Posted on by Kit

Release Hindraf 5 from ISA – start healing after political tsunami

Two days after the political tsunami of the March 8 general election, the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in an op-ed article in Asian Wall Street Journal (March 11, 2008), entitled “Malaysia will heal her divisions”, pledged:

“As there has been much speculation about the implications of our election results, I wish to offer clarity on three critically important points:

“First, we have heard the voice of our citizens, and I will dedicate myself, in this second term, to healing the divisions which became evident during the campaign. That will mean developing new and concrete initiatives, not just rhetoric, that bring our people together and ensure that no one is left behind as Malaysia prospers, whether they are ethnic Malays, Chinese or Indians.”

Abdullah is right. The Prime Minister’s fatal mistake in his first administration was that his many sweet-sounding pledges which created the feel-good euphoria resulting in his unprecedented landslide victory of over 91 per cent parliamentary seats in the 2004 general election were pure rhetoric but not backed up with any significant or meaningful action.

Is it going to be rhetoric and more rhetoric in his second premiership or is Abdullah going to start implementing his many pledges of reform of the past four years?

One immediate test faced by Abdullah as to whether he is starting to genuinely listen to the people to start the process of “national healing” after the political tsunami of the March 8 general election is the continued unjust, arbitrary and undemocratic detention of the DAP Selangor State Assemblyman for Kota Alam Shah M. Manoharan and the other four Hindraf leaders P. Uthayakumar, V. Ganabatirau, R. Kenghadharan and T. Vasantha Kumar under the Internal Security Act (ISA) for spearheading a national campaign against the marginalization of the Malaysian Indians causing them to become a new underclass in Malaysia.

Is Abdullah prepared to order the immediate and unconditional release on the Hindraf Five from Kamunting Detention Centre and involve them in the process of “national healing” to end the marginalization of all Malaysian ethnic groups – whether Indians, Malays, Chinese, Kadazans, Ibans or Orang Asli??

If Abdullah had “heard the voices of our citizens”, he would have known that one important reason for the political tsunami of March 8 and Barisan Nasional’s electoral debacle which saw its vote among the Malaysian Indians slumped by some 35 per cent from 82 per cent to 47 per cent, and the MIC virtually wiped out in Parliament and the state assemblies, is the long-standing political, economic, educational, social, cultural and religious marginalization of the Malaysian Indians which has given birth to the Hindraf and “Makkal Sakti” phenomena.

Why hasn’t Abdullah taken instant action in the past 13 days to immediately and unconditionally release the Hindraf Five from ISA detention to demonstrate that the Prime Minister has truly started to hear the “voices of our citizens”?

If Abdullah has not yet “heard the voices of the citizens” in the political tsunami of the March 8 general election, then all the other Cabinet Ministers, regardless of race, religion or political party, should demonstrate at the first Cabinet meeting on Wednesday that they have “heard the voices of the citizens” and adopt a Cabinet resolution to urge Abdullah to hear the voices of Malaysians in the political tsunami of March 8 to immediately and unconditionally release the Hindraf Five under ISA to start the process of “national healing” after the 12th general election.

I will write an urgent letter to Abdullah before the first Cabinet meeting next Wednesday to urge on the Prime Minister to waste not another day for the immediate and unconditional release of the Hindraf Five from ISA detention.

147 Replies to “Release Hindraf 5 from ISA – start healing after political tsunami”

  2. (The Asian Wall Street Journal Op-ed by Abdullah Ahmad Badawi)

    Malaysia will heal her divisions

    By DATUK SERI ABDULLAH AHMAD BADAWI

    WHILE I am honoured to have been re-elected as Prime Minister of Malaysia and to have received a 63% majority of the 222 seats in Parliament in our just-completed general election, I am also disappointed that we fell a few seats short of the two-thirds majority we were hoping for.

    For those who have in the past questioned the legitimacy of Malaysia’s electoral process, the results of Saturday’s election are positive proof that our country does indeed enjoy a free, fair and highly competitive democracy.

    As there has been much speculation about the implications of our election results, I wish to offer clarity on three critically important points:

    First, we have heard the voice of our citizens, and I will dedicate myself, in this second term, to healing the divisions which became evident during the campaign. That will mean developing new and concrete initiatives, not just rhetoric, that bring our people together and ensure that no one is left behind as Malaysia prospers, whether they are ethnic Malays, Chinese or Indians.

    Second, we can achieve the above goal because our economy is indeed strong and stable, with a 7.3% GDP growth rate in the last quarter, nearly full employment, more than US$100bil in foreign exchange reserves, and a flood of foreign direct investment in manufacturing and services that last year reached a record US$13.7bil.

    For the benefit of all of our citizens, I intend Malaysia to remain a business-friendly and free market economy with powerful attractions for international investors who, over the past 12 months, have included General Electric of the United States, Britain’s Virgin Group, and important groups from the Middle East and China.

    Third, I intend to protect the stability and security of our nation. For all of our citizens to share in the prosperity and opportunities our economy is generating, we must also continue our work to eradicate crime and corruption.

    The people’s desire for law and order is as important in Malaysia as it is everywhere. The same is true of the need to make additional progress in battling corruption, which is both immoral and distorts competition in free markets.

    Although the size of our majority would be considered a landslide in most countries, the fact that it has significantly reduced and we have had setbacks in five of our 13 states indicates that we need to do more for those who feel disaffected.

    Although some quarters have called for me to step aside, my party has given me solid support to carry on our nation-building agenda, something for which I am grateful.

    As with any election in any democratic country, there is debate, sometimes heated; there can be divisions, sometimes fierce; then people make their own choices and democratic politicians have to live with the outcome.

    What matters most is that governments listen as well as lead, and so I will work hard to create more of a national consensus following our national democratic conversation.

    We are listening. I know there is discontent among some parts of our community. I accept it is our responsibility, as the newly re-elected government of all Malaysians, to find practical solutions to ease that discontent, to listen to grievances and to seek to remedy them.

    I have tried throughout my period in office to bring our country and our communities closer together. I have stood in firm opposition to those who have sought to divide us along racial, religious and ethnic lines.

    We are all Malaysians and we all must have a stake in building a progressive, united and cohesive country. This has always been my approach to government and politics. It is even more important now.

    Some people took the opportunity when voting to voice a protest, as can happen in any democracy. We accept the result. That is what democracy is all about. The election results will not diminish for a moment our determination to grow the Malaysian economy, to continue our successful programme of poverty eradication and to provide a level playing field for all.

    After an election it is right to have a period of reflection; it is not a time for narrow introspection. Malaysia cannot afford a period of sitting back and risk stalling our progress and our economic growth.

    We are in a changing global economy which itself is in increasingly challenging times. That is why, just as it is essential that we reflect internally on the lessons from these elections, it is vital that we look outward internationally to face and overcome the global challenges of economics, peace and international security.

    Malaysia will continue to offer business-friendly policies and a welcoming environment for investors. I believe that Malaysia will continue its strong economic growth in 2008. Our vibrant economy and proven record of economic growth will help us prosper despite the economic slowdown and uncertainty in the United States.

    What we must now undertake is to move forward as one nation with a renewed sense of a bright future for all.

    # This was an opinion article published in the Asian Wall Street Journal on Tuesday.

  3. “The Prime Minister’s fatal mistake in his first administration was that his many sweet-sounding pledges which created the feel-good euphoria resulting in his unprecedented landslide victory of over 91 per cent parliamentary seats in the 2004 general election were pure rhetoric but not backed up with any significant or meaningful action”………………………while it is good to learn from other’s mistake one should also reflect to oneself……………………

    DAP<PKR< PAS, Winning is the easy bit fulfilling your election promises is the hardest.

  4. YB LKS,

    All BR must work to release some malays who have been in ISA detention for more than 5-6 years charged being a JI member. whether JI existed or not in Malaysia is yet to be proven, it is trumped
    up.

    They have not been charged in court.

    High time to established JUSTICE – for the sake of their families, kids and Malays and Malaysians.

    Justice must be done.

    ma6

  6. The phrase “…..ensure that no one is left behind….” is nothing new, even from Tun’s time. The rakyat are probably used to such slogan and lip-service by now.

    By the way, since BN has less than 2/3 majority, go ahead to raise the ISA issue in parliament and get it abolished!

  7. YB LKS,

    BR must also look into the 18 sharks that robbed Malaysian of their wealth – as announce by the then Justice Minister, YB Rais Yatim.
    Subsequently PL transfered him to take care of joget and the museums.

    What a shame, that the whole episode is forgotten now –

    I do not expect it do be done immediately, we do not want to reduced
    the Malaysian politics to be ” a politics of vengeance.

    We should establishing “standing/ working” committees towards
    bringing the perpetrators to justice, and recover the losses.

    ma6

  8. In addition to release, BR should seek compensation for illegal imprisonment, loss of freedom and opportunity from the government to show them not to use ISA to throw their weight around.

  10. We have seen the declaration of Rukun Abdullah (2003).

    • “Work with me and not for me” –1.11.03
    • “I will work very hard” – 1.11.03
    • “I’ll serve with integrity, efficiency and fairness” – in Parliament 3.11.03
    • “Top two issues – Government to focus on education and corruption” – 7.11.03
    • “Tell me the truth” – 9.11.03.

    Is AAB’s offer to clarify 3 important points in AWSJ just a 2008 addendum to his 2003 Rukun?

  11. To quote Pak Lah ” We’re Listenin “.

    The govt has marginalised and failed to listen to our Indian Community grievances in the first place. They took it to the street just wanted to be heard, the message is loud n clear, but got detained by u w/out trial under ISA,so u can seal their mouths?

    What happen to the One million signature petition? is the voice not strong enough or he’s too ignorant? Pls, URGENT APPEAL, release our HINGRAF brothers, prove to us that you’re INDEED listenin’!

  12. We are watching closely as his past administration has been nothing more than mere talk and no substance.

    Lets hope he will come to his senses this time and keep his promise that the national healing process will be immediate and that he will indeed release the folks under ISA detention asap. It should also be unconditional as well.

    But so far, nothing seems to indicate that it is moving in the right direction. For example, he did not even act on the illegal demonstration organized by UMNO and its cohorts and there are more on the way!

    Sigh! Not giving it much hope…

  18. They have not use ISA against the Penang UMNO lot who demonstrated at KOMTAR recently. Like the Chinese saying, allow the official to set fire but don’t allow the rakyat to light lamp. Talk only lar, this pak …

  20. In a nutshell, Abdullah should start using his brains rather than borrowing the brains of some ‘educated idiots’.

    Many wonders in this world are forged by men who just practice the art of being simple-minded honesty & act with straight-thinking integrity. Pak Lah should simply ape Gandhi, yes, even walk around in cotton and slippers! Geniuses with evil tendencies like Machiavelli & the other famous M tend to screw up ultimately notwithstanding their evil genius! Mega projects to boot!

    Releasing Hindraf 5 is common sense! Where is the security threat after all these months? Pak Lah should not be so stupid as to believe evry word from SB. There is such a thing as ‘the proof of the pudding is in the testing (or tasting!)’. If leaders follow the leanings and hearsay of followers, the world would be plunged into anarchy.

    So, Pak LAh, bluntly – USE YOUR BRAINS!

  21. Check this out ///

    Former S’gor MB Khir Toyol bought a T.O.L. land in Kajang for RM 2 per sq ft and made PKNS buy back at RM 22 per sq ft. he made RM 59 million and gave all EXCO kajang members RM 1 million each ,and pocketed the rest of profit for himself.

    The above stipulate why the UMNO members are in full swing in launching pro NEP demos as chances for them making easy money is getting slimmer, Badawi is a just a lame duck , he can”t even comment on thier demos so far. They are so helpless without easy money, that’s what NEP is all about .

    They only use ISA against the helpless indians , but not against these son of B I T C H E S morons, I hope they start rotting without the easy money and wither away from this planet.

  23. I was told that the demonstration in Komtar recently were the works of the Mamaks and UMNO. Somebody is sending smses to boycott the mamak stalls. Now, Hindraf is appealing on their behalf.

    I would say the Chinese should continue boycotting the stalls so as to show them not to bully the economic power of the Chinese. Let it be a lesson to everyone. We won’t demonstrate or take to the streets but we will retaliate in our own ways.

  25. Dear Sammy,

    How can those arrested for falsifying ID cards and those like Al-almunah be release? But then again, UMNO has already released many of them who grabbbed guns and killed a few in Sg Siput a few years back. If those who did it were Hindraf or Chinese, UMNO would have sent in attack helicopters and C4 them into pieces.

  27. jetaime.f , that’s OK, at least you used your lateral brain unlike somebody and his SIL in whom surgeons have found nothing right in their left brain and nothing left in their right brain.

  28. Yes, please get him to release them unconditionally, otherwise I will assume he did not hear the voices of Malaysians’ citizen but Ghost speaking to him!

    If you don’t take initiative to bring this matter up I am sure it will be brush aside. Thanks again & let’s pray for their release soon!

  29. # aiD_kamikuP Says:
    Today at 17: 15.05 (3 minutes ago)

    jetaime.f , that’s OK, at least you used your lateral brain unlike somebody and his SIL in whom surgeons have found nothing right in their left brain and nothing left in their right brain.
    ================================================

    i should hold back……but i can’t …………mwaaaaaaa…… :)
    well….i guess they just need to be creative but firstly they need to have a clear conscience…..

    jetaime.

  30. Hello Mr. PM , pls wake up , how many wake up calls do u need ? I know u are tired, after you have unconditionally released the Hindraf 5 , you can go to sleep again , don’t worry we’ll keep giving you the wake up calls,
    Don’t worry about your UMNOputras , they are just at the moment trying to keep thier NEP alive so the they can keep on making easy peasy money whilst you keep sleeping. THey just don’t care about you or your ability to hold on to your post. The very least you could do is some justice to the innocent Hindraf datainees, or else the curse of thier families and us is gonna take effect and take a toll on your goodself, For God sake pls listen to our pleas.

  31. ACA DG. Datuk Ahmad Said Hamdan stressing of assets declaration of all government servants in todays Star is of course a welcoming issue that the opposition has been longing for. Wow! the power of the recent political tsunami is really effective man !
    Hi, Datuk , please, keep your words ok jangan buat sebagai only hear the thundering but no rain being fall ok?
    I hope there will be many changes in the BN administration and BN too will look at the Rakyat face to act as what Guang Eng said in the Chinese Press. Rakyat are bosses .
    Mike Tyson ,Please declare and explain mana tu satu juta cash yang lu bawa ke Seberang? i dont think a normal man will carry one million cash to oversea. Perhaps, A gambler, drugs smuggler may do! anyway ACA will do their job.

  32. Sammy Vellu Says: haha! Precisely! So, how to justify? what’s the basis of justification? by religion? by race? grey zone… no one knows… sigh…

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

    perhaps, it is more of, “Are you with me” concept…..or the “In-group” concept……justification is not in their vocabulary…… ;)

    jetaime

  33. Say, aren’t the 5 not detained in an Opposition controlled state? If they are, why don’t the people makkal sakti there to show support and sympathy? Hmmmm?

    And what does the new Home and Internal Affairs Minister have to say on this?

  34. just telling him will not work… you will need to punch it into his ear for him to understand… or at least wake him up from his sleep so that he can be attentive to what you say.

  35. The appointment of the 2Mohds will never be justified. On the surface, it looks like he is needed to strenghten the Selangor UMNO. AAB is willing to forget the RM22mill in Australia.

    In UMNO, no matter how dirty or corrupted a person is, if he is still useful or powerful in the party or president, or in this case, if 2Mohds can bring in the delegates’ votes, then he is useful. Look at the late Datuk Z, a very good example of powerful UMNO warlords.

    But to us, it just brings out the stupidity in AAB and the UMNO gov.

  37. As expected Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, admitted making mistakes during the four years he governed Malaysia. Any regret is now too late as the damages had already been done. Admitting the mistakes made may be viewed as bold, but it will indeed be a difficult task to remedy those mistakes.

    Will the people accept the mistakes made by Abdullah and his merry men and women. I believe he is losing grounds, and the BN/UMNO fate is now closely sealed.

    Imagine Parti Islam (PAS) had ruled Kelantan to close 18 years. All attempts and strategies planned just doesn’t worked. And that is exactly what Abdullah and his team will be facing. The possibility of Barisan Rakyat to retain the 5 states, and to add to the list and even ruling Malaysia will become a reality.

    Even at this juncture, the possibility of BN Members of Parliament crossing over to the opposition could actually take place. Even the few who may cross over to the opposition should be considered a big plus.

  38. Abdullah cannot hear any voices from either any one of us because he believe that he is from the higher being.
    The only voice that he can hear are from his sweet, sweet Jeannie of his and the cocky KJ.
    No point of writing to him either because it will end up as thrash.
    What we have to do is to sit and wait for another few months.
    Things will work out on its own.
    Human laws can be manupulate but not law of universe.
    Be it the Pope or the Lamma, the same applies!!!

  39. Sdr Lim Senior
    [I call you Sdr because of your long standing advocacy of a Malaysian Malaysia, not because I am a DAP member.]

    Yes, do not rest a day till they are released. Remember, you and many others were in there before. Press hard, work night and day for their release.

    The success of M Manogaran, while inside Kamunting, is strong evidence that the people do not agree with the use of ISA, in many situations.

    Clearly, ISA has been abused before, not once but many times, and our friend from Kok Lanas, and the many senior DAP members who have been in can testify to it.

    Prison is cruel, particularly if it is used against political opponents.

    Let it never happen again for Democratic Malaysia, fifty years after Independence.

    * Saudara, let DAP, PKR and PAS speak out strongly on this issue to let these leaders of the Indian Community free.

    If ex-YB from S.Siput personally speak to AAB, he will get one more feather for himself and his ex-BOSS.

    The Internal Security Act needs to be reviewed, if not abolished.

  41. …oops….M Monoharan not M Manogaran……so close. ….like S.Subramaniam….

    Don’t be slow, please…work hard for their release…..it is already 13 days since March 8th, and 2 days since the Cabinet was formed.

  42. AAB could not release the Hindraf 5 now as his position as numero uno in UMNO will be weakened. His opponents within UMNO will definitely take this ‘decision’ to attack him further.

    AAB must take heed of Raja Dr. Nazrin’s advise yesterday

  44. ahkok1982 Says:

    Today at 18: 00.16 (30 minutes ago)
    “just telling him will not work… you will need to punch it into his ear for him to understand… or at least wake him up from his sleep so that he can be attentive to what you say’.

    sheriff singh Says:

    Today at 17: 54.15 (36 minutes ago)
    “Say, aren’t the 5 not detained in an Opposition controlled state? If they are, why don’t the people makkal sakti there to show support and sympathy? Hmmmm?

    And what does the new Home and Internal Affairs Minister have to say on this?”

    Yes ahkok1982 and sheriff,

    How do we punch it in between the 2 ears of Pak Lah?

    Organise a publicised mass signature campaign and/or other mass peaceful actions such as a mass peaceful gathering to call the PM to listen to the voices of the people to release the Hindraf 5.

    Mobilise all the BR parties at divisional and branch levels and all NGOs to collect hard copy signatures calling for the release as well as an electronic signature referendum and/or call to release them.

    Conduct debates/forums to discuss their detention.

    Persist continuously and relentlessly.

    The longer the PM drags his feet over this matter,the more negative the inpact will be on him and the BN.

    The rakyat and the world will be watching resulting in great embarrasement!

    Loud will be the call,as loud as any tsunami!

    Won’t this punch throughin between his ears?

  45. These “survivors” from the recent political tsunami will never learn.
    The only thing that could teach them for good is a powerful “earthquake” that could jolt them out of politics.

  46. Gerakan asked for Hindraf 5 release, MIC whats your stand ?

    I cant understand this AAB guy, he had so many oppurtunities to mend the peoples anger against him but he chose not to …………. sometimes if its your Karma even the heavens cant save you i guess

  47. Dear YB Kit,

    Your experience being in and out of Kamunting knows best the sufferings the Hindraf 5 and other ISA detainees are going through.
    In 2004, the feel good factors have given Paklah a huge mandate but unfortunately he has misused that power and hence the fall out of BN in 2008.

    Paklah said he dislike being challenged. Now I challenge Paklah to charge the ISA detainees in an open court if you can find any evidence of threat to national security. If not it is your duty as PM for all Malaysians to release immediately.

    I am also asking why UMNO members who took part in street protest in Penang recently was not arrested under ISA? Is ISA only for those oppose you?

    Please open you eyes and see those remarks made by these rascals. They are racistx28.

  48. No need to wait for long!
    “Explorer race” is over but “PM race” is coming soon.
    Our contestant, Anwar , Tengku Razaleigh, Najib and maybe even Rafidah(who knows???).
    As for Mukhriz, don’t think he’ll be in the race ‘cos our Tun Mahathir support Najib.

  52. Dear YB LKS: i know there are bigger issues in your hands but there are also issues which the BR-executives can look into…

    1. all police reports about election irregularities
    2. all police reports against the EC
    3. all police reports on phantom voters
    4. all police reports on what happened in Rembau…

    Besides the ACA being independent, the EC should follow the same. The EC can deny but to the majority of the Rakyat, it is obvious the EC is a BN-agency. ACA is no different.

    PM AAB had the chance (was given the chance) to reform the cabinet but didn’t do it. Now he ask for another chance & in some ways admitted that the past cabinet was corrupt & now ask to give another 4 years…for what? Our country may be truly bankrupt when BR takes over. All that is said to revive BN, blah, blah, blah is phony justification to stay in power. The reason for staying in power over the next 4 years is obvious. Last chance to make a killing!!!

  58. Believe me or not, talking about urging AAB to release all those detainees are just words of hope or comfort.
    The way I see as he is, he is a vengeful type of character and does not give in easily, especially to the opposition.
    If he’s wise or sincere, he would not have dropped out those who are against him even if they’ve won.
    He’s now building up his very own army which he think can be trusted by him.
    People like those who are anti “Mahathir” are the most sought for especially the loud mouth Nazri.
    As for Rafidah, pity because of her letter!
    Let us face the facts ‘cos Uncle Lim is only a human and does’nt have any extraordinary power.
    Just hope for the best.
    That’s all!!!

  59. “Who is Mike Tyson”?

    He’s that baaaad boxer who likes to bite off big ears. Watch out Pak Lah. Hahahaha.

    He is also the bag boy who does not believe in banks. He only uses cash. Lots of cash. Lots and lots of cash. Which he cannot account for.

  60. Abdullah has the biggest ear. But he cannot understand what he hears. Why? Not really an intelligent person.
    When BN was trounced he still maintained that he has a strong support!!
    THIS IS THE PM OF MALAYSIA!!! IF other country’s pm would have hidden his face under the bed!!!

  61. Abdullah Badawi is not fit to be the PM . In the first place why he arrested five Hindraf for ISA? Never in history BN lost 5 states. Time for him to step down I say STEP DOWN, before you lose more states.

  62. If he’s another country’s PM, he will no longer be here and you’ll be seeing him back home selling Laksa Kedah by the roadside, of course!
    Lucky for him that this is Malaysia and in here, “apa macam pun boleh.”
    Not only “Malaysia boleh!”

  63. Since BN MPs are told to blindly oppose any Opposition motions, what can be done is to raise a motion of confidence in Badawi supporting him as Prime Minister and the BN cabinet. Hence the 222 BN MPs will have to – as per their own rules – vote against the motion. Voila! Vote of no confidence and the Cabinet is forced to resign.

  64. Malaysia will heal her divisions!
    Which division???
    More so called, angkasawan to space.
    More “Mat Rempit” creating chaos.
    More “kris kissing Ministers” around boasting off with their Hang Tuah replica.
    No way man, unless the “kapitan” is out!!!

  65. Please PEOPLE! FORGIVE OUR BELOVED PM. He is tire because he talk too much, here talk there talk, everywhere he go he talk. Not only locally but in oversea also he talk…NON-STOP.

    You can’t blame him for sleeping during official function because he is TOO TIRE! NEITHER CAN YOU BLAME HIM FOR NO ACTION TAKEN because he is too TIREDDDDDDDDDD!

    SO PEOPLE, PLEASE LET THE PM REST FOR ANOTHER 5 YEARS OK!

  66. When the time come …. when DAP – PKR – PAS coalition is in power ….. let’s put the hooligans from the other camp ( BN ) into Kamunting using their own ISA.

    Ha …. sound ironic when you are doing what you are preaching against but BN will have to understand it before it’s too late.

    Release the HINDRAF 5 and abolish ISA. Or at least ISA should only exercised under special circumstances agreed by BN & BR… I think is still a long way to go with ISA.

    Anyway … we should rally for their release !!! They are at least the champions of the Indian community now and should be treated so.

  67. “The boy who cried wolf” strikes again. AAB has made so many sweet promises in his first term, all of which never materialized. Can anyone in Malaysia trust his words again? The blow given to him when the results of the GE was made known clearly represent the voice of the people. Since there is no freedom of speech in Malaysia, the people have chosen to voice out their grievances through the votes they cast.

    So stop making new promises which are never intended to be realized. Malaysians had enough of all these nonsense. Please carry on sleeping AAB!!!! Good night!

  68. Yeah! He can take all the rest he wants.
    Bahamas or which ever country he likes.
    I’m sure our Mike Tyson is very happy to borrow him his “legendary “suitcase.
    Make sure he give up the post before he goes and I will be the first to sing “Auld Lang Syne”.

  69. I am against the use of the ISA even against UMNO ultras. The thing is that the ISA was originally formed from the Security Ordinances to fight the Communist Insurgency. It is now 19 years since the Haadyai Peace Treaty, yet we still have the ISA around. And what’s worse, it is being abused. The political prisoners are but a small group of people that have been detained under it. But even people like suspected credit card forgers and counterfeiters should have their day in court. The ISA was meant to guard the nation’s security, not be an easy way of the AG to get out of prosecuting a case.

  71. Pingback: Release HINDRAF 5 from ISA, urges Kit Siang | Malaysia | Makkez Online

  72. Mr. Lim,

    Try your level best to get the 5 Hindraf leaders to be released from the unlawful detention at Kamunting. What you are attempting to do is not only a noble gesture but also giving the sleepy PM a chance to redeem himself.

    If the somnambulist PM ever wakes up and heeds the call of millions of concerned citizens and releases immediately not only the 5 Hindraf leaders but also some others who have been incarcerated under vague and ridiculous charges, then we can safely say that the recent election results have had a profound and positive effect on him.

    Moreover it would show that at least he practises what he preaches through his Islamhadhari – peace, tolerance, compassion and equality under the Malaysian sun.

    Having said the above, I have a very strong feeling that Islamhadhari is just another gimmick to fool everyone. If he can condone a highly questionable character who tried to smuggle millions of dollars of currency from a foreign country, and reward him a full minister’s post in the cabinet even though he was not elected by the rakyat, how are we to believe he would do the necessary to see things in the proper perspective?

    So long as he is in denial mode and under the guidance of the 4th floor advisors, there is no hope that he would respect and deliver his pre-election and post-election pledges.

    Anyway let’s wait and see what he does, whether he reinvents himself or destroys himself and his future generations in the process.

  73. SOME REFLECTIONS ON WAYS TO HEAL THE DIVISIONS – By PM Abdullah Badawi of Malaysia.

    “First, we have heard the voice of our citizens…”

    Which is why I gave a position of ministerial rank to one of my Ministers who was rejected by the voters; which was why I smuggled a couple of my supporters through the back door so they could be part of my Cabinet. Which is why I took on board my supporters and detained others facing allegations of corruption. Who says we did not hear the voices of our citizens??

    “…with a 7.3% GDP growth rate in the last quarter, nearly full employment, more than US$100bil in foreign exchange reserves, and a flood of foreign direct investment in manufacturing and services that last year reached a record US$13.7bil.”

    Which is why I booted out Malaysia’s Fat Lady.

    “…powerful attractions for international investors who, over the past 12 months, have included General Electric of the United States, Britain’s Virgin Group, and important groups from the Middle East and China.”

    So powerful that the MIDA offices in these countries have been flooded with enquiries and long lines of “potential investors” have been seen as early as 5.00 a.m. surpassed only by crowds you see on Black Friday in the U.S.

    “The same is true of the need to make additional progress in battling corruption, which is both immoral and distorts competition in free markets.”

    Yes, tenders will now be “open” tenders – so open that the ‘sponsored’ bidder knows what the other is bidding and bids the ‘lowest’.

    But what of the other kind of corruption which does not distort free markets but nevertheless lines the pockets of politicians and their supporters? What of the AP type of corruption? What of the Altantuya type of corruption? What of the “pom, pom, pom” and “correct, correct, correct” type of corruption?

    “Although the size of our majority would be considered a landslide in most countries…”

    But hey! Who says landslides in Malaysia cannot be artificially engineered?

    “Although some quarters have called for me to step aside, my party has given me solid support…”

    Yes, the latest Jeanne Polls show that he is still riding high!

    Certain factions within the party may be able to halt the inevitable and deflect calls for him to take an indefinite leave of absence – but only because he continues to be useful to them. Should these ripples grow into a wave, surfing the wave remains a skill acquired by senior UMNO politicians through the years and is not so rare that makes death by drowning an inescapable consequence.

    “As with any election in any democratic country, there is debate, sometimes heated; there can be divisions, sometimes fierce; then people make their own choices and democratic politicians have to live with the outcome”

    Then people forget. Then they all go back to their families, girlfriends and their jobs – not necessarily in that order. Those in power will go back to abusing their power. It is business as usual. It is “pom, pom, pom” all the way to the bank. Politicians with their wives will continue to be seen strolling along the Champs Elysees accompanied by the spouses of businessmen and their children. Some may just go fishing.

    “I will work hard to create more of a national consensus following our national democratic conversation…”

    Yes, Abdullah Badawi the “consensus” seeking Prime Minister! Could there be anything better than a Prime Minister who so love the rakyat that he seeks consensus every time he makes his decision? Could there be anything better than a Prime Minister who not too long ago introduced the world to a new and hitherto unheard of management style – management by ‘ilham’ which saw Harvard Business School professors scurrying to look for its western equivalent?

  75. THIS IS AN OPEN PLEA, AN APPEAL, A PRAYER THAT YAB PM WILL PRICK A LITTLE CORNER OF HIS CONSCIENCE TO ASK HIMSELF IF HE WAS AND STILL IS CONVINCED THAT THE HINDRAF ‘BOYS’ DESERVE WHAT HE HAS DISHED OUT TO THEM AND TO THEIR FAMILIES. YAB GIVE MEANING TO YOUR PLEDGE OF “HEALING”. PLEASE START WITH HINDRAF DETAINEES (BY FREEING THEM UNCONDITIONALLY). BY DOING SO YOU MAY GET BACK SOME OF YOUR LOST DIGNITY. PLEASE ACT NOW.

  76. CEO of Malaysia – Chief Entertaining Officer ??? Sorry I cannot pass on this one.

    On a more serious observation. Our dear PM last year went on live to record doing business in Malaysia was cheap in an official response to some astute observations from foreign diplomat citing the NEP was making it costly doing business in Malaysia.

    Reading him talk about economic distortion above makes me wonder our PM iall this while must have been really confused.

  77. Yes, please write the letter to the PM requesting the immediate and unconditional release of the Hindraf 5 on behalf of all the rakyat who voted for change, and in particular, on behalf of their families.

  78. hehehe …. mr notsoproud…. maybe we should just bombard YAB’s website or blog ???
    Heard that he sent the Kedah CPO to investigate some theft case before election.
    Maybe he is also reading YB LKS blog now ??? ha ha

  80. Apropos this, I have earlier today written to Malaysiakini:

    Gerakan wants Hindraf 5 released

    Yes yes we all know about that, and it`s rather cloying to hear it from a much humiliated BN Party.
    What is more URGENT is the action by the Gerakan Disciplinary Comittee on Mr. Paranjothy who was supposed to have been sacked on UMNO instructions:

    In an audacious move, a notable Gerakan politician has taken Barisan Nasional coalition leader Umno to task for inciting racial sentiments among Malays to gain political mileage.
    “They incite racial sentiments among their community in a petty attempt to further their political career,” Gerakan Youth vice-chief S Paranjothy alleged today (Dec 21).
    Such attempts, he said, include taking potshots at other BN component parties which draw their support from non-Malay communities.
    “Umno leaders are very found of picking on component parties and use them as their punching bag or stepping-stone to gain popularity in their community,” Paranjothy said in a hard-hitting four-page statement entitled ‘Discrimination from Womb to Tomb’.
    He singled out Umno Youth Chief Hishammuddin Hussien’s keris waving and his deputy Khairy Jamaluddin’s claim that non-Malays would take advantage of a weak Umno leadership, as prime examples of racial posturing.
    He also cited Khairy’s speech at the Umno general assembly last month, during which he blamed newspaper vendors for not wanting to work on Deepavali day. He made a pointed reference to the fact that the sector is predominated by Indian Malaysians.
    http://www.malaysiakini.com/news/76305

  81. Crocodile tears or not..Gerakan asked for the Hindraf 5 to be released.MIC…habuk pun tak da ! Nak patch up Indians konon!
    Uncle Lim and Uncle Karpal, I personally plead to both of you; component parties to help release our brothers in Kamunting.They stood up for us and our kids; they’ll always be our heroes.Our petition to al Tiduri has fallen on his deaf ears.Its already 100 days now..they have families relying on them.
    I beg the BR to fight for our brothers freedom. UNcle Anwar, you do know how it is to be held under ISA? So do many other leaders out there. Lets unite to free the innocent 5 and many others who are framed by BN. YOu’ll be doing Makkal Sakti a great favour ! Perhaps the King can be sought rather than al Badawi al zzzzzzzzzzzzz !!!

  82. I will write an urgent letter to Abdullah before the first Cabinet meeting next Wednesday to urge on the Prime Minister to waste not another day for the immediate and unconditional release of the Hindraf Five from ISA detention. Sdr Lim

    Where is the role of PKR and PAS in this? PKR and PAS should have heard the voice of the people too. IN fact they have benefited from HIndraf movement. Why have we not heard plead from them to release those under ISA?

  84. Bravo

    Release the Hindraf 5 and let them represent something that they is lacking for the community.

    and if the PM heard the peoples voice…he will do it immediately…otherwise its know that he is doing things for his own gain.

  86. It is such a travesty of justice to still have ISA and have the rakyat imprisoned without trial; mostly due to political grudges of Umno! The Opposition should really launch a petition and protest campaign to get the rakyat understand why such evilness of ISA cannot be anymore tolerated especially under a modern century and whilst Umno is shouting out “Long Live Islam Hadhari/Civilisational Islam”! Such injustice is not promoted by Islam which Umno claims to be championing under such slogan. Besides, even the most abhorrent (real) criminals are allowed fair trial; and that include for those barbaric police officers and that Umno-associate VIP who committed such heinous crime towards such a defenceless foreign woman like Altantuya!

  87. Hi Kit,

    Can I humbly suggest that you not use the word “tsunami ” to describe the election results of the 12th General Elections. Remember “tsunami “is a tidal wave that destroys. The 12 election results were very significant showing a tremendous defeat for the ruling coalition. BUT I do not think that you want it to, in anyway, suggest that this tremendous opposition victory will lead to destruction. I am sure you know what I mean. Let us all hope that this victory and change will bring tremendous improvement for the lives of the rakyat.

  88. Dear Uncle Lim.,

    Tsunami is fine with me.

    The tsunami came and swept away many corrupt, rascist, and opportunistic politicians as well as a few political parties with similar characteristics.

    In particular, it rocked BN causing heavy damage.

    It is the beginning of the end – of BN!!!!

    Four years down the road,a new federal government of the Rakyat will arise.

  90. Mr LKS,

    How long more is soon? We have made sure the BN government be denied it’s 2/3 majority, we expressed our vigilant opinions in recent election. One of it is to stop the abuse of ISA and permanently abolish it. “IT”S TIME”

    The first Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman, defined the purpose of the act as to “be used solely against the communists…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 silence lawful dissent”. The third Prime Minister, Tun Hussein Onn, stated at the same time that his administration had enforced the act only with a view to curbing communist activity, and not to repress “lawful political opposition and democratic citizen activity”.

    NOW IT’S YOUR TURN, OR SHALL I SAY THE BARISAN RAKYAT?
    It’s Your time now, Your voices in the parliment must be heard loudly this time around. Release the 5 HINDRAF heroes!
    The clay brains in BN never realised and they are too adamant even tough they were strongly criticised and called for the draconian ISA act to be repealed by human right movements and certain foreign countries.
    Well right now will be the best time for the Barisan rakyat to create a ABOLISH ISA TSUNAMI!!!
    Wish You All the Best.

  91. “The third Prime Minister, Tun Hussein Onn, stated at the same time that his administration had enforced the act only with a view to curbing communist activity, and not to repress “lawful political opposition and democratic citizen activity”.”

    Absolute nonsense. Tell that to Sdrs. Chan Kok Kit and Chian Heng Kai.

  92. Hi YB

    Inform the ISA Minister to release the five leaders including few others. Why are they waiting for, Inform PM to wake and pull up his socks.

    PM informed his Minister to declare their assets.When you see the PM, feedback to him what about Najib, Hashmudin, Taib, Khairy and so on. PKR /PAS and DAP”s knows the corruption

    I suggest that all the five states to place all PKR /DAP /PAS members in the key post.

  93. Gerakan has made a clear voice to release the Hindraf 5 but the MIC is sleeping at the moment. Too tired to speak now because they spoke too much before the election and lost their voices. Samy Velu and Subra are in india having a special meeting. I think it is samy velu asking for forgiveness and maybe subra has forgiven him by asking him to lick his ass…… If MIC can’t do anything before this do you expect anything now as they are like the snakes without teeth and vernom. MIC can continue sleeping with AAB. Do not disturb their golden sleep. Let the opposition carry on their good work and prove to BN they are better administrators. We indians voted DAP, PKR and PAS and we strongly believe and have faith that they will help to bring out the Hindraf 5. My family voted for PAS and that was the only opposition candidate at our place without caring less who the candidate was or even his name. We wanted a change and we have lost hope in BN so it did not matter who the candidate was. I hope to hear good news on their release as soon as possible. They are our eye openers.

  97. >SUPP denies Riot has left party…but where is Riot?
    this news headling is well written.

    yes, taib mahmud’s son, the freshly elected MP, became a deputy minister, whereas those who served for 4 or 5 terms are still not qualified. immediately, we saw that the leaders are working for their own benefit. so much has yet to be told about the taib kingdom in sarawak and how he has been channeling the state’s wealth into his own family pocket. this corrupted practice cannot be continued in sarawak. wake up, please! The ibans/dayaks are just a group of majority who are marginalized by the minority

  98. ///….I will dedicate myself, in this second term, to healing the divisions,,,,,,and ensure that no one is left behind as Malaysia prospers, whether they are ethnic Malays, Chinese or Indians….///

    Healing conjures metaphor of a wound. A wound unhealed fetters and turns septic. The wound is the marginalized status of Hindus and Malaysian Indians in general left behind that HINDRAF fought for.

    When HINDRAF’s leader M Manoharan stood for Kota Alam Shah seat, he won by 7,184 majority with voters cognizant that he couldn’t serve their constituency whilst remaining under ISA detention.

    His victory is an unmistakable message from the people to Pak Lah that, firstly, the plight of Hindus and Malaysian Indians is real and, secondly, the ISA and its arbitrary application to suppress legitimate political dissent is not supported.

    If the ISA was applied for political expedience to suppress dissent, then there is no justification for its continued use by reason of dissent having been sufficiently spent after being clearly expressed – and vindicated – via the ballot box and its tsunami effects.

    If M Manoharan remains under detention after a resounding electoral victory he will acquire the status of a prisoner of conscience elevated to a mini scale version of the Malaysian equivalent to Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi that will in turn galvanise international human rights group to turn their attention to and apply pressure on the Malaysian government to the detriment of foreign investments and the prospects of the government “Corridors” of development.

    Besides an unfounded claim that HINDRAF has terrorist links with LTTE will open the avenue for real terrorist to brew trouble by conveniently assigning the responsibility to HINDRAF.

    All things considered, it makes practical good sense for the PM to heal the national wound by releasing unconditionally M Manoharan and the other HINDRAF’s leaders standing in para position with him.

    To not do so is the leave the gap of wound open and susceptible to further infection ultimately gangrenous to the ruling coalition’s dwindling political stock and the nation’s investment climate.

  99. does anyone in the west malaysia knows sarawakian happily pay double tax for jokingly quoted – one to badawi and the other to taib for hoping to make it with magnum 4d, big sweep, sport lotto.. not only that we even let our resources “liquid gold” to flow to the west and just as happy to pay higher utilities rate than the west malaysian. Well done ! Taib ……there is a place in history book for you long after you are gone.

  100. “Noor Aza Othman Says:

    Today at 00: 59.01 (6 hours ago)
    The Opposition should really launch a petition and protest campaign to get the rakyat understand why such evilness of ISA cannot be anymore tolerated especially under a modern century …”

    It is ridiculous to suggest that there is a relationship between being “modern” and legislation such as the Internal Security Act (ISA). Post 9/11 many countries have adopted similar legislation. The U.S. Department of State has stopped calling for the repeal of this Act by the Malaysian government. In fact the U.S. now has its own equivalent in the form of the U.S. Patriots Act and the Real ID Act. The Brits introduced the legislation to British Malaya to help it fight terrorism which formally ended in 1960. The Brits are still fighting terrorism in Ireland. Singapore has used its Internal Security Act to detain Islamic terrorists. Canada has introduced its own Anti-Terrorism Bill – as many countries have done.

    Now that the world is fighting the worst form of terrorism, and against enemies who look upon death as a welcome release, it may not be wise to call for a complete repeal of a piece of legislation which has served us well during the Emergency years. The pre-1985 Internal Security Act had safeguards against its abuse built into the Act which Parliament saw it fit to remove by way of amendment i.e. the all important right of judicial review. There are others. Suffice it to say that the “evil” lies not in the legislation but in its arbitrary use and abuse.

  101. I talked to some one from Libya last week. He told me every citizen is given some income made from the oil every year, and a bigger family will get more. Gaddafi is a dictator, but he is still doing something good. No wonder he can hang on to power for so long.

    Look at us. What are we given? That kind of gift is even more desirable for those in Sarawak and Trengganu. Don’t put our wealth into the pocket of your cronies.

  102. “We are not in the business of cheating the people.” AAB, 2005

    Looks like he still believes in it, and despite the trouncing that he got in the 2008GE, he still thinks that there is no need to shoulder any responsibility.

    Repeal the ISA, and then talk.

  106. If the mammaks want thier business back they should again demonstrate , this time for the release of the Hindraf detainees, then we’ll all SMS to have all our meals there inspite of the Lau sais’, they should get also get the support of thier leader ex PM Mahatir , the mamaks boss.

  108. ISA may be needed to guard against extremists but holding people without trial indefinitly is not good.

    There must be a judicial review within 2 months and if the police cannot do their jobs properly, something is terribly wrong with the system of justice. I think we should charge or release the HINDRAF 5.

    If one observes the recent demos in Penang, the police appear to have different standards to handle different crowds.

    As for the new Parliament, the news about party-hoppers is not healthy.
    http://malaysiawatch3.blogspot.com/2008/03/elections-are-over-it-is-time-to-get-on.html

  110. The Gomen is fully aware what’s going on / that’s why there are different standards on the ways of tackling the demos, for the Hindraf demo , they used acid rain , pepper spray, batons , but for the UMNO demos they kissed thier their azzes.

  112. “Suffice it to say that the ‘evil’ lies not in the legislation but its arbitrary use and abuse.” Undergrad 2.

    Absolutely agree with you.However in the case of Malaysia, her PMs have gotten use to the idea that ISA is there for their own personal use … to strenghten thier power if not to perpetuate their own rule as well.This draconian has its origin in Britain during the 2nd world when she was under grave danger of being invaded and conquered and therefore having such draconian and implementing them is highly desirable and acceptable to her citizenry.But after the war Britain has not used it even at the height of her problems with the IRA in Ireland.Here we have even lost count of the number of times the MAMAK has resorted to its use and we are also fast losing count of the number of times SLEEPY HEAD will use it on top of the number of times he has already used it!! Even LKY in Singapore has used ISA far less and yet even some of our UMNOPUTRAS have never tire to mention how dictatorial KKY is!!

  114. Is there just anyway other than the election results that we can make the Puteras understand that rakyat in general has rejected the abuse of ISA ?
    ISA , OSA , Sedition Act etc … if properly exercised will be of gain to Malaysia. But, from the way it’s abused …. one really wonder what the Internal Security Act etc is all about. HUMAN RIGHT DISCRIMINATION ACTS !!!
    Please remember that tsunami only washed part os the society’s evil leader. The root of the problem is still needed to be uprooted from it’s ground.
    This can only be achieved through the solidarity of BR.
    DAP will have to show not that it’s only focussed on Penang , since LGE is heading it now. Losing it’s head over heals in Penang will be very …. detrimental.
    So is PKR & PAS.

  116. I agree … boycotts just makes you another hypocrite .
    It’s also going to make economy in Penang bad.
    All micro economies contribute to macro. Work symbiotically in synergy and Penangites will prosper instead of bickering among mamak lah … Cina lah , Indian lah ayoyo …
    Not all mamaks are what they are potrayed to be. just that u have people like KJs , Kerismudin bla bla in BN as well. Some mamaks are also leach in BN as well as other races. A few bad apples doesn’t mean the whole basket is bad.
    We should make Malaysia a country color blind.

  117. New Terengganu MB appointed
    BERNAMA

    KIJAL state assemblyman Datuk Ahmad Said has been appointed the new Menteri Besar of Terengganu and will take the oath of office in Kuala Terengganu tomorrow, the office of the Sultan of Terengganu announced today. – BERNAMA

  118. “The sultan has expressed his wish to see a Malay deputy MB, while predominantly Chinese DAP – being the second biggest party after PKR – is pressing for its representative to be picked as Khalid’s deputy.

    Hindraf wants Mano as Deputy MB

    Meanwhile four Hindu Rights Action Force leaders presently being detained under the Internal Security Act in Kamunting today urged that their fellow detainee and Kota Alam Shah state representative M Manoharan is appointed as a deputy menteri besar in Selangor.”

    Aren’t we playing racial politics here???

  119. Suffice it to say that the “evil” lies not in the legislation but in its arbitrary use and abuse. undergrad2

    I see star a bit. Are arbitrary use and abuse part of the legislation? If the law does not allow it, how can the executives arbitrarily use it or abuse it?

  120. Aren’t we playing racial politics here??? undergrad2

    It is not Monday yet and my feeling is that Khalid will NOT appoint a deputy MB because if he appoints one, that person most probably has to be from DAP which to me is not racial because DAP has the second most number of seats in Selangor state assembly. Now who is playing racial politics? For a long time no body questions who is MB and who is deputy MB because BN led by UMNO was in power. Now the situation has changed, so why start asking MB and deputy MB must be this and that. Now that is playing racial politics. Undergrad2, if you want to hit at people playing racial politics, it is everybody, not just Chinese and Indians. I don’t like the way you insinuate. It sucks.

  122. “Are arbitrary use and abuse part of the legislation? If the law does not allow it, how can the executives arbitrarily use it or abuse it?” limkamput

    You’re going in circles here. The Act has seen many amendments. In 1985, Parliament amended the Act to deny detainees of their right to judicial review – which is a safeguard against abuse and its arbitrary use.

  124. “Undergrad2, if you want to hit at people playing racial politics, it is everybody, not just Chinese and Indians. I don’t like the way you insinuate. It sucks.” limkamput

    Please read it again – this time within its context and carefully this time.

  126. undergrad2, yes i read again your posting, and taking its ordinary meaning, your criticism was skewed toward criticising the Chinese and Indians. However, i do agree it does not matter who plays it, it is still racial politics.

  128. You’re going in circles here. undergrad2

    No i am not going in circles. You are. You have made an inaccurate observation, just admit it and move on. Is without judicial review part of the legislation? When did we discuss legislation without the latest amendments? Even habeas corpus is of no use under the existing legislation.

  131. limkamput,

    If you don’t mind my saying so, you tend to read meanings into what is written which is not there. It would help if you don’t. If at all it is a stinging criticism of anything, it is at the role played by the sultan. The role of the sultan(s) is to protect Malay customs and their religion! Could it be said that the sultan is playing just such a role when he says that the composition of the EXCO should reflect the racial composition of the state?

  132. the only retard and sex pervert here is you. notice you have never stop talking about pimping, sexually transmitted disease, trying to make pass on female bloggers, etc. i know you are frustrated, but please don’t take it out on me.

  133. “Is without judicial review part of the legislation?” limkamput

    Yes, it was part of the Act before it was amended in 1985. Please read my posting in its entirety. The Minister’s discretion was then subject to judicial review. Parliament did not mean to give the Home Minister absolute discretion.

    Like I wrote earlier, the ‘evil’ is not in the legislation as originally drafted and passed by Parliament but in its arbitrary use and abuse. Its complete repeal would deny the government (which one day could be the same government that now governs the state of Selangor) of an effective and important tool to fight terrorism.

    It would also not be in sync with developments in many other countries which have adopted similar legislation but with much more safeguards built into it. The U.S. is but one example.

  134. Yes, undergrad2, I know there are things that we can’t say because it may be seditious. Under such a circumstance, it is best we don’t criticise the Chinese and the Indians. One more thing, in your original posting, you did not comment on the role of Khalid as MB. Did he try to stand up for DAP or was he just conveniently playing along.

  135. Even if the right to judicial review was removed, it does not mean the government must use it in an arbitrary way or/and abuse it to stifle political dissent. Under a benevolent form of authoritarian rule, the use of such a legislation should be as a last resort and to protect national security – and not stifle political dissent.

  137. Sure, that will be ideal and as you said if the government is benevolent. But you and I know most governments are not and that is why there must be safeguards no matter how compelling the need for such legislation to contain terrorism etc.

  138. If you read comments on this blog, there are two schools of thought here. Those who believe in the complete repeal of the Act and the other who believe that we should not repeal but amend the Act to include its original safeguards and more.

    I belong to the latter.

  140. I think I did not make myself clear. What I am trying to say was if you want to criticise DAP and Hindraf for playing racial politics, then I feel that you should include PKR’s Khalid and also sore loser UMNO and BN. That to me would be fairer. We know we can’t touch on other “sensitive issues” so we shall leave them alone.

  145. Don’t forget folks

    “Politicians are liar, when you trust them the most, they will robe you mercilessly and will come back for more.”

    It happen in Taiwan, and in any part of the world not only in Malaysia.

  146. Even in defeat BN has learn nothing. By not releasing HINDRAF 5, BN is still marginalising the Indians. Better if the Agong pardon these true leaders for their people and let them serve. Forget the PM…he never woke up!

  147. Khairy won’t allowed these 5 Indian leader to go so easy, make him lost face only.

    Already 16 days, they don’t even bother abt. it. “Tak lepas, tak lepaslah” what is there to scared, this is Pak Lah way. Something similar “Kalah, Kalahlah!”

    Abt the below:- It looks good, It sounds good, with Khairy behind, is it really true arrr….?

    “First, we have heard the voice of our citizens, and I will dedicate myself, in this second term, to healing the divisions which became evident during the campaign. That will mean developing new and concrete initiatives, not just rhetoric, that bring our people together and ensure that no one is left behind as Malaysia prospers, whether they are ethnic Malays, Chinese or Indians.”

    Pak Lah can read from the paper but can he understand what he’s talking, do he really mean it?

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