I have a simple question. If Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Lim Guan Eng were still singing Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim’s praises today, do you think people would have doubts about the menteri besar’s integrity?
This question makes me think about whether we come to our opinions independently, or whether we form our opinions with a view to justifying the positions of our bosses, heroes or people we just happen to like.
No doubt some will feel I fall into the latter category, and that is eminently their right (https://www.facebook.com/notes/nathaniel-tan/the-selangor-debate-being-the-change/10152682286140879).
My feeling is, however, that Pakatan Rakyat is feeling some serious damage from the Selangor crisis, and instead of accurately admitting the source of the problems, it takes the easier route of deflecting blame towards the man who became the target of a massive mudslinging campaign -- in no small part because he is not the kind of man to hit back.
Serdang MP Ong Kian Ming is an old acquaintance and a good man of obvious intelligence. On Monday, he published an article in The Star asking Khalid: Was it worth it?
I think it was definitely worth it for Khalid to stick to his principles. We shall explore why in the rest of this article.
Ong
The third paragraph of Ong’s article asks a series of angry questions, basically implying that Khalid was at the root of this entire crisis. These questions really boil down to the first of them: Was it really worth almost breaking up Pakatan?
I found this mildly amusing given the fact that I essentially asked the same question of Anwar. In my humble judgement, it is Anwar who was willing to sacrifice Pakatan in order to make his wife menteri besar of Selangor.
Whether or not Anwar was right to pursue this path I suppose pivots on whether you think Khalid is corrupt or not.
As I have written before at length, there are two possibilities. Either Anwar created the campaign to remove Khalid because of controversies surrounding Khalid, or Anwar created controversies surrounding Khalid because he wanted to remove Khalid, and replace him with a pliant menteri besar.
Ong points to two cases in particular: the water agreement, and the Bank Islam case. I have written about each of these and more, and try my best not to repeat myself too often, but in deference to his article, I shall summarise a few points.
Khalid believes that there is a fair price for the takeover of water concessionaires in Selangor. Anwar and Rafizi Ramli seem to sympathise with their long time backer Wan Azmi Wan Hamzah and his view that his water concessionaire, SPLASH, is worth 10 times more what Khalid believes it is worth.
I have said that if Anwar can promise that the new MB of Selangor will not pay one sen above RM250 million to buy over SPLASH, that will go a long way to prove that their motivations for wanting to replace Khalid are sanguine.
Of course, neither Anwar nor any of his supporters have been able to make this promise, or answer any questions surrounding this issue. Everyone conveniently ignores it.
I believe Khalid feels a duty to the people of Selangor. That duty includes preventing cronies from plundering state funds. To lock down a fair buyover price for water concessionaires, Khalid went ahead and signed deals with the federal government.
If anyone can prove conclusively that Khalid somehow accrued unethical personal benefits from this deal, I will be the first to turn my back on Khalid.
The strategy of those accusing Khalid of corruption is akin to someone accusing me by saying: “You have cheated on your girlfriend! Now prove that you haven’t!”
How can I prove that I did not cheat on my girlfriend? Is the burden not on the accuser to prove the allegation? Would I have to provide details on every single movement of every single day in my life in order to prove the allegation untrue?
The same principle applies in the Bank Islam case. Khalid’s detractors ignore the need for solid proof, and rely on the notion that if you throw enough mud, some people will believe that some of it sticks.
Ong writes that he feels this and the water agreements are “cause enough for questioning TSKI’s loyalties”.
Well, certainly we are all free to question one another’s loyalties. Observe, however, the difference between questioning loyalties and condoning PKR’s dismissal of principles of natural justice in favour of playing judge, jury and executioner.
The reasons to remove Khalid kept changing, and often times did not make chronological sense. It does not help Ong’s case or increase confidence in his reading through of the legal documents, that the Bank Islam settlement was only finalised in July 2014, not February 2014.
We all know, however, that the Kajang Move was launched in January 2014, well before the finalisation of the water deal or the settlement of the Bank Islam case.
So again, did Anwar create the campaign to remove Khalid because of controversies surrounding Khalid, or did Anwar and gang create controversies surrounding Khalid because he wanted to remove Khalid?
This saga is hopefully coming to an end, and Khalid is increasingly a non-factor in what comes next. I had naively hoped that Pakatan would thus focus on their roads ahead and their own internal problems, but it seems that it is easier to just make Khalid a scapegoat and whipping boy for all of their crises.
Time will tell who was right. After his tenure as MB ends, we will have plenty of time to make a full accounting of Khalid’s work, both the good and the bad.
In the meantime, until the allegations against him amount to more than weak attempts at guilt by association and manipulation of circumstantial evidence, the Kajang Move is likely to have little to do with Khalid, and everything to do with making Selangor’s funds flow more freely.
Was it worth it for Khalid to take the stand he did? I can only answer for myself, and my answer is yes. It was worth it because one day, Malaysians will be able to point to at least one man and say: there is a statesman who chose what was right, instead of what was easy.
NATHANIEL TAN is delighted that the end is in sight. He tweets @NatAsasi.
Haden Hoo congratulates Nathaniel Tan for telling it like it is. Well, done, Nat!
Promoting Thinking Minds Via Rational Rationale
Showing posts with label Khalid. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Khalid. Show all posts
Thursday, 21 August 2014
Wednesday, 13 August 2014
Five refuse to acknowledge sacking from state exco
SHAH ALAM: Five sacked Selangor executive council members claim they are still "legitimate members" and will continue to perform their duties until their tenure ends or they are sacked in a proper manner.
In a joint press conference led by DAP's Datuk Teng Chang Khim, the five said their sacking was against the State Constitution, hence they were still legitimate exco members.
"By right, he (Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim) should seek an audience with the Sultan before issuing the letters.
"He was in the office the entire day on Tuesday and we received our letters at about 5.30pm signed by the Mentri Besar, saying that the Sultan had consented to our sackings.
"Khalid also could not have spoken to the Sultan about this on Monday when he met Tuanku, because he said he wanted to see if he had the support of the rest," he told reporters at the lobby of the state secretariat building.
Teng said Khalid's act of expelling the five exco members was akin to "hijacking" the state government from Pakatan Rakyat.
He reminded Khalid that he was elected as Port Klang assemblyman and pushed to be the MB by Pakatan, and should therefore do the honourable act and resign.
Asked what would happen if Khalid chose to remain in his position and appoint new exco members, Teng said Pakatan leaders could seek legal action against Khalid.
However, he replied that it was not their main aim as legal proceedings could take a long time.
"We hope he will step down gracefully to allow the development of the state to continue without any hiccups," Teng said.
Asked if action would be taken against PAS since four of its members had attended the exco meeting despite calls from PKR and DAP to boycott it, Teng said the decision would be left to Pakatan leaders.
Teng the next step it would be for the Pakatan leaders to seek an audience with the Sultan to explain the situation.
By A. Ruban, The Star
In a joint press conference led by DAP's Datuk Teng Chang Khim, the five said their sacking was against the State Constitution, hence they were still legitimate exco members.
"By right, he (Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim) should seek an audience with the Sultan before issuing the letters.
"He was in the office the entire day on Tuesday and we received our letters at about 5.30pm signed by the Mentri Besar, saying that the Sultan had consented to our sackings.
"Khalid also could not have spoken to the Sultan about this on Monday when he met Tuanku, because he said he wanted to see if he had the support of the rest," he told reporters at the lobby of the state secretariat building.
Teng said Khalid's act of expelling the five exco members was akin to "hijacking" the state government from Pakatan Rakyat.
He reminded Khalid that he was elected as Port Klang assemblyman and pushed to be the MB by Pakatan, and should therefore do the honourable act and resign.
Asked what would happen if Khalid chose to remain in his position and appoint new exco members, Teng said Pakatan leaders could seek legal action against Khalid.
However, he replied that it was not their main aim as legal proceedings could take a long time.
"We hope he will step down gracefully to allow the development of the state to continue without any hiccups," Teng said.
Asked if action would be taken against PAS since four of its members had attended the exco meeting despite calls from PKR and DAP to boycott it, Teng said the decision would be left to Pakatan leaders.
Teng the next step it would be for the Pakatan leaders to seek an audience with the Sultan to explain the situation.
By A. Ruban, The Star
Sacked: Five who Violated Pledge
Selangor Menteri Besar Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said he sacked the five PKR and DAP state executive council (exco) members as they had violated the 10-point Aku Janji (pledge).
He said the five exco members could not continue in their posts after stating that they wanted nothing to do with him.
"They said that they will only attend the exco meeting to monitor the state government and will only listen to the party's instruction.
"This goes against the 10 pledges and oath of allegiance when taking oath in front of the sultan," he added.
Khalid also explained that one of the PKR excos Rodziah Ismail has not been sacked as she is currently overseas.
-Malaysiakini- More to follow
He said the five exco members could not continue in their posts after stating that they wanted nothing to do with him.
"They said that they will only attend the exco meeting to monitor the state government and will only listen to the party's instruction.
"This goes against the 10 pledges and oath of allegiance when taking oath in front of the sultan," he added.
Khalid also explained that one of the PKR excos Rodziah Ismail has not been sacked as she is currently overseas.
-Malaysiakini- More to follow
Friday, 25 July 2014
Hadi Backs Khalid
PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang has delivered a blow to PKR by throwing his weight behind embattled Selangor Menteri Besar Khalid Ibrahim.
According to Bernama, he said Khalid had not betrayed the trust given by the people.
"That is my stand and I hope all PAS leaders are with me," he said, adding that the decision was made after considering the views of majority of the PAS grassroots.
He said majority of PAS grassroots agreed that Khalid should remain as menteri besar.
However, this would depend on the sultan of Selangor, he told reporters when met at his house in Marang, Terengganu.
PKR had nominated its president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail to replace Khalid, a move which is believed to have the backing of DAP as well.
Hadi said Khalid's track record, in helming Selangor, and retaining the state in the 13th general election could not be denied, despite problems in Pakatan Rakyat.
He said he could not accept the grounds given by some quarters in wanting Khalid to step down.
"If he is involved in a scandal, breach of trust, misappropriation of government funds, then we can change, but if it is because of other reasons, it is not by changing the menteri besar.
"Let him complete his term," he was quoted as saying.
Asked on the possibility of PAS inviting Khalid to join the party, Hadi said PAS had no intention of doing so.
"That is not our way and since the beginning, although we have 15 seats, which is more than PKR, we give PKR the menteri besar seat because we already have the (menteri besar) seat in Kelantan.
"That shows the spirit of cooperation in Pakatan Rakyat," he added.
from Malaysiakini
According to Bernama, he said Khalid had not betrayed the trust given by the people.
"That is my stand and I hope all PAS leaders are with me," he said, adding that the decision was made after considering the views of majority of the PAS grassroots.
He said majority of PAS grassroots agreed that Khalid should remain as menteri besar.
However, this would depend on the sultan of Selangor, he told reporters when met at his house in Marang, Terengganu.
PKR had nominated its president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail to replace Khalid, a move which is believed to have the backing of DAP as well.
Hadi said Khalid's track record, in helming Selangor, and retaining the state in the 13th general election could not be denied, despite problems in Pakatan Rakyat.
He said he could not accept the grounds given by some quarters in wanting Khalid to step down.
"If he is involved in a scandal, breach of trust, misappropriation of government funds, then we can change, but if it is because of other reasons, it is not by changing the menteri besar.
"Let him complete his term," he was quoted as saying.
Asked on the possibility of PAS inviting Khalid to join the party, Hadi said PAS had no intention of doing so.
"That is not our way and since the beginning, although we have 15 seats, which is more than PKR, we give PKR the menteri besar seat because we already have the (menteri besar) seat in Kelantan.
"That shows the spirit of cooperation in Pakatan Rakyat," he added.
from Malaysiakini
Wednesday, 23 April 2014
Selangor govt approves RM10 mil to build infrastructure to pump water
SHAH ALAM: The Selangor state government has approved RM10 million to build infrastructure to pump water from former tin mines into Sungai Selangor to supplement raw water supply.
Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim (pix) said installation works have begun a few days ago and the state government is targeting to supply 900 million litres a day (MLD) from nine mines.
"The allocation includes purchasing high capacity pumps (up to 50MLD) to ensure maximum effect to raise water levels at the Sungai Selangor dam," he told the press at the state secretariat today.
The system will also be used to pump water into reservoirs to ensure adequate water supply for Selangor throughout the dry season, which is expected to take place from the end of May until September.
Khalid said water rationing will only be lifted in stages when water levels at the Sungai Selangor dam goes over 40% and show a consistent upward trend.
"We want to make sure that there will be enough water supply for the public in the next five to six month where the dry season will take place," he said.
Khalid said water levels at other dams are well over 50% but they only account for a fraction of the total supply in Selangor while the Sungai Selangor dam, which supplies over 60% of water in the state, is at 38.97%.
The water pumping will be handled by the Selangor Water Management Board (Luas) and the Selangor Drainage and Irrigation Department (JPS).
Press conferences will also be held by state executive councillor of infrastructure Dr. Yunus Hairi every two days to keep the public up to date about the water situation in Selangor starting on Friday.
Khalid said he will be having a meeting with the Federation of Manufacturers Malaysian (FMM) to assuage fears that they will not have enough water to sustain their businesses.
Meanwhile, Khalid said the window for the state's four water concessionaires to take up Selangor's offer to take over water assets at RM9.65 billion will expire in the next few days.
The state government will proceed with their restructuring exercise after the offer expires and they are currently drawing up final draft documentations to implement Section 114 of the Water Services and Industries Act (WSIA).
Khalid said the state government will look into proposals of implementing rainwater harvesting but remarked that it is not an "economically interesting" policy as Malaysia has plenty of water supply.
The Sun
Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim (pix) said installation works have begun a few days ago and the state government is targeting to supply 900 million litres a day (MLD) from nine mines.
"The allocation includes purchasing high capacity pumps (up to 50MLD) to ensure maximum effect to raise water levels at the Sungai Selangor dam," he told the press at the state secretariat today.
The system will also be used to pump water into reservoirs to ensure adequate water supply for Selangor throughout the dry season, which is expected to take place from the end of May until September.
Khalid said water rationing will only be lifted in stages when water levels at the Sungai Selangor dam goes over 40% and show a consistent upward trend.
"We want to make sure that there will be enough water supply for the public in the next five to six month where the dry season will take place," he said.
Khalid said water levels at other dams are well over 50% but they only account for a fraction of the total supply in Selangor while the Sungai Selangor dam, which supplies over 60% of water in the state, is at 38.97%.
The water pumping will be handled by the Selangor Water Management Board (Luas) and the Selangor Drainage and Irrigation Department (JPS).
Press conferences will also be held by state executive councillor of infrastructure Dr. Yunus Hairi every two days to keep the public up to date about the water situation in Selangor starting on Friday.
Khalid said he will be having a meeting with the Federation of Manufacturers Malaysian (FMM) to assuage fears that they will not have enough water to sustain their businesses.
Meanwhile, Khalid said the window for the state's four water concessionaires to take up Selangor's offer to take over water assets at RM9.65 billion will expire in the next few days.
The state government will proceed with their restructuring exercise after the offer expires and they are currently drawing up final draft documentations to implement Section 114 of the Water Services and Industries Act (WSIA).
Khalid said the state government will look into proposals of implementing rainwater harvesting but remarked that it is not an "economically interesting" policy as Malaysia has plenty of water supply.
The Sun
Monday, 14 April 2014
A Two-Horse Race?
PETALING JAYA: The fight for Parti Keadilan Rakyat's (PKR) deputy president's post is expected to end up effectively a two-horse race between incumbent Azmin Ali and Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim.
Someone within the party is lobbying for another contender, secretary-general Datuk Saifuddin Nasution, to withdraw from the contest to avoid splitting Abdul Khalid's votes, China Press reported, quoting a PKR source.
The source said the fourth candidate, K. Ramachandram, will not have any bearing on the outcome. "Azmin stands to gain from a split in opposing votes in a four-cornered fight.
"If Saifuddin withdraws, those who don't support Azmin will vote for Khalid," the source said, pointing out that the party is divided into two camps, with one supporting Azmin and the other against him.
Given that more than half the party members are against Azmin, the incumbent may lose in a one-on-one clash, sources speculate.
However, there were also reports that Saifuddin is now stronger than Khalid, having succeeded in lobbying for the support of vice-presidents Tian Chua and Nurul Izzah Anwar. This raised the question of who among the two – Saifuddin and Khalid – should give way.
There was also talk that Azmin had been hand-picked by the top leadership to keep his No. 2 post, in return for not contesting the top post.
However, Azmin said he did not go for the president's post because he has no reason to challenge either de factor leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim or incumbent president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
China Press also reported that Tian Chua, Nurul Izzah and another incumbent, Kuantan MP Fuziah Salleh, are expected to retain their posts in the 15-cornered vice-presidential clash. The slot vacated by Datuk Dr Mansor Othman is expected to be won by strategy director Rafizi Ramli.
By Kong See Hoh, The Sun
Someone within the party is lobbying for another contender, secretary-general Datuk Saifuddin Nasution, to withdraw from the contest to avoid splitting Abdul Khalid's votes, China Press reported, quoting a PKR source.
The source said the fourth candidate, K. Ramachandram, will not have any bearing on the outcome. "Azmin stands to gain from a split in opposing votes in a four-cornered fight.
"If Saifuddin withdraws, those who don't support Azmin will vote for Khalid," the source said, pointing out that the party is divided into two camps, with one supporting Azmin and the other against him.
Given that more than half the party members are against Azmin, the incumbent may lose in a one-on-one clash, sources speculate.
However, there were also reports that Saifuddin is now stronger than Khalid, having succeeded in lobbying for the support of vice-presidents Tian Chua and Nurul Izzah Anwar. This raised the question of who among the two – Saifuddin and Khalid – should give way.
There was also talk that Azmin had been hand-picked by the top leadership to keep his No. 2 post, in return for not contesting the top post.
However, Azmin said he did not go for the president's post because he has no reason to challenge either de factor leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim or incumbent president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.
China Press also reported that Tian Chua, Nurul Izzah and another incumbent, Kuantan MP Fuziah Salleh, are expected to retain their posts in the 15-cornered vice-presidential clash. The slot vacated by Datuk Dr Mansor Othman is expected to be won by strategy director Rafizi Ramli.
By Kong See Hoh, The Sun
Monday, 31 March 2014
New Scandal on the Blog
With the attention on MH370, it would be easy to miss this excellent post by a blogger.
It's a bit lengthy but worth your reading time.
CLICK HERE to read all about it! Riveting!
It's a bit lengthy but worth your reading time.
CLICK HERE to read all about it! Riveting!
Saturday, 8 March 2014
Wrong Choice?
PKR has chosen Menteri Besar and Port Klang state assemblyman Khalid Ibrahim as the election director for the Kajang by-election which has its nomination day fixed for March 11 and polling day on March 23.
However a few of this columnist’s PAS friends have some reservations about Khalid’s ability to run the show.
And here’s why: it is due to his sloppy running of the Hulu Selangor by-election four years ago in April 2010 when he was the election director.
In that by-election, Zaid Ibrahim was contesting for PKR against MIC’s P Kamalanathan. The MIC man won by over 1,700 votes. Previously the seat was won by a PKR man in the March 8, 2008 general election. He passed away due to cancer.
In the Hulu Selangor polls, Khalid lacked organisational skills.
This columnist’s PAS friends mentioned that members of Gombak PAS and Selayang PAS had to be roped in to put up PKR flags!
Many of these PAS members were out of pocket due to travelling expenses. The organisation of ceramahs was also messy. There was no proper scheduling, only last minute planning.
In one instance, only Azmin Ali (Gombak MP), Nurul Izzah Anwar (Lembah Pantai MP) and a group of Pakatan Rakyat supporters turned up. Eventually the ceramah had to be cancelled due to lack of audience. It was embarrassing indeed.
This happened because there was no publicity done to promote the ceramah. No one came because no one knew about it.
This was in contrast to the Sibu by-election held in May 2010 which was won by DAP.
It is not a boast but a fact that DAP’s ceramahs in Sibu were well-organised and well-attended because DAP’s Tony Pua (Petaling Jaya Utara MP) had given good publicity to the DAP ceramahs.
Word-of-mouth, flyers and social media were utilised to inform the public one day in advance on the time, date and location of the ceramahs.
In the ceramah itself, announcements would also be made to inform the rakyat about the next ceramah programmes. The planning and organisation was good.
Back to Khalid. He was inefficient in Hulu Selangor. Not many programmes were arranged for the PKR candidate to promote himself.
Khalid must stay focused
Groundwork was faulty and chaotic. Pakatan grassroots members were running around calling for assistance and reinforcements due to lack of organisation and manpower.
One of this columnist’s PKR friends who worked for their party newsletter ‘Suara Keadilan’ had mentioned that Khalid will never be selected as election director again but lo and behold, now he is!
His party leaders must have forgotten about the fiasco in Hulu Selangor wherein Khalid was totally inept as the election director.
The Selangor Menteri Besar must thus redeem himself by being an organiser par excellence this time around. He can be said to be fortunate because Kajang is not as large as Hulu Selangor as it is only a state seat whereas Hulu Selangor is a parliamentary seat.
Khalid must now strive harder to plan properly. Bigger and better publicity must be given in advance for the ceramahs that are to be held.
Organisation must be precise and efficient. Ceramahs must start on time, failing which a 15 minute wait is not too bad, 30 minutes is already stretching people’s patience. Voters must not be kept waiting for too long. It is a test of one’s organisational skills.
It is also a good thing that PAS Unit Amal can be counted upon to help out in traffic control and security.
In Hulu Selangor four years ago it was chaotic for PKR. There was no proper theme focus and tagline for the by-election campaign and therefore the content of the ceramahs was ‘rojak’. There must be a focus theme in the message to be given to the voters.
In Kajang this time around, PKR must impress upon the voters that their vote is not only for Kajang but that their decision on the ballot paper is also representing the voice of all Malaysians.
The voters must be made to understand that the outcome of the Kajang by-election is not confined to Kajang only but has implications for the whole country’s political landscape.
Menteri Besar Khalid had better be up to the mark as the election director.
He definitely has got his work cut out for him. Granted that it is not an easy job but people will be watching him closely.
He has to be focused, clear-minded and be able to multi-task at all times. He has to be like an army commander. Will he be able to pass the test this time around?
By Selena Tay, FMT
However a few of this columnist’s PAS friends have some reservations about Khalid’s ability to run the show.
And here’s why: it is due to his sloppy running of the Hulu Selangor by-election four years ago in April 2010 when he was the election director.
In that by-election, Zaid Ibrahim was contesting for PKR against MIC’s P Kamalanathan. The MIC man won by over 1,700 votes. Previously the seat was won by a PKR man in the March 8, 2008 general election. He passed away due to cancer.
In the Hulu Selangor polls, Khalid lacked organisational skills.
This columnist’s PAS friends mentioned that members of Gombak PAS and Selayang PAS had to be roped in to put up PKR flags!
Many of these PAS members were out of pocket due to travelling expenses. The organisation of ceramahs was also messy. There was no proper scheduling, only last minute planning.
In one instance, only Azmin Ali (Gombak MP), Nurul Izzah Anwar (Lembah Pantai MP) and a group of Pakatan Rakyat supporters turned up. Eventually the ceramah had to be cancelled due to lack of audience. It was embarrassing indeed.
This happened because there was no publicity done to promote the ceramah. No one came because no one knew about it.
This was in contrast to the Sibu by-election held in May 2010 which was won by DAP.
It is not a boast but a fact that DAP’s ceramahs in Sibu were well-organised and well-attended because DAP’s Tony Pua (Petaling Jaya Utara MP) had given good publicity to the DAP ceramahs.
Word-of-mouth, flyers and social media were utilised to inform the public one day in advance on the time, date and location of the ceramahs.
In the ceramah itself, announcements would also be made to inform the rakyat about the next ceramah programmes. The planning and organisation was good.
Back to Khalid. He was inefficient in Hulu Selangor. Not many programmes were arranged for the PKR candidate to promote himself.
Khalid must stay focused
Groundwork was faulty and chaotic. Pakatan grassroots members were running around calling for assistance and reinforcements due to lack of organisation and manpower.
One of this columnist’s PKR friends who worked for their party newsletter ‘Suara Keadilan’ had mentioned that Khalid will never be selected as election director again but lo and behold, now he is!
His party leaders must have forgotten about the fiasco in Hulu Selangor wherein Khalid was totally inept as the election director.
The Selangor Menteri Besar must thus redeem himself by being an organiser par excellence this time around. He can be said to be fortunate because Kajang is not as large as Hulu Selangor as it is only a state seat whereas Hulu Selangor is a parliamentary seat.
Khalid must now strive harder to plan properly. Bigger and better publicity must be given in advance for the ceramahs that are to be held.
Organisation must be precise and efficient. Ceramahs must start on time, failing which a 15 minute wait is not too bad, 30 minutes is already stretching people’s patience. Voters must not be kept waiting for too long. It is a test of one’s organisational skills.
It is also a good thing that PAS Unit Amal can be counted upon to help out in traffic control and security.
In Hulu Selangor four years ago it was chaotic for PKR. There was no proper theme focus and tagline for the by-election campaign and therefore the content of the ceramahs was ‘rojak’. There must be a focus theme in the message to be given to the voters.
In Kajang this time around, PKR must impress upon the voters that their vote is not only for Kajang but that their decision on the ballot paper is also representing the voice of all Malaysians.
The voters must be made to understand that the outcome of the Kajang by-election is not confined to Kajang only but has implications for the whole country’s political landscape.
Menteri Besar Khalid had better be up to the mark as the election director.
He definitely has got his work cut out for him. Granted that it is not an easy job but people will be watching him closely.
He has to be focused, clear-minded and be able to multi-task at all times. He has to be like an army commander. Will he be able to pass the test this time around?
By Selena Tay, FMT
Thursday, 6 March 2014
Khalid says he will remain as MB if accepted by all
Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim (pic) says he wants to keep the Selangor Mentri Besar post after the Kajang by-election on March 23, "if he is accepted" by all parties.
Speculation has been rife that opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was contesting the by-election to eventually replace Khalid as the MB in order to sort the problems between the state government and Selangor PKR.
"God willing, if I am accepted by everyone, I will continue to be Menteri Besar," Khalid said in a TV3-organised programme aired last night. The show was taped two days ago.
According to the second-term MB, he is not bothered by those who are unhappy with his administration as he was used to such matters even before delving into politics.
He gave an example of his involvement in business, that although there were many who were not satisfied with the decisions he had made, but in the end, he was the one who reaped the benefits.
"In my years of working experience, the word 'unsatisfied' was not only said today. When I took over Guthrie, many were unsatisfied but I was satisfied.
"When I look over estates in Indonesia, many were unhappy. But at the end of the day, I am happy," he added.
Last week, Khalid signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the federal government, allowing Selangor to take over four water concessionaires in the state by injecting RM2 billion for the shares.
Khalid was highly criticised over the agreement with Putrajaya as many top PKR members including Anwar claimed that they were unaware of the MoU.
PKR strategic director Rafizi Ramli then urged the MB to reveal the contents of the MoU while party deputy president Azmin Ali said there was no reason for Khalid to be afraid of the Official Secrets Act to disclose the terms in the document.
Khalid said PKR's openness as a reformation party allows anyone to speak their minds out and disagree with one another.
He said a leader had to be confident and understand what he is doing in order to be able to explain his actions to the people.
"You must understand… we are a reformed party. Everyone is free to speak up.
"If we believe and understand what we are doing, we can answer everything. It could be that they are just looking at the Langat 2 project. But we are looking at it as a whole. That can be explained," he said in the interview, which was chaired by Datuk Johan Jaafar.
Speaking about the water restructuring agreement in Selangor, Khalid said the negotiation is something that the people had been waiting for as they were not burdened with the increase in water tariff.
He said, with the MoU, the state government was looking at an increase of not more than 12% every three years.
"The people of Selangor asked me to do this. If I hadn't, they would have to pay RM1.70 from the current RM1. Of course they were waiting for this.
"An increase of not more than 112% every three years is considered reasonable compared to other states or in other parts of the world," he said.
In the hour-long interview, Khalid reiterated his position that the MoU signed with Putrajaya cannot be amended even if he steps down as the Menteri Besar.
He said the position of a state or a country will be dented and will not be respected if the sealed agreement is not implemented.
"The agreement between the federal government and the state cannot be amended because when a deal is made, we must see it through.
"It does not matter who is representing the state or country. If it is not done, the ranking of a nation will not improve because it did not keep to its promise," he added.
Khalid denied Johan's statement that the restructuring of the water concession companies is a form of nationalisation.
He said the state government has not forced shareholders in concession companies but instead is paying them with a reasonable profit.
"I don't think nationalisation happened in this matter, as nationalisation is where we pressure shareholders. But this one, we are paying them accordingly," he added.
In the interview, which was also attended by Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Maximus Ongkili, Khalid also announced that the state government was now in the midst of planning the development of a dam with a new water technology system.
He said the Hybrid Off-River Augmentation System (Horas) was developed to flow water from rivers so that more dams could be used for raw water.
"We are beginning to see how water sources in Selangor, where even if there was a lot of rain, we don't have water. That is why I began a better negotiation with the federal government. We will find other water sources such as Horas.
"This area will also allow underground water to be used, giving us a larger amount of raw water than the amount brought from Pahang," he said, adding that the technology could be used up to 2050. – March 6, 2014.
Source: The Malaysian Insider
Speculation has been rife that opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was contesting the by-election to eventually replace Khalid as the MB in order to sort the problems between the state government and Selangor PKR.
"God willing, if I am accepted by everyone, I will continue to be Menteri Besar," Khalid said in a TV3-organised programme aired last night. The show was taped two days ago.
According to the second-term MB, he is not bothered by those who are unhappy with his administration as he was used to such matters even before delving into politics.
He gave an example of his involvement in business, that although there were many who were not satisfied with the decisions he had made, but in the end, he was the one who reaped the benefits.
"In my years of working experience, the word 'unsatisfied' was not only said today. When I took over Guthrie, many were unsatisfied but I was satisfied.
"When I look over estates in Indonesia, many were unhappy. But at the end of the day, I am happy," he added.
Last week, Khalid signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the federal government, allowing Selangor to take over four water concessionaires in the state by injecting RM2 billion for the shares.
Khalid was highly criticised over the agreement with Putrajaya as many top PKR members including Anwar claimed that they were unaware of the MoU.
PKR strategic director Rafizi Ramli then urged the MB to reveal the contents of the MoU while party deputy president Azmin Ali said there was no reason for Khalid to be afraid of the Official Secrets Act to disclose the terms in the document.
Khalid said PKR's openness as a reformation party allows anyone to speak their minds out and disagree with one another.
He said a leader had to be confident and understand what he is doing in order to be able to explain his actions to the people.
"You must understand… we are a reformed party. Everyone is free to speak up.
"If we believe and understand what we are doing, we can answer everything. It could be that they are just looking at the Langat 2 project. But we are looking at it as a whole. That can be explained," he said in the interview, which was chaired by Datuk Johan Jaafar.
Speaking about the water restructuring agreement in Selangor, Khalid said the negotiation is something that the people had been waiting for as they were not burdened with the increase in water tariff.
He said, with the MoU, the state government was looking at an increase of not more than 12% every three years.
"The people of Selangor asked me to do this. If I hadn't, they would have to pay RM1.70 from the current RM1. Of course they were waiting for this.
"An increase of not more than 112% every three years is considered reasonable compared to other states or in other parts of the world," he said.
In the hour-long interview, Khalid reiterated his position that the MoU signed with Putrajaya cannot be amended even if he steps down as the Menteri Besar.
He said the position of a state or a country will be dented and will not be respected if the sealed agreement is not implemented.
"The agreement between the federal government and the state cannot be amended because when a deal is made, we must see it through.
"It does not matter who is representing the state or country. If it is not done, the ranking of a nation will not improve because it did not keep to its promise," he added.
Khalid denied Johan's statement that the restructuring of the water concession companies is a form of nationalisation.
He said the state government has not forced shareholders in concession companies but instead is paying them with a reasonable profit.
"I don't think nationalisation happened in this matter, as nationalisation is where we pressure shareholders. But this one, we are paying them accordingly," he added.
In the interview, which was also attended by Energy, Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Maximus Ongkili, Khalid also announced that the state government was now in the midst of planning the development of a dam with a new water technology system.
He said the Hybrid Off-River Augmentation System (Horas) was developed to flow water from rivers so that more dams could be used for raw water.
"We are beginning to see how water sources in Selangor, where even if there was a lot of rain, we don't have water. That is why I began a better negotiation with the federal government. We will find other water sources such as Horas.
"This area will also allow underground water to be used, giving us a larger amount of raw water than the amount brought from Pahang," he said, adding that the technology could be used up to 2050. – March 6, 2014.
Source: The Malaysian Insider
Wednesday, 5 March 2014
Khalid’s ‘sleight of hand’ in water deal set to embarrass Rafizi?
Could PKR strategic director Rafizi Ramli be jumping the gun in putting pressure on Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim to disclose terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Putrajaya on the state’s water restructuring exercise?
Khalid has gained a reputation for making calculated decisions on his own terms and it appears that his handling of the entire water deal, in negotiations since 2008, is no different.
Rafizi had on March 3 revealed a draft copy of the MoU and expressed concerns over the terms which he described as being “lopsided” and potentially illegal, warning that it could result in a water tariff hike in the state.
Khalid, however, later the same day described Rafizi's figures as being based on his “own assumptions” and contradicted data from the National Water Services Commission (SPAN).
In response to mounting pressure for him to reveal terms of the MoU, Khalid maintained that the document is bound under the Official Secrets Act 1976 but he would do so in due time after obtaining “permission” from Putrajaya.
Khalid had on March 4 met with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and he subsequently confirmed today (March 5) that the Selangor state government will draft another agreement with Putrajaya to incorporate further details regarding the water deal.
In a press conference after chairing the weekly state executive-council meeting today (March 5), online portal MalaysiaKini reported Khalid as saying that he is not interested to comment further on Rafizi’s allegations, as there is no proof, and would instead concentrate on the soon to be inked new deal.
Following Rafizi’s disclosure of the draft MoU, Khalid’s critics had insisted that he “comes clean” over the matter in the name of upholding transparency as well as to dispute rumours that he had used the water deal to broker a personal settlement over his reported debt with Bank Islam.
Under the initial MoU, Selangor will have full control over the operations of four water concessionaires - Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor Bhd (Syabas), Puncak Niaga Sdn Bhd (PNSB), Konsortium Abbas Sdn Bhd and Syarikat Pengeluar Air Selangor Holdings Bhd (Splash) - and will place these under the state-owned Kumpulan Darul Ehsan Sdn Bhd (KDEB).
All four water concessionaires has also been given until March 10 to accept the state’s offer of RM9.65 billion and the state government, in return, would issue necessary approvals to facilitate construction of the Langat 2 water treatment plant.
TheMalayMailOnline also reported Khalid as saying that the new agreement, to be signed as soon as possible, will be drafted by both the Energy, Green Technology and Water Ministry and state-owned Kumpulan Darul Ehsan Sdn Bhd (KDEB).
“The federal government has agreed to sign a heads of agreement with the Selangor government, which contains a more comprehensive and detailed agreement on Selangor’s water restructuring plans.
“These developments show the commitment by both parties towards the MoU signed last week,” he added.
While PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim himself had reportedly said that he could not stop Rafizi from making public his concerns over the water deal, Khalid’s subsequent responses would make it appear as if the Pandan MP is being, for the lack of a more accurate English word, “menggelabah” (over-reacting to the situation).
Instead of responding to Rafizi, Khalid appears to have his own game plan in handling the water issue, even taking the unprecedented step of granting an interview to public broadcaster TV3.
It would also appear that Khalid is genuinely not interested in politicising the whole water issue and would rather take concrete steps towards fulfilling his promise of bringing about a long-term solution for the state.
Source: The Ant Daily
Tuesday, 4 March 2014
Khalid disrupts Anwar's plan?
Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim will contest the PKR deputy president post, challenging Azmin Ali in the party election. It seems like he is not willing to just let go his menteri besar post and thus, goes all out to give it a try.
From the evolution of the event, Khalid's attitude has indeed changed.
Anwar told Sin Chew Daily in an exclusive interview that Khalid had in principle agreed to pass on the MB post to him, but Khalid has said nothing about it.
In mid-Feb, it was said that Khalid refused to resign. He had originally been arranged to sign a post-dated letter of resignation but he refused to sign. When being asked to comment on a poll showing 59% of Kajang voters supported Anwar to take over the Selangor menteri besar post, Khalid had just responded causally and said that it was just a poll.
In fact, making the Kajang state seat vacant to pave the way for Anwar to become the Selangor menteri besar was not the original intention of Khalid. It was reported that there was an agreement among Anwar, Azmin and Khalid before the resignation of Lee Chin Cheh. The trio agreed that Azmin should first resign as the Bukit Antarabangsa state assembly member to create a by-election, so that Anwar could contest for the vacant post and become the Selangor menteri besar after winning the by-election. However, Lee was the one who resigned eventually and the agreement collapsed.
It showed that Khalid has been pressed and if he has no intention to step down, he is expected to fight back fiercely. His wishful thinking is to win the party election and thereby, continues his political life.
He chose to declare challenge against Azmin before the by-election to convey the message that he does not yield.
It seems that Khalid has determined to get rid of the party's control as he has inked the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the federal government over the water supply issue without notifying in advance the party's leaders. It has, however, triggered a doubt among Pakatan Rakyat component parties. As the content of the MoU has been kept in secret, it raised a question of lack of transparency. Would the Langat 2 Project be contracted to cronies and would the cost for water restructuring be increased?
Khalid said that the reason to keep the MoU confidential is to avoid the intervention of some PKR leaders. If his allegations are true, these leaders have violated the commitment of defending the people's interests as increasing the RM9.65 billion purchase price will benefit the water supply company.
In fact, Anwar and Azmin cannot blame Khalid for acting on his own as when they planned for the Kajang by-election, they did not discuss with the DAP and PAS either. Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng had admitted that he received no prior notice about it.
The script written by Anwar is to settle the Selangor PKR infighting and march towards Putrajaya. The subsequent development, however, has gone out of the script. Khalid, who is gentle and does not know politics, might become the biggest obstacle.
It is believed that Anwar could win the by-election. But if Khalid refuses to step down, Pakatan Rakyat would have to decide who should be the menteri besar through an internal poll. Does PAS have another plan? Would PKR state assembly members supporting Khalid change their direction?
The PKR party election has been postponed to May 11. If the party election is going to decide Khalid's fate, the issue will continue to haunt the party for over a month after the Kajang by-election and it is not conducive to the operation of the state government.
Anwar's wife Datin Seri Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and daughter Nurul Izzah are seen to tend to support Khalid while Anwar has been relying too much on Azmin. If the party election leads to a split, it would be devastating to the Selangor state government.
Although Khalid claimed that his track record gives him advantage over Azmin, party election depends on grassroots forces, which he is relatively weak compared to Azmin.
Meanwhile, the Selangor water supply agreement might also detonate an internal conflict. After all, politics has no way to get rid of partisan interests.
After the 2013 general election, despite the weaker cohesion, the overall situation has remained favourable for Pakatan Rakyat, particularly the BN has failed to effectively manage the national debt and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has been facing internal pressure. However, the chaos in Selangor might give the BN an opportunity to divert attention.
Pakatan Rakyat could keep Kajang, but it must ensure that it causes no damage to public confidence. As DAP Parliament leader Lim Kit Siang said, "A House divided cannot stand." Pakatan Rakyat must overcome the big trouble or everything that looks good might turn out as only an illusion.
By LIM SUE GOAN
Translated by SOONG PHUI JEE
Sin Chew Daily
From the evolution of the event, Khalid's attitude has indeed changed.
Anwar told Sin Chew Daily in an exclusive interview that Khalid had in principle agreed to pass on the MB post to him, but Khalid has said nothing about it.
In mid-Feb, it was said that Khalid refused to resign. He had originally been arranged to sign a post-dated letter of resignation but he refused to sign. When being asked to comment on a poll showing 59% of Kajang voters supported Anwar to take over the Selangor menteri besar post, Khalid had just responded causally and said that it was just a poll.
In fact, making the Kajang state seat vacant to pave the way for Anwar to become the Selangor menteri besar was not the original intention of Khalid. It was reported that there was an agreement among Anwar, Azmin and Khalid before the resignation of Lee Chin Cheh. The trio agreed that Azmin should first resign as the Bukit Antarabangsa state assembly member to create a by-election, so that Anwar could contest for the vacant post and become the Selangor menteri besar after winning the by-election. However, Lee was the one who resigned eventually and the agreement collapsed.
It showed that Khalid has been pressed and if he has no intention to step down, he is expected to fight back fiercely. His wishful thinking is to win the party election and thereby, continues his political life.
He chose to declare challenge against Azmin before the by-election to convey the message that he does not yield.
It seems that Khalid has determined to get rid of the party's control as he has inked the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the federal government over the water supply issue without notifying in advance the party's leaders. It has, however, triggered a doubt among Pakatan Rakyat component parties. As the content of the MoU has been kept in secret, it raised a question of lack of transparency. Would the Langat 2 Project be contracted to cronies and would the cost for water restructuring be increased?
Khalid said that the reason to keep the MoU confidential is to avoid the intervention of some PKR leaders. If his allegations are true, these leaders have violated the commitment of defending the people's interests as increasing the RM9.65 billion purchase price will benefit the water supply company.
In fact, Anwar and Azmin cannot blame Khalid for acting on his own as when they planned for the Kajang by-election, they did not discuss with the DAP and PAS either. Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng had admitted that he received no prior notice about it.
The script written by Anwar is to settle the Selangor PKR infighting and march towards Putrajaya. The subsequent development, however, has gone out of the script. Khalid, who is gentle and does not know politics, might become the biggest obstacle.
It is believed that Anwar could win the by-election. But if Khalid refuses to step down, Pakatan Rakyat would have to decide who should be the menteri besar through an internal poll. Does PAS have another plan? Would PKR state assembly members supporting Khalid change their direction?
The PKR party election has been postponed to May 11. If the party election is going to decide Khalid's fate, the issue will continue to haunt the party for over a month after the Kajang by-election and it is not conducive to the operation of the state government.
Anwar's wife Datin Seri Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and daughter Nurul Izzah are seen to tend to support Khalid while Anwar has been relying too much on Azmin. If the party election leads to a split, it would be devastating to the Selangor state government.
Although Khalid claimed that his track record gives him advantage over Azmin, party election depends on grassroots forces, which he is relatively weak compared to Azmin.
Meanwhile, the Selangor water supply agreement might also detonate an internal conflict. After all, politics has no way to get rid of partisan interests.
After the 2013 general election, despite the weaker cohesion, the overall situation has remained favourable for Pakatan Rakyat, particularly the BN has failed to effectively manage the national debt and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has been facing internal pressure. However, the chaos in Selangor might give the BN an opportunity to divert attention.
Pakatan Rakyat could keep Kajang, but it must ensure that it causes no damage to public confidence. As DAP Parliament leader Lim Kit Siang said, "A House divided cannot stand." Pakatan Rakyat must overcome the big trouble or everything that looks good might turn out as only an illusion.
By LIM SUE GOAN
Translated by SOONG PHUI JEE
Sin Chew Daily
Sunday, 2 March 2014
The Tai Chi Master Fights Back
SELANGOR Mentri Besar Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim has often been portrayed as a master of political tai chi by friends and foes in the PKR.
When his supporters talk about his tai chi, they are referring to his low-profile yet controlled approach to achieving what he wants to do. But when adversaries say that Khalid is a tai chi master, they are probably referring to how he often out-manoeuvres others with his slowly-slowly style.
Khalid’s tai chi politics has been in full bloom the last few weeks.
For instance, the water agreement between the state and federal governments last week apparently caught his Pakatan Rakyat colleagues by surprise. His refusal to resign as Mentri Besar has also put his party, especially Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in a quandary.
But the trail of clues and red herrings leading to the announcement that he was going for the PKR deputy president’s post was perhaps the most classic of Khalid’s tai chi politics.
On Friday afternoon, reporters got wind of an SMS indicating that Khalid would declare his candidature at a party gathering at the Mentri Besar’s official residence in Shah Alam on Friday evening. There was a scramble to get there as conflicting reports about whether he would or would not be making an announcement flew back and forth.
The man himself kept everyone guessing till the very end and when it finally came, his supporters were relieved as well as elated.
“We gave him the greenlight to move but he was reluctant to announce it because of Kajang. I think he only decided to announce when he was standing on the stage,” said Pandan division chief Zakaria Rahim.
The last one month has been akin to a rollercoaster ride for Khalid. His career looked like it was over when the Kajang Move was revealed. But his supporters rallied around him, they told him not to resign and now they are set to help him in his deputy presidential bid.
“He is clean, he’s not into any of that crony nonsense. That’s why we are here for him,” said Kuala Langat chief David K.Y. Cheong.
The man whom some in the PKR had dismissed as having “no political skills” is about to make his debut in big-time PKR politics.
The party’s division or cabang elections will start this month followed by the national congress in April to elect the national leadership.
Khalid’s move spells a head-on collision with his arch rival Azmin Ali who is seeking a second term as deputy president. It is also seen as his way of telling the powerful Selangor party chief to stop eyeing the Mentri Besar post.
It is obvious that his decision is also aimed at strengthening his hold on the Mentri Besar post despite his repeated appeal throughout his Friday night speech that the top most priority of everyone in the party is to help Anwar secure the Kajang seat.
He wants to help Anwar win Kajang but there is no way he is stepping aside for Anwar to become the Mentri Besar.
His political secretary Azman Abidin was quite direct about the whole thing.
“We decided long ago that Tan Sri must contest the post. It was a matter of when to announce it,” he said.
His supporters had told him that they cannot help to “sell him”, as they put it, if he does not declare his interest in the post. They told him that they need to start now because Azmin is tough to fight.
The gathering was also a show of strength on Khalid’s part. A total of eight PKR division chiefs from Selangor as well as about a dozen division chiefs from Perak and Negri Sembilan were present.
Apparently, his supporters had begun pressuring him as early as after the general election when there was the usual politicking over his reappointment as Mentri Besar.
They told him that the perception in the party is that he had a red carpet walk into the Mentri Besar’s office while others had to fight for a party position before they got any government posts.
“They said he is picking the fruits from the tree of our election success without having to water the plants,” said an aide.
One of the reasons holding Khalid back actually had to do with his interpretation of the advice he received from the Palace after becoming Mentri Besar. The Sultan had advised him to focus on the state administration rather than on politics and Khalid had heeded the advice seriously.
But he is now convinced that he needs to tackle party politics in order to ensure stability in the Selangor administration.
“There is a momentum for Khalid. He is riding on it,” said PKR’s Dr Aziz Bari.
There is, however, a danger to equating the top party post with that of a top government position.
If he loses to Azmin, would that mean that the party prefers Azmin as the Selangor Mentri Besar? Or would Anwar then use it as grounds to elbow him aside and claim the Mentri Besar post for himself?
Khalid is taking a huge risk but as they say, no risk, no gain.
The tai chi man wore a big grin throughout the evening although it had been an awfully long day for him. Shortly before the gathering, he had chaired a session to brief Pakatan politicians on the water deal. Some were satisfied with the explanation, some were not. But the noisiest critics of the water agreement failed to turn up for the briefing.
Khalid, the man whom some in his party had labelled a “lousy politician”, is about to enter the most political phase of his career.
By Joceline Tan, The Star
When his supporters talk about his tai chi, they are referring to his low-profile yet controlled approach to achieving what he wants to do. But when adversaries say that Khalid is a tai chi master, they are probably referring to how he often out-manoeuvres others with his slowly-slowly style.
Khalid’s tai chi politics has been in full bloom the last few weeks.
For instance, the water agreement between the state and federal governments last week apparently caught his Pakatan Rakyat colleagues by surprise. His refusal to resign as Mentri Besar has also put his party, especially Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in a quandary.
But the trail of clues and red herrings leading to the announcement that he was going for the PKR deputy president’s post was perhaps the most classic of Khalid’s tai chi politics.
On Friday afternoon, reporters got wind of an SMS indicating that Khalid would declare his candidature at a party gathering at the Mentri Besar’s official residence in Shah Alam on Friday evening. There was a scramble to get there as conflicting reports about whether he would or would not be making an announcement flew back and forth.
The man himself kept everyone guessing till the very end and when it finally came, his supporters were relieved as well as elated.
“We gave him the greenlight to move but he was reluctant to announce it because of Kajang. I think he only decided to announce when he was standing on the stage,” said Pandan division chief Zakaria Rahim.
The last one month has been akin to a rollercoaster ride for Khalid. His career looked like it was over when the Kajang Move was revealed. But his supporters rallied around him, they told him not to resign and now they are set to help him in his deputy presidential bid.
“He is clean, he’s not into any of that crony nonsense. That’s why we are here for him,” said Kuala Langat chief David K.Y. Cheong.
The man whom some in the PKR had dismissed as having “no political skills” is about to make his debut in big-time PKR politics.
The party’s division or cabang elections will start this month followed by the national congress in April to elect the national leadership.
Khalid’s move spells a head-on collision with his arch rival Azmin Ali who is seeking a second term as deputy president. It is also seen as his way of telling the powerful Selangor party chief to stop eyeing the Mentri Besar post.
It is obvious that his decision is also aimed at strengthening his hold on the Mentri Besar post despite his repeated appeal throughout his Friday night speech that the top most priority of everyone in the party is to help Anwar secure the Kajang seat.
He wants to help Anwar win Kajang but there is no way he is stepping aside for Anwar to become the Mentri Besar.
His political secretary Azman Abidin was quite direct about the whole thing.
“We decided long ago that Tan Sri must contest the post. It was a matter of when to announce it,” he said.
His supporters had told him that they cannot help to “sell him”, as they put it, if he does not declare his interest in the post. They told him that they need to start now because Azmin is tough to fight.
The gathering was also a show of strength on Khalid’s part. A total of eight PKR division chiefs from Selangor as well as about a dozen division chiefs from Perak and Negri Sembilan were present.
Apparently, his supporters had begun pressuring him as early as after the general election when there was the usual politicking over his reappointment as Mentri Besar.
They told him that the perception in the party is that he had a red carpet walk into the Mentri Besar’s office while others had to fight for a party position before they got any government posts.
“They said he is picking the fruits from the tree of our election success without having to water the plants,” said an aide.
One of the reasons holding Khalid back actually had to do with his interpretation of the advice he received from the Palace after becoming Mentri Besar. The Sultan had advised him to focus on the state administration rather than on politics and Khalid had heeded the advice seriously.
But he is now convinced that he needs to tackle party politics in order to ensure stability in the Selangor administration.
“There is a momentum for Khalid. He is riding on it,” said PKR’s Dr Aziz Bari.
There is, however, a danger to equating the top party post with that of a top government position.
If he loses to Azmin, would that mean that the party prefers Azmin as the Selangor Mentri Besar? Or would Anwar then use it as grounds to elbow him aside and claim the Mentri Besar post for himself?
Khalid is taking a huge risk but as they say, no risk, no gain.
The tai chi man wore a big grin throughout the evening although it had been an awfully long day for him. Shortly before the gathering, he had chaired a session to brief Pakatan politicians on the water deal. Some were satisfied with the explanation, some were not. But the noisiest critics of the water agreement failed to turn up for the briefing.
Khalid, the man whom some in his party had labelled a “lousy politician”, is about to enter the most political phase of his career.
By Joceline Tan, The Star
Khalid: No Regrets Excluding Anwar
HULU LANGAT - Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim denied today he regrets excluding Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim from the newly-signed water deal between Selangor and Putrajaya.
The Selangor mentri besar said he had to keep the deal secret to prevent insider trading, which would have then inflated the original offer price.
“Anwar represents Selangor folk. I too represent Selangor folk. What is most important is we find the best way to implement it.
“Selangor folk asked for the water assets to be consolidated with the best price,” Khalid told reporters after an event in the Selangor Islamic University College here.
Khalid insisted it was important for him to pay the best price for the water concessionaires in order to keep water bills low.
On Wednesday, Selangor and Putrajaya signed an agreement to reorganise water utility in the state, which could lead to the construction of the long-opposed Langat 2 water treatment facility.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the political rivals was signed by Khalid and Energy, Water and Green Technology Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili at a hastily-convened event in Putrajaya.
Khalid also rubbished claims that there is severe infighting in PKR and that it will affect Pakatan Rakyat’s (PR) chances in the Kajang by-election.
Despite allegations of a deepening feud between him and Selangor PKR chief Azmin Ali, Khalid claimed their relationship is “very good”.
“Infighting in politics, is quite common in Malaysia. There is even infighting in Umno, MIC. There is also infighting in MCA,” Khalid said.
He also claimed that it will be impossible to curb any infighting from arising in PKR and in Malaysian politics, but conceded that the level is still moderate compared to other countries.
However, Khalid is likely be called in to meet Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to explain it in detail.
This comes as PKR said it was unaware of the newly-minted water deal to reorganise water utility in the state, and that it is demanding an explanation from the state government.
Under the MoU, Selangor will take over the operations of four water concessionaires — Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor Bhd (Syabas), Puncak Niaga Sdn Bhd (PNSB), Konsortium Abbas Sdn Bhd and Syarikat Pengeluar Air Selangor Holdings Bhd (Splash) — and will place these under the state-owned Kumpulan Darul Ehsan Sdn Bhd.
The acquisition of the water supply infrastructure carries a price tag of RM9.65 billion. In exchange, Selangor agreed to approve the development order for the Langat 2 water treatment plant and ensure all necessary approvals would be given within 30 days from yesterday.
Water supply in Selangor has been a contentious issue since the state fell to Pakatan Rakyat in Election 2008, with the residents experiencing repeated supply outages that the state administration alleged were due to sabotage by the rival Barisan Nasional coalition.
Source: The Malay Mail
The Selangor mentri besar said he had to keep the deal secret to prevent insider trading, which would have then inflated the original offer price.
“Anwar represents Selangor folk. I too represent Selangor folk. What is most important is we find the best way to implement it.
“Selangor folk asked for the water assets to be consolidated with the best price,” Khalid told reporters after an event in the Selangor Islamic University College here.
Khalid insisted it was important for him to pay the best price for the water concessionaires in order to keep water bills low.
On Wednesday, Selangor and Putrajaya signed an agreement to reorganise water utility in the state, which could lead to the construction of the long-opposed Langat 2 water treatment facility.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the political rivals was signed by Khalid and Energy, Water and Green Technology Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili at a hastily-convened event in Putrajaya.
Khalid also rubbished claims that there is severe infighting in PKR and that it will affect Pakatan Rakyat’s (PR) chances in the Kajang by-election.
Despite allegations of a deepening feud between him and Selangor PKR chief Azmin Ali, Khalid claimed their relationship is “very good”.
“Infighting in politics, is quite common in Malaysia. There is even infighting in Umno, MIC. There is also infighting in MCA,” Khalid said.
He also claimed that it will be impossible to curb any infighting from arising in PKR and in Malaysian politics, but conceded that the level is still moderate compared to other countries.
However, Khalid is likely be called in to meet Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to explain it in detail.
This comes as PKR said it was unaware of the newly-minted water deal to reorganise water utility in the state, and that it is demanding an explanation from the state government.
Under the MoU, Selangor will take over the operations of four water concessionaires — Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor Bhd (Syabas), Puncak Niaga Sdn Bhd (PNSB), Konsortium Abbas Sdn Bhd and Syarikat Pengeluar Air Selangor Holdings Bhd (Splash) — and will place these under the state-owned Kumpulan Darul Ehsan Sdn Bhd.
The acquisition of the water supply infrastructure carries a price tag of RM9.65 billion. In exchange, Selangor agreed to approve the development order for the Langat 2 water treatment plant and ensure all necessary approvals would be given within 30 days from yesterday.
Water supply in Selangor has been a contentious issue since the state fell to Pakatan Rakyat in Election 2008, with the residents experiencing repeated supply outages that the state administration alleged were due to sabotage by the rival Barisan Nasional coalition.
Sunday, 23 February 2014
Kajang - Safe for PKR?
Here's a commendable analysis by Lim Soa Goan.
I formatted the fonts for emphasis.
Is Kajang A Safe Bet for PKR?
Nomination for the Kajang by-election has yet to open, but it has already brought out a whole lot of political feuds to warm up for the intensive election war to come.
Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said Anwar Ibrahim should take responsibility for the 1987 Ops Lalang while MCA president Liow Tiong Lai accused Anwar of suppressing Chinese education during his tenure as education minister, citing the record of a RM10 symbolic allocation for a Chinese school.
The ill-feeling between Mahathir and Anwar lives on, and there is no way the former would want to see his ex-deputy win his way to the office of menteri besar. The election war will surely be an eye-catcher if Mahathir goes down to Kajang to campaign for BN's candidate in a heads-on clash with the PKR advisor.
Former minister in the Prime Minister's Department Zaid Ibrahim has joined in the race, citing the need to keep Khalid in his MB's office. But lying behind this outward excuse is his love-hate relationship with Anwar, as well as PKR's deputy president Azmin Ali.
When Zaid declared he was out of the PKR deputy presidency race in 2010, he made it clear that the party's de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim and his election rival Azmin were the "root of the problem," and had urged both to step down so as to remove the last hindrance for Pakatan and PKR to keep growing.
Given his hard stance back then, it is no doubt Zaid is now back to stand in Anwar's way. If Anwar were to become the Selangor MB, Azmin would have a hand in the state's political resources, and Zaid is determined to teach both a lesson by diluting the ballots.
Zaid was able to garner so many votes in Ulu Selangor by-election not because he had the guts to break ranks with Umno but because the voters were unhappy with BN and had responded to the calls of Pakatan Rakyat. If he were to plant his feet in Kajang this time, he will surrender whatever residual support he still has now.
BN goes specifically for Anwar because it knows Kajang is not a place it can capture easily. Moreover, the ruling coalition's lackadaisical performance in running the country over the past one year is not going to be convincing to many a Kajang voter.
According to a recent survey by the UM Centre of Democracy and Elections (Umcedel), 59% of Kajang voters say the by-election should be held so that Anwar could become Selangor MB. The UM study comes close to that of PKR's, which shows that 47% of voters are positive about the by-election. Majority of them believe the by-election has been created by PKR out of political and strategic needs.
69% of UM's respondents say they will support Pakatan because of the rising prices while 65% will vote for Pakatan because of BN's power abuse.
Meanwhile, PKR's survey shows that 42% of Kajang voters feel that crime and safety are priority issues while 38% and 30% are more concerned about traffic jams and garbage disposal problems, respectively. Only 11% care about the municipality council's services.
Inflation, corruption, public safety and traffic all fall within the jurisdiction of the federal administration. BN can turn the tide around if it is able to come up with solutions to address these issues.
But, these problems remain very much apparent during the past one year due to BN leader's incompetency. They have nothing to show to the Kajang residents what they have done since the last general election.
The Ops Cantas by the police on August 17 last year indeed produced some early results in battling serious crimes, especially shooting incidents, but it appears that such cases have made a comeback of late.
As for traffic congestion, the federal government has failed to put in an effective strategy to tackle the problem despite the fact several highways skirt the town. These additional highways will not solve the people's problems, thanks to a poor public transportation system that makes driving.a necessity.
Even the Malay votes that Umno is quite comfortable with will not be a sure bet on the back of rising goods prices. According to UM's study, 62% of Malay voters may lean towards Pakatan just because of this.
Another unfavourable factor for BN is the untimely resignation of Hindraf chairman P. Waythamoorthy as deputy minister in the PM's department, citing BN's failure to honour the promises it made to Hindraf.
Although Malays and Chinese make up the majority of the voters in Kajang, the 10.29% of Indian voters there do play a pivotal role. If Hindraf still has its influence in the Indian society, Waytha can always bank on the by-election to hammer Najib. Najib will have a hard time facing the conservatives in his party if Chinese votes do not go back to BN and more Indian votes are drained away.
While Chew Mei Fun can look to voters who give her the thumbs-up for fulfilling her electoral promises, that does not give her an upper hand in the race under the weight of a multitude of national issues and widespread frustration.
Unless BN can tip the balance over the next one month, Anwar is expected to sail past his first hurdle towards the MB's office easily. As for how he is going to pick up the pieces for the state PKR, that is another question altogether. – Sin Chew Daily, February 23, 2014.
By Lim Sue Goan, MySinChew
I formatted the fonts for emphasis.
Is Kajang A Safe Bet for PKR?
Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said Anwar Ibrahim should take responsibility for the 1987 Ops Lalang while MCA president Liow Tiong Lai accused Anwar of suppressing Chinese education during his tenure as education minister, citing the record of a RM10 symbolic allocation for a Chinese school.
The ill-feeling between Mahathir and Anwar lives on, and there is no way the former would want to see his ex-deputy win his way to the office of menteri besar. The election war will surely be an eye-catcher if Mahathir goes down to Kajang to campaign for BN's candidate in a heads-on clash with the PKR advisor.
When Zaid declared he was out of the PKR deputy presidency race in 2010, he made it clear that the party's de facto leader Anwar Ibrahim and his election rival Azmin were the "root of the problem," and had urged both to step down so as to remove the last hindrance for Pakatan and PKR to keep growing.
Given his hard stance back then, it is no doubt Zaid is now back to stand in Anwar's way. If Anwar were to become the Selangor MB, Azmin would have a hand in the state's political resources, and Zaid is determined to teach both a lesson by diluting the ballots.
Zaid was able to garner so many votes in Ulu Selangor by-election not because he had the guts to break ranks with Umno but because the voters were unhappy with BN and had responded to the calls of Pakatan Rakyat. If he were to plant his feet in Kajang this time, he will surrender whatever residual support he still has now.
BN goes specifically for Anwar because it knows Kajang is not a place it can capture easily. Moreover, the ruling coalition's lackadaisical performance in running the country over the past one year is not going to be convincing to many a Kajang voter.
According to a recent survey by the UM Centre of Democracy and Elections (Umcedel), 59% of Kajang voters say the by-election should be held so that Anwar could become Selangor MB. The UM study comes close to that of PKR's, which shows that 47% of voters are positive about the by-election. Majority of them believe the by-election has been created by PKR out of political and strategic needs.
69% of UM's respondents say they will support Pakatan because of the rising prices while 65% will vote for Pakatan because of BN's power abuse.
Meanwhile, PKR's survey shows that 42% of Kajang voters feel that crime and safety are priority issues while 38% and 30% are more concerned about traffic jams and garbage disposal problems, respectively. Only 11% care about the municipality council's services.
Inflation, corruption, public safety and traffic all fall within the jurisdiction of the federal administration. BN can turn the tide around if it is able to come up with solutions to address these issues.
But, these problems remain very much apparent during the past one year due to BN leader's incompetency. They have nothing to show to the Kajang residents what they have done since the last general election.
The Ops Cantas by the police on August 17 last year indeed produced some early results in battling serious crimes, especially shooting incidents, but it appears that such cases have made a comeback of late.
As for traffic congestion, the federal government has failed to put in an effective strategy to tackle the problem despite the fact several highways skirt the town. These additional highways will not solve the people's problems, thanks to a poor public transportation system that makes driving.a necessity.
Even the Malay votes that Umno is quite comfortable with will not be a sure bet on the back of rising goods prices. According to UM's study, 62% of Malay voters may lean towards Pakatan just because of this.
Another unfavourable factor for BN is the untimely resignation of Hindraf chairman P. Waythamoorthy as deputy minister in the PM's department, citing BN's failure to honour the promises it made to Hindraf.
Although Malays and Chinese make up the majority of the voters in Kajang, the 10.29% of Indian voters there do play a pivotal role. If Hindraf still has its influence in the Indian society, Waytha can always bank on the by-election to hammer Najib. Najib will have a hard time facing the conservatives in his party if Chinese votes do not go back to BN and more Indian votes are drained away.
Unless BN can tip the balance over the next one month, Anwar is expected to sail past his first hurdle towards the MB's office easily. As for how he is going to pick up the pieces for the state PKR, that is another question altogether. – Sin Chew Daily, February 23, 2014.
By Lim Sue Goan, MySinChew
Tuesday, 28 January 2014
PKR Limbo Rocks
How low can PKR get in its feeble attempt to make right the Selangor plot that went awry? In a limbo rock move, PKR leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced today that he would contest the coming Kajang following a collective decision made by Pakatan to ensure a strong victory. When in Malaysia has there ever been a sudden resignation by an assemblyman who states he was stepping down for the common good of Pakatan followed by an announcement of the candidate for the by-election the next day? Never. Dodgy? You bet!
PR and PKR supporters who cannot see through subtly orchestrated shadow play drama that began with the sudden resignation of Kajang assemblyman Lee Chin Cheh are living in denial or selective blindness. The whole scenario smacks of manipulation of voters’ choice in the GE to suit PKR’s game plan in a last-ditch desperate effort to restore normalcy in turbulent PKR.
At a time when Pakatan Rakyat is stirring Malaysians to protest against rising prices, removal of subsidies via Turun protests and other avenues, we see a situation where there will be massive wastage of public funds simply because PKR is allegedly unhappy with MB Khalid in:
· ending Azmin’s term as member of the board of the Selangor Development Corporation.
· the JAIS seizure of bibles
· the row over non-Muslim’s use of the term “Allah”
· the huge pay hike for Selangor elected representatives etc.
For all the reasons mentioned above, surely just a plain uncomplicated resignation by MB Khalid due to personal/medical reasons should suffice instead resorting to a forced resignation and then unnecessary expenditure for a by-election. It is definitely not only unjustified and untimely but smacks of the trademark double standards practiced by Anwar, PKR, and Pakatan Rakyat. When it suits them, it is okay to have a by-election or to use public funds for their agenda but when it does no gel with their motives; they will go on a targeted missile attack to raise public awareness of what is wrong. This time, Anwar and his motley crew have blundered big time for Malaysians are not as ignorant or stupid as they think.
Clearly, Anwar had no other choice but to make the rakyat pay for the shaky situation he faces in Selangor. If he does not offer himself as a candidate for MB, Khalid will not step aside for he would not want Azmin Ali to replace him. In addition, if Anwar is not the candidate, Azmin will want to stand for election. If that happens, Wan Azizah will be most unhappy and create a ruckus. Standing in middle ground, Anwar has no choice but to be the sacrificial lamb – at the rakyat’s expense, especially Kajang voters.
Besides, the current brouhaha over Nurul Izzah’s marital state is likely to have weakened support for PKR and PR so Anwar had to throw in a red herring and control a state that is gradually slipping out of the grips of Pakatan Rakyat.
Who suffers? Who pays? Who gains? That is the PKR Limbo-Rock antidote for Selangor!Fair? Justified?
You judge for yourself!
PR and PKR supporters who cannot see through subtly orchestrated shadow play drama that began with the sudden resignation of Kajang assemblyman Lee Chin Cheh are living in denial or selective blindness. The whole scenario smacks of manipulation of voters’ choice in the GE to suit PKR’s game plan in a last-ditch desperate effort to restore normalcy in turbulent PKR.
At a time when Pakatan Rakyat is stirring Malaysians to protest against rising prices, removal of subsidies via Turun protests and other avenues, we see a situation where there will be massive wastage of public funds simply because PKR is allegedly unhappy with MB Khalid in:
· ending Azmin’s term as member of the board of the Selangor Development Corporation.
· the JAIS seizure of bibles
· the row over non-Muslim’s use of the term “Allah”
· the huge pay hike for Selangor elected representatives etc.
For all the reasons mentioned above, surely just a plain uncomplicated resignation by MB Khalid due to personal/medical reasons should suffice instead resorting to a forced resignation and then unnecessary expenditure for a by-election. It is definitely not only unjustified and untimely but smacks of the trademark double standards practiced by Anwar, PKR, and Pakatan Rakyat. When it suits them, it is okay to have a by-election or to use public funds for their agenda but when it does no gel with their motives; they will go on a targeted missile attack to raise public awareness of what is wrong. This time, Anwar and his motley crew have blundered big time for Malaysians are not as ignorant or stupid as they think.
Clearly, Anwar had no other choice but to make the rakyat pay for the shaky situation he faces in Selangor. If he does not offer himself as a candidate for MB, Khalid will not step aside for he would not want Azmin Ali to replace him. In addition, if Anwar is not the candidate, Azmin will want to stand for election. If that happens, Wan Azizah will be most unhappy and create a ruckus. Standing in middle ground, Anwar has no choice but to be the sacrificial lamb – at the rakyat’s expense, especially Kajang voters.
Besides, the current brouhaha over Nurul Izzah’s marital state is likely to have weakened support for PKR and PR so Anwar had to throw in a red herring and control a state that is gradually slipping out of the grips of Pakatan Rakyat.
Who suffers? Who pays? Who gains? That is the PKR Limbo-Rock antidote for Selangor!Fair? Justified?
You judge for yourself!
Monday, 27 January 2014
Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea
After GE 13, many Malaysians became angry because of baseless allegations unproven until today. However, as revelations and news are unraveled daily, Malaysians are awakened to the reality that perhaps their beliefs in the fairy tale ending of ‘Malaysians will live happily ever after if PR wins’ is fast going up in smoke. Painful but true is the realization that they have been hoodwinked by propaganda and had misused the democratic space in Internet to construct a reality that may never come true under PR. Regardless of its weaknesses, the thought of BN winning GE is more comforting than that of PR coming to power and then throwing Malaysians into a flux of uncertainty.
Pakatan Rakyat component parties are united and divided as and when circumstances suit the whims and fancies of component parties. Making inconsistent statements on issues is the trademark of the coalition.
During the recent controversy where Anwar was denied entry to Japan, only Lim Kit Siang made a statement in his capacity as DAP Adviser. The coalition, PAS and DAP remained silent. Until today, Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has refused to apologize for his supporters’ act of stomping on and burning the Japanese flag, a move that does not augur well for international relations.
On 24th January 2013, The Star reported Pakatan Rakyat stand on the use of the word “Allah” remains unchanged despite PAS Syura Council’s decision that the word cannot be used to describe God in any non-Muslim publications. However, that stand was only for pre-GE13 gimmicks. Naturally, many Malaysians voted Pakatan Rakyat to govern Selangor. However, Pakatan Rakyat has shown its true colors with its silence on the JAIS raid in early January, as it does not seem to have courage to use its mandate to handle the ‘Allah’ issue.
Anwar Ibrahim failed to show leadership quality while it was urgently required in the ‘Allah’ issue. MB Khalid took SIX days to make a statement about the unconstitutional and illegal raid on BSM “despite Jais having no jurisdiction over non-Muslims and the absence of evidence that the over 300 Malay and Iban-language Bibles confiscated from a storeroom were being used to proselytize to Muslims.
Khalid Ibrahim’s request for JAIS to consult the Home Minister to see if their actions were inconsistent with the BN Federal government’s ‘ten-point solution’ (a policy rather than a law), is a clear evasion of his duties and responsibilities and a subtle case of passing the buck. Note how Khalid’s earlier promise that JAIS would in future have to seek the state government’s approval before conducting raids was ignored by JAIS.
All it takes is for PR to repeal or amend laws or state legislation that are not harmonious with its ‘declared’ stand but it prefers to drag its feet, blame others, and zip up hoping that in time, the issue will cool down. Responsible governance? If it cannot resolve basic issues, how can it rule Malaysia?
Many have yet to realize that with more voting for PR in GE 12 and13, there is now a lack of representation for Chinese, Indian and other ethnic groups in the government. The ethnic coalition component parties within BN have very little influence and akin to toothless tigers because of the lack of respect for these parties and low morale in the face of dwindling ground support. Who suffers? The rakyat – who go on a moral crusade against corruption without realizing they are killing the goose that lays golden eggs.
If any student or group has problems, who can help them? PR reps? With lack of majority rule, they cannot do much. Former BN reps cannot help either as the mandate has been given to PR, especially in Penang and Selangor. Few realize the ramifications of the swing to opposition – which has yet to show they have leaders of substance. Worse still, is the fact that PR is fanning racial tension making the gap wider and more difficult to bridge and making use of differences to further their own selfish aims.
The PR Leadership Council at its meeting at PAS Hqrs in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday, 22nd January 2014, decided to give full support to the Johor PR objective to fulfill the Johor Dream to make Johor the front-line state of PR in Peninsular Malaysia in the 14th General Elections in the march of PR towards Nusajaya and Putrajaya. They have yet to resolve inherent problems and yet, dare dream of marching to Putrajaya. Without offering Malaysians constructive proposals in education or even settling the JAIS issue, or putting forth concrete proposals to rectify problems, all they want to do is to rant, claim superiority, and chase their selfish pipe dreams of taking Putrajaya.
From before GE 13, Anwar has been talking about a shadow cabinet and its Orange Book. The fact remains that PR cannot even agree on education policies and its key leaders are righting within their respective parties with and no consensus as to who will be the Prime Minister should PR win GE 14. These are just some of the key issues, which have not been resolved for the past 5 years. That being the case, are they competent and experienced to rule the country?
BN is not blooming in perfection but it has its mechanisms and systems at work. Its leaders have experience and most importantly, the support of the civil service. It is not the same story where PR is concerned so what will happen if they do come to power in GE 14?
The Instant Society
Malaysians are an instant-gratification society. They want BN to produce instant remedies when BN has implemented policies that can only show results in the end. Yet, most are willing to make excuses and close one eye for PR when they flip-flop and then lambaste BN mercilessly when unable to deliver.
In the light of all these uncertainties caused by PR inherent weaknesses, there will be a swing towards BN in GE 14. By then, BN will win with a bigger margin. If that happens, Malaysians would then have exercised wisdom in their voting for it is better with the devil we know (which is a devil only because it is painted as such by PR) than to be drowning in the deep blue sea of uncertainty if PR comes to power.
Undoubtedly, the winds of change are blowing but they are not all the same type of wind. Some are tornadoes and typhoons bringing destruction to all who stand in their path whilst some are gentle and help in growth such as in wind pollination. Hence, Malaysians must move in tandem with correct type of wind – not the destructive ones that will undermine all built by our ancestors.
BN is still the preferred choice for stability, growth and unity even though there are enemies within who are plotting and working against the PM and the government, painting lies and distortions of truth.
After GE 14, PM Najib enjoyed a period of unchallenged authority during which he implemented his manifesto. Malaysians are not only an instant society but they are also impatient. The more radical the manifesto for change, the greater the likelihood to abandon it in the absence of positive results.
However, results HAVE been positive because PM had the guts to implement the changes he passionately believed are necessary to develop Malaysia. That is the mark of a leader of courage and conviction but Malaysians are faulting him on the minutest issues such as kangkungs and whatnots.
It is time Malaysians give our government recognition and support instead of running down our leaders, which is the opposition’s favorite game. With respect, support and unity for and within the ruling government, the course of leadership and development in this nation can be charted positively with commitment and conviction.
Written By
Datuk Huan Cheng Guan
President of
Centre for Political Awareness Malaysia (CPAM)
Pakatan Rakyat component parties are united and divided as and when circumstances suit the whims and fancies of component parties. Making inconsistent statements on issues is the trademark of the coalition.
During the recent controversy where Anwar was denied entry to Japan, only Lim Kit Siang made a statement in his capacity as DAP Adviser. The coalition, PAS and DAP remained silent. Until today, Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has refused to apologize for his supporters’ act of stomping on and burning the Japanese flag, a move that does not augur well for international relations.
On 24th January 2013, The Star reported Pakatan Rakyat stand on the use of the word “Allah” remains unchanged despite PAS Syura Council’s decision that the word cannot be used to describe God in any non-Muslim publications. However, that stand was only for pre-GE13 gimmicks. Naturally, many Malaysians voted Pakatan Rakyat to govern Selangor. However, Pakatan Rakyat has shown its true colors with its silence on the JAIS raid in early January, as it does not seem to have courage to use its mandate to handle the ‘Allah’ issue.
Khalid Ibrahim’s request for JAIS to consult the Home Minister to see if their actions were inconsistent with the BN Federal government’s ‘ten-point solution’ (a policy rather than a law), is a clear evasion of his duties and responsibilities and a subtle case of passing the buck. Note how Khalid’s earlier promise that JAIS would in future have to seek the state government’s approval before conducting raids was ignored by JAIS.
All it takes is for PR to repeal or amend laws or state legislation that are not harmonious with its ‘declared’ stand but it prefers to drag its feet, blame others, and zip up hoping that in time, the issue will cool down. Responsible governance? If it cannot resolve basic issues, how can it rule Malaysia?
Many have yet to realize that with more voting for PR in GE 12 and13, there is now a lack of representation for Chinese, Indian and other ethnic groups in the government. The ethnic coalition component parties within BN have very little influence and akin to toothless tigers because of the lack of respect for these parties and low morale in the face of dwindling ground support. Who suffers? The rakyat – who go on a moral crusade against corruption without realizing they are killing the goose that lays golden eggs.
If any student or group has problems, who can help them? PR reps? With lack of majority rule, they cannot do much. Former BN reps cannot help either as the mandate has been given to PR, especially in Penang and Selangor. Few realize the ramifications of the swing to opposition – which has yet to show they have leaders of substance. Worse still, is the fact that PR is fanning racial tension making the gap wider and more difficult to bridge and making use of differences to further their own selfish aims.
The PR Leadership Council at its meeting at PAS Hqrs in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday, 22nd January 2014, decided to give full support to the Johor PR objective to fulfill the Johor Dream to make Johor the front-line state of PR in Peninsular Malaysia in the 14th General Elections in the march of PR towards Nusajaya and Putrajaya. They have yet to resolve inherent problems and yet, dare dream of marching to Putrajaya. Without offering Malaysians constructive proposals in education or even settling the JAIS issue, or putting forth concrete proposals to rectify problems, all they want to do is to rant, claim superiority, and chase their selfish pipe dreams of taking Putrajaya.
From before GE 13, Anwar has been talking about a shadow cabinet and its Orange Book. The fact remains that PR cannot even agree on education policies and its key leaders are righting within their respective parties with and no consensus as to who will be the Prime Minister should PR win GE 14. These are just some of the key issues, which have not been resolved for the past 5 years. That being the case, are they competent and experienced to rule the country?
BN is not blooming in perfection but it has its mechanisms and systems at work. Its leaders have experience and most importantly, the support of the civil service. It is not the same story where PR is concerned so what will happen if they do come to power in GE 14?
The Instant Society
In the light of all these uncertainties caused by PR inherent weaknesses, there will be a swing towards BN in GE 14. By then, BN will win with a bigger margin. If that happens, Malaysians would then have exercised wisdom in their voting for it is better with the devil we know (which is a devil only because it is painted as such by PR) than to be drowning in the deep blue sea of uncertainty if PR comes to power.
Undoubtedly, the winds of change are blowing but they are not all the same type of wind. Some are tornadoes and typhoons bringing destruction to all who stand in their path whilst some are gentle and help in growth such as in wind pollination. Hence, Malaysians must move in tandem with correct type of wind – not the destructive ones that will undermine all built by our ancestors.
BN is still the preferred choice for stability, growth and unity even though there are enemies within who are plotting and working against the PM and the government, painting lies and distortions of truth.
After GE 14, PM Najib enjoyed a period of unchallenged authority during which he implemented his manifesto. Malaysians are not only an instant society but they are also impatient. The more radical the manifesto for change, the greater the likelihood to abandon it in the absence of positive results.
However, results HAVE been positive because PM had the guts to implement the changes he passionately believed are necessary to develop Malaysia. That is the mark of a leader of courage and conviction but Malaysians are faulting him on the minutest issues such as kangkungs and whatnots.
It is time Malaysians give our government recognition and support instead of running down our leaders, which is the opposition’s favorite game. With respect, support and unity for and within the ruling government, the course of leadership and development in this nation can be charted positively with commitment and conviction.
Written By
Datuk Huan Cheng Guan
President of
Centre for Political Awareness Malaysia (CPAM)
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