tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84410662789145922552024-03-13T19:02:15.089-07:00A better Malaysia for allI am a simple Malaysian with a hope for a better Malaysia with all races united as one and corruption free. I am opening up my blog for all to give suggestions to our Government who of late, have been having problems with their brains not working. So, your input is valuable.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-16482351781364571162010-01-12T00:06:00.001-08:002010-01-12T00:21:15.981-08:00Thank You LordThis is the song I said I will share in my comments under <br />http://malgal128.blogspot.com/2010/01/plea-to-catholic-church-drop-use-of.html<br />when Aramsa commented:<br /><br />Aramsa said... <br />Wah lau. luckily there is no comment because people just would not want to belittle you. You are taking the "turning your cheek" literary. Please do not be poius until you see nothing but a blank wall. This is just the beginning of the political assault. when they start demolishing your place of worship or forbid you to congregate to worship and you will still say its okay, lets go underground. Please be realistic and face the problem squarely. Pray and act. God will be your shield and armour.<br /><br />MY REPLY :<br />Aramsa, I am no pious person do not claim to be one either. This is the song I want to share with all Christians.<br /><br /><br />THANK YOU LORD SONG<br /><br />Thank you Lord<br />For the trials that come my way<br />In the way I can grow each day<br />As I let you lead<br />And I thank you Lord<br />For the patience those trials bring<br />In that process of growing<br />In can learn to care<br /><br />But it goes against the way I am <br />To put my human nature down<br />And let the Spirit take control of all I do<br />Coz when those trials comes, my human nature<br />Shout the things to do <br />And God's soft prompting can be easily ignored<br /><br />Aku bersyukur mengenang kasih dari mu<br />Tiap masa ku perlu mu, Kau di samping ku<br />Aku berazam, akan mengikut jalan Mu<br />Biarpun penuh cabaran, ini doa ku<br /><br />Hanya pada Mu, ku curahkan,<br />sengsara dan pahit hidupku<br />Kerana hanya pada Mu ku harapkan<br /><br />Segala janji-janji Mu menjadi panduan hidup ku<br />Untuk masa kini dan selama-lamanya<br /><br />I thank you Lord <br />For the victory that growing brings<br />In surrender of everything<br />Life is so worthwhile<br />Yes, I thank you Lord<br />And when everything's put in place<br />Out in front I can see your face<br />And that's where You belong<br /><br /><br /><br />My question is, are we fighting because that's what God wants us to do or is it our human nature shouting the things to do? <br /><br />Christians out there can scold me for asking to drop the use of "Allah". It doesn't matter for I believe a cooler head must prevail and let us pray and let God handle the situation.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-90059827623262152832010-01-11T16:44:00.000-08:002010-01-11T16:45:53.051-08:00God is watching us<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/aDSh5wUtXt4&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/aDSh5wUtXt4&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-31078205286934739062010-01-11T02:06:00.000-08:002010-01-11T02:44:37.665-08:00A plea to the Catholic Church - drop the use of "Allah"As a Christian, I urge the Catholic Church to drop the use of "Allah" even though you have every right to do so. Why? It is because Christianity teaches us to be kind, to be forgiving, to compromise, and to turn the other cheek. Turning the other cheek does not mean you are weak or a coward. While the extremists try to oppress using violence to destroy people and country, as Christians, we should show otherwise. We show that we are willing to compromise, turn the other cheek for peace and harmony. The will think they have won. Indeed, they have won but on earth. To their Maker they will be answerable. The whole world is watching them and us too. Let us shine for the Lord with our actions of forgiving and compromising. <br /><br />My family and I were non-Christians. Without anyone trying to convert us, we chose to find out more about Christianity and we converted because of the teachings of love, forgiveness, kindness, others first, yourself last and all the unselfish teachings. We were impressed and still impressed today that despite all the violent acts against us, our Church leaders and Pastors still ask us to forgive in our prayers those who hurt us. Never once, were we taught to retaliate or curse others. By their actions, we converted whole heartedly.<br /><br />Every religion will preach they are good but actions will speak louder than words. People judge us by our actions. Violence, spewing words of hatred and curses, oppressing others, will only bring a bad name to our God and religion. Let them do it, we do not have to follow. So, as a Christian, my plea unto the Catholic Church, drop the use of "Allah" and the whole world will see Christianity is good. <br /><br />The only thing that you should ask for from the Government is that they compensate the Church for the confiscation of all the Bibles and other materials. Use this money to print new Malay language Bibles, minus the word "Allah". We have so many other words to use for the word "God". To be honest, as a Christian, I find it uncomfortable to refer to God as "Allah". I prefer "Father", "Lord", "Lord God", "Jehovah God" and so on.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-39744936146839277872009-09-07T01:39:00.000-07:002009-09-07T01:54:09.951-07:00What does your religion teach you?My religion teaches me good things. What about yours? Do you practice what you preach?<br /><br />1. To love your neighbour as you love yourself.<br />2. To forgive others as God has forgiven you.<br />3. Not to kill anyone.<br />4. Not to be jealous of others.<br />5. Not to want things that belong to others.<br />6. To be tolerant of others irrespective of race and religion.<br />7. To help others in need irrespective of race and religion.<br />8. Not to be a racist.<br />9. To be kind to others. 10. To have compassion for others.<br />11. To have respect for others.<br />12. Not to judge others or you will be judged yourself come judgement day.<br />13. To be honest.<br />14. To have faith in ourselves to resist temptations and do the right thing.<br /> No force or policing required. <br />15. Not to be selfish.<br />16. To put God first, others in between and yourself last.<br /><br />It is by our actions and deeds that people will judge whether our God is a good God or whether our religion is good or bad. We can tell the world how good our God is but our actions will speak louder than words.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-20315354420099524942009-09-03T06:06:00.000-07:002009-09-07T01:39:18.601-07:00Racism in MalaysiaThese days, it is pretty depressing to read the papers in Malaysia. It is all about politics and racism. The most recent being the <a href="http://www.themalaysianinsider.com.my/index.php/malaysia/36272-protesters-threaten-bloodshed-over-hindu-temple">"cow head protest"</a> which showed the utmost disrespect for the hindus in Malaysia.<br /><br />In the midst of all these extremisms, even non-racists people like me are tempted to turn into one because of the anger these acts. However, I realise that I am not a racist and should not turn into one because of the acts of these people. I also realise there are many good people out there who are against what these people did. Coming across articles like the ones below also gives a glimmer of hope that one day Malaysia will be truly one country, one people and racism gone. Unless every race come out and try their best to stamp out racism, a united Malsysia will be just a dream or superficial thing. I urge non racists Malaysians of all races to come out and let your voice be heard. It is time that we drown the voices of these racists to save our country.<br /><br />Please read the great articles below: <a href="http://azmisharom.blogspot.com/2009/09/lets-stamp-out-racism.html">Let's stamp out racism by Azmi Sharom</a><br /><br /><a href="http://harismibrahim.wordpress.com/">The beautiful Malay</a> by Haris Ibrahim<br /><br /><a href="http://rantingsbymm.blogspot.com/2009/08/barbarians-at-gate.html">Barbarians at the Gate</a> by Marina Mahathir<br /><br /><a href="http://malaysiakini.com/letters/112043">Shame on you, Hisham by Abdul Rahman Hashim</a><br /><br /><a href="http://malaysiakini.com/letters/112302">To my misguided brethren</a> by Mohd Tajuddin Mohd Rasdi<br /><br /><a href="http://malaysiakini.com/letters/112305">A lesson in tolerance</a> by Mohd Zaman Khan<br /><a href="http://malaysiakini.com/columns/112267"><br />From cow-headed to level-headed education</a>by Azly RahmanMagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-84406572473399893152009-03-10T02:20:00.000-07:002009-03-10T02:28:00.376-07:00Let us the parents decide what language to teach Science and MathsThe one thing that pisses me off here is Anwar, PAS, DAP, the NGOs and even MCA wanting to have Science and Maths taught in the mother tongue - Bahasa, Mandarin and Tamil. This is the only area where UMNO has it right - teaching these 2 subjects in English. I am talking as a parent and have talked to many other parents - Malays, Chinese and Indians and they are all in favour of these two subjects being taught in English. These two subjects if our children enters college will be taught in English and not other languages. Do the Malays even realise that why it is they are not so employable in the market? The reason is simple - their lack of proficiency in English. There were many times that I wanted to employ a Malay because I believe in a multiracial working place - it is fun as it exposes us to other cultures. The only problem was, I couldn't find one who is proficient in English so I employed Indians or Indian muslims instead coz they have better command of English. So, why stifle the progress of Malays especially? <br /><br />POLITICIANS, who are you to decide for our children? We want the best for our children but you politicians only want the best for yourselves. If you care for the Malays, you would push for English to be taught even more so. You would try every measure to make sure the Malay children catch up in English. If our teachers cannot handle it, then get foreign teachers temporarily to do it. Take a look at Korea and China. They hire American teachers to teach their children. They are overtaking us and what do we do? Go backwards!<br /><br />I voted for PR in the last election and influenced my friends and relatives to do so too. However, this might not be the case again if PR insists on teaching Science and Maths in the mother tongue. I do not want my children to study these subjects in Bahasa or Mandarin coz they are of no benefit to them.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-11065745859379182902008-10-04T21:17:00.000-07:002008-10-04T21:31:47.236-07:00ISA detainees weevil and wild life mealsA quote from Malaysiakini,<br />Jeffrey Kitingan and four of his fellow inmates managed to catch a small snake on two occasions and a bird to supplement their diet when they were detained under ISA.<br />---end---<br /><br />Is it not bad and cruel enough for people to be detained without a trial under ISA? Why treat them even worse than criminals in normal prisons by not giving them the same privillege accorded to criminals to buy food and drinks from canteens? If the authorities are not willing to spend a little more money for better food for the detainees, allow their families and donors to provide food for them or run a canteen for them. ISA detainees should not be treated badly as most of them these days are politically motivated arrests. They are not hardcore criminals.<br /><br />First, Teresa Kok complained about the food and I thought that she was being choosy but slowly the truth is coming out from other detainees. Imagine having to catch wild life like snakes and birds to supplement your food or having weevil infested food.<br /><br />If Syed Hamid thinks that the food is alright, then he should stay there for a month and eat the same food with additional weevil protein added.<br /><br />I urge the government to have a heart. To those who believe in God, you would not do this to another human. <br /><br />MANSUHKAN ISA!MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-1989457260190010632008-10-03T19:20:00.000-07:002008-10-03T19:47:46.660-07:00Let not heroes like Raja Petra cry aloneThis morning I stumbled upon this particular blog by Sheih Kickdefella (his blogger name) touching on the arrests of Raja Petra and how we Malaysians are all talk and no action. It is indeed true. Malaysians rather grumble, curse and talk behind or come online and scream profanities and then hide or give one thousand and one excuses for why they are not able to show support for those who have been detained unfairly under ISA. How do I know? Well, I've tried convincing my friends to join me in Kamunting to show support for RPK and other ISA detainees during Raya and disappointingly, their replies were er.......<br /><br />My dear Malaysians, don't grumble or regret when you see your country going down, when you see no future for your children or grandchildren coz what have you done to help make Malaysia a better place for all or even support the people who fought on your behalf. Don't let these heroes and their families suffer alone is my plea to all. Ever heard of the saying "Laugh and the whole world laughs with you. Cry and you cry alone"? Don't let it happen to these heroes. <br /><br />Quote from his blog:<br />So truly Malaysian we are, we will rather relax and enjoyed our forthcoming holiday sipping Earl Grey in the balcony of the resort and yes, we will have no problem seeing our once beloved fella rotten in the Kamunting Detention Centre. Well, he is not the first, right?<br /><br />--end---<br />To read more on his article, click below:<br /><br />http://kickdefella.wordpress.com/2008/09/24/bariah-ishak-marina-lee-and-the-rest-of-the-heroes/#comment-39211MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-44085635504340820182008-10-02T05:12:00.000-07:002008-10-02T05:32:42.587-07:00Hari Raya visit to KamuntingI almost missed an important event today. I overslept. hehehe Anyway, I rushed and was one of the few earlybirds to arrive at Bays Water (near Tesco), the meeting place for all wishing to go to Kamunting to convey our Hari Raya greetings and show of support to RPK and the other ISA detainees.<br /><br />Halfway on the bridge, there was a slight jam due to an accident and up pulled this car and the driver waved to me. I wound down my window and it was my friend who said "Wah, you also going?" Of course, I was going. How can I miss or not show my support for RPK after all he has done for us. <br /><br />We made a stop immediately after the toll at Kamunting, took some photos (unfortunately I forgot to bring my camera along, so those who took them, please either post them here or email them to me at malgal128@gmail.com. Mohan, your email is not working for some reasons) and many said they were here because of RPK. RPK didn't have to do this and risk himself being in ISA but his sense of justice is so strong that he did it so this is why they were all here to let him know that he is not going to walk this walk alone. I must say that I agree coz that was what woke me up too. How can I let a man who has done so much walk alone? <br /><br />My dear friend brought along cookies and other stuff for RPK and the other ISA detainees. I wanted to cook some curry chicken for them too but was told not to as they were not allowed to receive things like this. It is really inhumane of our government not to allow these detainees to receive food brought by well-wishers during this Hari Raya. Where is the spirit of forgiveness and compassion? Like I have mentioned before, these people are not criminals so don't treat them like one. <br /><br />To the Malay guy who gave us chocolate cakes to eat, I want to say thank you for your kind gesture and support.<br /><br />To the rest of the Malaysian who didn't go, please try to in future to help make a difference in our country. Abolish ISA. Freedom!MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-8808897056444012042008-09-30T07:33:00.000-07:002008-09-30T07:49:24.241-07:00Win a person over with understanding and not ISACan ISA and all the counselling inside change the person into what the government wants them to be? I think not, observing and listening to the many people released from ISA. In fact, after their release, they are even more determined to get rid of ISA and if they were not from the reformasi movement, the detention has turned them into one. <br /><br />Sometimes punishment can cause more harm and damage. It will make the person hate the government responsible for making their life miserable. Their families and friends will probably feel the same. So, what has the government accomplished by this punishment? Temporarily put fear into the people and temporarily stop them from talking. However, the government has forgotten that in this internet age, you stop someone, someone else takes over so the news doesn't stop.<br /><br />A better approach would be to engage that person in an intellectual discussion, try to win him over. You definitely cannot win someone over by making his life miserable. Show a person kindness, care, sincerity, understanding and love and you might just win him over without incurring the wrath of the people.<br /><br />Threats and punishment work only with cowards but not on courageous and righteous people. The more you punish and threaten them, the more they will fight you.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-21435020032517039572008-09-29T05:39:00.000-07:002008-09-29T05:41:40.677-07:00Happy Hari Raya PuasaTo all my Muslim friends, Happy Hari Raya Puasa.<br /><br />I get to eat lemang this Wednesday and another one on Thursday and then on Saturday. hehehe<br /><br />God bless you all, take care, drive safely.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-17794017871312588742008-09-29T05:31:00.000-07:002008-09-29T05:37:51.271-07:00Al Jazeera documentary on ISAWe need to get rid of the draconian law. The citizens must be given a right to defend themselves in the court of law. Today, it is them, tomorrow it might be your or your loved ones. Let us all come together to abolish ISA. Have mercy on those who are separated from their families during this month of Ramadan. <br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/7jkAmOQt20k&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/7jkAmOQt20k&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-15709899187411421612008-09-27T02:25:00.000-07:002008-09-27T02:35:22.061-07:00Violence not the way to change Teresa KokWhat is becoming of our people? Why use violence against people whom we think or feel have spoken wrongly? Haven't these people learned from the mistakes of other countries where violence have destroyed the whole country? <br /><br />Talking about peace is not enough to convince others you are peaceful people. It is practising peace that does the deal. To these violent people, think before you react. If you are unhappy with Teresa's words or actions, vote her out next time. If you cannot wait till the next time, write letter to her to express how you feel. Email her. Comment in her blogs. There's not need to resort to violence. <br /><br />Lots of people are unhappy with Ahmad Ismail but they don't resort to violence. They practice restraint. They express themselves through words. <br /><br />Love your country and people, then love peace.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-18940465070524284022008-09-26T21:20:00.000-07:002008-09-26T21:35:04.388-07:00Abolish ISA Candlelight virgilLast night was my first experience participating in a candlelight virgil for the abolishment of ISA. It was a very good and fulfilling experience as I felt that I have played my part in trying to help people who are being imprisoned unfairly without a trial. It made me feel good that I now walk the talk instead of complaining behind the scenes, a cowardice act. <br /><br />Met a Chinese couple friend and a Malay lady friend there. We kind of gave each other the big-eyed surprised look. Anyway, it was great seeing friends there lending support to a good cause.<br /><br />However, I must say that I am disappointed that only about 300 or more people came in this city of millions. I know many of my Chinese, Malay and Indian friends are very angry with this ISA thing but why are they not there? Is it because generally good Malaysians are also very passive? It really contrasts when it comes to the racists demonstrations. Again, it might be bccause unreasonable people are usually very vocal and will do anything to attract attention or disrupt anything they deem not right to them. <br /><br />My appeal to good Malaysians of all races, come out to be with your brothers and sisters and support each other to get rid of this oppressive ISA law. Let the Government know that we are really unhappy. They would not know if you do not come out to show your support. Think of all the sufferings these detainees go through and how their families are suffering. You might not be suffering today but who knows one day someone in your family might and support from good people is what you need. Do your part regardless of race and religion. The ISA has people of all races and religion.<br /><br />We need you good people to come out.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-90043814895560659442008-09-24T01:40:00.000-07:002008-09-24T02:12:14.748-07:00RPK, a hero not to be forgottenI never expected that I would be so overcomed by emotions or would shed a tear for someone whom I don't know personally. Yes, RPK or Raja Petra has done this to me. Made me into an emotional wreck since his arrest under ISA. Now, how did he managed to make me feel this way? In this world of today, most people are selfish, caring for themselves and their families only. Few would sacrifice all they have and risk being sent to prison just to see justice and speak the truth. I thought I would never live to see a Mahatma Gandhi in my lifetime and especially in Malaysia. RPK, a Prince who gave himself to all of us so that hopefully Malaysia will see a brighter future. <br /><br />RPK made me and many non-Muslims see that Islam is a good religion, practices fairness and justice. It is people like him that gives Islam a good name. Unfortunately, our government has chosen to twist it around and use religion to imprison him. It is our government that practices injustice by imprisoning people under ISA under the pretext of religion that gives religion a bad name. <br /><br /><em>This is what RPK said in one of his blogs :</em><br /><em>RPK says: No, I am not a deviant or a blasphemous Muslim of the worst kind. It is those in government who are. And I will uphold the true Islam and oppose these deviants till my last breath and the last drop of my blood. Sure, punish me with laws that Islam forbids. Today, I will face you in a kangaroo court to face punishment under laws that Islam forbids. Tomorrow, I will be the witness in God’s court where you will then face trial for violating God’s laws. In God’s court, I will be assured justice denied me now. And the punishment you receive in God’s court will be many times worse than what you can do to me in this world. And God will determine if I am a deviant and a blasphemous Muslim of the worst kind. That is not for you to say. God never appointed you His assistant here on earth. Instead, God said He knows what is in our hearts and only He will know</em><br />---end--<br /><br />I appeal to all Malaysians to search your heart and give your support to RPK and all the ISA detainees. Fight to abolish ISA. Today, it is them and their families suffering. Tomorrow, it might be you or someone you know or love. <br /><br />Go to this website to see what you can do to show your support.<br /><a href="http://mt.m2day.org/2008/content/view/13056/84/">http://mt.m2day.org/2008/content/view/13056/84/</a><br /><br />You shall not be forgotten RPK and whatever happens, your name will definitely be in our Malaysian history as a hero. We love you.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-56511932848258839772008-09-19T18:36:00.000-07:002008-09-19T18:48:34.057-07:00Silencing of bloggers under ISAThe government must stop the silencing of bloggers by using ISA. It is indeed a worry trend to arrest them because they dare to speak the truth about the government. To try to give all kinds of reasons for their arrests does not go down well with the people. The people are not stupid anymore. The more the government does this, the more the people will vote against them. <br /><br />If they are wrong, use the court to judge them. Give them a fair trial. However, instead of trying to arrest them, why not try to listen and understand why they are saying these things. There must be a reason and many times, these reasons are valid reasons of the people. Engage them, have dialogues with them for they may teach the government a thing or two about what is right and what is wrong. The government must learn to take criticisms from its rakyat and not stiffle or silence them. A lot of good will come if only the government will listen to them.<br /><br />Set RPK, Penarik Beca, Sheih Kickdefella and all ISA detainess free!<br /><br />We will pray for all of you until you are released.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-78455014869716312182008-09-19T02:58:00.000-07:002008-09-19T03:15:04.927-07:00Calling all non-racists to come togetherSo well said, Shirina Rashid in Malaysiakini at <a href="http://www.malaysiakini.com/letters/90065">http://www.malaysiakini.com/letters/90065</a> in her respond to racists statements by Ahmad Ismail. It is people like Shirina and the many others out there that give hope to this world plagued by evil people. <br /><br />I know of many good people around but as usual, good people are also gentler and choose the peaceful way of not making a fuss even though they are hurt. The racists on the other hand will choose to rear their ugly head and as be as loud as possible so that everyone can hear them. Maybe, it is time for the good people to stand up and be counted.<br /><br />We, non-racists must do something to start bring all races together in harmony. We need a good leader (doesn't have to be a political leader) to organise and start the ball rolling. I suggest that the leader organise and event asking all Malaysians to invite a friend or family of a different race to a specially organised friendship function. Do this now to start showing our solidarity and make it a frequent even. <br /><br />Another thing we can start doing is maybe to keep in touch by emails or by some social networking sites to start bonding and be true friends. We must start somewhere and soon.<br /><br />However, remember this is only to start the ball rolling but there must be other measures like the education policies I have mentioned in earlier blogs for long term harmony.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-74714324350205695412008-09-15T23:02:00.000-07:002008-09-15T23:15:44.725-07:00The biggest hurdle in Malaysian mix marriagesMix marriages is great for racial unity in any country. I, for one, really do encourage it. However, in Malaysia, it is a little more difficult when compared to other countries, including Indonesia. Malaysia is unique as one must convert if you want to marry a Malay and there is no way of getting out of the religion once you convert. People are afraid of being forced into something and have no way out. <br /><br />On the whole, people are afraid to convert to any other religion. The same happens when once upon a time, you have to convert to Christianity if you wish to marry one. This made most families angry when their children want to marry a Christian. However, these days, a Buddhist marrying a Christian can keep his or her faith until one day he or she chooses to convert or not to convert. This relaxed rule has brought about more mixed-faith marriages.<br /><br />I do believe that if everyone is allowed to keep his or her own faith in marriage, there will be many, many more mixed-raced and mix-religion marraiges.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-42541040361329201422008-09-15T22:45:00.000-07:002008-09-15T23:01:01.799-07:00Why advertise for candidates who are Mandarin speaking?I was reading some comments from <a href="http://test.chedet.com/che_det/2008/09/malay-unity-and-malaysian-unit.html#comments">http://test.chedet.com/che_det/2008/09/malay-unity-and-malaysian-unit.html#comments</a> and came across this comment by Azlela saying the Chinese are racists because of their adverts. <br /><br />Well, at one time, I thought the same even though I am not a Malay but am not Chinese educated. I thought they were being unfair to the non-Mandarin or non-Chinese educated. However, there came a time when I, myself had to employ someone who had to be able to speak Mandarin. It is not because I am a racist but because I have no choice as the job required the person to be able to speak Mandarin or some Chinese dialects. It then made me realise that I was wrong. There were times when I had to put "only those fluent in English may apply". All this is not because of racial discrimination but because of what the job requires. I also heard from a friend of mine that her husband (Chinese but English educated) faces problems at work in factories as these days most companies have some kind of dealings with China.<br /><br />So, from here you can see that it has nothing to do with race because English educated Chinese are affected too. Sometimes, we have to think deeper before we make assumptions. Once, we realise the real reasons, we should find ways to improve ourselves and our children so that they will not face this problem.<br /><br />Look at the market trend and go for it. Otherwise, we will be left behind.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-320676689098285392008-09-12T02:23:00.000-07:002008-09-12T02:49:10.979-07:00The ingredients for living in harmonyJust like in marriage, a harmonious multi-racial society requires the right ingredients and chef to make it work. What doesn't anyway? A prawn noodle dish will taste different in different stalls and different states. It all boils down to the ingredients and the chef. <br /><br />So, what are the right ingredients for a multi-racial and multi-religion country like Malaysia need? <br /><br />Malaysian Cake<br /><br />Ingredients :<br />Seive A first -<br />3 cups of respecting others<br />3 cups of not doing to others what you do not like others to do unto you<br />3 cups of putting yourself in the shoes of others<br />3 cups of minding the language you use (remember to use only the best brands coz the fakes will turn your cake mouldy and poisonous)<br /><br />B:<br />5 cups of loving the country<br /><br /><br />Method :<br />1. Put all the ingredients together and seive it to remove the "I, Me, Myself, My this and My that" bugs. They will definitely spoil the taste of your cake.<br />2. You also require a very good chief chef to make sure all the assistant cooks follow instructions properly. Never let them deviate from the main recipe as it would a disaster. The chief chef must get rid of cooks who bent stubborn on doing things their own way.<br />3. Add seived ingredient A to B. Knead it gently but firmly until the dough is mixed thoroughly and the texture is strong.<br />4. Bake it and voila, the Malaysian cake is born.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-76318460977149222072008-09-05T02:56:00.000-07:002008-09-05T07:51:07.900-07:00A school that unites all racesMalaysian politicians are a strange lot. Most of them have vision problems that are pretty hard or impossible to correct at all. They can only see extremely very short distances. So, they are actually as good as blind.<br /><br />Look at our education system. We start dividing children up at such an early age. They only know their own race and religion. Worse still, some racists teachers start teaching these y0ung innocent children to be racists too. Every Barisan party only cared for their own race and fought for schools that based on language and indirectly race-based. If they really cared for the country and people, they would have fought for a school that unites all races. Shame on you politicians. <br /><br />A SCHOOL THAT UNITES ALL RACES<br /><br />My suggestion is that we have only one type of school but catered for all races. <br /><br /><ol><li>Have one session schools 8.30 am - 3.30pm so that there will be more time for all activities. However, ensure they have at least 2 breaks - 20 minutes breakfast at 9.30 pm and 40 minutes lunch and rest break at 1.00 pm. Provide children with individual lockers and bathrooms to freshen up.</li><li>Use English as the medium of instruction for subjects like Science, Maths and Geography to improve the standard of English to be able to compete globally. </li><li>Have English literature classes and lots of comprehension and composition lessons.</li><li>Use Bahasa Malaysia as the medium of instruction for subjects like History, Moral, Arts, etc. In fact, Moral should not be taught as a single subject. It is really ridiculous. It should be integrated into Science, English and Bahasa Malaysia. This way, the children have one less subject to study. Be sure to include lots of topics that talks about racial unity and respect for one another. Let children brainstorm ideas on how to achieve racial unity.</li><li>Teach Mandarin and Tamil (mother tongue) everyday during the last period of the day. Those who do not want to attend, have to stay in the library to study, read a book or complete their homework. Give parents and children a choice to choose.</li><li>Set aside three periods a week like in the good old days for group activities like football, netball, basketball, rounders, softball and so on. Play games that encourage cooperation. </li><li>Encourage small group activities and projects where children can socialise as well as brainstorm ideas and teachers must make sure it is a mixed racial group.</li><li>While Muslim children are studying religion, the others can either opt to study their own religion or go to the library to study, read books or complete their homework.</li><li>Do not group children into classes based on their abilities as it makes them feel bad.</li><li>Encourage peer teaching and learning in small groups.</li><li>Reduce homework, get it all done in school so that children have time to study and have some time for themselves at home.</li><li>Get qualified, native English speakers to teach our children subjects taught in English if our local teachers are not proficient enough in English until we can produce our enough of our own.</li><li>Additional activities like clubs, sports training or games for competition should be held after school hours, 3.30 pm - 5.00 pm. Make sure all children join at least one activity. Leave weekends free for spending time with families. No extra classes or tuition.</li></ol><p>I encourage readers to provide more positive suggestions here. </p><p> </p><p> </p>MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-74036747739702333632008-09-04T07:49:00.000-07:002008-09-04T08:14:31.694-07:00A note to PKR runned statesToday an uncle from another state visited and asked this question "How is Penang doing under the new government?" I was like err..., nothing much yet really. Yes, how is Penang doing under the new government? This is my question too. <br /><br />Last week, I attended a conference and it was during our break where a group of us, Malays and non-Malays were seated together and the same question popped up. Someone there mentioned that since the new government took over, no new projects have been approved. Geez, if this is the truth, it is very bad indeed. The rakyat did not vote for a new government to freeze all projects. We want to see development in Penang. We want to see business get approved without all the red tape. We want to see new business ideas, brainstorming, etc to get Penang and all the PKR governed states doing better than before. The poor must be helped, not with just cash but with a programme to help them to be financially indepdent in the long run. Give them free business training programmes or know how. Team them up with people who have funding. We know that the Barisan Government has punished us by taking away the important mega projects but let us now sit down and sulk over it. Do something to prove to them that PKR can do it without Barisan.<br /><br />I suggest PKR take the initiative of setting up a rakyat think-tank online and offline and invite the people to give ideas on how to bring about development, business, solve transport problems, etc. As the saying goes, more heads are better than one. Choose the good ones and work on it. <br /><br />Digging up Barisan's trash is good but if it is only that and nothing else, the rakyat will be very disappointed. Don't fail the rakyat. Stay focused and be result orientated.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-86398748349339356782008-09-02T03:11:00.000-07:002008-09-02T03:37:42.705-07:00Is Ahmad Ismail willing to do the same for the Malays?It is a shame that Ahmad Ismail of UMNO resorted to describing the Chinese as immigrant squatters and therefore not to be treated equally. He also questioned the Chinese’s willingness to share and distribute their wealth equally with the other races.<br /><br />I really cannot understand why some people, especially those from UMNO can come up with such remarks. But then again, coming from someone in UMNO, I really shouldn't be so surprised.<br /><br />He also has the cheek to question the Chinese's willingness to share and distribute their wealth equally with the other races. What does he mean by sharing and distributing our wealth equally? Giving away our wealth to those who are not willing to work for it? Come on. Would he and other rich UMNO politicians and Malays willingly do that? I don't see any rich UMNO politicians or Malays sharing their wealth wih the poor Malays. The point is, I and I am sure that most, if not all, Chinese or any race or any one would do that.<br /><br />However, I would be willing to employ, go into partnership or work together with Malays who are hardworking and capable. I would not hesitate to teach them what I know so long as I know they are not racists. Why should I share my knowledge or work with people who hates my race or me? In all my life, I have very good relationship with my Malay and Indian friends and staff. I love them just as much as I love my own race friends. Why? It's because they do not see me as a Chinese but as a friend and I see them they same way too.<br /><br />So, do not ask others to do what you are not willing to do for your own race. Instead, ask all races to come together and help each other. Ask the Malays to be willing to work hard and be efficient instead and you will see opportunities opening up for them to succeed.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-60477714373753650662008-09-01T08:13:00.000-07:002008-09-01T08:22:16.079-07:00Political websites need to be interactiveA visit to MCA's website some time ago to try to post some suggestions came to a dead end. No where to post comments or suggestions. Today, I clicked on a link from a blog site and it ended up in Gerakan's site. Again, there was no where to post suggestions or comments. <br /><br />Seems to me that they do not want feedback from the people. How can they, as representatives of the people improve their services or their party without feedback from the people who put them into power? Thnk about it, MCA, Gerakan and all those who do not allow feedback or comments. This is the age of the internet - Web 2.0. Be part of it or be dead like a dinosaur.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8441066278914592255.post-74181649382637543842008-08-31T04:12:00.000-07:002008-08-31T04:39:51.393-07:00How do we unite all the different races in Malaysia?Racism in Malaysia is a very hot topic these days. Let us not harp on this and condemn each other with vulgarities and sarcasm anymore. Instead, put all our minds to work and suggest to the government here on how and what they can do to unite us. The government does need help here, don't you agree? They, especially UMNO, is totally lost so let us, the citizens of Malaysia help them. <br /><br />I invite all races to participate. One exception though, racists are not welcomed here. You can join UMNO instead. However, please do not do what the politicians do. Use common sense, have respect for other races and moderate language to express yourselves. To sum it all up, mind your language and be civilized. <br /><br />Do put a subject title for your suggestions okay? I will put up those exceptionally good ones on a page by itself. Helps readers to locate it easier.<br /><br /><br />My first suggestion will be coming soon. Mine will be about schools.MagMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05424896531053948185noreply@blogger.com0