Dec 23, 2008 By Suganthi Suparmaniam and Brenda Lim
KUALA LUMPUR: Non-governmental organisations and religious bodies have lashed out at Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin for suggesting that people who are HIV positive be quarantined and not allowed to marry.
Tenaganita director Irene Fernandez said quarantining a HIV positive person was a violation of his or her human rights.
"It is inhumane. Why quarantine? HIV is not like cholera or dengue. The virus can only be transmitted through four ways and controlled through behavioural changes," she said, adding that Nizar lacked awareness on HIV and AIDS.
She said denying a HIV-positive person the chance to marry was also a violation of human rights and those who wanted to marry should instead be counselled on how to manage their marriage.
"This kind of response, after so many years, shows we are still a long way off in giving a more humane and dignified treatment to those with HIV."
Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism president Datuk A. Vaithilingam said he was disappointed with Nizar's statement.
"My advice is for him to visit the Malaysian AIDS Council and spend at least two hours there. Get a good briefing for a better understanding of the disease."
However, the council's Selangor chairman Joseph Thambiah agreed that HIV victims be quarantined -- but only through persuasion.
He said this would reduce the opportunities for contact between sufferers and the public, thus reducing the chances of more infections.
He said AIDS was different from diseases such as diabetes and described it as a "socially contemptuous disease".
Malaysian AIDS Council president Prof Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman described Nizar's comment as "very regretful".
National Council of Women's Organisations deputy president Datuk Ramani Gurusamy said not allowing people with HIV to marry would be to infringe on their human rights.
Pengasih drug rehabilitation centre president Mohd Yunus Pathi said separating people with and without HIV would not solve the problem.
Instead, he said, people with highly contagious diseases like tuberculosis should be the ones who needed to be quarantined.
Perak Umno liaison committee member and Umno Lumut division chairman Datuk Dr Zambry Abd Kadir was aghast with the suggestion.
"How long do you want to quarantine them? For their entire life?"
Gerakan deputy president Datuk Chang Ko Youn said Nizar's suggestion would only alienate HIV carriers from society and push them to be secretive about their condition rather than openly seek treatment, thus fuelling the spread of the disease.
"This idea has been condemned internationally and is an unacceptable form of solution to the AIDS problem."
Ipoh City Watch president N. Sreethararaj said individuals who tested positive for HIV should be given counselling and treatment rather than be quarantined.
Screening for HIV would help the government compile a database on those infected with HIV and formulate programmes to handle the disease, such as taking preventive measures in the states most affected by HIV, he said.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Najib: No multinational corporation has left the country - Sun
PUTRAJAYA ( Dec 23, 2008):
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak stressed today that no multinational corporation (MNC) had left the country following the slump in the world economy.
He clarified that most of the MNC's had only reduced their operations.
"Some are downsizing their operations but are not leaving," he said after chairing the National Land Council meeting here.
Meanwhile, asked about the possibility of small and medium industries (SMIs)closing down next year as a result of the economic unstability, Najib said: "The government is ready to consider ways to assist.
"The SMIs are facing an extraordinary situation which has caused a shortfall in the demand for their products."
He also expressed the hope that the Ministries concerned would forward their suggestions to the government. -- BERNAMA
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak stressed today that no multinational corporation (MNC) had left the country following the slump in the world economy.
He clarified that most of the MNC's had only reduced their operations.
"Some are downsizing their operations but are not leaving," he said after chairing the National Land Council meeting here.
Meanwhile, asked about the possibility of small and medium industries (SMIs)closing down next year as a result of the economic unstability, Najib said: "The government is ready to consider ways to assist.
"The SMIs are facing an extraordinary situation which has caused a shortfall in the demand for their products."
He also expressed the hope that the Ministries concerned would forward their suggestions to the government. -- BERNAMA
Tee Keat explains his dilemma on Soi Lek's request for a ministerial post - Sun
KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 23, 2008) : By Kong See Hoh
MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat says Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek has asked to be recommended for a ministerial post after winning the party No. 2 post.
Disclosing this during an interview with Oriental Daily News two months after the party elections, Ong said Chua's request put him in a spot as the latter's victory in the election did not exonerate him over the sex video scandal.
"I don't want to judge values, I am talking about an objective fact. Under this situation, you tell me, what type of logic should I apply to handle it (Chua's request)?
"The case of the sex video scandal is still there. Under this circumstance, what kind of wisdom should I use to handle it?"
These questions underline Ong's feeling of helplessness.
On the seeming lack of cooperation between him and Chua, Ong, who exchanged verbal blows in the press with his deputy during the party elections, said in any organisation, there is only one leader.
He said if certain people, owing to their own agenda, choose to take an opposing stand, they have the right to do so but that would only expose their agenda.
He admitted that all the bickerings (with Chua) stemmed from the "ministerial post".
Chua was the one who had kept harping on the ministerial post, he said.
Although by convention, Chua should hold a ministerial post as party No. 2, Ong seems to be holding the the sex video incident, which he deems an undeletable scandal, against him.
He also disclosed that before he took over the party helm, several complaints, including on the sex video incident, were lodged against Chua.
Ong, who was them the vice-president, said he only came to know about it after he took over from former party president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting.
He said the disciplinary cases (against Chua) are still there.
Asked if the party would look into these cases again, Ong said: "Not (whether to) reopen the files (or not), but (we) haven't wrap up the cases. We have to give the complainants an answer."
Pressed further what would the party do, he said he would leave it to the party disciplinary committee to decide.
In a departure from the norms in which the party No. 2 usually heads the disciplinary committee, Ong appointed veteran leader Datuk Ng Cheng Kiat to the post when he announced his party line-up on Nov 18.
Asked if he is not worried that a probe into the cases might result in another party infighting, Ong said the party cannot ignore public opinions or be devoid of basic ideas that conform to the social values framework.
MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat says Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek has asked to be recommended for a ministerial post after winning the party No. 2 post.
Disclosing this during an interview with Oriental Daily News two months after the party elections, Ong said Chua's request put him in a spot as the latter's victory in the election did not exonerate him over the sex video scandal.
"I don't want to judge values, I am talking about an objective fact. Under this situation, you tell me, what type of logic should I apply to handle it (Chua's request)?
"The case of the sex video scandal is still there. Under this circumstance, what kind of wisdom should I use to handle it?"
These questions underline Ong's feeling of helplessness.
On the seeming lack of cooperation between him and Chua, Ong, who exchanged verbal blows in the press with his deputy during the party elections, said in any organisation, there is only one leader.
He said if certain people, owing to their own agenda, choose to take an opposing stand, they have the right to do so but that would only expose their agenda.
He admitted that all the bickerings (with Chua) stemmed from the "ministerial post".
Chua was the one who had kept harping on the ministerial post, he said.
Although by convention, Chua should hold a ministerial post as party No. 2, Ong seems to be holding the the sex video incident, which he deems an undeletable scandal, against him.
He also disclosed that before he took over the party helm, several complaints, including on the sex video incident, were lodged against Chua.
Ong, who was them the vice-president, said he only came to know about it after he took over from former party president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting.
He said the disciplinary cases (against Chua) are still there.
Asked if the party would look into these cases again, Ong said: "Not (whether to) reopen the files (or not), but (we) haven't wrap up the cases. We have to give the complainants an answer."
Pressed further what would the party do, he said he would leave it to the party disciplinary committee to decide.
In a departure from the norms in which the party No. 2 usually heads the disciplinary committee, Ong appointed veteran leader Datuk Ng Cheng Kiat to the post when he announced his party line-up on Nov 18.
Asked if he is not worried that a probe into the cases might result in another party infighting, Ong said the party cannot ignore public opinions or be devoid of basic ideas that conform to the social values framework.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Tee Keat wants MCA president to be chosen by party members - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Oct 1, 2008
Direct election of the MCA president by party members - that is one of the proposals by presidential candidate Datuk Ong Tee Keat to reform the party.
In his manifesto with the theme “Agenda For Change”, Ong is proposing to allow members to vote directly for the party president, saying that it is crucial to enhance democracy of the party.
No Lone Ranger: Ong (fifth from left) with MCA leaders and supporters after launching his manifesto at Wisma MCA yesterday.
“By doing so, the party president will not only be more representative of the members’ aspirations, it will also be in keeping with participative democracy,” he said.
Currently, the party president is elected by 2,188 central delegates who, in turn, are elected at division level by party members.
Ong, who is an MCA vice-president, will be up against former vice-president Datuk Chua Jui Meng, who is contesting for the top post for the second time.
In the move to rebrand and reinvent the party, Ong also proposed that MCA state chairmen be elected by the state delegates to replace the existing system of appointment by the president.
He also proposed the selection of public office-holders at all levels of the Government, as well as candidates for general election, to be institutionalised.
“This will ensure that candidates are selected based on merit,’’ he said.
Among others, Ong also proposed to move forward with the Chinese community — to be prepared to voice the concerns of the people boldly and proactively, and initiate a new political paradigm so that inter-component party relations be premised on the basic foundations of equal partnership and mutual respect.
Also present at the launch of his manifesto at Wisma MCA yesterday were Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan, Datuk Wong Mook Leong, Datuk Kong Cho Ha, Datuk Chor Chee Heung, Datuk Liow Tiong Lai, Dr Wee Ka Siong, Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun, Dr Hou Kok Chung, Datuk Yap Pian Hon, Datuk Loke Yuen Yow, Datuk Dr Yau Chai Thiam and about 300 MCA members. The launch was also broadcast live on his blog, www.ongteekeat.net.
Asked whether Ong is still a Lone Ranger, an image he has projected for a long time, Ong said: “With so many supporters, do you think I am still a Lone Ranger?’’
During his press conference, Ong said he respected Chua as a party veteran, who is also more senior than him.
On the New Economic Policy, Ong said it has since been replaced by the National Development Policy and he regarded it as a non-issue now.
“Poverty eradication is also incorporated into government policies,’’ he said.
On Umno’s transition plan involving its party president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and deputy president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, Ong said he would respect the decision of the party.
“It will bring a certain impact, for sure,’’ he said.
Direct election of the MCA president by party members - that is one of the proposals by presidential candidate Datuk Ong Tee Keat to reform the party.
In his manifesto with the theme “Agenda For Change”, Ong is proposing to allow members to vote directly for the party president, saying that it is crucial to enhance democracy of the party.
No Lone Ranger: Ong (fifth from left) with MCA leaders and supporters after launching his manifesto at Wisma MCA yesterday.“By doing so, the party president will not only be more representative of the members’ aspirations, it will also be in keeping with participative democracy,” he said.
Currently, the party president is elected by 2,188 central delegates who, in turn, are elected at division level by party members.
Ong, who is an MCA vice-president, will be up against former vice-president Datuk Chua Jui Meng, who is contesting for the top post for the second time.
In the move to rebrand and reinvent the party, Ong also proposed that MCA state chairmen be elected by the state delegates to replace the existing system of appointment by the president.
He also proposed the selection of public office-holders at all levels of the Government, as well as candidates for general election, to be institutionalised.
“This will ensure that candidates are selected based on merit,’’ he said.
Among others, Ong also proposed to move forward with the Chinese community — to be prepared to voice the concerns of the people boldly and proactively, and initiate a new political paradigm so that inter-component party relations be premised on the basic foundations of equal partnership and mutual respect.
Also present at the launch of his manifesto at Wisma MCA yesterday were Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan, Datuk Wong Mook Leong, Datuk Kong Cho Ha, Datuk Chor Chee Heung, Datuk Liow Tiong Lai, Dr Wee Ka Siong, Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun, Dr Hou Kok Chung, Datuk Yap Pian Hon, Datuk Loke Yuen Yow, Datuk Dr Yau Chai Thiam and about 300 MCA members. The launch was also broadcast live on his blog, www.ongteekeat.net.
Asked whether Ong is still a Lone Ranger, an image he has projected for a long time, Ong said: “With so many supporters, do you think I am still a Lone Ranger?’’
During his press conference, Ong said he respected Chua as a party veteran, who is also more senior than him.
On the New Economic Policy, Ong said it has since been replaced by the National Development Policy and he regarded it as a non-issue now.
“Poverty eradication is also incorporated into government policies,’’ he said.
On Umno’s transition plan involving its party president Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and deputy president Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, Ong said he would respect the decision of the party.
“It will bring a certain impact, for sure,’’ he said.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
MCA: Release Kok, RPK from ISA - Star
The MCA has called for Seputeh MP Teresa Kok and Malaysia Today editor Raja Petra Kamaruddin to be released from their arrests under the Internal Security Act (ISA).
MCA seeks release of duo - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 17, 2008
The MCA Central Committee has called for Member of Parliament Teresa Kok (DAP – Seputeh) and blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin, who are detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA), to be released.
MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting said Kok and Raja Petra should be investigated under other laws and be charged in court if there was evidence.
United stand: Ka Ting (right) speaking at a press conference after chairing the MCA presidential meeting at Wisma MCA yesterday. With him are MCA deputy president Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy (second from right), and vice-presidents Datuk Fong Chan Onn and Tee Keat (left). — Bernama
“To prevent possible future abuse of the ISA, the central committee calls for a comprehensive review of the ISA so that it will apply strictly to cases relating to terrorism and subversive elements.
“There should also be a mechanism for checks and balances in the use of the ISA,” said Ka Ting after chairing a six-hour meeting at Wisma MCA yesterday.
He also said that the detention of reporter Tan Hoon Cheng for 18 hours under the ISA was totally uncalled for and the explanation given for her detention was unacceptable.
On party matters, Ka Ting said the MCA had acquired the balance of the 20.23% equity in Wisma MCA Sdn Bhd from Koperasi Jayadiri Malaysia Bhd for a total consideration of RM27.6mil.
The sale and purchase agreement was signed on Aug 15, 2008.
“This means that the party headquarters building is now wholly owned by the MCA,” said Ong.
He said the purchase price was based on the basis of “willing-buyer, willing-seller” after taking into account the current market value of Wisma MCA as valued by a professional valuer.
MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat hit out at Pakatan Rakyat for calling on Barisan Nasional MPs who opposed the ISA to emulate de facto Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim and resign.
He said the arrests were not sanctioned by the Cabinet and there was no reason why Ministers should resign.
Tee Keat also called on the authorities to expunge the ISA detention record of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng who was released on Saturday after being detained for 18 hours.
The MCA Central Committee has called for Member of Parliament Teresa Kok (DAP – Seputeh) and blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin, who are detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA), to be released.
MCA president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting said Kok and Raja Petra should be investigated under other laws and be charged in court if there was evidence.
United stand: Ka Ting (right) speaking at a press conference after chairing the MCA presidential meeting at Wisma MCA yesterday. With him are MCA deputy president Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy (second from right), and vice-presidents Datuk Fong Chan Onn and Tee Keat (left). — Bernama“To prevent possible future abuse of the ISA, the central committee calls for a comprehensive review of the ISA so that it will apply strictly to cases relating to terrorism and subversive elements.
“There should also be a mechanism for checks and balances in the use of the ISA,” said Ka Ting after chairing a six-hour meeting at Wisma MCA yesterday.
He also said that the detention of reporter Tan Hoon Cheng for 18 hours under the ISA was totally uncalled for and the explanation given for her detention was unacceptable.
On party matters, Ka Ting said the MCA had acquired the balance of the 20.23% equity in Wisma MCA Sdn Bhd from Koperasi Jayadiri Malaysia Bhd for a total consideration of RM27.6mil.
The sale and purchase agreement was signed on Aug 15, 2008.
“This means that the party headquarters building is now wholly owned by the MCA,” said Ong.
He said the purchase price was based on the basis of “willing-buyer, willing-seller” after taking into account the current market value of Wisma MCA as valued by a professional valuer.
MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat hit out at Pakatan Rakyat for calling on Barisan Nasional MPs who opposed the ISA to emulate de facto Law Minister Datuk Zaid Ibrahim and resign.
He said the arrests were not sanctioned by the Cabinet and there was no reason why Ministers should resign.
Tee Keat also called on the authorities to expunge the ISA detention record of Sin Chew Daily reporter Tan Hoon Cheng who was released on Saturday after being detained for 18 hours.
Soi Lek eyes MCA deputy president post - Malaysiakini
Sept 17, 08 11:08am
Former MCA vice-president Dr Chua Soi Lek today announced that he will be contesting the post of deputy president in the party elections on Oct 18.
The former health minister will now face MCA secretary-general Ong Ka Chuan for the number two post.
This contest is set to be Chua's bid for a political comeback after his resignation from all party and government post early this year over his involvement in a sex-tape scandal.
Previously it was speculated that he would go for the top post but it is learnt that Chua had wanted to avoid a three-cornered fight for the party presidency.
Another former vice-president and former health minister Chua Jui Meng has said that he would contest for the MCA No 1 post, challenging incumbent vice-president Ong Tee Keat.
Incumbent president Ong Ka Ting and deputy president Chan Kong Choy are not seeking a re-election.
Pundits are already describing the upcoming contest for the party leadership as a '2 Os vs 2 Cs' contest, with the Ongs - Tee Keat and Ka Chuan - battling the two Chuas - Jui Meng and Soi Lek.
Party leader Ka Ting has thrown his support behind Tee Keat and elder brother Ka Chuan - both of whom are cabinet ministers - while the two Chuas are seen to as outsiders.
However, as party veterans and former ministers, both Chuas are expected to give the Ongs a tough fight.
More news at: Malaysiakini
Former MCA vice-president Dr Chua Soi Lek today announced that he will be contesting the post of deputy president in the party elections on Oct 18.The former health minister will now face MCA secretary-general Ong Ka Chuan for the number two post.
This contest is set to be Chua's bid for a political comeback after his resignation from all party and government post early this year over his involvement in a sex-tape scandal.
Previously it was speculated that he would go for the top post but it is learnt that Chua had wanted to avoid a three-cornered fight for the party presidency.
Another former vice-president and former health minister Chua Jui Meng has said that he would contest for the MCA No 1 post, challenging incumbent vice-president Ong Tee Keat.
Incumbent president Ong Ka Ting and deputy president Chan Kong Choy are not seeking a re-election.
Pundits are already describing the upcoming contest for the party leadership as a '2 Os vs 2 Cs' contest, with the Ongs - Tee Keat and Ka Chuan - battling the two Chuas - Jui Meng and Soi Lek.
Party leader Ka Ting has thrown his support behind Tee Keat and elder brother Ka Chuan - both of whom are cabinet ministers - while the two Chuas are seen to as outsiders.
However, as party veterans and former ministers, both Chuas are expected to give the Ongs a tough fight.
More news at: Malaysiakini
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
It's game on for rivals in MCA polls - NST
Ling Hee Leong (left), son Son of former MCA president chairman Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, Ling Hee Leong (left) is up against Chenderiang assemblyman Dr Mah Han Soon for the Perak Youth chief post.KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 3, 2008
The stage is set for fierce battles in MCA Youth and Wanita wings on Saturday.
Battle lines between two camps -- dubbed whisky and puer tea -- were clear after nominations for the top Youth and Wanita chief posts in Perak, Johor and Selangor closed last night.
These are key states for MCA leaders aspiring for high posts at the national level as they contribute about 40 per cent of delegates to the general assembly.
Leading the charge for the "whisky" team is former MCA president Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik's eldest son, Hee Leong, who is facing Chenderiang assemblyman Dr Mah Han Soon for the Perak Youth chief post.
Ling junior earned his team the whisky moniker because of his "eat, drink and be merry" philosophy. Hee Leong is seen as part of the team that is backed by Dr Ling.
Up against the whisky team is the puer team, backed by outgoing president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting. The team earned the puer tea tag because one of its key members, MCA Youth secretary-general Dr Wee Ka Siong, is known as a no-nonsense traditionalist.
Wee and Hee Leong are expected to lock horns for the national Youth chief post come October.
However, the anticipated clash for the top Perak MCA Wanita post did not materialise. Senator Heng Seai Kie won the post uncontested when much-touted challenger, Gopeng division Wanita head Yew Sau Kam did not turn up to submit her nominations.
Both the Youth and Wanita incumbents Datuk Tan Chin Meng and Chew Poh Thai are not seeking re-election.
Nominations nationwide took place between 4pm and 8pm.
In Johor, there will be a straight fight for the posts of Youth and Wanita chief. State Youth secretary Haw Chin Teck will face off against MCA Gelang Patah Youth division chairman Teo Siew Hock, while incumbent Wanita chief Tan Ah Eng can expect a bruising battle with Lee Kim Moi.
Teo and Lee are said to be aligned to former vice-president Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek, who is widely known to enjoy a good rapport with Dr Ling.
In Selangor, there will be another huge battle between candidates aligned to party president Ong and vice-president Datuk Donald Lim Siang Chai, who is also close to Dr Ling.
The battle for the state Youth chief post will be between Lim's Petaling Jaya Selatan division Youth chief Sheah Kok Fah and Puchong division Youth chief Dr Kow Cheong Wei.
Incumbent state Wanita chief Datuk Paduka Chew Mei Fun (puer team) will face off against newly-elected Kelana Jaya division chief Ong Chong Swen. Ong's alliance is, however, unclear as she used to be a supporter of former MCA national Wanita deputy chief Datin Paduka Dr Tan Yee Kew, who recently joined Parti Keadilan Rakyat.
Three-cornered fights are on the cards for both the Kedah and Federal Territory Youth chief posts.
Kedah's Youth deputy chief Gan Hor Chye will face auditor Teh Gee Yau and state MCA committee member Ong Soon Boon, while Federal Territory's Youth secretary Chew Lian Keng will do battle with MCA Batu division Youth chief Ling Yoke Hooi and Cheras division Youth chief Dr Toh Kian Kock.
There is no contest for the Kedah Wanita chief post as incumbent Datuk Lim Bee Kau won uncontested, while the Federal Territory Wanita will see a tussle between Setiawangsa Wanita chief Chim Kim Moi and Bandar Tun Razak Wanita chief Chang Seok Sin for the top post.
In Negri Sembilan, former vice-chief Siow Koi Voon will face off against Lee Choon Fatt for the top state Youth chief post, as incumbent Fu Ming Chee is not seeking re-election.
State Wanita chief Datuk Lee Pit Chern created history when she held on to the post for the 25th year in a row.
In Penang, the state Youth chief post will see a four-cornered fight involving Taman Berapit branch youth chief Eng Hiap Boon, Bukit Mertajam division secretary Ong Tang Chuan, Bukit Bendera committee member Ng Siew Boon and Taman Kolam Air branch chief Lim Ching Yang.
Incumbent Ooi Chuan Aik has decided not to contest for the post.
As for the Wanita post, there will be a straight fight between Bayan Baru division Wanita chief Ooi Siew Kim and Nibong Tebal division chief Tan Cheng Liang.
Perlis, Pahang, Terengganu and Sabah did not see any contests for Youth and Wanita chief posts.
Tiong Lai to go for MCA VP post - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Sept 3, 2008
Health Minister and MCA Youth chief Datuk Liow Tiong Lai announced Wednesday he would contest one of the four posts of vice-president at the MCA elections on Oct 18.
Liow is the third MCA senior leader to announce the post he or she would contest at the party polls.
Over the last two weeks, Deputy Home Minister Datuk Chor Chee Hueng and Federal Territory MCA chairman and former Deputy Home Affairs Minister Datuk Tan Chai Ho announced that they too would contest the vice-presidency.
"I will contest the vice-president's post. This is after visiting and obtaining feedback from members and delegates nationwide. They agreed to support me for vice-president and continue my struggle at the national level.
"After obtaining the support from the grassroots members, I have decided to contest the post. I thank the members for having confidence in me," Liow told reporters before a dinner with Federal Territory MCA members at a restaurant, here.
Asked why he was not going for the post of deputy president or president, Liow said he was, by virtue of being the Youth chief, an appointed vice-president and members felt that he should continue to occupy the seat.
Liow had stated last month that he would relinquish his Youth chief post and go for a higher position in the party.
Apart from the three vice-president aspirants, MCA vice-president and Transport Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat has also announced that he would contest the party number one post in the coming elections.
Deputy Education Minister and MCA Youth secretary-general Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong and Wanita MCA deputy chief Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun have also announced that they would contest the MCA Youth and Wanita top posts, respectively, at the party polls.
Another leader, Deputy Finance Minister and party central committee member Datuk Kong Cho Ha, is expected to announce his decision to contest a post of vice-president in Ipoh on Thursday.
Meanwhile, former Perlis MCA chairman Datuk Loh Yoon Foo announced that he would contest a post in the party's central committee.
Loh, 61, a former Perlis state executive councillor and four-term state assemblyman for Titi Tinggi, said he was not interested in any higher post.
"My decision to offer myself is to support and help the new leaders to reshape and reinvent the party so that it would be acceptable again to the community," he said in statement to Bernama.
Loh was initially tipped to contest one of the four vice-president posts.
The MCA central committee, the highest decision-making body of the party, offers 25 positions for contest. - Bernama
Health Minister and MCA Youth chief Datuk Liow Tiong Lai announced Wednesday he would contest one of the four posts of vice-president at the MCA elections on Oct 18.Liow is the third MCA senior leader to announce the post he or she would contest at the party polls.
Over the last two weeks, Deputy Home Minister Datuk Chor Chee Hueng and Federal Territory MCA chairman and former Deputy Home Affairs Minister Datuk Tan Chai Ho announced that they too would contest the vice-presidency.
"I will contest the vice-president's post. This is after visiting and obtaining feedback from members and delegates nationwide. They agreed to support me for vice-president and continue my struggle at the national level.
"After obtaining the support from the grassroots members, I have decided to contest the post. I thank the members for having confidence in me," Liow told reporters before a dinner with Federal Territory MCA members at a restaurant, here.
Asked why he was not going for the post of deputy president or president, Liow said he was, by virtue of being the Youth chief, an appointed vice-president and members felt that he should continue to occupy the seat.
Liow had stated last month that he would relinquish his Youth chief post and go for a higher position in the party.
Apart from the three vice-president aspirants, MCA vice-president and Transport Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat has also announced that he would contest the party number one post in the coming elections.
Deputy Education Minister and MCA Youth secretary-general Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong and Wanita MCA deputy chief Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun have also announced that they would contest the MCA Youth and Wanita top posts, respectively, at the party polls.
Another leader, Deputy Finance Minister and party central committee member Datuk Kong Cho Ha, is expected to announce his decision to contest a post of vice-president in Ipoh on Thursday.
Meanwhile, former Perlis MCA chairman Datuk Loh Yoon Foo announced that he would contest a post in the party's central committee.
Loh, 61, a former Perlis state executive councillor and four-term state assemblyman for Titi Tinggi, said he was not interested in any higher post.
"My decision to offer myself is to support and help the new leaders to reshape and reinvent the party so that it would be acceptable again to the community," he said in statement to Bernama.
Loh was initially tipped to contest one of the four vice-president posts.
The MCA central committee, the highest decision-making body of the party, offers 25 positions for contest. - Bernama
Monday, September 1, 2008
Spectre of money politics, factions looms over MCA - NST
Aug 31, 2008 By ZUBAIDAH ABU BAKAR
Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan (left) and Datuk Ong Tee Keat.
The impending MCA party election is threatening to be riddled with money politics as well as factionalism, concerned observers tell ZUBAIDAH ABU BAKAR
IT is more than a noisy war of words between party leaders vying for senior party posts in the MCA. Money politics and strong-arm tactics have also reared their ugly heads in the run-up to the October party elections.
There are whispers that money is changing hands to the tune of tens of thousands of ringgit -- an unprecedented development in the Chinese-based party, if these allegations are true.
Incumbent leaders are also said to be making promises to finance activities at branch and divisional levels; a trend which is happening in Perak.
The grapevine has it that money has been given to division chiefs, sometimes under the pretext of financing party programmes and purchasing equipment such as computers for schools.
When the money comes in the form of cheques, reportedly, most of the time it is from one tobacco company.
In one case reported to the party's disciplinary committee, a division chief was alleged to have dished out RM90,000 from the division's coffers for distribution to seven branches and the division's Youth and Wanita wings.
"It is the division's money and there was no reason to do so, except to buy votes and secure positions for candidates at the central level," said a former committee member of the division.
Another division leader insisted that vote-buying at divisional level to secure support for central elections was not just hearsay. Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan, secretary-general of the party and a member of its disciplinary board, has received an official complaint on money politics in the Baling division in Kedah.
Several divisions are also believed to have lodged similar complaints with the disciplinary board.
In Johor, it was alleged that some central delegates would be paid RM2,000 each as an inducement to support certain candidates.
A leader from Gelang Patah division claimed at least 10 branches in the division were paid amounts ranging from RM20,000 to RM30,000.
Several grassroots leaders did not deny that money had also changed hands in other divisions in Johor, including Pulai, Kota Tinggi and Tanjong Piai.
Grassroots leaders in several states are also talking about intimidation through telephone calls, directing members to vote for certain leaders or risk facing "difficulties". Being ordinary members, those engaged in small businesses might be forced to comply, according to a party official, as they do not want trouble.
"They are ordinary members and do not want the daily running of their business and livelihood affected by intense politicking by leaders out to secure senior posts," he said on condition of anonymity.
Datuk Ong Tee Keat is so far alone in having declared his intention to contest the presidency. The housing and local government minister appears to be well favoured, but senior party leaders insist that it is Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek whom the grassroots want to lead the party.
Dr Chua still enjoys strong support in his home state of Johor as well as other southern states. His VCD sex scandal, however, remains an impediment, and he may settle for the deputy presidency.
He has not officially made known his intentions, but Dr Chua has been busy criss-crossing the country to meet MCA grassroots and engaging in an endless war of words with Tee Keat publicly and through their websites.
Observers say if the Tee Keat vs Dr Chua battle takes place on Oct 18, MCA will be led into another bruising experience of factional fighting for control of the party.
Some party leaders may have dismissed the "Team A", "Team B" battle taking shape, but in reality, no political party can run from seeing its members taking sides or forming teams when the top party post is being hotly contested.
From what is happening in MCA, it would be hard for anyone to accept that money and power do not reign in the run-up to the party elections.
The general perception is that party president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, who is not seeking re-election, and former senior party leaders such as former president Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik may have a hand in the party elections.
Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan (left) and Datuk Ong Tee Keat.The impending MCA party election is threatening to be riddled with money politics as well as factionalism, concerned observers tell ZUBAIDAH ABU BAKAR
IT is more than a noisy war of words between party leaders vying for senior party posts in the MCA. Money politics and strong-arm tactics have also reared their ugly heads in the run-up to the October party elections.
There are whispers that money is changing hands to the tune of tens of thousands of ringgit -- an unprecedented development in the Chinese-based party, if these allegations are true.
Incumbent leaders are also said to be making promises to finance activities at branch and divisional levels; a trend which is happening in Perak.
The grapevine has it that money has been given to division chiefs, sometimes under the pretext of financing party programmes and purchasing equipment such as computers for schools.
When the money comes in the form of cheques, reportedly, most of the time it is from one tobacco company.
In one case reported to the party's disciplinary committee, a division chief was alleged to have dished out RM90,000 from the division's coffers for distribution to seven branches and the division's Youth and Wanita wings.
"It is the division's money and there was no reason to do so, except to buy votes and secure positions for candidates at the central level," said a former committee member of the division.
Another division leader insisted that vote-buying at divisional level to secure support for central elections was not just hearsay. Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan, secretary-general of the party and a member of its disciplinary board, has received an official complaint on money politics in the Baling division in Kedah.
Several divisions are also believed to have lodged similar complaints with the disciplinary board.
In Johor, it was alleged that some central delegates would be paid RM2,000 each as an inducement to support certain candidates.
A leader from Gelang Patah division claimed at least 10 branches in the division were paid amounts ranging from RM20,000 to RM30,000.
Several grassroots leaders did not deny that money had also changed hands in other divisions in Johor, including Pulai, Kota Tinggi and Tanjong Piai.
Grassroots leaders in several states are also talking about intimidation through telephone calls, directing members to vote for certain leaders or risk facing "difficulties". Being ordinary members, those engaged in small businesses might be forced to comply, according to a party official, as they do not want trouble.
"They are ordinary members and do not want the daily running of their business and livelihood affected by intense politicking by leaders out to secure senior posts," he said on condition of anonymity.
Datuk Ong Tee Keat is so far alone in having declared his intention to contest the presidency. The housing and local government minister appears to be well favoured, but senior party leaders insist that it is Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek whom the grassroots want to lead the party.
Dr Chua still enjoys strong support in his home state of Johor as well as other southern states. His VCD sex scandal, however, remains an impediment, and he may settle for the deputy presidency.
He has not officially made known his intentions, but Dr Chua has been busy criss-crossing the country to meet MCA grassroots and engaging in an endless war of words with Tee Keat publicly and through their websites.
Observers say if the Tee Keat vs Dr Chua battle takes place on Oct 18, MCA will be led into another bruising experience of factional fighting for control of the party.
Some party leaders may have dismissed the "Team A", "Team B" battle taking shape, but in reality, no political party can run from seeing its members taking sides or forming teams when the top party post is being hotly contested.
From what is happening in MCA, it would be hard for anyone to accept that money and power do not reign in the run-up to the party elections.
The general perception is that party president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, who is not seeking re-election, and former senior party leaders such as former president Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik may have a hand in the party elections.
MCA leadership race begins - NST
KUALA LUMPUR, Sun Aug 31, 2008 By Alan Ting and S. Retna
MCA leaders look all set to make their respective bids for party national positions, kicking-off their campaign rounds and criss-crossing the nation to garner votes for the election slated for Oct 18.
And like the US presidential race, which had now reached a feverish pitch after both democracts and republicians picked their respective candidates, aspirants of the second largest Barisan Nasional component party are expected to follow a similar path, announcing the posts they would like to contest.
To date, only three candidates — MCA vice-president and Transport Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat, MCA Youth secretary-general Wee Ka Siong and Deputy Wanita chief Datuk Paduka Chew Mei Fun have announced their bid.
The others have decided to play the waiting game.
For the time being, Ong seems to be the lone candidate for the presidency of the party which consists of some one million members. Wee wants to be Youth chief and Chew intends to go for the Wanita head post.
The position of Youth chief fell vacant, following a decision by Datuk Liow Tiong Lai, who is also health minister, to go for the parent body position.
The Wanita chief post has also seen a vacancy with incumbent and Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen wanting to have a shot at one of MCA’s top three posts.
However, this calm setting is about to change in days to come, as indications are that after testing the ground, other leaders are expected to announce their intention on the positions they would like to contests at the MCA polls.
Wanting maximum media coverage, leaders like Home Affairs Deputy Minister Datuk Chor Chee Heung and Federal Territory MCA chief Datuk Tan Chai Ho are expected to announce their candidancy for the MCA vice presidency on Monday, knowing very well that newspapers would be hunting for stories to fill their pages during the three-day Merdeka holidays.
“I will announce my decision on Monday (Sept 1) in Alor Setar after the state liaison committee meeting,” Chor told Bernama when asked if he would go for the vice presidency.
Other MCA leaders like secretary-general Datuk Ong Ka Chuan and vice-president Datuk Donald Lim Siang Chai, who are likely to square-off for the MCA deputy presidency are expected to follow suit in the “very near future.” Ong, the younger brother of outgoing president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, had indirectly hinted that he would go for the party’s second post, after three MCA divisions in Perak announced that they supported him for the number two post two days ago.
While Lim has not made any comments on the post he wants to contest, ardent supporters of the former deputy tourism minister reveal that the “boss” would also go for the deputy presidency.
“I will announce my decision after the state MCA Youth and Wanita elections,” he said. The state MCA Youth and Wanita polls will be held simultaneously nationwide on Sept 6.
Another heavyweight, Dr Ng, is also expected to announce her bid in the next few days, possibly Monday, and talk is that the Iron Lady of MCA will fight for one of the four vice-president posts in the MCA. Sources also reveal that the outspoken Wanita leader will join the crowded veep race.
Liow, who is not defending his MCA Youth chief post, is expected to make his announcement on Wednesday. He is likely to be another vice-president candidate.
Other leaders likely to join in the fray are Higher Education Deputy Minister Dr Hou Kok Chung; former Penang exco Datuk Koay Kar Huah; former Perlis exco Loh Yoon Foo; former Negeri Sembilan exco Datuk Yeow Chai Tiam; and former Sabah MCA chief Datuk Chau Tet Onn.
However, the bulk of party leaders are expected to fight for the 25 MCA Central Committee (CC) positions, which would be up for grabs.
Several Chinese-based newspapers have put the CC aspirants to as high as 126, with some divisions having up to three members wanting to go for the CC post.
“These people have expressed their intentions, but this does not neccessarily mean that they will file their nomination papers. As in the past, at least half will pull out,” said a party insider.
This time around, the party polls will see several “big” names missing such as OngKa Ting, deputy president Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy, treasurer-general Tan Sri Lau Yin Pin and organising secretary and former deputy education minister Datuk Hon Choon Kim.
Others who will not be contesting are MCA publicity chief Datuk Fu Ah Kiow and former culture, arts and heritage deputy minister Datuk Wong Kam Hoong.
These leaders have either decided not to seek re-election or will retire from active politics.
However, the question frequently asked about this MCA polls remains unanswered. Who will take on Ong Tee Keat for the party’s number one post?
Party insiders reveal that the contender could be either MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn or former MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek. But these two leaders could form a pact and battle it out on who should go for the top post.
“However, until now, we are still in the dark. Dr Chua wants the top post,” a party insider close to the two leaders told Bernama.
Dr Chua seems to be a clear candidate, trading barbs with Ong Tee Keat in cybespace via blogs and this is viewed by many educated MCA delegates as a good avenue to get to know the two leaders.
“It is as good as their manifesto. For Dr Chua, it shows that he is preparing to contest,” an aide to a MCA minister said.
In his blog, Dr Chua projects himself as choice to revive the MCA which received a massive blow at the March 8 general election, while Ong portrays himself as a consistent leader “without any moral issue.” However, should Dr Chua, the former health minister, opt to go for the party’s top post, the issue of morality due to his previous sex scandal will definitely haunt him during the campaign.
While these two leaders seem to be locked in battle, former health minister and veteran MCA leader Datuk Chua Jui Meng is the dark horse as he too, is said to be “eyeing” the MCA top post.
The path is clear for Chua after he retained the Bakri (Johor) MCA division head post and “he is likely to announce his decision next week,” an aide to Chua told Bernama when asked to comment.
The next few weeks seem to be exciting times for the MCA.
Besides winning positions, party leaders know that a bigger battle awaits them. And that is to the hearts and minds of the Malaysian Chinese who deserted the party at the recent general election. — BERNAMA
MCA leaders look all set to make their respective bids for party national positions, kicking-off their campaign rounds and criss-crossing the nation to garner votes for the election slated for Oct 18.
And like the US presidential race, which had now reached a feverish pitch after both democracts and republicians picked their respective candidates, aspirants of the second largest Barisan Nasional component party are expected to follow a similar path, announcing the posts they would like to contest.
To date, only three candidates — MCA vice-president and Transport Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat, MCA Youth secretary-general Wee Ka Siong and Deputy Wanita chief Datuk Paduka Chew Mei Fun have announced their bid.
The others have decided to play the waiting game.
For the time being, Ong seems to be the lone candidate for the presidency of the party which consists of some one million members. Wee wants to be Youth chief and Chew intends to go for the Wanita head post.
The position of Youth chief fell vacant, following a decision by Datuk Liow Tiong Lai, who is also health minister, to go for the parent body position.
The Wanita chief post has also seen a vacancy with incumbent and Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen wanting to have a shot at one of MCA’s top three posts.
However, this calm setting is about to change in days to come, as indications are that after testing the ground, other leaders are expected to announce their intention on the positions they would like to contests at the MCA polls.
Wanting maximum media coverage, leaders like Home Affairs Deputy Minister Datuk Chor Chee Heung and Federal Territory MCA chief Datuk Tan Chai Ho are expected to announce their candidancy for the MCA vice presidency on Monday, knowing very well that newspapers would be hunting for stories to fill their pages during the three-day Merdeka holidays.
“I will announce my decision on Monday (Sept 1) in Alor Setar after the state liaison committee meeting,” Chor told Bernama when asked if he would go for the vice presidency.
Other MCA leaders like secretary-general Datuk Ong Ka Chuan and vice-president Datuk Donald Lim Siang Chai, who are likely to square-off for the MCA deputy presidency are expected to follow suit in the “very near future.” Ong, the younger brother of outgoing president Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting, had indirectly hinted that he would go for the party’s second post, after three MCA divisions in Perak announced that they supported him for the number two post two days ago.
While Lim has not made any comments on the post he wants to contest, ardent supporters of the former deputy tourism minister reveal that the “boss” would also go for the deputy presidency.
“I will announce my decision after the state MCA Youth and Wanita elections,” he said. The state MCA Youth and Wanita polls will be held simultaneously nationwide on Sept 6.
Another heavyweight, Dr Ng, is also expected to announce her bid in the next few days, possibly Monday, and talk is that the Iron Lady of MCA will fight for one of the four vice-president posts in the MCA. Sources also reveal that the outspoken Wanita leader will join the crowded veep race.
Liow, who is not defending his MCA Youth chief post, is expected to make his announcement on Wednesday. He is likely to be another vice-president candidate.
Other leaders likely to join in the fray are Higher Education Deputy Minister Dr Hou Kok Chung; former Penang exco Datuk Koay Kar Huah; former Perlis exco Loh Yoon Foo; former Negeri Sembilan exco Datuk Yeow Chai Tiam; and former Sabah MCA chief Datuk Chau Tet Onn.
However, the bulk of party leaders are expected to fight for the 25 MCA Central Committee (CC) positions, which would be up for grabs.
Several Chinese-based newspapers have put the CC aspirants to as high as 126, with some divisions having up to three members wanting to go for the CC post.
“These people have expressed their intentions, but this does not neccessarily mean that they will file their nomination papers. As in the past, at least half will pull out,” said a party insider.
This time around, the party polls will see several “big” names missing such as OngKa Ting, deputy president Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy, treasurer-general Tan Sri Lau Yin Pin and organising secretary and former deputy education minister Datuk Hon Choon Kim.
Others who will not be contesting are MCA publicity chief Datuk Fu Ah Kiow and former culture, arts and heritage deputy minister Datuk Wong Kam Hoong.
These leaders have either decided not to seek re-election or will retire from active politics.
However, the question frequently asked about this MCA polls remains unanswered. Who will take on Ong Tee Keat for the party’s number one post?
Party insiders reveal that the contender could be either MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Fong Chan Onn or former MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek. But these two leaders could form a pact and battle it out on who should go for the top post.
“However, until now, we are still in the dark. Dr Chua wants the top post,” a party insider close to the two leaders told Bernama.
Dr Chua seems to be a clear candidate, trading barbs with Ong Tee Keat in cybespace via blogs and this is viewed by many educated MCA delegates as a good avenue to get to know the two leaders.
“It is as good as their manifesto. For Dr Chua, it shows that he is preparing to contest,” an aide to a MCA minister said.
In his blog, Dr Chua projects himself as choice to revive the MCA which received a massive blow at the March 8 general election, while Ong portrays himself as a consistent leader “without any moral issue.” However, should Dr Chua, the former health minister, opt to go for the party’s top post, the issue of morality due to his previous sex scandal will definitely haunt him during the campaign.
While these two leaders seem to be locked in battle, former health minister and veteran MCA leader Datuk Chua Jui Meng is the dark horse as he too, is said to be “eyeing” the MCA top post.
The path is clear for Chua after he retained the Bakri (Johor) MCA division head post and “he is likely to announce his decision next week,” an aide to Chua told Bernama when asked to comment.
The next few weeks seem to be exciting times for the MCA.
Besides winning positions, party leaders know that a bigger battle awaits them. And that is to the hearts and minds of the Malaysian Chinese who deserted the party at the recent general election. — BERNAMA
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Sambutan Merdeka di Bukit Kledang, Menglembu Ipoh - Open University Malaysia
30 Ogos 2008 Posted by Richard Ng
Seawal jam 6.30 pagi tetamu khas kita iaitu Sdra Alex Chan Chin Chin, bekas ADUN Simpang Pulai telah tiba dengan penuh semangat. Kami berkumpul di kaki bukit Kledang ini sehingga jam 7.15pagi sebelum memulakan pendakian ke aras 3,000 kaki.
Kami berkumpul di kaki bukit sementara menantikan semua peserta tiba
Pelajar OUM Shah Alam, Dillon, juga turut serta dalam pendakian merdeka ini
Pasukan pendakian ini disertai oleh seramai 25 orang staf OUM Perak, Pelajar-pelajar OUM termasuk seorang pelajar OUM Shah Alam yang turut serta iaitu Sdra Dillon.
Sebahagian dari peserta yang telah berjaya sampai ke puncak bukit
Sister Lim, pelajar BNS OUM Perak dengan tongkatnya juga berjaya mendaki bukit ini hingga ke puncaknya. Syabas Sister Lim.
Setiap peserta telah diberikan satu bendera untuk dikibarkan semasa pendakian. Sepanjang pendakian kami turut mengedarkan bendera pada orang ramai yang ada di situ. Sepanjang perjalanan kami bertemu dengan ratusan pengunjung yang sentiasa mendaki bukit ini bagi tujuan kecerdasan diri.
Kelihatan di gambar kabus yang agak tebal di tamansebelum bermulanya sesi nyanyian lagu patriotik
Sdra Alex Chan (dua dari kiri) turut sama menyanyikan lagu patriotik
Pengarah PP Perak Richard Ng sedang menyampaikan cenderahati kepada tetamu khas kita iaitu Sdra Alex Chan
Video Ucapan Sdra Alex Chan
Video Laungan Merdeka
Cuaca pagi ini agak baik. Kabus yang tebal menyejukkan suasana pagi ini. Pada jam 8.20pagi kami pun tiba di sebuah taman yang terletak di puncak bukit ini. Kami pun berihat sebentar sementara menantikan semua peserta sampai.
Seawal jam 6.30 pagi tetamu khas kita iaitu Sdra Alex Chan Chin Chin, bekas ADUN Simpang Pulai telah tiba dengan penuh semangat. Kami berkumpul di kaki bukit Kledang ini sehingga jam 7.15pagi sebelum memulakan pendakian ke aras 3,000 kaki.
Kami berkumpul di kaki bukit sementara menantikan semua peserta tiba
Pelajar OUM Shah Alam, Dillon, juga turut serta dalam pendakian merdeka iniPasukan pendakian ini disertai oleh seramai 25 orang staf OUM Perak, Pelajar-pelajar OUM termasuk seorang pelajar OUM Shah Alam yang turut serta iaitu Sdra Dillon.
Sebahagian dari peserta yang telah berjaya sampai ke puncak bukit
Sister Lim, pelajar BNS OUM Perak dengan tongkatnya juga berjaya mendaki bukit ini hingga ke puncaknya. Syabas Sister Lim.Setiap peserta telah diberikan satu bendera untuk dikibarkan semasa pendakian. Sepanjang pendakian kami turut mengedarkan bendera pada orang ramai yang ada di situ. Sepanjang perjalanan kami bertemu dengan ratusan pengunjung yang sentiasa mendaki bukit ini bagi tujuan kecerdasan diri.
Kelihatan di gambar kabus yang agak tebal di tamansebelum bermulanya sesi nyanyian lagu patriotik
Sdra Alex Chan (dua dari kiri) turut sama menyanyikan lagu patriotik
Pengarah PP Perak Richard Ng sedang menyampaikan cenderahati kepada tetamu khas kita iaitu Sdra Alex ChanVideo Ucapan Sdra Alex Chan
Video Laungan Merdeka
Cuaca pagi ini agak baik. Kabus yang tebal menyejukkan suasana pagi ini. Pada jam 8.20pagi kami pun tiba di sebuah taman yang terletak di puncak bukit ini. Kami pun berihat sebentar sementara menantikan semua peserta sampai.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Tee Keat hits back at Soi Lek: I've always spoken freely - Sun
PETALING JAYA (Aug 28, 2008) By Ng Kee Seng
Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat has described as “an afterthought” former MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek’s dare to repeat what he said about the possibility of the country’s largest Chinese political party leaving the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition.
“Isn’t he a bit too late picking on me on this issue? It’s not the first time I have talked about this. I had spoken about this possibility soon after the March 8 general election. Don’t you have any other better issues for the (Chinese) community than to just trail me?” he asked.
Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat
Ong, who is the only central MCA leader to offer to run for the party’s presidency so far, said: “My record as a politician has always been consistent in what I say and do. I spoke my mind and it was reported by newspapers that had reporters present.
“What’s this baseless accusation that I am giving my comments only to the vernacular Chinese newspapers. I talk to everyone, just as I am doing now.”
Chinese dailies quoted the MCA vice-president as saying during his recent visit to Bentong: “We need to see some changes in BN, particularly Umno, in relation to coordination and collaboration with the various component parties in the coalition.
“In this respect, any unilateral dominance or sense of supremacy would only irk the other coalition partners. If there’s no change in the biggest coalition partner, namely Umno, MCA could always consider opting out (of BN) as one of the options.”
Speaking to theSun at a Bakti Nusa charity fund-raising dinner on Wednesday evening, the Transport Minister said his statement was not something new to those who frequently attended his talks.
“When I was interviewed some time ago in the non-Chinese media, I had said the same thing in English. I repeated the statement in my winding-up speech during a meet-the-MCA grassroots roadshow in the Federal Territory some two months ago.”
Ong said he would always make his statements in more than one language which was what he did in Bentong last week.
“The morally-tainted blogger who urged me to write to Umno to state my stand was virtually concerned that the reports in the Chinese dailies would not reach the Umno top brass. This is totally uncalled for as I always speak my mind freely and fearlessly, without having to seek prior approval from any party.
“Any one in his right frame of mind will know that any statement made in any language in Malaysia, would readily be translated into other languages.
“I have also been accused by the blogger of being merely reactive in nature, but that trait would actually be an apt description of the accuser himself.
“My record has clearly shown that I brought up the issue of mono-ethnic dominance or supremacy was proactively in my exclusive interview with Bernama (in English) some time back.”
Datuk Seri Ong Tee Keat has described as “an afterthought” former MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek’s dare to repeat what he said about the possibility of the country’s largest Chinese political party leaving the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition.
“Isn’t he a bit too late picking on me on this issue? It’s not the first time I have talked about this. I had spoken about this possibility soon after the March 8 general election. Don’t you have any other better issues for the (Chinese) community than to just trail me?” he asked.
Datuk Seri Ong Tee KeatOng, who is the only central MCA leader to offer to run for the party’s presidency so far, said: “My record as a politician has always been consistent in what I say and do. I spoke my mind and it was reported by newspapers that had reporters present.
“What’s this baseless accusation that I am giving my comments only to the vernacular Chinese newspapers. I talk to everyone, just as I am doing now.”
Chinese dailies quoted the MCA vice-president as saying during his recent visit to Bentong: “We need to see some changes in BN, particularly Umno, in relation to coordination and collaboration with the various component parties in the coalition.
“In this respect, any unilateral dominance or sense of supremacy would only irk the other coalition partners. If there’s no change in the biggest coalition partner, namely Umno, MCA could always consider opting out (of BN) as one of the options.”
Speaking to theSun at a Bakti Nusa charity fund-raising dinner on Wednesday evening, the Transport Minister said his statement was not something new to those who frequently attended his talks.
“When I was interviewed some time ago in the non-Chinese media, I had said the same thing in English. I repeated the statement in my winding-up speech during a meet-the-MCA grassroots roadshow in the Federal Territory some two months ago.”
Ong said he would always make his statements in more than one language which was what he did in Bentong last week.
“The morally-tainted blogger who urged me to write to Umno to state my stand was virtually concerned that the reports in the Chinese dailies would not reach the Umno top brass. This is totally uncalled for as I always speak my mind freely and fearlessly, without having to seek prior approval from any party.
“Any one in his right frame of mind will know that any statement made in any language in Malaysia, would readily be translated into other languages.
“I have also been accused by the blogger of being merely reactive in nature, but that trait would actually be an apt description of the accuser himself.
“My record has clearly shown that I brought up the issue of mono-ethnic dominance or supremacy was proactively in my exclusive interview with Bernama (in English) some time back.”
Barisan leaders’ talk of pullout from coalition worries Muhyiddin - Star
SINGAPORE: Aug 29, 2008
Some Barisan Nasional component party leaders' comments about the possibility of their parties leaving Barisan has Umno vice-president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin concerned.
“The is a new trend we have not seen in the past and this time around it is being done openly. I am concerned about that,” Muhyiddin told reporters, referring to remarks made by MCA and Gerakan leaders recently.
“Are these remarks brought up because of sheer disappointment? They have to explain,” he said, adding that any random survey would show that there was a mindset shift among the rakyat and not merely in Permatang Pauh.
Muhyiddin said Barisan should not underestimate the changes that are taking place.
“We can have a dialogue with the component parties but what else can we do? That is what we should be asking ourselves.
“The format in Umno and BN is not right and change should not just be in the form but also in the content,” Muhyiddin said.
“Umno also cannot stand alone. There are weaknesses within Umno but weaknesses also exist within the component parties,” he added.
Meanwhile, in Kuala Lumpur, Jerlun MP Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir said the outcome of the Permatang Pauh by-election was a wake-up call for Barisan, especially Umno, that much had to be done to regain the public's support.
Mukhriz said one of the major factors that impacted the by-election was the announcement by the country’s top two leaders that there would be a power transfer only in 2010.
“This means business as usual for another two years. For the rakyat, they feel it is too much to swallow,” he said.
“On the Umno side and Barisan, we also feel very exasperated because it is as if we have not started moving towards re-engineering and re-inventing Umno and Barisan.”
Some Barisan Nasional component party leaders' comments about the possibility of their parties leaving Barisan has Umno vice-president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin concerned.
“The is a new trend we have not seen in the past and this time around it is being done openly. I am concerned about that,” Muhyiddin told reporters, referring to remarks made by MCA and Gerakan leaders recently.
“Are these remarks brought up because of sheer disappointment? They have to explain,” he said, adding that any random survey would show that there was a mindset shift among the rakyat and not merely in Permatang Pauh.
Muhyiddin said Barisan should not underestimate the changes that are taking place.
“We can have a dialogue with the component parties but what else can we do? That is what we should be asking ourselves.
“The format in Umno and BN is not right and change should not just be in the form but also in the content,” Muhyiddin said.
“Umno also cannot stand alone. There are weaknesses within Umno but weaknesses also exist within the component parties,” he added.
Meanwhile, in Kuala Lumpur, Jerlun MP Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir said the outcome of the Permatang Pauh by-election was a wake-up call for Barisan, especially Umno, that much had to be done to regain the public's support.
Mukhriz said one of the major factors that impacted the by-election was the announcement by the country’s top two leaders that there would be a power transfer only in 2010.
“This means business as usual for another two years. For the rakyat, they feel it is too much to swallow,” he said.
“On the Umno side and Barisan, we also feel very exasperated because it is as if we have not started moving towards re-engineering and re-inventing Umno and Barisan.”
Ka Chuan hopes Barisan will learn from Permatang Pauh loss - Star
TANGKAK: Aug 29, 2008
Barisan Nasional should learn from the defeat in the Permatang Pauh by-election and adopt new strategies and ideas for future contests, said MCA secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan.
“We in the Barisan should be united and move as one team to ensure the component continues to be strong to face the next general election,” he said at SK Chi Ming 1 here on Wednesday.
“We in the MCA also hope the failure in capturing Permatang Pauh will not weaken our struggle to regain the people's confidence.”
Ong said PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim would not be able to form the next government on Sept 16 and that it was just a gimmick to woo voters.
He also urged Barisan leaders not to utter racial remarks during campaigns as it would hurt the people.
Ong, who is Housing and Local Government Minister, said the Government would replace housing developers who failed to complete projects.
He said there were about 43,000 houses that were not completed and the Government would appoint new developers for them.
He said that over the past 27 years more than 2.7 million homes had been built and occupied and the ministry would ensure that abandoned projects would be completed.
Barisan Nasional should learn from the defeat in the Permatang Pauh by-election and adopt new strategies and ideas for future contests, said MCA secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan.
“We in the Barisan should be united and move as one team to ensure the component continues to be strong to face the next general election,” he said at SK Chi Ming 1 here on Wednesday.
“We in the MCA also hope the failure in capturing Permatang Pauh will not weaken our struggle to regain the people's confidence.”
Ong said PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim would not be able to form the next government on Sept 16 and that it was just a gimmick to woo voters.
He also urged Barisan leaders not to utter racial remarks during campaigns as it would hurt the people.
Ong, who is Housing and Local Government Minister, said the Government would replace housing developers who failed to complete projects.
He said there were about 43,000 houses that were not completed and the Government would appoint new developers for them.
He said that over the past 27 years more than 2.7 million homes had been built and occupied and the ministry would ensure that abandoned projects would be completed.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Soi Lek dares Tee Keat to repeat threat to Umno - Sun
Aug 28, 2008
FORMER MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek has upped the ante in his media war with party presidential candidate, vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat, with a dare to Ong to repeat to Umno what he told the Chinese press lately -- that MCA may pull out of Barisan Nasional if Umno does not shed its "Ketuanan Melayu" policies.
Writing in his blog on Tuesday, Chua, without mentioning names, chided the only man (so far) who has offered to run for MCA presidency for pretending to speak out for the Chinese community.
"One would think that when the only man running for the post of MCA president says the party may have to pull out of the Barisan Nasional if Umno continues to champion the concept of 'Ketuanan Melayu', it should make the front page of all newspapers," he said.
"Instead, it was only reported in Sunday's Nanyang Siang Pau.
"The rest of the Chinese dailies offered up only today some muted reaction to the candidate's suggestion," Chua said, adding that Bahasa Malaysia and English newspapers have steered clear of reporting his statements for now.
He said some people have labelled him (Chua) a "political has-been", and tried to show the party's grassroots, the bulk of whom read the Chinese newspapers, that the endorsed candidate for the MCA presidency is indeed a man with the courage to speak out against Umno.
"But has he really spoken out and articulated the frustrations of the Chinese community?
"What is the reaction of Umno towards such a strong statement from an MCA vice-president and cabinet minister?" he asked.
One would never know, he said, "because it appears the statement so far is meant only for the eyes of the Chinese community".
He said MCA does not need someone who only pretends to speak out for the Chinese but a president who will speak out for all Malaysians and against all injustices.
"It is really insulting to members to think that in this age of multi-culturalism, anyone would choose to put on a show in the Chinese newspapers for the Chinese community," he said.
He dared the "endorsed candidate" to send a letter to Umno, repeating his statement that MCA may pull out of BN if Umno does not shed its Ketuanan Melayu policies.
"He should also officially issue statements that that will be MCA's policy should he become president," he said, adding that if he (Ong) does not write a letter to Umno or have a private chat with the prime minister about what he said, then he would be very rude in issuing a threat without letting the other party know.
If he does not do any of these things, then it would appear he was just hoping to get political support to attain his ambition without actually intending to walk the talk, he said.
Chua, who is regarded as a likely candidate to challenge Ong in the October party election, and Ong have traded barbs in the Chinese press and in cyber space over the issue of moral and conduct for politicians.
His latest tirade was given prominent space in the Chinese dailies yesterday.
FORMER MCA vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek has upped the ante in his media war with party presidential candidate, vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat, with a dare to Ong to repeat to Umno what he told the Chinese press lately -- that MCA may pull out of Barisan Nasional if Umno does not shed its "Ketuanan Melayu" policies.Writing in his blog on Tuesday, Chua, without mentioning names, chided the only man (so far) who has offered to run for MCA presidency for pretending to speak out for the Chinese community.
"One would think that when the only man running for the post of MCA president says the party may have to pull out of the Barisan Nasional if Umno continues to champion the concept of 'Ketuanan Melayu', it should make the front page of all newspapers," he said.
"Instead, it was only reported in Sunday's Nanyang Siang Pau.
"The rest of the Chinese dailies offered up only today some muted reaction to the candidate's suggestion," Chua said, adding that Bahasa Malaysia and English newspapers have steered clear of reporting his statements for now.He said some people have labelled him (Chua) a "political has-been", and tried to show the party's grassroots, the bulk of whom read the Chinese newspapers, that the endorsed candidate for the MCA presidency is indeed a man with the courage to speak out against Umno.
"But has he really spoken out and articulated the frustrations of the Chinese community?
"What is the reaction of Umno towards such a strong statement from an MCA vice-president and cabinet minister?" he asked.
One would never know, he said, "because it appears the statement so far is meant only for the eyes of the Chinese community".
He said MCA does not need someone who only pretends to speak out for the Chinese but a president who will speak out for all Malaysians and against all injustices.
"It is really insulting to members to think that in this age of multi-culturalism, anyone would choose to put on a show in the Chinese newspapers for the Chinese community," he said.
He dared the "endorsed candidate" to send a letter to Umno, repeating his statement that MCA may pull out of BN if Umno does not shed its Ketuanan Melayu policies.
"He should also officially issue statements that that will be MCA's policy should he become president," he said, adding that if he (Ong) does not write a letter to Umno or have a private chat with the prime minister about what he said, then he would be very rude in issuing a threat without letting the other party know.
If he does not do any of these things, then it would appear he was just hoping to get political support to attain his ambition without actually intending to walk the talk, he said.
Chua, who is regarded as a likely candidate to challenge Ong in the October party election, and Ong have traded barbs in the Chinese press and in cyber space over the issue of moral and conduct for politicians.
His latest tirade was given prominent space in the Chinese dailies yesterday.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Wee goes for top Youth post - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Aug 22, 2008 By JO TEH
MCA Youth secretary-general Dr Wee Ka Siong has officially announced that he will contest for the wing’s chief post in the October party polls.
He has also asked that those who want to contest for the same post to join him in a forum to debate on the future of the movement.
For education: Dr Wee (second from right) handing over the cheques to Federal Territory MCA Youth chief Hang Chin Pheng (centre) at the MCA headquarters here yesterday. With them were (from left) FT MCA Youth vice-presidents Ling Hee Keat and Dr Toh Kian Kok, and FT MCA Youth state secretary Chiew Lian Keng.
“We can have a debate on the movement’s ideology. It is high time that the movement is rebuild. We need to reach out to society and make MCA Youth relevant to the people.
“It is time to voice out and view the people’s problems without fear. This is vital after our poor performance in the March 8 polls,” he told reporters at the party headquarters yesterday.
Dr Wee said he had received support from the movement’s leaders as well as the grassroots to contest for the post.
“Since the general election, the political scenario has changed and I am here to make the changes.
“I have been receiving phone calls and SMSes from the movement’s youth members all across the country encouraging me to go for it, especially after incumbent Datuk Liow Tiong Lai announced he would not be seeking a re-election for the post,” he added.
Dr Wee said his campaign tagline would be “Speak Out, Make Changes, No Fear.”
He urged members to work together and fight for the party in order to reach greater heights.
After the press conference, Dr Wee, as Deputy Education Minister, presented 10 cheques for RM20,000 each to Federal Territory MCA Youth leaders and those from the youth movement to be allocated to SJKC schools in the Klang Valley.
MCA Youth secretary-general Dr Wee Ka Siong has officially announced that he will contest for the wing’s chief post in the October party polls.
He has also asked that those who want to contest for the same post to join him in a forum to debate on the future of the movement.
For education: Dr Wee (second from right) handing over the cheques to Federal Territory MCA Youth chief Hang Chin Pheng (centre) at the MCA headquarters here yesterday. With them were (from left) FT MCA Youth vice-presidents Ling Hee Keat and Dr Toh Kian Kok, and FT MCA Youth state secretary Chiew Lian Keng.“We can have a debate on the movement’s ideology. It is high time that the movement is rebuild. We need to reach out to society and make MCA Youth relevant to the people.
“It is time to voice out and view the people’s problems without fear. This is vital after our poor performance in the March 8 polls,” he told reporters at the party headquarters yesterday.
Dr Wee said he had received support from the movement’s leaders as well as the grassroots to contest for the post.
“Since the general election, the political scenario has changed and I am here to make the changes.
“I have been receiving phone calls and SMSes from the movement’s youth members all across the country encouraging me to go for it, especially after incumbent Datuk Liow Tiong Lai announced he would not be seeking a re-election for the post,” he added.
Dr Wee said his campaign tagline would be “Speak Out, Make Changes, No Fear.”
He urged members to work together and fight for the party in order to reach greater heights.
After the press conference, Dr Wee, as Deputy Education Minister, presented 10 cheques for RM20,000 each to Federal Territory MCA Youth leaders and those from the youth movement to be allocated to SJKC schools in the Klang Valley.
Monday, August 18, 2008
PAS sending out mixed messages, says Tee Keat - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Aug 18, 2008
The PAS Dewan Ulama’s call to ban gambling and limit sales of alcohol in Pakatan Rakyat-held states is confusing and an about-turn on the Islamist party's assurances before the March 8 election, MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat said.
“Why do a U-turn all of a sudden? It should inform the people about its change (of heart),” he said after launching the Tasik Perdana Family Day here yesterday.
He reminded PAS of its message – that it wanted to establish a welfare state in the run-up to the last general election.
No U-turns: Ong, during the launch of the Tasik Perdana Family Day Sunday.
“Or was it merely a political gimmick to fish for votes?” he asked.
Ong pointed out that Pakatan allies DAP and PKR also assured the people then that PAS had undergone a paradigm shift, from wanting to establish a theocratic Islamic state to a welfare-centric one.
On Thursday, PAS Dewan Ulama head Datuk Mohamed Daud called for a ban on gambling joints and to limit alcohol-selling outlets in non-Muslim areas in Pakatan-run states, saying Kelantan was an example of how the ban should be carried out.
However, at the party’s 54th muktamar on Friday, PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang said the party would not pursue the campaign to ban gambling and alcohol as it would affect much of Kuala Lumpur.
Ong also called on younger members in the MCA to play a bigger role in their constituencies by coming out with their own initiatives and resources to win the people’s support.
“Certain people are reluctant to put in their own efforts, but at the end of the day, when any new initiatives comes, they want to jump on the bandwagon,” he said.
The PAS Dewan Ulama’s call to ban gambling and limit sales of alcohol in Pakatan Rakyat-held states is confusing and an about-turn on the Islamist party's assurances before the March 8 election, MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat said.
“Why do a U-turn all of a sudden? It should inform the people about its change (of heart),” he said after launching the Tasik Perdana Family Day here yesterday.
He reminded PAS of its message – that it wanted to establish a welfare state in the run-up to the last general election.
No U-turns: Ong, during the launch of the Tasik Perdana Family Day Sunday.“Or was it merely a political gimmick to fish for votes?” he asked.
Ong pointed out that Pakatan allies DAP and PKR also assured the people then that PAS had undergone a paradigm shift, from wanting to establish a theocratic Islamic state to a welfare-centric one.
On Thursday, PAS Dewan Ulama head Datuk Mohamed Daud called for a ban on gambling joints and to limit alcohol-selling outlets in non-Muslim areas in Pakatan-run states, saying Kelantan was an example of how the ban should be carried out.
However, at the party’s 54th muktamar on Friday, PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang said the party would not pursue the campaign to ban gambling and alcohol as it would affect much of Kuala Lumpur.
Ong also called on younger members in the MCA to play a bigger role in their constituencies by coming out with their own initiatives and resources to win the people’s support.
“Certain people are reluctant to put in their own efforts, but at the end of the day, when any new initiatives comes, they want to jump on the bandwagon,” he said.
Dr Ng to decide on which top post to contest in a few weeks - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Aug 18, 2008
Wanita MCA chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen is giving herself a few more weeks before deciding which post to contest in the upcoming party elections.
“I haven’t made my decision yet. I need a few more weeks to 'feel the ground' because 80% of the central delegates are men. This is very historical. Never has a woman participated in high-level party elections,” she told reporters yesterday after attending the Merdeka Unity Run at Dataran Merdeka.
“I must be very honest. It is one thing to think I am capable but another thing for the grassroots to overcome the gender angle. Some have told people they have no problems with my capabilities but they have a little problem with my being a woman.”
Dr Ng announced in July that she would not be defending her Wanita post and would contest for one of the top three party posts – president, deputy president or vice-president.
Her deputy Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun had recently announced that she would go for the top post in Wanita if there was a vacancy.
Dr Ng said yesterday Chew had her blessings to contest for the post, adding that Chew was among many women who had been groomed to take over the leadership in the women's wing.
She added that the party elections should be carried out in a healthy, friendly and gracious manner.
However, she said her focus for now would be on the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry, where she is minister, and the Permatang Pauh by-election.
On Budget 2009, she said her ministry was trying to ensure that the poor and the vulnerable would be included in the social security net.
Wanita MCA chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen is giving herself a few more weeks before deciding which post to contest in the upcoming party elections.
“I haven’t made my decision yet. I need a few more weeks to 'feel the ground' because 80% of the central delegates are men. This is very historical. Never has a woman participated in high-level party elections,” she told reporters yesterday after attending the Merdeka Unity Run at Dataran Merdeka.
“I must be very honest. It is one thing to think I am capable but another thing for the grassroots to overcome the gender angle. Some have told people they have no problems with my capabilities but they have a little problem with my being a woman.”
Dr Ng announced in July that she would not be defending her Wanita post and would contest for one of the top three party posts – president, deputy president or vice-president.
Her deputy Datin Paduka Chew Mei Fun had recently announced that she would go for the top post in Wanita if there was a vacancy.
Dr Ng said yesterday Chew had her blessings to contest for the post, adding that Chew was among many women who had been groomed to take over the leadership in the women's wing.
She added that the party elections should be carried out in a healthy, friendly and gracious manner.
However, she said her focus for now would be on the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry, where she is minister, and the Permatang Pauh by-election.
On Budget 2009, she said her ministry was trying to ensure that the poor and the vulnerable would be included in the social security net.
Ka Chuan: Win to serve, not for glory - Star
JOHOR BARU: Aug 18, 2008
Candidates competing for the top MCA positions should remind themselves that the posts come with great responsibility, not glory.
MCA secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan said that those who won the posts owe their responsibilities to the community and the country.
“I hope the elections will go smoothly and that the birth of new leaders will not lead to a split in the party,” he said.
Ong, who is also the MCA election committee chief, said he hoped all candidates would focus on their plans for the party’s growth and benefit.
Concerned gesture: Ong and Tebrau MP Teng Boon Soon (left) chatting with Lee Wah, 88, a resident of the Tebrau Old Folks Home during a visit Sunday.
He reminded candidates not to say or do anything that would tarnish the image of the party and told members not to be involved in money politics.
“Candidates should be continuing the work of their predecessors, instead of uprooting previous policies,” he said during his visit to several new villages in Tebrau and Pasir Gudang here yesterday.
Ong pointed out that the party election was also different from the general election where candidates had to campaign to get votes from tens of thousands of people.
“We are contesting within a party and the candidates will only have to present their plans to 2,118 central delegates.”
Ong also said that he would not comment on any party election-related issues, as he was the election committee chief.
“If I decide to compete for the posts, I will have to resign as the election committee chief first.
“But now, I want to ensure that the election process is smooth.”
In line with the Merdeka celebration, Ong, who is also the Housing and Local Government Minister, distributed flags to some 20 associations in the Johor Jaya constituency.
Candidates competing for the top MCA positions should remind themselves that the posts come with great responsibility, not glory.
MCA secretary-general Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan said that those who won the posts owe their responsibilities to the community and the country.
“I hope the elections will go smoothly and that the birth of new leaders will not lead to a split in the party,” he said.
Ong, who is also the MCA election committee chief, said he hoped all candidates would focus on their plans for the party’s growth and benefit.
Concerned gesture: Ong and Tebrau MP Teng Boon Soon (left) chatting with Lee Wah, 88, a resident of the Tebrau Old Folks Home during a visit Sunday.He reminded candidates not to say or do anything that would tarnish the image of the party and told members not to be involved in money politics.
“Candidates should be continuing the work of their predecessors, instead of uprooting previous policies,” he said during his visit to several new villages in Tebrau and Pasir Gudang here yesterday.
Ong pointed out that the party election was also different from the general election where candidates had to campaign to get votes from tens of thousands of people.
“We are contesting within a party and the candidates will only have to present their plans to 2,118 central delegates.”
Ong also said that he would not comment on any party election-related issues, as he was the election committee chief.
“If I decide to compete for the posts, I will have to resign as the election committee chief first.
“But now, I want to ensure that the election process is smooth.”
In line with the Merdeka celebration, Ong, who is also the Housing and Local Government Minister, distributed flags to some 20 associations in the Johor Jaya constituency.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Arif Shah is BN candidate for Permatang Pauh - Sun
Aug 13, 2008 By Himanshu Bhatt
Umno Seberang Jaya assemblyman Datuk Arif Shah Omar Shah is the Barisan Nasional (BN) leadership’s choice to take on PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the Permatang Pauh parliamentary by-election on Aug 26.
BN deputy chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak made the announcement tonight, setting off cries of jubilation among Arif Shah’s supporters at the Sunway Carnival Convention Centre here.
Arif Shah, who speaks fluent Mandarin and Hokkien, broke down in tears as soon as the announcement was made, and in an emotionally charge atmosphere went on to embrace Najib and other BN leaders who were present.
He then took the mike, and speaking in both Malay and Mandarin, promised to give Anwar a bruising fight.
His passionate words in eloquent Mandarin, particularly, brought the multi-racial crowd of BN supporters from Umno, MCA, Gerakan, MIC and PPP, roaring and on their feet.
"We in the BN are fighters for all races," he said. "And we do not want Permatang Pauh to be ruled by the opposition anymore."
"We don’t have to be nervous about how powerful Anwar Ibrahim is. We will fight him and bring Permatang Pauh back to the Barisan Nasional," said Arif whose Seberang Jaya state constituency is one of the three state constituencies in Permatang Pauh.
Incidentally, Arif Shah was the Umno Permatang Pauh youth chief in the 90s when Anwar was the division chief and the party’s state chairman.
Immensely popular in his state constituency which he has held since 2004, his Seberang Jaya service centre is known to be the first of its kind with ISO certification.
The announcement by Najib before a crowd of 2,000 BN supporters gathered at the launch of the BN machinery for the by-election, ended almost two weeks of jostling among Umno members for their preferred candidates.
Najib said the process of choosing had been quite a dilemma, stressing that it had been made based on the best possible considerations.
Arif then also hugged his rival for the nomination, Umno Permatang Pauh division chief Datuk Abdul Jalil Abdul Majid.
In the last general elections, the other two state constituencies of Permatang Pasir and Penanti were won by PAS and PKR respectively, and only incumbent Arif Shah managed to defend his seat in Seberang Jaya.
It is understood that the Umno leadership felt that the BN candidate for Permatang Pauh has to be a local with powerful grassroots appeal, especially among the rural folk, if there is to be any chance of giving Anwar a run for his money.
Also present were state BN chairman Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, BN Youth chief Datuk Seri Hishamudin Tun Hussein, BN secretary general Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, Penang MCA chairman Datuk Liow Tiong Lai, Gerakan secretary general Datuk Seri Chia Kwang Chye, Penang MIC chief Datuk Dr K Rajapathy and Penang PPP chief Datuk Dr Loga Bala Mohan.
Umno Seberang Jaya assemblyman Datuk Arif Shah Omar Shah is the Barisan Nasional (BN) leadership’s choice to take on PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the Permatang Pauh parliamentary by-election on Aug 26.BN deputy chairman Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak made the announcement tonight, setting off cries of jubilation among Arif Shah’s supporters at the Sunway Carnival Convention Centre here.
Arif Shah, who speaks fluent Mandarin and Hokkien, broke down in tears as soon as the announcement was made, and in an emotionally charge atmosphere went on to embrace Najib and other BN leaders who were present.
He then took the mike, and speaking in both Malay and Mandarin, promised to give Anwar a bruising fight.
His passionate words in eloquent Mandarin, particularly, brought the multi-racial crowd of BN supporters from Umno, MCA, Gerakan, MIC and PPP, roaring and on their feet.
"We in the BN are fighters for all races," he said. "And we do not want Permatang Pauh to be ruled by the opposition anymore."
"We don’t have to be nervous about how powerful Anwar Ibrahim is. We will fight him and bring Permatang Pauh back to the Barisan Nasional," said Arif whose Seberang Jaya state constituency is one of the three state constituencies in Permatang Pauh.
Incidentally, Arif Shah was the Umno Permatang Pauh youth chief in the 90s when Anwar was the division chief and the party’s state chairman.
Immensely popular in his state constituency which he has held since 2004, his Seberang Jaya service centre is known to be the first of its kind with ISO certification.
The announcement by Najib before a crowd of 2,000 BN supporters gathered at the launch of the BN machinery for the by-election, ended almost two weeks of jostling among Umno members for their preferred candidates.
Najib said the process of choosing had been quite a dilemma, stressing that it had been made based on the best possible considerations.
Arif then also hugged his rival for the nomination, Umno Permatang Pauh division chief Datuk Abdul Jalil Abdul Majid.
In the last general elections, the other two state constituencies of Permatang Pasir and Penanti were won by PAS and PKR respectively, and only incumbent Arif Shah managed to defend his seat in Seberang Jaya.
It is understood that the Umno leadership felt that the BN candidate for Permatang Pauh has to be a local with powerful grassroots appeal, especially among the rural folk, if there is to be any chance of giving Anwar a run for his money.
Also present were state BN chairman Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon, BN Youth chief Datuk Seri Hishamudin Tun Hussein, BN secretary general Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor, Penang MCA chairman Datuk Liow Tiong Lai, Gerakan secretary general Datuk Seri Chia Kwang Chye, Penang MIC chief Datuk Dr K Rajapathy and Penang PPP chief Datuk Dr Loga Bala Mohan.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Uphill battle in the care of stray cats and dogs - Star
Uphill battle in the care of stray cats and dogs
Aug 13, 2008 By CHRISTINA KOH
THE Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA), Ipoh branch spends RM10,000 per month for its neutering and spaying campaign for stray cats and dogs.
Society president Dr Goh Hue Lang said they hoped to work more closely with the city council in tackling the problem with strays.
“If the city council could sponsor even RM2,000 a month, it would allow us to free up more time for other meaningful projects,” she said at the society’s annual charity dinner in Ipoh on Sunday.
Dr Goh added: “We shelter about 200 dogs and cats, and every single thing the society does in the battle to prevent animals from suffering costs money. Our resources are limited.”
Jeya (left) hitting the gong to launch the dinner. With her are Dr Goh (right) and other ISPCA committee members.
She said the society would give more talks to schoolchildren about caring responsibly for their pets and hold dog parades throughout Perak within two years.
She said that according to research from the United Kingdom’s Royal SPCA, a single cat could lead to the propagation of 20,000 offsprings in four years.
A dog, however, could propagate offsprings that would eventually produce altogether 67,000 in six years, she said.
“It’s terrible. The public needs to know more about neutering and spaying. Otherwise, a stray wouldn’t be able to control itself and it would continue to reproduce,” she said.
Earlier, Jeya Jeyaratnam, daughter of the late Puan Sri Dr J. Rajamalar who had been a faithful contributor to ISPCA, launched the dinner by hitting a gong.
Dancers from City Ballet performed an adaptation of the popular London Broadway musical CATS during the dinner which managed to raise RM80,000 for the society’s activities.
Chenderiang assemblyman Dr Mah Hang Soon, who represented Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan, hoped that the state would allocate funds to non-governmental organisations like the ISPCA each year.
“I also hope the society would be able to get its TOL (temporary occupational licence) for another 30 or 60 years,” he said before donating RM10,000 on behalf of Ong.
Visitors can drop by the ISPCA centre at Lot 38642, 4th mile, Jalan Gopeng, 31300, Ipoh, Perak. For details, call Doreen at 016-5608905.
Aug 13, 2008 By CHRISTINA KOH
THE Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA), Ipoh branch spends RM10,000 per month for its neutering and spaying campaign for stray cats and dogs.
Society president Dr Goh Hue Lang said they hoped to work more closely with the city council in tackling the problem with strays.
“If the city council could sponsor even RM2,000 a month, it would allow us to free up more time for other meaningful projects,” she said at the society’s annual charity dinner in Ipoh on Sunday.
Dr Goh added: “We shelter about 200 dogs and cats, and every single thing the society does in the battle to prevent animals from suffering costs money. Our resources are limited.”
Jeya (left) hitting the gong to launch the dinner. With her are Dr Goh (right) and other ISPCA committee members.She said the society would give more talks to schoolchildren about caring responsibly for their pets and hold dog parades throughout Perak within two years.
She said that according to research from the United Kingdom’s Royal SPCA, a single cat could lead to the propagation of 20,000 offsprings in four years.
A dog, however, could propagate offsprings that would eventually produce altogether 67,000 in six years, she said.
“It’s terrible. The public needs to know more about neutering and spaying. Otherwise, a stray wouldn’t be able to control itself and it would continue to reproduce,” she said.
Earlier, Jeya Jeyaratnam, daughter of the late Puan Sri Dr J. Rajamalar who had been a faithful contributor to ISPCA, launched the dinner by hitting a gong.
Dancers from City Ballet performed an adaptation of the popular London Broadway musical CATS during the dinner which managed to raise RM80,000 for the society’s activities.
Chenderiang assemblyman Dr Mah Hang Soon, who represented Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan, hoped that the state would allocate funds to non-governmental organisations like the ISPCA each year.
“I also hope the society would be able to get its TOL (temporary occupational licence) for another 30 or 60 years,” he said before donating RM10,000 on behalf of Ong.
Visitors can drop by the ISPCA centre at Lot 38642, 4th mile, Jalan Gopeng, 31300, Ipoh, Perak. For details, call Doreen at 016-5608905.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Ling and Mah eyeing same post - Star
IPOH: Contest for the Perak MCA Youth chief's post in September will likely be between MCA Youth deputy chief Datuk Ling Hee Leong and Chenderiang assemblyman Dr Mah Hang Soon.
Ling, who is Perak Youth vice-chairman, said his decision to contest the post was to help consolidate the wing.
“We need to be more hip to attract the young. We must also be IT-savvy with the young crowd,” said the 39-year-old Ling, who is also Kuala Kangsar MCA Youth chief, yesterday.
Dr Mah, who is Perak Youth committee member, said he would consider contesting.
The Perak Youth chief post is vacant as incumbent Datuk Tan Chin Meng will be overage.
Ling, who is Perak Youth vice-chairman, said his decision to contest the post was to help consolidate the wing.
“We need to be more hip to attract the young. We must also be IT-savvy with the young crowd,” said the 39-year-old Ling, who is also Kuala Kangsar MCA Youth chief, yesterday.
Dr Mah, who is Perak Youth committee member, said he would consider contesting.
The Perak Youth chief post is vacant as incumbent Datuk Tan Chin Meng will be overage.
Ng: Don’t use morality to run down others - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Aug 11, 2008
Morality should not be used as a weapon to run down potential candidates, including former vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek, in the upcoming MCA elections.
Wanita MCA chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen said that Dr Chua should be given another chance if he were to contest as he had privately and publicly apologised for his past behaviour.
Dr Chua, who is the former Health Minister, had resigned from all posts after he admitted to having been in a sex video. He has been tipped to make a comeback and contest for the presidency.
“This person had made a moral mistake and apologised to the family and the world. If his wife and family can forgive him, who are we not to? Let the delegates decide who they want.
“The upcoming party elections should not be filled with accusations,” she told reporters here yesterday.
Dr Ng was commenting on media reports yesterday that quoted MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat as saying that “tainted” public figures could not be “cleansed” simply by owning up to their wrongdoings but must instead bear the consequences.
Dr Ng said Dr Chua was brave enough to admit his mistake and deserved to be forgiven especially by the party as he had paid the price for what he had done by losing his minister’s post.
“I do not dare decide or judge someone else’s morality except my own. Can you give me a leader that scores a 100% mark in morality?” she asked.
Dr Ng said she had not decided whether to contest the presidency or another post as she had to first study the MCA men’s mindset.
“I am confident of my capabilities but I have to study the men and see if they are ready for a woman leader as 80% of the central delegates are men,” she said, adding that Kelantan MCA had backed her for the top post.
Morality should not be used as a weapon to run down potential candidates, including former vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek, in the upcoming MCA elections.
Wanita MCA chief Datuk Dr Ng Yen Yen said that Dr Chua should be given another chance if he were to contest as he had privately and publicly apologised for his past behaviour.Dr Chua, who is the former Health Minister, had resigned from all posts after he admitted to having been in a sex video. He has been tipped to make a comeback and contest for the presidency.
“This person had made a moral mistake and apologised to the family and the world. If his wife and family can forgive him, who are we not to? Let the delegates decide who they want.
“The upcoming party elections should not be filled with accusations,” she told reporters here yesterday.
Dr Ng was commenting on media reports yesterday that quoted MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat as saying that “tainted” public figures could not be “cleansed” simply by owning up to their wrongdoings but must instead bear the consequences.
Dr Ng said Dr Chua was brave enough to admit his mistake and deserved to be forgiven especially by the party as he had paid the price for what he had done by losing his minister’s post.
“I do not dare decide or judge someone else’s morality except my own. Can you give me a leader that scores a 100% mark in morality?” she asked.
Dr Ng said she had not decided whether to contest the presidency or another post as she had to first study the MCA men’s mindset.
“I am confident of my capabilities but I have to study the men and see if they are ready for a woman leader as 80% of the central delegates are men,” she said, adding that Kelantan MCA had backed her for the top post.
Wee: Scandal did not affect my life - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Aug 11, 2008
MCA Youth secretary-general Dr Wee Ka Siong said the front-page report of an English daily that alleged he was involved in a sex scandal had not affected his personal life.
“In fact, my wife laughed about it and told me to lodge a police report when she saw the front page news.”
Asked if he needed to do damage control to clear his reputation, he said his conscience was clear.
Young broadcasters: Wee chatting with pupils after presenting them their certificates for completing their broadcasting courses in The Voice Academy.
He said although the report did not have any direct impact on his personal life or career, he received a lot of “attention” wherever he went.
“People keep asking me, what happened? Why you?” Dr Wee, who is also the Deputy Education Minister, said at a press conference after presenting certificates to students of The Voice Academy at Wisma MCA yesterday.
On Saturday, Dr Wee said his lawyer had sent a letter to the daily on Friday and demanded a front-page apology or be prepared to face legal action.
MCA Youth secretary-general Dr Wee Ka Siong said the front-page report of an English daily that alleged he was involved in a sex scandal had not affected his personal life.
“In fact, my wife laughed about it and told me to lodge a police report when she saw the front page news.”
Asked if he needed to do damage control to clear his reputation, he said his conscience was clear.
Young broadcasters: Wee chatting with pupils after presenting them their certificates for completing their broadcasting courses in The Voice Academy.He said although the report did not have any direct impact on his personal life or career, he received a lot of “attention” wherever he went.
“People keep asking me, what happened? Why you?” Dr Wee, who is also the Deputy Education Minister, said at a press conference after presenting certificates to students of The Voice Academy at Wisma MCA yesterday.
On Saturday, Dr Wee said his lawyer had sent a letter to the daily on Friday and demanded a front-page apology or be prepared to face legal action.
Liow: PKR leader must answer to Permatang Pauh voters - Star
BUTTERWORTH: Aug 11, 2008
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim should answer to Permatang Pauh voters for toll collection at the Butterworth Outer Ring Road’s Sungai Nyior stretch.
MCA Youth chief Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said Anwar had insisted that the toll plaza be located there when he was a minister.
“We still hear people, especially the Chinese community, calling for toll collection at Sungai Nyior to be abolished,” he said after closing the Permatang Pauh MCA by-election training camp at Safira Country Club here yesterday.
“But they all know that Anwar was the one who created the unhappiness among them.”
Gearing up: Liow (centre) briefing Penang MCA members during an election training camp in Seberang Jaya, Penang, yesterday. With him are Penang MCA deputy chairman Lau Chiek Tuan (second left), Penang MCA organising secretary (third left) Tan Cheng Liang and Penang MCA treasurer Datuk Ma Kok Ben (sixth from left).
Liow, who is also state MCA chairman, said the MCA would convey the people’s wishes to the Federal Government.
He said the party would hold discussions with Works Minister Datuk Mohd Zin Mohamad on abolishing toll collection there.
Liow described the Permatang Pauh by-election as an uphill task for the MCA.
“But we have to work hard to remind Chinese voters that we still work untiringly for them, although they had voted for PKR in the last three terms,” he said.
On Anwar’s claim that he would not attack the Barisan Nasional candidate during polls campaigning, Liow said Barisan would similarly focus on its performance record.
“This is a battle between Barisan and PKR. So we will go on a party-to-party approach.
“We will highlight the direction and policies of Barisan that contributed to the stability and progress of the nation.”
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim should answer to Permatang Pauh voters for toll collection at the Butterworth Outer Ring Road’s Sungai Nyior stretch.
MCA Youth chief Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said Anwar had insisted that the toll plaza be located there when he was a minister.
“We still hear people, especially the Chinese community, calling for toll collection at Sungai Nyior to be abolished,” he said after closing the Permatang Pauh MCA by-election training camp at Safira Country Club here yesterday.
“But they all know that Anwar was the one who created the unhappiness among them.”
Gearing up: Liow (centre) briefing Penang MCA members during an election training camp in Seberang Jaya, Penang, yesterday. With him are Penang MCA deputy chairman Lau Chiek Tuan (second left), Penang MCA organising secretary (third left) Tan Cheng Liang and Penang MCA treasurer Datuk Ma Kok Ben (sixth from left).Liow, who is also state MCA chairman, said the MCA would convey the people’s wishes to the Federal Government.
He said the party would hold discussions with Works Minister Datuk Mohd Zin Mohamad on abolishing toll collection there.
Liow described the Permatang Pauh by-election as an uphill task for the MCA.
“But we have to work hard to remind Chinese voters that we still work untiringly for them, although they had voted for PKR in the last three terms,” he said.
On Anwar’s claim that he would not attack the Barisan Nasional candidate during polls campaigning, Liow said Barisan would similarly focus on its performance record.
“This is a battle between Barisan and PKR. So we will go on a party-to-party approach.
“We will highlight the direction and policies of Barisan that contributed to the stability and progress of the nation.”
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Don't cause anxiety, Liow tells Anwar - NST
KUALA LUMPUR: Aug 9, 2008
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim should concentrate on proving the vitality of the Pakatan Rakyat governments in the five states instead of creating anxiety among Malaysians, said MCA Youth chief Datuk Liow Tiong Lai.
He said Anwar should respect the decision made by the rakyat at the 12th general election of giving five states -- Selangor, Perak, Kedah, Kelantan and Penang -- to the opposition parties and the federal government to Barisan Nasional.
"Prove yourself and let people decide when they go to the polls in five years whether they want the BN or Pakatan Rakyat," said Liow.
He pointed out that the Parti Keadilan Rakyat de facto leader's main intention was to be prime minister.
"It is his personal wish and not for the benefit of the rakyat that he is contesting the by-election in Permatang Pauh," he said, adding that Anwar should respect the Constitution and the country's democratic process.
Liow, who will head the MCA by-election machinery in Permatang Pauh with more than 3,000 MCA members and leaders going to the ground to campaign, said:
"I will let the people of Permatang Pauh know about Anwar's intentions in contesting the seat. The people should not be swayed by his play-acting or sandiwara.
"Don't use tricks and tactics to cause instability and anxiety. It is not good for the economy and political stability.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim should concentrate on proving the vitality of the Pakatan Rakyat governments in the five states instead of creating anxiety among Malaysians, said MCA Youth chief Datuk Liow Tiong Lai.He said Anwar should respect the decision made by the rakyat at the 12th general election of giving five states -- Selangor, Perak, Kedah, Kelantan and Penang -- to the opposition parties and the federal government to Barisan Nasional.
"Prove yourself and let people decide when they go to the polls in five years whether they want the BN or Pakatan Rakyat," said Liow.
He pointed out that the Parti Keadilan Rakyat de facto leader's main intention was to be prime minister.
"It is his personal wish and not for the benefit of the rakyat that he is contesting the by-election in Permatang Pauh," he said, adding that Anwar should respect the Constitution and the country's democratic process.
Liow, who will head the MCA by-election machinery in Permatang Pauh with more than 3,000 MCA members and leaders going to the ground to campaign, said:
"I will let the people of Permatang Pauh know about Anwar's intentions in contesting the seat. The people should not be swayed by his play-acting or sandiwara.
"Don't use tricks and tactics to cause instability and anxiety. It is not good for the economy and political stability.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Wee demands front-page apology from newspaper - Star
JOHOR BARU: Aug 9, 2008 By FARIK ZOLKEPLI
A local English daily has until Monday to issue a front-page apology to Deputy Education Minister Dr Wee Ka Siong or face legal action in connection with the SMS regarding his purported resignation.
Dr Wee said his lawyer issued a letter of demand to the daily on Friday.
He explained that the apology was demanded in relation to defamatory statements made against him on the front page of the daily on July 31.
He said the defamatory statements alleged that he was involved with a student from China.
"The letter also said I have the right to commence legal proceedings against the daily and claim inter alia damages for the loss and reputation and financial loss should they fail to produce the apology.
"They also have to provide an undertaking not to repeat the allegations or make similar allegations," he said here Saturday.
Dr Wee has lodged a police report on SMSes being circulated among MCA leaders and elected representatives which implied that he would resign from all posts within 90 days like former Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek did on Oct 20 last year.
A local English daily has until Monday to issue a front-page apology to Deputy Education Minister Dr Wee Ka Siong or face legal action in connection with the SMS regarding his purported resignation.Dr Wee said his lawyer issued a letter of demand to the daily on Friday.
He explained that the apology was demanded in relation to defamatory statements made against him on the front page of the daily on July 31.
He said the defamatory statements alleged that he was involved with a student from China.
"The letter also said I have the right to commence legal proceedings against the daily and claim inter alia damages for the loss and reputation and financial loss should they fail to produce the apology.
"They also have to provide an undertaking not to repeat the allegations or make similar allegations," he said here Saturday.
Dr Wee has lodged a police report on SMSes being circulated among MCA leaders and elected representatives which implied that he would resign from all posts within 90 days like former Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek did on Oct 20 last year.
Tee Keat launches presidential website with moral message - Malaysiakini
Stanley Koh | Aug 9, 08 3:44pm
MCA vice-president and presidential aspirant Ong Tee Keat launched his presidential website in Kuala Lumpur this morning with a stern message on morality.
Saying that his new personal website was a platform for him to air and share his views, Ong kicked it off with a caution to party members of detractors in the party who harbour the hope that MCA would be lead by tainted leaders.
"This would make the party vulnerable to future subversions by its political enemies," Ong said.
"Nobody can force another to commit a wrong. A perpetrator should not give excuses or justifications in blaming others for exposing the moral wrongs.
"(Any tainted leaders) by bowing out (resigning) is not enough, they still have to face the (testing) of our cultural and social norms (governing their behaviour)”, said Ong who is also transport minister.
"Of late, I have come across remarks in view of the party elections that certain quarters or individuals are trying to subvert (psychologically) our cultural or social norms by saying that an apology can cleanse a person of any (morally) wrongdoing."
"A perpetrator has no right to impose upon others that he has been cleansed by an apology. He (or she) has no right in accusing others guilty for exposing the moral wrong, he or she has committed."
Right to judge
Instead the perpetrator should have the courage to lodge a police report to catch those who had exposed (his or her) wrongdoings as in the recent case of the MCA youth secretary-general Wee Ka Siong who was alleged to be involved in a sex scandal via SMS.
Ong stressed that the public has the right to judge the behaviour of party leaders but in the MCA elections, it was crucial that leaders inform the Chinese community of their plans for the future.
The website launching at Ong’s community service centre at Taman Muda, was attended by party supporters and several MCA divisional chairpersons from Pandan, Subang, Kuala Selangor and Hulu Langat.
The website, in English and Chinese, has the header "Ong Tee Keat for President" and incorporating the slogan, "Courage to Change and Creating New Values". It is accessible at www.ongteekeat.net.
Asked about his new website, Ong said, "I was one of the few members of parliament who had in 2001 launched a community website (previously for Ampang Jaya parliamentary constituency).
He said his new personal website launched today was his added dimension and a dream he had cherished for the past two years.
MCA vice-president and presidential aspirant Ong Tee Keat launched his presidential website in Kuala Lumpur this morning with a stern message on morality.
Saying that his new personal website was a platform for him to air and share his views, Ong kicked it off with a caution to party members of detractors in the party who harbour the hope that MCA would be lead by tainted leaders.
"This would make the party vulnerable to future subversions by its political enemies," Ong said.
"Nobody can force another to commit a wrong. A perpetrator should not give excuses or justifications in blaming others for exposing the moral wrongs."(Any tainted leaders) by bowing out (resigning) is not enough, they still have to face the (testing) of our cultural and social norms (governing their behaviour)”, said Ong who is also transport minister.
"Of late, I have come across remarks in view of the party elections that certain quarters or individuals are trying to subvert (psychologically) our cultural or social norms by saying that an apology can cleanse a person of any (morally) wrongdoing."
"A perpetrator has no right to impose upon others that he has been cleansed by an apology. He (or she) has no right in accusing others guilty for exposing the moral wrong, he or she has committed."
Right to judge
Instead the perpetrator should have the courage to lodge a police report to catch those who had exposed (his or her) wrongdoings as in the recent case of the MCA youth secretary-general Wee Ka Siong who was alleged to be involved in a sex scandal via SMS.
Ong stressed that the public has the right to judge the behaviour of party leaders but in the MCA elections, it was crucial that leaders inform the Chinese community of their plans for the future.
The website launching at Ong’s community service centre at Taman Muda, was attended by party supporters and several MCA divisional chairpersons from Pandan, Subang, Kuala Selangor and Hulu Langat.The website, in English and Chinese, has the header "Ong Tee Keat for President" and incorporating the slogan, "Courage to Change and Creating New Values". It is accessible at www.ongteekeat.net.
Asked about his new website, Ong said, "I was one of the few members of parliament who had in 2001 launched a community website (previously for Ampang Jaya parliamentary constituency).
He said his new personal website launched today was his added dimension and a dream he had cherished for the past two years.
Respect March 8 decision, says Liow - Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Aug 9, 2008
The Opposition is in control of five states, but its leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim continues to drag the country into political uncertainty because he wants to be prime minister.
MCA Youth chief Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said Anwar should respect the wishes of the people made known in the March 8 general election results.
“The Opposition keeps saying the wishes of the people must be respected.
“Then respect the decision of March 8. They want the Opposition to rule five states, but Barisan Nasional to helm the Federal Government.
“However, instead of concentrating on how to govern the fives states properly, Anwar is putting all effort to become prime minister. That was not what the voters wanted,” Liow told reporters after launching the Easy Pha-Max Healthylympics and the company’s first store here yesterday.
As for the sodomy allegation by Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan, Liow said it was unfair for Anwar to accuse the Government of conspiracy because “it is between the two of them”.
“Let the matter be settled in court. After all, Anwar and his team have said that the court has been fair.
“Stop hoodwinking the people by claiming that the Government is out to set him up,” he said.
The Opposition is in control of five states, but its leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim continues to drag the country into political uncertainty because he wants to be prime minister.
MCA Youth chief Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said Anwar should respect the wishes of the people made known in the March 8 general election results.“The Opposition keeps saying the wishes of the people must be respected.
“Then respect the decision of March 8. They want the Opposition to rule five states, but Barisan Nasional to helm the Federal Government.
“However, instead of concentrating on how to govern the fives states properly, Anwar is putting all effort to become prime minister. That was not what the voters wanted,” Liow told reporters after launching the Easy Pha-Max Healthylympics and the company’s first store here yesterday.
As for the sodomy allegation by Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan, Liow said it was unfair for Anwar to accuse the Government of conspiracy because “it is between the two of them”.
“Let the matter be settled in court. After all, Anwar and his team have said that the court has been fair.
“Stop hoodwinking the people by claiming that the Government is out to set him up,” he said.
Tee Keat: No need for running mate - Star
KOTA KINABALU: Aug 9, 2008
MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat, who is aspiring for the party’s presidency, is sticking to his stand of having no running mate in the party elections later this year.
He said what was important was for each aspiring candidate for any post to explain his or her plans and vision for the party and let the delegates decide.
“I believe there is only one team, the MCA team,” he told reporters here yesterday.
He said this when asked about former vice-president Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek’s comment on a radio show yesterday that there was a possibility of him running for the deputy presidency with Ong for the presidency.
“I did not listen to the show, so I would prefer not to comment,” Ong said.
In Petaling Jaya, three people behind the Save MCA campaign announced that they would contest for central committee posts.
Puchong division vice-chairman Datuk Theng Book, PJ Utara division deputy chairman Datuk Lim Choon Kim and Ipoh Timur division chairman Datuk Thong Fah Chong said they hoped to make a difference in the party by contesting.
MCA vice-president Datuk Ong Tee Keat, who is aspiring for the party’s presidency, is sticking to his stand of having no running mate in the party elections later this year.He said what was important was for each aspiring candidate for any post to explain his or her plans and vision for the party and let the delegates decide.
“I believe there is only one team, the MCA team,” he told reporters here yesterday.
He said this when asked about former vice-president Datuk Dr Chua Soi Lek’s comment on a radio show yesterday that there was a possibility of him running for the deputy presidency with Ong for the presidency.
“I did not listen to the show, so I would prefer not to comment,” Ong said.
In Petaling Jaya, three people behind the Save MCA campaign announced that they would contest for central committee posts.
Puchong division vice-chairman Datuk Theng Book, PJ Utara division deputy chairman Datuk Lim Choon Kim and Ipoh Timur division chairman Datuk Thong Fah Chong said they hoped to make a difference in the party by contesting.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Courtesy Visit to Ministry of Health
Aug 6, 2008 Posted by Richard Ng
Today, I was at that Ministry of Health with Alex Chan Chin Chee, our student, who was the former MCA State Assemblyman for Simpang Pulai in Perak. Alex Chan has just won the deputy head of MCA Gopeng Division. With his connection, I am able to meet the minister. Of course the minister was a busy man and in fact our meeting has been postponed twice due to MCA branch and division election.
Alex Chan at OUM Main Campus Library
We started our journey from Ipoh at 11.30am. I brought Alex to our OUM campus as he has never been to our campus before. I showed him our library and how a student can use OPAC to borrow books from our library via online.
Alex Chan with Prof. Kidin (centre) and Prof. Mukherjee
We also managed to meet two important people, Prof. Dr. Kidin (Dean of Faculty of Science and Technology) and Prof. Dr. Mukherjee. We have a short meeting before we proceed to Putrajaya.
We arrived at Putrajaya about 4.20pm as our appointment has been fixed at 4.30pm. As usual the ministry's office was full of people waiting to see him. We were called in by the Minister at 5pm sharp. We spent about 30 minutes talking about our Bachelor of Nursing Science program, our students and the practical that they will be doing at 21 selected government hospitals.
Richard Ng at the Ministry of Health
Richard Ng with Dato' Liow Tiong Lai, minister of health
We left at about 6pm and arrived in Ipoh at 10pm. It was a cordial and fruitful meeting. We hope the ministry will review our quota for our next BNS intake so that more students can take up the program.
Group photo with Minister of Health
On July 26, the Minister announced that there is shortage of 6,400 specialist nurses in the hospital as follows:
Not enough specialised nurses to go around - The Star
By AUDREY EDWARDS
KUALA LUMPUR: July 26, 2008
The shortage of nurses in Malaysia has caused several wards and intensive care units in newer hospitals to remain closed.
Health Minister Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said among the hospitals affected included those in Serdang, Sungai Buloh, Ampang and Sungai Petani.
“Many new hospitals are not able to open wards, intensive care units and operating theatres, which need a lot of post basic nurses,” he told reporters after opening the 2nd Universiti Malaya Medical Centre Nursing Congress 2008 yesterday.
He said that as of March this year, only 85.9% of the 42,476 staff nurse posts had been filled, while 6,004 posts remained vacant.
“The need for specialised nurses is growing with increasing specialisation of medical practice,” he said.
There were 11 areas which lacked nurses with post basic training. These included intensive care, coronary care, neo-natal care, paediatric care and emergency and traumatology, he said.
Only between 30% and 40% of nurses working in the 11 areas have been given the necessary post-basic training.
In addition to this, there are also new specialist nursing areas like HIV counselling, genetic counselling and neuro-radiology intervention.
Liow added that 27 nurses from India would arrive next month following the Cabinet’s approval last year to recruit 1,300 nurses from Asean and Commonwealth countries over a period of three years.
There are currently 73,613 nurses of all categories and grades in Malaysia where 78% worked with the ministry and the rest were in the private and non-ministry sectors.
Training is being done at 17 nursing colleges under the ministry, producing about 3,500 diploma nurses yearly while private colleges have also been roped in to help.
Today, I was at that Ministry of Health with Alex Chan Chin Chee, our student, who was the former MCA State Assemblyman for Simpang Pulai in Perak. Alex Chan has just won the deputy head of MCA Gopeng Division. With his connection, I am able to meet the minister. Of course the minister was a busy man and in fact our meeting has been postponed twice due to MCA branch and division election.
Alex Chan at OUM Main Campus LibraryWe started our journey from Ipoh at 11.30am. I brought Alex to our OUM campus as he has never been to our campus before. I showed him our library and how a student can use OPAC to borrow books from our library via online.
Alex Chan with Prof. Kidin (centre) and Prof. MukherjeeWe also managed to meet two important people, Prof. Dr. Kidin (Dean of Faculty of Science and Technology) and Prof. Dr. Mukherjee. We have a short meeting before we proceed to Putrajaya.
We arrived at Putrajaya about 4.20pm as our appointment has been fixed at 4.30pm. As usual the ministry's office was full of people waiting to see him. We were called in by the Minister at 5pm sharp. We spent about 30 minutes talking about our Bachelor of Nursing Science program, our students and the practical that they will be doing at 21 selected government hospitals.
Richard Ng at the Ministry of Health
Richard Ng with Dato' Liow Tiong Lai, minister of healthWe left at about 6pm and arrived in Ipoh at 10pm. It was a cordial and fruitful meeting. We hope the ministry will review our quota for our next BNS intake so that more students can take up the program.
Group photo with Minister of HealthOn July 26, the Minister announced that there is shortage of 6,400 specialist nurses in the hospital as follows:
Not enough specialised nurses to go around - The Star
By AUDREY EDWARDS
KUALA LUMPUR: July 26, 2008
The shortage of nurses in Malaysia has caused several wards and intensive care units in newer hospitals to remain closed.
Health Minister Datuk Liow Tiong Lai said among the hospitals affected included those in Serdang, Sungai Buloh, Ampang and Sungai Petani.
“Many new hospitals are not able to open wards, intensive care units and operating theatres, which need a lot of post basic nurses,” he told reporters after opening the 2nd Universiti Malaya Medical Centre Nursing Congress 2008 yesterday.
He said that as of March this year, only 85.9% of the 42,476 staff nurse posts had been filled, while 6,004 posts remained vacant.
“The need for specialised nurses is growing with increasing specialisation of medical practice,” he said.
There were 11 areas which lacked nurses with post basic training. These included intensive care, coronary care, neo-natal care, paediatric care and emergency and traumatology, he said.
Only between 30% and 40% of nurses working in the 11 areas have been given the necessary post-basic training.
In addition to this, there are also new specialist nursing areas like HIV counselling, genetic counselling and neuro-radiology intervention.
Liow added that 27 nurses from India would arrive next month following the Cabinet’s approval last year to recruit 1,300 nurses from Asean and Commonwealth countries over a period of three years.
There are currently 73,613 nurses of all categories and grades in Malaysia where 78% worked with the ministry and the rest were in the private and non-ministry sectors.
Training is being done at 17 nursing colleges under the ministry, producing about 3,500 diploma nurses yearly while private colleges have also been roped in to help.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
