Tuesday 13 November 2018

The real value is in the experience

I've been listening to some of Jordan Peterson's motivational talks to college students and something he said, just reminded me of something I have always thought about but never quite so clearly. He said something like "be the person that you want to be, and I'm not talking about what you should be". I was thinking about this and it sort of tied in with a lot of stuff that I've been thinking about so, bear with me; while I sort out my thinking process.

I think whilst growing up, we sort of have an idea of what we want in life, or at least what we do not want. I've always wanted a simple life, living by a river and listening to the sound of the flowing water and just appreciating simple things. I never imagined myself being a doctor or a lecturer or a professor. Yet, this is my life but despite becoming all these things, I cannot say that I am not living the life that I always wanted because, we choose who we want to be, and we choose how we want to live our lives. Unless things happen to us, that we have no control over, like war or disease; I am talking about in normal circumstances, we choose what we want to be and in that sense, I am living the life I've always wanted because, as I said, I've always wanted a simple life and what I appreciate more than anything is EXPERIENCES. 

In that senses, me and my husband we are very similar because what matters to us is not so much of wealth or positions or any of these things but what matters most are the experiences we share; and I love him for that, because he has further enrich my life with so many new things, and old things like rekindling old interest such as football, planes, and drawings.

Like I said, I never imagined myself being a doctor or a lecturer, but it has actually provided me with that ability to gain experiences and not just my own but also the experiences of others. Today, for example, I was involved in a health screening and I met some of the most amazing people who shared their experiences with me, there was a lady who survived not one, but two types of cancer and honestly, she looked so well you wouldn't have imagined all the treatment she went through. She is a survivor and there are many people out there like her, survivors and I felt privileged that she shared her story with me. When experience is the most valuable thing in life, you cherish every moment, every sound, every word, every feeling, every taste.

When Mr Peterson says "be the person that you want to be, and I'm not talking about what you should be", it just made me realize something that has been playing in my mind. I remember being a teenager and it is a special time when I was just finding myself, and thinking about life, and what kind of person do I want to be; thinking back I had no restrictions. Of course, to a certain extend we are all 'brainwashed' and told what we should aspire to become; from our parents, teachers, society but the difference is simply to WHAT LEVEL? but essentially, I felt free to choose who I wanted to be. My parents, apart from telling me I had to study and do well in my exams, never told me what kind of person I should be. I had the pleasure of exploring that by myself, with my friends, to develop my own hobbies, I went through study phase, wild teenage phase, religious phase, conceptual phase; I was a free spirit who never wanted to confine myself to simply one thing, because I think even at that point experiences was important to me, to explore everything and to understand, different people and different environments.

I think some people never got to be who they want to be (and I'm talking about normal people, not crazy psychopaths here) because they were told what they should be. For example, a lot of people were told that to be successful they have to end up with a certain type of job, have a certain type of house, a certain type of husband or wife, a certain type of car and then, they work so hard to get all that and when they do achieve it at the age of 35 then they start to look back and wonder what they were missing; and then suddenly realized, they have all these things but they do not have themselves; and then perhaps (I don't know, this is just a theory) that is what people call mid-life crisis.

I always tell people that I am not ambitious and I am not particularly bothered about having a career; but here I am, with a career and Alhamdulillah, a very fulfilling one; and what is fulfilling is not the title or position; but the experiences. I enjoy developing new skills, like writing for example. I started writing since I was 10 years old. I just used to write my thoughts and then, I started writing stories, and blogs and then I started writing about history and general knowledge and now, I am writing manuscripts and research proposals. It is different because of the topics and writing style but it is still all about writing. It is like with music, when I was little, I was exposed to classical music because of my dad and then my brother got me interested in new wave and then, when I was a teenager, I was exposed to rock and metal. That wasn't such a big deal to me because, I love music and I was open to all genres. I mean music has only eight notes with 12 semitones but you can produce so many different tunes and in so many different ways, each piece is an experience and why do we restrict ourselves to only a few types of music when we can experience the entire range; and I have collected all of these experiences since the day I was born and so, it is easier for me to say 'been there and done that; and never wanna do it again.' kinda thing inshaAllah.

Hence, each sound, each word, each senses, each feeling, each time, each place, each moment is an experience; and if we value experience, we will always be rich.

Sunday 26 August 2018

Should Malaysians return home?


Well, apart from the obvious reasons of family, great food, lovely weather and beautiful holiday spots, I don’t actually believe Malaysians should return home but I do believe that it would be helpful indeed if they choose to.
When I first returned home, I was totally shocked at the complete make-over of Malaysia. Of course, the landscape and skyline have been changing throughout the years. However, the more subtle things that Malaysians who come back from holiday may not realize and took for granted started to creep up on me. Things such as there were less and less mixing of races in schools, more and more private schools and vernacular schools. Also, it was the atmosphere of fear I suppose, the fear to speak up, and the constant domination of a few individuals who seem to be very loud and yet, often hollow. I don’t know, it was very weird.
I decided to send my children to ordinary National schools and it was evident to me that the method of teaching have not changed, or perhaps got worse over the years. Things that I did in school such as English and BM summary were no longer in the syllabus. Children were expected to copy from textbooks and even to copy essays. I was reading the primary school year 5 history text book and it was full of pictures but very scarce in facts for example, the story of how J.W.W Birch died was not even told. I asked my son if the teacher had told them the story in class but nope! I mean I remembered going to school and found it very interesting. My friends and I, we all had our own characters and school life was fun but, nowadays even I find my kids school life pretty boring.
I honestly do not know what happened but after PRU-14 I felt the ‘wind of change’ and all the people who were ‘hibernating’ before seem to appear from the shadows. People are starting to speak out and to address certain issues which were pushed under the carpet previously. Issues such as ‘sexual harassment’, ‘bullying’ and even in some hospitals where ward rounds were conducted in languages other than Malay or English has been addressed. It is a good start.
Perhaps you wonder why it has taken so long for these things to surface. I can only assume it is because people were afraid or their complaints fell on deaf ears. In the case of the ward round in a language other than Malay or English, which inadvertently excluded some people who can only speak Malay or English, I suppose the fear is if you bring up the issue, it will lead to ‘racial tension’. Something that has been time and time again psychologically drummed into the Malaysian public. Now that the issue is being discussed and people are actually saying it is not a racial issue but an issue of being considerate; Well, you know what…there is nothing to fear but fear itself.
Hence, I think Malaysia is already doing well (relatively). However, I do believe that Malaysians from overseas who decide to return can contribute tremendously in their expertise and specialist fields, as well as mentality and viewpoint. One thing that perhaps Malaysians overseas experience is what it is like to be an ethnic minority and having to fight for your rights and your beliefs. In the UK, I was an ethnic minority and being a Muslim woman in hijab, I guess indirectly I faced a lot of discrimination. I can’t remember being directly discriminated although I have been called ‘crazy’ for wearing a headscarf during the middle of summer and once I got harassed by some kid who wanted me to have his ‘babies’. Well, when you’re in that situation you have this choice to either be afraid or to fight back and I chose to fight. I chose to verbally speak my mind and tell some people off. I think that is a missing ingredient in Malaysia.
Often in Malaysia, I find there are a few loud people who are often ‘bullies’ and the others stood silently. Often these bullies or spoilt brats get what they want at the expense of everyone else. I think it is about time the majority speak their mind. By the way, I am not suggesting for all of us to turn into Siti Kassim but what I mean is for us to speak the truth and especially to stand up for Islam.
People say that all this butt licking started even during the time of Tun Mahathir. I don’t know. I sort of disagree because I think if we were to follow his example and his bravery and how he was not afraid to speak his mind and to call a spade a spade when it came to Zionism or those responsible for the economic crisis, we should have become a nation of brave souls. So, even if it is true that everyone was ‘afraid’ to say anything against him because he was a ‘dictator’ then I think he realizes now that is not good for the country and is encouraging us to be brave, to stand up for what is right.
So, Malaysians do come home because we need more people who can stand up for truth. For too long Malaysians in Malaysia has been plagued with this concept of ‘not rocking the boat’ and non-confrontational. We don’t need to confront everything or to start unnecessary arguments but justice must be for all.
I think since I returned in 2010 and God knows how long it was before that, people have been restrained in so many ways that it felt a heavy mountain was lifted off peoples’ back after PRU-14. I think people went a bit overboard after that and some individuals and groups were perhaps taking advantage of the situation to further their agenda but the majority public just needed a bit of a nudge to achieve equilibrium. It is easy to go a bit further than necessary. However, having people like Dr Nur Ilyani and others who were willing to speak up and to counteract certain agendas is a breath of fresh air. I think it is healthy because we need to give voice on both sides and to speak with clear understanding especially when it comes to religion.
I can understand for some who have been away for almost half of their lives will probably find it difficult to return. I thought about this when I wanted to make that decision and I knew that if I didn’t take the step to return home when I did, I probably never would so I am really ultimately happy that I made the decision when I did. If I had stayed in UK for 20 years, I probably would have to call myself British rather than Malaysian because our life, our definition, our memories, our existence is linked to our surroundings. So, that is understandable. Perhaps for the younger generation, do come home. Our nation is still building. It is not yet developed but we have at least achieved a two party ‘democrazy’ opps…I mean democracy; and we have survived.
Love you, Malaysia and happy 61st birthday.

Friday 17 August 2018

We need to best to lead us, not the worst! Thoughts of the month.




I haven’t blogged for a while because like the majority of the population, after the PRU-14 buzz, we all have to get back to our day job and move on with our lives. Like many of the ‘ordinary’ citizens we still keep up with the news, and sometimes make comments here and there but no longer religiously. When ‘Malaysia baru’ happened, I found that initially it was mostly ordinary citizens making comments because it was pure and intelligent but as time goes on, there were less intelligent comments and more propagandist. Nowadays, it feels like often the comments were 'planted' and is a waste of time to respond to. I don't know maybe it is just me. 


Just to highlight one thing because I am finding lately, within the last few months that the media is spewing up lots of misleading headlines, sensationalizing headlines and the news. I think Malaysians are really NOT into sensational journalism. I hope that the Malaysian journalist will stop emulating the British tabloids. It is not in our culture and perhaps it is not even in the British culture, I don't know. Perhaps many British people are also fed up with that sort of journalism. 

However, as far as Malaysians are concerned maybe Mak Ciks love to 'membawang' but when it comes to reading politics, people want facts and truth. No more hiding or treating the public like children who can’t handle bad news. We want to know the truth about 1MDB, the government debt etc so when the new government exposes certain things and then certain 'people' from the previous government start to criticize and to act like how they used to when they were in government, they say things like 'Don't expose...hush! hush! and don't frighten people'. It makes me wonder, do they even know why they are no longer in government?  


This is why we voted for change. We want to know the truth and how the government as well as the people can fix, improve and make things better. We want solutions. We do not want to sweep things under the carpet. I believe there is at least one person from the previous government who realizes this; and I hope that the others will follow his lead because ‘Malaysian baru’ will not happen with a new government but an opposition with an old mentality. People have rejected that brand of politics. The previous parties that make up the old government can still stand firm with its original objectives and it doesn’t have to change its philosophy but it needs to change the way in which it achieves the objectives. People have rejected the politics of deceit, self-gratification and grandiosity. People want an accountable government. 


So, no telling the people ‘if you can’t afford a house, go and rent’ or ‘if you can’t afford chicken, don’t eat meat’ or ‘if you’re not happy with the way the stewardess dress, go and look somewhere else.’ No matter how ridiculous the complaint is, as a government you need to answer wisely and intelligently. You need to educate the public and to address their concerns. We need the best of the people to lead us, not the worst!


Wednesday 4 July 2018

My weekly news: Underage marriage and the Kelantan state government

Malaysians woke up this week with a few shocking news. First of all, the ex-PM has been charged today. I guess that wasn't so much of a shock. I am a bit sad, not for him but for my beloved country. I have read about these corruption cases involving leaders in other countries and many are comparing this to Marcos scandal of the Philippines many years ago but you just never expect it to happen to your own country. I can't think too much about it or I will get angry so I am going to be quiet and see how the case unfolds. I hope justice will be served. 

What I do want to talk about is the case of the 11-year old girl from Southern Thailand who recently 'married' a 41-year old man whom I believe happened to be her parents' employer. This little girl is from a poor family, father is a rubber tapper and mother is a cook. They are from Southern Thailand but lives in Gua Musang, Kelantan, North of Malaysia. 

A bit about the news report: 

There has been outrage and all sorts but I want to talk about the state government. This is because people are pointing fingers and pressuring our Deputy Prime Minister to do something. What we need to realize is that Malaysia already has a law against marrying a minor. According to the Malaysian law the age of consent is 16 years old. https://www.ageofconsent.net/world/malaysia

PLEASE READ THIS VERY CAREFULLY regarding STATUTORY RAPE. For any perverts who think they can have sex with a minor in this region. According to the Malaysian law any man caught having sex with a minor even with her consent is considered statutory rape. There is no 'ifs' or buts about it. 

The issue with this case is with regards to marriage because even though the legal marriageable age is 16 years old but the state Shariah court (Islamic court) can allow marriage to happen (with no minimum age) with evidence and investigation including no coercion, parent's consent obtained, child is mature enough to understand and other criteria. Each matter is handled on a case-by-case basis. The issue is about marriage only because sex before marriage in Islam is completely forbidden and sinful, therefore there is no issue of having sex at any age for that matter. 

However, in this particular case, the marriage was conducted OUTSIDE of Malaysia (in Southern Thailand) and is not recognized by Thailand nor Malaysian authorities. The man denied consummation of the marriage and is therefore, not considered statutory rape yet. 

The federal marriage law VS state shariah law. 

My disappointment is actually with the state government of Kelantan. The state government is supposedly run by an Islamic party (PAS) and yet, what is it implementing in Kelantan? It argues that the Syariah court cannot set a minimum age for marriage due to the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad and yet, it conveniently ignored the Sunnah that Prophet Muhammad s.a.w promoted education and calls for all people to seek knowledge from cradle to the grave. 

We know during the time of the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w that there was no formal education and in fact, he himself was illiterate until he received the revelation. However, if he was alive today I have no doubt in my mind that he would ensure all children go to school and complete their education rather than to get married; because today, we have an opportunity that they never had before. We take it for granted because school has become a norm, even going to university is like nothing special. Yet, just imagine there was no school and university was unheard of at the time of the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. 

Did we know that the first ever university was established in the year 859 CE at Al-Karaouine, Morocco and it was founded by a woman called Fatima al Fihri? 

Evidence of the first university here

Yes, the first university of all time was founded by a Muslim woman. The Prophet Muhammad s.a.w would have been so proud to know that Muslims founded the first university and had he been alive today, I have no doubt he would send Aisyah r.a. and his daughter Fatimah to school and who knows? Aisyah with her brilliance could have furthered her studies and obtained a PhD Wallahu A'lam. 

The Prophet Muhammad s.a.w wanted to see men and women seeking knowledge and furthering their quest in finding the truth, proving the world around us and understanding the creation of God. So, why are we going backwards and focusing on getting 11-year olds to marry? The state should be focusing on kids to go to school and gain education. If the state government truly wants to implement Islam, it should ensure that all boys and girls obtain an education. Give help to those who are poor and cannot afford to go to school because it seems that their only option at the moment is to get married. Is that really an Islamic solution at a time where opportunity is for everyone? 

Sometimes Islam does not give us a particular law but it gives us concepts and ideas. It shows us a way on how to do things better. I would like to see the state government truly implement Islam, not just in the implementation of hudud but in its approach to life itself, to governance, to promote cleanliness on the streets, education for boys and girls, creating an atmosphere of seeking knowledge in all aspects of life, after all science is nothing else but the study of God's creation, to ensure that men are responsible and fulfil their duties towards their wives by providing for them and looking after the family. Show us true Islam, not be embroiled in political dirtiness and the culture of accusations. 

Give that 11-year old girl an alternative, show her there is another way. Send her to school, help her family and if 6 years from now after she obtained her Certificate of Higher Learning (SPM) results and she is still in love with this (by then) 47 year old man then marry them off. 




Saturday 9 June 2018

My weekly news: Fake news abolishment and free speech

Three days ago, in his usual lunch time speech our PM confirmed the abolishment of fake news act which was hastily brought in by ex-PM prior to the election. This is good news for most of us. However, since the results of GE-14, we have been inundated with various 'fake news' and often misleading headlines even from main stream media reporting, not to mention the various unnecessary negative and sometimes outright rude comments from some members of the public. So, how do we strike a balance between protecting the rights of people to express themselves versus the protection against fake and malicious intent? 


I agree that introducing a law is not the answer because even if a law was created with good intentions, it can somewhere along the way be abused by those in power. Therefore, we need a better long term solution. My thoughts would be on self-regulatory based on the concept of professionalism. First of all, let me introduce the meaning of Professionalism 


Professionals often pride themselves through their ability to self-regulate. Therefore, as a doctor I am a professional and I have a regulatory body which is the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) that ensures doctors maintain a certain standard of practice through defined codes and ethical conduct, will not abuse their power and will be investigated if commit any medical wrongdoings. 

If as a nation we pride ourselves in our ability to express our views and not be restricted by a government law then perhaps we need to regulate ourselves. This regulatory should not come from the government because people hate government interference (irrespective of any government whether it is BN or PH or PAS). Therefore, these regulatory body should be independent. It is perhaps easier for media outlets for example, I am sure they have a regulatory body and if they don't, they should have. However, when we talk about the people in general, it is slightly difficult because people are people, so there are no one regulatory body as such. 

However, we can have general guidelines and NGOs or other professional bodies that can promote a responsible type of behaviour, a form of education to the public as to how to become professional in our responses and remarks towards others. 

For example:

1. When you read a news or statement do not react immediately, take time to think about it and how you would react. Don't jump to conclusions, do not assume. Just take a few seconds to think. 

2. Before you share a news or statement, think first what is your objective of sharing? Is it to educate or for malicious intent? Do not spread lies or have malicious intent. Spread for the purpose of education or information.

3. When we express our views, are we simply venting out our frustration or do we intent to incite feelings in others? Venting out our own frustration in public may not be a bad thing as long as people know that is what we are doing. We must always remember that whatever we write, will be read by people from God knows where and from which background. They may not always understand or agree. Therefore, be clear if we are simply venting out. Use emoticons if needed. 

On the contrary, if we intent to incite feelings in others, this may lead to sedition (hasutan). We must know the difference and we must be aware of our role in this issue. There is already a 'Sedition Act' in Malaysia and it is not going to be rid of anytime soon. 



There are a few issues that are considered 'sensitive' in Malaysia and it is already in the Malaysian constitution. This includes the rights of the 'Nine State Royal Kings' of Malaysia, the rights of the Malay Natives and Indigenous (Bumiputera) people and so on. How do we handle these issues? I don't believe we should declare these topics as untouchables, but I do believe that within our education system, the way we convey the message to our children should be clear. Make history interactive and let the children discuss these issues. Children are innocent, they do not yet have the understanding of good and bad but they need to know why history has shaped the way things are today. They need to appreciate history and learn to respect others. 

As for the constitutional rights as above, these should be protected and remain however, I also believe that our Malaysian Chinese and Indians whose parents, grandparents, perhaps even great-grandparents were born and brought up here, should be given some form of 'Bumiputera' equivalent status and rights. After all, their forefathers came here with a hope for a better life, a better future and equal opportunity. Most importantly, we share a history, a national language, a national anthem, same national heritage. We celebrate one another's culture and we have respect and understanding of one another's beliefs. Chinese and Indians learning Mandarin or Tamil is not a problem, if anything we should all become trilingual but exclusion is not the answer and vernacular schools is not the answer. I will leave it to the politicians and I know it sounds weird and people would probably cuss me for it but we all worked together to make this country great so, why not? 

Well, it is not for me to decide. I am just a small fish in the sea. However, the issue of fake news need to be address because we cannot allow those who are irresponsible or malicious to taint the good intent of the other 99% of the people in this country. At present, a month after the GE-14, the people are still in an intoxicated state, like someone who have just achieved freedom and people are saying whatever they want to say; but there needs to be some form of regulation and in most cases, equilibrium will be achieved by itself, unless a catalyst is introduced. So, be mindful people! 


Thursday 7 June 2018

My weekly news: Government servants should be proficient in English

I am focusing on this one news alone because it is potentially a 'Lailatul Qadr' night or known as 'The night of Power' and Muslims would like to spend more time doing extra prayers or reciting the Qur'an because these last 10 nights are extra special. So I am choosing one very important news from this week. 

Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed, our Prime Minister in his speech yesterday announced the need for government servants to be proficient in English. That is all well and good but what gets to me is the response of some people who are against it, complaining about it and claiming we are abandoning the Malaysian language in favour of English.

First of all, let me state a fact. FACT: Malaysians have been learning in their formal education both the Malaysian (Malay) language and the English language from the age of 7 up to 17 years old. So, if any person who went through the Malaysian education system and not able to have a decent conversation in either of the two languages i.e. Malaysian or English than that person is at fault. why? because a language requires practice, to read, to speak, to write. The initiation and determination to practice speaking has to come from one's own self, not from teachers or lecturers or the government. If a person is shy or inferior or think they can't speak in English for whatever fetish reasons, that is their problem. Don't blame it on the government, school or whatever. Get rid of that attitude and speak! 

Let me ask something to those people who make such a big fuss. Did the Prime Minister ask you to do something bad? Did he ask you to steal? Did he ask you to take a bribe? Did he ask you to support him even though he took the people's money? No! Tun Mahathir asked you to do something good for yourself. He asked you to be proficient in another language. Did he ask you to stop communicating in the Malaysian language? No! So, if you think that someone asking you to do something good for yourself is a bad thing, then you are the one with a serious problem because you refuse to help yourself.  

On the contrary, another thing that bothers me is people make a big fuss when a Malaysian does speak good English. I thought that is expected. As I said, we learn English in school from the age of 7 years old. It would be a serious problem either with our education system or with ourselves if we still cannot converse in English. Our parents who were born in the 1920s and 1930s perhaps had better English skills then us because some of them went to English schools under the British. So, what is wrong with the people in this country? Having the ability to speak in English should not be a shocking thing. Please stop saying 'For a Malay, he has good English' or 'For a Chinese, he can speak good Malay' That is not a compliment rather it is an insult!  

I absolutely hate it when people say to me that my English is good because I studied in the UK. I have been speaking in Malay and English my entire life. I did not learn to speak English in England. I went there having been able to speak in English. Perhaps my accent changed a bit and I stopped saying 'Lah' at the end of every sentence but that was about it.  

I will tell you a story. Living in the UK for 17 years and not having anyone to speak Malay to, I did lose my ability converse fluently in the Malaysian language. I could still speak Malaysian but not the formal type of Malay. For instance, I couldn't give a speech in Malay (like Anwar Ibrahim for example). Okay, I still can't give a speech like Anwar Ibrahim but I think I can give my medical lecture to my students in Malay (if I have to) because our lectures are all in English. Anyway, one day after returning to Malaysia in 2010, I went to a course and the lecturer whom we call J.J (a Malay guy) he totally inspired me. He was able to give his lecture in impeccable Malaysian language and English language. I was so impressed by him and I was adamant that one day I was going to be like him, able to speak fluently, to give my lectures in both Malaysian and English language. After 8 years of being back in Malaysia and I was called for my Associate Professor interview, when they asked me questions in English, I answered in English and when they asked me questions in Malay, I replied in Malaysian language. One of the interviewer made a comment of how he was impressed with me and my ability to do so. I then realized what I have achieved and I was proud of myself. I was happy that I have almost achieved my aim to be like J.J. 

It annoys me when people say 'Wow! Lim Guan Eng can speak Malay'. Of course he can speak Malay, he went to a National School (Sekolah Kebangsaan) or when people say 'Wow! Dr Maszlee can speak in English' Of course he can! My nieces and nephews who go to Chinese school can speak in Chinese. So what? When we learn a language at school, we are supposed to be able to use it. What is the point of learning a language for bloody 11 years and then not able to use the language? Think about it. Besides, whatever language you know will give you further access to more knowledge because you can read more books, watch more educational videos and learn more things. What is so bad about that? 

We make it a big deal because of attitude. If some people have an attitude that they do not want to speak or do not want to be good at something. Whose fault is that? Think about it! Our national language is Malaysian, learn it well. The lingua franca of the world at the moment is English, learn it well and whatever other language you learn, Arabic, Mandarin, Tamil etc. just learn it well. 

Saturday 2 June 2018

My weekly news: Ramos, 'call gate' idiot, Jamal public nuisance and Mr Ex-PM please stop talking.

In this weeks 'Have I got idiotic news for you'. In the odd one out round, what do all these have in common except one. 


Ramos will be remembered as the footballer who prevented Mo Salah from playing in the World Cup (although we are all still hoping for a miracle) 



Well done Ramos! (Sarcasm) Your action has made you the most hated footballer in history ever. You have not only angered Liverpool fans, but fans all over the world who love Mo Salah, Egyptians especially who are understandably heart-broken that their star player may not be able to play in the world cup. I am not a Liverpool fan, or an Egyptian national team supporter but I too love Mo Salah because of his style of playing football and the amazing goals he scored. I was really looking forward to watch Mo Salah play against CR7 during that Champions league final which, you had to mess up! I was really looking forward to see Mo Salah in the World Cup even though I do not support his national team. We all love to watch a good game but, Ramos! You totally messed up everyone's dreams.


Idiot 'call gate' exposes the male insecurity and disrespect for own self. 



The caller, 'Azrul' (perhaps not real name). We don't know who you are but you are a moron and perhaps a coward. It is bad enough to attempt to insult a lady when she was answering intelligent national issues but you insulted probably one of the most modest woman politician in this country. Your insult over the phone portrayed you as a bloody pervert or perhaps a cheap political stunt. How much money were you offered to do the job?

Even if you were offered 2.6 billion to make a stupid prank call, it doesn't hide the fact that there is a total lack of principles within you, the lack of honour and respect towards others as you struggle to even perhaps, respect yourself. It exposes a deeper inferiority complex and lack of self-esteem that resides in that hollow personality of yours. You attempt to hide your nothingness by insulting strong-willed and independent women because that is the only way you can feel better about your worthlessness. Yes, any man out there who can't deal with strong women, take a good look in the mirror and wonder why you are invisible.


Jamal the public nuisance 



He was known during the previous government time (pre-GE14) as Jamal Ikan bakar or Jamal Tuala or Jamal pecah beer but now, let's just call him Jamal, the public nuisance. A summary of all those Ministers and public figures (linked to BN) making ridiculous statements and taking us all for a ride. I think this person suffers from narcissism or perhaps, media-attention addiction syndrome (if there is such a thing), can any psychiatrist comment? He was charged, asked to pay bail and whilst the bail was being processed, he fled. That is like the most ridiculous thing ever and then, he asked for the Internal Minister to protect him and then he ran off to Indonesia. No one can understand this man's actions and why should we? The only reason why we should remember him is to remind ourselves that the previous government breeds circus clowns and that P Ramlee was right when he spelt 'Alif, Mim, Nun, Wau' = sarkas.




Mr Ex-PM, please stop making any public statements. It is no longer warranted



Can these top US lawyers please advice the ex-PM to not make anymore public statements and that he should be as quiet as possible because I don't know about everyone else, I just can't bear reading or hearing anything else this person has to say. After everything that has happened, and everything that was denied, and everything that was hidden from us, why say anything now? If 1MDB was so clean why make the report official secret or sack members who dare to question? So stop! just stop making anymore statements. You had your chance, you blew it. 

For some reason, the Malay Mail and MSN news keep popping up all these reports about this person on my laptop and phone like they just want to spoil my day! 

I am really glad that the public changed government because I think 60 years of political domination has not prepared our previous government to lose. Losing is a lesson and it makes us stronger. Losing is not a bad thing. Liverpool lost the Champions League but did that stop Klopp and his team? Did he wallow in self-pity and grief for weeks on end? Did he make sore loser statements like those made by BN members? No, he made his post-match speech and moved on almost a day later by signing on Fabinho. Why can't BN be like Liverpool? Just move on and be better. Sort yourselves out. Sort Perlis out for God's sake! Stop blaming PH or anyone else, take responsibility for your own actions. In other words, Grow up! 

Hence, parents should never shield kids from losing. Let them win sometimes and lose at other times. Learn to cope with disappointment. That is life! 

Thursday 24 May 2018

My weekly news: A disappointment in BN Perlis and PAS Kedah

Perlis has a Chief Minister


Very disappointed with the actions of the BN Perlis. Really thought they would step up with the rest of the country to be a better party, to show a better form of opposition, to put the needs of the people above own desires. Also, they should respect the request of the Sultan of Perlis. Was really hoping for a change in attitude of the BN. 

I don't know about you but I am pretty disappointed. Really hope that in the next UMNO election they can elect a leader that can bring change in UMNO to be a better party, a clean party. 

I am glad however that PAS Perlis has decided to support and respect the Sultan's decision.

The DUN problems in Kedah

Would like to see PAS Kedah follow the footsteps of PAS Perlis by working with the State government in protecting the interest of the people. Another disappointment for PAS despite claiming to be an Islamic party but has not shown an exemplary behaviour in this matter.

Perhaps it wants to play a political game in expense of Islamic values. PAS has won these seats as elected representatives and they need to represent their constituency and to work together with State government for the sake of the people. When Johor MB expressed his reluctance in helping the opposition, everyone reprimanded him. I would like to see PAS members and supporters to remind their elected representatives to portray the best Islamic characters rather than to adopt devious political traits.

PAS claims that their non co-operation stems from PH not accepting PAS proposal to form a joint government in Kedah without opposition. That would also include the 4 BN state assembly. That offer seems pretty strange to me, as the best way for governance is to have a mature opposition that will work well with the government in matters that benefit the people and to criticize any wrongdoings. Since PAS is an Islamic party, its main role should be 'Amar Maaruf, Nahi Munkar' which is to Enjoin the good and Forbid the evil. That should be their central objective rather than power struggle. Therefore, was hoping for PAS to portray an exemplary Islamic characteristics of forgiveness, co-operation, sincerity and generosity.

Maybe there is still light at the end of the tunnel and that the central PAS leadership will instil the Mature Political Culture within PAS Kedah.

http://www.ibnuhasyim.com/2018/05/pemilihan-speaker-dun-kedah-apa-kata-dr.html

It looks like the future of this country relies on us, the ordinary people to speak out and to ensure all parties (government, opposition, media etc..) are on the right track. 



Sunday 20 May 2018

My weekly news: Arrested for insult and Nik Omar PAS family political drama


A man arrested for insulting the PM 

I agree. Tun Mahathir has too much on his plate right now to bother about a single person insulting him. Also, I think the people should take a social responsibility to report all insults or racial / personality incitement to FB, YouTube or whatever social media they are using. You can simply click a button and report and the post will be removed. No one needs to be apprehended or put in jail and stop hash tagging PDRM. However, I do agree that the police needs to take action if a threat of violence is expressed. 
Since then, the man has been released and Tun Mahathir has requested to the police not to arrest those who insult him on social media. 

Nik Omar decision to be a PKR candidate and the backlash he receives from his family 


Nik Omar has claimed that he has been barred from giving lectures in the mosque that he has been giving sermons for years. I chose this topic because for those who were brought up in the 80s and 90s, we remember our parents talking about the issue of PAS vs UMNO during that era that led to inappropriate practices such as ‘masjid dua imam’, 'kafir-mengkafir etc. Perhaps some of the supporters went overboard. 


https://soscili.my/peristiwa-berdarah-di-memali-dua-versi-cerita-yang-sangat-berbeza/


Please remove the 'taksub’ mentality. If one believes that they are the only ‘Islamic’ political party, this will inevitably lead to an ‘elitist’ mentality that perhaps they don’t even realise. Instead of getting closer to the people, they are actually causing further division and distancing themselves from the people.

My concern with regards to this Nik Omar case is that it was even reported (Wallahu A’lam) that his own mother is against him and calls him ‘an ungrateful son’. Let me ask how does having a different political viewpoint makes one an ungrateful son? In fact, if a grown up man cannot have his own views and must follow the political view of his mother, does that make him a good son? Did he cheated or lied, murdered someone or stole money from people for him to be considered a terrible Muslim? No! Where is it in Islam that a son must follow his parent’s political affiliations? What kind of brainwashing would I be charged with if I told my children that they would be ‘anak derhaka’ if they did not follow my political beliefs?

May I remind everyone that PAS actually formed a coalition with BN between 1974 until 1978. Honestly, we don’t even need an explanation or Islamic reasons as to why PAS decided to do that. There is no need for any Islamic justification as to why PAS formed a coalition with PKR and DAP in 2013. The reason is simple. It was a political decision. It was not an Islamic decision. Because PAS is first and foremost a political party working within a democratic system. The late (Allahyarham) Nik Aziz was a good, knowledgeable and pious man, why is there a need to chastise his son for having a different political view?

Can we please have some sense here and stop this ‘taksub’ mentality. If this is Islamic politics then don’t have Islam in politics. If putting Islam in politics makes a person condemned to following a particular political party simply because they were born within that party then, how is that Islam? How is breaking the ties of kinship simply because one has a different political view from their parents or siblings Islamic?

I really hope that this is merely a misunderstanding and I hope that the family will see sense and put party politics behind them. Islam is Islam; family is family and let political affiliation be simply that. During this month of Ramadhan, really hope the family could look past their differences and keep to the ties of kinship. 




Friday 18 May 2018

The Children's Government Policies Wish List: Education, Environment and Politics.


On the 18th May 2018 The Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamed named his cabinet ministers. Initially, Tun Dr Mahathir announced that he was going to hold the port-folio of the Minister of Education (MOE) however, perhaps after several discussions, and a lot of ‘noises’ from certain people, the final candidate was Dr Maszlee Malik. So who is #DrMaszleeMalik?


From this website article, he seems to have a good credential. However, my personal concern is the fact that he comes from an Islamic background. Will he be able to cater for the multi-racial, multi-religion society. At this crucial point where our society is looking for unity we need to provide an education that is fit for all. Don't get me wrong, I am not anti-Islam and no disrespect to Dr Maszlee, I don't know him. 

My point is our current education system is largely fragmented with the last 10 years or more, we have seen a rise in the numbers of private international schools, private Islamic schools, National-type Chinese and Indian schools as well as the National schools. This has indirectly segregated our children and deprived them of the multi-racial environment that most of us (in the 80s and 90s) experienced and enjoyed.  

A week prior to the elections, we did an exercise with the kids and asked them if they were to form the next government what policies would they like to change or introduced. Their main agenda were EDUCATION and ENVIRONMENT with some general political issues. If 18-11 year olds can come up with this. I am sure our strong cabinet will do better.

Here are their wish list:

GOVERNMENT AND RULING

1.    To limit the Prime Ministers’ rule to two terms only (Maximum of 10 years)

2.    To introduce Ministers salary based on performance –

My advice to them was it is probably a bit difficult to implement this and we do not want Ministers to do their jobs based on popularity either.

3.    To improve the distribution of zakat (Muslims) and charity (everyone) to those who need it.  

I added: To make it easier for this to happen and it would mean the Zakat & Charity office needs to actively look for people who should receive help. 

4.    Free speech – the kids would like free press and free speech. 

I added: this must be coupled with better education system to make sure children and adult alike can communicate facts and able to discern truth from fake. Free speech must be coupled with responsibility.

5.    Stop flags – The kids felt that the flags during elections were a waste of money. (Don’t know what people think about this!)

6.    No divisive campaign – The kids do not want to hear each side slagging off the other but instead political parties should focus on their own manifesto and how they were going to bring the country forward. They wanted more truth and honest admission if certain mistakes were made and how it would be corrected.

EDUCATION

1.    No text books. The schools should have a clear syllabus and reference book for teachers. However, teachers should be free to teach the children using creative methods rather than having the kids to copy down what is in the text books.

My son says teachers should ask more questions and let kids speak and give ideas rather than to sit there and listen to the teacher all day long. He felt the method of teaching was boring.

Teachers will plan out their weekly objectives and daily teaching plan to ensure they cover the syllabus (as per usual) and to submit reports (as per usual) 

2.    The practice of ‘copy’ from text books should be stopped with immediate effect because it is teaching our children to be parrots. 

I have seen the effects it has on our undergraduate students with the problems of plagiarism.

3.    No vernacular schools. The kids would like to have all the different races in their schools.

Do not have to shut down vernacular schools but need to open up for all races and to convert all schools to National school. 

Extra cultural classes or religious education can be conducted after National school time, the same as the Muslim children who currently go to National school (am or pm) and then go for extra religious school (am or pm). This extra school is optional. 

Private religious schools (any religion) and private international schools will need to meet the standards of the National curriculum. 

4.    Develop a national curriculum that can incorporate all race and cultures.

I added: revisit the Razak Report

5.    Start formal education at an earlier age of 6 years old but for the first two years will be assessment only but no formal exams. Formal examinations will start at 8 years old.

6.    My idea: The first two years of school (aged 6 until 7 years old) I would like to adopt Tun Dr Mahathir’s idea of 3M (membace, menulis, mengira – read, write, count) but I would like to adapt to 6M (which will also include melukis, menari dan muzik). The reason is at this age, children should be allowed to express their artistic nature. Drawing is what children like to do anyway but they can be taught with proper technique and improve in creativity, dancing will improve their gross motor skills and coordination as well as introducing them to the Malay, Indian and Chinese as well as other cultures and music, as we know classical music helps to improve intelligence.

7.    Hubby’s and sons idea: Sports and physical activity should be incorporated in all schools (no text books) children from the age of 8 years old should be taught on the proper technique of the games e.g. ball control etc. To employ those with sports science degree or diploma to teach ‘pendidikan jasmani’. As Lim Teong Kim explained that the grass roots is important if we want to build a good national football team




8.    ICT should also be part of the daily educational method of teaching rather than a separate subject. ICT can be used to teach languages or maths in dedicated classes.

9.    Moral and civic-minded behaviour should be incorporated in the classroom and every activity e.g. making sure the children throw rubbish or sharpen pencils in the bin; looking after cleanliness of the school rather than a separate subject. It should be incorporated in the everyday behaviour e.g. making sure plates/cutleries are put in the proper basin after eating at the school canteen.

10.  My daughter also suggested to add personal finance training and touch typing in schools (as she found that useful – I taught her both)

11.  At 16 years old, they should be able to choose the subjects they would want to study based on interest rather than intellect. Our nation has gone far ahead from those times when smart students study science subjects and ‘not so smart’ students study arts subjects. We know now that the job market is competitive and even doctors, lawyers and engineers sometimes can be jobless after they qualify. Therefore, we should stop this discrimination and allow our children to excel in whatever subject of their interest whether it is arts, science or technical. 
12. I am not sure about technical schools, but they need to leave school with proper technical pra-diploma certificate that they can use to further their studies (in diploma and degree)

ENVIRONMENTAL

1.    The kids are all in agreement that all historical lands and buildings are to be protected and restored to be re-used for their intended purpose e.g. Lapangan Terbang Sungai Besi or  preserved as historical site e.g. Pudu Jail. This is our national heritage.

I added: Proper laws to make sure that NO Minister or anyone in power will be able to change its title or sell to the highest bidder for any amount of profit. We must protect these sites from those who have absolutely NO understanding of culture and heritage and are only interested in their own personal wealth.

2.    Sabah and Sarawak environment must be protected and all development project must not affect the ecosystem of the land.

I added: To find other methods for development e.g. instead of investing on big highway projects that can jeopardize the environment, to use the funds to improve river transportation with better high speed boats and ferries, introduce flying doctors (like in Australia). We must change the mind-set that development = destruction of rain forests; and to become more creative in using technology to improve lives.

3.    Stop building more shopping malls all over the place. There are too many malls already. Instead invest in recreational parks, covered pedestrian walks, libraries, water features.

4.    For new buildings, invest on renewable energy e.g. solar energy, wind energy etc.

5.    Improve public transport and covered pedestrian walkways (like in Sunway) and have areas for pedestrian walks only (no vehicles allowed) in KL and other busy towns.

HEALTH

To educate the public on mental health and no more stigmatization. Improve counselling services especially in schools and universities.

Thursday 17 May 2018

History of the Main Ministry's Port Folio in Malaysian Government


 I compiled this a few weeks before the 9th May 2018 elections as I wanted to prove to myself what was happening in the country since independence. 
My main issue has always been education (as I am involved directly in education)
1. Who was responsible for allowing so many private Universities offering Medical degree? 
2. Who was responsible for allowing vernacular schools to become so prolific? 
PERDANA MENTERI
TIMBALAN PERDANA MENTERI
MENTERI PERTAHANAN
MENTERI PENDIDIKAN
MENTERI KEWANGAN
KEMENTERIAN DALAM NEGERI
MERDEKA 1957

TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN (1957-1970)


Najib born 1953; went to St Johns and then Malvern Boys College.

TUN RAZAK (1957 – 1970)
TUN RAZAK (1955 – 1957)

TUN RAZAK (1955 – 1957)
KHIR JOHARI (1957 – 59)
ABDUL RAHMAN HAJI TALIB (59 – 65)
KHIR JOHARI (65 – 68)
ABDUL RAHMAN YAKKUB (64 – 70)

 THE RAZAK REPORT, 1956
1. Menjadikan BM sebagai Bahasa kebangsaan, Bahasa perpaduan dan Bahasa pengantar di sekolah. 2. Mengeratkan perpaduan antara kaum Melayu, Cina dan India sebagai satu rumpun Bahasa di Tanah Melayu. 3. Mengembangkan system pendidikan agar jurang perbezaan antara kaum dapat dikurangkan 4. Menyediakan kemudahan pendidikan yang mencukupi untuk melahirkan masyarakat yang berdisipliln, terlatih, liberal dan progresif. 5. Mewujudkan system pengurusan pendidikan yang  lebih cekap dan berkesan.
6. Mewujudkan masyarakat yang bertolenrasi, berdisciplin, terlatih, liberal dan progresif. 7. Memenuhi keperluan negara yang merdeka dan memperkembangkan system pendidikan.

TUN HAU SHAIK LEE (1957 – 59)
TAN SIEW SIN (1959 -69)
TUN RAZAK (1969 – 70)
TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN (PM)

1957 SULAIMAN BIN DATO’ ABDUL RAHMAN

1959  PENSTRUKTURAN SEMULA AND DIVIDED INTO THREE MINISTRIES (MENTERI DALAM NEGERI, MENTERI KEADILAN, MENTERI KESELAMATAN DALAM NEGERI)

1962 PENSTRUKTURAN SEMULA
BACK TO ONE MINISTRY: KEMENTERIAN DALAM NEGERI
TUN DR ISMAIL BIN DATO’ ABDUL RAHMAN

Internal security Act, 1960 and demolished 2012; not yet replaced by two other Acts according to Najib Razak; but now there is National security bill, 2015

1967 TUN DR ISMAIL MELETAK JAWATAN DAN DIGANTI TUN ABDUL RAZAK

TUN RAZAK (1970 – 76)
TUN DR ISMAIL (1970 – 73)
TUN HUSSEIN ONN (1973 – 76)
HAMZAH ABU SAMAH (1973 0 74)
TUN HUSSEIN ONN (1970 – 73)
MAHATHIR (1974 – 76)
TAN SIEW SIN (1970 – 74)
HUSSEIN ONN (74 – 75)
1969 SELEPAS PERISTIWA BERDARAH 13 MEI, TUN DR ISMAIL MENTERI DALAM NEGERI.

1973 TAN SRI MUHD GHAZALI SYAFIE GANTI TUN DR ISMAIL YANG MENINGGAL DUNIA.

Ahli kumpulan ajaran sesat Empat sahabat Kampung Kedap, Rantau Panjang Kelantan 19 Oktober 1974

1979 Tajul Ariffin mengaku Imam Mahdi.
TUN HUSSEIN ONN (1976 – 1981)
TUN MAHATHIR (1976 – 1981)

TUN MAHATHIR (1974 – 1978)
MUSA HITAM (1978 – 81)

USM Medical school (1979)
TENGKU RAZALEIGH (1976 – 1984)
19 Ogos 1979 Serangan pengikut ajaran sesat ke atas kuil hindu di Kerling.


TUN MAHATHIR
(1981 – 2003)

Me left Malaysia 1991 – 2010


 Najib Tun Razak 1983 – 86 Menteri Besar Pahang

MUSA HITAM (1981 – 86)
GHAFAR BABA (1981 – 93)
ANWAR IBRAHIM (1994 – 98)
ABDULLAH BADAWI (1998 – 2003)
MAHATHIR (1981 – 1986)
ABDULLAH BADAWI (1986 0 1987)
NAJIB RAZAK (1990 – 1995)
SYED HAMID ALBAR (1995 – 99)
NAJIB RAZAK (1999 – 2008)
2002 Scorpene sting French submarine fiasco.
SULAIMAN DAUD (1982 – 1984)
ABDULLAH BADAWI (1984 – 1986)
ANWAR IBRAHIM (1986 – 1991)
SULAIMAN DAUD (1991 – 1995)
NAJIB RAZAK (1995 – 1999)
HAJI MUSA MUHAMMAD (1999 – 2004)

1996 first privatized medical college Penang medical college followed by IMU (1999)


Anwar Ibrahim Chancellor IIUM 1983 – 1988 (when Daddy was Timbalan Rektor IIUM)
changed concept of Bahasa Malaysia to Bahasa Melayu in schools


TENGKU RAZALEIGH (1981 – 1989)
DAIM ZAINUDDIN (1985 – 1990)
ANWAR IBRAHIM (1991 – 1998)
MAHATHIR (1998 – 1999)
DAIM ZAINUDDIN (1999 – 2001)
MAHATHIR (2001 – 2003)

Anwar Ibrahim - 1990s accused Mahathir of corruption and cronyism; and disagree on how to deal with 1997 financial crisis.
Anwar jailed 1999 and conviction overturned in 2004;
Reformasi movement 1999.

1981 – 1986 TUN MUSA HITAM
1986 – 1999 TUN DR MAHATHIR MOHAMED

Agong would remain power to declare state of emergency;

1985 Peristiwa di Memali, Baling. Ibrahim Libya membawa ajaran sesat dan berlaku pertempuran berdarah.

Al Arqam 1989 – banned 1994

1987 – 1990 Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah / UMNO illegal

Mahathir crack down on judiciary and Opps lalang against opposition 1990

1997 Ayah Pin

1998 Financial crisis and defiance of IMF

1992 Battling Sultan to limit power

2002 Al Maunah – stole weapons from Army Depot. Caught and sentenced

TUN ABDULLAH BADAWI (2003 – 2009)
NAJIB (2003 – 2009)
ABDULLAH BADAWI (2008 – 2009)

HISHAMUDDIN (2004 – 2009) 2004:  Kementerian Pendidikan kepada 2 (pelajaran dan pendidikan tinggi)

Vernacular schools were set up since the time before independence; after introduction of the Malay language as national language in 1978; during 80s, 90s and more so in 2000s, there was a growing fear among the Chinese of losing their cultural identity hence vernacular schools became more popular. Studies have shown that it was due to supply and demand where parents demand good quality education; there is also a rise in international and private Islamic schools.
ABDULLAH BADAWI (2003 – 2008)
2007 Hindraf rally
NAJIB RAZAK (2009 – 2018)
1MDB from TIF funds 2009
2015 leaked reports of 1MDB and scandal
Wolf of Wall street 2013 release
MUHYIDDIN YASIN (2009 – 2015)
ZAHID HAMIDI (2015 – 2018)
ZAHID HAMIDI (2009 – 2013)
HISHAMUDDIN HUSSEIN (2013 – NOW)
MUHYIDDIN YASSIN (2009 – 2015)
MAHDZIR KHALID (2015 – NOW)

2009 – 2016 MCA push for more vernacular schools.
NAJIB (2008 – 2018)
Second sodomy allegations 2008 and Anwar Ibrahim jailed 2014.

GST 2015

National security bill, 2015 gives PM absolute power

IN SEARCH OF THIS TRUTH

  I am in a quest to search for THIS truth. People ask, 'why are you still searching for the truth?’  You have found Islam.  You believe...