dewan rakyat – day 3 : SETTING THE TONE - malaysia parliament opens with political animals noises

On April 6, 2008: Malaysia's duelling leaders lock horns over poll losses

New Malaysia parliament opens with rowdy name-calling The first debate in Malaysia's new parliament descended into noisy name-calling Wednesday as a newly emboldened opposition took on the government. Monkey and Bigfoot were two of the epithets used in a rowdy session during which lawmakers shouted and gesticulated in heated exchanges across the floor of the chamber.

The first sitting of Malaysia's 12th parliament was delayed by more than 20 minutes as government and opposition parliamentarians hurled barbs and raised technical issues.

Opposition Democratic Action Party chairman and lawmaker Karpal Singh began by questioning the way the session was being held when he was distracted by a government MP, Bung Moktar Radin.

"I hope Bigfoot... does not disrupt the proceedings," Karpal taunted him. "Bigfoot, sit down." Bung sprang from his chair, shouting: "I am bigfoot, you are big monkey."

Speaker Pandikar Amin Mulia struggled to control the situation. "Let's not create chaos in parliament," he appealed as the verbal exchanges continued, "let us ensure there is order in parliament."

A semblance of order was restored when Abdullah responded to a question on measures taken to reduce the impact of rising fuel and food prices. However, Pandikar's refusal to allow the usual follow-up questions to the PM's response drew a further outburst, with former opposition leader Lim Kit Siang calling the restriction "a mockery of parliament."

PM Requests Speaker to Allow Him to Accept Supplementary Questions KUALA LUMPUR, April 30 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Wednesday demonstrated his willingness to answer any question from members of parliament when he voluntarily requested Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia to allow him to take supplementary questions during the question time.
LIVE FROM PARLIAMENT: Members of the public at the Bowl Kopitiam, Petaling Jaya, listening to the Prime Minister's speech during the first Parliamentary sitting. The session was televised nationwide. NST Pix by Nik Rosli Ishak.

Dewan Rakyat Live Telecast May Be Reviewed KUALA LUMPUR, April 30 (Bernama) -- The trial live telecast of 30 minutes of the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat may be reviewed because Minister Datuk Ahmad Shabery Cheek feels several Opposition MPs attempted to seek cheap publicity by raising trivial issues during Wednesday's maiden broadcast.

Only Three Questions Asked During 90-minute Question-and-answer Session In Dewan Rakyat KUALA LUMPUR, April 30 (Bernama) -- The question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat which began its sitting Wednesday was disrupted for almost an hour when several members of parliament, particularly from the opposition, raised questions on the meeting procedures.

IRON MAN IN MALAYSIAN CINEMAS

Iron Man: Coming to theaters in 2008 from Paramount Pictures and Marvel Entertainment, based on Marvel's best-selling Iron Man comic book character. When Tony Stark is forced to create a life support armour to keep him alive after an accident, he decides to use the technology in his suit to fight crime. Watch: Iron Man trailer

PM to answer first question live on TV; To Attend 4th WIEF In Kuwait

PM to answer first question live on TV
By : V. Vasudevan

pix courtesy of parlimen malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will answer the first question when the Dewan Rakyat's historic live telecast of "Question Hour" begins on Wednesday.

And the honour of asking the question goes to Razali Ibrahim, the Barisan Nasional's MP for Muar.

Razali's question will be on the government's new approach towards improving the quality of life of the people, especially in strengthening their purchasing power, public security and ethnic integration.

Abdullah will take the floor again for question three and question five.


Question three will be from the new opposition leader, Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, and it is directed at Abdullah as the finance minister.

Her question will be on the finance minister's commitment on the implementation of open tenders which he had made after 100 days in office.


Question five will come from the former opposition leader, Lim Kit Siang, of DAP, the MP for Ipoh Timur.

Lim will ask the prime minister to outline the 10 steps the government will take in its quest for renewal and reform over the next 12 months.

Details of the first day's questions, and the questions which will be asked daily, have been sent to the 222 MPs since Monday.

The House reserves the right to change the order of the questions. This is usually done at the request of the government.

Bukit Bintang MP Fong Kui Lun said yesterday he had received his copy of questions for the 14-day sitting on Monday.

"There are 72 questions for the first day's sitting.

"My question is the second question on May 22 and if the order is not changed, I will be asking it live on television," he said.

Fong said the current session is for 14 days and not all the MPs would be able to field questions during the 30- minute live telecast segment.

On the average, the House deals with 10 questions a day during "Question Hour". Those left unanswered will be given written replies.

-- NST

April 29, 2008 15:17 PM
Abdullah To Attend 4th WIEF In Kuwait
KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi will attend the 4th World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF) in Kuwait that will be held from April 29 to May 1, 2008.

In a statement here Tuesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Abdullah, who was expected to arrive in Kuwait tomorrow, was scheduled to address the forum on May 1.

The delegation would also include officials from the ministry and the Prime Ministers Department, it said.

The WIEF was evolved from the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) Business Forum that was held alongside the 10th Session of the Islamic Summit Conference of the OIC held in Kuala Lumpur in 2003.

It provides a platform for leaders from the public and private sectors to discuss various economic issues affecting the ummah and the world.

The forum also provides a framework of cooperation between Muslims and non-Muslims around the world.

Abdullah would also have an audience with the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and would call on his counterpart, Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

-- BERNAMA

Dewan Rakyat - Day 2 : SPEECH FROM THE THRONE

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Opens First Session of 12th Parliament KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Bernama) -- The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, Tuesday opened the first session of the 12th Parliament following the general election on March 8.

ROYAL TOUCH: THE Yang diPertuan Agong, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, receiving the royal address from Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in conjunction with the opening of the 12th Parliamentary session. In his speech, the King said the government would strive to retain its subsidies and other forms of assistance to enable the people to face the consequences of rising fuel prices in the international market. - NST PIX by Effendy Rashid

Govt to Retain Subsidies, Says Yang di-Pertuan Agong KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Bernama) -- The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, said Tuesday the government would strive to retain its subsidies and other forms of assistance to enable the people face the consequences of rising fuel prices in the international market.

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Wants Economic Corridors to Benefit All the People KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Bernama) -- The Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin, wants the government to ensure that its five regional economic development corridors will benefit all the people.

Bungle in deputy speaker voting forces review of PR pact

Bungle in deputy speaker voting forces review of PR pact
By V. Vasudevan, Suresh Ram, Eileen Ng and S. Kamini
pix: Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi bersalaman dengan Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim selepas majlis Istiadat Pembukaan Penggal Pertama Majlis Parlimen Malaysia yang ke-12.
THE de facto leader of Pakatan Rakyat has called on its members to ensure better cooperation, after Monday’s embarrassment when an opposition MP refused to cast a vote for the pact’s candidate for a deputy speaker’s post. Even worse for the pact, 17 of its 82 MPs cast their vote for one of the rival candidates, Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar (BN-Santubong). Blaming the bungle on the pact’s failure to make a stand on the matter, Anwar said he had a discussion with leaders of the Pakatan Rakyat on Monday. “In future, we have to reach a consensus early,” he said after attending the Royal Address.

In Monday’s voting, all the 140 Barisan Nasional MPs voted for the coalition’s candidates. Wan Junaidi picked up 157 votes while his counterpart Datuk Ronald Kiandee (BN-Beluran) received 140 votes. However, Pakatan Rakyat’s candidate Dr Tan Seng Giaw received 81 votes instead of the expected 82.

Many opposition deputies felt Dr Tan could have been denied the one vote by Datuk Ibrahim Ali, who won his Pasir Mas seat as a Pas candidate but sits in the House as an Independent.

Pas president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang played down the opposition vote bungle. “It shows that there is democracy in Pakatan Rakyat on matters where members could exercise their will. It also shows that we do not force Pakatan members to vote. It is also not a policy matter,” he said.

DAP advisor Lim Kit Siang said it was clear that the three parties — PKR, DAP and Pas — rooted for Dr Tan.

On the 17 votes to Wan Junaidi, Lim said it showed that opposition members voted only for the first deputy speaker and the votes did not go to the second deputy speaker.

Selangor Menteri Besar and Bandar Tun Razak MP Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim said there was a need to improve communications among the Pakatan ranks.

Keadilan vice president Azmin Ali said the opposition did not vote for the BN candidate because they supported Wan Junaidi. “There was some confusion in yesterday (Monday) as some Pakatan Rakyat members told me they had submitted two names because they were worried that their votes will be considered a spoilt vote if they only voted for one person.”

DAP chairman Karpal Singh agreed, saying Tian Chua sought clarification on whether MPs needed to vote for two deputies or one but the others “probably didn’t hear the speaker’s reply”. ________________________________________
© Copyright 2008 The New Straits Times Press (M) Berhad. All rights reserved.

PAS MAY PUT UP VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE AGAINST PM

PAS may put up vote of no confidence against PM
pix seqadar hiasan semata

[KL, March 28, 2007] THE opposition Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) may table a motion of no confidence against the Prime Minister when Parliament is convened on April 29, according to a senior PAS leader. And it appears the opposition Islamic party is counting on disgruntled members of the ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition for the motion to succeed. But lawmakers from fellow opposition parties are more cautious about the move. A senior member of the Democratic Action Party (DAP) described such a motion as a 'serious matter' that needed to be studied, while another from Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) said his party would look into whether it was 'timely'.
PAS vice-president Husam Musa said many MPs were unhappy with the BN-led federal government following its dismal performance in the March 8 poll. This was why his Islamist party wanted a change in the country's leadership, Datuk Husam was quoted as saying in The Star newspaper yesterday (March 27, 2008 - ed.).
In the general election, the opposition won 82 of the 222 Parliament seats. PAS won 23 while its opposition allies, the DAP and PKR, secured 28 and 23 seats respectively. Even if all opposition MPs were to support the motion, they would be 30 votes short of passing it. So the opposition must rely on the possibility that some disgruntled BN MPs may absent themselves from the vote or, worse yet, defect to the other side.
Constitutional law expert Shad Faruqi said that, under the law, the king has two options once Parliament approves a motion of no confidence against a prime minister. One is for the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, as Malaysia's constitutional monarch is known, to appoint a new prime minister from among the MPs who have the support of the majority in Parliament. 'The other option is for the king to dissolve the Parliament and call for fresh elections,' the lecturer at the Mara University of Technology told The Straits Times.
A no-confidence motion has never been tabled in Malaysia.
source: THE STRAITS TIMES via malaysia-today

Anwar: No motion against PM - TheStarOnline.tv, thestaronline
Parti Keadilan Rakyat Advisor Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says the opposition will not be pushing for a motion of no confidence against the Prime Minister any time soon.

http://thestaronline.tv/default.aspx?vid=1196
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vQItlQlQ_q0

Two views on moving a no-confidence vote

By : B. Suresh Ram

KUALA LUMPUR: Can a vote of no-confidence be tabled against the primeminister or the government in the Dewan Rakyat? While former Dewan Rakyat secretary Datuk Abdullah Abdul Wahab said this was impossible, Universiti Teknologi Mara Professor of Law andlegal adviser Dr Shad Saleem Faruqi disagreed.

Abdullah said the standing orders in the Dewan Rakyat did not allow for such a motion. Even if an attempt was made, it would be "killed" by the Barisan Nasional-appointed speaker who had the right to determine, after consulting the government, if there was a need for such a motion. He said there were no provisions enabling the passing of such a motion in the house. "The situation has never arisen which warrants a need for a show of confidence in the government or leader of the house," Abdullah said.

Faruqi, however, felt that Article 43(4) of the Federal Constitution allowed for a vote of no-confidence against the prime minister and the government. He said there was, however, no specific procedure for such a move and that it could come in the form of a motion tabled by a member of parliament. "At the end of the day, it is up to the speaker to use his discretionary powers on whether to allow such a motion."

Both were commenting on the matter following statements by the opposition that its MPs would be moving a motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in the Dewan Rakyat. On March 28, Pas vice-president, Datuk Husam Musa, said the party may table a motion of no-confidence against Abdullah when parliament convenes on Tuesday. Two weeks later, de facto Parti Keadilan Rakyat leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim played down the issue by saying that Pakatan Rakyat would not move such a vote at this juncture. -- MORE

Dewan Rakyat - Day 1 : ICE BREAKER

Dewan Rakyat Convenes First Meeting, Pandikar Amin Sworn In As Speaker
KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- The first meeting of the first session of the 12th parliament began today, with the swearing-in of the 222 members of parliament led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. Before the MPs were sworn in, Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia, a veteran Sabah politician, took the oath of office and was proclaimed the Dewan Rakyat speaker. – MORE

Parliament opens, votes decide deputy speakers
KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 - It was like the first day of school. Lawmakers in spiffy new clothes, mostly in suits, walking in smartly with either their spouses or parents or children, ready to be sworn in after the March 8 general elections.
With 99 new Members of Parliament and a record 82 on the Opposition bench, some MPs appeared lost looking for their place in the chamber while others exchanged stories with those who survived and kept their seats.
This is the second time the ruling Barisan Nasional and its predecessor, the Alliance, have had only a simple majority instead of a two-thirds majority since independence in August 1957.
But the first day of the 12th Parliament was sedate with veteran politician and Democratic Action Party (DAP) chairman Karpal Singh providing the only drama when he invoked the Parliament's Standing Orders to get MPs to hold their right hand while taking the oath.
Apparently one MP had failed to do so while taking the oath before Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia. Ironically, a wheelchair-bound Karpal sought dispensation to take his oath with his left hand. -- MORE


Parliament's First Session 0:35 mins 222 MPs sworn in as Parliament holds its first session on Monday. -- thestaronline
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBFeyDrHgpA
http://thestaronline.tv/default.aspx?vid=1276

Malaysia's new lawmakers take oath
Malaysia's newly elected lawmakers took the oath of office in parliament on Monday after March 8 general elections which changed the political landscape.…
Abdullah was the first one to be sworn in parliament, followed by his deputy Najib Razak and other cabinet ministers.
"I, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, being chosen as a member of parliament, vow to honestly fulfil my obligations with all my strength.
"I pledge my true loyalty to Malaysia and vow to preserve, protect and defend the constitution," Abdullah, who wore a black and gold traditional Malay outfit, said.
King Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin will officially open the first session of the 222-member parliament on Tuesday. –MORE

New MPs Upbeat About Duties
KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- New members of parliament (MPs) are upbeat about their duties.Lenggong MP Datuk Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said he would defend government policies."This is the best opportunity for the MPs to speak in the interest of the people," he told reporters after the swearing-in ceremony here Monday.Labis MP Chua Tee Yong hoped to pick up the tricks of the trade from senior MPs by mingling with them on his first day in parliament."Initially, I'll observe the sitting especially the question-and-answer session before taking part in the debate," he said.For Lembah Pantai MP Nurul Izzah Anwar, she would use the sitting of parliament to voice out the grouses of her constituents."I'm ready to carry out the task entrusted on me. I will also raise issues affecting the younger generation and the need to improve the systems," she said.Titiwangsa MP Dr Lo'Lo Mohamad Ghazali said besides focusing on women's issues, she would also highlight the need to address urban poverty.-- BERNAMA

Police Asked To Ensure Smooth Traffic Flow To Parliament KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar wants police to ensure smooth traffic flow to the Parliament building here. -- MORE

Pandikar To Look Into Claims That Wan Azizah Not Invited To Parliament Opening
KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- Newly sworn-in Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia said Monday he would look into claims that Opposition Leader Datin Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail was not sent an invitation card for the opening the 12th Parliament Tuesday."If I think that this needs to be corrected, I will correct it. I've just been appointed speaker... but the invitations were sent out earlier. We will invite those who should be invited," he told reporters here Monday. -- MORE

Who did not vote for Tan Seng Giaw? - The election for the two posts of deputy speaker proceeded smoothly, but many were puzzled why DAP national deputy chairman Dr Tan Seng Giaw only managed to get 81 votes when there were 82 Opposition representatives in the Dewan Rakyat today. -- MORE

MP Bloggers @Work - thestaronline
New MPs Jeff Ooi and Tony Pua are famous for their blogs and both are committed to blogging while they are seated in the Dewan Rakyat.
http://thestaronline.tv/default.aspx?vid=1279
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R27T0HWgbv8

Pakatan MPs usher new age in Malaysian politics
KUALA LUMPUR, Apr 28 (ES) - Parliamentarians from the Pakatan Rakyat (PR) coalition met at the onset of the new parliamentary sitting to begin on Wednesday expressed hope for a more democratic and a country that no longer being defined by communal interest.
The 82 PR parliamentarians from Islamic Party of Malaysia (PAS), People's Justice Party (KeADILan) and Democratic Action Party (DAP) were today sworn in for a new sitting that promises to be "lively" and "historic". -- MORE

et cetera, etc...

Khilafah: Council of the Ummah (Majlis ul-Ummah) and Government struct

The purpose of man and the ultimate goal of his life is obedience to God’s will as enshrined in the Shari’ah and defined by it. The divine Shari’ah is Sovereign. The Khalifah is bound to implement it.

The scholars have agreed that the divine rules are addressed to all; therefore, non-Muslim citizens of the Khilafah have the same rights as Muslims in voicing their opinions and being members of the regional assembly or majlis ul-ummah.

The Khilafah has its own system of values and priorities, which can only be revealed by contemplating over its structure.

MPs to be sworn in on April 28

MPs to be sworn in on April 28

[KL, March 27, 2008]: The 222 newly-elected members of parliament will be sworn in on April 28, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Depart-ment Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz said yesterday (March 26, 2008 - ed). YDP Agung Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin will open both houses of parliament on April 29.
Nazri told the NST that the Dewan Rakyat will sit for 16 days. He said notices were being prepared to be sent to the MPs.
Nazri said the 3 opposition parties – DAP, PKR, and Pas – will also have their own offices in the parliament complex. Previously, only a single office was provided for the opposition.
Another change will see the establishment of between 16 and 20 functional offices for the various cabinet portfolios and their ministers. “This will be their office when parliament is in session,” he said, adding that this would also enable the ministers to attend the parliament sessions.
On the seating arrangement in the Dewan Rakyat, which will see a drastic change this time compared with previous parliaments, Nazri said it was still being finalized. The seating arrangement in the Dewan Rakyat is in the form of a horse shoe comprising 8 blocks. In the 12th general election, BN won 140 seats, PKR 31, DAP 29 and PAS 23 seats. The opposition will occupy 3-and-a-half blocks, with the remainder going to the BN. -- nstonline

MPs urged to follow the rules

KUALA LUMPUR, April 26 ─ New Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia has urged MPs to follow the rules when debating issues. The House sits on Monday.
"I want to be fair to everybody but all MPs should know what to do and they must do it within the parameters of the rules. If they follow the rules, everybody will be happy," he told reporters at the rehearsal of the opening ceremony for the first session of the 12th Parliament yesterday.
Also present were Santubong MP Datuk Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and Beluran MP Datuk Ronald Kiandee, who were both appointed Deputy Speakers.
Pandikar Amin, 52, a former minister in the Prime Minister's Department, replaces Tan Sri Ramli Ngah Talib and become only the seventh Speaker since Parliament was created in 1959.
Asked whether errant MPs would be asked to leave the House, he said: "I don't know yet. Let us wait and see."
Pandikar Amin, who was surprised over his appointment, thanked those involved in the decision and pledged to give his best.
Monday's sitting is set to make a record of sorts with 99 new MPs and a strong Opposition with 82 MPs, a four-fold increase from the last one.
The 12th Dewan Rakyat session will be opened by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin on Tuesday. ─ Bernama

kashf: cosmic revelations - the causes for mistake are many and the possibility of error is great

In the field of cosmic revelations the causes for mistake are many and the possibility of error is great. The occurrence of these revelations is as good as their non-occurrence.

You may ask how it is that sometimes error creeps into the revelations of the saints, and something different actually happens. A saint informs, for instance, that so and so will die after a month or return home from his journey. But when the month is over neither happens.

The answer is that the revelation may depend for its occurrence upon certain conditions whose details the recipient of the revelation could not discover, yet he told about it in categorical terms.

There may be another possibility: The Gnostic may come to know from the preserved tablet about a particular event, but that event might change, as it belongs to the category of conditional decrees of whose nature and liability to change he is unaware. In such a case, therefore, if he tells what he knows that might not happen.

Know that the decrees of God are two kinds: alterable and non-alterable. The former is subject to change and alteration, the latter is not. God says: ‘My decrees do not change.’[50:29] This refers to the non-alterable decrees. About the alterable He says: ‘He effaces what He will and confirms (what He will), and with Him is the Mother-Book.’ [13:39]

people's pact: PKR, DAP and PAS plan to formalise cooperation, hold national convention on April 27

PKR, DAP and PAS plan to formalise cooperation [PETALING JAYA, TUES, April 1 2008] - Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR), DAP and PAS today [April 1, 2008 –ed.] agreed to consolidate the cooperation between the three parties and proposed their alliance be called the “Pakatan Rakyat” (People’s Pact).
PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said DAP advisor Lim Kit Siang, PAS president Datuk Seri Hadi Awang, PKR president Datuk Seri Wan Azizah Wan Ismail had all agreed that the move to formalise the alliance be brought back to their respective parties for approval.“The name will be adopted once all the three parties give the green light,” he told reporters after holding a meeting for the purpose with the heads of the three opposition parties at the PKR’s headquarters here. He said down the road a leadership council would be formed for the pact to give it “teeth”.Anwar said once the pact was formalised, he would only chair its meetings but would not lead it. He also said that the three parties would be holding a national convention on April 27 to help increase understanding and cooperation among their members of parliament and state assemblymen. However, he said the venue for it had yet to be determined.
Asked about the possibility of crises erupting in the states ruled by the alliance of the three parties, he said it would not happen easily as all the three parties had the interests of the people foremost. “Small and petty issues won’t rattle the alliance. For me what happened in Perak was a very small misunderstanding which has been amicably resolved,” he said referring to Buntong assemblyman A.Sivasubramaniam wanting to quit the DAP yesterday but withdrawing his intention a few hours later.
Abdul Hadi said Islam would not be a major issue in the states controlled by the alliance. “Don’t make Islam an issue because the religion calls for tolerance in all matters and also serves as an invaluable guideline in politics,” he said.
Lim Kit Siang nodded in agreement. Lim said the alliance learnt a lot from the mistakes they made when they formed the Barisan Alternatif previously but with the Pakatan Rakyat, the future was bright for them (PKR, DAP and PAS). – BERNAMA

April 24, 2008 : Pakatan event postponed – no convention but banquet on Monday evening

KUALA LUMPUR: The much-awaited Pakatan Rakyat convention has been postponed.
Originally slated for Sunday, it has been put on hold until "we can get everyone together at the same time".
That was the reason given by PKR deputy president Professor Dr Syed Husin Ali when contacted by the New Straits Times.
"No one is boycotting anything," he said, adding there would be a dinner for the coalition parliamentarians on Monday evening.
But there have been rumblings on DAP's side that the initial planning for the convention was haphazard. DAP chairman Karpal Singh, seemed confounded about the gathering for 400 Pakatan reps and leaders to discuss common goals and parliamentary strategies.
"Oh, was there supposed to be a convention?"

Servanthood: Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (may God be pleased with him) is the greatest wali after the Prophets

The greatness of a saint lies not in vision or perception; it lies in serving God. Man is the servant of God and in the service of God lays his perfection and glory. The more one serves God, the more perfect one is. If he thinks that he can transcend the boundaries of servanthood, or that it is a mark of perfection, he is most ignorant, and farthest removed from the right path.

The measure of a wali’s greatness is his faith and his obedience to God. Miracles (karamah) are no criterion. The revelation of secrets (kashf) or the control over events (tasarruf), are not necessarily better than those acts which do not produce them. If a kashf and tasarruf is not helpful for religion it is a worldly thing: a lot of infidels, pagans and men of the book perform them, whereas many Muslims don’t.

The best of the saints of God are those who follow the Prophet most closely: that is why Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (may God be pleased with him) is the greatest wali after the Prophets.

Former Cabinet Minister Makes Police Statement Over Alleged Molest Report

Former Cabinet Minister Makes Police Statement Over Alleged Molest Reportpix seqadar hiasan semata
KUALA LUMPUR, April 25 (Bernama) -- A former cabinet minister, at the centre of an alleged molest case, Friday gave a statement to the police to facilitate investigations.
The incident involving a hotel assistant supervisor was said to have occurred at a five-star hotel near the Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station on April 14.
Kuala Lumpur police chief, Datuk Muhammad Sabtu Osman said the man, with the title 'datuk seri', had his statement recorded at 11am, but declined to state the venue.
"The police will continue to investigate according to procedures although the victim had retracted the police report," he said here Friday.
Last Friday, the woman in her 30s, lodged a police report at the Brickfields police headquarters, alleging the former minister of molesting her at the hotel.
However, she retracted the report two days later, through a lawyer's letter sent to the Attorney-General and the police.
-- BERNAMA

April 24, 2008: Police not dropping molest case against ex-minister : Police will not drop investigations into molest allegations by a woman against a former minister, despite the retraction of the report by the victim. City police chief Datuk Muhammad Sabtu Osman said the police will continue investigating the case and are waiting to talk to the former minister, who is currently overseas. -- MORE

Bekas Menteri Jadi Singa Di Hotel Brickfields - malaysianews
April 23, 2008: Siapa Bekas Menteri Yg Kaki Raba? - batugiling

King orders Hindraf 5 to complete their 2-year term

King orders Hindraf 5 to complete their 2-year term KUALA LUMPUR: The five Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf) leaders, detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA), will complete serving their two-year term as ordered by the king.

In a statement yesterday, lawyer Karpal Singh said this was contained in a letter dated April 16 addressed to one of the five, lawyer Ganabatirau Veeraman, by the Home Ministry's Security and Public Order Division officer Mohamad Irza Dahari.

"The other detainees, have received similar letters," he said.

They are lawyers Uthayakumar Ponnusamy, 46, Manoharan Malayalam, 46, and Kengadharan Ramasamy, 40, and ex-bank executive Vasantha Kumar Krishnan, 34.

The letter said the Prime Minister's Advisory Board had forwarded its recommendation to the king who issued the order on March 26, following an appeal by the five.

They are detained for allegedly organising an illegal rally.

Karpal Appeals To PM For Hindraf Leaders' Release
KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 (Bernama) -- DAP Chairman Karpal Singh today appealed to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi to instruct Home Minister Datuk Seri Syed Hamid Albar to revoke the detention order on the five Hindraf leaders detained under the Internal Security Act (ISA).

Karpal said that despite the detention orders by the King, Syed Hamid could at any time under the law revoke the orders on the five leaders of the Hindu Rights Action Force (Hindraf).

The King had on March 26 ordered for the leaders two-year detention, effective Dec 13 last year, be continued until completion.

"I would have thought, in line with the reconciliatory stance of the government in bringing about reforms, including setting up of a judicial commission for the appointment and promotion of judges, the five leaders would have been set free to rejoin their families.

"In fact, the Government should, in line with this approach, repeal the ISA," said Karpal, who is also Bukit Gelugor MP, in a statement tonight.

On Dec 13 last year, the authorities detained M. Manoharan, P. Uthayakumar, V. Ganabatirau, R. Kenghadharan and K. Vasanthakumar for organising a mass rally in the federal capital and making demands for the rights of Indians in the country.-- BERNAMA

Is DAP showing its true colours?
Posted by Raja Petra
Thursday, 24 April 2008

Aiyah, bilalah orang DAP nak buang otak Cina dan tukar kepada otak Malaysia? Patutlah orang Umno suruh orang DAP balek Cina. Aku dah lama nak masuk DAP tapi meluat tengok perangai Chinese Chauvinist DAP ni.

Griffith University : Judge accuses Aussie varsity of promoting hardline Islam

Judge accuses Aussie varsity of promoting hardline Islam

MELBOURNE: A judge has likened Griffith University in Brisbane, which last year boasted it had attracted "two prominent Malaysian figures" to undertake their PhD research there, as propagating hardline Islamic teachings similar to the madrasah in Pakistan.

Queensland District Court judge Clive Wall also accused Griffith of promoting a Muslim ideology espoused by Osama bin Laden, founder of the al-Qaeda terrorist network.

In an e-newsletter last June, the Griffith Islamic Research Unit (GIRU) announced that Parti Keadilan Rakyat adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim would undertake research at GIRU.

The Australian newspaper quoted Wall as accusing Griffith of becoming an "agent" for propagating hardline Islamic teachings by using funds from Saudi Arabia.

But GIRU director Mohamad Abdalla rejected accusations that funding from Saudi Arabia would be used to promote Wahabism, saying that his centre was opposed to the hardline ideology, and was in favour of moderate Islam. - Bernama
Griffith Islamic Research Unit - The central aim of the Griffith Islamic Research Unit is to promote a Wasatiyya or balanced and contextualised understanding of Islam and Muslims.
The Asian Renaissance: Scholar - Anwar Ibrahim

Development and establishment of Islamic Real Estate investment trust in Australia : Scholar - Abd Khalid Ibrahim

Griffith gains Islamic Studies Centre - Story Deborah Marshall

Man in the net ‘too busy to worry about politics’ quits politicking

Ex-Gerakan deputy sec-gen ‘too busy to worry about politics’
PENANG: Former Gerakan deputy secretary-general Datuk Lee Kah Choon is too busy with his new duties at the Penang Development Corporation and InvestPenang to think about politics.
Lee, now an ordinary party member, said he preferred to focus on his new tasks at the two state economic development agencies and leave his political position as it was.
On whether he would quit the party, Lee said he hardly had time to think about anything else these past few days.
“I have started meeting up with investors. There are a lot of things that need to be done. My work can’t stop. I have a heavy responsibility,” he said.
On whether he would join DAP or PKR if the Gerakan central working committee terminated his membership, Lee said he did not have a crystal ball to predict the future.
Earlier at a function in InvestPenang office, Lee said his political affiliation and his decision to accept the appointments were two separate issues.
Asked to comment on Gerakan adviser Datuk Seri Dr Lim Keng Yaik’s outburst over his appointments, Lee said: “As politicians, we are ready to take all blows from anywhere. Never mind, let him say what he wants.
“In the previous Barisan Nasional state government, there were also Opposition members working here. So, my presence here should not be an issue. From the civil servants’ point of view, they serve the government of the day.”
On Monday, Dr Lim had said it would be difficult for Lee as both Gerakan and DAP would be suspicious of him.
“Gerakan will be wary of him as he will be promoting the agenda of the Pakatan Rakyat state government while DAP would be guarded as he is a Gerakan member,” he said.
Lee said his post in InvestPenang was on a voluntary basis and did not come with a salary.

Related Stories:

Kah Choon the right man for the job, says Guan Eng

Lee’s action ‘against BN spirit’

Show-cause letter for Lee

Little choice for Lee but to quit

Lee quits as Gerakan member (updated)
By CHRISTINA CHIN
PENANG: Former Gerakan deputy secretary-general Datuk Lee Kah Choon has “totally retreated” from party politics by quitting the party.
Lee said since his decision to accept the state appointments as Penang Development Corporation (PDC) director and InvestPenang executive committee chairman was “unacceptable” to the party, he had submitted a letter to the Gerakan leadership to withdraw his membership.
“I believe it is best for me to retreat totally from party politics. This way, I hope we can put the matter to rest and move forward with the serious tasks at hand. I want to reiterate my stand that I will be focusing on serving society as a citizen.
“With the political ghost exorcised, I can now look forward to working with all parties to ensure that Penang leads again,” he said Wednesday.
Commenting on former chief minister and Gerakan acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon’s statement that he had no direct experience in promoting investment in the industrial sector, Lee described this as “inaccurate”.
“Criticism on my lack of experience is inaccurate. My professional and service track record speaks for itself.
“If anything, the criticism only drives me to achieve more for the state,” he said, adding that his decision to accept the “non-political roles to serve the socio-economic interests of Penang” was motivated by the fact that the state’s interest “cannot be compromised” by any political consideration.
“In the next quarter, the projected global economic slowdown is going to affect our export-orientated economic performance.
“I believe the focus on job creation and measures to ensure sustainable growth is more important than politicking.
“My objective – which is serving the people, is clear and it has remained consistent throughout my political career. Hence, I have decided to answer the Government’s call for me to serve in both state agencies in this trying period,” he said in a press statement.
On Monday night, the party's central working committee decided to send Lee a show-cause letter asking him to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken against him.
Dr Koh questioned Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng’s political motive in appointing Lee, describing the appointment as “improper” as it would jeopardise the state’s industrial sector and efforts and ability to effectively attract investment.

rules of shari’ah for all

The duties of the Shari’ah are for the novice as well as for the accomplished. In this matter an ordinary Muslim and the most perfect Gnostic are one. It is the amateur Sufis and unworthy heretics trying to throw away the yoke of the Shari’ah who say that the rules of the Shari’ah are for the laity.

In their view, what is required of the Sufi is to attain gnosis (ma’rifat), just as what is required of the amirs and the sultans is to rule with justice. They say that the purpose of obeying the Shari’ah is to gain knowledge; consequently, when knowledge is gained the duties of the Shari’ah decline.

In support of this they cite the verse of the Qur’aan: ‘Serve your Lord till you get yaqin,’ taking yaqin to mean God, following the interpretation of Sahl Tustari. That is to say, the duty of serving God comes to an end when one gets to know Him.

But if Sahl takes yaqin in the sense of God, what he apparently means is that the feeling of obligation in serving God disappears when one comes to know Him truly; he does not mean that the service itself drops.

To be sure, that would be sheer heresy and infidelity.

justice4all: Anwar wants Dr M’s blood?

Black 14: Anwar Asks PM To Conduct Open Investigation On Dr M – bernamaApril 19: Kenapa Sukar Memohon Maaf? -anwaribrahimblog
By Anwar Ibrahim 0 Comments
Categories: Anwar, Demokrasi, Isu Semasa and Mahkamah

Ada di kalangan saudara/i pantas memberikan reaksi terhadap kenyataan PM Abdullah mengenai krisis badan kehakiman. Ada beberapa persoalan yang berbangkit yang harus dihalusi.

Pertama: sanggahan kita terhadap rasuah dan hakim yang diperalatkan sang penguasa kini terjawab. Apakah jurucakap Umno dapat akui kezaliman berdekad tersebut?

Kedua: kalangan yang bertanggungjawab daripada pimpinan politik, hakim dan peguam negara harus diumumkan. Mereka perlu menuntut maaf terbuka.

Ketiga: berkaitan dengan pengumuman PM tersebut, Dato Najib mengulas menafikan bahawa Kerajaan menuntut maaf. Ajaib! Apa muslihat Najib, dan mengapa harus berselindung lagi?

Keempat: menyusul kenyataan tersebut, apa pula kesudahannya dengan orang-orang yang dizalimi oleh sistem perundangan yang dijadikan alat?

Walhasil, meskipun PM Abdullah kelihatan mengakui kesilapan lalu, namun kenyataannya masih terbatas, tidak menuntut maaf dan seolah-olah memelihara penzalim dan tidak bersedia membela kalangan yang dizalimi.

Inshaallah, langkah susulan mampu dikendali kerajaan Pakatan Rakyat.

ANWAR IBRAHIM

Related Stories:
Zaid Ibrahim: What is so difficult about saying sorry? - PETALING JAYA: Apologise to the judges sacked in 1988, then move forward to repair and reform the judiciary, Datuk Zaid Ibrahim said. "If one says it was not a major problem, then there is no need for all this, but it was a serious problem. And what is so difficult about saying sorry?" the minister in the prime minister's department said. Zaid also said he disagreed with the DAP chairman and member of parliament for Bukit Gelugor, Karpal Singh, who said Dr Mahathir should be the one to apologise to the sacked judges.
"All these people want blood. I don't want that. I just want for us to move on, to restore confidence in the judiciary. The repair work has to be done; we need to look at reforms to mitigate pressure from outside forces and on the appointment and promotion of capable judges. Times have changed. We need to revitalise our institutions, judiciary, the courts, legal service, police and parliament," he said.

Full text of PM's speech - SPEECH BY DATUK SERI ABDULLAH AHMAD BADAWI, PRIME MINISTER OF MALAYSIA, AT THE MALAYSIAN BAR COUNCIL DINNER ON APRIL 17, 2008:"DELIVERING JUSTICE, RENEWING TRUST" An amazing night when many miracles took place - Pak Lah's humble tone reached out to them and helped make a bitter pill a little easier to swallow. He said he wouldn't apologise, and didn't but the effort and courage it took him to get to where he was last night spoke volumes what he could not speak baldly in words. As Zaid Ibrahim, the minister in the prime minister's office who had first mooted for a public apology from the government, put it: “(One) can say sorry in other ways.”

aan - I see in one single instant the different parts of speech – noun, verb and harf – all one as speech. I see the munsarif one with the ghayr munsarif, and mabni one with the mu’rab. And yet speech which includes all the different parts is not at all connected with any of them, and is independent of them all. Everything past or future is available in that instant.

Ex gratia payment not an apology, says DPM - CYBERJAYA, April 18 — The ex gratia payment announced by the government yesterday for six former judges involved in the 1988 judicial crisis is not a form of apology to them, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today. "The ex gratia payment is not tantamount to revisiting whatever that has been decided. It is not to be construed as any form of apology but this is our way of addressing some of their personal considerations and some of the personal experiences, hardship that they have gone through. That is all… so it is to be seen in that light. It should not be construed as anything beyond that," he told reporters after witnessing the signing of a joint-venture agreement between automakers Chery Automobile Co Ltd and Alado Corporation Sdn Bhd here.Najib: Think Before You Speak - Najib: Payment is no apology. Anwar: Justice Will Ultimately Prevail - Why no apology? Anwar will tell you why I'm ready to face royal commission: Dr M - In the latest tit-for-tat feud between Dr Mahathir Mohamad and top lawyer Param Cumaraswamy, the former premier said he was ready to face a royal commission over allegations of abuse of power.

Miracles: The sun is not to be blamed if one cannot see - Let the blessed ones enjoy their pleasure, the poor lover is happy with the pain he has.

pix courtesy of heliconia
Miracles are neither a part of walayat nor its condition; they are only a condition of nubuwat. However, miracles do happen at the hands of the saints, and this is common knowledge. There is hardly a wali who has not done a miracle.

But everyone knows that the greatest of the saints is not equal to the smallest of the sahabat. To look for miracles is to prove one’s inability to see the truth and follow it faithfully. The ones who benefit from the teachings of the prophets and saints are those who have greater ability to follow the truth than the ability to examine it theoretically.

Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (may God be pleased with him) did not demand arguments for accepting the Prophet’s claim, because he had power to follow the truth. On the contrary, Abu Jahl lacked this power, consequently he did not testify to the Prophet’s claim even though he saw many wonderful signs and mighty miracles.

It is regarding these unfortunate people that God says: ‘Even if they see all the signs they would not believe. They have become so obstinate that they come in order to argue with you, and say that this Qur’aan is nothing but the legends of the people of gone by.” [6:25]

The sun is not to be blamed if one cannot see; Let the blessed ones enjoy their pleasure, the poor lover is happy with the pain he has.

PM studying proposal to remodel ACA

I'm Studying Proposal To Remodel ACA, Says PM

KUALA LUMPUR, April 19 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said today he has received a proposal from the Anti-Corruption Agency (ACA) to turn it into an independent agency.

The prime minister said he would study the proposal thoroughly before making a decision.

"The proposal is with me. It was just given to me and I am looking into it before making a decision," he told reporters after opening the retreat for Barisan Nasional (BN) members of parliament.

He was asked to comment on a front-page report in the New Straits Times today that the ACA had proposed that it be allowed to operate along similar lines with Hong Kong's Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz, who confirmed the proposal, said the ACA had suggested to follow the operating style of the ICAC.

Since its inception in 1974, the ICAC had embraced a three-pronged approach of law enforcement, prevention and community education to fight corruption.

With the support of the government and the community, Hong Kong has now become one of the "cleanest" places in the world.

-- BERNAMA

Perak Sultan Calls For Measures To Check Looming Recession; Malay mindset a crucial factor in nations stability, says Raja Dr Nazrin

Perak Sultan Calls For Measures To Check Looming Recession

KUALA KANGSAR, April 19 (Bernama) -- The Sultan of Perak, Sultan Azlan Shah, Saturday urged leaders to initiate efforts to step up productivity and competitiveness, practise thrift, avoid wastage and optimise the use of resources at a time when the world is likely to face economic problems. He said petroleum prices were predicted to continue rising, and the costs of production, foodstuff and essential goods would go up in tandem.

"A high rate of inflation will reduce consumers' purchasing power. An economic contraction may take place. The world may feel the brunt of a vicious cycle which may result in difficulties," he said in his address in conjunction with his 80th birthday and investiture at the Istana Iskandariah, here. At the ceremony, held at the Balairong Seri (Throne Room), the sultan presented awards and medals to 46 people who were conferred the honours. Bernama TV provided live coverage of the ceremony, carried over the Astro 502 channel.

Sultan Azlan Shah said the state government should continue with development policies which can generate economic growth, as provided for in the Ninth Malaysia Plan and the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) programme.

He said the new state government must continue with more intensive development efforts and administer the state with fairness, with the people accorded just treatment regardless of race, religion, gender and political ideology.

He said the interests of the state and people should override party politics.

"The political campaigns have ended. Now is the time to work. There is a vast difference between campaigning and working. All the promises must be fulfilled. All the pledges must be executed.

"All thoughts, energy and resources must be focused on developing the state, particularly in improving infrastructure, drawing investment, bridging the income gap, providing housing for the low-income group, eradicating poverty, developing human capital and creating jobs," he said.
Sultan Azlan Shah also said that the institution of the monarchy should exercise prudence in interpreting the essence of the concepts of constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy, and these should not be turned into instruments to legitimise the means if the matter advised is altogether contrary to the law and violates the principles of the constitution.

He said that though the Ruler acts on the advice of the head of government, the Ruler should not give his consent if the advice so given does not reflect justice.

In accordance with the spirit of the constitutional monarchy, a Ruler has the role to convey advice and opinion, offer encouragement and give reminders or make criticisms, he said.

"A Ruler must rightly use prudence and wisdom in giving his consent, particularly in matters related to the interests of the state and people," he said.

-- BERNAMA

Daulat Tuanku!
Salutations & Heartiest Congratulations DYMM Paduka Seri Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Yussuf Izzuddin Shah Ghafarullah, Sultan, YDP dan Raja Pemerintah Negeri Perak Darul Ridzuan dan Jajahan Takluknya, On the Occasion of His Royal Highness’ 80th Birthday on April 19, 2008, 12 Rabiul-akhir 1429 Hijrah.
Semoga Allah Memberkati Pemerintahan Berjiwa Rakyat DYMM Tuanku.
With Utmost Sincerity and Best Wishes from Banghuris, Ghutghut, & Co.

Malay mindset a crucial factor in nations stability, says Raja Dr Nazrin

BERNAMA
KUALA KANGSAR, Sat.:
Racial prejudice in the country can be erased if the Malay mindset is stable and comfortable towards forging harmony, the Raja Muda of Perak, Raja Dr Nazrin Shah, said today.
He said a stable mindset of the Malays was crucial as it was a pre-condition to the nation’s stability.

“Islam, Malay Rulers’ sovereignty, Malay language and the special status of the Malays are among matters that never slipped from the attention of the Malay Rulers.

“The Malay Rulers understand very well that the country’s political stability largely depends on the preparedness of the Malay mindset to face changes,” he said in his address in conjunction with the 80th birthday of the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Azlan Shah, at Istana Iskandariah.

Present were Sultan Azlan Shah, Raja Permaisuri Perak Tuanku Bainun, Raja Dihilir Perak Raja Jaffar Raja Muda Musa, Raja Puan Muda Raja Normahani Raja Shahar Shah, members of the Perak royal household, Menteri Besar Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin, state executive councillors, heads of government departments and agencies.
Raja Dr Nazrin said since the first “Durbar” (rulers’ conference) was held in Kuala Kangsar on July 13, 1897, the Malay Rulers had constantly given attention and raised Malays’ interests and Islam.

Hence, with the consent of the Sultan of Perak, Raja Dr Nazrin said he would make efforts to ensure the thinking and perception of the Malays would not lead them into being in a state of anxiety and unstable.

He said the Malay Rulers were the people’s resort to seek shelter and protection when they felt that their status as the indigenous race was undermined.

“This is an honour and confidence in the Rulers when the people are worried in the face of a crisis,” he said.

Raja Dr Nazrin wants the people to accept the reality that Malaysia had a plural society and efforts to forge unity and to erase any form of negative racial prejudice was an important agenda and a pre-requisite to the country’s political stability besides being a requirement to guarantee public peace.

“The Malaysian soil must practise fairness and equality that forbids discrimination and negative racist actions. The spirit of co-existence, loyalty and patriotism must be nurtured and practised to build a strong and united Malaysian race to jointly develop an independent and sovereign nation.

Raja Dr Nazrin also said he would ensure religious institutions under the purview of the Sultan of Perak such as mosques, suraus and religious education institutions functioned as tools of unity and would not allow them to be used as a “political platform” which could lead to disunity.

Raja Dr Nazrin said the Muslim community would lose out if they continued to bicker and squabble among themselves as Islam stressed on unity, peace, friendship and goodwill.

“Today’s Muslims are not a strong race, be they in the world or in this country. Muslims cannot be split into small factions because eventually they will become a weaker race.

“They should not be too obsessed with bickerings and squabbles. Muslims must be wise and have the wisdom to distinguish between precious stones and glass,” he said.

They can emerge into a strong race if they were forgiving, prepared to give and take, cooperate among themselves and be friendly which would lead to greater understanding and unity, he added.

He said a government given the powers to rule a state and the people was a big mandate from God.

“Fully aware of this mandate, the state government will discharge its duties and responsibilities in line with God’s wish, upholding the truth, refraining from sinful acts and being a caring state,” he said.

Nizar said the state government would improve the socio-economic status of the people, maintain political stability, sovereignty of the royal institution, customs and traditions and the religion.

“The state government under my leadership needs the guidance and wisdom from Paduka Seri Tuanku to ensure a progressive and trustworthy administration. God willing, the present government will not disappoint the aspirations of the Perak people who have made the changes,” he said.

“I will always support the institution of constitutional monarchy in this state which is part of history and system of governance in the Malay soil.

“I accept and is aware that the constitutional monarchy will remain relevant and play a major role at all times in line with the state constitution which states that the power of governance is the right of the sultan,” he added.

Nizar is among 773 recipients of state awards in conjunction with the sultan’s birthday. He has been conferred the Darjah Seri Paduka Mahkota Perak (SPMP) which carries the title of “Datuk Seri”.

Also receiving the award are Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Ong Ka Chuan, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Mohd Annuar Zaini.

source: Bernama via NST - http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Saturday/NewsBreak/20080419120216/Article/index_html

An amazing night when many miracles took place

An amazing night when many miracles took place

pix: Dr Wan Azizah greeting Abdullah Badawi at the Bar Council annual dinner Thursday night. — The Malaysian Insider picture by Choo Choy May
By Debra Chong
KUALA LUMPUR, April 18 — It was an amazing night at the Bar Council dinner at the JW Marriott Hotel in Jalan Bukit Bintang last night. Many miracles happened.
To start off, it was quite a sight to see members of the Barisan Nasional and the Pakatan Rakyat seated at the same tables without kicking up a fuss.
Namely, the VVIP table where Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi sat together with political arch-nemesis Wan Azizah Ismail and former Lord President Tun Salleh Abas.
One had grown too used to see one or the other lunging for the jugular in public (with the exclusion of Salleh), so much so that seeing them actually being amiable to each other and making small talk was disconcerting.
Then there was the Prime Minister's announcement that he was firmly pushing forward with setting up a Judicial Appointments Commission (JDA) despite the strong objections from his own BN fraternity. It was greeted with thunderous applause and hoots of approval from the 600-strong legal eagles.
And finally, his recognition and acknowledgement of the government's role that led to the tragic removal of Salleh, Datuk Seri George Seah and Tan Sri Wan Suleiman Pawanteh from office in 1988 and which plunged the judiciary into an age of darkness, so to speak.
Pak Lah's humble tone reached out to them and helped make a bitter pill a little easier to swallow. He said he wouldn't apologise, and didn't but the effort and courage it took him to get to where he was last night spoke volumes what he could not speak baldly in words.
As Zaid Ibrahim, the minister in the prime minister's office who had first mooted for a public apology from the government, put it: “(One) can say sorry in other ways.”
Better late than never?
The power of that love moved the minds and hearts of the people implicated directly or indirectly, those who suffered the brunt of injustice and those who were collateral damage — the families of the 3 judges rudely removed from office and the other 3 whose good names were besmirched, even though they were later reinstated. Full Story

Ex gratia payment not an apology, says DPM
CYBERJAYA, April 18 — The ex gratia payment announced by the government yesterday for six former judges involved in the 1988 judicial crisis is not a form of apology to them, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today.
"The ex gratia payment is not tantamount to revisiting whatever that has been decided. It is not to be construed as any form of apology but this is our way of addressing some of their personal considerations and some of the personal experiences, hardship that they have gone through.
"That is all… so it is to be seen in that light. It should not be construed as anything beyond that," he told reporters after witnessing the signing of a joint-venture agreement between automakers Chery Automobile Co Ltd and Alado Corporation Sdn Bhd here.
The six former judges are Tun Salleh Abas, Tan Sri Azmi Kamaruddin, Tan Sri Wan Hamzah Mohamed, Datuk George Seah, and the late Tan Sri Eusoffe Abdoolcader and Tan Sri Wan Suleiman Pawanteh,
Yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced that the government, apart from making the ex gratia payment to the six former judges, would set up a Judicial Appointments Commission to nominate, appoint and promote judges in a transparent and representative manner.
On the members of the commission, Najib said it would be discussed at a later stage.
"I think it (setting up of the commission) is a significant step forward because the reform or changes announced by the prime minister yesterday means that the government is aware that we do need to ensure that our judiciary has the highest reputation and that the judiciary system in the country can perform in terms of deciding on cases in an expeditious manner and that judges of the highest integrity and capability are appointed at the various levels.
"The formation of this commission, it must be emphasised, is only in an advisory capacity. The final authority still lies with the prime minister to make the formal recommendation to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Conference of Rulers.
"It is a very significant step forward because it means that the prime minister will have the benefit of a group of very learned, eminent people to give their opinions on the suitability of appointing personalities into the various positions in the judiciary," said Najib. Full Story