Get-Out-The-Voters exercise in Bayan Baru a success

Dato’ Mustafa Kamal, Director of Elections for PKR Pulau Pinang successfully gathered about 500 election workers at several meeting points all around the Bayan Baru (P52) parliamentary district last Sunday. Dato’ Mansor Othman, the Deputy Chief Minister addressed the 300-strong crowd at its main site at Dewan JKKK Taman Pekaka, Batu Uban, together with several other personalities like YB Sim Tze Tzin (ADUN Pantai Jerejak), Dato’ Malik Kassim (ADUN Batu Maung) and YB Raveen (ADUN Batu Uban).

The air of excitement was further enhanced when a motorcycle convoy of about 30 bikes arrived at Taman Pekaka along with a decorated trailer behind blasting the Parti Keadilan song. After a short briefing, all volunteers participated in a house-to-house exercise to meet the voters in the three state constituencies in Bayan Baru.

When the crowd were asked: “Are you ready for Pakatan Rakyat?” the crowd replied in a very spirited ‘Yes!’

The overall response from the ground was very encouraging with all the election directors in Bayan Baru providing similar reports. Bayan Baru aims to secure all three state seats and one parliamentary seat under Keadilan, a feat which was achieved in 2008 but tainted by an MP who decided to become an independent in 2010.

“I think we have a very strong and coordinated force with only one goal, which is to maintain the results of 2008,” said Tan Seng Keat, the Election Director for Bayan Baru.

65% support in Batu Maung (N37)

About 100-odd people thronged parts of Batu Maung to survey the area and give out goodie bags which includes informational leaflets and newsletters, a free note pad and a magazine.

“We are confident to have a minimum of 65% support from our voters,” claimed Azrizal Tahir, the Election Director of Batu Maung.

The incumbent, Dato’ Malik Kassim won the Batu Maung seat in 2008 with a majority of 3169 votes against Norlan Dahalan from UMNO. However, according to reports there are more than 9000 new voters registered for the upcoming elections.

As the only Malay majority area in Bayan Baru, the rejection of UMNO is obvious as many of the programmes implemented in the area are all well received by the community.

Chinese voters not a problem in Batu Uban (N35)

The Batu Uban team targeted 10 blocks of flats around the Taman Bukit Jambul area to get feedback from the ground. At the same time another team led by YB Raveen made their rounds in the constituency to greet the people.

“Many people kept on asking about the candidate,” mentioned Cheah Kah Peng, the Strategic Director for Keadilan Penang.

“It should be taken into consideration that informed people cast their votes based on the choice of candidate fielded,” he added.

Cheah Peng Guan, the Election Director for Batu Uban is certain that the Chinese votes were ‘not a problem’ in the area. Batu Uban is a Chinese majority area with about 60% Chinese voters.

YB Raveen, the current Keadilan state assemblyman had garnered a majority of 611 votes in 2008 ousting local favourite Goh Kheng Sneah from Gerakan who is expected to contest again in GE-13.

All set in Pantai Jerejak (N36)

More than 100 volunteers attended the meet-the-voters exercise at Pantai Jerejak. Election Director Idriss Hassan is pleased with the turnout.

Similarly, he echoes a favourable 60% secured vote from Pantai Jerejak.

YB Sim Tze Tzin won the Pantai Jerejak in 2008 with a majority of 1258 votes against Wong Mun Hoe from Gerakan.

YB Sim and municipal councillor Hj. Rashid bin Hasnon recently co-organized a Chinese New Year open house in Pantai Jerejak which included a ‘Chinese-Muslim’ presentation among its activities.

“The momentum of Keadilan Bayan Baru is very good. Our machinery is ready for GE-13,” Idriss said.

Ini kalilah.

Signs of an ailing earth - Climate Changes

Much has been said about climate changes in the last few decades with not much being done to address the escalating problem. This is especially unfortunate when the environmentalists are up against corporate giants who silence the policy makers into submission with their huge funding by reaping profits from nature.

Climate changes is a term used to acknowledge weather patterns over a period of time and is commonly linked to environmental changes including global warming and the greenhouse effect, significant flooding and even storms – the most recent being Superstorm Sandy.

Jeffrey Sachs, a renowned economist mentioned in his address during a recent visit to Penang that the term ‘climate change’ was not even uttered once by the re-elected President of the United States during his nationwide election campaign. This shows the severity and the clout of apprehensiveness in acknowledging what deserves to be approached in a more aggressive manner to save the environment. However, an agency known as EPA or The United States Environmental Protection Agency collects data and keeps track of greenhouse gas emission to assist the United States government in addressing the challenges of climate changes.

In Malaysia, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment together with the Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI) undertakes the task to study climate changes in compliance with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNCCC). The 18^th UNCCC was held in Doha, Qatar this year from 26 November till 8 December, and had a participation of 195 nations.

The most outstanding outcome from this convention was that a historic pledge was made by the rich nations to fund the developing countries to “repair the loss and damage incurred”. The Guardian reported that the phrase “loss and damage from climate change” was the first time developing countries received such acknowledgement and assurances and that it has been enshrined in an international legal document.

According to a report by a Malaysian National Agency NAHRIM (2006), there is a possibility of a 2% temperature rise in Peninsular Malaysia between 2041 and 2050. The implication of the temperature rise relates to the water level which in turn affects the crop yields and national food security. As an agricultural based country, this will result in economic loss which then translates into infrastructure problems leading to repairs and reconstructions.

Ir. Jaseni, the CEO of Perbadanan Bekalan Air Pulau Pinang (PBAPP), was quoted as saying that rainwater collection was 2000mm ten years back but has dropped to 1400mm in 2012. This drastic drop in rainfall is yet another proof of global warming. A report submitted by the Malaysian Government to the UNCCC in 2007 states that the Sea Water Level was 1.3 mm/year (1986-2006, Tanjung Piai, Johor) and is expected to rise another 0.5m or 10mm/year by 2050 in its worst case scenario.

The rainfall collection recorded at Bukit Bendera at gauge no. 6 and gauge no. 8 registered significant drops of between 65% - 70% between 2002 and 2012. In 2002, 1917mm/year and 1988mm/year were documented respectively while the latest report for 2012 indicated only 715mm/year and 673mm/year.

Notably there are several local agencies and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) that are actively engaging the government for policy changes and educating the general public on the environment. Among which are Aliran, Water Watch Penang (WWP), Malaysian Nature Society and Sahabat Alam Malaysia.

Prof. Dr. Chan Ngai Weng, President of WWP opines that women are the main water managers both at home and in the office as they wield tremendous influence over the ways families and businesses use and conserve water.

Although there has not been any proven links between fossil fuel consumption and climate changes, the detrimental patterns are not easy to ignore. As fuel consumption rises, so does the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere which naturally contributes to the global warming. With the shift in temperature and air pressure, it does not take much to connect the dots to the increasing natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes and tsunamis. The Malaysian Government recommends renewable energy solutions, biofuel utilization, reforestation programmes and studies to be made on carbon emissions.

At this stage, the policies which have been put in place thus far needs to be effectively implemented on all levels – from the government agencies, businesses to the individual households. The key to building resilience to the long-term climate impact and future climate variety is sustainable development which gives importance to an in-depth regard towards conservation and workable solutions. Each of us must do our part so that proactive measures can be taken to lessen the effects of global warming.

http://www.pgc.com.my/index.php/2013-01-14-03-51-48/signs-of-an-ailing-earth-climate-changes-by-carolyn-khor

Let’s grow plants together

Original Article in Mandarin by: Teng Kok Liang

Green scenery always makes people feel refreshed. It is wrong to think that living in high rise building prohibits us from keeping plants. On the contrary, there are many indoor plants that we can grow to keep our environment green and beautiful.

Penang Green Expo 2012 which was held in September 2012 displayed a variety of indoor plants. The Expo also provided an opportunity to learn more about choosing the correct species for planting and decorating the home.

For clean and fresh air, the Cactus, Chlorophytum or Scindaprus tops the list as natural purifiers. These plants should not be underestimated as they can help lower the hazardous substances released from electronic appliances and at the same time help purify air pollutants.

An alternate choice is the Sansevieria and Boston fern. These plants contain natural plant anion that absorbs Benzene and Trichloroethylene from the air to restore good air quality.

For spacious homes, Yellow Palm and Corn Plant is a good choice to help remove hazardous substances and impurities from the air.

The above recommended plants need a combination of the right flowerpot, the right soil and the right fertilizers to achieve the best environmental results. Using correct biodegradable flowerpot, the right soil and non-chemical fertilizer with the certification of Baba Inside makes the environmental friendly home garden authentic.

We also need to identify the right place for the right plant at home. For example, Sansevieria is suitable to be planted in the toilet as it needs little sunlight. The leaves can absorb moisture and odor from the air as well as act as a natural deodorant.  However, moving the plant for direct sunlight at regular intervals makes the plant robust.

Some plants may also be placed in the balcony, roof top or corridor. To avoid accidents, make sure the plants are not blocking the passage and can withstand strong wind.

Plants are not only good to look at - it also provides us a cleaner and greener environment. The Penang State Government has made a lot of effort in promoting green projects in the state and Penang Local Government Committee Chairman Chow Kon Yeow has written a reply to the State Assembly stated that in year 2011, the Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) has planted a total of 4313 trees in the Island, Province Wellesley Municipal Council (MPSP) has planted a total of 8734 trees in Province Wellesley and the Penang State Forestry Department has planted a total of 8988 trees in the state.

The Penang State Forestry Department also provided 5770 tree saplings to government departments, private companies, JKKKs and NGOs to encourage trees planting and promote greener environment.

The authorities at Municipal Council of Penang (MPPP) spearheaded a Greening Project at three locations. Since 2010, a total of 150 trees were planted along the divider of Carnarvon Street; another 101 trees along the 550meter long divider in Weld Quay in year 2011; and this year, 280 trees were planted along the 1.4km divider in Dato Keramat Road.

Those who travel along Jalan Masjid Negeri, Jalan Scotland and Jalan Utama enjoy the cooling effects of the shady trees. We need to thank our forefathers who had the foresight to preserve these century-old trees. Penang, the Pearl of the Orient is not only proud of her heritage buildings in George Town but also these trees which have witnessed the progress of this city in leading the way towards a cleaner, greener and environmental friendly Malaysia.

We can improve our environment from home. Let’s grow plants together!

*BABA Inside is a guarantee standard for organic vegetables, ornamental plants, organic fertilizer, soil, biodegradable flowerpots and other green products. This certification meets the standard of production and identification of organic products.

For details: www.baba.com.my

Moving Forward with GBI

Green Building Index

In keeping pace with the demands of modern living, designers and builders equally reflect their concerns about the environment through incorporating a voluntary green rating scheme which is managed by a board of registered architects and engineers. The Green Building Index has a total of 290 buildings as at June 2012 and nine townships registered for certification throughout the nation. 

According to the Northern Chapter President of Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM) and also Penang Green Council committee member, Mr. Lawrence Lim, Penang currently has 30 buildings applying for certification while 10 buildings are on provisionary certification.

“Penang was the first state in Malaysia to embrace the Green Building Index,” he added. Among the more notable developments that have applied for the GBI are The Light Project by IJM, The Setia Greens by SP Setia, Brooke Residence and Penaga Hotel, a heritage hotel in George Town. 

“Despite the premium, all terrace houses under the Setia Green project are sold,” said Khoo Teik Chong indicating an increased price of about 10% - 15% as compared to non-GBI certified buildings.

The terrace houses were sold between RM900,000 and RM1 million when it was first launched by SP Setia two years ago and is now worth about RM1.6 million. 

Khoo, the General Manager of SP Setia also mentioned that the sPICE project in Bayan Baru is GBI compliant as well. 

Architectural designs that are ecologically friendly maximizes the use of natural ventilation and natural lighting to save on electricity usage while minimizing environmental impacts. Features include fittings that save energy and resources like cool roofing, solar energy panels, water efficiency gadgets, rainwater harvesting devices and proper waste management.

There are four categories of classification for the GBI – Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. These ratings depend on the number of points awarded to the building after inspection. Developers are also encouraged to build green buildings. 

 “We encourage GBI by giving incentives. But, to achieve GBI needs additional costs, so developers target commercial buildings mostly,” replied Wong Hon Wai, the State Housing Exco through a text reply when asked if developers of Low-Cost and Low-Medium Cost flats would be required to obtain GBI certifications in the future. 

However, IJM General Manager, Toh Chin Leong says that the incentives given to their counterparts in Singapore are much more attractive as direct rebates are given to the developers for using green building materials like reconstructed wood, low VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and specially prepared glass. 

Paying to Save the Environment 

Toh also emphasized the need to step-up efforts to educate the public on saving the environment. 

“Building green buildings are one thing, but maintaining them is another,” he said, referring to landed property owners who eventually opt to cement their compound for more parking space. He also says that the government could also make it a policy to make Green Buildings compulsory for all future buildings.

Justifying the need to pay to save the environment is contradictory. However, green is the new buzzword for this century. It serves as a reminder for us to take care of our surroundings and to live as harmoniously as possible with the environment. Co-existence and balance between nature and development is our only way to sustainable living. 

Article Published in Penang Green Council webpage.

Press Statement by Chow Kon Yeow on Cheah Chin Lee

YB Chow Kon Yeow
Level 52 Komtar
10503 Penang
04-2619888
chowkonyeow@penang.gov.my

PRESS STATEMENT
11 October, 2012

In support of the family of the late Cheah Chin Lee (died in police custody):
Police Yet to Inform Courts of Chin Lee’s Death
¬¬
It is now close to two months after Cheah Chin Lee died in the Police’s custody. I am here today with Chin Lee’s family members who are still waiting for answers. Sadly, despite numerous promises made to the family, the Police have been unable to show any progress for the family to have faith in their efforts.

The family’s lawyer wrote to the Magistrates Court of George Town, Penang to enquire about initiating inquest proceedings and received a reply from the court registrar on 25 September, 2012 saying that the courts have not received a Sudden Death Report regarding Chin Lee’s death on 13 August.

Section 334 of the Criminal Procedure Code requires, “when any person dies while in the custody of the police or in a mental hospital or prison, the officer who had the custody of that person or was in charge of that mental hospital or prison, as the case may be, shall immediately give intimation of such death to the nearest Magistrate, and the Magistrate or some other Magistrate shall, in the case of a death in the custody of the police, and in other cases may, if he thinks expedient, hold an inquiry into the cause of death.”

I would like to emphasise that it is the statutory duty of the Police to inform the courts of a death of a person in their care and that this is required to be done immediately. It is now close to two months since Chin Lee’s death and I would like to ask if the Police are deliberately delaying the matter. What excuses do the police have for the family this time? If the police cannot even do something as simple as following a statutory procedure, how can the police claim to be conducting an “independent” investigation over the death of a person who was in their care?

I hereby urge the Penang CPO Abd Rahim Hanafi to take responsibility and explain the delay over this matter. I do not expect more empty promises to be made, but instead in the soonest possible submit the Sudden Death Report to the Magistrates Court as required under S334 of the CPC. The Police must not be seen to hinder the family’s quest for the truth behind Chin Lee’s death.



Change | For a Better Malaysia.
Chow Kon Yeow
Penang State DAP Chairperson

KENYATAAN AKHBAR KMPP Isu Tanah Tang Hak Ju

KENYATAAN AKHBAR KONGRES MELAYU PULAU PINANG, (KMPP)

Tarikh: 27hb Januari 2012

Kepada: PIHAK MEDIA TEMPATAN.

Tajuk: ISU TANAH TANG HAK JU, “Barisan Nasional Berhutang kepada Rakyat
Pulau Pinang”.


Kenyataan akhbar ini dibuat oleh pihak KMPP adalah mewakili rakyat Pulau Pinang yang terpaksa menanggung wang pampasan RM500,000.00 akibat daripada kecuaian sehingga menyebabkan penipuan keatas seorang individu yang dikenali sebagai Tan Hak Ju. Keputusan oleh Mahkamah Rayuan pada 10/1/2012 tersebut jelas bahawa Kerajaan Negeri sekarang terpaksa menanggung liabiliti yang ditinggalkan oleh kerajaan terdahulu (Barisan Nasional) dimana rakyat negeri ini harus membuka mata bagaimana rakusnya dan licik pentadbiran Kerajaan sebelum ini sehingga mengheret rakyat negeri ini bersama menyelami kemelut kes ini.

Walaupun pampasan telah dikurangkan dan sekalipun ianya bernilai RM1.00, ianya tetap wang rakyat yang menjadi pembayar cukai. Janganlah pula Pimpinan Barisan Nasional negeri ini cuba berlakon alim sekalipun jumlah asal pampasan tersebut adalah RM40 juta kini telah dikurangkan kepada RM500,000.00, maka kesalahan lampau telah diampuni. Rakyat negeri ini tidaklah semudah itu untuk diperbodohkan atas permainan silap mata politik. Perlu diingatkan bahawa kes tersebut masih ada ruang rayuan. Berkemungkinan Tan Hak Ju akan mengemukakan rayuannya dan terdapat kemungkinan jumlah pampasan berkenaan akan ditambah namun masih menjadi teka-teki.

Dalam senario berkenaan berasaskan kepada fakta kes ada kemungkinan sekiranya mantan Ketua Menteri dan Timbalan Ketua Menteri ketika itu dapat dengan beraninya tampil memberi respon dihadapan Jawatankuasa Siasatan, kemungkinan soal penyelewengan dan penipuan menerusi scandal yang amat kontrovesi itu tidak perlu berpanjangan. Persoalannya kenapa kedua-dua saksi penting berkenaan tidak berani tampil untuk memberi respon kepada Jawatankuasa Siasatan tersebut? Bak kata perpatah “Berani kerana benar dan Takut kerana salah”. Dalam konteks ini rakyat negeri ini perlu membuka mata dan berfikir secara rasional terhadap insiden berkenaan.

Pihak KMPP percaya terdapat transaksi keatas ikatan dokumen tanah berkenaan oleh Pegawai Kerajaan yang bersekongkol dengan pemimpin dalam Kerajaan Barisan Nasional dahulu serta telah menyalahgunakan kedudukan mereka. Maka situasi sebegitu dilihat sebagai amat memalukan. Justeru itu pihak KMPP mendesak agar satu siasatan dapat dijalankan oleh Kerajaan Negeri dan seterusnya mengenakan tindakan terhadap Pegawai Kerajaan terbabit tanpa memilih bulu. Tindakan tersebut amat perlu bagi dijadikan tauladan supaya episod yang sama tidak akan berulang lagi.



Oleh yang demikian, pihak KMPP berharap pemimpin Barisan Nasional Negeri Pulau Pinang terutama sekali Pengerusi Jawatankuasa BN Pulau Pinang iaitu Dato Dr. Teng Hock Nan bertanggungjawab sepenuhnya kepada seluruh rakyat negeri ini keatas pembayaran wang pampasan tersebut. Isu tersebut sudah diputuskan oleh mahkamah bahawa “Subject Matter” merupakan satu kecuaian dan penipuan yang telah ditinggalkan oleh Kerajaan terdahulu. Dalam kenyataan yang tanpa prasangka ini jangan cuba sama sekali untuk mengheret rakyat negeri ini bermain politik licik bagi tujuan menutup kesilapan sendiri.

Pandangan ikhlas pihak KMPP adalah lebih berfaedah bagi pemimpin Barisan Nasional dinegeri ini mencari formula bagaimana untuk meningkatkan populariti mereka demi bagi meraih sokongan rakyat yang semakin terhakis daripada mencari kesilapan orang lain dimana akhirnya memakan diri sendiri. Hentikanlah sandiwara politik demi bagi mengemis simpati daripada rakyat negeri ini. Hero yang sudah kecundang dalam istilah politik hanya dikenang sebagai artifak sejarah sahaja. Apa yang rakyat perlukan adalah sebuah Kerajaan yang dapat menjamin kebajikan mereka dan bukannya mendatangkan liabiliti kepada mereka.


Sekian, terima kasih.

KONGRES MELAYU PULAU PINANG



………………………………
RAHMAD BIN ISAHAK
PRESIDEN KMPP,
(H/P No: 019-472 8509)

Press Statement: Cubaan Membunuh Presiden KEADILAN

Cubaan Membunuh Presiden KEADILAN
8 Januari 2012


Angkatan Muda KEADILAN Pulau Pinang (AMKPP) hari ini mengecam sekeras-kerasnya terhadap insiden cubaan membunuh Presiden KEADILAN, Dato’ Seri Dr. Wan Azizah Wan Ismail pada malam tadi. Serangan itu walaupun dapat dielak oleh Saudara Fayyad al-Bakri, pengawal keselamatan Keluarga Anwar Ibrahim, ia tetap diklasifikasikan sebagai cubaan membunuh! Pihak Hospital Seberang Jaya telah mengesahkan serangan itu berpunca dari tusukan jarum yang menyuntik kandungan morfein berlebihan ke tapak tangan Fayyad. Suntikan beracun itu telah menghentikan nadi Fayyad buat seketika. Allah Maha Besar, terkini setakat 10.00 pagi, Fayyad sudah sedar dan dilaporkan stabil.

AMKPP memandang serius akan isu ini, kerana cubaan membunuh Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim dan keluarganya seakan sudah diatur sekian lama sejak penglibatan Anwar Ibrahim di dalam politik tanahair. Kita masih ingat akan insiden helikopter terhempas pada tahun 1994, rempuhan ala gestapo di rumah Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim semasa Reformasi 1998, keracunan arsenik di penjara, kereta Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yang dirosakkan breknya, serangan tembakan kanister gas CS semasa BERSIH 2 di KL Sentral dan terkini, serangan jarum beracun di Galeri Pejuang Cherok To’Kun. Kesemua serangan ini tidak lain, adalah ditujukan terus kepada Anwar dan isterinya, Wan Azizah.

Sebagai respon segera, AMKPP telah membuat laporan polis terhadap insiden ini sejurus selepas serangan malam tadi. Pihak kami berterima kasih dengan pihak polis yang segera menghantar pasukan penyiasat dari Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah Negeri dan kami berharap pihak polis dapat menjejak pelaku ini segera dan menghadapkannya ke muka pengadilan. Pihak kami juga telah mengarahkan Unit Ehsan Pulau Pinang dan Unit Keselamatan Parlimen Permatang Pauh (UKP) untuk mengiringi pemergian pulang dan memastikan keselamatan Dato’ Seri Wan Azizah kembali ke Kuala Lumpur.

Akhir sekali, AMKPP ingin mengisytiharkan kepada semua musuh-musuh Anwar Ibrahim dan keluarganya, jika kamu memusuhi Anwar Ibrahim dan keluarganya, bermakna kamu memusuhi kami dan seluruh rakyat! Kami akan menjadi benteng dan barisan pertahanan terakhir untuk keluarga Anwar Ibrahim dari perbuatan pengecut dan bacul kalian. Kepada UMNO dan sekutu-sekutunya, jangan ambil sikap lepas tangan. Jika kami dapati ada hubungan dan perkaitan antara insiden ini dengan kamu, tunggulah ombak revolusi yang akan membadai keangkuhan kalian!


SYED MIKAEL RIZAL AIDID
Setiausaha,
Angkatan Muda KEADILAN Pulau Pinang (AMKPP)

Good Food at the Malabar Restaurant

Boxing Day was just going to be another usual day if not for an unscheduled visit with a friend to a newly opened restaurant at Cintra Street – The Malabar Restaurant, Dine and Chill. Occupying two of the corner lots of the heritage building in Georgetown, the new kid on the block looks chic with its designer look and matching colours.

The wallpaper and overall interior decoration adds to its charm and ambience of a comfortable dining experience. The original timber which can now only be found in heritage buildings can still be seen in parts where they are not covered by the lowered plaster ceiling.

“We want to make people feel at home. One part of the shop is for dining and the other is the bar,” says the petite and pretty restaurateur Tracy Yeoh, adding that she designed the shop herself.

Eager to impress us with their food, we were first served with a starter – Lobak, the chef’s personal favourite. This was followed by the Braised Garlic Pepper Pork Ribs, Rendang Chicken, Otak-otak, Malabar Belanda Eggs and Fried Kangkung.

The Lobak was absolutely delicious with just about the correct balance of everything – its deep-fried skin browned to a golden perfection wrapped around the juicy and chunky seasoned meat. A word of caution though - this dish is non-halal.

Although the Otak-otak was not on the menu, we were fortunate enough to try it and this dish too was amazing. Presented in a small bowl, and not the usual banana leaf, the aromatic spices, turmeric and lemon grass simply makes the steamed egg and fish literally melt in the mouth, leaving a very nice aftertaste. The texture of the steamed egg is just right – smooth and firm, and not at all soggy or watery.

The Malabar Belanda Eggs really needs to be mentioned here as well. These are sunny-side up eggs topped with garnishing and dipped in tamarind sauce. The egg yolk and tamarind sauce are complimentary and is a must-try.

The rest of the dishes were just as great and delicious. A good cook cooks well no matter what she cooks, and for that matter, the cooks are none other than Tracy’s mum and aunt. These two ladies are skilled in cooking Thai and Nyonya food, and some of the dishes in the menu are their own original recipes.

“The idea of starting a restaurant came about jokingly as we thought that our mum and aunt were great cooks and wanted to share their cooking with everyone else.

“Then, while we were in this area (Cintra Street) and saw that the ‘for rent’ signage board was up, we just thought to ourselves, why not?” confessed Jimmy Yeoh, Tracy’s brother. So that was how The Malabar Restaurant was conceived.

The name of the restaurant is borrowed from Kampung Malabar, originally an Indian Settlement within the vicinity that existed from the 19th century until the turn of 20th century. It was a time when trade flourished in this region and traders from Kerala especially flocked here to find their fortune. Later, during Japanese Occupation, Cintra Street became the red-light district filled with brothels and hotels.

Currently, renovations are on-going to have a garden setting on the second floor.

Armed with such deep-rooted history, culturally rich background and with sinfully delicious food, The Malabar Restaurant is a recommended place to visit. Prices are fair although parking may be a bit of a problem.

The Malabar Restaurant is located at 26 & 28 Cintra Street and opens from 11am – 10pm daily except for Tuesdays. For more information please call: 04-2638266.

S.Raveentharan helps poor students with RM100 vouchers

100 children were presented with RM100 vouchers last Sunday at BJ Kompleks to help families prepare for the new school term. S.Raveentharan had set aside RM10,000 from his allocation to lighten the burden of parents with school-going children.

This is a yearly event that has drawn much support from the community. All recipients were from the Batu Uban constituency.

The vouchers were obtained from the Kamdar store in BJ Kompleks. Families with the voucher may exchange the voucher for apparels needed for school.Apart from the 100 children, some 40 other children also received RM100 vouchers from Pusat Urus Zakat, which is also meant for school uniforms.

“This is the people’s money. It is only right that we redistribute it to deserving parties and will continue to do so in the future,” said S.Raveentharan, the state assemblyman for Batu Uban.

S.Raveentharan thanked the management of Bukit Jambul Kompleks and Kamdar for their cooperation in helping making the event a success.

“Bukit Jambul Kompleks and Kamdar are both in Batu Uban and it is easy for the parents to come here to do their shopping,” he added.

After the event was over, a special branch officer requested the contact number of the manager in Kamdar, to which S.Raveentharan stepped up to question if there was any problem in giving out welfare to the public. The officer replied in the negative but stayed around until everybody went back.

Press Statement by Raveentharan ADUN Batu Uban on the Flash Flood and Landslide near Bukit Gambir

Press Statement by Raveentharan ADUN Batu Uban on the Flash Flood and Landslide near Bukit Gambir

Date: 19 October 2011

The approval of plan by the previous regime is very much suspicious because the developer can build a 3 feet wall and divert the river flow into a drain. This is tantamount to going against nature.

After 40 minutes of downpour, a beautiful but life threatening waterfall appears from nowhere and this has also caused erosion of the rocks and soil.

I think the only solution to arrest this problem is to provide several catchment areas and to build retention ponds at the top of Bukit Gambir. I have already proposed and expressed to the Dewan Undangan Negeri the need to turn this area into an ecopark to preserve the environment as a water catchment area and to build mini reservoir to stop the sudden flash floods. This will also help alleviate the flash flood problems at Jalan Satu and Jalan Enam at Changkat Minden and Sungai Dua area.

I feel very sorry and sympathise for the residents and elderly folks who have to put up with the flash floods and especially those who are staying in low laying areas, and will visit them tomorrow.

Last night I went personally to examine the situation at Mutiara Indah and had requested the DO, Penghulu and JKR Jurutera Daerah to do a study.

RM200K has been allocated by JPS to do the flood mitigation at Sungai Dua. All these water problem originates from Bukit Gambir and flows into Sungai Dua and Sungai Gelugor.

The relevant authorities should come together and solve this problem once and for all. I do not want the residents to live in fear each time there is rain.

Thank you.

Raveentharan A/L Subramaniam
ADUN Batu Uban

56 Jalan Permai
Taman Brown
11700 Gelugor
P.Pinang

KENYATAAN AKHBAR KONGRES MELAYU PULAU PINANG, (KMPP) BELANJAWAN KALI KE 54 BAGI TAHUN 2011

KENYATAAN AKHBAR KONGRES MELAYU PULAU PINANG, (KMPP)
BELANJAWAN KALI KE 54 BAGI TAHUN 2011

Lanjutan dari belanjawan kali ke 54 bagi tahun 2012 yang diumumkan oleh Y.A.B Perdana Menteri pada 6hb Oktober 2011 secara keseluruhannya membabitkan sejumlah RM232.8 Billion. Perdana Menteri turut mengumumkan Dasar Transformasi Nasional (DTN) bagi menaungi program-program transformasi yang telah dan akan dilaksanakan oleh kearah menjayakan cita–cita mewujudkan bangsa Malaysia yang bersatu dan maju menjelang tahun 2020. Justeru itu maka belanjawan tersebut bertemakan “Dasar Transformasi Nasional Yakni Bajet Membela Rakyat, Mensejahtera Negara”.

Bagi lebih menyakinkan kononnya belanjawan kali ini cuba memberi keselesaan kepada setiap lapisan rakyat daripada golongan–golongan Pemandu Teksi, Nelayan, Warga Emas, Pejawat Awam, Pesara, Golongan wanita, belia hinggalah kepada kalangan Kontraktor dan pelabur serta yang terpenting Peneroka Felda. Dalam ucapannya beliau memaklumkan bahawa Pelaburan Swasta dan Awam dijangka meningkat. Secara puratanya belanjawan 2012 menyediakan peruntukan RM181.6 Billion untuk perbelanjaan mengurus dan RM51.2 Billion untuk perbelanjaan pembangunan.

Pihak KMPP berpandangan jika berpaksikan DTN maka soal kebajikan rakyat lebih-lebih lagi mereka yang menyumbang kearah menjana ekonomi negara harus diberikan keutamaan. Tidak dapat dinafikan bahawa secara praktikalnya bajet tahun 2012 tersebut adalah untuk rakyat yang merangkumi semua kategori. Namun hakikatnya terdapat kecacatan yang boleh dikategorikan sebagai berat sebelah apabila pihak kerajaan hanya menitik beratkan kakitangan awam daripada kakitangan swasta. Presiden cuepacs begitu teruja apabila hampir 80% tuntutan mereka dipersetujui oleh kerajaan. Sejumlah 1.3 juta pejawat awam akan menikmati bayaran bonus, kenaikan gaji, umur pesaraan wajib ke 60 tahun, serta lnsentif untuk melanjutkan pelajaran. Namun pada hakikatnya Presiden Kongres Kesatuan Sekerja (MTUC) meluahkan rasa kecewa setelah pengumuman yang ditunggu tunggu selama ini iaitu mengenai gaji minima sektor swasta tidak disentuh langsung didalam bajet tersebut. Hanya sedikit tempias yang dapat mereka perolehi ialah caruman (KWSP) dinaikkan ke 13 % kepada mereka yang menerima gaji bulanan RM5000.00 dan ke bawah. Namun skim persaraan swasta (SPS) masih menjadi teka teki bilakah ianya akam diumumkan. Begitu juga dengan bayaran elaun sara hidup (COLA) yang pada masa ini dibayar kepada kakitangan awam juga tidak dinikmati oleh pekerja swasta. Perjuangan pihak MTUC bagi mendapatkan gaji minima RM900.00 yang difikirkan mengikut keadaan sekarang adalah relevan memandangkan kenaikan kos sara hidup pada masa kini.



Sebagai NGO Melayu yang Neutral pihak saya berasa hairan apakah sebab kerana 1.3 juta kakitangan awam tersebut yang majorititnya orang Melayu maka golongan ini diberi keutamaan dan sedangkan ramai orang Melayu juga terlibat di sektor swasta dan mengapakah mereka diabaikan? Bagaimana pula dengan mereka yang bukan Melayu disektor swasta dan perlukan dalam isu ini mereka mereka ini dianaktirikan. Sama ada sektor awam mahupun swasta mereka juga bertanggungjawab untuk menjana pertumbuhan ekonomi negara dan oleh itu pihak KMPP berpendapat pelaburan swasta dan awam akan sedikit terencat jika tidak ada keseimbangan dari segi kebajikan yang di jadikan keutamaan oleh pihak kerajaan. Kenyataan kekecewaan oleh pemimpin MTUC haruslah dipandang serius dan diharap kerajaan dapat mengkaji semula tuntutan mereka lebih lagi soal gaji minima tersebut. Pihak kerajaan perlu sedar bahawa segala tuntutan dari pihak MTUC jika diluluskan tidak langsung memerlukan sumber kewangan dari kerajaan. Jadi mengapa mesti ada pertimbangan berat sebelah dalam hal ini.

Timbul tanda tanya apakah kewujudan cuepacs dan MTUC ini yang mempunyai tanggungjawab terhadap ahli-ahli mereka terutamanya soal kebajikan di mana resolusi mereka apabila diketengahkan untuk tujuan penambahbaikkan kepada pihak kerajaan, maka pihak kerajaan hanya akan memihak kepada kakitangan awam sahaja? Dan apakah rasionalnya? Situasi ini dipandang sebagai tidak sihat kepada ekonomi negara kita. Oleh yang demikian pihak KMPP berharap supaya bajet rakyat berkenaan adalah untuk rakyat dan perlu dipastikan saluran pengagihan sumber bajet belanjawan tersebut bebas daripada unsur rasuah serta unsur kronisma. Sesungguhnya bajet 2012 adalah bagi meningkatkan keyakinan rakyat Malaysia terhadap Kerajaan.

Sekian, terima kasih.

KONGRES MELAYU PULAU PINANG
RAHMAD ISAHAK
PRESIDEN, (019-4728509)

Press Statement on Kek Lok Si Carpark by Prof Jimmy Lim

Devastation of the natural environment in the name of providing a Car park for Kek Lok Si.
Sunday, 9 October, 2011

A. Illegal Acts

1. Done illegal construction that had intruded into public domain. All constructions are required to be set back from the legal boundaries of the property by between 2.0 – 6.0 metres.
To build beyond the setbacksis illegal and plans would not be approved. Going beyond the legal boundary is a double breach of the law and illegal.If there is an Architect and Professional Engineer this could not have happened.

2. No permit given.

All development and construction on site can only commence after plans have been submitted and approval given by the Local Authority.
Any work done prior to permit being given is illegal.

3. No application for building submitted.

If no plan application is made to the Authority for any development, work done on that site, especially if it is large scale, is extremely serious as public safety is involved and is illegal. How did this happen if they had employed the services of an Architect and Professional Engineer?

4. Destroyed a natural river .

This is a blatant disregard for public property and the environment and water ways.
Catchment areas are protected for collecting surface water run-off. Likewise rivers are protected for the purpose of allowing a natural course of water to flow.Causing it to be changed without consultation is illegal. Damaging it is another illegal act.

5. Illegal excavation and commencement of Earthworks.

Unless earthwork’s permit is given no excavation and earth moving can commence as public safety and properties are involved.

6. Destroyed ancient rocks.

Heritage is not limited to only Georgetown which is an inscribed World Heritage site.
These rocks and flora are an integral part of the Natural heritage. Had all Georgetown’s buildings destroyed there would be no world heritage site today. It is short sighted to destroy these rocks illegally.

7. Destroy an ancient Datuk Kong for the Seven Sisters.

Lack of respect for the local customary religious practice is socially irresponsible. It is an integral part of the rituals of the people living in that location. This is destroying local heritage.

8. Destroyed an edifice donated by the Aw Brothers of Tiger Balm fame.

Philanthropic icons are important milestones in the culture of any society. Eradicating or obliterating such charitable mementos deprives the future generations to appreciate the good deeds of their forebears.

9. Reduced the flow of the water. Narrowed the channel.

This site and river, being part of the natural easement for slowing the flow of water from up-stream and the Ayer Itam dam will cause backing up of water that may lead to flooding in the general location of the development. Flashing flooding due to excessive rainfall is not uncommon. Public risk is involved.

10. Introduce concrete culvert and retaining walls.

This is not ‘green’ in today’s world of sustainability. Retaining walls have been known to fail, eg the Gua Tempurong earth failure. Public risk is involved.


B. Consultants’ breach of professional conduct.

1. Consultant Engineer and architect are collaborators in this construction.

For a large project involving public safety there must be professional consultants.
These consultants employed would have to advised the client of how and what to do.
In this case it would appear that they are collaborators otherwise they would have alerted MPPP of this illegal commencement of works.It would mean that the engineers and architects may have breached the Professional Code of the respective Lembaga.

2. Breached the Professionalism.

All professionals registered with the professional Boards are responsible to act in the manner of public concern and safety.With Professional consultants on this project and this happened means that they are not controlling the project or running it.They may have breached the Professional Code governing their profession.

3. Matter should be raised to the Lembaga.

It should be determined if there were consultants commissioned to do this project. If there were, they should be referred to their respective Boards to look into how the environment was destroyed.

4. In the event of a failure who will be held responsible.

Since no plans were submitted and approved it may be impossible to hold the consultants responsible as they did not submitted any plans.In this case the Government will have to hold the temple responsible.

5. Irresponsibility of the consultants must be highlighted to prevent others from doing similar or encouraging such acts.

Consultants of projects where such activities go on are compelled by law to report the matter to the relevant Authority. They did not. Their inaction need to be exemplified to put all consultants on notice on all future developments.

6. Where are plans for excavation?

It appears the engineers did not submit plans for earthworks. For such extensive earthworks project, some plans for action on site would have been produced.It is important for the MPPP to sight these plans before entertaining any request for consideration. This is needed to ascertain the extent of the damage and the intended proposed damage. Sighting the plans should be mandatory prelude by MPPP.

7. Structural plans not sighted.

It appears the engineers did not submit any structural, footing and foundation stabilisation plans for record with MPPP. For such extensive car parking and earthworks on a slope, some plans for work to start on site would have been prepared.It is important for the MPPP to sight these plans before entertaining any request for consideration. This is needed to ascertain the extent of the structure and the intended proposed structures. Sighting the plans should be mandatory prelude by MPPP.

8. Architect’s plans and sections to show cut and fill of the site.

This is a complex site in any body’s language.Was a site analyse done to study the terrain for cutting, filling, moving of boulders, diverting of the stream, a comparative cross-sectional study of water volume between the existing stream the new Altered stream? If it was prepared we would like to see them. It is important for the MPPP to sight these plans before entertaining any request for consideration. This is needed to ascertain the extent of environmental damage and losses. Sighting these plans should be mandatory prelude by MPPP. Should MPPP do not have the time, man-power or inclination to study them the NGOs will be more than happy to assist on MPPP’s behalf.

9. How were the works carried out? Under what specification?

Designs for the building, earthworks, footings, foundation treatments etc.,would have been prepared by the consultants, as well as BQs and specifications. These documents should be sighted by MPPP as a prelude.

10. Professional consultants are in cohort with developer to the detriment of the public.

Professionalism has been side-lined in this case and the party/ties responsible to be dealt with appropriately. The Consultants have breach public trust. MPPP can and have the right to reject all future submissions by these consultants.


C. Action and Restitution to the People of Penang.

1. Stop work immediately.

Order all equipment off the site.This is to avoid further damage.It is learnt that they are still doing work on site usually after hours when the MPPP officials have gone home. Stern action has to be taken. Setting bad example. Laws should be abided. YB Chow’s instruction means nothing to them.

2. Cannot accept the Submission of Plan application at this stage, in view of the extensive damage to the environment.

MPPP should not accept or approve any more applications to build at KLS. The price paid by the people of Penang the beneficiaries is too high. They have lost too much.

3. An Environmental Audit has to be conducted.

To be done not only for this site but for all the natural assets of Penang. Just as all business corporations have to prepare an audited account annually the same should apply to the government. on the environment and developments A joint effort on the part of the State Government and MPPP is required to protect Penang’s natural resources for the future generations.


4. An Environmental Impact report should be conducted by an independent Consultant to ascertain the extent of damage.

An Environmental Impact report not only for this site but for all the natural assets of Penang.
A joint effort on the part of the State Government and MPPP is required to protect Penang’s natural resources for the future generations.

5. JPS (River Authority) has to prepare a Report of how to rehabilitate the river and its down-steam effect.

It appears neither the MPPP nor the consultant referred this matter to JBS for such extensive encroachment on to rivers and its reserves. JBS ought to have been consulted.Illegal intrusion into river and natural watercourse must be viewed with concerns.It is important for the JBS to sight studies for the damaged river. This is needed to ascertain the extent of the damage and the intended proposed damage. Sighting the study should be mandatory by JBS.

6. The damage is done. Cannot make good what has been destroyed?

How can KLS carry out restitution to the People of Penang? Not in words but in deeds.
The State Government and MPPP to commence such actions.

7. Such irresponsibility towards the environment cannot be allowed to get off lightly.

There must be a check and balance in Life. In this case the Temple Authorities has taken away and destroyed what God has given Man. For what they have taken away they should replace one for the enjoyment of the people as it was intended by God. Any restitution for the damage should be equivalent to all tangible and non-tangible assets destroyed wilfully.

8. Precedent set before for destruction of heritage and historic elements.

Eastern Hotel KL illegally demolished the developer was asked to contribute RM 2 million towards protecting Conservation and Preservation Movement then in its infancy. If this amount for Eastern Hotel is to be used to quantify the recompense, then in today’s monetary terms it should be about RM20milion.KLS should not be allowed further developments. It is a religious institute and must not become and environmental monster that affects the quality of the community it is in.

9. Likewise the KekLok Si Temple should now be asked to provide funds

Today’s equivalent to RM2 in 1990, for the acquisition of a naturally beautiful river of similar features with rocks and trees, to be made into a public space for the people of Penang to enjoy. The money will be used to acquire another natural environment with natural river, streams, rocks and flora that is commensurate to that destroyed by KLS. This will be a public space to be enjoyed by all people of Penang.It will never be able to replace what was destroyed by KLS.

D. Planning a Carpark.

1. Is it a proper planning solution to the traffic problems going to and coming from KLS? Or will this exaggerate the traffic problem with an additional 1000 car parking it will attract more people to drive. This carpark will not solve the traffic problems of Ayer Itam.
Traffic problem of Penang has to be undertaken by the MPPP and Government.

2. Should the carparking station be allowed to be constructed in that location? The location for a carpark is wrong and MPPP should set the planning guidelines for this.

3. Planning of utilitarian projects should be the responsibility of the Authorities and not in the hands of monks. Carparking and traffic problems are to be solved by the Government. Private enterprise cannot solve public problems.

Press Statement by Sim Tze Tzin: PSC Must Lead to Reform Political Financing

Press Statement: PSC Must Lead to Reform Political Financing.

1st October, 2011
With reference to the news reported by Malaysiakini titled “Government Shot Down Political Financing Reform Proposal” (http://malaysiakini.com/news/177299), I would like to congratulate the Bar Council for organizing the Forum on Political Financing. This is not a popular subject and many taboos exist. Most, if not all, politicians avoid addressing this subject publicly for fear of negative perception. However, this is a pressing issue among many honest politicians from both sides of the political divide. It is like an elephant in the room.
Like it or not, politicians and political parties need money to run effective campaigns and serving their electorates. The more intense the political environment becomes, the more money is needed. This is especially true for Pakatan Rakyat as we have neither state-owned TVs nor Main Stream Media covering fairly for us.
During the State Assembly sitting on 4th of May, 2011, I have raised this issue to the Penang State Government. Please read the draft of my Dewan Speech 14.0 to 22.0:
http://www.simformalaysia.com/2011/05/05/draft-ucapan-adun-pantai-jerejak-yb-sim-tze-tzin-dalam-sidang-dun-4hb-mei-2011/
http://malaysiakini.com/news/163288
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/5/5/nation/8608634&sec=nation
Based on the report today, the ruling UMNO/BN has proven again that they lack the political will to reform. The former EC Chairman Tan Sri Abdul Rashid has revealed that the ruling federal government had rejected a proposal to reform political financing by providing state funding to political parties. The excuse given was “Malaysia will be crowded with political parties taking advantage of the funding”. To me, this is an utterly lame excuse.
I vehemently urge the Prime Minister to show his political will for reforms. Several organizations, including Transparency International, have approached him pertaining to this matter. He once remarked that he wanted Malaysia to be “The Best Democracy”. The propitious moment has arrived for him to walk the talk.
I also hereby urge the Parliament Select Committee on Election Reform to discuss and introduce State sponsored Political Financing to build a true democracy. The Parliament Select Committee (PSC) must be able to discuss wide-ranging and much needed Electoral Reforms in order to move Malaysia Forward in its quest to become the so-called “Best Democracy” mentioned above.
For too long, political parties, especially UMNO/BN, have relied heavily on dubious financial sources from lobby groups or parties with vested interests. This has resulted in a deeply embedded culture of corruption and nepotism in the ruling BN government. Even former Prime Minister Tun Mahathir has admitted the existence of such dubious funding in his party.
In today’s increasingly competitive political environment, political parties are racing with each other for more political influence. They have to organize all kinds of activities such as open house, providing financial help to the poor and needy, political ceramah, print leaflets etc. Like it or not, these activities incur expenses. It is also not very economically expedient in maintaining a service center, hiring of political aides and keeping the party divisions running. The killer part is during an election campaign when large amount of money is needed to meet inevitable expenses in a short period of time. Political parties or political leaders, therefore, are in constant need of political funds. Many politicians are forced to raise money on a regular basis. Their sources of funding could come from small donations or larger corporate donations. Many have donated sincerely without asking for favors but such sources could also inevitably open the possibilities of political lobbying by big corporations in time to come. Those who do not raise money from the public are forced to spend their own and be financially burdened. This has deterred good people from joining politics.
I would like to reiterate my view that the PM and PSC must take lead to reform because electoral matters come are under federal jurisdiction. On the other hand, the state governments held by Pakatan Rakyat could also explore such initiatives in accordance with the law. I am well aware of the jurisdiction and legal challenges of such initiatives. The various State Governments can set up committees to look into the legality and feasibility of such initiatives in electoral reforms. In Penang, the State Government needs to fork out only RM8 million to ensure fair play in elections. This small amount is a big step in improving democracy.
I am acutely aware of members of the public who might be skeptical of such an idea. They might not be supportive of using taxpayers’ money for funding political activities. Nevertheless this is just a small and necessary investment to keep politicians clean and to curb corrupt practices. Therefore, for such idea to be accepted, we have to provide sufficient political education and public awareness campaigns. Political leaders and parties must now start discussing these issues to educate and change public opinion.
Malaysia must introduce political finance reforms to emerge as a healthy democracy. Malaysian political parties as well as politicians must break away from conventional methods of private donation. The Parliament Select Committee on Election Reform must take lead to suggest State-sponsored funding for political parties. This will provide a level playing field for political parties and politicians to organize their activities and election campaigns. Tighter laws must be introduced to prevent dubious or covert political fundraising. Furthermore, this will help attract more talents to join politics in future. According to Prof Terence Gomez, 70% of democratic countries around the world have introduced State-sponsored Political Financing to prevent lobbying by funders. It is high time for Malaysia to follow suit.

Sim Tze Tzin
Pantai Jerejak State Assemblyman (KEADILAN), Penang.

Press Statement by Sim Tze Tzin on Boustead Land Reclamation

Statement: People Before Profit – Objection to Boustead Land Reclamation
2nd Oct 2011

I would like to extend my unequivocal support to the residents of Putra Marine, Gold Coast, Bay Garden and the surrounding communities in objecting a possible land reclamation project by Boustead. As their state assemblyman, I fully understand their anxiety and fully support their democratic rights to voice up against a greedy corporate giant that might soon affect their lives.

The whole episode of this project goes back 3 years ago. Boustead Holdings Bhd is a corporate giant closely linked to UMNO. It got the approval from the previous administration to construct a high-rise hotel within the UNESCO World Heritage Zone. After Georgetown obtained its UNESCO Heritage Status, Boustead Hotel was requested to reduce the original proposed height to a max 18m in accordance with the new guidelines.

As a result, the current state government under the leadership of YAB Lim Guan Eng was forced to negotiate a settlement with Boustead. Failing to do so, the state is at risk of facing law suits amounting to hundred of millions of ringgit.

I urge Boustead to put the Rakyat and the hard earned Penang Heritage Status first before financial profits. The UNESCO World Heritage is a crown jewel to Penang and any corporate company must respect this status. It is utterly greedy for some corporate companies to calculate losses and threaten to sue the State Government for hundreds of millions of ringgit simply for adhering to UNESCO guidelines. It is equally unscrupulous to force the State Government to compensate them by reclaiming large tracts of land to cover their losses. The Government Linked Companies belongs to the Rakyat. They have to lend their ears to the voice of the Rakyat too!

As the State Assemblyman of this area, I have clearly raised my objection and reservation as early as May, 2011. In my Dewan speech, I put forward my question to the Chief Minister. Please read my Dewan Speech here, para 30 to 35:
http://www.simformalaysia.com/2011/05/05/draft-ucapan-adun-pantai-jerejak-yb-sim-tze-tzin-dalam-sidang-dun-4hb-mei-2011/

After my speech in the august House, I have raised my objections not less than 5 times to the Chief Minister himself during formal and informal settings. I have also arranged 2 meetings for the RA with the Chief Minister. At those meetings, the residents have repeatedly expressed their objection to the CM.

I hope the Chief Minister will stand firm and not succumb to the pressure from a Corporate Giant. The Rakyat will fully support you in negotiating for an amicable solution. We want to send a clear message to Boustead and that is: “People before Profits”!

Sim Tze Tzin
Pantai Jerejak State Assemblyman



文告：人民利益优先－反对Boustead控股填海计划
我全力支持Putra Marine，Gold Coast，Bay Garden及附近一带的居民，反对极可能进行的填海计划。身为他们的州议员，我完全了解他们的感受，及全力支持他们提出反对的民主权利。他们面对的将是一间强大贪婪的商业集团。

这个事件的起源，可以追朔到3年前或更久。前朝政府批准了Boustead在乔治市兴建高楼酒店。但是，不久后，乔治市获得了联合国文教组织的世界遗产地位。随着而来的是比较严厉的发展条规。Boustead被逼减少高度到仅仅18米。Boustead是与巫统关系密切的公司。随后，Boustead就要求州政府补偿损失。如果没有赔偿，他们将会提控州政府上法庭。如果州政府败诉的话，将会被逼赔偿高达数亿令吉的赔偿金。

我谨此呼吁Boustead以人民利益为优先，盈利放次要地位。 世界遗产地位是槟州的“国宝”，Boustead身为政联公司必须尊重遗产地位。我遗憾部分政联公司打算趁机施压州政府赔偿巨大赔偿金祢补他们的损失，这种贪婪的作风，令人不齿。同样可耻的是同时狮子开大口要求填海赔偿损失，这好象是趁火打劫。政联公司是属于纳税人的，他们必须尊重槟州人民的声音。
身为本区的州议员，我早在5月初的州议会里就提出了我对这个计划的疑虑。请阅读我在州议会的纪录（30－35段）：
http://www.simformalaysia.com/2011/05/05/draft-ucapan-adun-pantai-jerejak-yb-sim-tze-tzin-dalam-sidang-dun-4hb-mei-2011/

我也超过5次亲自向首席部长表达人民及我反对的立场。我也安排两次首长与居民协会的对话。居民已经很清楚表达他们反对的立场。我们希望首长在与Boustead协商的时候能站稳立场，不要向巫统朋党控制的公司妥协。人民将与您站在同一阵线，向贪婪的大企业说“盈利虽重要，人民利益价更高！”


沈志勤
班台惹雅州议员启
2011年10月2日

Press Statement by Penang Gerakan Economy & SME Bureau Chairman Michael Heah

Two types of investment, says Heah

Press Statement by Penang Gerakan Economy & SME Bureau Chairman Michael Heah

Aug 24, 2011


A Penang Gerakan leader has urged InvestPenang executive committee chairman Lee Kah Choon to concentrate on his portfolio to bring investments to Penang for the benefit of the people.

Penang Gerakan economy and small and medium-scale enterprises bureau chairman, Michael Heah, said Lee should spend more time improving on his network to reach to more foreign investors, with the aim of attracting them to come to Penang.

“Don’t sleep on your job and wake up trying to pick up quarrels with people. You are paid with public money and you should repay your gratitude with good results and achievements,” said Heah in a statement.

Heah said Lee should know that there are two types of investment, namely new and reinvestment, as far as Penang is concerned.

He said for reinvestment, a firm decision can be made faster, especially when the existing company is already in operation in Penang for many years. The company knows the level of infrastructure available, transportation facilities, availability of supply chain and sub-contractors, experienced and high skilled human resources. So, the company does not have to take a long time to decide to reinvest in Penang.

“However, all these important factors cannot be built overnight and they are being built over a period of time during Barisan Nasional's government previously,” said Heah.

As for the new investment, Heah said, the boss of any prospective company would take a longer time before deciding to put the company’s footing on Penang shore. Faced with other competing countries like China and Vietnam, the company has to consider so many other factors besides those that have been mentioned above, including the geographical location of Penang and Malaysia, political stability, government incentives, culture and language. This is time consuming and it usually take years before a firm decision can be made.

Press Statement by Penang Barisan Nasional Working Committee Chairman Dato’ Dr Teng Hock Nan

I didn’t approve the Jelutong dumpsite, says Dr Teng

Press Statement by Penang Barisan Nasional Working Committee Chairman
Dato’ Dr Teng Hock Nan

Aug 24, 2011

Former state executive councillor Datuk Dr Teng Hock Nan said today that the Jelutong dumpsite has been existing for umpteen years and certainly it is not “me who approved” the site.

Dr Teng, who is also Penang Barisan Nasional Working Committee chairman, said in fact when
he was Exco in charge of local government, he had stopped the Jelutong dumpsite from taking in
organic waste and instead had it transferred to the Pulau Burong landfill in Seberang Prai.

“For Exco in charge of health, welfare, environment and caring society Phee Boon Poh to say that
I had approved the Jelutong dumpsite is sheer ignorance and nonsense,” Dr Teng said in a press
statement.

However, Dr Teng agreed that he had advocated a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) system when he
was a State Exco member.

“Yes, I advocate MRF but whether it is to be at the Jelutong dumpsite, Pulau Burong or elsewhere,
there is no decision made during my tenure,” he said, adding that MRF is the way forward for waste
management for Penang instead of using incinerators.

“I appreciate that the present state government is following up with my proposal to use MRF,” he
said.

Dr Teng urged the state government to immediately find an alternative site which is suitable other
than Jelutong to carry out waste management including MRF, instead of blaming the previous
Barisan Nasional state government.

Dr Teng reiterated that the Jelutong dumpsite had outlived its usefulness and that it was unsuitable
to be located in the midst of commercial and residential development.

On Phee’s statement that RM817, 215 had been collected since July 2009 and the money was used
to support hardcore poor families, Dr Teng said he was surprised that after two years, only RM817,
215 was collected.

“The people would like to know the amount was collected from how many commercial outlets and
supermarkets, the monthly collections, how many hardcore poor families have since received the
money and who are these people?”

“There should be transparency and accountability, a motto advocated by the state government. Is
there a reduction in the use of plastic bags and what is the quantum?” Dr Teng asked.

KENYATAAN MEDIA YB ABDUL MALIK KASSIM - Kerajaan PR P.Pinang membela semua kaum

KENYATAAN MEDIA

25 Julai 2011


Kerajaan Negeri Pakatan Rakyat Pulau Pinang Membela Semua Kaum,

Tidak Pinggirkan India Muslim



Selain memperkenal dan mengamalkan urustadbir Cekap, Akauntabiliti dan Telus (CAT), Kerajaan Negeri Pakatan Rakyat Pulau Pinang terus mendokong prinsip pentadbiran kerajaan berjiwa rakyat, adil kepada semua kaum.


Demi rakyat – inilah yang membezakan pentadbiran Kerajaan Negeri Pakatan Rakyat Pulau Pinang yang baru berusia 3 tahun berbanding kerajaan negeri terdahulu yang mengutamakan kroni dan suku sakat sejak lebih 50 tahun. Sebab itu tidak menghairankan, apabila wujud kaum dan kelompok tertentu terus terpinggir.
Biarpun media yang dikuasai Umno Barisan Nasional sentiasa mengelapkan kejayaan demi kejayaan kerajaan negeri, namun hakikatnya rakyat Pulau Pinang khususnya, dapat mengecapi kejayaan dan menghadam manfaat ini bersama-sama.

Kenyataan Presiden KIMMA Kebangsaan, Senator Datuk Syed Ibrahim Kader dalam akhbar Sinar Harian bertarikh 25 Julai 2011, yang kononnya masyarakat India Muslim Pulau Pinang terpinggir, hanyalah contoh sikap pemimpin hasil didikan Umno Barisan Nasional. Jika benar apa yang dikatakan, maknanya beliau mengiakan apa yang dilakukan oleh kerajaan terdahulu.

Saya percaya di dalam lubuk hatinya, beliau melihat hakikat bahawa di bawah kerajaan Pakatan Rakyat Pulau Pinang, baik masyarakat India Muslim mahupun mana-mana kaum terus diberi perhatian tanpa diskriminasi.

Saya ingin menasihati Syed Ibrahim, usahlah bersikap mengampu dan membodek dek terhutang budi kerana dilantik sebagai Senator. Janganlah sanggup mengadai prinsip dan maruah diri dengan cuba memporakperandakan keharmonian masyarakat India Muslim di sini.
Hakikatnya sejak 2008, kerajaan negeri memberikan perhatian dan prioriti kepada India Muslim, jauh sekali untuk meminggirkan mereka.

Kerajaan Negeri sentiasa komited memberikan sokongan dan bantuan kepada mana-mana pihak yang memerlukan, termasuk golongan India Muslim yang banyak melibatkan diri dalam Badan Bukan Kerajaan (NGO). Pemimpin kerajaan negeri sentiasa turun padang bersama komuniti India Muslim dan memberikan sokongan kepada mereka.

Selaku Exco Kerajaan negeri saya kerap bertemu dan berbincang baik secara rasmi, mahupun tidak rasmi dengan masyarakat India Muslim. Berbincang dalam pelbagai perkara, baik yang besar mahupun kecil, berkaitan isu agama, masjid dan surau hatta tanah wakaf.
Malah saya sentiasa cuba memenuhi undangan daripada masyarakat India Muslim, meskipun kadang-kadang saya menerima notis jemputan dalam masa singkat.

Program yang diperkenalkan oleh kerajaan negeri, iaitu “Penang World Heritage Celebration” hanyalah sebahagian bukti usaha kerajaan negeri melibatkan masyarakat India Muslim secara langsung dalam memacu kejayaan negeri ini. Masyarakat India Muslim turut menerima manfaat daripada program ini, dan hakikat ini tidak boleh dinafikan oleh Presiden KIMMA.

Begitu juga dengan usaha Majlis Agama Islam Pulau Pinang (MAINPP) yang sentiasa memberi perhatian khusus kepada masalah yang dibangkitkan dan dihadapi oleh komuniti India Muslim.

Malah, kerajaan negeri telah mengadakan banyak pertemuan dan perbincangan dan sentiasa membuka pintu rundingan untuk mendengar pandangan daripada komuniti India Muslim. Hasil pertemuan dan perbincangan tersebut banyak masalah sejak zaman kerajaan terdahulu dapat dirungkai. Hanya segelintir kecil komuniti itu yang berlagak hero menggunakan media memburukkan kerajaan negeri. Golongan itu cuba mencipta isu yang bukan isu sebenarnya.

Perlu saya tegaskan, sebagai sebuah kerajaan berjiwa rakyat, adil kepada semua kaum, demi rakyat -kerajaan negeri sentiasa komited membantu mana-mana pihak tanpa mengira bangsa, agama mahupun fahaman politik.

Pada kesempatan ini, saya mengucapkan ribuan terima kasih atas kehadiran pada sidang hari ini dan mengalu-alukan sokongan aktivis agama masyarakat India Muslim Datuk Thasleem Mohamed Ibrahim, aktivis masyarakat India Muslim Shahul Hamed, Persatuan Muslim Tanjung Nasir Mohidin dan para pengusaha Nasi Kandar Pulau Pinang.

Kenyataan Media Chow Kon Yeow mengenai Projek Vista Mutiara

Kenyataan Media Oleh Pengerusi DAP Pulau Pinang Dan
Ahli Exco Kerajaan Tempatan Dan Pengurusan Lalu Lintas Chow Kon Yeow
Selepas Melawat Projek Perumahan Vista Mutiara Di Jalan Jelutong, Pulau Pinang

Pada 19 Julai 2011

Dakwaan SPNB Bahawa Kerajaan PR Sengaja Ubah Syarat
Untuk Lengah CF Adalah Tidak Berasas.

Syarikat Perumahan Negara Berhad (SPNB) mendakwa bahawa Kerajaan PR sengaja ubah syarat untuk lengah CF adalah tidak berasas.

Saya telah mengarah Majlis Perbandaran Pulau Pinang (MPPP) dan Majlis Perbandaran Seberang Perai (MPSP) untuk menyiasat dakwaan tersebut dan mendapati ianya merupakan tohmahan sahaja.
MPSP telah melaporkan bahawa ia tidak mengenakan sebarang syarat tambahan yang baru semasa CF dipohon. Permohonan diproses mengikut syarat yang telah diluluskan dalam Pelan Bangunan.
Pada masa kini, MPSP sedang memproses permohonan CF daripada SPNB untuk 1 blok rumah pangsa kos rendah 4 tingkat (82 unit) di Taman Sejahtera Indah, Telok Ayer Tawar dan permohonan tersebut diterima pada 29 Jun 2011.

MPPP perlu melaporkan bahawa projek rumah pangsa kos sederhana rendah 27 tingkat (404 unit) Vista Mutiara di Jelutong baru mengemukakan permohonan CF pada 16 Jun 2011. Walau bagaimanapun dua syarat didapati belum dipatuhi iaitu penyerahan tanah tapak penjaja kepada MPPP dan syarat penamaan jalan.

Pada 14 Julai pemaju mengemukakan permohonan kali kedua dan jika semua syarat dipatuhi, CF dijangka boleh dikeluarkan dalam masa yang terdekat.
SPNB seharusnya menunjukkan bukti bahawa PBT sengaja ubah syarat untuk melengah CF.
Pada lazimnya CF tidak dapat dikeluarkan kerana kegagalan pemaju memenuhi syarat syarat.
Kerajaan Negeri Pulau Pinang mengalu-alukan pihak pemaju sama ada dari sektor swasta dan awam untuk memajukan projek perumahan mampu milik.
PBT diarahkan untuk memudahkan proses permohonan supaya matlamat menyediakan rumah mampu milik boleh dicapai.

Lebih baik bagi SPNB merunding dengan PBT untuk menangani masalah teknikal daripada membuat tuduhan yang berasas di surat khabar.

Press Statement by Chow Kon Yeow: Response to MP’s call for halt in Balik Pulau projects

Press Statement: Response to MP’s call for halt in Balik Pulau projects

Jul 19, 2011

I refer to Balik Pulau MP Yusmadi Yusoff’s comments, published in FreeMalaysiaToday.com yesterday, calling for a blanket halt on all development projects in his constituency.
The state government cannot arbitrarily halt projects that have been approved unless they are found to violate the conditions set on its approval. Stop-work orders can be issued in the event projects do not comply with the many conditions such projects need to adhere to. These conditions include environmental, traffic, as well as social impact concerns. In this regard, I welcome MP Yusmadi’s concern for Balik Pulau and await his official input on the matter.
Indeed, the State Government refers project applications to local representatives for their comments before approvals are decided upon. We have rejected applications before, especially those involving hill slope development and active agricultural land. As for squatters, ‘resettlement’ is also a condition of approval.

The Penang State Government reiterates its commitment to be a people-friendly government that practices good governance. We welcome constructive ideas from all quarters for the holistic and sustainable building of a better tomorrow.

Chow Kon Yeow
Penang State Exco Member
(Local Government and Traffic Management)

Kenyataan Media Chow Kon Yeow, Isu Penswastaan Sisa Pepejal

Kenyataan Media

Isu Penswastaan Sisa Pepejal Negeri Pulau Pinang

Kerajaan Negeri Pulau Pinang baru-baru ini menerima surat daripada Datuk Ahmad bin Haji Kabit, Ketua Setiausaha Kementerian Perumahan dan Kerajaan Tempatan bertarikh 8hb Julai 2011 mengesahkan bahawa Kerajaan Pusat telah memberi kelulusan kepada Negeri Pulau Pinang dan Selangor supaya kecualikan daripada penguatkuasaan Akta Pengurusan Sisa Pepejal dan Pembersihan Awam 2007 yang akan dikuatkuasa mulai 1hb September 2011.

Perkara ini juga mendapat mengesahan daripada jawapan Menteri Perumahan dan Kerajaan Tempatan kepada YAB Lim Guan Eng, merangkap Ahli Dewan Rakyat Bagan di dalam Dewan Rakyat pada 28hb Jun 2011.

Ini bermakna, Kerajaan Negeri telah berjaya menolak penerimaan penswastaan pengurusan sisa pepejal dan pembersihan awam di bawah Akta Pengurusan Sisa Pepejal dan Pembersihan Awam 2007. Oleh yang demikian, semua tanggungjawab berhubung dengan pengurusan sisa pepejal dan pembersihan awam akan dipikul oleh Pihak Berkuasa Tempatan Pulau Pinang. Kos-kos pengurusan sisa pepejal dan pembersihan awam juga akan ditanggung oleh Kerajaan Negeri dan PBT Pulau Pinang tanpa bantuan daripada Kerajaan Persekutuan.

Dalam hal ini, isu permohonan lesen di bawah Akta 672 juga tidak timbul dan pihak operator perkhidmatan pengurusan sisa pepejal dan pembersihan awam di Negeri Pulau Pinang tidak perlu membuat permohonan lesen kepada Jabatan Pengurusan Sisa Pepejal Negara.

Walaubagaimanapun, PBT Pulau Pinang sudi mematuhi KPI yang ditetapkan oleh Kerajaan Persekutuan supaya dapat melaksanakan kerja-kerja pengurusan sisa pepejal dan pembersihan awam dengan baik.


Chow Kon Yeow
19-7-2011

709: A Penangite relates his story

Yeap Ban Choon, a businessman from Penang and an avid Facebook user relates his experience as a demonstrator during the Bersih march on 9 July 2011. Bersih is a coaliation of NGOs demanding free and fair elections. The ruling government outlawed the Bersih movement together with its yellow T-shirts and other related materials, and severely clamped down on Bersih supporters.

Even the media was not spared. Four Chinese dailies were called up by the government for publishing articles that were described as "uncomfortable" to the ruling party although the authorities claimed that they were just regular meetings.

Currently, six members of Parti Socialis Malaysia (PSM) are still detained under the Emergency Ordinance (EO), which is detention of up to 60 days without trial for purportedly supporting the Bersih movement.

Bersih 2.0 is also dubbed as "709".

Jenice Lee: We march together

Jenice Lee, ADUN for Teratai was spotted among the crowd of Bersih protesters on 9 July 2011, outside of Tung Shin hospital at around 3:30 p.m. This interview was conducted just moments before the Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd. Most of the protesters ran inside Tung Shin Hospital the second time. However, this time the police charged into the hospital grounds to arrest the peaceful demonstrators.

Sever ties with PAS, Gerakan tells DAP

Sever ties with PAS, DAP told

Press Statement by Gerakan Vice-President and Penang Gerakan Chief Dato’ Dr Teng Hock Nan

July 14, 2011


Gerakan vice-president Dato’ Dr Teng Hock Nan today challenged DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng to have the guts to sever ties with PAS, now that PAS has been persistently pursuing its intention to establish an Islamic state of government in Kedah.

Dr Teng said that Lim and DAP should stop bluffing and misleading the people that PAS would discard its intention of establishing an Islamic state of government in Malaysia.

“Stop promising the people that they should not worry and should support Pakatan Rakyat to take over the federal government in the next general elections and that PAS has given up its intention. PAS has no such intention and in fact is using its power in Kedah and Kelantan to vigorously implement policies which encroach into the rights and freedom of other Malaysians who are not of Muslim faith,” said Dr Teng in a statement.

Dr Teng was commenting on PAS Kedah government decision to ban entertainment outlets in Kedah from operating during fasting month.

Dr Teng, who is also Penang Gerakan chief, said DAP had directly or indirectly been responsible for helping PAS to take power in the Kedah state government, especially when the DAP had campaigned for non-Muslim votes for PAS candidates in the 2008 General Elections and in all the subsequent by-elections.

Dr Teng said it was obvious and crystal-clear that PAS is slowly, surely, consistently and persistently working towards establishing an Islamic state of government in Malaysia.

Slamming PAS over its latest move, he said Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Azizan Abdul Razak has been making strenuous efforts in Kedah to realize PAS’ objective.

Dr Teng recalled that the DAP had in the 1990s severed ties with PAS over disagreement with PAS’ Islamic state policy. “What more, we can still remember DAP chairman Karpal Singh’s expletive “Over My Dead Body” when he vehemently objected against PAS’ Islamic state policy.

The Kedah State government had decided that entertainment outlets, including karaoke centers and discotheques will not be allowed to operate during Ramadan in Kedah.

Live-band performances with singers at bars, hotels, restaurants and eating outlets and areas with easy access by the public are also not allowed to open.

The decision has drawn objections from several quarters.

709: Septuagenarian champions Bersih 2.0 (Mandarin)

A 70 year-old lady travelled all the way from Kuantan to participate in
Bersih 2.0. Interview by Tan Ewe Keat from Penang.

Press Statement: On Bersih 2.0 by Chow Kon Yeow

YB Chow Kon Yeow
Pej. Ahli Majlis Mesyuarat Kerajaan
Tingkat 52, KOMTAR
10503 Pulau Pinang.
Tel: 04-2619888
Email: chowkonyeow@penang.gov.my

Press Statement: On Bersih 2.0

Jul 11, 2011

I view with great concern the rising state of repression in our country. With regards to Saturday’s (Jul 9, 2011) Bersih rally in the nation’s capital city of Kuala Lumpur, it is impossible to ignore the violent actions of the Royal Malaysian Police in acting against peaceful protesters. Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Najib Tun Razak’s comments today that “Police had used minimum force and there was no actual physical contact” is an outright lie, which is contradicted by the abundant availability of photographs and video clips documenting the blatant opposite of his imagined claims.

PM Najib’s dishonest assessment of Saturday’s events is propped up by a wall of silence from his approving coalition partners, who – unless they speak up strongly and immediately – collectively sanction the use of chemical weapons against unarmed Malaysians. This is particularly agonising given the fact that one man has died as a result of this violence. Further denials by the Police that they “did not lay a finger” on the late Baharuddin Ahmad ring hollow especially as they also unabashedly denied attacking Tung Shin Hospital on Jalan Pudu when protesters were forced to seek refuge from the choking and stinging effects of inhaling 2-chlorobenzalmalononitrile (a.k.a. CS gas). Instead of issuing mere denials, Home Affairs Minister Dato’ Seri Hishamuddin Tun Hussein and IGP Tan Sri Ismail Omar must confront the hard evidence that their men fired numerous volleys of tear cas canisters as well as sprayed chemical-laced water into hospital grounds – where protesters were trapped without any safe dispersal route available – thereby creating havoc and risking the wellbeing of patients in the hospital. This rabid and irresponsible action by the Police is uncalled for and I demand Minister Hishamuddin and IGP Ismail be held accountable.

I need to voice concern, too, with the Police’s violent handling of Bersih 2 and Pakatan leaders. Reportedly, Parliamentary Opposition Leader Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim sustained injuries to his head and knee and had to be hospitalised as a precaution. His bodyguard was less fortunate, taking a direct hit to the face from a tear gas canister and required surgery to repair damage to his face. The deliberate firing of a dangerous projectile into the crowd or aiming it at particular persons is a criminal act. I understand the Police have a role to play in dispersing a crowd that has turned rowdy or violent. However, the act of firing canisters at peaceful people directly is criminally motivated, hence utterly disparages Malaysia’s image as a democratic nation.

The immediate step PM Najib Razak needs to take is to recognise the sheer amount of discontentment with his government’s continued lack of commitment for free and fair elections. If it is true, as it is reported, that he isn’t “afraid” of fair elections, it is time to take Bersih’s demands seriously and reform our electoral system. As for Home Affairs Minister Hishamuddin Hussein, he has to take full responsibility over Police brutality, the usage of chemical weapons in enclosed areas and a hospital, the city-wide lock down, the massive network of road blocks, as well as intimidation against peaceful rally-goers. I also demand the release of the six PSM activists, including my colleague in Parliament Dr Jeyakumar Devaraj, who are still detained under the Emergency Ordinance. As the detention order was justified on belief that the PSM six intend to participate in the Bersih rally, I call upon the Police to release them immediately since July 9 is already a matter of history and it is no longer humanly possible for them to travel back to that date.

Saturday’s Bersih rally, which saw tens of thousands of Malaysians defying the government clampdown and rise up to voice their collective concern for free and fair elections, is a clear indication of the rakyat’s ability to join hands across the imagined boundaries of ethnicity and religion – boundaries which have been used by UMNO-BN to divide and rule this country for so long. Also encouraging is the fact that Malaysians and their friends from all over the world gathered in various cities globally to lend support for Bersih’s cause. This is patriotism at the highest level. There is reason for all Malaysians to have hope for genuine multiracial politics in this country instead of suffering under the continued ethnocracy of UMNO-BN. And for that to happen, the rakyat must remember that, despite all odds, the 9th of July was the peoples’ victorious celebration of democracy in Malaysia.

Hidup Rakyat!

Chow Kon Yeow
Member of Parliament, Tanjong.
Penang State Exco Member and State Assemblyperson, Padang Kota.
Penang DAP State Chairman.