian editorial kami," tambahnya.
Sementara itu, Teresa Kok, seorang ahli Parlimen dari DAP - sebuah parti dalam barisan pembangkang - Pakatan Rakyat - juga turut ditahan di bawah ISA.
Sementara tidak banyak maklumat yang diperolehi mengenainyha, Teresa berdepan dengan dakwaan yang beliau telah mengadu bunyi bising pembesar suara dari sebuah masjid di Puchong.
Teresa telah menafikan dakwaan tersebut dan berkata tuduhan terhadapnya itu "tidak masuk akal".
ISA yang ditentang oleh badan-badan hak asasi manusia supaya dimansuhkan, membolehkan seseorang itu ditahan selama dua tanpa bicara dan boleh dilanjutkan tempohnya setiap dua tahun berikutnya. Ia biasanya digunakan untuk menahan suspek keganasan.
Pembangkang yang diketui oleh Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yang merancang untuk mengambil kuasa minggu depan, mengecam tindakan menggunakan ISA sebagai "kejam dan tiada justifikasinya".
Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi dipercayai melancarkan operasi penahanan tersebut untuk memperkukuhkan kedudukannya dalam Umno.
Beliau semakin berdepan dengan desakan dari pemimpin-pemimpin parti tersebut supaya melepaskan jawatannya lebih awal daripada yang dijanjikannya - untuk menyerahkan kuasa kepada timbalannya pada pertengahan tahun 2010.
Surat tunjuk sebab
Sementara itu, Pusat Wartawan Bebas (CIJ) berkata operasi penahanan tersebut "mempunyai persamaan yang membimbangkan dengan Operasi Lalang pada 1987" di mana berpuluh-puluh aktivis, artis, ali akademik dan ahli politik telah ditahan.
"Kedua-dua insiden itu adalah sama kerana ianya ada kaitan dengan krisis politik yang melanda Umno, tetapi dimanifestasikan oleh kerajaan sebagai dakwaan ketegangan kaum," katanya dalam satu kenyataan.
Tiga akhbar - Sin Chew Daily; akhbar berbahasa Inggeris, The Sun dan akhbar rasmi PKR - Suara Keadilan - juga telah diberi surat tunjuk sebab berhubung laporan mereka mengenai perkembangan politik semasa.
Ketiga-tiganya mendapat surat tunjuk sebab itu dari kementerian dalam negeri, yang meminta mereka menjelaskan tindakan tidak boleh diambil terhadap mereka atau berdepan dengan tindakan digantung penerbitan.
Gambar ikhsan Akhbar The StarPolis telah menahan seorang ahli politik pembangkang, seorang blogger terkemuka dan seorang wartawan dalam satu operasi mengejut ketika pihak pembangkang merancang untuk mengambil alih kuasa.
Ketiga-tiga mereka ditahan di bawah Akta Keselamatan Dalam Negeri (ISA) yang membolehkan mereka ditahan tanpa bicara, yang turut digunakan sebelum ini, ke atas mereka yang tidak sehaluan dengan kerajaan.
Para pemerhati politik berkata, mereka bimbang Barisan Nasional - yang dimalukan dengan kekalahan teruk dalam pilihanraya umum Mac lalu dan kini diancam pula dengan rancangan pembangkang untuk mengambil alih kuasa - merancang untuk melancarkan gerakan penahanan sepertimana pada tahun 1987.
"Apakah Malaysia kini dicengkam satu lagi kegilaan ISA, sepertimana Operasi Lalang 21 tahun lalu apabila ramai yang ditahan di bawah ISA dan tiga akhbar ditutup?" kata ahli Parlimen Ipoh Timur, Lim Kit Siang yang turut ditahan dalam operasi tahun 1987 itu.
Blogger terkemuka Malaysia dan editor Malaysia Today, Raja Petra Kamaruddin, merupakan yang pertama ditahan di bawah ISA tengahari semalam.
Kemudian, Tan Hoon Cheng, wartawan akhbar berbahasa Cina, Sin Chew Daily, ditahan malam tadi selepas melaporkan kenyataan seorang pemimpin Umno yang didakwa berkata kaum Cina "menumpang" di negara ini.
Laporan Tan telah mencetuskan pertikaian yang hebat dalam gabungan Barisan Nasional yang dianggotai parti-parti komponen yang berasaskan kaum. Umno - selaku tulang belakang BN - terpaksa bertindak menghukum pemimpin berkenaan.
"Rakan-rakannya (Tan) dari Sin Chew Daily terperanjat dengan penahanannya," kata akhbar tersebut dalam satu kenyataan.
"Sin Chew Daily akan berpegang teguh kepada pendirian editorial kami," tambahnya.
Sementara itu, Teresa Kok, seorang ahli Parlimen dari DAP - sebuah parti dalam barisan pembangkang - Pakatan Rakyat - juga turut ditahan di bawah ISA.
Sementara tidak banyak maklumat yang diperolehi mengenainyha, Teresa berdepan dengan dakwaan yang beliau telah mengadu bunyi bising pembesar suara dari sebuah masjid di Puchong.
Teresa telah menafikan dakwaan tersebut dan berkata tuduhan terhadapnya itu "tidak masuk akal".
ISA yang ditentang oleh badan-badan hak asasi manusia supaya dimansuhkan, membolehkan seseorang itu ditahan selama dua tanpa bicara dan boleh dilanjutkan tempohnya setiap dua tahun berikutnya. Ia biasanya digunakan untuk menahan suspek keganasan.
Pembangkang yang diketui oleh Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yang merancang untuk mengambil kuasa minggu depan, mengecam tindakan menggunakan ISA sebagai "kejam dan tiada justifikasinya".
Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi dipercayai melancarkan operasi penahanan tersebut untuk memperkukuhkan kedudukannya dalam Umno.
Beliau semakin berdepan dengan desakan dari pemimpin-pemimpin parti tersebut supaya melepaskan jawatannya lebih awal daripada yang dijanjikannya - untuk menyerahkan kuasa kepada timbalannya pada pertengahan tahun 2010.
Surat tunjuk sebab
Sementara itu, Pusat Wartawan Bebas (CIJ) berkata operasi penahanan tersebut "mempunyai persamaan yang membimbangkan dengan Operasi Lalang pada 1987" di mana berpuluh-puluh aktivis, artis, ali akademik dan ahli politik telah ditahan.
"Kedua-dua insiden itu adalah sama kerana ianya ada kaitan dengan krisis politik yang melanda Umno, tetapi dimanifestasikan oleh kerajaan sebagai dakwaan ketegangan kaum," katanya dalam satu kenyataan.
Tiga akhbar - Sin Chew Daily; akhbar berbahasa Inggeris, The Sun dan akhbar rasmi PKR - Suara Keadilan - juga telah diberi surat tunjuk sebab berhubung laporan mereka mengenai perkembangan politik semasa.
Ketiga-tiganya mendapat surat tunjuk sebab itu dari kementerian dalam negeri, yang meminta mereka menjelaskan tindakan tidak boleh diambil terhadap mereka atau berdepan dengan tindakan digantung penerbitan.
Solidarity Vigil for RPK, Teresa Kok and Miss Tan : Release Them NOW!
Sept 13, 2008
Gerakan Mansuhkan ISA (GMI) together with other friends and NGO will hold a solidarity vigil for Raja Petra Kamarudin, MP Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily journalist Miss Tan Hoon Cheng who has been arrested under the draconian ISA. The details of the program as follows:
Date: 13 September 2008 (Saturday)
Place: Bukit Aman Entrance
Time: 8.30pm
We hope everyone will be joining with us and urge the government to release them immediately. We hope this message will be passed to everyone. Let’s fight for a better Malaysia without ISA.
For further info please contact Miss Nalini, 019 3758912.
Vigil outside Bukit Aman tonight - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 13, 2008
The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on all journalists to turn up outside Bukit Aman police headquarters for a candlelight vigil at 8.30pm Saturday.
The vigil is to show support for Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng who was detained under the Internal Security Act last night.
NUJ has also urged all journalists to turn up outside every Sin Chew Daily News office in Malaysia from Sunday to hold vigils in support of Tan.
Gerakan Mansuhkan ISA (GMI) together with other friends and NGO will hold a solidarity vigil for Raja Petra Kamarudin, MP Teresa Kok and Sin Chew Daily journalist Miss Tan Hoon Cheng who has been arrested under the draconian ISA. The details of the program as follows:Date: 13 September 2008 (Saturday)
Place: Bukit Aman Entrance
Time: 8.30pm
We hope everyone will be joining with us and urge the government to release them immediately. We hope this message will be passed to everyone. Let’s fight for a better Malaysia without ISA.
For further info please contact Miss Nalini, 019 3758912.
Vigil outside Bukit Aman tonight - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 13, 2008
The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on all journalists to turn up outside Bukit Aman police headquarters for a candlelight vigil at 8.30pm Saturday.
The vigil is to show support for Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng who was detained under the Internal Security Act last night.
NUJ has also urged all journalists to turn up outside every Sin Chew Daily News office in Malaysia from Sunday to hold vigils in support of Tan.
MCA shocked by arrest of reporter and not perpetrator - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 13, 2008
The MCA has expressed shock that former Bukit Bendera Umno division chairman Datuk Ahmad Ismail, who made racist remarks has not been taken to task but reporter Tan Hoon Cheng, who wrote about the incident, has been arrested instead.
“The perpetrator who vowed to conduct a nationwide roadshow on his remarks without any remorse is still at large,” MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat said in a statement yesterday.
He said anybody in his right mind would certainly be stunned by such an arrest targeted at the reporter and not the perpetrator.
MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn said he disagreed with the use of the ISA on Tan.
“As a reporter, Tan was only carrying out duties assigned to her. Her story had gone through the due editorial process before it was printed,” he said.
Information Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the arrest of Raja Petra Kamaruddin was judicious because he ridiculed Islam in his postings which could spark fury among Muslims.
Gerakan president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, meanwhile, urged the Government to bring Raja Petra to trial in court under existing laws.
“This is consistent with Gerakan’s stand that the ISA should be reviewed, if not repealed,” Dr Koh said in a statement.
Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim condemned Raja Petra’s arrest and called for his immediate release.
“Raja Petra should be given access to proper legal counsel, and his wife and children should not be denied an opportunity to visit him while he is held captive,” he said in a statement.
DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang called for Raja Petra’s release as there was no justification for his detention. He said Raja Petra should be charged in court if he had infringed the law, and not held in detention without trial.
The MCA has expressed shock that former Bukit Bendera Umno division chairman Datuk Ahmad Ismail, who made racist remarks has not been taken to task but reporter Tan Hoon Cheng, who wrote about the incident, has been arrested instead.
“The perpetrator who vowed to conduct a nationwide roadshow on his remarks without any remorse is still at large,” MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat said in a statement yesterday.He said anybody in his right mind would certainly be stunned by such an arrest targeted at the reporter and not the perpetrator.
MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn said he disagreed with the use of the ISA on Tan.
“As a reporter, Tan was only carrying out duties assigned to her. Her story had gone through the due editorial process before it was printed,” he said.
Information Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek said the arrest of Raja Petra Kamaruddin was judicious because he ridiculed Islam in his postings which could spark fury among Muslims.
Gerakan president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, meanwhile, urged the Government to bring Raja Petra to trial in court under existing laws.
“This is consistent with Gerakan’s stand that the ISA should be reviewed, if not repealed,” Dr Koh said in a statement.
Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim condemned Raja Petra’s arrest and called for his immediate release.
“Raja Petra should be given access to proper legal counsel, and his wife and children should not be denied an opportunity to visit him while he is held captive,” he said in a statement.
DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang called for Raja Petra’s release as there was no justification for his detention. He said Raja Petra should be charged in court if he had infringed the law, and not held in detention without trial.
Why Raja Petra, Tan and Kok were detained - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 13, 2008
Malaysia Today news portal editor Raja Petra Kamarudin was arrested under the Internal Security Act for allegedly being a threat to security, peace and public order.
Raja Petra, 58, who was arrested under Section 73(1) of the ISA, is alleged to have posted articles deemed seditious and that also belittle Islam.
In custody: Tan (in the back seat) being taken away from the Bandar Perda police station last night.
Last week, the Department of Islamic Development (Jakim) and several Muslim organisations lodged a police report against him for allegedly insulting Malays, Muslims and Islam.
On Sept 6, under The Corridors of Power article posted on Malaysia Today, Raja Petra had hinted that it might be his last article until Sept 16, if he were to be detained under the ISA. He is banking on Anwar’s Sept 16 promise for an early release from ISA.
“Yes, I too have placed not only my money, but also my freedom on Anwar. And if Anwar fails to deliver his promise on Sept 16, not only he but I as well am headed for a fall,” he said in his posting.
Raja Petra, founder of the controversial news portal, was charged in the Sessions Court on Aug 15 on three counts of criminal defamation over his statutory declaration on the murder of Mongolian translator Altantuya Shaariibuu.
Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng is believed to have been arrested over her report on former Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail’s racist remarks while campaigning for the Permatang Pauh by-election last month.
Tan, 32, is an award-winning journalist with nine years of experience. She is a Mass Communication graduate from Universiti Sains Malaysia.
DAP’s Seputeh MP Teresa Kok is also assemblyman for Kinrara and a senior executive councillor in charge of investment, industry and trade.
Kok, 43, is believed to have been picked up in connection with a residents petition in Puchong over a mosque.
Former mentri besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo had allegedly accused Kok of being involved.
She subsequently denied the allegation and demanded an apology from Dr Mohd Khir and the newspaper which reported it.
Malaysia Today news portal editor Raja Petra Kamarudin was arrested under the Internal Security Act for allegedly being a threat to security, peace and public order.Raja Petra, 58, who was arrested under Section 73(1) of the ISA, is alleged to have posted articles deemed seditious and that also belittle Islam.
In custody: Tan (in the back seat) being taken away from the Bandar Perda police station last night.Last week, the Department of Islamic Development (Jakim) and several Muslim organisations lodged a police report against him for allegedly insulting Malays, Muslims and Islam.
On Sept 6, under The Corridors of Power article posted on Malaysia Today, Raja Petra had hinted that it might be his last article until Sept 16, if he were to be detained under the ISA. He is banking on Anwar’s Sept 16 promise for an early release from ISA.
“Yes, I too have placed not only my money, but also my freedom on Anwar. And if Anwar fails to deliver his promise on Sept 16, not only he but I as well am headed for a fall,” he said in his posting.
Raja Petra, founder of the controversial news portal, was charged in the Sessions Court on Aug 15 on three counts of criminal defamation over his statutory declaration on the murder of Mongolian translator Altantuya Shaariibuu.
Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng is believed to have been arrested over her report on former Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail’s racist remarks while campaigning for the Permatang Pauh by-election last month.
Tan, 32, is an award-winning journalist with nine years of experience. She is a Mass Communication graduate from Universiti Sains Malaysia.
DAP’s Seputeh MP Teresa Kok is also assemblyman for Kinrara and a senior executive councillor in charge of investment, industry and trade.
Kok, 43, is believed to have been picked up in connection with a residents petition in Puchong over a mosque.
Former mentri besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo had allegedly accused Kok of being involved.
She subsequently denied the allegation and demanded an apology from Dr Mohd Khir and the newspaper which reported it.
Sin Chew reporter sent to Bukit Aman - Star
PENANG: Sept 13, 2008
GEORGE TOWN: Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng told her parents that she was fine and that they need not worry.
The journalist who was arrested under Section 73(1) of the Internal Security Act 1960 at her home in Bukit Mertajam on Friday night was allowed to see her parents for about 15 minutes Saturday morning.
Tan was detained at the state police contingent headquarters here for about eight hours before being driven off in an unmarked SUV (Naza Sorento) at about 8.30am.
According to state police chief Deputy Comm Datuk Wira Ayub Yaacob, she would be sent to the Bukit Aman Police Headquarters.
Her parents, Tan Booi Siam and Khor Ah Heok, arrived with their son Weng Khian at the headquarters in Penang Road at about 7am.
Penang Chief Minister and DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, state PKR chief Datuk Zahrain Mohd Hashim and several state executive councillors arrived soon after.
Also present were the Chinese daily’s management staff.
Only Tan’s father and mother were allowed to see her. They had brought some dumplings for her breakfast.
Khor, who looked calm despite her red, puffy eyes, said she told her 32-year-old daughter that her family, colleagues in the media and society were strongly supporting her.
“I was happy to see her. She told us not to worry and that she had been treated well while under detention.”
Her brother Weng Khian, 35, said his sister was “brave” and that the family would stand by her.
GEORGE TOWN: Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng told her parents that she was fine and that they need not worry.The journalist who was arrested under Section 73(1) of the Internal Security Act 1960 at her home in Bukit Mertajam on Friday night was allowed to see her parents for about 15 minutes Saturday morning.
Tan was detained at the state police contingent headquarters here for about eight hours before being driven off in an unmarked SUV (Naza Sorento) at about 8.30am.
According to state police chief Deputy Comm Datuk Wira Ayub Yaacob, she would be sent to the Bukit Aman Police Headquarters.
Her parents, Tan Booi Siam and Khor Ah Heok, arrived with their son Weng Khian at the headquarters in Penang Road at about 7am.
Penang Chief Minister and DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, state PKR chief Datuk Zahrain Mohd Hashim and several state executive councillors arrived soon after.
Also present were the Chinese daily’s management staff.
Only Tan’s father and mother were allowed to see her. They had brought some dumplings for her breakfast.
Khor, who looked calm despite her red, puffy eyes, said she told her 32-year-old daughter that her family, colleagues in the media and society were strongly supporting her.
“I was happy to see her. She told us not to worry and that she had been treated well while under detention.”
Her brother Weng Khian, 35, said his sister was “brave” and that the family would stand by her.
'Detention of journalist an act to intimidate media' - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 13, 2008
The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has described the detention of Sin Chew Daily journalist Tan Hoon Cheng under the Internal Security Act as an act to intimidate the media.
General secretary Hong Boon How said: “This sort of action must stop if the Government wants to advocate a freer media in Malaysia.”
He also said yesterday the investigation of the case could have been handled amicably by asking her to report to the police station instead of picking her up at her home.
NUJ general treasurer Martin Vengadesan condemned Tan’s detention as the Umno supreme council had already suspended its Bukit Bendera division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail for three years based on his statement.
“We feel this detention is a case of shooting the messenger. We hope the authorities will release Tan soon,” he said.
Bernama reported that the union’s president Norila Daud voiced concern over the Home Ministry’s show-cause letters to The Sun, Sin Chew Daily and Suara Keadilan for alleged manipulation and highlighting of sensitive issues.
She described the worrying trend as being tantamount to further restriction to press freedom, thus hindering journalists from reporting the truth without fear.
“The union feels the current political temperature was rising because of irresponsible politicians making comments on sensitive issues without thinking what the implications of their remarks would have on the public,” she said in a statement yesterday.
Norila said the media merely reported the facts and was not a party to any issue.
“If these (news)papers were to be closed down or suspended, the livelihood of hundreds of journalists and non-journalists will also be affected,” she said.
The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) has described the detention of Sin Chew Daily journalist Tan Hoon Cheng under the Internal Security Act as an act to intimidate the media.
General secretary Hong Boon How said: “This sort of action must stop if the Government wants to advocate a freer media in Malaysia.”
He also said yesterday the investigation of the case could have been handled amicably by asking her to report to the police station instead of picking her up at her home.
NUJ general treasurer Martin Vengadesan condemned Tan’s detention as the Umno supreme council had already suspended its Bukit Bendera division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail for three years based on his statement.
“We feel this detention is a case of shooting the messenger. We hope the authorities will release Tan soon,” he said.
Bernama reported that the union’s president Norila Daud voiced concern over the Home Ministry’s show-cause letters to The Sun, Sin Chew Daily and Suara Keadilan for alleged manipulation and highlighting of sensitive issues.
She described the worrying trend as being tantamount to further restriction to press freedom, thus hindering journalists from reporting the truth without fear.
“The union feels the current political temperature was rising because of irresponsible politicians making comments on sensitive issues without thinking what the implications of their remarks would have on the public,” she said in a statement yesterday.
Norila said the media merely reported the facts and was not a party to any issue.
“If these (news)papers were to be closed down or suspended, the livelihood of hundreds of journalists and non-journalists will also be affected,” she said.
Operation Lalang (Weeding Operation; also referred to as Ops Lalang) was carried out on October 27, 1987
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Lalang
=====================================================
Operation Lalang (Weeding Operation; also referred to as Ops Lalang) was carried out on October 27, 1987 by the Malaysian police to crack down on opposition leaders and social activists. The operation saw the infamous arrest of 106 persons under the Internal Security Act (ISA) and the revoking of the publishing licenses of two dailies, The Star and the Sin Chew Jit Poh and two weeklies, The Sunday Star and Watan.
Causes
The political developments which brought this second largest ISA swoop in Malaysian history since the May 13 riots, were sparked ostensibly by mounting political tensions having strong racial overtones. According to the White Paper explaining the arrests, various groups who had played up "sensitive issues" and thus created "racial tension" in the country had exploited the government's liberal and tolerant attitude. This racial tension made the arrests necessary and further, forced the government to act "swiftly and firmly" to contain the situation.
Vernacular Chinese school controversy
The sensitive issues were brought on by what appeared innocuously enough as Education Ministry appointments of some 100 senior assistants and principals to vernacular Chinese schools. This provoked a storm of protest when it was learnt that those appointed were Chinese whom were not Mandarin-educated.
Politicians from the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA), the Democratic Action Party (DAP), GERAKAN and major Chinese-based parties joined the protests and on October 11, 1987, the Dong Jiao Zong (Chinese educationists) held a 2,000-strong gathering at the Hainanese Association Building, beside the Thian Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur, which evoked racially provocative speeches from the Chinese politicians present. The meeting resolved to call a three-day boycott in Chinese schools if the government did not settle the appointments issue. The boycott was called off later, albeit at the eleventh hour.
Response by UMNO Youth and detentions
In the event, even though the boycott was cancelled, the stage was set for a mirror response from the Malays, led by UMNO Youth. A mass rally of 10,000 was held at the TPCA Stadium in Kuala Lumpur and, by then, UMNO politicians had began to condemn MCA leaders for their collusion with the Dong Jiao Zong and the opposition DAP. Amidst calls from both sides for the resignations of MCA Deputy President and Labour Minister Lee Kim Sai and UMNO Education Minister Anwar Ibrahim, UMNO announced the holding of a mammoth rally in KL to celebrate its 41st Anniversary, which it was claimed would see the attendance of half a million members.
The proposed UMNO rally was the ostensible reason for the Inspector General of Police to precipitate the 27 October crackdown. Had the rally been held it was not improbable that racial riots could be sparked by the incendiary speeches of UMNO politicians. To make matters worse, a tinder box situation was already created by the rampage of a Malay soldier who killed a Malay and two Chinese with an M16 rifle in the Chow Kit area, straddling two large Chinese and Malay communities.
The pundits have it that the Prime Minister had to have a quid pro quo for cancelling the UMNO rally. Hence the arrests of prominent Chinese politicians. In retrospect, some of the culprits like Lee Kim Sai escaped arrest while many opposition members and activists with nothing to do with racial incitement were put in. Most of the government party people also saw early release while the dissidents generally served detention terms up to two years.
Najib Tun Razak, then-president of the UMNO Youth wing, had led a massive Malay rally in Kampung Baru. The Chinese community was gripped with fear of the possibility of May 13 repeating, and many Chinese businesses around the city was closed for a few days to avoid any potential attacks from the Malay ultra-nationalists.
Detainees
Operation Lalang resulted in the arrest of 106 people under the Internal Security Act. Among the more prominent detainees were opposition leader and DAP Secretary-General Lim Kit Siang, ALIRAN President Chandra Muzaffar, DAP Deputy Chairman Karpal Singh, MCA Vice President and Perak Chief Chan Kit Chee, PAS Youth Chief Halim Arshat, UMNO MP for Pasir Mas Ibrahim Ali, and UMNO Youth Education Chairman Mohamed Fahmi Ibrahim. Other prominent non-political detainees included Dong Jiao Zhong (Chinese Education Associations) Chairman Lim Fong Seng, Publicity Chief of the Civil Rights Committee Kua Kia Soong, and WAO member Irene Xavier. Besides that, there was also another detainee called Hilmy Noor, a Malay Christian, who was accused for "disrupting the Malay culture by being a Christian", while the Federal Constitution of Malaysia defines a Malay as someone who is a Muslim, speaks Malay, and practices Malay culture. The detainees were kept at the usual place used for ISA detainees, at Kamunting Detention Center.
Although most of the detainees were released either conditionally or unconditionally, 40 were issued detention order of two years. Included were Lim Kit Siang and Karpal Singh plus five other party colleagues, a number of PAS members and many social activists. A categorization of the initially named detainees, numbering 97, gives the following breakdown: political parties: 37; social movements: 23; individuals: 37.
Effects on political and press freedom
In any case, the incident provided Mahathir's government with the excuse to further tighten the executive stranglehold on politics.[citation needed]. In the following year, the Printing Presses and Publications Act was amended so that it more difficult for printers and publishers to retain printing licenses eliminating the renewal process. They would have to annually re-apply. In addition if any license is revoked, it could not be challenged in court. A prison term was added for publication of false news, jail sentence for up to three years.
The leading Malaysian English daily, The Star, was closed down for a few months. In the weeks prior to Operation Lalang, The Star had continuously provided transparent news coverage about the Opposition's point of view. This construed treason as far as the government was concerned, and they were shut down under Malaysia's repressive sedition laws. The Star resumed publication months later under new management that was installed by UMNO. Most of the previous staff were laid off or otherwise threatened with prison and ISA. From that point onwards, The Star, as well as many other media outlets in Malaysia, became government-controlled mouthpieces with an obvious pro-government slant. These media outlets were also noticeably whitewashing all of the UMNO government's wrongdoings and corruption. All the cover-up and whitewashing by the mass media became more obvious towards the late-90's, when another power struggle within UMNO (the Mahathir vs Anwar episode) revealed the extent of corruption and crimes among the UMNO executive that have never been revealed or reported.
Amendments were also made to the Police Act making it practically impossible to hold any political meeting, including a party's annual general meeting, without a police permit. A conviction could mean a fine of RM10,000 and a jail term of one year. Even an assembly of more than five people in a public area is considered an "illegal assembly" and could not be held without a police permit. This law was intentionally made to be so restrictive in order to give the police arbitrary rights to detain any group in public by citing it is an illegal assembly.
References
* Chow, Kum Hor (Nov. 6, 2005). "9/11 changed Hu's view of ISA". New Sunday Times, p. 8–9.
* Mahavera, Sheridan (Nov. 6, 2005). "'When you play with fire, you will get burnt'". New Sunday Times, p. 9.
* Othman, M. Husairy (Nov. 6, 2005). "Tajuddin bears no grudges". New Sunday Times, p. 9.
* Tan, Choe Choe (Nov. 6, 2005). "Sim taught detainees Chinese during his stay". New Sunday Times, p. 8.
=====================================================
Operation Lalang (Weeding Operation; also referred to as Ops Lalang) was carried out on October 27, 1987 by the Malaysian police to crack down on opposition leaders and social activists. The operation saw the infamous arrest of 106 persons under the Internal Security Act (ISA) and the revoking of the publishing licenses of two dailies, The Star and the Sin Chew Jit Poh and two weeklies, The Sunday Star and Watan.
Causes
The political developments which brought this second largest ISA swoop in Malaysian history since the May 13 riots, were sparked ostensibly by mounting political tensions having strong racial overtones. According to the White Paper explaining the arrests, various groups who had played up "sensitive issues" and thus created "racial tension" in the country had exploited the government's liberal and tolerant attitude. This racial tension made the arrests necessary and further, forced the government to act "swiftly and firmly" to contain the situation.
Vernacular Chinese school controversy
The sensitive issues were brought on by what appeared innocuously enough as Education Ministry appointments of some 100 senior assistants and principals to vernacular Chinese schools. This provoked a storm of protest when it was learnt that those appointed were Chinese whom were not Mandarin-educated.
Politicians from the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA), the Democratic Action Party (DAP), GERAKAN and major Chinese-based parties joined the protests and on October 11, 1987, the Dong Jiao Zong (Chinese educationists) held a 2,000-strong gathering at the Hainanese Association Building, beside the Thian Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur, which evoked racially provocative speeches from the Chinese politicians present. The meeting resolved to call a three-day boycott in Chinese schools if the government did not settle the appointments issue. The boycott was called off later, albeit at the eleventh hour.
Response by UMNO Youth and detentions
In the event, even though the boycott was cancelled, the stage was set for a mirror response from the Malays, led by UMNO Youth. A mass rally of 10,000 was held at the TPCA Stadium in Kuala Lumpur and, by then, UMNO politicians had began to condemn MCA leaders for their collusion with the Dong Jiao Zong and the opposition DAP. Amidst calls from both sides for the resignations of MCA Deputy President and Labour Minister Lee Kim Sai and UMNO Education Minister Anwar Ibrahim, UMNO announced the holding of a mammoth rally in KL to celebrate its 41st Anniversary, which it was claimed would see the attendance of half a million members.
The proposed UMNO rally was the ostensible reason for the Inspector General of Police to precipitate the 27 October crackdown. Had the rally been held it was not improbable that racial riots could be sparked by the incendiary speeches of UMNO politicians. To make matters worse, a tinder box situation was already created by the rampage of a Malay soldier who killed a Malay and two Chinese with an M16 rifle in the Chow Kit area, straddling two large Chinese and Malay communities.
The pundits have it that the Prime Minister had to have a quid pro quo for cancelling the UMNO rally. Hence the arrests of prominent Chinese politicians. In retrospect, some of the culprits like Lee Kim Sai escaped arrest while many opposition members and activists with nothing to do with racial incitement were put in. Most of the government party people also saw early release while the dissidents generally served detention terms up to two years.
Najib Tun Razak, then-president of the UMNO Youth wing, had led a massive Malay rally in Kampung Baru. The Chinese community was gripped with fear of the possibility of May 13 repeating, and many Chinese businesses around the city was closed for a few days to avoid any potential attacks from the Malay ultra-nationalists.
Detainees
Operation Lalang resulted in the arrest of 106 people under the Internal Security Act. Among the more prominent detainees were opposition leader and DAP Secretary-General Lim Kit Siang, ALIRAN President Chandra Muzaffar, DAP Deputy Chairman Karpal Singh, MCA Vice President and Perak Chief Chan Kit Chee, PAS Youth Chief Halim Arshat, UMNO MP for Pasir Mas Ibrahim Ali, and UMNO Youth Education Chairman Mohamed Fahmi Ibrahim. Other prominent non-political detainees included Dong Jiao Zhong (Chinese Education Associations) Chairman Lim Fong Seng, Publicity Chief of the Civil Rights Committee Kua Kia Soong, and WAO member Irene Xavier. Besides that, there was also another detainee called Hilmy Noor, a Malay Christian, who was accused for "disrupting the Malay culture by being a Christian", while the Federal Constitution of Malaysia defines a Malay as someone who is a Muslim, speaks Malay, and practices Malay culture. The detainees were kept at the usual place used for ISA detainees, at Kamunting Detention Center.
Although most of the detainees were released either conditionally or unconditionally, 40 were issued detention order of two years. Included were Lim Kit Siang and Karpal Singh plus five other party colleagues, a number of PAS members and many social activists. A categorization of the initially named detainees, numbering 97, gives the following breakdown: political parties: 37; social movements: 23; individuals: 37.
Effects on political and press freedom
In any case, the incident provided Mahathir's government with the excuse to further tighten the executive stranglehold on politics.[citation needed]. In the following year, the Printing Presses and Publications Act was amended so that it more difficult for printers and publishers to retain printing licenses eliminating the renewal process. They would have to annually re-apply. In addition if any license is revoked, it could not be challenged in court. A prison term was added for publication of false news, jail sentence for up to three years.
The leading Malaysian English daily, The Star, was closed down for a few months. In the weeks prior to Operation Lalang, The Star had continuously provided transparent news coverage about the Opposition's point of view. This construed treason as far as the government was concerned, and they were shut down under Malaysia's repressive sedition laws. The Star resumed publication months later under new management that was installed by UMNO. Most of the previous staff were laid off or otherwise threatened with prison and ISA. From that point onwards, The Star, as well as many other media outlets in Malaysia, became government-controlled mouthpieces with an obvious pro-government slant. These media outlets were also noticeably whitewashing all of the UMNO government's wrongdoings and corruption. All the cover-up and whitewashing by the mass media became more obvious towards the late-90's, when another power struggle within UMNO (the Mahathir vs Anwar episode) revealed the extent of corruption and crimes among the UMNO executive that have never been revealed or reported.
Amendments were also made to the Police Act making it practically impossible to hold any political meeting, including a party's annual general meeting, without a police permit. A conviction could mean a fine of RM10,000 and a jail term of one year. Even an assembly of more than five people in a public area is considered an "illegal assembly" and could not be held without a police permit. This law was intentionally made to be so restrictive in order to give the police arbitrary rights to detain any group in public by citing it is an illegal assembly.
References
* Chow, Kum Hor (Nov. 6, 2005). "9/11 changed Hu's view of ISA". New Sunday Times, p. 8–9.
* Mahavera, Sheridan (Nov. 6, 2005). "'When you play with fire, you will get burnt'". New Sunday Times, p. 9.
* Othman, M. Husairy (Nov. 6, 2005). "Tajuddin bears no grudges". New Sunday Times, p. 9.
* Tan, Choe Choe (Nov. 6, 2005). "Sim taught detainees Chinese during his stay". New Sunday Times, p. 8.
Bar Council calls for release of RPK - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 13, 2008
Shocked and deeply troubled over the arrest of blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin under the Internal Security Act (ISA), the Bar Council has called for his immediate release, together with other detainees.
Bar Council president Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan said the Malaysian Bar had consistently denounced the ISA as draconian and undemocratic, and believed that the preventive detention laws should not be invoked under any circumstances.
”The Bar Council is equally perturbed that three newspapers (Sin Chew Daily, The Sun and Suara Keadilan) have been issued show-cause letters today over their news coverage.
”This, together with the arrest of Raja Petra under the ISA, may be viewed as a chilling message that our fundamental freedoms are not secure,” she said in a statement Friday.
Ambiga said if an offence had allegedly been commited, the individual concerned must be charged in court and given a fair opportunity to defend himself.
”We agree with the view reportedly expressed by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim on Thursday, when he disagreed with the call for the use of the ISA on Datuk Ahmad Ismail, saying that this ‘will have a huge effect on ... the rule of law’ and that he should therefore, ‘go through the normal process of law’,” she said.
Meanwhile, Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has expressed great concern over Raja Petra’s arrest.
Three Suhakam commissioners Tan Sri Simon Sipaun, Datuk Michael Yeoh and Datuk Dr Denison Jayasooria in a statement Friday said although Suhakam appreciated the Government’s responsibility in maintaining peace and stability, the commission had consistently held that the ISA and other preventive laws should be abolished.
They also expressed concern over the warning letters issued to the three newspapers as it was a curtailment of freedom of expression. - Bernama
Shocked and deeply troubled over the arrest of blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin under the Internal Security Act (ISA), the Bar Council has called for his immediate release, together with other detainees.
Bar Council president Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan said the Malaysian Bar had consistently denounced the ISA as draconian and undemocratic, and believed that the preventive detention laws should not be invoked under any circumstances.
”The Bar Council is equally perturbed that three newspapers (Sin Chew Daily, The Sun and Suara Keadilan) have been issued show-cause letters today over their news coverage.
”This, together with the arrest of Raja Petra under the ISA, may be viewed as a chilling message that our fundamental freedoms are not secure,” she said in a statement Friday.
Ambiga said if an offence had allegedly been commited, the individual concerned must be charged in court and given a fair opportunity to defend himself.
”We agree with the view reportedly expressed by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim on Thursday, when he disagreed with the call for the use of the ISA on Datuk Ahmad Ismail, saying that this ‘will have a huge effect on ... the rule of law’ and that he should therefore, ‘go through the normal process of law’,” she said.
Meanwhile, Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam) has expressed great concern over Raja Petra’s arrest.
Three Suhakam commissioners Tan Sri Simon Sipaun, Datuk Michael Yeoh and Datuk Dr Denison Jayasooria in a statement Friday said although Suhakam appreciated the Government’s responsibility in maintaining peace and stability, the commission had consistently held that the ISA and other preventive laws should be abolished.
They also expressed concern over the warning letters issued to the three newspapers as it was a curtailment of freedom of expression. - Bernama
Teresa Kok, Sin Chew reporter arrested under ISA - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 13, 2008
DAP's Teresa Kok is the latest to be arrested under Section 73 (1) if the ISA Friday.
Kok, who is Seputeh MP and also assemblyman for Kinrara, was arrested at 11.20pm Friday.
Deputy IGP Tan Sri Ismail Omar confirmed Kok's arrest.
Earlier, Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng was arrested from her home in Taman Permai in Bukit Mertajam at 8.40pm Friday.
Family members said they were told that she would be taken to the Bandar Perda police station in Seberang Jaya.
Ismail Omar said was also arrested under Section 73 (1) of the ISA.
A colleague said Tan called the office to inform them that the police had picked her up when they went to her home at 8.30pm.
However, when several colleagues tried to call her back on her handphone some 10 minutes later, the phone had been switched off.
On Friday night more than 100 people, including politicians, members of non-governmental organisations and journalists, gathered at the state police contingent to stage their silence protest on the arrest.
Tan, who is Mass Communications graduate from Universiti Sains Malaysia, has been a journalist for nine years.
She had reported on former Bukit Bendera division Umno chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail's alleged racist remarks while campaigning for the Permatang Pauh by-election.
The arrest comes on the same day that Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin was detained, also under the ISA.
DAP's Teresa Kok is the latest to be arrested under Section 73 (1) if the ISA Friday.Kok, who is Seputeh MP and also assemblyman for Kinrara, was arrested at 11.20pm Friday.
Deputy IGP Tan Sri Ismail Omar confirmed Kok's arrest.
Earlier, Sin Chew Daily News reporter Tan Hoon Cheng was arrested from her home in Taman Permai in Bukit Mertajam at 8.40pm Friday.
Family members said they were told that she would be taken to the Bandar Perda police station in Seberang Jaya.
Ismail Omar said was also arrested under Section 73 (1) of the ISA.
A colleague said Tan called the office to inform them that the police had picked her up when they went to her home at 8.30pm.However, when several colleagues tried to call her back on her handphone some 10 minutes later, the phone had been switched off.
On Friday night more than 100 people, including politicians, members of non-governmental organisations and journalists, gathered at the state police contingent to stage their silence protest on the arrest.
Tan, who is Mass Communications graduate from Universiti Sains Malaysia, has been a journalist for nine years.
She had reported on former Bukit Bendera division Umno chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail's alleged racist remarks while campaigning for the Permatang Pauh by-election.
The arrest comes on the same day that Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin was detained, also under the ISA.
Friday, September 12, 2008
PRESS STATEMENT - ISA Detention of Raja Petra Kamaruddin
--- PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ---
(PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA) 12 SEPTEMBER 2008
I condemn the arrest of social activist and blogger Raja Petra Kamaruddin under the draconian and infamous ISA. By sanctioning the use of the ISA to avert the process of transformational change in Malaysia, the UMNO-led BN government is confirming that it has lost touch with the will of the people and is no longer capable of leading within the framework of a just and democratic society.
Raja Petra should be released immediately and any allegations leveled against him by the Ministry of Home Affairs must be resolved swiftly by the due process of the law. Raja Petra should be given access to proper legal counsel, and his wife and children should not be denied an opportunity to visit him while he is held captive under this illegal detention.
Raja Petra’s detention and the show cause letters issued today to Sin Chew Daily, The Sun and Suara Keadilan, and its earlier banning of prominent political websites, demonstrate clearly the government’s willingness to subvert the freedom of speech at a time when expression of dissatisfaction with the government’s policies is at an all time high.
In the aftermath of the March 8th elections and the Permatang Pauh by-election the Malaysian people have demonstrated their courage and commitment to building a mature democratic society. The dastardly act of detention without trial will do nothing to abate the current government’s declining credibility, and in fact will likely hasten its eventual collapse.
Keadilan reiterates its vehement opposition to the practice of arbitrary detention without trial. We have consistently called for the immediate release of all ISA detainees, as such practices have no place in a democratic society. The ISA is used to quash dissent and smother those who in exercising their right to free speech voice opinions contrary to the preferred views of the ruling clique.
Invoking the ISA just days before September 16th is clearly an attempt to engineer an atmosphere of fear and instability that would justify the government’s heavy-handed tactics against those aligned with the political opposition.
ANWAR IBRAHIM
LEADER OF OPPOSITION
---KENYATAAN MEDIA UNTUK EDARAN SEGERA---
Saya mengecam penahanan aktivis sosial dan penulis blog terkenal, Raja Petra Kamaruddin, di bawah undang-undang kuku besi ISA. Dengan menggunakan ISA untuk menghalang proses perubahan di Malaysia, kerajaan Barisan Nasional yang diketuai UMNO mengesahkan ianya telah tidak berpijak di atas sokongan rakyat dan sudah tidak mampu memimpin Malaysia dengan adil dan demokratik.
Saya menegaskan Raja Petra mesti dibebaskan segera dan sebarang tuduhan yang dibuat oleh Kementerian Hal Ehwal dalam Negeri mestilah diselesaikan dengan segera mungkin menuruti proses undang-undang. Raja Petra seharusnya dibenarkan untuk berjumpa peguam dan anggota keluarganya mestilah dibenarkan untuk berjumpa beliau sewaktu dalam tahanan.
Penahanan Raja Petra dan surat tunjuk sebab yang dikeluarkan hari ini kepada Sin Chew Daily, The Sun dan Suara Keadilan di samping halangan terdahulu terhadap laman web politik yang terkenal, menunjukkan dengan jelas kesediaan kerajaan untuk melumpuhkan kebebasan bersuara di saat rakyat berani untuk meluahkan rasa tidak puas hati terhadap dasar kerajaan.
Selepas Pilihanraya 8 Mac dan Pilihanraya Kecil Permatang Pauh, rakyat Malaysia telah menzahirkan keberanian dan iltizam mereka untuk membina satu masyarakat yang demokratik. Penahanan ini tidak akan meredakan merudumnya kredibiliti pentadbiran sekarang, malah hanya akan mempercepatkan kejatuhan pentadbiran ini.
KeAdilan mengulangi bantahan keras terhadap sebarang tindakan menahan individu secara sewenang-wenangnya. Kami secara konsisten menggesa pembebasan semua tahanan ISA kerana tindakan itu bertentangan dengan prinsip masyarakat demokratik. ISA ternyata digunakan untuk melumpuhkan sebarang kritikan dan digunakan terhadap individu yang mempertahankan hak kebebasan suara mereka yang bertentangan dengan pemerintah.
Menggunakan ISA hanya beberapa hari sebelum 16hb September jelas satu usaha untuk mencipta ketakutan dan ketidakstabilan palsu buat menjustifikasikan taktik kerajaan ke atas mereka yang bersama pembangkang.
ANWAR IBRAHIM
KETUA PEMBANGKANG
Three newspapers get show-cause letters - Sun
KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 11, 2008):
The Home Ministry has issued show-cause letters to three newspapers -- Sin Chew Daily, theSun and Suara Keadilan -- giving them seven days to state why action should not be taken against them over the nature of their news coverage.
The letters were signed by Publications Control and Al-Quran Text Division secretary Che Din Yusoh. theSun received its letter this morning.
Che Din told theSun the three newspapers were asked to show cause for violating guidelines under the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984.
He said they were identified based on their study and monitoring of the issues highlighted by these newspapers. He said they are also monitoring all other publications.
Top-selling Chinese vernacular newspaper Sin Chew Daily received its letter yesterday, its editor-in-chief Pook Ah Lek, confirmed in a telephone interview.
He said: "We will give a response accordingly within the 7-day time frame given."
Although he declined to elaborate on the content, it is learnt the letter did not spell out specific news reports that were objectionable.
The newspaper recently found itself in the news over its three-paragraph report on what Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Ahmad said at a political ceramah during the Permatang Pauh by-election campaign on Aug 23.
Suara Keadilan, a fortnightly newspaper belonging to Parti Keadilan Rakyat, also received its letter today, but it is not known what the content is.
On Thursday, at a buka puasa gathering, Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar had told reporters that the Ministry had served show-cause letters to several media firms bent on creating tension among the people.
"Any media which we see have breached the conditions and guidelines, will be told to show cause and the reply must be made within a week.
"They should not consider the show-cause letter as our attempt to impose a restriction. We owe the responsibility to the society in general to ensure conflicts do not occur and anger is not prompted as a result of what we write about race, religion or even culture."
This development follows the recent spate of reports over the Ahmad Ismail saga, after his alleged racist remarks about the Chinese caused MCA and Gerakan leaders to react by calling for him to apologise and for action to be taken against him.
Umno supreme council on Wednesday suspended him for three years. BN component party leaders have since accepted the punishment and said this episode should serve as a lesson to all.
Syed Hamid Albar also said his Ministry has served a reminder on all media practitioners to follow the guidelines stipulated by the government.
Bernama quoted him as saying that the reminder was issued shortly after the Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) withdrew the ban on several websites, including Malaysia Today.
"Most importantly, while we want freedom and openness, we must also bear the responsibility as Malaysians to ensure peace and public order and prevent people from inciting and humiliating others and breaking the law," he said.
"So, it is a warning or a reminder and after it has been served, I hope it will raise the awareness because the power of the media, be it blogs, in prints or electronic to influence the society in general is very deep and significant."
Syed Hamid said the move to restrict access to several websites was not intended as a penalty but just a careful measure because of concern that they could bring about tension and undermine public order.
The Home Ministry has issued show-cause letters to three newspapers -- Sin Chew Daily, theSun and Suara Keadilan -- giving them seven days to state why action should not be taken against them over the nature of their news coverage.
The letters were signed by Publications Control and Al-Quran Text Division secretary Che Din Yusoh. theSun received its letter this morning.
Che Din told theSun the three newspapers were asked to show cause for violating guidelines under the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984.
He said they were identified based on their study and monitoring of the issues highlighted by these newspapers. He said they are also monitoring all other publications.
Top-selling Chinese vernacular newspaper Sin Chew Daily received its letter yesterday, its editor-in-chief Pook Ah Lek, confirmed in a telephone interview.
He said: "We will give a response accordingly within the 7-day time frame given."
Although he declined to elaborate on the content, it is learnt the letter did not spell out specific news reports that were objectionable.
The newspaper recently found itself in the news over its three-paragraph report on what Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Ahmad said at a political ceramah during the Permatang Pauh by-election campaign on Aug 23.
Suara Keadilan, a fortnightly newspaper belonging to Parti Keadilan Rakyat, also received its letter today, but it is not known what the content is.
On Thursday, at a buka puasa gathering, Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar had told reporters that the Ministry had served show-cause letters to several media firms bent on creating tension among the people.
"Any media which we see have breached the conditions and guidelines, will be told to show cause and the reply must be made within a week.
"They should not consider the show-cause letter as our attempt to impose a restriction. We owe the responsibility to the society in general to ensure conflicts do not occur and anger is not prompted as a result of what we write about race, religion or even culture."
This development follows the recent spate of reports over the Ahmad Ismail saga, after his alleged racist remarks about the Chinese caused MCA and Gerakan leaders to react by calling for him to apologise and for action to be taken against him.
Umno supreme council on Wednesday suspended him for three years. BN component party leaders have since accepted the punishment and said this episode should serve as a lesson to all.
Syed Hamid Albar also said his Ministry has served a reminder on all media practitioners to follow the guidelines stipulated by the government.
Bernama quoted him as saying that the reminder was issued shortly after the Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) withdrew the ban on several websites, including Malaysia Today.
"Most importantly, while we want freedom and openness, we must also bear the responsibility as Malaysians to ensure peace and public order and prevent people from inciting and humiliating others and breaking the law," he said.
"So, it is a warning or a reminder and after it has been served, I hope it will raise the awareness because the power of the media, be it blogs, in prints or electronic to influence the society in general is very deep and significant."
Syed Hamid said the move to restrict access to several websites was not intended as a penalty but just a careful measure because of concern that they could bring about tension and undermine public order.
Home Minister: Raja Petra detained under ISA - Sun
KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 12, 2008):
Blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin was detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) today, Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar said.
He said Raja Petra, 58, was picked up at his house in Sungai Buloh at 1.10 pm under Section 731 of the Act.
Raja Petra was detained after it was ascertained that he could disrupt and threaten security and public order, he said when contacted.
Syed Hamid said the detention came in the wake of various statements published by Raja Petra in his blog "Malaysia Today", the latest being a commentary which allegedly ridiculed Islam and Prophet Muhammad.
"We have called and advised him many times following the publishing of his statements but he has continued to write, so much so that they (the statements) could pose a threat (to security and public order)," he said.
Meanwhile, Raja Petra's wife, Marina Lee Abdullah, said 10 policemen came to the house and detained her husband at 1.10 pm and took him away at 1.50 pm.
She said she did not know where they had taken him to.
Marina said the police also took several tapes and a computer from her husband's room.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar, when contacted, said the police would issue a statement on Raja Petra's detention this evening.
Raja Petra was detained under the ISA in April 2001 for his involvement in the reformation movement and was held for 53 days at the Kamunting Detention Centre in Taiping, Perak.
Raja Petra reportedly incited Muslims with a commentary on the article "I promise to be a good, non-hypocritical Muslim" which contained sentences that ridiculed Muslims besides allowing a commentary which ridiculed Islam and Prophet Muhammad with reference to the article "Not all Arabs are descendants of the Prophet" published in the "Malaysia Today" blog.
Syed Hamid issued a warning on Sept 6 that Raja Petra might be detained under the ISA in connection with the articles, and several police reports were made on the matter by several organisations, among them the Islamic Development Department of Malaysia (Jakim), the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council (Maik), the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Department (Jawi) and the Islamic Missionary Foundation of Malaysia (Yadim).
Section 731 of the ISA permits the detention of an individual for up to 60 days, Bernama reported.
In an immediate reaction, Parti Keadilan Rakyat president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail condemned Raja Petra's arrest, just after his blog was un-blocked by the government.
"If Raja Petra has in fact incited racial or religious hatred, then charge him in court and allow him to defend himself," she said.
She said PKR views Raja Petra's arrest, and the show-cause letters issued to several media organisations, as a possible prelude to a wider impending crackdown.
Blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin was detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) today, Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar said. He said Raja Petra, 58, was picked up at his house in Sungai Buloh at 1.10 pm under Section 731 of the Act.
Raja Petra was detained after it was ascertained that he could disrupt and threaten security and public order, he said when contacted.
Syed Hamid said the detention came in the wake of various statements published by Raja Petra in his blog "Malaysia Today", the latest being a commentary which allegedly ridiculed Islam and Prophet Muhammad.
"We have called and advised him many times following the publishing of his statements but he has continued to write, so much so that they (the statements) could pose a threat (to security and public order)," he said.
Meanwhile, Raja Petra's wife, Marina Lee Abdullah, said 10 policemen came to the house and detained her husband at 1.10 pm and took him away at 1.50 pm.
She said she did not know where they had taken him to.
Marina said the police also took several tapes and a computer from her husband's room.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ismail Omar, when contacted, said the police would issue a statement on Raja Petra's detention this evening.
Raja Petra was detained under the ISA in April 2001 for his involvement in the reformation movement and was held for 53 days at the Kamunting Detention Centre in Taiping, Perak.
Raja Petra reportedly incited Muslims with a commentary on the article "I promise to be a good, non-hypocritical Muslim" which contained sentences that ridiculed Muslims besides allowing a commentary which ridiculed Islam and Prophet Muhammad with reference to the article "Not all Arabs are descendants of the Prophet" published in the "Malaysia Today" blog.
Syed Hamid issued a warning on Sept 6 that Raja Petra might be detained under the ISA in connection with the articles, and several police reports were made on the matter by several organisations, among them the Islamic Development Department of Malaysia (Jakim), the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council (Maik), the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Department (Jawi) and the Islamic Missionary Foundation of Malaysia (Yadim).
Section 731 of the ISA permits the detention of an individual for up to 60 days, Bernama reported.
In an immediate reaction, Parti Keadilan Rakyat president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail condemned Raja Petra's arrest, just after his blog was un-blocked by the government.
"If Raja Petra has in fact incited racial or religious hatred, then charge him in court and allow him to defend himself," she said.
She said PKR views Raja Petra's arrest, and the show-cause letters issued to several media organisations, as a possible prelude to a wider impending crackdown.
Four PKR leaders going to Taiwan - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 12, 2008
PKR, following close on the heels of the Barisan Nasional backbenchers, will send four of its leaders to Taiwan Friday.
Information chief Tian Chua (Batu MP), strategic director Saifuddin Nasution (Machang MP), election bureau deputy head Fuziah Salleh (Kuantan MP) and supreme council member Low Chee Cheong will be on the 2pm flight.
“We will be staying at the same hotel as the Barisan backbenchers. So we’d probably be having breakfast and going for karaoke together with them,” quipped Tian.
He said the decision for the team to go to Taiwan was made Thursday morning at PKR’s political bureau meeting chaired by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He joked that since the Barisan MPs had gone to Taiwan for an agriculture study tour, “we too want to see how agricultural progress can be made.”
“We don’t want to be left behind in agriculture when we take over the government. We too want to learn some of the tricks of the trade,” he said . On Monday, a group of 41 Barisan MPs left for Taiwan on an agriculture study tour, largely seen as an attempt to avert a crossover to the Opposition.
On a more serious note, Tian claimed the presence of the Barisan MPs in Taiwan had created anxiety and misconception among the Taiwanese.
“It has created publicity that the MPs are there to avoid a regime change back home and the Taiwanese society do not want to be part of that process. They do not want to be part of any corruption or transactions to stop a democratic transformation of Malaysia,” he said.
Tian said “anxious” Taiwan Civil Society, NGOs and political activists had invited PKR over because they did not want to be seen as being one-sided in supporting Barisan.
“They are keen to get a briefing from us,” he said.
Tian said PKR would also meet high-profile Taiwanese ruling party and opposition leaders and the Taiwanese media during their visit there.
He said Taiwan and Malaysia shared a similar background and the former, after 50 years of dictatorship, had managed to transform its politics into a vibrant two-party system.
“That is something we should learn from them,” he said.
Tian said the PKR team would be in Taiwan for about two days, adding that it would be back before Sept 16, the date Anwar had set to take over the Government.
To a question, Tian admitted that some of the Barisan MPs who were in Taiwan were those who were supposed to join PR.
“Some are in that delegation but our door is wide open,” he said.
Barisan has 140 MPs while PR has a total of 82 from PKR, DAP and PAS combined. PR needs 30 crossovers to topple the Federal Government.
Tian said Sept 16 has already been achieved as PR has got that number to effect a change of government.
What was left now, he said, was for them to sort out how to make the transition – whether through a vote of no-confidence against the Prime Minister when Parliament reconvenes, through a petition to the King or by physically going to the Istana.
“We also need to be cautious over the possible risk of a crackdown and instability,” he said.
Drawing an analogy to a PR takeover, Tian said: “We have registered the marriage. It is only a question now of when to have the big banquet. That would depend on the hotel bookings and the invitations."
PKR, following close on the heels of the Barisan Nasional backbenchers, will send four of its leaders to Taiwan Friday.
Information chief Tian Chua (Batu MP), strategic director Saifuddin Nasution (Machang MP), election bureau deputy head Fuziah Salleh (Kuantan MP) and supreme council member Low Chee Cheong will be on the 2pm flight.
“We will be staying at the same hotel as the Barisan backbenchers. So we’d probably be having breakfast and going for karaoke together with them,” quipped Tian.
He said the decision for the team to go to Taiwan was made Thursday morning at PKR’s political bureau meeting chaired by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He joked that since the Barisan MPs had gone to Taiwan for an agriculture study tour, “we too want to see how agricultural progress can be made.”
“We don’t want to be left behind in agriculture when we take over the government. We too want to learn some of the tricks of the trade,” he said . On Monday, a group of 41 Barisan MPs left for Taiwan on an agriculture study tour, largely seen as an attempt to avert a crossover to the Opposition.
On a more serious note, Tian claimed the presence of the Barisan MPs in Taiwan had created anxiety and misconception among the Taiwanese.
“It has created publicity that the MPs are there to avoid a regime change back home and the Taiwanese society do not want to be part of that process. They do not want to be part of any corruption or transactions to stop a democratic transformation of Malaysia,” he said.
Tian said “anxious” Taiwan Civil Society, NGOs and political activists had invited PKR over because they did not want to be seen as being one-sided in supporting Barisan.
“They are keen to get a briefing from us,” he said.
Tian said PKR would also meet high-profile Taiwanese ruling party and opposition leaders and the Taiwanese media during their visit there.
He said Taiwan and Malaysia shared a similar background and the former, after 50 years of dictatorship, had managed to transform its politics into a vibrant two-party system.
“That is something we should learn from them,” he said.
Tian said the PKR team would be in Taiwan for about two days, adding that it would be back before Sept 16, the date Anwar had set to take over the Government.
To a question, Tian admitted that some of the Barisan MPs who were in Taiwan were those who were supposed to join PR.
“Some are in that delegation but our door is wide open,” he said.
Barisan has 140 MPs while PR has a total of 82 from PKR, DAP and PAS combined. PR needs 30 crossovers to topple the Federal Government.
Tian said Sept 16 has already been achieved as PR has got that number to effect a change of government.
What was left now, he said, was for them to sort out how to make the transition – whether through a vote of no-confidence against the Prime Minister when Parliament reconvenes, through a petition to the King or by physically going to the Istana.
“We also need to be cautious over the possible risk of a crackdown and instability,” he said.
Drawing an analogy to a PR takeover, Tian said: “We have registered the marriage. It is only a question now of when to have the big banquet. That would depend on the hotel bookings and the invitations."
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Sabah PKR files ACA report on allegation of BN mps to Taiwan receiving RM50,000 - NST
KOTA KINABALU, THURS: Sept 11, 2008
The Sabah Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) lodged a report with the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) today over the allegation that each of the Barisan Nasional (BN) Members of Parliament who joined the study trip to Taiwan had received RM50,000.
Party Youth chief Abdul Razak Jamil filed the report at the state ACA office at 3.05pm.
“Although BNBBC (Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club) deputy chairman Datuk Bung Mokhtar Radin has denied the allegation, we don’t know the truth, so the ACA should investigate,” he told reporters after lodging the report.
He made the report based on Sarawak People’s Party (SAPP) president Datuk Yong Teck Lee’s statement in the local press on Tuesday that the MPs who joined the trip were given RM50,000 each. The two SAPP MPs, Datuk Eric Majimbun and Datuk Dr Chua Soon Bui, did not go on the trip.
The group left for Taiwan on Monday to study agricultural projects there and are scheduled to return home next Wednesday.
The Sabah Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) lodged a report with the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) today over the allegation that each of the Barisan Nasional (BN) Members of Parliament who joined the study trip to Taiwan had received RM50,000.
Party Youth chief Abdul Razak Jamil filed the report at the state ACA office at 3.05pm.
“Although BNBBC (Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club) deputy chairman Datuk Bung Mokhtar Radin has denied the allegation, we don’t know the truth, so the ACA should investigate,” he told reporters after lodging the report.
He made the report based on Sarawak People’s Party (SAPP) president Datuk Yong Teck Lee’s statement in the local press on Tuesday that the MPs who joined the trip were given RM50,000 each. The two SAPP MPs, Datuk Eric Majimbun and Datuk Dr Chua Soon Bui, did not go on the trip.
The group left for Taiwan on Monday to study agricultural projects there and are scheduled to return home next Wednesday.
Cabinet orders SKMM to reinstate access to Malaysia Today - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 11, 2008
The Cabinet has ordered the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM) to reinstate access to all blocked websites including Malaysia Today, says Energy, Water and Communications Minister Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor.
On Aug 28 SKMM confirmed that it had instructed ISPs to block Malaysia Today in accordance with Section 263 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.
Since then various parties have slammed the move saying the action went against national commitments spelt out under MSC Malaysia’s Bill of Guarantees.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar had said the site was blocked because it showed no respect for religion.
The Cabinet has ordered the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM) to reinstate access to all blocked websites including Malaysia Today, says Energy, Water and Communications Minister Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor.
On Aug 28 SKMM confirmed that it had instructed ISPs to block Malaysia Today in accordance with Section 263 of the Communications and Multimedia Act.
Since then various parties have slammed the move saying the action went against national commitments spelt out under MSC Malaysia’s Bill of Guarantees.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar had said the site was blocked because it showed no respect for religion.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Joint Press Statement by National Alliance of Bloggers and Centre for Policy Initiatives
Statement released by:
Ahirudin Attan Interim President, National Alliance of Bloggers (AllBlogs)
Dr Lim Teck Ghee, Director, Centre for Policy Initiatives
Kuala Lumpur, 9 September 2008
SOS on Raja Petra Kamarudin to Fellow Malaysians
During the last few days there has been an ominous and increasing crescendo of messages – written and verbal – indicating the imminent arrest and detention of fellow blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
We hope that the Government is not contemplating this action. To alleviate the widespread public uproar and concern – national and international – that this shortsighted action will precipitate, we call on the authorities that may be planning this action to take heed of this SOS; to immediately cease all targeting of Raja Petra through the ISA or any other repressive measure; and to come out instead with an assurance that:
1. No such ISA order is being envisaged to be served on Raja Petra
2. Raja Petra is free to continue his writings on the vital matters affecting the country
3. The draconian legislation of the ISA will not be used on Raja Petra or any other Malaysian blogger to punish them for their dissenting views and opinions.
In our view - and if the Government should care to undertake an independent survey, in the view of the great majority of Malaysians and non-Malaysians - Raja Petra in no way poses a threat to the country’s peace and security. Rather, he poses a threat to those individuals and organizations that he perceives as engaging in unconscionable and dastardly acts and activities that are bringing ruin to the nation. Many Malaysians too are of the opinion that his website contains some of the most incisive analysis on the ills that beset our nation. Further attempts to take down his website or to shackle his freedom of expression is not only an attack on a fearless, principled and ethical patriot but they will also be construed as an attempt to restrict our freedom of information and expression, a move that will take the country further down the road of authoritarianism.
While we respect the right to freedom of speech and information, we also advise all Bloggers and other online writers to exercise the same high ethical standards expected of journalists in the traditional media. We do not condone lies and malice in the Internet and should not only stand by what we write - we must be able to defend the truth of what we write.
We emphasize that in our view the current laws pertaining to Sedition and Defamation apply equally to print and online media and should be deterrent enough to check “irresponsible” writings. Hence we urge that there be no resort to a draconian law such as the Internal Security Act to hold peace-loving Malaysian writers to “ransom.”
A democratic government should not for one moment entertain - let alone pursue - the charges that have been leveled against Raja Petra. To isolate those forces in the system that are bent on using the repressive instruments of the state against various opponents for their own benefit, we call on:
1. All fair-minded and honest leaders from the Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Rakyat parties to speak out - privately and publicly - against any attempt to use the ISA against Raja Petra;
2. Component parties of the Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Rakyat to publicly oppose any intended incarceration of Raja Petra under the ISA;
3. Civil society, professional and other organizations and private individuals to demand that the Government guarantees Raja Petra’s freedom of expression and undertakes not to use the ISA against him now or in the future.
We hope that good sense will prevail in our country’s leadership. Any act of repression against Raja Petra especially at this particular time will not go unquestioned or unanswered. We are confident that hundreds of thousands - if not millions of Malaysians – will stand firmly to make their dissenting views known should the Government choose to silence Raja Petra through the use of the ISA.
Ahirudin Attan Interim President, National Alliance of Bloggers (AllBlogs)
Dr Lim Teck Ghee, Director, Centre for Policy Initiatives
Kuala Lumpur, 9 September 2008
SOS on Raja Petra Kamarudin to Fellow Malaysians
During the last few days there has been an ominous and increasing crescendo of messages – written and verbal – indicating the imminent arrest and detention of fellow blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
We hope that the Government is not contemplating this action. To alleviate the widespread public uproar and concern – national and international – that this shortsighted action will precipitate, we call on the authorities that may be planning this action to take heed of this SOS; to immediately cease all targeting of Raja Petra through the ISA or any other repressive measure; and to come out instead with an assurance that:
1. No such ISA order is being envisaged to be served on Raja Petra
2. Raja Petra is free to continue his writings on the vital matters affecting the country
3. The draconian legislation of the ISA will not be used on Raja Petra or any other Malaysian blogger to punish them for their dissenting views and opinions.
In our view - and if the Government should care to undertake an independent survey, in the view of the great majority of Malaysians and non-Malaysians - Raja Petra in no way poses a threat to the country’s peace and security. Rather, he poses a threat to those individuals and organizations that he perceives as engaging in unconscionable and dastardly acts and activities that are bringing ruin to the nation. Many Malaysians too are of the opinion that his website contains some of the most incisive analysis on the ills that beset our nation. Further attempts to take down his website or to shackle his freedom of expression is not only an attack on a fearless, principled and ethical patriot but they will also be construed as an attempt to restrict our freedom of information and expression, a move that will take the country further down the road of authoritarianism.
While we respect the right to freedom of speech and information, we also advise all Bloggers and other online writers to exercise the same high ethical standards expected of journalists in the traditional media. We do not condone lies and malice in the Internet and should not only stand by what we write - we must be able to defend the truth of what we write.
We emphasize that in our view the current laws pertaining to Sedition and Defamation apply equally to print and online media and should be deterrent enough to check “irresponsible” writings. Hence we urge that there be no resort to a draconian law such as the Internal Security Act to hold peace-loving Malaysian writers to “ransom.”
A democratic government should not for one moment entertain - let alone pursue - the charges that have been leveled against Raja Petra. To isolate those forces in the system that are bent on using the repressive instruments of the state against various opponents for their own benefit, we call on:
1. All fair-minded and honest leaders from the Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Rakyat parties to speak out - privately and publicly - against any attempt to use the ISA against Raja Petra;
2. Component parties of the Barisan Nasional and Pakatan Rakyat to publicly oppose any intended incarceration of Raja Petra under the ISA;
3. Civil society, professional and other organizations and private individuals to demand that the Government guarantees Raja Petra’s freedom of expression and undertakes not to use the ISA against him now or in the future.
We hope that good sense will prevail in our country’s leadership. Any act of repression against Raja Petra especially at this particular time will not go unquestioned or unanswered. We are confident that hundreds of thousands - if not millions of Malaysians – will stand firmly to make their dissenting views known should the Government choose to silence Raja Petra through the use of the ISA.
Mad Cow Disease in Penang
NO HOLDS BARRED by Raja Petra KamarudinResearchers in University Science Malaysia (USM), Penang, have traced local beef as the source of the recent outbreak of Mad Cow Disease. According to Professor Abdool Rehman Maideen, the university decided to conduct this research when it was discovered that many Indians of the Muslim faith appeared to be acting very strange one hour after a heavy meal that comprised of beef.
“The Indians of the Hindu faith did not seem to catch this disease,” explained Professor Abdool Rehman. “It is only those Indians of the Muslim faith who got it. So we suspected that it must have something to do with their diet since many Hindus are vegetarians and most would not consume beef.”
“But what is most perplexing,” said Professor Abdool Rehman, “Malays also eat the same thing but they do not appear to be prone to this disease. In fact, many Chinese, Thais, and others as well eat local beef but how come they are immune from this disease?”
“I think we are seeing a new strain or mutated form of Mad Cow Disease. This is not the same strain that hit this country a couple of years ago. This strain hits only Indians, in this case Indians who eat beef like those Indians of the Muslim faith.”
“It may no longer be accurate to call this disease Mad Cow Disease although it does come from cows and those inflicted with the disease do act like mad cows. Our university has renamed this disease Mamak Disease in light of the fact that Mamaks seem to be the only people who suffer from this problem.”
“We did some tests on Malays and Chinese, and although they eat the same beef as the Indians of the Muslim faith, they do not appear to be prone to the disease -- and neither are Indians who are Christians. We would love to also do some tests on Indians of the Hindu faith but the problem is we can’t get them to agree to consume beef even though it is for research purposes.”
“The way those affected with this disease act is quite frightening,” said Professor Abdool Rehman. “People have been known to jump up from their chairs, try to climb walls, and they would pull down and destroy paintings and photographs. The look on their faces when they go berserk is something you have to personally see to appreciate. It is indeed a most ugly sight that words can never describe. The fact that most of these people are already ugly to start off with makes it even worse. I for one would dread to catch such a disease and that is why from now on I have become a vegetarian and shun all forms of meat.”
Pictures courtesy of Kwong Wah Yit Poh
Najib: Taiwan trip not linked to defection deadline - Malaysiakini
The DPM rejected claims that 49 BN backbenchers have been whisked away to Taiwan to avert potential defections to Pakatan.
... 'Frogs' on the plane - Malaysiakini
There are apparently several defectors among the 41 Barisan Nasional (BN) parliamentarians who boarded a flight for Taiwan today for an agriculture study tour.
Umno "Arrogant Racist" chieftain meets PM in Putrajaya - Malaysiakini
Ahmad Ismail, the man at the centre of the 'racial slur' controversy, had a meeting with Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi at the Prime Minister's Office in Putrajaya
Monday, September 8, 2008
Don't be like American Jews, Chinese told - Malaysiakini
Sept 8, 08 8:52pm
Penang Umno leader Ahmad Ismail, the man at the center of the ‘racial slur' controversy, warned Chinese Malaysians not to mimic American Jews who not only seek to control the country's economy but also its political power.
In an explosive 50-minute press conference, Ahmad who claimed time and again that he was not a racist, vowed that he would not apologize for his remarks which sparked the controversy.
"While it is not difficult to say sorry - for the sake of my Malay dignity, I resolve not to apologise no matter what others may say. I am willing to take the risk (for not doing so)," he said in a 14-page statement.
More news at: Malaysiakini
Ahmad's 14-page Statement:
Click to enlarge.
Penang Umno leader Ahmad Ismail, the man at the center of the ‘racial slur' controversy, warned Chinese Malaysians not to mimic American Jews who not only seek to control the country's economy but also its political power.In an explosive 50-minute press conference, Ahmad who claimed time and again that he was not a racist, vowed that he would not apologize for his remarks which sparked the controversy.
"While it is not difficult to say sorry - for the sake of my Malay dignity, I resolve not to apologise no matter what others may say. I am willing to take the risk (for not doing so)," he said in a 14-page statement.
More news at: Malaysiakini
Ahmad's 14-page Statement:
Click to enlarge.
Habeas corpus application by Hindraf five rejected - NST
IPOH, MON: Sept 8, 2008
The High Court here today rejected habeas corpus applications by five leaders of the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) who are now detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) at the Kamunting Detention Centre near Taiping.
R. Kengadharan, 41; M. Manoharan, 46; V. Ganabatirau, 34; P.Uthayakumar, 46, and K. Vasantha Kumar, 34, who filed the applications in May through the law firm of Messrs Karpal Singh & Co., had named the Home Minister and the centre’s superintendent as the respondents.
“In summary, the court finds that there has not been any contravention as alleged by the applicants of their constitutional rights to approve the habeas corpus application,” said Judicial Commissioner Ridwan Ibrahim in rejecting their application.
He said the Advisory Board which recommended the extension of their detention also did not commit any wrong as it was not subject to use a judicial inquest in order to make a decision.
The court was also of the view that the Advisory Board had its own methodology and procedures governed by the interest of national security.
The High Court here today rejected habeas corpus applications by five leaders of the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) who are now detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) at the Kamunting Detention Centre near Taiping.
R. Kengadharan, 41; M. Manoharan, 46; V. Ganabatirau, 34; P.Uthayakumar, 46, and K. Vasantha Kumar, 34, who filed the applications in May through the law firm of Messrs Karpal Singh & Co., had named the Home Minister and the centre’s superintendent as the respondents.
“In summary, the court finds that there has not been any contravention as alleged by the applicants of their constitutional rights to approve the habeas corpus application,” said Judicial Commissioner Ridwan Ibrahim in rejecting their application.
He said the Advisory Board which recommended the extension of their detention also did not commit any wrong as it was not subject to use a judicial inquest in order to make a decision.
The court was also of the view that the Advisory Board had its own methodology and procedures governed by the interest of national security.
Eight days and counting - NST
Sept 8, 2008 By Sajahan Abdul Waheed
THE next eight days will be telling for Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim: his sodomy trial opens on Wednesday and the clock is winding down on his boast of seizing control of government by Sept 16.
The Pakatan Rakyat leader will answer charges that he sodomised his former aide, Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan, 23.
Anwar is scheduled to appear in the Sessions Court for a hearing to fix the trial date.
He was formally charged on Aug 7 with committing carnal intercourse against the order of nature in a Kuala Lumpur condominium in June.
However, unlike 1988 when he faced similar charges, he has been granted bail and his passport was not impounded.
He was free to campaign and win the Permatang Pauh by-election on Aug 26.
Fuelled by the momentum of his return to Parliament after a 10-year absence, there is no turning back for the former deputy prime minister as Sept 16 approaches.
Ignoring the immorality of forming a parliamentary majority by defections, he says he is on track to topple the Barisan Nasional government elected in the March 8 general election.
Failure to realise his claims would be a setback and result in Anwar losing credibility among other parties in Pakatan Rakyat and in the eyes of the people.
The path to the top is not as easy as he claims.
Every rumour of a member of parliament's crossover from BN, widely spread by text messages last Thursday and Friday, has been disproved.
BN component party leaders have repeatedly denied that any of their MPs is switching camps.
But Anwar's propaganda machine keeps enough people, including local and foreign investors, on tenterhooks and confused about the country's political future.
Said a politician: "There are too many SMSes being spread.
"The first thing I do when I wake up is to check my handphone to see if there is any development.
"You can feel the tension all over.
"It is a question of will he or won't he be able to form a new government."
A major realignment of political forces resulting in a change in government would have been more practical weeks after the March polls.
But six months later and with just eight days before Sept 16, it seems unlikely.
Some had expected the defections to take place after and at the height of euphoria over Anwar's Permatang Pauh win. That did not happen.
As simple as it is for him to poach a few, it is not at all clear where Anwar would get the 30 MPs to enable him to set up a new government and achieve his aim of becoming prime minister.
As of now, BN has a commanding 140 MPs compared with Pakatan Rakyat's 82.
But his intentions, however, can rattle BN as shown by the move last week by the Backbenchers' Club to go on an overseas study tour.
It played into Anwar's hands, allowing him to say in Jakarta on Saturday that he would mull over his options.
He was quoted as saying the date might now be Sept 17, when the MPs return.
The matter will be discussed with his Parti Keadilan Rakyat colleagues.
But even a day's delay would raise doubts and add to the impression that Anwar is a man who cannot live up to his word.
THE next eight days will be telling for Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim: his sodomy trial opens on Wednesday and the clock is winding down on his boast of seizing control of government by Sept 16.The Pakatan Rakyat leader will answer charges that he sodomised his former aide, Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan, 23.
Anwar is scheduled to appear in the Sessions Court for a hearing to fix the trial date.
He was formally charged on Aug 7 with committing carnal intercourse against the order of nature in a Kuala Lumpur condominium in June.
However, unlike 1988 when he faced similar charges, he has been granted bail and his passport was not impounded.
He was free to campaign and win the Permatang Pauh by-election on Aug 26.
Fuelled by the momentum of his return to Parliament after a 10-year absence, there is no turning back for the former deputy prime minister as Sept 16 approaches.
Ignoring the immorality of forming a parliamentary majority by defections, he says he is on track to topple the Barisan Nasional government elected in the March 8 general election.
Failure to realise his claims would be a setback and result in Anwar losing credibility among other parties in Pakatan Rakyat and in the eyes of the people.
The path to the top is not as easy as he claims.
Every rumour of a member of parliament's crossover from BN, widely spread by text messages last Thursday and Friday, has been disproved.
BN component party leaders have repeatedly denied that any of their MPs is switching camps.
But Anwar's propaganda machine keeps enough people, including local and foreign investors, on tenterhooks and confused about the country's political future.
Said a politician: "There are too many SMSes being spread.
"The first thing I do when I wake up is to check my handphone to see if there is any development.
"You can feel the tension all over.
"It is a question of will he or won't he be able to form a new government."
A major realignment of political forces resulting in a change in government would have been more practical weeks after the March polls.
But six months later and with just eight days before Sept 16, it seems unlikely.
Some had expected the defections to take place after and at the height of euphoria over Anwar's Permatang Pauh win. That did not happen.
As simple as it is for him to poach a few, it is not at all clear where Anwar would get the 30 MPs to enable him to set up a new government and achieve his aim of becoming prime minister.
As of now, BN has a commanding 140 MPs compared with Pakatan Rakyat's 82.
But his intentions, however, can rattle BN as shown by the move last week by the Backbenchers' Club to go on an overseas study tour.
It played into Anwar's hands, allowing him to say in Jakarta on Saturday that he would mull over his options.
He was quoted as saying the date might now be Sept 17, when the MPs return.
The matter will be discussed with his Parti Keadilan Rakyat colleagues.
But even a day's delay would raise doubts and add to the impression that Anwar is a man who cannot live up to his word.
Pakatan dakwa Umno semarak politik perkauman - Malaysiakini
Sep 8, 08 3:36pm
Majlis Pimpinan Pakatan Rakyat yang bersidang hari ini menolak usaha-usaha menyemarakkan politik perkauman yang didakwanya sedang dilakukan oleh Umno akhir-akhir ini.
"Kami amat bimbang isu ini sekarang digunakan untuk mengelabui pandangan rakyat yang sebenarnya merupakan usaha terdesak untuk menyelamatkan kepentingan segelintir golongan elit politik dan kroni mereka," kata Penasihat PKR, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Sehubungan itu, katanya, Pakatan sekali lagi mengulangi pendiriannya menjunjung prinsip-prinsip dasar yang termaktub di bawah Perlembagaan Persekutuan.
"Ini termasuk soal-soal dasar seperti kedudukan Islam sebagai Agama Persekutuan dan menjamin kebebasan mengamalkan agama-agama lain, kedaulatan Bahasa Melayu sebagai Bahasa Kebangsaan dan mempertahankan hak bahasa ibunda, kedudukan dan kedaulatan Institusi Raja-Raja Melayu serta kedudukan hak-hak istimewa orang Melayu dan Bumiputera serta hak-hak semua kaum yang telah dijamin oleh Perlembagaan," kata Anwar.
Dalam satu kenyataan hari ini, Anwar berkata, berdasarkan prinsip-prinsip Perlembagaan ini, Pakatan menolak sekeras-kerasnya pendekatan politik perkauman sempit yang menurutnya menjadi dasar Umno-BN.
"Pendekatan inilah yang sengaja digunakan untuk memecahbelahkan perpaduan dan keharmonian masyarakat majmuk negara ini," tambahnya.
Sehubungan itu, katanya, Pakatan membantah ucapan yang dibuat oleh ketua Umno Bukit Bendera, Datuk Ahmad Ismail yang disokong oleh semua pemimpin Umno Pulau Pinang.
"Isi ucapan itu mencerminkan dasar perkauman Umno yang sebenarnya bertujuan hanya untuk mempertahankan kepentingan segelintir golongan orang kaya Melayu serta suku sakat mereka yang menggunakan kuasa politik untuk mengambil kesempatan mengaut kekayaan negara dengan berselindung di sebalik membela kepentingan Bumiputera dan orang Melayu," tegas Anwar.
Ahmad didakwa berkata orang Cina adalah pendatang dan tidak layak mendapat hak sama seperti Melayu.
Sehubungan itu, Gerakan, MCA dan DAP telah mendesak Ahmad supaya menarik balik kenyataannya dan memohon maaf. Pemuda DAP (Dapsy) juga membuat laporan polis terhadap Ahmad.
Bagaimanapun, Ahmad berkata, beliau tidak melakukan sebarang kesalahan, dan oleh itu, tiada sebab baginya untuk memohon maaf.
Majlis Pimpinan Pakatan Rakyat yang bersidang hari ini menolak usaha-usaha menyemarakkan politik perkauman yang didakwanya sedang dilakukan oleh Umno akhir-akhir ini.
"Kami amat bimbang isu ini sekarang digunakan untuk mengelabui pandangan rakyat yang sebenarnya merupakan usaha terdesak untuk menyelamatkan kepentingan segelintir golongan elit politik dan kroni mereka," kata Penasihat PKR, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Sehubungan itu, katanya, Pakatan sekali lagi mengulangi pendiriannya menjunjung prinsip-prinsip dasar yang termaktub di bawah Perlembagaan Persekutuan.
"Ini termasuk soal-soal dasar seperti kedudukan Islam sebagai Agama Persekutuan dan menjamin kebebasan mengamalkan agama-agama lain, kedaulatan Bahasa Melayu sebagai Bahasa Kebangsaan dan mempertahankan hak bahasa ibunda, kedudukan dan kedaulatan Institusi Raja-Raja Melayu serta kedudukan hak-hak istimewa orang Melayu dan Bumiputera serta hak-hak semua kaum yang telah dijamin oleh Perlembagaan," kata Anwar.
Dalam satu kenyataan hari ini, Anwar berkata, berdasarkan prinsip-prinsip Perlembagaan ini, Pakatan menolak sekeras-kerasnya pendekatan politik perkauman sempit yang menurutnya menjadi dasar Umno-BN.
"Pendekatan inilah yang sengaja digunakan untuk memecahbelahkan perpaduan dan keharmonian masyarakat majmuk negara ini," tambahnya.
Sehubungan itu, katanya, Pakatan membantah ucapan yang dibuat oleh ketua Umno Bukit Bendera, Datuk Ahmad Ismail yang disokong oleh semua pemimpin Umno Pulau Pinang.
"Isi ucapan itu mencerminkan dasar perkauman Umno yang sebenarnya bertujuan hanya untuk mempertahankan kepentingan segelintir golongan orang kaya Melayu serta suku sakat mereka yang menggunakan kuasa politik untuk mengambil kesempatan mengaut kekayaan negara dengan berselindung di sebalik membela kepentingan Bumiputera dan orang Melayu," tegas Anwar.
Ahmad didakwa berkata orang Cina adalah pendatang dan tidak layak mendapat hak sama seperti Melayu.
Sehubungan itu, Gerakan, MCA dan DAP telah mendesak Ahmad supaya menarik balik kenyataannya dan memohon maaf. Pemuda DAP (Dapsy) juga membuat laporan polis terhadap Ahmad.
Bagaimanapun, Ahmad berkata, beliau tidak melakukan sebarang kesalahan, dan oleh itu, tiada sebab baginya untuk memohon maaf.
Option of pulling out of BN open - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 8, 2008 By ELIZABETH LOOI and BEH YUEN HUI
Gerakan is studying whether it can still play a "meaningful role" in the Barisan Nasional, says acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon.
“A meaningful role means genuine mutual respect among component party members, able to share ideas and getting consulted on major programmes and policies,” he said.
He said Gerakan’s membership in Barisan was not unconditional as was reported previously.
“I think it’s only a fair thing ... to assess. It’s not as if it is to slap our Barisan partners in the face. No, we are not irresponsible,” he said in a press conference after opening the Selangor Gerakan state delegates conference yesterday.
Asked if this meant there was a possibility of Gerakan leaving the coalition, Dr Koh said: “I don’t know what else I can say. You want to write it like that, you go ahead.”
Dr Koh said Gerakan was not a yes-man in the coalition but they would also not leave merely because another component party’s member attacked them.
He said Gerakan would give itself a “reasonable” amount of time to review its position in Barisan.
He added Gerakan was a founding partner of Barisan and they should not just leave because they were upset with “some things.”
Earlier, Dr Koh said Barisan should draw up a code of ethics to discipline members from all component parties.
He said the disciplinary procedure should transcend all parties so that sensitive matters could be solved objectively.
On its former Federal Territories chief Datuk Dr Tan Kee Kwong joining Parti Keadilan Rakyat, Dr Koh said Gerakan was not surprised
Gerakan is studying whether it can still play a "meaningful role" in the Barisan Nasional, says acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon.
“A meaningful role means genuine mutual respect among component party members, able to share ideas and getting consulted on major programmes and policies,” he said.
He said Gerakan’s membership in Barisan was not unconditional as was reported previously.
“I think it’s only a fair thing ... to assess. It’s not as if it is to slap our Barisan partners in the face. No, we are not irresponsible,” he said in a press conference after opening the Selangor Gerakan state delegates conference yesterday.
Asked if this meant there was a possibility of Gerakan leaving the coalition, Dr Koh said: “I don’t know what else I can say. You want to write it like that, you go ahead.”
Dr Koh said Gerakan was not a yes-man in the coalition but they would also not leave merely because another component party’s member attacked them.
He said Gerakan would give itself a “reasonable” amount of time to review its position in Barisan.
He added Gerakan was a founding partner of Barisan and they should not just leave because they were upset with “some things.”
Earlier, Dr Koh said Barisan should draw up a code of ethics to discipline members from all component parties.
He said the disciplinary procedure should transcend all parties so that sensitive matters could be solved objectively.
On its former Federal Territories chief Datuk Dr Tan Kee Kwong joining Parti Keadilan Rakyat, Dr Koh said Gerakan was not surprised
List of MPs flying to Taiwan still not finalised - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 8, 2008
A total of 41 MPs, who are members of the Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club (BBC), are expected to leave for Taiwan in batches on Monday followed by eight on Tuesday, including BBC chairman Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
On Monday, there is expected to be two batches flying to Taipei, Taiwan.
Deputy BBC chairman Datuk Bung Mokhtar Radin confirmed this on Monday.
He said some of the MPs decided to join at the last minute, hence the total number is still not confirmed.
The BBC members going to Taiwan comprise of 10 MPs from Sabah, 10 from Sarawak and the rest are from the peninsular. As at 11.50am, 29 MPs had turned up at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport for their flight.
The MPs are expected to take part in the programme, which was organised to explore Taiwan’s agricultural and industrial technology.
BBC chairman Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said they decided to go to Taiwan, and not China, as they were short of time.
“Initially, we wanted to go to China but as we did not have enough time to process our visas, we decided on Taiwan instead,” he told The Star’s Malay news portal mStar.
A total of 41 MPs, who are members of the Barisan Nasional Backbenchers Club (BBC), are expected to leave for Taiwan in batches on Monday followed by eight on Tuesday, including BBC chairman Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
On Monday, there is expected to be two batches flying to Taipei, Taiwan.
Deputy BBC chairman Datuk Bung Mokhtar Radin confirmed this on Monday.
He said some of the MPs decided to join at the last minute, hence the total number is still not confirmed.
The BBC members going to Taiwan comprise of 10 MPs from Sabah, 10 from Sarawak and the rest are from the peninsular. As at 11.50am, 29 MPs had turned up at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport for their flight.
The MPs are expected to take part in the programme, which was organised to explore Taiwan’s agricultural and industrial technology.
BBC chairman Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said they decided to go to Taiwan, and not China, as they were short of time.
“Initially, we wanted to go to China but as we did not have enough time to process our visas, we decided on Taiwan instead,” he told The Star’s Malay news portal mStar.
Another By-Election, Another Victory for Pakatan Rakyat
Court declares Kurup's victory in Pensiangan null and void - Sun
KOTA KINABALU (Sept 8, 2008):
The High Court here today declared null and void the election of Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) president Tan Sri Joseph Kurup as the unopposed winner of the Pensiangan parliamentary seat in the March 8 general election.
In delivering the landmark judgment, Justice David Wong Dak Wah ruled that the wrongful rejection of the nomination papers of the petitioner, Parti Keadilan Rakyat's Danny Anthony Andipai, had breached the petitioner's constitutional right to take part in the election and the written law relating to the conduct of the election.
In his 36-page judgment, Wong said the decision of the deputy director of the Sabah Election Commission to accept Andipai's nomination papers was final and could not be overruled by the returning officer, Bubudan OT Majalu, under the pretext that there was an objection during the objection period.
The deputy director was exercising a power provided for by law in making the decision, said the judge who also ruled that Bubudan's decision to uphold the objection was a wrong one.
"I find certain aspects of the second repondent's (Bubudan's) conduct troubling and when taken in its totality, I can only conclude that the decision made was definitely not one which a reasonable tribunal would come to."
He made the observation when allowing Andipai's petition to nullify the election result of the Pensiangan seat which Kurup won unopposed on nomination day on Feb 24. Andipai had named Kurup and Bubudan as respondents. The judgement was to have been delivered on Sept 17 but was brought forward yesterday.
Wong said Andipai arrived at the nomination centre at the Nabawan District Council Hall at about 9.35am to file his nomination papers for the seat.
After paying the deposit of RM15,000 he waited his turn but when he tried to submit his nomination papers, Bubudan refused to accept them on the ground that he was late in submitting them.
Andipai argued that it was not his fault but that of Bubudan and his staff. While the discussion was going on, one of the assistant returning officers, Osman Aganduk, sought the advice of the state election commission which gave the directive to accept the nomination papers.
Wong said the directive, which came from the deputy director of the Election Commission of Sabah, was relayed to Bubudan who then accepted Andipai's nomination papers at 10.25am.
Objections closed at 11am and at about 1.25pm, Bubudan announced that Kurup was returned unopposed and declared him duly elected on the ground that the nomination papers of Andipai and an independent candidate, Saineh Usau, were delivered after 10am.
Wong said returning officers like Bubudan are subject to the control, direction and supervision of the Election Commission (EC).
On whether regulations 6(2) and 6 (2A) (a) of the 1981 regulations prohibited Bubudan or the EC to allow receipt of nomination papers after 10am on nomination day, he said: "If I were to adopt the position of the respondents, it may lead to a chaotic situation."
He said in this particular case, the nomination centre was used to cater for two state constituencies and a parlimentary constituency, where only one counter was open for all the candidates for the three constituencies to submit nomination papers.
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He said in the event that a large number of people wanted to nominate themselves, "are we to say that only those who are able to submit their nomination papers before 10am are entitled to exercise their constitutional rights to contest in the election?"
"If that is the law, it will lead to abuse and chaos, abuse in that one party can get a group of people to submit their nomination papers early to ensure that his or her opponent will not get to the returning officers before 10am."
The judge also said he found it unbelievable that Bubudan did not know, as he had claimed, that coupons bearing numbers were given to the condidates on that day. "If what he says is true, this only reflects his own shortcoming as the returing officer who had full charge of the nomination centre."
Andipai's leading counsel, Ansari Abdullah, who is also Sabah PKR chief, said he was happy "that justice is done".
Kurup, who is Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah president, could not be reached for comment.
However, his leading counsel, Alex Decena, said Kurup could appeal the judgment. -- Bernama
KOTA KINABALU (Sept 8, 2008):
The High Court here today declared null and void the election of Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) president Tan Sri Joseph Kurup as the unopposed winner of the Pensiangan parliamentary seat in the March 8 general election.In delivering the landmark judgment, Justice David Wong Dak Wah ruled that the wrongful rejection of the nomination papers of the petitioner, Parti Keadilan Rakyat's Danny Anthony Andipai, had breached the petitioner's constitutional right to take part in the election and the written law relating to the conduct of the election.
In his 36-page judgment, Wong said the decision of the deputy director of the Sabah Election Commission to accept Andipai's nomination papers was final and could not be overruled by the returning officer, Bubudan OT Majalu, under the pretext that there was an objection during the objection period.
The deputy director was exercising a power provided for by law in making the decision, said the judge who also ruled that Bubudan's decision to uphold the objection was a wrong one.
"I find certain aspects of the second repondent's (Bubudan's) conduct troubling and when taken in its totality, I can only conclude that the decision made was definitely not one which a reasonable tribunal would come to."
He made the observation when allowing Andipai's petition to nullify the election result of the Pensiangan seat which Kurup won unopposed on nomination day on Feb 24. Andipai had named Kurup and Bubudan as respondents. The judgement was to have been delivered on Sept 17 but was brought forward yesterday.
Wong said Andipai arrived at the nomination centre at the Nabawan District Council Hall at about 9.35am to file his nomination papers for the seat.
After paying the deposit of RM15,000 he waited his turn but when he tried to submit his nomination papers, Bubudan refused to accept them on the ground that he was late in submitting them.
Andipai argued that it was not his fault but that of Bubudan and his staff. While the discussion was going on, one of the assistant returning officers, Osman Aganduk, sought the advice of the state election commission which gave the directive to accept the nomination papers.
Wong said the directive, which came from the deputy director of the Election Commission of Sabah, was relayed to Bubudan who then accepted Andipai's nomination papers at 10.25am.
Objections closed at 11am and at about 1.25pm, Bubudan announced that Kurup was returned unopposed and declared him duly elected on the ground that the nomination papers of Andipai and an independent candidate, Saineh Usau, were delivered after 10am.
Wong said returning officers like Bubudan are subject to the control, direction and supervision of the Election Commission (EC).
On whether regulations 6(2) and 6 (2A) (a) of the 1981 regulations prohibited Bubudan or the EC to allow receipt of nomination papers after 10am on nomination day, he said: "If I were to adopt the position of the respondents, it may lead to a chaotic situation."
He said in this particular case, the nomination centre was used to cater for two state constituencies and a parlimentary constituency, where only one counter was open for all the candidates for the three constituencies to submit nomination papers.
|
He said in the event that a large number of people wanted to nominate themselves, "are we to say that only those who are able to submit their nomination papers before 10am are entitled to exercise their constitutional rights to contest in the election?"
"If that is the law, it will lead to abuse and chaos, abuse in that one party can get a group of people to submit their nomination papers early to ensure that his or her opponent will not get to the returning officers before 10am."
The judge also said he found it unbelievable that Bubudan did not know, as he had claimed, that coupons bearing numbers were given to the condidates on that day. "If what he says is true, this only reflects his own shortcoming as the returing officer who had full charge of the nomination centre."
Andipai's leading counsel, Ansari Abdullah, who is also Sabah PKR chief, said he was happy "that justice is done".
Kurup, who is Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah president, could not be reached for comment.
However, his leading counsel, Alex Decena, said Kurup could appeal the judgment. -- Bernama
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Anwar: Sept 16 takeover plan still on - Malaysiakini
Sep 6, 08 2:55pm
Ten days to go and Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim said today he is on track to meet the Sept 16 deadline to recruit enough members of parliament to topple the government.
The opposition is confident it will secure the defection of at least 30 members from the ruling Barisan Nasional government - the number needed to unseat the government of Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi, Anwar said.
Anwar, speaking to reporters in Jakarta after meeting with a think tank, said he was "quite positive from the initial response from the members of parliament."
"We have seen some very positive signs, but we have also seen the desperate acts by the government, threats and using institutions to discourage them," he said.
Government attempts to compel members of parliament to travel overseas until after his pledged Sept 16 deadline to take power would not work, Anwar said.
Probably we'll meet on 17th
"The only issue now is that they are going to compel members of parliament to (travel to) China or overseas until after the 16th of September, so we'll have to deal with that.
"Probably we'll meet on the 17th because they'll come back on the 17th," he said.
The 61-year-old leader of the three-party Pakatan Rakyat coalition declined to name or give the number of lawmakers who have pledged to defect.
Asked if he had used his two-day trip to Jakarta to meet with potential government defectors, Anwar said: "I won't comment on that, but I will say it's a good visit."
Abdullah, who is facing calls from his party to quit amid plummeting popularity, has said Anwar's push to take power will fail.
The parties of Pakatan gained unprecedented ground against the Barisan Nasional coalition in the March general election, securing a third of parliamentary seats and five states.
More news at: Malaysiakini
Ten days to go and Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim said today he is on track to meet the Sept 16 deadline to recruit enough members of parliament to topple the government.The opposition is confident it will secure the defection of at least 30 members from the ruling Barisan Nasional government - the number needed to unseat the government of Prime Minister Abdullah Badawi, Anwar said.
Anwar, speaking to reporters in Jakarta after meeting with a think tank, said he was "quite positive from the initial response from the members of parliament."
"We have seen some very positive signs, but we have also seen the desperate acts by the government, threats and using institutions to discourage them," he said.
Government attempts to compel members of parliament to travel overseas until after his pledged Sept 16 deadline to take power would not work, Anwar said.
Probably we'll meet on 17th
"The only issue now is that they are going to compel members of parliament to (travel to) China or overseas until after the 16th of September, so we'll have to deal with that.
"Probably we'll meet on the 17th because they'll come back on the 17th," he said.
The 61-year-old leader of the three-party Pakatan Rakyat coalition declined to name or give the number of lawmakers who have pledged to defect.
Asked if he had used his two-day trip to Jakarta to meet with potential government defectors, Anwar said: "I won't comment on that, but I will say it's a good visit."
Abdullah, who is facing calls from his party to quit amid plummeting popularity, has said Anwar's push to take power will fail.
The parties of Pakatan gained unprecedented ground against the Barisan Nasional coalition in the March general election, securing a third of parliamentary seats and five states.
More news at: Malaysiakini
PKR's Zul Nordin served with show cause letter - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 7, 2008 By G. MANIMARAN and NURUL AIN HUSSAIN
Kulim Bandar Baru MP Zulkifli Noordin has been served with a show cause letter for leading a demonstration protesting the forum organised by the Bar Council on Aug 9.
Zulkifli, who revealed this on his blog, said he was asked to face the PKR disciplinary committee on Tuesday.
When contacted, Zulkifli confirmed that he received the letter at his office in Kuala Lumpur.
"Maybe I will have to ask them to postpone the date to Sept 15 as I have a matter in court on Tuesday," he told The Star's Malay news portal mStar.
In his blog, he said the letter questioned why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for leading the Himpunan Aman Umat Islam (Muslim's Peace Assembly) to protest the forum on "Converting to Islam: Article 121(1A)" organised by the Bar Council.
"I take the stand of defending Islam when the religion is being disgraced, even if it contradicts the stand of other parties.
"If there comes a time when I have to pick between Islam and the party, I will always pick Islam although I know I will suffer losses, especially with Pakatan Rakyat expected to take over the Government on Sept 16," he said.
Kulim Bandar Baru MP Zulkifli Noordin has been served with a show cause letter for leading a demonstration protesting the forum organised by the Bar Council on Aug 9.Zulkifli, who revealed this on his blog, said he was asked to face the PKR disciplinary committee on Tuesday.
When contacted, Zulkifli confirmed that he received the letter at his office in Kuala Lumpur.
"Maybe I will have to ask them to postpone the date to Sept 15 as I have a matter in court on Tuesday," he told The Star's Malay news portal mStar.
In his blog, he said the letter questioned why disciplinary action should not be taken against him for leading the Himpunan Aman Umat Islam (Muslim's Peace Assembly) to protest the forum on "Converting to Islam: Article 121(1A)" organised by the Bar Council.
"I take the stand of defending Islam when the religion is being disgraced, even if it contradicts the stand of other parties.
"If there comes a time when I have to pick between Islam and the party, I will always pick Islam although I know I will suffer losses, especially with Pakatan Rakyat expected to take over the Government on Sept 16," he said.
DAP: We’re against party-hopping for gains - Star
KUALA TERENGGANU: Sept 7, 2008 By R.S.N. MURALI
The Democratic Action Party (DAP) on Sunday reiterated it would oppose any attempt by Members of Parliament (MPs) from Barisan Nasional crossing over to the Pakatan Rakyat alliance for the sake of monetary, personal advancement or material gains.
Party adviser Lim Kit Siang said Barisan MPs should only decide to jump ship if such a move would benefit their constituents, the country and Malaysians at large.
“It’s commendable and honourable for Barisan MPs to do so if they believe such a defection would benefit the people and country.
“This is more ethical but I believe the Barisan MPs (who may be contemplating defecting) would not do so for material gains,” he told reporters after opening two new branches in Terengganu.
The two new branches are Kampung Cina chaired by Ng Chai Heng, and Sungai Tong in Setiu chaired by Mat Zaki Mamat.
Lim said the Barisan MPs who abandon the coalition by holding to the principle of saving the nation would surely gain the sympathy, support and respect of all Malaysians.
“But do this (cross over) with principle and ethics,” he said.
The Democratic Action Party (DAP) on Sunday reiterated it would oppose any attempt by Members of Parliament (MPs) from Barisan Nasional crossing over to the Pakatan Rakyat alliance for the sake of monetary, personal advancement or material gains.
Party adviser Lim Kit Siang said Barisan MPs should only decide to jump ship if such a move would benefit their constituents, the country and Malaysians at large.“It’s commendable and honourable for Barisan MPs to do so if they believe such a defection would benefit the people and country.
“This is more ethical but I believe the Barisan MPs (who may be contemplating defecting) would not do so for material gains,” he told reporters after opening two new branches in Terengganu.
The two new branches are Kampung Cina chaired by Ng Chai Heng, and Sungai Tong in Setiu chaired by Mat Zaki Mamat.
Lim said the Barisan MPs who abandon the coalition by holding to the principle of saving the nation would surely gain the sympathy, support and respect of all Malaysians.
“But do this (cross over) with principle and ethics,” he said.
Gerakan may quit Barisan - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 7, 2008 By ELIZABETH LOOI
Gerakan will leave Barisan Nasional if it cannot play a "meaningful role" within the coalition, said acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon.
The party is now reviewing its role in Barisan, he said, just a day after he had declared Gerakan had no intention of quitting the coalition.
But that declaration had been tempered with the caution that Barisan must change to cope with the political reality and move away from race-based politics.
Dr Koh said it was only right for the party to question its role in the coalition.
He said a "meaningful role" meant having mutual respect, sharing ideas and consulting on major programmes and policies.
"We will remain in Barisan Nasional only in the context that we have a meaningful role to play.
"It's not unconditional, as was reported by one press, that Gerakan will always remain in Barisan, as if it were irrespective of whether we have a role (to play) or not.
Asked if this meant there was a possibility that Gerakan would leave the coalition, Dr Koh said:
"I don't know what else can I say. You want to write it like that, you go ahead."
He also reiterated that Gerakan was not a "yes-man" in the coalition but it would also not leave merely because another component party’s member attacked them.
He said Gerakan would not act emotionally and the party would look at the overall picture, such as what the party could do for the people, for unity and for the economy.
Asked if Gerakan was happy with its current role in the coalition, Dr Koh said it was not happy, but it was also not unhappy enough to leave.
He said the party would not take too long to review its role but neither would it give itself a tight deadline.
"We are discussing the time frame now -- as I said, it has to be reasonable," he said.
He noted that Gerakan was a founding partner of Barisan and would not just leave because it was upset with some things.
Dr Koh had also earlier warned that Barisan may reach a “point of no return” if racist remarks and anti-social behaviour continued to tarnish its image, implicitly referring to Umno Bukit Bendera division chairman Datuk Ahmad Ismail’s alleged racist statements.
Ahmad was reported to have described Malaysian-Chinese as immigrants and squatters. He has denied the reports, saying journalists had quoted him out of context.
He has also refused to apologise for the alleged remarks, citing support from the 13 Umno divisions in Penang, and demanded that Dr Koh and Chinese community leaders apologise to him for asking him to express regret.
Ahmad also said that he was sure MCA would garner unanimous support from the Chinese if Gerakan broke away from Barisan, which saw Dr Koh accusing him of "trying to drive a wedge" between Gerakan and MCA.
Gerakan will leave Barisan Nasional if it cannot play a "meaningful role" within the coalition, said acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon.The party is now reviewing its role in Barisan, he said, just a day after he had declared Gerakan had no intention of quitting the coalition.
But that declaration had been tempered with the caution that Barisan must change to cope with the political reality and move away from race-based politics.
Dr Koh said it was only right for the party to question its role in the coalition.
He said a "meaningful role" meant having mutual respect, sharing ideas and consulting on major programmes and policies.
"We will remain in Barisan Nasional only in the context that we have a meaningful role to play.
"It's not unconditional, as was reported by one press, that Gerakan will always remain in Barisan, as if it were irrespective of whether we have a role (to play) or not.
Asked if this meant there was a possibility that Gerakan would leave the coalition, Dr Koh said:
"I don't know what else can I say. You want to write it like that, you go ahead."
He also reiterated that Gerakan was not a "yes-man" in the coalition but it would also not leave merely because another component party’s member attacked them.
He said Gerakan would not act emotionally and the party would look at the overall picture, such as what the party could do for the people, for unity and for the economy.
Asked if Gerakan was happy with its current role in the coalition, Dr Koh said it was not happy, but it was also not unhappy enough to leave.
He said the party would not take too long to review its role but neither would it give itself a tight deadline.
"We are discussing the time frame now -- as I said, it has to be reasonable," he said.
He noted that Gerakan was a founding partner of Barisan and would not just leave because it was upset with some things.
Dr Koh had also earlier warned that Barisan may reach a “point of no return” if racist remarks and anti-social behaviour continued to tarnish its image, implicitly referring to Umno Bukit Bendera division chairman Datuk Ahmad Ismail’s alleged racist statements.
Ahmad was reported to have described Malaysian-Chinese as immigrants and squatters. He has denied the reports, saying journalists had quoted him out of context.
He has also refused to apologise for the alleged remarks, citing support from the 13 Umno divisions in Penang, and demanded that Dr Koh and Chinese community leaders apologise to him for asking him to express regret.
Ahmad also said that he was sure MCA would garner unanimous support from the Chinese if Gerakan broke away from Barisan, which saw Dr Koh accusing him of "trying to drive a wedge" between Gerakan and MCA.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Sabah, Sarawak should demand 25% oil royalty: Harris - Star
KOTA KINABALU: Sept 6, 2008 By MUGUNTAN VANAR
Former chief minister Datuk Harris Mohd Salleh is asking the Sabah and Sarawak state governments to pass a resolution in their respective legislative assemblies to demand 25% oil royalty instead of the current 5%.
In a letter dated Sept 2, sent to the chief ministers and all assemblymen of the two states, Harris said that it was an opportune time for both Sabah and Sarawak to seek an increase in oil royalties by approving and adopting a motion for increase effective Jan 1, 2009.
Harris, whose letter was made available to the media, said that since the signing of the petroleum agreement with the federal government in 1974, the price of petrol has increased four times.
He said among other reasons for the increase was that many negotiated federal projects implemented in the state were not a priority and were implemented at double the cost without the tender.
Among the other reasons he gave for the increase was that Sabah and Sarawak needed a lot of funds to undertake their respective development projects especially in raising the standard of living of their people, said Harris, who was the Berjaya government chief minister between 1976 and 1985.
“These days, the federal government is accommodating any just and fair requests from both states,” he said, adding that an increase in oil royalty was justified as even the federal government acknowledges there is a need for development in the two states.
Harris said that he hoped the two Barisan-led state governments would seriously consider pushing for the increase as it would be in the interest of the present and future generations of the two states.
Former chief minister Datuk Harris Mohd Salleh is asking the Sabah and Sarawak state governments to pass a resolution in their respective legislative assemblies to demand 25% oil royalty instead of the current 5%.In a letter dated Sept 2, sent to the chief ministers and all assemblymen of the two states, Harris said that it was an opportune time for both Sabah and Sarawak to seek an increase in oil royalties by approving and adopting a motion for increase effective Jan 1, 2009.
Harris, whose letter was made available to the media, said that since the signing of the petroleum agreement with the federal government in 1974, the price of petrol has increased four times.
He said among other reasons for the increase was that many negotiated federal projects implemented in the state were not a priority and were implemented at double the cost without the tender.
Among the other reasons he gave for the increase was that Sabah and Sarawak needed a lot of funds to undertake their respective development projects especially in raising the standard of living of their people, said Harris, who was the Berjaya government chief minister between 1976 and 1985.
“These days, the federal government is accommodating any just and fair requests from both states,” he said, adding that an increase in oil royalty was justified as even the federal government acknowledges there is a need for development in the two states.
Harris said that he hoped the two Barisan-led state governments would seriously consider pushing for the increase as it would be in the interest of the present and future generations of the two states.
Former Segambut MP joins PKR - Star
PETALING JAYA: Sept 6, 2008 By ROYCE CHEAH
Former Segambut MP and Federal Territories Gerakan chief Datuk Dr Tan Kee Kwong has joined PKR citing that he has lost faith in Barisan Nasional.
Speaking at a press conference Saturday together with PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Dr Tan said he had submitted his decision to resign from Gerakan via fax at 11am on Friday.
"The decision was not easy but the sentiments were there. I also received the support of my wife and close friends," he said, adding that the decision was made two days ago.
Dr Tan, 62, said that Gerakan had not contacted him since the letter was faxed and that the party had also not "talked about him" for the past six weeks.
"I joined PKR because I believe it is the party of the future and that Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is leading the charge to make Malaysia a better country."
When asked if he was sad about leaving the party he had joined in 1995, Dr Tan said it was not about being sad but about doing what was right in the little time that anyone has in life.
"It is actually a breath of fresh air for me. I know that people might criticise me for being ungrateful but even in my previous party I was considered an irritant, a cancer in the party that refused to follow the mainstream."
Dr Tan said in his time in Government, as a former Deputy Land and Cooperative Development Minister, he had tried his best to effect change from within but could not.
"And any effort to effect change now would be impossible."
He said all Barisan component parties ought to reassess themselves and be honest about what they stood for in politics, adding that he was not advocating mass defections.
Former Segambut MP and Federal Territories Gerakan chief Datuk Dr Tan Kee Kwong has joined PKR citing that he has lost faith in Barisan Nasional.Speaking at a press conference Saturday together with PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Dr Tan said he had submitted his decision to resign from Gerakan via fax at 11am on Friday.
"The decision was not easy but the sentiments were there. I also received the support of my wife and close friends," he said, adding that the decision was made two days ago.
Dr Tan, 62, said that Gerakan had not contacted him since the letter was faxed and that the party had also not "talked about him" for the past six weeks.
"I joined PKR because I believe it is the party of the future and that Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is leading the charge to make Malaysia a better country."
When asked if he was sad about leaving the party he had joined in 1995, Dr Tan said it was not about being sad but about doing what was right in the little time that anyone has in life.
"It is actually a breath of fresh air for me. I know that people might criticise me for being ungrateful but even in my previous party I was considered an irritant, a cancer in the party that refused to follow the mainstream."
Dr Tan said in his time in Government, as a former Deputy Land and Cooperative Development Minister, he had tried his best to effect change from within but could not.
"And any effort to effect change now would be impossible."
He said all Barisan component parties ought to reassess themselves and be honest about what they stood for in politics, adding that he was not advocating mass defections.
Journalists: We did not hear it wrongly - Star
GEORGE TOWN: Sept 6, 2008 By ANN TAN
Two reporters have vouched for the accuracy of the Chinese newspaper’s report on Bukit Bendara Umno division chairman Datuk Ahmad Ismail’s allegedly racist remark.
Guang Ming Daily journalist Lee Kelvin said he was sure he heard Ahmad utter Orang Cina cuma tumpang di sini sahaja (the Chinese are only squatting here.)
"I was following Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's second assignment at Kampung Pelet.
"When I reached the place, Ahmad was already giving his talk but I did not pay much attention to the content of his speech.
"It was only when Ahmad gradually spoke louder towards the end of the speech that the phrase caught my attention," he said.
Nanyang Siang Pau journalist Tan Ming Xao said the Kampung Pelet ceramah was also his second assignment.
"Najib was already there when I arrived. I don't really know Ahmad so I did not bother much over what he was talking about. Yet, I'm very sure I heard that remark from Ahmad but I did not pay much attention to the rest of his speech after that," he said, adding that he was focusing more on Najib.
Sin Chew Daily journalist Tan Hoon Cheng wrote in her journal, which appeared in the newspaper Saturday that she was sure she did not hear wrongly the alleged remarks.
Tan explained that Ahmad was talking about PKR leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the talk that DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang would be the next Deputy Prime Minister.
She said Ahmad then asked if anything happened to Anwar, who would be the next Prime Minister.
She said he then asked if they (those attending the talk) wanted Lim to be the Prime Minister.
"After that, Ahmad said 'Chinese were only immigrants (Orang Cina cuma tumpang di sini) and it was impossible for them to achieve equal rights among races'.
"Upon hearing these remarks, I was thinking, did I hear it wrongly? Another journalist came by and whispered to me saying 'How could he say this; (it would) make people angry after hearing it," she said in her journal.
Tan said among some 200 attendees in the hall, some of them turned around and looked at her at the time.
"The look was more of embarrassment."
Two reporters have vouched for the accuracy of the Chinese newspaper’s report on Bukit Bendara Umno division chairman Datuk Ahmad Ismail’s allegedly racist remark.
Guang Ming Daily journalist Lee Kelvin said he was sure he heard Ahmad utter Orang Cina cuma tumpang di sini sahaja (the Chinese are only squatting here.)
"I was following Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak's second assignment at Kampung Pelet.
"When I reached the place, Ahmad was already giving his talk but I did not pay much attention to the content of his speech.
"It was only when Ahmad gradually spoke louder towards the end of the speech that the phrase caught my attention," he said.
Nanyang Siang Pau journalist Tan Ming Xao said the Kampung Pelet ceramah was also his second assignment.
"Najib was already there when I arrived. I don't really know Ahmad so I did not bother much over what he was talking about. Yet, I'm very sure I heard that remark from Ahmad but I did not pay much attention to the rest of his speech after that," he said, adding that he was focusing more on Najib.
Sin Chew Daily journalist Tan Hoon Cheng wrote in her journal, which appeared in the newspaper Saturday that she was sure she did not hear wrongly the alleged remarks.
Tan explained that Ahmad was talking about PKR leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the talk that DAP adviser Lim Kit Siang would be the next Deputy Prime Minister.
She said Ahmad then asked if anything happened to Anwar, who would be the next Prime Minister.
She said he then asked if they (those attending the talk) wanted Lim to be the Prime Minister.
"After that, Ahmad said 'Chinese were only immigrants (Orang Cina cuma tumpang di sini) and it was impossible for them to achieve equal rights among races'.
"Upon hearing these remarks, I was thinking, did I hear it wrongly? Another journalist came by and whispered to me saying 'How could he say this; (it would) make people angry after hearing it," she said in her journal.
Tan said among some 200 attendees in the hall, some of them turned around and looked at her at the time.
"The look was more of embarrassment."
Friday, September 5, 2008
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Sodomy allegation: Pusrawi doctor confirms SD - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 4, 2008
The doctor who examined Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan after the latter had lodged a police report alleging he had been sodomised by Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has resurfaced to “set the record straight.”
Pusrawi Hospital’s Dr Mohamed Osman Abdul Hamid, reaffirmed statements he had made in a statutory declaration he had filed on June 28, saying that he had found no evidence of sodomy in his examination.
"I am standing by the SD that I have made. There have been a lot of media statements that have put me in a bad light both professionally and personally.
"Please be assured that I had merely done my job as a doctor. I am not involved in politics and I will always tell the truth," Dr Mohamed Osman said at a press conference Thursday. He was accompanied by his lawyers M. Puravalen and Yusri Kamarudin at the Bar Council in Leboh Pasar Besar here.
His statutory declaration was leaked to Malaysia Today and published in the news portal on July 28, after which the Myanmar national took one month’s leave from the hospital and apparently fled the country.
The doctor said he has no knowledge of how his medical examination report on Mohd Saiful, who has alleged that he was sodomised by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, was circulated to the media and Internet.
"I don't know how the information got out and I don't know Mohd Saiful in a personal capacity.
"I have never at any time breached my professional ethics and have always practised doctor-patient confidentiality," he said.
Dr Mohamed Osman said he is very angry and saddened by the whole issue as he was not in control of what happened to him.
"I do not hold the patient’s folder all the time. If I am working as a doctor in my own clinic, the records will be in my hand or under my control but now I just want to clear my name," he said, adding he was on holiday overseas for over a month and was still employed by the hospital.
Dr Mohamed Osman - a general practitioner who works at the Emergency and Accident Clinic at Pusrawi - said he did not examine Saiful for sodomy on June 26.
He said Saiful came to the hospital and had initially sought treatment for stomach pain. He then informed the doctor that he had pain in the anus.
The doctor then advised him to seek further examination for sodomy from specialists at a government hospital.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin was called in to give his statement to the police at the Commercial Crimes Investigation Department (CCID) headquarters here in Bukti Perdana at 9am Thursday.
He was questioned for about two hours on the SD made by Dr Mohamed Osman that was posted on the news portal.
"They wanted to know if I knew (Dr Mohamed) Osman and if I obtained any documents from him, whether I published all those documents and whether I'm the owner of the news portal.
"Basically my answer was not relevant. I'm not answering anything. Who is the owner of Malaysia Today? I don't know. Who makes the decision for Malaysia Today? I don't know. Go find the owner and charge him," Raja Petra said.
He said he told police that the SD was not hosted on Malaysia Today but by image hosting website Imageshack.
Raja Petra added he was unperturbed by the possibility of landing in jail.
"Even if you want to deny bail, I'll go to Sungai Buloh prison and rest for Hari Raya," he said.
He was greeted by a group of supporters, including fellow bloggers, before leaving with his wife Marina Abdullah and lawyer Amarjit Singh.
The doctor who examined Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan after the latter had lodged a police report alleging he had been sodomised by Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has resurfaced to “set the record straight.”
Pusrawi Hospital’s Dr Mohamed Osman Abdul Hamid, reaffirmed statements he had made in a statutory declaration he had filed on June 28, saying that he had found no evidence of sodomy in his examination."I am standing by the SD that I have made. There have been a lot of media statements that have put me in a bad light both professionally and personally.
"Please be assured that I had merely done my job as a doctor. I am not involved in politics and I will always tell the truth," Dr Mohamed Osman said at a press conference Thursday. He was accompanied by his lawyers M. Puravalen and Yusri Kamarudin at the Bar Council in Leboh Pasar Besar here.
His statutory declaration was leaked to Malaysia Today and published in the news portal on July 28, after which the Myanmar national took one month’s leave from the hospital and apparently fled the country.
The doctor said he has no knowledge of how his medical examination report on Mohd Saiful, who has alleged that he was sodomised by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, was circulated to the media and Internet.
"I don't know how the information got out and I don't know Mohd Saiful in a personal capacity.
"I have never at any time breached my professional ethics and have always practised doctor-patient confidentiality," he said.
Dr Mohamed Osman said he is very angry and saddened by the whole issue as he was not in control of what happened to him.
"I do not hold the patient’s folder all the time. If I am working as a doctor in my own clinic, the records will be in my hand or under my control but now I just want to clear my name," he said, adding he was on holiday overseas for over a month and was still employed by the hospital.
Dr Mohamed Osman - a general practitioner who works at the Emergency and Accident Clinic at Pusrawi - said he did not examine Saiful for sodomy on June 26.
He said Saiful came to the hospital and had initially sought treatment for stomach pain. He then informed the doctor that he had pain in the anus.
The doctor then advised him to seek further examination for sodomy from specialists at a government hospital.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin was called in to give his statement to the police at the Commercial Crimes Investigation Department (CCID) headquarters here in Bukti Perdana at 9am Thursday.
He was questioned for about two hours on the SD made by Dr Mohamed Osman that was posted on the news portal.
"They wanted to know if I knew (Dr Mohamed) Osman and if I obtained any documents from him, whether I published all those documents and whether I'm the owner of the news portal.
"Basically my answer was not relevant. I'm not answering anything. Who is the owner of Malaysia Today? I don't know. Who makes the decision for Malaysia Today? I don't know. Go find the owner and charge him," Raja Petra said.
He said he told police that the SD was not hosted on Malaysia Today but by image hosting website Imageshack.
Raja Petra added he was unperturbed by the possibility of landing in jail.
"Even if you want to deny bail, I'll go to Sungai Buloh prison and rest for Hari Raya," he said.
He was greeted by a group of supporters, including fellow bloggers, before leaving with his wife Marina Abdullah and lawyer Amarjit Singh.
Ahmad (Arrogant) refuses to apologise - Star
GEORGE TOWN: Sept 4, 2008
Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail has refused to apologise over his alleged racist remark calling the Chinese community “immigrants who do not deserve equal rights”.
“Why should I apologise? I didn’t do anything wrong. Those who do wrong should apologise but I haven’t done anything,” Ahmad said, when met outside his Bayan Baru office Thursday.
He, however, refused to comment on whether the press misquoted him.
He said a full statement on what transpired would be released after a Penang Umno Liaison meeting on Saturday. He added that he would not say much at present, but wanted to clear up the issue of reporting to the police.
Police are currently investigating five reports lodged against Ahmad under the Sedition Act 1948 for allegedly uttering the seditious remarks at a ceramah on the eve of the Permatang Pauh by-election.
“Some press are saying that they were informed that I was going to the Bukit Mertajam police station on Wednesday night (to make a statement), but I want to make it clear that I never told anyone or informed anyone that I would be there. It was their assumption,” he added.
Ahmad recorded a statement with the police at the police contingent headquarters in Penang Road about 10pm Wednesday while pressmen from television, online and print media were waiting for him on the mainland.
Asked where he had been over the last few days, Ahmad confirmed that he had been leading a sepak takraw team to a tournament in Bangkok.
“My phone has been on and off, but a lot of my anak buah (supporters) have been calling me, so maybe that’s why it has been hard to get through,” he said.
On the alleged misappropriation of funds involving now-defunct company Popular Profile Sdn Bhd (PPSB), Ahmad said he had resigned before any action was taken on the company.
“This issue has nothing to do with me. Action is taken on a company, not on a personal capacity. Moreover, I resigned from company on 1 Sept 1998. What happened after that, I don’t know.
“The Chief Minister (Lim Guan Eng) shouldn’t be using his political muscle and power to attack me,” he said, adding that he would not say more on the land deal until he had checked the details.
Lim had recently attacked Ahmad on a 1997 land deal involving PPSB, in which Ahmad had been a director. Lim alleged that the company had cheated the state out of RM500,000 in a deal involving 4.2ha of industrial land in Bukit Minyak.
Bukit Bendera Umno division chief Datuk Ahmad Ismail has refused to apologise over his alleged racist remark calling the Chinese community “immigrants who do not deserve equal rights”.“Why should I apologise? I didn’t do anything wrong. Those who do wrong should apologise but I haven’t done anything,” Ahmad said, when met outside his Bayan Baru office Thursday.
He, however, refused to comment on whether the press misquoted him.
He said a full statement on what transpired would be released after a Penang Umno Liaison meeting on Saturday. He added that he would not say much at present, but wanted to clear up the issue of reporting to the police.
Police are currently investigating five reports lodged against Ahmad under the Sedition Act 1948 for allegedly uttering the seditious remarks at a ceramah on the eve of the Permatang Pauh by-election.
“Some press are saying that they were informed that I was going to the Bukit Mertajam police station on Wednesday night (to make a statement), but I want to make it clear that I never told anyone or informed anyone that I would be there. It was their assumption,” he added.
Ahmad recorded a statement with the police at the police contingent headquarters in Penang Road about 10pm Wednesday while pressmen from television, online and print media were waiting for him on the mainland.
Asked where he had been over the last few days, Ahmad confirmed that he had been leading a sepak takraw team to a tournament in Bangkok.
“My phone has been on and off, but a lot of my anak buah (supporters) have been calling me, so maybe that’s why it has been hard to get through,” he said.
On the alleged misappropriation of funds involving now-defunct company Popular Profile Sdn Bhd (PPSB), Ahmad said he had resigned before any action was taken on the company.
“This issue has nothing to do with me. Action is taken on a company, not on a personal capacity. Moreover, I resigned from company on 1 Sept 1998. What happened after that, I don’t know.
“The Chief Minister (Lim Guan Eng) shouldn’t be using his political muscle and power to attack me,” he said, adding that he would not say more on the land deal until he had checked the details.
Lim had recently attacked Ahmad on a 1997 land deal involving PPSB, in which Ahmad had been a director. Lim alleged that the company had cheated the state out of RM500,000 in a deal involving 4.2ha of industrial land in Bukit Minyak.