BUTTERWORTH, June 8 (Bernama) -- The government is working on several mechanisms to offset the fuel price hike and not depending solely on the restructuring of the subsidy package.
Second Finance Minister Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop said due to the escalating crude oil price in the world market, the government had to find other means of easing its burden and that of the people.
He said the government had spent RM33 billion on fuel subsidies and there was no sign that the price would drop.
"The fuel price restructuring has enabled the government to save RM4 billion but when the crude oil price went up to AS$138.54 a barrel (RM450.25) on Wednesday, the saving was wiped out," he told reporters after opening Tasek Gelugor Member of Parliament's service centre at Taman Merbau Indah, Sungai Dua, here today.
He said with the rise in the crude oil price every day, the cost of subsidies borne by the government could reach RM40 billion, a huge sum and as big as one year allocation for development. Nor Mohamed said the geopolitical risk factor following the Israeli threat against Iran could surge the world crude oil price even further.
The government had to consider several other mechanisms to lessen the effects and ensure that the people would benefit from them, he added.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=338098]
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Govt Working On Several Mechanisms To Offset Fuel Price Hike - Bernama
Malaysia's Anwar says fuel hike aids bid to seize power - AFP
Malaysia's opposition figurehead Anwar Ibrahim said Sunday his bid to seize power with the help of defecting government lawmakers had been boosted by an unpopular fuel price hike.
Anwar said that at least 30 parliamentarians are willing to cross over to the Pakatan Rakyat opposition alliance, and that if the opposition gained power, the fuel price would immediately be cut.
"According to our timetable it is still on. Now it is more attractive after the price hike," Anwar said at a press conference after a meeting with members of his Keadilan party's supreme council.
"In the light of the political and economical uncertainties led by the government, we have seen clearly more interest and support for Pakatan Rakyat and this applies even to members of parliament," he said.
"There is absolutely no reason... for them to remain and support the leadership that has failed the nation."
Anwar said Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's decision last week to hike the price of fuel by 41 percent and restructure the country's oil subsidy system was an "ill-conceived" plan.
[More at http://news.my.msn.com/regional/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1441003]
Saturday, June 7, 2008
CJ, Ahmad Sarji, Keng Yaik made ‘Tun’ - The Malaysian Insider
KUALA LUMPUR, June 7 ─ Chief Justice Datuk Seri Abdul Hamid Mohamad, former Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid and Gerakan adviser Datuk Seri Dr Lim Keng Yaik have been conferred the "Tun" title in conjunction with the birthday of Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin today.
Abdul Hamid, 66, and Ahmad Sarji and Dr Lim, both 69, who were bestowed the Seri Setia Mahkota Malaysia (SSM), top the list of 1,862 people who receive federal awards, decorations and medals.
Squash queen and world No. 1 Nicol David, 24, has been honoured with the Order of Merit and becomes the first recipient of the award given to Malaysians who are renowned at national and international levels.
Established on June 26, 1975, the award is limited to 10 recipients who have made significant contributions in the arts, science and humanity.
Wanita Umno chief and former International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Rafidah Aziz, 64, receives the Panglima Mangku Negara (PMN), which carries the "Tan Sri" title.
Thirty people have been bestowed the Panglima Setia Mahkota (PSM), which also carries the "Tan Sri" title.
[More at http://malaysianinsider.com/mni/cj-ahmad-sarji-keng-yaik-made-%E2%80%98tun%E2%80%99.html]
Birthday parade for King - TheStarOnline.tv
Malaysia's King Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin celebrates his birthday with his Queen, ministers and his people at Dataran Merdeka Saturday.
Electricity Tariffs In Sarawak To Stay Despite Fuel Price Increase - Bernama
LIMBANG, June 7 (Bernama) -- Electricity tariffs in Sarawak will stay despite the increase in fuel price since Wednesday, State Second Minister of Planning and Resource Management, Datuk Seri Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said here Saturday.
He said there had been no proposal yet from state-owned electricity company, Sesco Sdn Bhd, for a review of the current tariffs implemented since April last year.
"All this while, Sesco has had no subsidy (to purchase fuel for its electricity generation plant). We always procure the fuel based on the market price," he added when met after closing a three-day "Pesta Babulang," a festival organised by the Bisaya community in Batu Danau, here.
He admitted that Sesco could not depend entirely on fossil fuel to generate electricity following the unstable world price for oil, and had been actively exploring the potential of hydroelectric power in the state.
"We will continue to develop hydroelectric power in Sarawak as we have a lot of potential for it. We are also trying to develop a hybrid system (for power generation)," he said.
[From http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=338002]
Malay Unity At Its Lowest - Zahid - Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR, June 7 (Bernama) -- Malay unity is presently at its lowest level, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
"Unlike previously, the Malays do not have a common direction and because of this, some groups have raised issues which are no longer relevant like Malay supremacy," Zahid told reporters at the graduation of silat trainees under the Silat Cekak Association of Malaysia held at the International Islamic University, near here, Saturday.
He said the Malays were not asking more than what had been stated in the Federal Constitution nor did they want to deny other races of their rights.
"We just want to defend our rights," said Zahid.
He added that the Malays had also lost their political power, based on their representation in parliament and recent incidents in Selangor and Perak.
He urged the silat members to play their role in uniting the Malays, saying that the art of self-defence like silat should be used to show their love for the country.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=337996]
PM: Get true picture of global oil price hikes - The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said he hoped the people would obtain the correct information on the global fuel price increase phenomenon so they could understand what the country was facing.
Each and every one of us has a role and responsibility in facing these trying times. “As such, let’s face this challenge together with resilience for the greater good of the nation and our future generations,” he said.
The Prime Minister said this in his speech Saturday at an investiture held in conjunction with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s birthday at Istana Negara.
“The Government has held out for as long as possible to protect the people from fuel price increases but the price of oil has risen steeply and rapidly in the world market,” he said.
Abdullah said that in January 2007, the price of crude oil in the world market was only around US$50 (RM164.50) a barrel.
Now, 18 months later, it had risen to almost US$130 (RM427.70) a barrel and analysts were predicting it would continue to rise up to US$200 (RM658) a barrel, he said. The Prime Minister also said the Government was aware the fuel price increases had caused uneasiness and worry among the population.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/7/nation/20080607171312&sec=nation]
Ipoh cabbies impose RM1 surcharge - The Star
By Sylvia Looi
IPOH: In an act of defiance, the city’s 1,200 taxi drivers will impose a RM1 surcharge on top of the RM4 minimum fare here.
Ipoh City Taxi Operators Association secretary Leong Yew said that the cabbies from 15 associations had unanimously agreed to the surcharge from Saturday.
“We have no choice but to impose the surcharge as the petrol price has increase by 40%,” he told a press conference at the association's premises here.
The association's members, he added, had also agreed that they would charge an additional 20% for trips exceeding 10km.
Leong said besides the increase in fuel prices, taxi drivers also had to put up with the spiralling prices of batteries, tyres and spare parts.
The drivers’ decision came despite a warning from Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Minister Datuk Noh Omar that recalcitrant taxi drivers would have their permits revoked if they raised fares.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/7/nation/20080607161407&sec=nation]
Tuanku Mizan cautions against rising food prices, urges lifestyle change - The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Be patient and prudent in facing the possible rise in food prices resulting from the recent fuel price hike.
And if necessary, Malaysians should change their lifestyle to help reduce the impact of the price increases on them.
This was the advice given by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin in his address telecast by Radio Television Malaysia in conjunction with his birthday today.
“I acknowledge that a rise in prices puts great pressure on the livelihood of the people.
“Nevertheless, I hope that the people will exercise patience and prudence in facing the situation,” he said.
Tuanku Mizan hoped that the Government would monitor the situation and take every measure to ensure that the problem could be controlled and overcome.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/7/nation/21487841&sec=nation]
Friday, June 6, 2008
Salleh Abas’ two letters ‘insulting’ King were basis for his sacking: Dr M - NST
KUALA LUMPUR, Fri:
Two letters Tun Salleh Abas wrote to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Iskandar “complaining about noise during some repair work” at the King’s palace near the former Lord President’s house and complaining against the Prime Minister were the basis for his sacking, according to Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in his blog today.
“This (the letters) alone can be considered as very improper,” Dr Mahathir wrote in his very popular blog www.chedet.com. “A man as senior as he was could have asked to see the Agong and verbally informed him about the noise. But to compound the act of les majesté he sent copies of his letter to the other rulers. This implied that he did not have faith in the Agong and wanted the other Rulers to apply pressure on him.”
Dr Mahathir cited a second letter that Salleh wrote to the King, who at that time was Sultan Iskandar, the Sultan of Johor, that, among others, stated: “All of us (the judges) are disappointed with the various comments and accusations made by the Prime Minister against the judiciary not only outside but inside Parliament.”
Dr Mahathir quoted Salleh as writing in his letter: “The accusations and comments have brought shame to all of us and left us mentally disturbed to the extent of being unable to discharge our functions orderly and properly.”
Copies of the second letter complaining about the behaviour of the Prime Minister were also sent to the other Rulers. Sultan Iskandar was the yang di-Pertuan Agong from 1984 to 1989. Salleh wrote the letters in 1988.
The two letters from Tun Salleh were regarded by the Agong as being “highly improper and insulting particularly the copies sent to the other Rulers”, Dr Mahathir wrote.
[More at http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Friday/Frontpage/20080606165007/Article/index_html]
Malaysia's Anwar says 'multi-racial' opposition emerging - AFP
Malaysia's opposition figurehead Anwar Ibrahim said Friday that a "multi-racial, multi-religious" opposition was emerging in his country for the first time to challenge the ruling party.
The 60-year-old former deputy prime minister said many Malaysians of all races and religions were "sick and tired of corruption, of the destruction of the judiciary."
There is a "multi-racial, multi-religious cohesion of emerging forces in Malaysia which is clamouring for change," Anwar told an academic forum in the Philippines.
Recently there have been growing fears over "Islamisation" of Malaysia and the increasing polarisation of the three main ethnic communities.
About 60 percent of Malaysia's 27 million people are ethnic Malay Muslims. The country's minority Chinese and Indians are mostly Buddhists, Hindus or Christians.
Anwar, once heir-apparent to long-time former premier Mahathir Mohamad, spent six years in jail on sex and corruption charges, but now leads a resurgent opposition.
[From http://news.my.msn.com/regional/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1437940]
Demo Against Fuel Price Hike At Komtar - Bernama
PENANG, June 6 (Bernama) -- About 50 supporters of Parti Keadilan Rakyat and the DAP and representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) staged a peaceful demonstration against the fuel price hike for about 45 minutes at the compound of the Komtar building here Friday.
The demonstrators, who carried posters protesting what they claimed was the federal government's drastic move to raise the fuel prices which burdened the lower income group, gathered at 2.30 pm and dispersed at 3.15 pm.
State Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Chairman Abdul Malik Abul Kassim and several other government leaders were seen joining the demonstration, which the police kept under close watch.
PKR Youth Executive Committee Member Aminudin Ahmad, who acted as spokesman for the demonstrators, said the people had now to be prepared to face the possibility of higher prices for goods.
"Every time the price of fuel rises, the prices of goods are bound to go up as well. This is definitely a cause for worry," he said.
Aminudin said the near 40 per cent increase in fuel prices could cause the people to get angry with the government.
[More at http://web7.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news.php?id=337873]
Public Warned Not To Join Demo Against Fuel Price Hike - Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR, June 6 (Bernama) -- Police today warned members of the public not to be involved in any demonstration against the fuel price hike.
Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Ismail Omar said in a statement that based on police intelligence reports, there were several groups who were planning to hold a series of demonstrations in several locations in the country.
"The purpose of the demonstrations is to protest against the rise in the price of petrol and diesel. I wish to stress here that any assembly must obtain the permit of the district police chief," he said.
He asked the public to cooperate in ensuring that public order continued to be maintained.
He said police also received information that several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and certain political parties would hold a night vigil in front of the Kamunting Detention Camp, Perak tomorrow night to demand for the release of all those detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA) as well as the abolition of the ISA.
Meanwhile, police and members of the Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) were maintaining security at several locations in the federal capital which were said to be the venues for demonstrations against the petrol price hike.
[More at http://web7.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news.php?id=337832]
Gerakan suspends FT's Dr Tan - The Star
By Priscilla Dielenberg
GEORGE TOWN: Gerakan has suspended the membership of its Federal Territory chief Datuk Dr Tan Kee Kwong, a former Deputy Land and Cooperative Development Minister who has taken up a post with the Pakatan Rakyat-led Selangor Government.
Gerakan secretary-general Datuk Seri Chia Kwang Chye, in a press release Friday, said the party's central working committee (CWC) decided at its meeting on Wednesday night to suspend Dr Tan's membership and to institute disciplinary action against him in view of his negative attitude and approach.
Chia said that according to Article 17 of the Party Constitution, Dr Tan was also asked to show cause why he should not be expelled from Gerakan.
"He has been given a week to reply," said Chia, adding that the CWC carefully deliberated on several factors before arriving at this decision.
He said that Dr Tan, as a central committee member, should know the party's position not to condone the act of any leader or member accepting appointments to hold official positions in agencies or committees in any of the Pakatan Rakyat state governments.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/6/nation/20080606170744&sec=nation]
MCA going multiracial route - The Star
GEORGE TOWN: MCA is working towards a multiracial direction to ensure a stable and harmonious country for all.
MCA Youth chief Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said although “MCA is a Chinese party, it has never played the racial card and is always extending its services to all the different races in the country”.
“Our party plays an important role in the country. Other than protecting the rights of the Chinese, we are also playing a liaison role to ensure harmony among all races,” he told a press conference last night after attending a closed-door dialogue between central leaders and members here at the Penang Chinese Town Hall.
Also present were MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan and vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat.
Describing the over four hours session as a “fruitful dialogue”, Liow, who is also Penang MCA chairman, said they had conveyed to the members the party’s plans to reform after the general election defeat.
Liow said Penangites had sent a clear message on their disagreement with MCA’s role in the Barisan Nasional in recent years.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/6/nation/21478014&sec=nation]
Shahrir: Why now and not in August - The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The decision to expedite the announcement of the increase in petrol and diesel prices was not an “afterthought”, but rather a need, said Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad.
Admitting that the ministry had assured consumers recently that there would be no increase in fuel prices at least until August, Shahrir explained that the Government could no longer delay the decision.
“After much discussion with the Cabinet and the Anti-Inflation Committee we decided that it was best to make the announcement on Wednesday in light of the rapid global increase in oil prices.
“If we had waited longer, there would have been a possibility of a different price increase,” he said during a special live programme on RTM which was also attended by Bernama general manager Datuk Azman Ujang and Agenda Daily editor Hanafiah Man.
In the 40-minute programme, Malaysians could call in or text in their messages and queries.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/6/nation/21476477&sec=nation]
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Fuel hike protest in KL - Malaysiakini.tv
Some 50 people gathered in Jalan Pasar, Kuala Lumpur, this morning to protest the sharp hike in fuel prices which came into effect at the stroke of midnight.
The peaceful protest attracted a huge crowd of onlookers who cheered from the sidelines and many gave the thumbs up in approval.
Amirul Qualifies For Beijing Olympics - Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 (Bernama) -- Weightlifter Amirul Hamizam Ibrahim has qualified for the Beijing Olympics in August.
This was decided by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) which allows those ranked in the top 15 in the world to compete at the Olympiad.
Malaysian Weightlifting Association secretary Lt Com Suhaimi Khamis said the decision was based on Amirul's performance when he finished 6th among the top 15 finishers at the Asian Weightlifting Championship in Japan last April.
Amirul came in fourth in the 56kg category with a lift of 121kg in the Snatch and 141kg in the Clean & Jerk.
"I received the IWF decision by e-mail today. I am proud of Amirul and hope he can give his best in Beijing," he told Bernama here Thursday.
Amirul would have to undergo intensive training, he said, adding that the venue for the training would depend on the discussions with the National Sports Council (NSC).
When contacted, Amirul said he was happy to be chosen to represent the country to the Olympic Games.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=337676]
Free Water Issue Resolved - Selangor MB - Bernama
SHAH ALAM, June 5 (Bernama) -- Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said the stalemate over the free water concession for the state's people had been resolved.
"We have resolved it. By tomorrow, we will settle it and I think Syabas (Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor Sdn Bhd) will implement the move," he told reporters after attending the presentation of sponsorships for the Sultan of Selangor Cup 2008 football tournament, here Thursday.
On Syabas' claim that it had not receive any written instruction on the matter from the state government, Abdul Khalid said: "This is because of the question of who issues the letter of instruction to Syabas. It is because we have been pursuing the matter through Kumpulan Darul Ehsan Berhad (KDEB)."
It is learned that KDEB, the financial arm of the state government, which has been entrusted to restructure water industry management in Selangor would issue the letter to Syabas Friday.
Meanwhile, former Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohamad Khir Toyo has asked the state government to honour its election promise by resolving the stalemate with Syabas over the free water.
"I hope the squabbles between Syabas and the state government will not affect the people," he told reporters after the Umno Supreme Council retreat at a hotel here Thursday.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=337661]
Sanusi not quitting as IIU head - The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Tan Sri Sanusi Junid will not step down as president of the International Islamic University, a post he considers as part of his “duty to God and service to the people.”
In his second term now and with two more years to serve, the former Kedah Mentri Besar said he also had no intention of using the position to pursue a personal political agenda.
Sanusi said there was speculation over his post after he resigned from Umno together with former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad on May 19.
He was commenting on a June 1 statement by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Khalid Nordin that there was no reason for his services to be terminated unless he played politics at the campus.
He also said he regretted Anti-Corruption Agency's investigating IIUM Holdings Sdn Bhd a day after he campaigned for Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir, the Umno candidate for the Jerlun parliamentary constituency during the last general election.
[From http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/5/nation/20080605210509&sec=nation]
Reconsider decision, urges Wan Azizah - The Star
PETALING JAYA: Calling the fuel price hike "disappointing and unacceptable", Opposition leader Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said the effects of the increase would be seen in the increase of consumer goods.
In a statement issued Thursday, she urged the Government to reconsider its decision to increase the price of petrol as people spend 25% of their income on transportation.
" After paying quite high tax for cars and toll fees, we are now burdened with the high price of petrol, " she said.
She added that the statements on the petrol subsidy issued by several ministers were conflicting.
According to Domestic Trade and Consumers Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Samad, the subsidy from petrol is RM56bil while Second Finance Minister Tan Sri Nor Mohamad Yakcop said that it was RM28bil and it was RM12bil from the Government Financial report 2007. " Therefore, we estimate that the petrol subsidy could be between RM8bil and RM10bil, " she said.
She said the cost of exploration by the oil companies is US$30 a barrel compared to US$130 of the price of oil.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/5/nation/20080605143735&sec=nation]
Fuel price hike: Subsidy still in force
By : Deborah Loh
PUTRAJAYA: The pump price for petrol is now RM2.70 per litre and diesel RM2.58 a litre following a cut in the fuel subsidy.
The increase of 78 sen per litre for petrol and RM1 a litre for diesel still leaves their prices 30 sen below the market rate.
Announcing the hike, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said a 30-sen subsidy per litre will prevail on pump prices, and will be used as an “automatic adjuster” in tandem with fluctuations in the world oil price.
The government will make the adjustments monthly.
To cushion the price increase, cash rebates will be given to owners of cars and motorcycles, based on engine capacity, through post offices from July 1.
These rebates will be given to owners of vehicles with road tax renewed between April 1 this year and March 31 next year.
Those who have already paid their road tax should produce their vehicle registration details at a post office and Pos Malaysia will issue them a money order.
Vehicles with large engine capacities will be levied a lower road tax from June 1.
The rebates will cost the government about RM5 million this year.
[More at http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Thursday/Frontpage/20080605082202/Article/index_html]
Electricity rates go up - The Star
PUTRAJAYA: Less than half of the Malaysian households will be affected by the new electricity tariffs that were announced together with the increase in fuel prices yesterday.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said 59% of Malaysian households would pay the same rates as before the tariff hike, so long as they maintain their usage rates.
“The new tariff will not affect those who only use 200 kilowatts/hour (kWh) and below every month. Their estimated monthly bill should be less than RM43.60 a month,” he said in a statement released to reporters when he announced the increase in petrol prices here.
He said a new tariff structure would be announced soon for Sabah and Sarawak.
As for commercial and industrial consumers, Abdullah said their rates would see a 26% increase.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/5/nation/21463773&sec=nation]
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Fuel hike: 78 sen more to RM2.70 per litre - Malaysiakini.tv
The government has announced that petrol price will go up by 78 sen at midnight - a 40.6 percent jump from RM1.92 per litre to RM2.70.
Drivers' reactions on petrol price hike - TheStarOnline.tv
Petrol prices will be increased effective Thursday. Syawalludin Zain gets some views from Malaysian drivers at a local petrol station.
Malaysia revamps energy price system, risks backlash - Reuters
By Soo Ai Peng
PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia (Reuters) - Malaysia announced on Wednesday a broad overhaul of its energy price system, sharply raising fuel and gas prices but taxing palm oil and power producers in a move that would drive inflation to a 10-year high.
The reforms would save the government 13.7 billion ringgit ($4.23 billion) but risk further stoking public anger against Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, already fighting for his political survival.
Petrol prices would rise 41 percent to 2.70 ringgit a litre and diesel 63 percent to 2.58 ringgit from Thursday, Abdullah said, in a reform that would eventually lift Asia's second-cheapest pump prices to market rates.
Power distributor Tenaga Nasional's tariffs would go up by as much 26 percent while the price of gas supplied by state oil firm Petronas to the power sector would be more than doubled, he said.
"We try our best," Abdullah told reporters in the country's administrative capital near Kuala Lumpur.
"This is not an attempt to be popular, we cannot satisfy everybody, naturally people will not be happy."
[More at http://in.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idINIndia-33907520080604]
Govt Saves RM13.7 Bln From Restructuring Of Subsidies - Bernama
PUTRAJAYA, June 4 (Bernama) -- The government will be able to save RM13.7 billion a result of the restructuring of the subsidies on petrol, diesel and gas and from the levy that will be charged on independent power producers and palm oil manufacturers, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
He said the increase in the federal government's revenue as a result would be used and distributed for the food supply guarantee policy (RM4 billion), cooking oil subsidy (RM1.5 billion), subsidising import of rice for uniformity of price of the staple in Sabah and Sarawak (RM0.4 billion), subsidise flour (RM0.2 billion), bread subsidy (RM0.1 billion) and contributions towards subsidising petrol, diesel and gas (RM7.5 billion).
He said the steps taken to restructure the subsidies were efforts in the direction to ensure market prices reflected reality, improving market efficiency and to encourage Malaysians to save on energy resources.
"The commercial and industrial sectors will be more motivated to implement measures to make their operations more efficient while households will practice prudence in using energy and avoid wastage," he said when announcing the restructuring of fuel subsidies at his office here Wednesday.
He also announced an increase in the threshold for service tax for restaurant services outside hotels.
Restaurants outside hotels which have an annual turnover of more than RM500,000 have to pay service tax at the rate of five per cent.
"There has been complaints that the threshold (RM500,000) is too low and that foodstalls in rural areas also can achieve it.
"To ensure the people are not burdened by the service tax of restaurants operating outside hotels, the government has agreed to increase the tax threshold for them from RM500,000 to RM3 million," said Abdullah.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=337370]
Petrol, Diesel Prices To Increase At Midnight Tonight - Bernama
PUTRAJAYA, June 4 (Bernama) -- Petrol and diesel prices will go up by 78 sen and RM1 per litre respectively at midnight tonight, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced Wednesday.
The prime minister said the new price for petrol at the pump would be RM2.70 per litre and diesel, RM2.58 per litre.
Abdullah told a news conference at his office the Cabinet had agreed on a cash rebate for Malaysian owners of private cars and motorcycles to ease the burden of the rise in the fuel prices.
"A cash rebate of RM625 per year will be given to owners of private cars of engine capacity of up to 2,000 cc and pick-up trucks and jeeps of up to 2,500 cc.
"Owners of private motorcycles of engine capacity of up to 250 cc will be paid a cash rebate of RM150 per year," he said.
The prime minister said the cash rebate would be given to the owners of the cars and motorcycles when they paid or renewed their road tax.
He said the cash rebate would cover cars and motorcycles for which the road tax was renewable between April 1 2008 and March 31 2009.
The prime minister said the cash rebate would be given in the form of money order at post offices nationwide beginning July 1 2008.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=337301]
Rembau election petition struck out - The Star
By Sarban Singh
SEREMBAN: The High Court here struck out an election petition challenging the outcome of the Rembau parliamentary seat won by Umno Youth deputy chief Khairy Jamaluddin in the March 8 polls.
Judge Datuk Mohtaruddin Baki on Wednesday dismissed the petition with cost, saying that there were too many defects in the petition filed on April 25 by PKR supreme council member Badrul Hisham Shaharin, also known as the blogger “Chegu Bard".
"There were many allegations made .... For me, all the petitioner was doing was to cast his net wide enough hoping to strike something," he said in his ruling.
Khairy had polled 26,525 votes in the election, defeating Badrul with a 5,746-vote majority.
Khairy was making his electoral debut while Badrul had contested for the Rantau state seat in 2004 and lost.
Mohtaruddin said the petitioner had also failed to prove that any alleged irregularity by the Election Commission or its agents could have changed the outcome of the election.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/4/nation/20080604101836&sec=nation]
Shahrir: New fuel subsidy scheme only in August - The Star
By Manjit Kaur
KUALA LUMPUR: A new fuel subsidy scheme will be fully implemented only in August and today’s announcement is only one of the steps in the revamp, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad said.
“Any announcement by the Prime Minister (today) should be seen as a part of the implementation and not the final step,” he told a press conference after opening the 1st Malaysian Construction Summit 2008 at the Putra World Trade Centre here yesterday.
He said a full subsidy system could not be immediately decided on now, as the Finance Ministry was still evaluating proposals.
Shahrir said he did not think his statements contradicted those made by the Prime Minister.
On Monday, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said the Cabinet would decide today on a new fuel subsidy scheme and that it would be implemented immediately to prevent speculation.
Shahrir said the subsidy revamp could result in petrol pumps selling fuel at market prices.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/4/nation/21444347&sec=nation]
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Ministry To Submit Proposal On Future Development On Middle Rocks - Bernama
PUTRAJAYA, June 3 (Bernama) -- The Foreign Ministry is expected to table a proposal on future developments on Middle Rocks which include the possibility of joining the two rocks or setting up a scientific research centre, its minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said.
"We are presenting a report to the Cabinet Wednesday on the continuity of activities in respect of the judgement by the International Court of Justice (ICJ), based at The Hague, (Netherlands)," he told reporters after a cheque presentation of Malaysia's contribution to China for the victims of snowstorm here Tuesday.
He said a committee of experts had been instructed to compile data and information on the Middle Rocks, and he would compile the report for the information of the Cabinet Wednesday.
Rais said he was in communication with the Foreign Minister of Singapore recently, and "we thought it would be a good idea for both countries not to politicise the question of Middle Rocks and Batu Putih to the extent that some people have been overly concerned and hugely misunderstood by the decision."
He said that a weather observation station could possibly be erected on Middle Rocks plus other facilities to assist fishermen to carry out their traditional fishing.
"But all these will be brought before the joint committee with Singapore and we have requested for a date to be fixed so that both parties could discuss amicably and chart what needs to be done.
"We will continue to develop or to suggest matters pertaining to the future of Middle Rocks while Singapore may also suggest or put forward their views for the future of Batu Putih," he said.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=337156]
Overseas Umno Club Alumni Wants Higher Scholarship Quota - Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR, June 3 (Bernama) -- The Overseas Umno Club Alumni wants the government to raise the quota for Public Service Department (JPA) scholarships from 2,000 to 20,000 to enable more Bumiputera and non-Bumiputera students to study abroad.
A committee member of the Alumni, Ahmad Zaini Ismail, said the increase in quota would give more opportunities to Bumiputera and non-Bumiputera students to pursue higher studies abroad.
"We hope the government will increase the number of scholarships so that more students will benefit, which means that even the non-Bumiputeras will also gain," he said after attending the closing of the Integrated Motivational Course for Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) students by Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Noh Omar, here Tuesday.
Late last month, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz told the Dewan Rakyat sitting that the number of JPA scholarships for Overseas Degree Programmes for non-Bumiputeras had been raised from 10 per cent to 45 per cent beginning this year.
He said that 2,000 scholarships were provided by the JPA of which 1,100 were for Bumiputera students and 900 for non-Bumiputeras.
[From http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=337146]
Full subsidy system cannot be decided now, says Shahrir - The Star
By Manjit Kaur
KUALA LUMPUR: The fuel subsidy scheme to be announced Wednesday is a step towards the total revamp of the subsidy that will take place in August, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Abdul Samad said.
He said the full subsidy system couldn’t be decided immediately, as currently the Finance Ministry, for example, is still evaluating all proposals and a final decision had yet to be made on the scheme.
Shahrir said the announcement on Wednesday would be an incremental step towards that, and that he did not see the statements made by him and the Prime Minister as contradictory.
"The announcement by the Prime Minister should be seen as the implemental part, not the step towards the final solution.
"I don't think it is the final scheme, as there must be a system if there is a hike in fuel prices, what is the proper subsidy mechanism that the Government will use,'' he told a press conference Tuesday after his keynote address at the 1st Malaysian Construction Summit 2008 at PWTC here.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said on Monday that the new fuel subsidy scheme would be announced by the Government on Wednesday.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/3/nation/20080603144707&sec=nation]
Proposal on Middle Rocks just a suggestion, says Rais - The Star
By Mazwin Nik Anis
PUTRAJAYA: The proposal to "enjoin" two rocks that form Middle Rocks will have to be approved by the Cabinet after studying a feasibility report, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said.
He said joining the two rocks was just a suggestion for the Government to consider after it had been determined that Middle Rocks now belongs to Malaysia following a ruling by the International Court of Justice last month.
"Whether the proposal will affect the eco-system in the area will have to be determined by a feasibility study. These are among points and suggestions raised by various parties but for now, we have to register our presence there through legal means," he said.
He was speaking to reporters Tuesday after handing over RM4.3mil to Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Cheng Yonghua in aid of the people of China who were affected by a heavy snowstorm last February.
At the function, Yayasan Budi Penyayang chief executive officer Datuk Leela Mohd Ali also presented a cheque worth RM50,000 for the Foreign Ministry to hand over to Myanmar Government to assist victims of Cyclone Nargis.
News reports recently quoted Rais as saying there was a proposal to join the two rocks, which are about 500m to 600m apart so that Middle Rocks would have "more space" for Malaysia to carry out activities.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/3/nation/20080603165000&sec=nation]
PRICE WATCH: New fuel subsidy to be based on need - NST
By : Marc Lourdes
KUALA LUMPUR: Fuel prices are likely to go up in August when a new subsidy system is put in place.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Shahrir Samad said under the new system, fuel would be subsidised based on need rather than usage.
"The fuel subsidy for this year is expected to top RM56 billion as petrol and diesel is subsidised by about RM2 per litre," he said at a press conference in the Parliament lobby yesterday.
"We have to find the best way to handle the subsidy issue because if it is not managed properly, usage will just go up.
"If there is no control and no encouragement to reduce usage, our subsidy cost will go up.
"At the moment, the more you use, the more you get. That doesn't sound like a subsidy system."
[More at http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Tuesday/Frontpage/2256802/Article/index_html]
MCA shocked by objection to PSD move - The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The MCA is saddened and shocked by an Umno Youth leader’s objection to the fairer distribution of Public Service Department (PSD) scholarships for all races.
MCA Youth education bureau chief Dr Wee Ka Siong said the last five years had seen an expansion of PSD scholarships from 900 places in 2004 to 2,000 this year.
“The decision to increase the percentage of non-bumiputra recipients is in tandem with the rise in the number of scholarships. It is a win-win situation for all,” said Dr Wee.
He was commenting on the statement by Umno Youth education bureau chairman Ahmad Ikmal Ismail that increasing the quota for PSD scholarships for non-bumiputras without increasing the actual number of scholarships had drastically affected the bumiputras.
Ahmad Ikmal added this meant scholarships were being taken from the bumiputras and given to non-bumiputras.
Dr Wee, who is Deputy Education Minister, said outstanding bumiputra students should not worry about being deprived of a scholarship if their qualification met the criteria set out by the PSD.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/3/nation/21434785&sec=nation]
Monday, June 2, 2008
Need To Minimise Impacts, Says Abdullah - Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR, June 2 (Bernama) -- Unprecedented increases in the price of oil and other commodities, especially food items, need to be resolved to minimize their negative impacts on the people, Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said Monday.
The Prime Minister said there was therefore a necessity to identify ways and means of managing these problems.
He said vigorous cooperation was much needed in the area of agriculture especially in exploiting to the fullest the potentials for increasing food production.
"I do believe that boosting the trade relations between Malaysia and Namibia and increasing investment in any other cooperative ventures between us will also help," he said at a luncheon in honour of the President of the Republic of Namibia, Hifikepunye Pohamba, here Monday.
Abdullah said Malaysia was fully aware that Namibia was embarking upon major economic projects such as developing the Walvis Bay port as a major gateway to the country.
"Malaysian exporters can certainly use Walvis Bay as the gateway not only to Namibia but also to the wider South African Development Community (SADC) market," he said.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=336785]
Malaysia's opposition says some government lawmakers may change mind about defecting - AP
By Julia Zappei, AP
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP) - Some Malaysian government lawmakers who were planning to defect to the opposition might change their minds now that the prime minister has announced policy changes to win their allegiance, opposition leaders said Monday.
Officials in the opposition People's Justice Party nevertheless voiced confidence that enough members of Parliament will still switch sides by September to topple Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi's government.
"My gut feeling is (Abdullah's reforms) are not going to change things very much," said the party's vice president, Sivarasa Rasiah.
Worries about potential defections were believed to be a main reason that Abdullah promised on Saturday to increase funding and improve administrative policies for Sabah, a poor eastern state where complaints about government neglect have simmered for years.
Abdullah's National Front coalition has been jittery about losing power after it clinched only 140 seats in the 222-member Parliament in March elections - the first time in 40 years that it failed to secure a two-thirds majority.
Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim of the People's Justice Party has repeatedly claimed that he can get at least 30 lawmakers, mainly from Malaysia's Sabah and Sarawak states on Borneo island to defect. That would be enough to topple Abdullah's government.
[More at http://news.aol.com/story/_a/malaysias-opposition-says-some/n20080602035609990023?ecid=RSS0001]
Challenger to Samy Vellu's throne - NST
KUALA LUMPUR: The race for the MIC party president has begun with MIC Klang division chief's decision to contest.
P. Thiagarasan, 54, or better known as Alex Thiagarasan, told the New Straits Times yesterday that he was vying for the post held for the past 29 years by Datuk Seri S. Samy Vellu.
"I think that I'm worthy of the president's post. But, if there is a better candidate, then I would make way for the person. I will instead vie for the deputy or vice-president's post," he said.
Thiagarasan, who unsuccessfully contested a vice-president's post in the last party election, also called for abolishing the quota system of getting nominations from at least 300 branch chiefs to make a bid for the party's presidency.
He said there must be a concerted attempt to unseat Samy Vellu if he had not gone by the next election, which was not due until next March.
[More at http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Monday/National/2256168/Article/index_html]
Malay students affected - The Star
PETALING JAYA: Increasing the quota for non-bumiputras for Public Service Department (PSD) scholarships without increasing the actual number of scholarships has drastically affected the bumiputras, the Umno Youth Education Bureau said.
Its chairman Ahmad Ikmal Ismail said while the bureau agreed with the Government to give more scholarships to non-bumiputras, it did not agree with the way it was done.
“The quota for non-bumiputras has increased from 10% to 45% but the number of total scholarships has remained at 2,000.”
Ahmad Ikmal said this meant that scholarships were being taken from the bumiputras to be given to the non-bumiputras.
“We object to this move because it now means that 700 scholarships for bumiputra students are gone,” he said.
Ahmad Ikmal said a better way would be to use the New Economic Policy concept to increase the number of total scholarships. He said this was to ensure that the bumiputras were not affected and the non-bumiputras would get even more opportunities.
[From http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/2/nation/21425360&sec=nation]
Try again, Zaid tells media - The Star
VIDEO: Zaid: Media should unite for reforms
KUALA LUMPUR: Media practitioners should unite and put forward again their proposals for reforms and more press freedom, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Zaid Ibrahim.
Speaking at the National Press Club, the de facto law minister said just because the press had engaged the Government 10 years ago to push for media freedom, “it doesn’t mean you must stop there.”
“Try again. After all it’s part of the changing process,” he told a gathering of journalists, writers, bloggers and civil society yesterday.
Zaid was heckled during his speech and the question-and-answer session.
He said it was easy to blame the state of the media in the country on “repressive laws” but it was important for the press to be honest and look at itself and take responsibility.
“If you don’t want the Government to regulate, then you have to offer a solution. You have to have a better plan. You can’t just say ‘repeal, repeal, repeal’ without a mechanism in place.
“You want to change the law, by all means, make a representation. If you say it’s not your business, then whose business is it?” he said.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/2/nation/21425577&sec=nation]
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Zaid: Media should unite for reforms - TheStarOnline.tv
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Datuk Zaid Ibrahim says the media should put forward again its proposals for reforms and to push for press freedom.
Walk proceeds, but not 'as planned' - Malaysiakini.tv
The walk from Dataran Merdeka to the National Press Club as a feature of The Walk for Press Freedom event this morning did take place, but instead of happening before Zaid Ibrahim's dialogue, it happened at the end of the minister's meeting with media -- mainstream, online and blogs all represented.
According to the organisers, the purpose of the walk was to send home the message on the need for press freedom, journalism ethics and accountability.
Zaid in his dialogue with the media pointed out that it was unfair to lay blame entirely on the government for the sorry state of press freedom in the country.
He argued that media practitioners should share part of the blame.
"You must ask yourself first - do you take up an unpopular issue with your newsowner?" asked Zaid in the dialogue, which was hosted by the NPC.
It was interesting to note that only Wong Chun Wai of The Star and Steven Gan of Malaysiakini were the only two notable journalists present. Editorial heads of the other mainstream papers chose to stay away, and Zaid was quick to notice their absence.
GPMS Urges Government To Review Decision On Non-Bumiputra Scholarship Quota - Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR, June 1 (Bernama) -- The Peninsula Malay Students Federation (GPMS) has urged the government to review its decision to raise the Public Service Department (PSD) scholarship quota for non-bumiputra students up to 45 per cent.
Its President, Datuk Reezal Merican Naina Merican, said the association, without any intention to be racist, wanted the government to review the decision.
GPMS has been receiving many calls from members from all over the country who wanted an explanation on the matter, he said in a statement Sunday.
"GPMS believes in and upholds the meritocracy principle and hopes that the scholarship scheme will be implemented in the right spirit and mechanism.
"The awarding of scholarships should be based not only on the performance merit but also the socio-economic merit of the people so that the opportunity for higher education focuses on the right target groups of Malaysian society," he said.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=336676]
PSD scholarships: Increasing non-bumi quota not good idea - The Star
By Royce Cheah
PETALING JAYA: Increasing the quota for non-bumiputras for Public Services Department (PSD) scholarships without increasing the actual number of scholarships has drastically affected the bumiputras, the Umno Youth Education Bureau said.
Its chairman Ahmad Ikmal Ismail said while the bureau agreed with the Government to give more scholarships to non-bumiputras, it did not agree with the way it was done.
“The quota for non-bumiputras has increased from 10% to 45% but the number of total scholarships has remained at 2,000.”
Ahmad Ikmal said this meant that scholarships were being taken from the bumiputras to be given to the non-bumiputras.
“We object to this move because it now means 700 scholarships for bumiputra students are gone,” he said.
Ahmad Ikmal said a better way would be to use the New Economic Policy concept to increase the number of total scholarships so that the bumiputras were not affected and the non-bumiputras got even more opportunities.
“For example, if the 'cake' was increased to 3,000 scholarships, using a ratio of 70:30, then bumiputras would get 2,100 places while non-bumiputras would get 900 places,” he said.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/1/nation/20080601181315&sec=nation]
Malaysia not giving up hope on Batu Puteh yet - The Star
By Paul Gabriel
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has renewed the search for evidence to stake its claim on Batu Puteh, whose sovereignty was deemed to be under Singapore by the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said although the ruling by the ICJ at The Hague on May 23 was final and not subject to appeal, there was a specific provision in the court’s rules that allowed for a judicial review of a case within 10 years if new evidence was adduced.
As such, he said he had directed Wisma Putra to try again to trace the ancient letter written by British Governor William T. Butterworth to the Temenggong and Sultan of Johor seeking permission to build the Horsburgh Lighthouse on Batu Puteh.
During the hearing, Malaysia had contended that it was on the basis of the consent of the Temenggong and Johor Sultan via a reply dated Nov 25, 1844 (this letter was produced to the ICJ) that Great Britain built and then operated the lighthouse on the island.
“If we can gain sight of that letter, the gate can be opened again. There is a maximum 10-year period but preferably it should be done within six years.
”The letter could be in London, the British being too good at archiving. We have searched with them but it has not been conclusively proven that they don’t have it.
“Probably it is in Singapore. That would be a double jeopardy,” Dr Rais said in an interview.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/1/nation/21421939&sec=nation]
Mahathir won’t resign as adviser to Proton and Petronas - The Star
PETALING JAYA: Former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad says he will not quit as adviser to Proton and Petronas voluntarily, adding that he prefers to be kicked out.
“If they want to take away my positions, they are welcome, as I am not dependent on them and not even if they give me RM15,000 a month. I am not interested. So anytime they say get out, I will get out, no problem,” he said.
Earlier when asked if he would relinquish the positions, he said: “It may be an option, if I feel that I have to do so. But I'd prefer if they kicked me out.''
Dr Mahathir also suggested that Umno MPs form an independent group instead of crossing over to the Opposition if they were dissatisfied with the present leadership.
He said crossing over to the Opposition was wrong, as they would be subjected to opposition policies.
“By forming a separate group, say at least 35 of them, this will cause the Government to collapse and the current Prime Minister will have to resign.
“Then if PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim tries to become the Prime Minister and if the votes go to him and then if Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak have the guts to step in, the 35 MPs can give their votes to him.
“When he (Najib) becomes the Prime Minister, Barisan Nasional remains in power, and it will be no loss to anyone except to Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi,” he told a press conference after his speech during a forum “Suntikan Semangat Satria” here yesterday.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/1/nation/21422106&sec=nation]
Call to carry condoms - The Star
By Lisa Goh
PETALING JAYA: In view of the rising number of women contracting HIV, every woman should carry a condom with her for her own protection, said Deputy Health Minister Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Ahmad.
“This is not to debase them but to protect them. Women are the first ones to get exploited by their partners. But this is just a suggestion, it’s up to them,” he told the press after delivering his speech at the International AIDS Memorial Day here yesterday.
It was the first time that the International AIDS Memorial Day was celebrated openly in Malaysia. The celebration was attended by about 1,000 people.
According to Health Ministry figures, 745 women contracted HIV last year. It is a slight dip compared to 2006 (875), but the general trend is that the numbers are on the rise.
As for AIDS cases, 193 women were diagnosed with the syndrome, and 131 women died from it, while in 2006, 222 women were diagnosed positive and 80 died from it.
Malaysian AIDS Council president Prof Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman said apart from sex workers, many women who contracted HIV were housewives, infected unknowingly by their husbands who could be drug addicts.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/1/nation/21423252&sec=nation]
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Dr M issues ‘kick me out’ dare - The Malaysian Insider
By Debra Chong
PETALING JAYA, May 31 ─ Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad continued to challenge Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today, this time daring the government to remove him as advisor to several government bodies.
At a press conference after delivering his keynote address at the "Suntikan Semangat Satria" (Injecting a Knightly Spirit) forum here, organised by the Minda Melayu Kreatif, Kelab Cinta Amanah Melayu and Arena PJS 14, Dr Mahathir said he was ready to quit as advisor to four government organisations.
"They can take away my position as advisor (to Petronas). I'm not dependent on them, not even if they give me RM15,000 a month. I'm not interested. I didn't even ask for it to begin with.
"I'm also advisor to Proton, Langkawi (Development Authority) and Tioman (Island Development Authority). If they say, 'Get out', I'll get out. No problem ... but I'd prefer it if they kicked out me out," he smiled.
Dr Mahathir was also asked to comment on his son Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir, who has also quit Umno and was asked to step down as chairman of the Sepang International Circuit by Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Ismail Sabri Yaakob, apparently because the position was a government appointment.
Dr Mahathir, however, refused to take the bait and said that it was his son's decision to make.
On whether he thought Mohamad Ezam Mohd Nor, who a few days ago had applied to return to Umno, was a "Trojan horse for PKR", the former prime minister smiled broadly and said that “in politics, anything is possible; what I do know is that Anwar is quite anxious to be supported by Umno", referring to the latter's bid to become prime minister by Malaysia Day, which falls on Sept 16.
[More at http://malaysianinsider.com/mni/dr-m-issues-kick-me-out-dare.html]
PM announces benefits for Sabah - The Star
KOTA KINABALU: Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi kicked off his two-day visit to Sabah by bringing good news to the people of the state.
The Prime Minister's "Kaamatan gift" covered a range of areas, many of which are seen by the people in the state as urgently needed to solve problems faced by Sabah and the neighbouring state of Sarawak.
He made the announcement during a press conference after meeting with Sabah Barisan Nasional leaders and civil servants Saturday.
Abdullah said many of the issues were raised during his visit to the state on April 7.
"We in the Federal government have considered the request made and acting upon it,” he said, adding that they needed to be done step by step.
Among the most significant were abolishing of the Sabah Federal Development Department (JPPS) which had come under a lot of criticism. The Sabah State Development Office will take its place.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/31/nation/20080531221918&sec=nation]
Dr M Likens Ezam's Action As frog - Bernama
PETALING JAYA, May 31 (Bernama) -- Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad has described the move by former Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Youth chief Mohamad Ezam Mohd Nor to rejoin Umno as that of a "frog".
The former prime minister said it was not impossible for Mohamad Ezam to do it again as he had left Umno before and joined PKR.
He also believed that Mohamad Ezam could be a "stepping stone" for PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to rejoin Umno.
"Anwar uses Ezam to rejoin Umno because he (Anwar) is aware that one of the way he could become the prime minister is to have Umno support.
"As such, whatever means to get Umno support will be done by Anwar. Therefore, be careful when Ezam jumps into Umno," he said at the "Suntikan Semangat Satria" (Injecting Hero Spirit) programme here Saturday.
On his son, Datuk Mukhriz (MP for Jerlun) becoming more outspoken of late, Dr Mahathir said, "If politicians can criticise before, why not now?"
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=336509]
FUEL-BUYING FRENZY AT BORDER: Thai motorists start crossing over at 7am - NST
RANTAU PANJANG: Thai motorists are rushing to fill up at petrol stations along the border area although the government had postponed the ruling which prohibits them from filling up their vehicles' tanks with subsidised fuel to Monday.
Many Thais apparently did not know about the decision and thought that yesterday was the last day they were allowed to buy subsidised diesel in Malaysia.
A check at the border yesterday showed that people were coming from as far away as north Thailand and they had crossed over to Kelantan as early as 7am. Their number had swelled to 800 by afternoon.
Members of the General Operations Force (GOF) and officers from the State Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs were here to keep an eye on the situation, especially at the town's four petrol stations.
However, despite their presence, quarrels have been reported between motorists and petrol station operators.
A spokesman of the state Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs said the quarrels were the result of a misunderstanding.
[More at http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/Frontpage/2254899/Article/index_html]
Put politics aside, says Tan - The Star
By Teh Eng Hock
PETALING JAYA: A defiant Federal Territory Gerakan chief Datuk Dr Tan Kee Kwong called on those who had asked him to resign for taking up a post in Pakatan Rakyat-led Selangor to rise above politics.
He said with many issues currently troubling the people, it was time to rise above political interests for the greater good of the country.
Dr Tan, who was issued a show-cause letter by his party for taking up the post as co-chairman of Selangor’s special task force on land issues, said he had yet to decide whether to reply to the letter.
He told The Star that he fully understood the implications of the letter.
“As a former vice-president, I have previously taken part in many disciplinary actions, including sending out show cause letters.
“I have until June 7 to respond. I have not decided (whether to reply),” he said.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/31/nation/21413845&sec=nation]
Friday, May 30, 2008
Bandar Mahkota Cheras access road to remain open - TheStarOnline.tv
The cabinet has decided that the Bandar Mahkota Cheras access road will remain open until the court decision on the matter.
Ku Li Suggests Election Of Umno Leaders Through Polls By All Members - Bernama
KOTA BAHARU, May 30 (Bernama) -- Gua Musang Umno division head Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah suggests that leaders at all levels in Umno, including the president, be elected through the polls by all party members.
In doing so, he believed, it could restore the party's image which had been dented following the March general election.
"We give back the power to the people by allowing them to choose the leaders at all levels through votes or other mechanisms," he told reporters after opening the Kelantan branch of the Council of Former Malaysian Elected Representatives (Mubarak) here Friday.
Tengku Razaleigh, who is also Gua Musang Member of Parliament, said Umno's 3.4 million members should be allowed to decide on the leaders in the party, at all levels, through votes.
He also suggested that the person be appointed for the post of the party State Liaison Committee Chairman be decided by Umno division leaders in the respective states, instead of the party president.
Tengku Razaleigh said that as an Umno member, he felt it his responsibility to make the suggestions with the intention of restoring Umno's image.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=336390]
Ku Li: I will not drop out of race - The Star
By Ian McIntyre
KOTA BARU: Umno veteran Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah will not drop out of the race for the Umno presidency even if party president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi steps down.
“I offered myself not because of the Pak Lah (factor) but to rejuvenate Umno and to restore direction as the future now looks bleak. It is also to revive nation-building,” he said.
Tengku Razaleigh, the Gua Musang Umno division chief and a former party vice-president, has offered to vie for the presidency in the party polls scheduled in December. However, he has to garner 30% nominations from the Umno divisions to enable him to contest.
Earlier, when launching the Kelantan Tomoi (Thai Kickboxing) Association at Kedai Buluh, Kuala Besar here, he said that among the reasons why he offered to contest the post was to bring back Umno’s “soul”.
He said that to revive Umno’s soul in its political struggle, he had to reach out to all levels, starting with the grassroots.
Tengku Razaleigh said he chose to kick off his campaign in the PAS heartland of Pengkalan Chepa because “PAS is strong here and Umno is disillusioned.”
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/30/nation/20080530180552&sec=nation]
Parliament may follow British system, says Deputy Speaker - The Star
By Sim Leoi Leoi, Loong Meng Yee and Paul Choo
KUALA LUMPUR: Parliament should sit for the whole year to give MPs more time to debate and pass Bills.
This was the suggestion of Deputy Speaker Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar who said that in the new Parliament, more MPs were taking their time to debate Bills.
“For this meeting, we have had to postpone several Bills which were supposed to be debated to the next meeting because of time constraint.
“Maybe we will have to do a Westminster-style Parliament which sits for the whole year with holidays in between,” he told reporters at the Parliament lobby here yesterday.
He said that in Malaysia, Parliament meetings are fixed for three times a year.
Parliament had to struggle to finish debating and passing the Supplementary Supply Bill and the Pensions (Amendment) Bill despite the Dewan sitting for an extra two days.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/30/nation/21402778&sec=nation]
Dr M: I’m out, he’s (Ezam) in - The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was his usual sarcastic self when commenting on former PKR Youth leader Ezam Mohd Nor rejoining Umno.
“Saya keluar, dia masuk. Baguslah dia sayang Umno (I leave and he is back in. Good that he loves Umno),” he quipped.
The former premier and party president was asked to comment yesterday on Ezam's move to rejoin Umno this week although he had left the party to help set up what was then known as Parti Keadilan.
Ezam, who was once Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s political secretary, followed Anwar out of Umno in 1998 after the former deputy prime minister was sacked. He was also detained under the Internal Security Act for his role in the reformasi movement.
However, Ezam quit Keadilan last year after a fallout with Anwar and an internal power struggle with current PKR vice-president Azmin Ali.
He then set up Gerak, a non-governmental organisation fighting against corruption and upholding judicial independence.
Dr Mahathir was speaking to reporters after autographing 100 copies of his book, Dr Mahathir's Selected Letters to World Leaders. The autograph session was organised in conjunction with the international BookFest@Malaysia 2008 exhibition.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/30/nation/21401167&sec=nation]
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Ezam Ready To Go For Umno Youth Chief Post If There Is Support - Bernama
PETALING JAYA, May 29 (Bernama) -- Former Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Youth chief, Mohamad Ezam Mohd Nor, said he was ready to contest the Umno Youth chief post if his leadership could help raise the status of the Malays as a respected race.
However, he said, being new in the party might not allow him to make such a big decision.
Still, Mohamad Ezam said, he would discuss the matter with other Umno leaders before making a decision.
"I have to discuss first with the leadership and with friends. If the post is for party and national interests and in the interest of the Malays, I will seriously consider," he said.
He was asked to comment on the possibility that his entry into Umno was to fill the post to be vacated by current Umno Youth chief, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein.
[From http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=336149]
Malaysian opposition shrugs off defections to ruling party - AFP
Malaysia's opposition on Thursday shrugged off a rash of defections to the ruling party, which have come as a much-needed boost for embattled Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
Ezam Mohamad Nor, a former senior member of opposition figurehead Anwar Ibrahim's Keadilan party, is the most prominent of the six who are being welcomed back into the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO).
He left UMNO in 1999 after the sacking of Anwar, a one-time deputy premier who spent six years in jail on corruption and sex charges before being freed and storming back onto the political scene.
Ezam, who had served as Anwar's political secretary, quit Keadilan last year reputedly after a power struggle with another top party official.
"Ezam's decision will have little impact on the party. We are on an upward trend now," said Keadilan information chief Tian Chua.
Chua said the five others joining UMNO were associates of Ezam who had been "hanging in limbo".
"A few of them have nowhere to go, and UMNO desperately needs some event to show that they can reverse the trend of people leaving and the relevance of UMNO waning," he told AFP.
[More at http://news.my.msn.com/regional/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1424309]
University Act to be amended to remove doubts - The Star
By Mazwin Nik Anis
PUTRAJAYA: The amendments to the University and University Colleges Act will see provisions that are “no longer needed” removed in an effort to clear doubts on the purpose of the Act.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said there are many misconceptions and misunderstandings related to the Act because part of its provisions are being politicised by certain quarters.
“Even though there is a need for the Act to be in place, it is not meant to control students’ involvement in constructive activities. This is evident in the level of thinking and understanding showed by student leaders who attended today’s meeting.
“With the amendments, there will be a clearer guideline because we want all students to participate in constructive activities. This is why we give them a chance to further their studies at the tertiary level.
“However, if there are any provisions in the act that are no longer needed, we will amend them to clear doubts on the purpose of having the Act,” he told reporters Thursday after spending almost two hours with student leaders at the student consultative council meeting.
Also present were Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Khaled Nordin and Public Services director-general Tan Sri Ismail Adam.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/29/nation/20080529134245&sec=nation]
Anwar Will Run for Malaysia Parliament Once Eligible - Bloomberg
By Haslinda Amin and Angus Whitley
May 29 (Bloomberg) -- Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim, freed from prison in 2004, said he'll ``immediately'' contest a parliamentary seat once he confirms his eligibility, part of a plan to topple the government by mid-September.
``If we're absolutely certain of my eligibility, we would opt to do it immediately,'' he told Bloomberg Television in an interview today. Anwar said he doesn't have confirmation from Malaysia's Attorney General that he can hold public office, after serving time in jail on corruption charges he denies.
Anwar, 60, a former Malaysian deputy premier, is seeking to overthrow a coalition that's ruled since independence from Britain in 1957. Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, weakened in March 8 elections, is introducing measures to slow inflation and reduce corruption to win back public support.
Anwar, who has calculated he was legally able to be a lawmaker in mid-April, said he may instruct his lawyers to seek an official response from the Attorney General unless he has a ruling by the end of this month.
Malaysian Attorney General Abdul Gani Patail declined to comment when reached on his mobile phone today.
Anwar today repeated claims that his alliance has lined up the necessary 30 defections from Abdullah's coalition to take power. He also said the opposition coalition will discuss who might have the role of deputy prime minister in any potential government that he would lead.
[More at http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aMzbNaC0jIv0&refer=home]
FT Gerakan Chief Confirms Taking Up Pakatan Rakyat's Offer - Bernama
By Alan Ting
KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 (Bernama) -- Federal Territory Gerakan chief Datuk Dr Tan Kee Kwong Wednesday confirmed that he has accepted an offer from the Pakatan Rakyat (PR) controlled Selangor government to head a special task force on land management.
Tan, 61, a former deputy minister, has followed the example of former Gerakan deputy secretary-general Datuk Lee Kah Choon, who accepted the PR Penang government’s offer to head two key state agencies - InvestPenang and Penang Development Corporation.
"Yes, I have taken up the offer to be joint chairman of the six-member task force.
I'm thankful to the Selangor Government for the trust they have placed in me and to tap on my experience in dealing with land matters.
"A lot of things need to be done and we have been given three months to come out with a report to the Selangor government on the matter of land titles," he told Bernama when contacted late Wednesday night.
Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim Wednesday evening announced the formation of the task force comprising six members to be jointly chaired by Tan and Datuk Dr Nik Mohd Zain Nik Mohd Yusof.
Tan was deputy land and cooperative development minister from 1999 to 2004 while Mohd Zain had been the ministry’s director-general from 1996 to 2002.
[More at http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news.php?id=335940]
Gerakan’s Tan ‘joins’ Pakatan - The Star
By Dharmender Singh and Christina Tan
SHAH ALAM: Datuk Dr Tan Kee Kwong became the second Gerakan leader to take up a post with an Opposition-led state government.
The Federal Territory Gerakan chief and former Deputy Land and Cooperative Development Minister was named as co-chairman of Selangor's special task force on land issues.
Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim said the other co-chairman was former Land and Cooperative Development Ministry secretary-general Prof Datuk Dr Nik Mohd Zain Nik Yusof.
The appointment of Dr Tan means he will now be working for the Pakatan Rakyat state government.
Last month, Gerakan deputy secretary-general Lee Kah Choon accepted the Penang government's offer to take up the posts of InvestPenang executive chairman and Penang Development Corporation director. Lee later quit Gerakan.
Khalid said Dr Tan and Prof Dr Nik Mohd Zain would head a six-member task force that would study the management of land in Selangor and related policies, issues and problems before submitting suggestions for improvement.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/29/nation/21392333&sec=nation]
Foreigners to pay full price for fuel, says Pak Lah - The Star
By Elizabeth Looi
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said an announcement on how this would be done would be made when the time was right.
“Foreigners will definitely have to pay the full price when we make the announcement and (when we) enforce it immediately,” he told a press conference in Parliament here yesterday.
Abdullah said some people had taken advantage of the country’s cheaper fuel prices by smuggling it into other countries for a profit.
He also said the Government would decide on the use of the MyKad for petrol purchases soon.
On another matter, Abdullah said it was all right for Umno members, including those who were MPs, to make constructive criticism against the Government or party policies as long as they got their facts right.
“Our current practice is not like we are going to take serious action against them, but if what was said was factually wrong, then the party must take action,” he said.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/29/nation/21390283&sec=nation]
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Ezam meets PM, rejoins Umno - Malaysiakini.tv
Former PKR Youth chief Ezam Mohd Nor held a 30-minute meeting with Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in Parliament today to submit his application form and a RM100 in lifetime membership fee to rejoin Umno.
Najib Welcomes Ezam's Readmission Into Umno - Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 (Bernama) -- Deputy Prime Minister and Umno Deputy President Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak Wednesday welcomed the readmission of former Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Youth leader Mohamad Ezam Mohd Nor into Umno, and said Ezam's move showed that he had lost confidence in PKR's struggle.
It also showed that Ezam was convinced of the credibility of Umno and that it was the right platform for his political struggle, he told reporters when commenting on Ezam's rejoining Umno Wednesday.
Ezam had handed his application form and RM100 life membership fee to Prime Minister and Umno President Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi after calling on the latter at the prime minister's office at Parliament House.
Asked about the opposition to Ezam's readmission into Umno from several sections of Umno Youth, Najib said Umno should open its doors to those who chose to support the party.
"If we pick and choose, we will lose many of those who want to support us," he said.
Elaborating, he said Umno's history showed that the party had readmitted many who had opposed it at one time and, as such, Ezam's readmission was not an issue.
[More at http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v3/news.php?id=335912]
Malaysia posts 7.1 percent economic growth - AFP
Malaysia's economy expanded at an annual rate of 7.1 percent in the first quarter of 2008, and faces only a modest slowdown later in the year, the central bank said Wednesday.
Bank Negara also announced an easing of foreign exchange rules, in a move it said would boost Malaysia's competitiveness by making it easier to gain access to finance and reducing the cost of doing business.
The strong outcome for the three months to March compared to 5.5 percent growth in the previous corresponding period, and 7.3 percent in the fourth quarter of last year. The economy grew 6.3 percent in 2007.
Bank Negara said expansion was broad-based across all sectors, including agriculture which hit 6.3 percent compared with 3.8 percent in the first quarter of last year.
"Generally our forecast for the year of 5-6 percent growth remains," said central bank governor Zeti Akhtar Aziz, adding that growth was fuelled by high commodity prices and civil service pay rises.
"The global economy is expected to moderate in the second half of this year... and while the Asian region has done well in this first quarter, including Malaysia, we are likely to be affected," she told a press conference.
"However our assessment is that the underlying strength of our economy is likely to support growth in the second half of the year," she said. "Therefore, while slowdown or moderation is expected, it is expected to be modest."
[More at http://news.my.msn.com/regional/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1421936]
Polls talk ploy to prevent defections: Guan Eng - The Sun
GEORGE TOWN (May 28, 2008): The Election Commission's talk about snap election appears to be a plan hatched by certain quarters to prevent any change of government by defections or crossovers, Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said today.
"That's why I think it is important that this is not used as a device because there's some talk that to prevent people from jumping over, they are using the threat of snap election to stop them from doing so," he said in a press conference after announcing a RM115.2 million investment by Honeywell Aerospace here.
"Is this a device? It looks like it to me. They are saying, if you jump over, we can have snap election and you will get defeated," he said.
"Is that the real message they are trying to send out?"
Lim also asked EC chairman Tan Sri Abdul Rashid Abdul Rahman to reveal the identity of the party who had told him that there was going to be a snap election.
"Has he been getting indications from the Cabinet or the prime minister?" he asked.
Lim said it is the government of the day which has the power to call for a snap election and not the EC.
[More at http://www.sun2surf.com/article.cfm?id=22737]
Dr M flies back to rousing welcome - The Star
VIDEO: Dr M flies back to rousing welcome
KUALA LUMPUR: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad came back to a rousing and emotional welcome when he arrived here from Tokyo yesterday.
Shouts of Hidup Tun (long live Tun) reverberated as the former Prime Minister addressed and thanked the crowd with a loud speaker from the sunroof of a four-wheel-drive vehicle after he touched down at the Subang airport about 6pm.
Dr Mahathir, had recently quit Umno, the party he led for more than two decades. He was accompanied by his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali.
“Thank you. If I’m not wrong, when I was an Umno member before, the welcome that I received was no different than now.
“When I was an Umno member, I was not treated like one, so there is no difference in becoming a member or not,” he said to resounding cheers.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/28/nation/21378900&sec=nation]
Standoff over Cheras barrier - The Star
By Rashitha A. Hamid, Fazleena Azia and Elizabeth Looi
KUALA LUMPUR: Tensions ran high at Bandar Mahkota, Cheras, when hundreds of residents gathered to remove a barricade which was rebuilt early yesterday to prevent access into the area.
Four people were arrested in the incident.
Grand Saga Sdn Bhd, the concessionaire of the Cheras-Kajang Highway, had reconstructed the barricade after it was taken down by the residents a few weeks ago.
A fracas ensued at about 7.15pm when a group of unidentified men armed with sticks and helmets attacked the residents. Several residents were taken to hospital.
Also injured was a photographer from Utusan Malaysia, Roy Azis Abdul Aziz, who was beaten up when he tried to snap some photographs.
Several cars parked at the roadside were also smashed by the group.
[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/28/nation/21381222&sec=nation]
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Dr M flies back to rousing welcome - TheStarOnline.tv
Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s supporters, including many Umno branch leaders from Jerlun, Kedah, gave him a rousing welcome at the Subang airport after he arrived from Tokyo Tuesday.
PM: Media should practice voluntary self-censorship - TheStarOnline.tv
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi says no to the notion of unlimited freedom for the media. His speech was delivered by his deputy Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak at the opening of the Asia Media Summit 2008.
Dr M returns from Tokyo to some fanfare - The Malaysian Insider
By Debra Chong
SUBANG, May 27 — Some had been waiting since 4pm while others started gathering at the layby leading to the private airstrip where Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s plane would touch down from about 5pm. The former prime minister was due back from Japan.
The 300 odd supporters – some from as far as Jerlun, Kedah – and members of the media had gathered by the side of the road to greet Tun Dr Mahathir. Banners and placards welcoming him home were in evidence and every other person was seen wearing a blue badge which read "Perjuangan mu belum selesai." This line echoed the title of a poem Dr Mahathir wrote way back in May, 1996 – "Perjuangan Yang Belum Selesai."
Meanwhile, moisture-laden rain clouds were overhead. Finally, a metallic silver SUV with Dr Mahathir on board headed down the road. It was part of a convoy of cars leaving the area. The time was 6pm and a few drops of rain were beginning to fall.
He popped up through the sun roof and the crowd cheered: “Hidup Tun! Hidup Tun!” Although he looked cheerful, he sounded a tad tired as he addressed the crowd with a megaphone.
Even though he only spoke for a few minutes, he did not miss an opportunity to take yet another dig at Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. In an obvious reference to the loss of Pedra Branca, Dr Mahathir said, "Dengan Singapura pun takut."
[More at http://www.malaysianinsider.com/mni/dr-m-returns-to-some-fanfare.html]
MP Asks Why Philippines Has Not Dropped Claim To Sabah - Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR, May 27(Bernama) -- A Member of Parliament from Sabah Tuesday questioned as to why the Federal Government was being overly diplomatic to the Philippines when the republic still did not want to drop its claim to the state.
Datuk Bung Moktar Radin (BN-Kinabatangan) said the Philippines also still did not show they valued Malaysia's cooperation in trying to help resolve their conflict in Mindanao.
"Why are we being too nice to them when they have not even opened up a consulate in Sabah or dropped their claim to ownership of the state," said the Backbenchers Club deputy chairman when debating the Supplementary Supply Bill (2007) 2008 in the Dewan Rakyat Tuesday.
Monday, another MP from Sabah, Datuk Wilfred Bumburing (BN-Tuaran) had urged the government to act fast on the problem of illegal immigrants in Sabah following statements by Moro National Liberation Front leader Nur Misuari that the dispute over Sabah be referred to the International Court of Justice.
On another matter, Bung Moktar also wanted the governmnet to investigate why Rangkaian Pengangkutan Integrasi Deras KL (RapidKL) did not use 1,000 buses valued at RM500 million used by Intrakota and Parkmay Sdn Bhd to improve public transportation in Kuala Lumpur when they were already available for use.
[More at http://www.bernama.com.my/bernama/v3/news.php?id=335712]
