• 274 unit homes at RM200,000
• 252 unit homes at less than RM750,000, and
• 22 unit homes for less than RM2 million

5 Nov 2014: PTG transfered the said land to DBKL.
21 Nov 2014: Development company, Ecoland (KKC Syndicate) was registered.
21 Aug 2015: DO was issued to the company.
17 Sept 2015: Occupy letter issued by Developer to residence
11 Oct 2015: Datok Keramat residence protested [read astro Awani here]
12 Oct 2015: Dato Johari issued a statement here
20 Oct 2015: UDA aplied for 100% affordable housing
4 Nov 2015: DBKL reject UDA
18 Nov 2015: Mayor said 50% will be below RM200,00 and 50% below RM600,000 [red MMO here]

KL Mayor Dato Mohd Amin Nordin

• Ecoland (KKC Syndicate) was registered within 2 weeks after PTG transferred the land to DBKL. Why so convenient?

• PTG has given the condition that it is strictly for affordable housing and it was offered for a nominal premium of about 10% but DBKL did not pay for the premium then. Will they pay only when that condition removed?

• It was believed that DBKL eventually paid the premium in July 2014 for RM1.2 million. KL Mayor claimed it was paid in 2011. Something is not consistent. Which is which?

• Why did DBKL not offered the land to companies specialised and dedicated to build affordable housing like Prima, or SPNB or UDA?   

• Only yesterday that it was reported that the Mayor said 50% would be below RM200,000 and balance 50% for below RM600,000. But, still why not intervene and give to UDA for 100% below RM200,000? 

• Why did DBKL Board of Advisory members said they are not sure of details as per The Star report Oct 15? How could they be not sure when DO already issued and developer about to move in?  

• Is it not clearly stated in a DO that allows developer to issue letter to land occupant?

• Why did KL Mayor only clarify that there is no such DO for units more than RM2 million after only one month? Sudden change in policy? 

• Will KL Mayor issue a letter to confirm the change or it will remain as per the original DO to KKC Syndicate with the RM2 million homes when "Melayu sudah lupa"on the promises?

• At RM16.2 million land price sold to KKC Syndicate, DBKL could have made by an additional RM10 million more than if they had did a JV with a GLC. [Read former developer Bigdog here]. What is going on?

• Why is land originally allocated for affordable housing not wholesomely developed as affordable housing? Is it not profitable? There is still room for RM21 million profit. [Refer again to Bigdog.] 

• Sources claimed that the 100% affordable housing development was supposed to be awarded to a company called Amal Sentral but was switched to higher end development for Ecoland. Was there such a switch? Who - DBKL or Minister, which Ministry?

FT Minister, tengku Dato Adnan Tengku Mansor or Tadman

• Is the said property development company licensed?

• How could a newly formed Company with no proven track record and only a 29 year old as Director out beat a GLC or other more experienced developer?  Something is fishy.

• Is Ecoland only a front and the real operating Company for KKC Syndicate will eventually be different one? 

• What is then the real Company for KKC Syndicate? Will the real owner be known or only when it is eventually flipped to a PLC?

• How come DBKL is not suspicious? Is there someone inside or higher in on it?

• Is it true the DO from DBKL refered to an earlier application by KKC Syndicate to FT Minister? When did they made the application?

• Why not offer to LTAT who could also provide for millitary personnel?

• What happens to the eventually not sold Bumi units of below RM600,00?

• What happen to non-Malay units that may not be taken up due to proximity to a Mosque and azan could be irritating to them?

• Will the liberal Malay that could likely afford high end housing not antagonize the traditionally Malay centric neighbourhood?

• Why is DBKL profiteering from cheaply acquired Federal land hived off to commercial entities? Aren't they supposed to serve the rakyat and not themselves or any specific others?

• How many other parcels DBKL have lined up to be hived off for commercial entities?

• Is it true that such scheming has happened in areas like Kg Pandan, Lembah Pantai, and few other areas that it changed the local demography?

• Why can't FT Minister intervene? 

• Was there a deposit paid that FT Minister is reluctant to reimburse?  

• He has a reputation, so what is he up to? 

• Is he taking advantage of the current instability in UMNO?

• This is an issue of the people so why is it FT UMNO leaders keeping quiet? Some is heard ampu-ing  Liaison UMNO Chairman of FT? We've got sources, OK?

• Where is Pemuda UMNO and other UMNO wings for FT? High on Vape?

We're now the AC

With the beating of native drums, Asean leaders marked the establishment of the Asean Community (AC), a regional economic power that has a greater population and diversity than North American or the European Union. Asean's combined GDP is expected to reach US$7.4 tril (about RM20 trillion) by 2020, giving it the opportunity to compete with China and India.

Making History

A hugely important moment in the Asean narrative occured yesterday when leaders signed twop declarations establishing the Asean Community and charting the course of the regional group over the next 10 years. The former pact will not only radically change the region's economic, social and political landscape, and improve the fortunes of more than 630 million citizens, it will potentially turn asean into the fourth largest economy in the world. 

'KL Asean Summit the most significant since its inception'

By AZURA ABAS, ZAFIRA ANWAR and LAILI ISMAIL - 22 November 2015 @ 10:08 PM

KUALA LUMPUR: The 27th Asean Summit will go down in history as the most significant summit since its inception in 1967, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

This summit in Kuala Lumpur, he said, would forever be remembered as the event where all 10 Asean member states declared themselves as an Asean Community.

"What we aspired, we have achieved was Asean as a community.

"This summit will be the summit where we declared ourselves as an Asean Community.

"Under Malaysia's chairmanship, we have delivered Asean as a community as well as the document which sets our way ahead leading us to 2025, with Asean forging ahead together," he said in a press conference after closing the 27th Asean Summit and Related Summits today.

Najib described the 27th Asean summit as a monumental event which brought Asean to the fore, stating that global recognition of Asean showed that the bloc was a success due to level of camaraderie played by its leaders.

Asean: A job well done Malaysia

23 November 2015 @ 8:47 AM KUALA LUMPUR:

A prominent Thai Asean analyst has praised Malaysia for a job well done during its tenure as Asean chair for 2015, saying that right from day one, the nation had taken extra efforts to ensure smooth proceedings of the 27th Asean Summits and Related Summits.

Kavi Chongkittavorn said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who helmed the chairmanship, Malaysia had taken the lead to make sure that an Asean Community would be set up by year end.

Read More : http://www.nst.com.my/news/2015/11/113244/asean-job-well-done-malaysia

Concretising the Asean community

23 November 2015 @ 11:08 AM

THE Asean Community will be a reality come Dec 31, the 2015 Kuala Lumpur Declaration on the Establishment of the Asean Community having been signed by the 10 Asean leaders yesterday.

Built on the three pillars of a Political and Security Community, an Economic Community and a Socio-Cultural Community, the Asean Community is slated as “a politically cohesive, economically integrated, socially responsible, and … truly people-oriented, people-centred”.

Beginning with the Bangkok Declaration almost half a century ago, the organisation intended to foster the security of Southeast Asia, reaped the dividends of the resulting regional peace and stability to become today’s area of economic prosperity. Friendship and cooperation being the cornerstone of Asean, this has naturally meant that going ahead as a community is inevitable given its collective natural advantages. Together, the member countries have a combined population of 630 million, though diverse and disparate, it is larger than Europe (500 million) and North America (444 million). It is currently the seventh largest economy of the world with a Gross Domestic Product of US$2.4 trillion which is expected to double by 2020, and by mid-21st century it would rank fourth globally. Asean has, therefore, enormous potential economically as a combined entity. Already the Asean Free Trade Area (Afta) has seen tariff barriers coming down and the advantages are evident. As Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak pointed out, Afta has been a cost-saving exercise for the manufacturing industries of the region and has improved its global competitiveness.

As stated, Asean’s success rests on its security pact which has brought peace to a region threatened with conflict. The example of the Philippines’ claim to Sabah during the lead-up to the formation of the Federation of Malaysia is an obvious example. Also, the initial partners of the region have forged ahead economically given half a century of peace and the newer members, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam — are catching up. Myanmar, meanwhile, is making strides with the recent elections won by the populist Aung San Su Kyi. If then, there is an area needing much work it is to form a cohesive socio-cultural community, which the PM describes as “something special” that “binds us, making our citizens feel that Asean courses through their veins”.

Undoubtedly a massive challenge in the face of the need to maintain national boundaries, firstly, not least because of the still uneven development between countries. Secondly, current cross-border crimes which are becoming increasingly more rampant will inhibit any intention of allowing freedom of movement. Thirdly, the patriotism thus far developed is not easily eroded for an Asean identity that is beset with restrictions. Member states, as the PM urged, must therefore “realise a politically cohesive, economically integrated, socially responsible” Asean. Only then can the people perceive of Asean as the entity delivering the benefits and thus create the attendant sense of belonging to the larger community. However, Asean’s economic successes thus far give cause for optimism. Once the comparative advantage between members is properly exploited to optimise far-reaching growth throughout Asean, the community will ensue.

RCEP negotiations to continue next year

By RUPA DAMODARAN - 22 November 2015 @ 12:13 PM

KUALA LUMPUR: The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) negotiations will continue into next year. In a joint statement today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib said more time is needed to conclude the negotiations.

"Considering the challenges faced and value of constructive engagements, more time is needed to conclude the negotiations," he said. Najib said substantial progress has been achieved in the negotiations between the 10 Asean member states and partners China, India, Japan, Korea and New Zealand. Negotiations commenced in November 2012.

“We leaders agree to allow negotiations to continue and request the negotiators to intensify their efforts to conclude and achieve a mutually beneficial and high quality agreement in 2016,” said Najib, who is also the Asean chairman.

The progress areas include modalities on market access in goods, services and investments. To date 10 rounds of negotiations have been completed in addition to four ministerial level meetings.

Published: Monday November 23, 2015 MYT 12:00:00 AM
Updated: Monday November 23, 2015 MYT 7:50:35 AM

Maturing and moving forward

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s chairmanship of Asean 2015 reached its pinnacle with the successful conclusion of the 27th Asean Summit and Related Summits.

Since assuming the annual chairmanship of Asean beginning Jan 1, 2015 from Myanmar with a vision of creating a “People-Centred Asean” involving all sectors of society, Malaysia’s lead role in the 10-nation grouping was showcased in grand style here as the meetings got underway with the Asean Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) preceding the Heads of State/Government Summit.

With all Asean leaders in attendance, the leaders from Asean’s dialogue partners completed the glittering VVIP list.

The Summits involved the participation of leaders from 18 countries, namely the 10 Asean member states, Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation and the United States. It also involved the participation of United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-moon.

In essence, there were 10 Summits altogether, including the 27th Asean Summit, 18th Asean Plus Three Summit and the 10th East Asia Summit.

More from the Star here.

Published: Monday November 23, 2015 MYT 12:00:00 AM
Updated: Monday November 23, 2015 MYT 7:21:53 AM

All for navigational freedom a must

KUALA LUMPUR: All countries involved in the East Asia Summit, including China, have agreed to uphold the freedom of navigation and overflight at the South China Sea.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak put in perspective that when it comes to freedom of navigation and overflight, all countries agreed that there should not be any interference and that there should be respect.

“China has also come out categorically to say that they are committed to ensure safety and freedom of navigation. So, it’s not just Asean but China wants this, too,” he said.

The East Asia Summit is a forum made up of 18 countries comprising Asean’s 10 member states and their eight dialogue partners – India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Russia and the United States.

On the stand of Asean leaders regarding the issue of South China Sea’s maritime and territorial disputes, Najib said they reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, security and stability.

Equally important, he said, was to enhance mutual trust and confidence and to exercise restraint in the conduct of activities, adding that Asean had agreed to speed up the conclusion of the Code of Conduct.

On land reclamation in the disputed waters, the Prime Minister said that several leaders had raised the matter and expressed concern that such action would change the status quo.

Despite the concern, Najib said that leaders expressed commitment that all countries must make sure that tensions would not rise further.

“We have also agreed that we have to find a modality or a space in international law to resolve this,” he added.

China's PLA sent 2 ships to warn US Navy guided missle Destroyer, USS Lassen

China’s Vice-Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin in a separate press conference said China did not welcome the US’ recent military exercises in the area, describing it as a “political provocation”.

“It is a political provocation and its purpose is to test China’s response,” Liu said.

Liu also slammed those who view the presence of its military base there as an attempt to militarise the South China Sea.

“It is a consistent position of China’s government to firmly oppose militarisation of the South China Sea,” he said.

He justified the construction and the land reclamation in the area, saying it was aimed at improving the working and living conditions of those stationed there.

“It will also create better conditions for China to move on its international obligations to provide more public services to regional countries,” said Liu.

He expressed regret that 42 out of the 100 odd islands were “illegally occupied” by neighbouring countries.

Foreign Control More Good Than Harm, Say Analysts

By Azlina Aziz

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 19 (Bernama) -- Foreign control of utility companies can be good for the industry as well as serve the national interest, say energy analysts and observers.

They noted recent concerns raised by some quarters on the speculated sale of power assets to foreign investors and felt such concerns did not consider the reality of the industry.

A researcher told Bernama, "The energy business is never as free as the operators may want it to be due to strong control mechanism, licensing and multiple regulatory bodies, including the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology and Water and Energy Commission."

For instance, he said, tariffs for the existing Independent Power Producers (IPPs) are fixed under the long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for the life of the PPA, and any revision to these tariffs will require the consent of EC and Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB).

He pointed out that there is also the primary fuel supply for the power plants which must be sourced from government-linked or controlled entities.

Currently, TNB controls coal supply and Petronas supplies gas.

"Gone are the years when a particular IPP could dictate 'take or pay' on TNB. Today TNB, which has total control of the National Grid, calls the shots. TNB will buy what it needs and not whatever IPPs produce," he said.

He stressed that TNB has full control over IPPs, foreign or local, because under the PPA, TNB could step in to take over the operations of a plant in the event of contract breaches.

Asked if foreign companies could use lower cost structure (from economies of scale) to undermine local operators, he said they must first have a huge market share in terms of capacity and fuel usage.

In the case of Edra Global Energy Bhd, which is now up for sale, its effective share of installed generating capacity in Peninsular Malaysia is only 14.6 per cent, significantly behind market giants TNB (50 per cent) and Malakoff Corporation Bhd (25 per cent).

For fuel share in Peninsular Malaysia, Edra utilises around 17 per cent for total gas-fired capacity and approximately 15 per cent effective share of total coal-fired capacity. And it has no hydro plants.

"With such a marginal share, Edra poses little threat on all fronts, especially in view of TNB's dominant and unique market position across all three segments of fuel supply, generation and transmission, its robust financial strength (total assets of more than RM110 billion) and familiarity with the local IPP industry," he said.

He also allayed fears that Malaysians would lose their jobs, saying there is no evidence to suggest that foreign companies would bring in foreign workers to replace Malaysians.

The Malaysia Investment Report by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) states Malaysia had approved investments of up to RM235.9 billion in 2014 which could potentially create about 178,360 job opportunities.

Foreign investments formed 27.4 per cent of the total investments (RM64.6 billion).

It is notable that many countries, including Singapore, Australia, Indonesia and the United Kingdom (UK), permit 100 per cent foreign ownership of power generation plants.

Hong Leong Investment Bank Research's energy analyst Daniel Wong was reported to conclude that even if the assets were sold to foreign companies, TNB would still remain a defensive stock and its role in the transmission of the nation's electricity would not be jeopardised.

Economist Professor Dr Hoo Ke Ping recently said giving the country's energy sector to foreign countries would open the sector to shielded growth.

"Giving the IPPs to foreign control means that we are allowing foreign investment into the country. Without foreign investment, it is not easy for the country to achieve growth," he said.

Stressing that the world is globalising and opening up, Hoo said the country had also been opening up to the global market ever since the government agreed to the Asean Free Trade Area (AFTA) in 1992.

-- BERNAMA

Bekas CEO TEKUN mengaku tidak bersalah

SUWARNI MOKHTAR | 26 November 2015 11:32 AM

KUALA LUMPUR 26 Nov. - Bekas Pengarah Urusan dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Tabung Ekonomi Kumpulan Usaha Niaga (TEKUN) Nasional, Datuk Abdul Rahim Hassan dihadapkan ke Mahkamah Sesyen di sini hari ini atas dua pertuduhan menggunakan jawatannya bagi mendapatkan rasuah.

Abdul Rahim mengaku tidak bersalah atas kedua-dua pertuduhan itu.

Dia didakwa telah menggunakan jawatannya untuk meluluskan dua permohonan pinjaman program perintis TEKUN Nasional bernilai RM100,000 setiap satu kepada Dynamind Enterprise yang menantunya, Khairul Fadly Mahammad adalah pemilik dan anak saudaranya, Khairiyah Khalid merupakan rakan kongsi syarikat itu.

Mahkamah menetapkan ikat jamin sebanyak RM50,000 dengan seorang penjamin dan kes akan disebut semula pada 16 Disember ini. - UTUSAN ONLINE

MACC announced that it has recorded statements from businessman Jho Low, and SRC International Sdn Bhd director Datuk Suboh Md Yassin abroad last Sunday said MACC deputy chief commissioner Datuk Seri Mohd Shukri Abdull.

Two weeks ago, the MACC had also announced that it already recorded a statement from SRC International Sdn Bhd (SRC) managing director Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil and that since MACC is able to reach all these individuals, it did not need the services of PDRM or Interpol to reach them,

"Our system is large and the foreign exchange market is huge. A single transaction so far in our monitoring does not impact the market.

"Only cumulative transactions will affect the market."

• Why can't FT Minister intervene? 

• Was there a deposit paid that FT Minister is reluctant to reimburse? 

KL Mayor Refuses To Meet Keramat Residents Over Apartment Issue

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 2 (Bernama) -- Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will not budge from its decision to build only 274 affordable apartment units in Bukit Keramat which will be offered to Bumiputeras at less than RM200,000.

Stressing his stand on this issue, Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Mhd Amin Nordin Abd Aziz said he would not meet with the residents who were opposing the project.

His firm stand was a reaction to the ultimatum given by the residents who insisted on meeting him and Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor within this week or they would submit a protest note to the prime minister.

"It is DBKL's land, not theirs. But if they want to meet me individually, I can explain to them," he told reporters after attending the signing of a memorandum of understanding between DBKL and Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA), here, today.

Mhd Amin said DBKL could not entertain the demand of the residents that the project must totally comprise affordable homes.

He said DBKL did not have the funds to build affordable homes like the government housing agencies do and it could only bank on joint-ventures with the private sector to ensure that affordable homes were built for city dwellers.

He added that DBKL only provided the land for which the developer would pay RM16 million, on the condition that 50 per cent were affordable apartment units costing below RM200,000.

"Actually, the Real Estate and Housing Developers' Association (REDHA) has discussed with me that the price of less than RM200,000 is not logical and nobody can do it without a subsidy.

"DBKL is not giving the subsidy to the developer. The developer has to build the units at less than RM600,000 to get the subsidy for the units priced below RM200,000," he said.

On the offer by UDA Holdings Berhad to build all of the affordable homes for below RM200,000 on the land, he said this could not be done as the land had been sold to the private developer before UDA submitted its proposal in October.

Yesterday, a coalition of non-governmental organisations and the residents gave an ultimatum to the Federal Territories Minister and KL Mayor to meet with them at the project site to explain the status of the project.

Its chairman Norham Shazali Abdul Hamid said Keramat residents wanted the developer to offer all the 548 apartment units at below RM200,000.

The apartment project is scheduled to begin soon, involving the construction of 274 affordable homes priced at less than RM200,000 and another 274 units at the market price.

-- BERNAMA

Shekh Fadzir brothers without Kadir: Indians or Malays?

Monday, 14 December 2015

Who is the Malay?

by ROSLI DAHLAN and Mohammad AFIF DAUD

The confusion between the constitutional definition and the understanding of the word Malay is because it is used in many contexts.

MOST people understand the term Malay as referring to an ethnic group and therefore look askance at the Federal Constitution as having a racial basis.

We are suggesting that it does not.

The first part of the definition of Malay in Article 160 of the Constitution reads:

“Malay” means a person who professes the religion of Islam, habitually speaks the Malay language, conforms to Malay custom ...

This oft-quoted meaning tends to suggest that:

(1) anyone could by religious conversion and adoption of custom and language belong;

(2) anyone born a Malay is compelled by law to be a Muslim.

There is a second half to the definition that has to be fulfilled before a person can be considered a Malay within the meaning of the Constitution:

and...

(a) was born before Merdeka Day in the Federation or in Singapore or born of parents one of whom was born in the Federation or in Singapore, or is on that day domiciled in the Federation or in Singapore; or

(b) is the issue of such a person;

That someone is a Muslim, speaks Malay and adopts Malay custom is not, without more, sufficient to qualify them as a Malay under the Constitution.

The beneficiaries of the “special position” accorded to the Malays are therefore not a race but a defined class of persons.

Being ethnically Malay has not been any part of the criteria laid down in the Constitution.

The provisions for the special position were enacted to cater to the political demands of a group going by the name “Malay” but impossible to define in any other practical or workable way.

The Constitution had to provide an artificial definition which rendered ascertainable whether a person is or is not a Malay – in the form of the requirement, as at Merdeka Day, of birth, domicile or descent.

The consequence of using a term so charged with ethnic, religious and cultural connotations has been to subsume the constitutional definition under the concept of “Malay Rights” or “Ketuanan Melayu”, which has made debate on the special position of the Malay not only difficult but also polemical.

As a result, the constitutional de­­fi­nition does little to arrest the idea of the Malays as a favoured race.

The confusion between the constitutional definition and the understanding of the word “Malay” as a race is due in no small part to the same term being used in more than one context.

In particular, the constitutional definition, which applies for the purposes of the special position mentioned above, does not apply in the context of Malay reservation land, which is governed by State law.

The definitions of Malay in the various State legislation on Malay reservation have two criteria in common – the Malay language and the religion of Islam.

So far as ethnicity is concerned, it takes the form of a requirement that the person be of “any Malayan race” and, in some States, of “Arab descent”.

The one common factor across the States is the religion of Islam, and there is a general absence of any birth, descent or domicile requirement.

The provision for the special position in the Constitution and the preservation of State laws on Malay reservation are founded upon a so-called “social contract” between the main racial communities in Malaya immediately prior to independen­ce.

If indeed the social contract has been embodied in the Constitution, as the supreme law of the nation, all racial and ethnic considerations prevailing at the time of indepen­dence should be seen as having been fully incorporated in the founding document of Malaysia, and giving full effect to these legal provisions will be the best way to honour that contract.

Just as it is a fundamental principle of the law of contract that no additional terms and conditions can be raised to contradict such terms and conditions as have been agreed in writing, to reopen the discussion on the same issue on race and ethnicity would be to dishonour the concluded bargain.

It will soon be 50 years since the race riots of 1969, after which a policy of affirmative action was put in place and repeatedly extended to this day in favour of the Malays.

Perhaps it is time that the implementation of the policy be reviewed.

Such a review should begin by ensuring that the Malay who are accorded the special position are properly identified.

This would entail going beyond religion, language and custom to ensure that every person accorded the special position does in fact fall within the defined class.

Failure to adhere to the constitutional definition is a direct deprivation of the Malay of their special position and a legal injustice.

For example, a Muslim convert born after Merdeka Day who speaks Malay fluently, conforms to Malay custom and vociferously advocates Malay Rights may discover that he is not himself a Malay within the constitutional definition if he cannot trace his parentage back to Merdeka Day to a Muslim forebear who speaks Malay and conforms to Malay custom.

The child born in Malaysia of Muslim immigrants with no prior roots in Malaysia may become a citizen but will not be a Malay within the constitutional definition.

The special position under the Constitution is implemented by a quota system.

Including such persons in that quota will be a breach of the supreme law of the nation and an injustice to those who are properly entitled.

If such errors are currently being committed, they are building up to a constitutional disaster.

> The above excerpt is from a chapter written by lawyers Rosli Dahlan and Mohammad Afif Daud for ‘Breaking the Silence: Voices of Moderation’ which was launched at the G25 forum, “Islam in a Constitutional Democracy” recently. The views expressed here are entirely the writers’ own.

Someone should champion their plight

Saya nak bagi tahu bahawa saya Najib Razak, sebagai Presiden UMNO, memilih untuk berjiwa besar. Saya memilih untuk jiwa besar untuk membuka pintu serta dendali hati saya untuk menghulurkan  silatulrahim kepada semua supaya kita dapat bersatu dan kembali mengukuhkan ikatan UMNO ini.

Namun, dengan tegas, saya mahu menyatakan jika seandainya mana-mana pihak masih lagi tetap menolak dan mahukan pertelagahan ertinya (faham baik-baik, faham baik-baik) kini bukan lagi soal peribadi, mereka bukan menentang saya sebagai Najib Razak Presiden parti, bahkan sebenarnya ternyata mereka telah tolak untuk mencari titik-titik perdamaian dan menolak keputusan syurah parti atau jemaah UMNO kita ini.


Saudara saudari

Apa guna kita bermusuh, berpatah arah dan berkerat rotan kerana yang menang akan jadi arang, yang kalah akan jadi abu, nanti orang lainlah pula juga yang mendapat untung.

Sebagai kesimpulannya, begitulah realiti kehidupan masa kini, ada pasang ada surut, ada masanya susah ada waktunya gembira. Meminjam falsafah hidup pemikir ulung Nusantara, Hamka, katanya hidup ini pertengahan antara pahit dan manis. Jika selalu saja manis, hati tentu berasa bosan. Kalau selalu pula pahit, jiwa pasti menjadi rawan.

Walau rentong dibakar fitnah, walau bercerai anggota dari badan, walau bercacak panah dan lembing, panji-panji UMNO kita tegakkan juga. Patah sayap bertongkat paruh, Patah bertelekan.

There shall be no retreat no surrender. No retreat no surrender. 

After a scandal-ridden year, the support the Malaysian prime minister received at the recent Umno general assembly proves his position is secure following the resolution of 1MDB’s debt crisis.

Summary

1. The voluminous support Prime Minister Najib Razak enjoyed at the recent United Malays National Organisation (Umno) general assembly proves his position is secure, and we reaffirm our call that Mr Najib will remain in power and contest the 2018 general election.

2. In a sign of the control Mr Najib has over his party, influential former Umno leader and prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamed, his most prominent critic, was forced to speak outside the assembly.

3. The resolution of the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) debt crisis, following the sale of its energy assets to China General Nuclear Power, has played a vital role in cementing Mr Najib’s grip on power.

---

If there were still any doubts that Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak is set to hold onto power following a tumultuous year, then the reception he received at the recently concluded Umno general assembly put those concerns to bed once and for all.

We reaffirm our expectations that Mr Najib will lead Umno and its Barisan Nasional coalition into the next general election, which must be held by August 2018 (Asean Jul 29, Macro).

The words "There will be no retreat! No surrender!, No retreat! No surrender!" kept on ringing in my head until today. It's a strong signal, nay, a stern warning to the detractors and instigators that we will finish our term as ordained by God with the same team that was voted in by the citizens of Malaysia.

Let that time decide on our fate after the rakyat has seriously gauged our performance with intellect not emotions and stacked it against the promise of the opposition coalition, that is in shambles and looks unable to rebound on time to lead this blessed nation after the next elections.

With only two and a half years left on the clock, it is time we employed the George W Bush doctrine of "Either you're with us or against us". No two ways about it.

We have to eliminate the enemies within and move forward as a big, strong and united coalition under one flag. Flag it through!

The president has shown magnanimity. Now it's time to exhibit commanding leadership.

Crash of AirAsia QZ8501: Key findings of investigation report

PUBLISHED DEC 2, 2015, 2:58 PM SGT 234

Problems with a glitch-prone rudder component and the way pilots tried to respond were major factors in the crash of an Indonesian AirAsia jet last year that killed all 162 people on board, investigators said on Tuesday (Dec 1).

Flight QZ8501 crashed into the Java Sea on Dec 28, less than halfway into a two-hour flight from Indonesia's second-biggest city of Surabaya to Singapore.

In their first public report, Indonesian investigators did not pinpoint a single reason why the Airbus A320 disappeared from the radar. But they laid out a sequence involving the faulty component, maintenance and crew actions.

Here's a quick look at the key findings of the report.

1. The soldering on a tiny electronic part in the Rudder Travel Limiter (RTL) was cracked, causing it to send four warning signals to the pilots. The RTL controls the rudder, a part of the aircraft's tail.

2. The crew resolved the issue the first three times, but on the fourth, the pilots tried to reset the system.

3. One or both pilots apparently removed and re-inserted circuit breakers to the flight computers. This led to a power cut and the autopilot was turned off.

4. The rudder turned 2 degrees left, sending the aircraft into a 54-degree roll.

5. With no autopilot, the less experienced co-pilot took over the plane. He appeared "startled" and "disorientated" as the aircraft banked sharply. He kept pulling the nose up until the plane stalled, a state in which it lost lift.

Related Story:Technical faults cited in report on crash of AirAsia flight QZ8501

6. The captain shouted "Pull Down", a command investigators called "confusing" as a clearer order to point the nose lower and stop stalling would be "Push Down" or "Push Forward". The captain did not take back control as a senior pilot seated at the controls is required to do in such an emergency.

7. The plane entered "a prolonged stall condition that was beyond the capability of the flight crew to recover".

8. The plane reached an altitude of 38,000 feet before falling at a maximum speed of 20,000 feet per minute. There were "about five minutes" from the time it stalled to the moment of impact.

9. The cracked soldering in the RTL had malfunctioned 23 times over the previous year. The problem had generated maintenance reports. In the three months prior to the crash, the recorded reports came at increasingly closer intervals.

10. Bad weather did not play a role in the crash.

SOURCES: REUTERS, AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

"The public must be made aware that aviation today is driven by cost. Cost, not safety, is paramount.

"Pilots and Engineers are often placed under increasing pressure to accept second best, in order to ensure aircraft meet unrealistic flight schedules. The consequences of which are more incidents and ultimately more avoidable accidents."

Shukor Yusof, founder of Johor-based aviation consultancy Endau Analytics, said AirAsia Bhd will likely pay more to insurers following the report that alleged the Indonesian subsidiary of the budget carrier did not train its pilots sufficiently nor maintain the aircraft properly.

“Besides higher insurance premium, the airline will need to spend more time and financial resources to train its staff,” he told The Malaysian Reserve (TMR).

The company will need to allocate additional budget to ensure its aircraft are well-maintained and flightready, Shukor said.

“(The allegations in the report) may also deter potential investors as well as impact AirAsia’s talks with new bankers and creditors,” the analyst told TMR.

The market is speculating whether AirAsia’s founders are looking to take the airline private.

The initial public offerings for its Thailand and Philippine affiliates have been delayed due to poor market conditions. But some analysts question whether waiting for a conducive market is the right thing to do.

“The longer they (AirAsia) wait to raise capital, the worse the terms will be for the minority shareholders.

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Sunday, 27 December 2015

Johor Ruler: I’m above politics

by Wong Chun Wai and Nelson Benjamin

Sultan Ibrahim posing for a wefie with members of the public.

JOHOR BARU: Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar has made it clear that he is above politics and does not favour any politician.

He also feels that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak should be given a chance as every Malaysian prime minister had also made mistakes in the past.

During an hour-long exclusive interview to wrap up the year, the Johor Ruler spoke emotionally on an array of issues, including his late son Tunku Laksamana Tunku Abdul Jalil, as well as his relations with the Prime Minister and former deputy prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

He also spoke on the dangers of vaping and why it had to be banned immediately, describing it as a “technology drug” which was threatening the society.

The Sultan also touched on religious issues, including the huge budget for the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim).

The Star: Tuanku, we wish to express our condolences on the recent demise of His Highness Tunku Laksamana Tunku Abdul Jalil. How has the family coped with the event of the past weeks, if we may ask?

Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar: This has been a roller-coaster year for the family and me. The high points have been the coronation in March this year when I became the state’s fifth Sultan in the history of modern Johor. The last time a coronation ceremony took place was 55 years ago.

I also conferred the new title of Permaisuri Johor on my consort Raja Zarith Sofiah Sultan Idris Shah at the coronation ceremony, which was another historic occasion.

In October last year, my eldest son, the Tunku Mahkota of Johor Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim ended his bachelorhood when he married Che’ Puan Khaleeda Bustamam.

But all these events took place against the backdrop of the difficulties the family was going through as we joined Tunku Jalil in his fight against his illness.

He was diagnosed while he was on a holiday with us in the United Kingdom in August last year. He was truly a fighter and a man of steel. While it was painful for him during the medical treatment, it was equally painful for us.

We are, after all, ordinary human beings too. I am a father like other parents in Johor. It crushed my heart each time I saw my son suffer, especially when I knew that he was dying. I had to be strong for him until the end.

But as my wife penned in a heartfelt letter which she has shared with Malaysians, sometimes things don’t go as we plan. No matter how painful, one needs to accept reality with an open heart.

(Tunku Abdul Jalil passed away on Dec 5. He had been diagnosed with stage-four liver cancer.)

I have kept all the text messages that he had sent to me. These are precious memories, which are very important to my family and me.

But we must accept fate and destiny. Allah has His reasons. I wish to take this opportunity to thank Malaysians, especially Johoreans, from all walks of life, races and religions who opened up their hearts in pouring out their support for my son.

I truly wish to thank them from the bottom of my heart. I am deeply touched.

Even until this day, there are people still visiting the royal mausoleum to pay their last respects.

On the ban of vaping

Q: Tuanku, on the subject of health, Your Royal Highness has ordered the ban on the sale of all vaping products in the state. What prompted Your Royal Highness to be so decisive?

A: I did my research and this is not our custom. Neither is shisha. I was shocked and disgusted when I saw women in headscarves and even children puffing away.

I realised that this was the beginning of a disaster and had to put my foot down as soon as possible. To me, this is a technology drug that will be harmful. Unlike drugs, this is difficult to detect.

I was fed up of the various authorities at both the state and federal levels, which could not decide on what to do. They were dragging their feet and some politicians were making silly remarks such as vaping should not be banned because a million votes would be lost and bumiputra interest would be affected.

I know what is good and I am firm that all this has to stop beginning Jan 1 next year. So far, all those opposing are doing it from a business stand. Do you not care about people’s health?

There are also those who oppose, including a “comedian in red” who has jumped into the issue to give their comments.

(Right-wing activist Abdul Rani Kulup Abdullah or Kipidap is a quirky character who is often seen wearing a red beret, and has made headlines for lodging more than 1,000 police reports against opposition politicians and NGO leaders.

He recently joined other Malay-based NGOs to say that Barisan Nasional risks losing a million votes in the next general election if the authorities continue the crackdown on e-cigarettes and vaporisers.)

It is purely a health issue and some mindless politicians are talking about politics and race, it’s incredible.

The media, including The Star, has been highlighting how even primary schoolchildren were spending their pocket money on vape products.

What I feared has taken place. The police have now arrested people who sold “ganja vape”. What is more worrying is that the syndicate has been in operation since August and has catered to its clientele via the Internet and sent their products via courier.

This is underground business. What would be the effects if Johor allows open sales in shopping malls, shoplots and pasar malam?

I can show the many e-mails and letters I have received from all over Malaysia, especially from parents, expressing their support for Johor’s decision to lead.

Now other states are also following suit and even the National Fatwa Council has declared vaping as haram.

To me, education and health should not be politicised.

Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar The Ruler dining at a restaurant in Muar, Johor. He later paid for his own food and also paid for all customers who ate at the restaurant that day.

On the strong remarks by Tunku Mahkota of Johor on social media

Q: Tuanku, this has also been a year when Johor found itself in the spotlight. The Tunku Mahkota of Johor has made strong statements on issues affecting the leadership and the country.

A: Yes, the TMJ has spoken up on the need to be transparent, accountable and credible but it was never directed at anyone.

He has his points. Whoever consumes chilli will surely rasa pedas (feel the heat). I do not argue with the TMJ about his comments as I do ask him about them and once he explains, I am fine with it.

But I always advise him not to hurt anyone. Based on his success in football, I think he has changed the face of football in the country. Not many people are happy with his success. His comments and hints seem to get support from the people. I go through Facebook and see the comments.

On the role of a Ruler and his authority

Q: Would that lead to the perception by some politicians that Tuanku has gone beyond your authority?

A: I am not a puppet in Johor. I have the right to call my mentri besar to tegur (advise) him at any time and others in my government as well. I am the one who appoints the state government. I have always put my rakyat’s interest first.

Let me give a history lesson here as it was my great-grandfather, the late Sultan Ibrahim, who gave money to start Umno and the first meeting was actually held at the palace in Johor.

Subsequently, his son, the late Sultan Ismail, as the regent of Johor at the time, inaugurated the Malay Congress on May 11, 1946 at Istana Besar in Johor Baru that led to the setting up of Umno.

Let me remind politicians who do not know history or are too lazy to read history books – Umno was born in the Johor palace grounds.

Where Umno is today began at the very palace grounds we are sitting on now. That’s the party history.

Sultan Ismail’s role was also recognised during a large parade held on June 8, 1946 to celebrate Britain’s success in regaining Malaya after Japan’s surrender.

That’s how the palace has taken up its responsibilities at crucial points of the nation’s history.

On Rulers as the custodians of Islam and Jakim

Q: Can Tuanku talk about the role of the Rulers as the custodians of Islam, given recent debate that some federal religious agencies appear to exert influence and authority onto this religious space?

A: We are the heads of religion in our own states. The Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) can give advice or propose guidelines but it is up to us (Sultans) whether we want to accept it.

I have appointed a panel in the Johor Islamic Council. They come up with fatwas (decrees) for me to approve it. The fatwa cannot be effective without my approval. Sometimes I do question a fatwa and I want them to explain it, but Jakim has no right to interfere in the state.

Do you know that Islamic schools started in Johor before they were introduced to other states? We never had sekolah pondok but instead organised religious schools. Others are actually using our syllabus too.

Jakim reports to the Conference of Rulers and they usually advise the Federal Government.

I am curious to know – if it is true – why do they need a RM1bil budget? Does it include allocations to all the states? During my next Conference of Rulers, I want them to show me their breakdown for expenses. I want to know if they are financing our religious schools here.

On the Johor palace, the Prime Minister and ex-deputy prime minister

Q: Your Royal Highness, forgive us for asking this sensitive and delicate question, given the fact that Johor is now a political hotbed. The Johor palace statement, whether official or casually made on social media, has given the impression that you are critical of the Prime Minister or even not in favour of him.

A: No, I do not favour anyone. I never said I do not favour the Prime Minister. He is the Prime Minister whether you like it or not.

I must say that every prime minister has made his mistakes. To me, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin is my former mentri besar and former deputy prime minister. He comes to see me via appointments. I allow this but I try to avoid talking about politics. He came to see me twice.

He does express his unhappiness. I listen and keep it to myself. I have also met up with the Prime Minister and avoid speaking to him about politics. Let the politician handle politics. I am above politics. If he (Prime Minister) needs advice, I am here as a friend.

The issue of whether you are from Johor does not arise.

Yes, I am outspoken. I speak my mind and I am happy that the message gets across.

The palace grants audiences to many leaders but it does not mean that after these visits, we are meant to endorse their leadership.

They are politicians but please do not abuse or misuse the good name of the palace. I am very proud of being a Johorean but that does not mean I must blindly support anyone from Johor. The people should also not make such deductions.

The Prime Minister is from Pahang, but he has also regularly updated me on development issues affecting the state. There are official visits by him which are widely reported in the press, but we also have quiet, informal meetings.

He is deeply concerned about issues affecting Johor because of our proximity to Singapore, which is a strategic partner to Johor. Both of us believe that Johor and Malaysia will benefit from the ongoing development and when the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore fast train is built, the benefits will be enormous.

I do not want to dig up the past nor do I wish to take a swipe at any politician, active or retired, but the Prime Minister understands and appreciates the need to work closely and not to repeat the past.

I find it hard to understand the rationale or irrationality of any Malaysian leader who wants Malay­sia to quarrel with Singapore. It’s what I called crooked thinking.

There is so much we can learn from Singapore. They have done well, let’s be honest here. We don’t have to go on expensive study trips to Europe or the United States – just go across the Causeway to Singapore, they have done so many things that are correct and efficient.

I know the Prime Minister has come under much criticism but I say give him a chance. The year has come to an end, we must move on. It has been a challenging year for everyone, including myself. There are issues that still need to be tackled, that need to convince the people, that need answers, but I must say that they also need closure.

Every one of us makes mistakes but we must be prepared to learn from them, make amends and do what is right. Right what is wrong.

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Monday, 28 December 2015

Sultan Ibrahim: I have a vision for Johor

JOHOR BARU: Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar has a vision to transform the state capital into a boutique city and financial hub.

He said he wants to personally attract investors to the state, not only from China but the Middle East to start projects in Johor.

"My strategy now will be to market and get investors to build. I also want to bring investors to the islands off Johor. I have a vision for Johor," he said in an exclusive interview with The Star.

Q: On the subject of development in the state, what are your hopes and what should be focused on?

A: The government must give incentives to developers to spur development. My advice to the state and federal governments is, be consistent to attract long-term investors. You should not have a policy during good times and another during the bad. Do not make policies without engaging the public or deve­loper associations.

I know there is a slowdown now. Banks should be more relaxed towards developers and banks should also grant loans to people to buy homes. Unfortunately, banks are not doing much to help developers.

The shape of things to come: Sultan Ibrahim viewing a replica model of Coronation Square after launching the IIBD and Coronation Square at the Persada International Convention Centre in Johor Baru. — Bernama

Whatever you say about a slowdown in Johor, there is still a market and the huge Forest City project, which was launched recently, for example, has started selling.

I also just launched Coronation Square and the Ibrahim International Business District (IIBD). These are exciting projects, as the IIBD will enable Johor Baru to achieve world city status and metropolis status soon.

These projects, spearheaded by the Johor Corporation, cover about 100ha of prime real estate in the city.

Of this zone, about 2.53ha will be turned into Coronation Square, which will comprise medical suites, blocks of serviced apartments, an office tower and a hotel.

I expect this strategic development to change the face of Johor, including a major increase in population.

I am sure there will be huge multiplier effects as ordinary Johoreans will be able to enjoy the spillover effects, especially for small businesses in the retail and food and beverage sectors. Surely, hundreds of thousands of new jobs will also be created.

I want Johor Baru to emerge as a boutique city and financial hub in the future.

I will be travelling soon after my mourning period and will start bringing in investors directly into Johor – not just the Chinese but also investors from the Middle East.

Bustling capital: New development projects are in the pipeline to transform Johor Baru into a boutique city and financial hub. Bustling capital: New development projects are in the pipeline to transform Johor Baru into a boutique city and financial hub.

During my next Kembara Mahkota, I will bring investors to all my other districts, including Muar. My strategy now will be to market and get investors to build. I also want to bring investors to the islands off Johor.

That is why incentives are important to lure investors. I have a vision for Johor.

Q: Tuanku, recently the name of the state administration capital Nusajaya was changed to Iskandar Puteri, while Kulaijaya was changed back to Kulai and Ledang to Tangkak. Any reasons for the sudden name changes?

A: What was Kulai’s original name? Why add Jaya to the back of these names (Kulaijaya and Nusajaya)? I discussed with my Mentri Besar and my Council of Royal Court and there is no such thing as Nusajaya.

The first name given to Johor Baru in those days was Iskandar Puteri, but the late Sultan Abu Bakar replaced it with Johor Baru in 1866. Iskandar Puteri is full of history and suitable to replace Nusajaya. That is why I want the original names back, including Tangkak.

Also, the changes in name were made without consulting my late father or me. Why were we not consulted? Even when they wanted to house the government buildings in Iskandar Puteri (Nusajaya), we were not consulted.

I remember my late father asking the previous Mentri Besar about the area and he only said they were constructing additional buildings because Johor Baru was too congested. Now, government buildings are housed in a noisy area opposite a firing range in Singapore.

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Monday, 28 December 2015

Johor Ruler: Single stream education system the way to improve language skills

by Wong Chun Wai and Nelson Benjamin

JOHOR BARU: The level of English among the people is deteriorating and something needs to be done to stop the rot. That is the opinion of Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar.

The Sultan has always felt the need to have a single stream education system instead of the present three types of schools – national, Chinese and Tamil.

In this second part of an exclusive interview with The Star, the Ruler speaks on a range of issues, including development projects in the state and economic assistance for developers and house buyers.

He also speaks about his vision for the state, the reasons for the recent changes in names of districts in the state and his hopes for 2016.

Q: Tuanku, the level of English is deteriorating and Malaysia is fast becoming a country where the young are unable to converse in proper English while members of the older generation ar better at the language as they attended English schools. In most other countries, the trend is the opposite. What are your comments?

A: Yes, I agree. If you realise, most government officers nowadays are unable to speak or write good English. That is why I am not in favour of the present three types of schools (National, Chinese and Tamil).

Nowadays, there are Chinese and Tamil students who do not know how to speak Malay and of course, Malay students who can’t speak English.

In those days, English schools were regarded as “neutral ground”. All races attended these schools. During my time, it was a must to know both Malay and English.

But now, when you teach Mathematics, Geography and History in Malay in schools, students are at a loss when they have to read books in English in universities. How can you be a scientist when your English is so bad?

That is why I speak to my children and wife both in English and Malay at home but converse in Malay when I meet my rakyat. The previous generation spoke English beautifully.

Yes, English is in danger of becoming the language of the older people while the young cannot speak English proficiently. In countries such as France, Spain and China, young people are speaking English.

It is the reverse in Malaysia. I am alarmed. So, how can we improve the situation?

No one should politicise education and health issues. I am worried for the education standards in this country. Please wake up! 

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Monday, 28 December 2015

A home for every Johorean

A place to call home: Visitors admiring a model of the Projek Sentuhan Kasih Felda housing scheme at Felda Tenggaroh 3 in Mersing, Johor.

The Star: Finally, Your Royal High­ness, what are your wishes for 2016?

Sultan Ibrahim: I hope my state government’s finances do not go back into the red. I congratulate my Mentri Besar (Datuk Mohamed Khaled Nordin) for ensuring that Johor was able to amass a huge surplus during my rule in the last five years. He is a fast learner.

I always tell him to run the state like he is running a company. He must not only be a good businessman but also have the discipline of a soldier when administering Johor.

But during an economic slowdown, we have to be fighters. That is why we need more attractive incentives and stimuli to lure investors.

We must also concentrate on building more affordable homes to bring back all the communities, including the Malays, Chinese and Indians, into our town.

I also want all civil servants to own homes in our town areas.

I also want to remind developers not to set their selling prices too high, which will result in people not being able to buy homes.

With the Ibrahim International Business District (IIBD), we will become a financial hub and there will be no need to open hazardous factories.

My wish is for the government to have a relook at all the heavy industries in Pasir Gudang. Find out which industries consume too much water resulting in my rakyat facing water shortages in some areas.

We also need to look at our dangerous industries as I have been told that if a certain factory leaks, it will pose a threat to people living within a 25km radius.

So, it is time to look for the government to reconsider these dangers as Johor is not a dumping ground.

My people’s safety and health is my paramount priority.

I do not want a chemical disaster like the one in Bhopal, India, which claimed thousands of lives in the past.

I also want to start the Sultan Ibrahim Foundation to construct affordable houses for my people. A working paper is being drawn up and our main aim is not to make money.

That means whatever the cost we use to build, that is the same price we will sell it at to the people.

This foundation is aimed at looking after Bangsa Johor as I want each Johorean to own a home. I am very concerned about the problems faced by the people due to rising costs of living.

I hope our politicians will devote their time and energy to deal with the bread and butter issues.

The rakyat is having a difficult time coping with the increasing cost of food, transport and other essential items.

My advice to the politicians, especially those from Johor, is to be sensitive to the needs of the people. Please do not waste time creating news headlines for the wrong reasons. Stop racist and religious rhetoric and work for the people.

For sure, I hope the politicians will not sow distrust and suspicions among the people by using such sensitive issues to fan uneasiness and tension. We must remain united to face the economic and political challenges.

I do not want politicians to use race or religion to exploit the sentiments of the people to cover their incompetence.

Let me warn them that if any of these politicians are from Johor, whether in government or opposition, I will personally summon them to give a piece of my mind.

I want the people of Johor to remain united and not to let anyone split them. The people of Johor must place priority on stability and unity.

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"The year has come to an end, we must move on. It has been a challenging year for everyone, including myself. There are issues that still need to be tackled, that need to convince the people, that need answers, but I must say that they also need closure.

Every one of us makes mistakes but we must be prepared to learn from them, make amends and do what is right. Right what is wrong."

MAS pilot praised for questioning Auckland-KL flight plan change

BY ALIZA SHAH - 27 DECEMBER 2015 @ 11:29 AM

KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian Airlines (MAS) pilot on a Kuala-Lumpur-bound flight from Auckland was praised for being vigilant after he queried New Zealand air traffic controllers for directing his plane on a track towards Melbourne.

The New Zealand Herald reported that the Airbus A330, departed from Auckland on Christmas Day, and was said to have been directed further south than usual for a flight to Kuala Lumpur.

Airways, the body that manages New Zealand airspace, said it was investigating the incident.

It said the pilot queried air traffic controllers eight minutes into flight why the plane did not take a more direct route to Kuala Lumpur.

Airways said the pilot was informed that flight plan was submitted by MAS, and he then proceeded on his flight.

The agency confirmed that it was investigating the matter, and that passengers were not in any danger.

A New Zealand aviation commentator, Peter Clark said the pilot did a very good job for noticing the difference in flight plan.

“The pilot has done a very good job by noticing it, querying it and not just blindly flying off and ending up in the Southern Ocean,” he said adding that he hoped that Malaysia Airlines would ask for an explanation and investigate the matter.

Clark said flight on the route would normally travel around the bottom of Australia to avoid bad weather or head-winds.

Meanwhile, WeatherWatch head analyst Philip Duncan said he flew out of Auckland this week said the weather between New Zealand and Kuala Lumpur was “fairly calm”, however added that thunderstorms across northern Australia and Papua New Guinea may have influenced Malaysia Airlines' preferred route.

The diagram on top of page from Aviation Herald and its report on this incident is the key to understanding what happened, and makes the media reports that continued to be posted in their original, inaccurate, and frankly ridiculous forms on the internet an embarrassment to those that care about accurate journalism.

What we know is that because of adverse forecast headwinds forecast for cruising altitudes over the tropical north of Australia flight planning at Malaysia Airlines chose to use an often used but more southerly track across the great southern land to get to KL.

There seems to have been an earlier flight plan using the more frequently used northerly route.

On departure from Auckland MH132 was given instructions by the tower to take them away from the normal traffic that it has to manage for multiple arrivals and departures prior to picking up its filed flight plan.  Such instructions by busy airport towers are about getting a flight away from an airport, influenced not just by traffic but the prevailing winds on the airfield and the runway being used.

Eight minutes seems like a perfectly reasonable period of time in which to achieve this, whereupon the pilots of MH132 were clearly surprised by being given a heading which wasn’t what they expected from their filed flight plan.

What is unclear is whether or not the pilots had studied the latest and correct plan, or an outdated plan. The Aviation Herald report infers that they had expected to fly the northerly route, while the tower directed them on a heading consistent with the newer more southerly route, which was then flown to KL once that confusion was resolved.

Malaysia came under scrutiny after it denied entry visas to two Israel athletes, which resulted in their withdrawal from competing in the ISAF Youth Sailing Championship being held in Langkawi from December 27 to January 3.

Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin said that little could be done to help the Israelis as Putrajaya had to abide its diplomatic policy.

Following the outrage, Perak DAP's Economic Development Bureau, Chong Zhemin, spoke out and accused Khairy of allowing politics and personal sentiments getting in the way of the international sports event.

Chong also said that it was very unsporting to deny visas for any athletes based on their nationality, religion or personal belief.

"Moreover, both athletes are the defending champions and to deny visa for their entry is to deny their right to defend their titles. This is unacceptable in any sporting event," he said. (Malaysia Digest, 28 December 2015)

“We accept the decision by the Israeli Youth Team to withdraw from participating in ISAF YWC 2015. As this is a diplomatic issue, we are guided by the existing policy of the Malaysian Government.”

According to the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) Assistant Secretary Datuk Sieh Kok Chi, the conditions set for two Israeli sailors is a normal practice. It was the practise and other Israeli sportsmen have accepted in the past. In 1997 the Israeli cricket team had competed in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Trophy, while Israeli nationals, coach Avram Grant and Ben Haim were part of the Chelsea pre-tour squad in 2008 as well as player Yossi Benayoun who was in the team that came for a friendly with Harimau Malaya in 2011. (Bernama December 28th 2015)